Effects of superstructures on seismic behavior of steel bridge frame piers with circular columns

In order to grasp effects of superstructures on seismic behavior of existing steel bridge frame piers, frequency analysis and elasto-plastic FEM earthquake response analysis by considering superstructures in the FEM models were carried out. Based on the author' previous research, a 2-story type frame pier was used as object frame piers. As a result, effects of superstructures on seismic behavior in the longitudinal direction of the 2-story frame pier were beneficial. However, their effects on the seismic behavior in the transverse direction are not so significant. Thus, seismic performance of existing frame piers can be applicably evaluated by seismic performance evaluation in the transverse direction.