COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS FOR THE CALCULATION OF A BRIDGE PIER USING THE TRADITIONAL METHOD AND SAP2000 SOFTWARE

Abstract

This article provides a detailed comparative analysis of the piers of a bridge using the finite element software SAP2000 and the traditional structural analysis method of load and resistance factor design by AASHTO LRFD 2017 (8th edition). The main objective is to evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of SAP2000 compared to traditional approaches, providing a comprehensive overview of the advantages and limitations of each method in terms of modeling, simulation, and obtained results. The methodology includes modeling the bridge piers in SAP2000, specifying the geometry, material properties, boundary conditions, and applied loads. Simultaneously, the structural analysis of the piers is performed using traditional methods, detailing the procedures, simplifications, and assumptions involved. The results obtained from both methods are thoroughly compared based on key parameters such as stresses, deformations, and structural strength.

Keywords: Bridge pile, finite elements, SAP2000, traditional method.