Dynamic response of precast segmental bridge columns under heavy truck impact

Considering the wide application of precast segmental bridge columns (PSBCs) in engineering practice, impact-resistant performance has gained significant attention. However, few studies have focused on PSBCs subjected to high-energy impacts caused by heavy truck collisions. Therefore, the behavior of PSBCs under a heavy truck impact was investigated in this study using high-fidelity finite element (FE) models. The detailed FE modeling methods of the PSBCs and heavy trucks were validated against experimental tests. The validated modeling methods were employed to simulate collisions between PSBCs and heavy trucks. The simulation results demonstrated that the engine and cargo caused two major peak impact forces during collision. Subsequently, the impact force, failure mode, displacement, and internal force of the PSBCs under heavy truck impacts were scrutinized. An extensive study was performed to assess the influence of the section size, truck weight, impact velocity, and number of precast segments on the impact responses. The truck weight was found to have a minor effect on the engine impact force. Damage was found to be localized at the bottom of the three segments, with the top remaining primarily undamaged. This parametric study demonstrated that larger cross-sections may be a preferred option to protect PSBCs against the impact of heavy trucks.