September 20, 2012

This webinar is the second in a two–part series to feature the HfL Precast Bent System for Use in High Seismic Regions. The first webinar aired on August 18, 2011 and may be found at http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/hfl/innovations/webinars.cfm.

The Highways for LIFE Precast Bent System for Use in High Seismic Regions Project comprises a precast bent or pier system that can be used in high seismic regions to connect Prefabricated Bridge Elements and Systems (PBES) and deliver the seismic performance that is expected and required of modern bridges. The bent system is intended for use with precast, prestressed girder bridges and uses precast column and cap beam (crossbeam) elements that are joined into an integral unit using newly developed connection details. These details have been developed to ensure that the seismic performance is adequate and that the service performance of the bridge is also adequate. A demonstration project was recently completed for this system and is in service today.

This webinar will provide a brief overview of the bent system concept, the laboratory proof testing and the demonstration project construction. This overview will be followed by a detailed description of the seismic design process for this system. Design examples have been developed for both spread footing and drilled shaft foundation versions of the bent system, and both will be covered in this session. Additionally, descriptions of the construction details used with the bent system will be featured to provide the participant with relevant information for use of the concept.

Moderator: Derrell Manceaux, Senior Structural Engineer, FWHA Resource Center

Lee Marsh, Principal, BergerABAM, Federal Way, WA

Bijan Khaleghi, State Bridge Design Engineer, Washington State Department of Transportation, Olympia, WA