Experimental Evaluation of Seismic Performance of Pile-to-Deck Connections: A Case Study of Common Pile Caps in Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Qom, Qom, Iran

10.22091/cer.2025.12047.1592

Abstract

This study investigates the seismic behavior and experimental analysis of two common types of pile caps used in infrastructure projects for port construction in Iran. The objective of this research is to evaluate the mechanical and energy performance of these pile caps under cyclic loading, particularly in the pile-to-deck connection regions. Two pile cap samples, namely PRC and PEST, were subjected to bending and shear loads in laboratory conditions. The results revealed that the PRC sample experienced reinforcement yielding and concrete cover cracking under similar loading conditions, whereas the PEST sample failed primarily at the welding joint between the pile and deck bolt connection. Additionally, compared to the PRC sample, the PEST sample exhibited higher stiffness, attributed to the use of steel pipes and grout in its construction. On the other hand, the energy absorption capacity and hysteretic damping in the PRC sample were higher, especially at higher drifts, than in the PEST sample. These findings have direct implications for the design and performance of port structures under seismic loads. The results of this study can contribute to improving the design of pile-to-deck connections and enhancing the performance of structures against seismic forces.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Send comment about this article
CAPTCHA Image
Civil Infrastructure Researches

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 20 July 2025

Files

Share

How to cite

Statistics