Substructure Construction [EX1-STG]

The OpenBrIM platform offers several features to support the bridge substructure construction process. These include the ability to model soil-structure interaction using nonlinear springs, step-by-step construction of the pile, pile cap, pier, and pier cap, and time-dependent staged construction analysis using CEB FIB 1990 to compute creep and shrinkage effects.

The construction of substructure involves several stages, including foundation excavation, reinforcement placement, formwork assembly, concrete pouring, and curing. The foundation excavation involves digging a hole in the ground to the required depth and width, which is then filled with concrete or other materials to create a solid base for the pier.

Once the foundation is in place, the reinforcing steel bars are placed inside the formwork, which is a temporary structure that holds the concrete in place during pouring. The formwork is typically made of wood, steel, or aluminum and can be reused for multiple pier constructions. The steel bars are arranged according to the design specifications to provide the required strength and stability for the pier.

Next, the concrete is poured into the formwork, and the mixture is compacted using a vibrator to remove any air pockets and ensure proper bonding of the steel reinforcement and concrete. After the concrete has been poured, it needs to be cured to achieve its full strength. This typically involves keeping the concrete moist and at a certain temperature for a specified period of time, usually several days to a week or more.

Once the piers are completed, the pier caps can be constructed on top of them. Pier caps are horizontal structures that connect the piers and support the bridge deck. They can be made of precast or cast-in-place concrete and are typically designed to match the contour of the bridge deck. The construction of pier caps involves similar stages as piers, including formwork assembly, steel reinforcement placement, concrete pouring, and curing.

The formwork for pier caps is usually smaller and simpler than that for piers, and the steel reinforcement is arranged in a way that provides the required strength and stiffness for the cap. Once the concrete has been poured, it is cured in a similar manner as for piers. After the pier caps are completed, the bridge girders can be erected on top of them to support the bridge deck.