Evaluation of Seismic Retrofit Efficiency of Triaxial Isolator for Existing Bridges

Abstract

In recent years, modern protective systems have been introduced to reduce the vulnerability of bridges to seismic events. These protective systems include base isolation devices of different types, damping devices and active control devices. The objective of this study is to analytically evaluate the efficiency of a seismic retrofit scheme using sliding base isolation systems. In this study, a triaxial model was used that is capable of accurately developing the behavior of sliding isolators including the influence of the changing vertical force and velocity on the friction coefficients. The results of the analysis can be used as a guide for the selection of optimal retrofit strategies for existing bridges.