Abstract

In this paper, the experimental approach was conducted to validate the result of numerical approach. The integral concrete box-girder bridge was modelled by using finite element method (FEM) program and comparing by using dynamic shaking table. There are four steps that were involved in validating the result: (1) scaling integral concrete box-girder bridge by implementing Buckingham PI theorem; (2) setting the shaking table, shaker controller, strain gauge, load varied displacement transducer (LVDT) and accelerometer; (3) analyzing finite element modelling of scaled integral concrete box-girder bridge; (4) comparing the acceleration of structure response from accelerometer and finite element modelling. The results show that the percentage of difference of experimental test and finite element analysis is only 11% for structure acceleration and 18% for structure displacement. It was found that the experimental test result had proved that the finite element analysis as a numerical approximate method can demonstrate significant actual bridge response under earthquake loading. 

Key words: Dynamic shaking table, finite element program, acceleration, displacement, strain.