Connections boulonnées des éléments préfabriqués des piles de ponts

Abstract

In the context of Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC), the connection between precast columns and their foundations constitutes the critical point governing the structural safety of the structure, particularly during construction phases. This thesis investigates the feasibility of a bolted connection between concrete-encased steel (CES) composite columns and the foundation, when the internal steel section alone must resist the applied loads prior to concrete casting. Three bridge configurations are analyzed using CSI Bridge : a major bridge in Montreal, a lifeline bridge in Vancouver, and a lifeline bridge in Montreal. The bolted connection is first designed based on the maximum capacities of the I-section at the ultimate limit state, in accordance with the CSA S6-25 standard. The results of the numerical simulations, validated by analytical calculations, then provide the stresses and displacements of the bridge piers at each construction phase, allowing the stability of the system to be assessed under the effect of permanent loads and wind loads. The results reveal that the placement of the girders and diaphragms constitutes the most critical stage : the stresses at the connection exceed the allowable limit for both Montreal bridges. The addition of a temporary diagonal bracing member significantly reduces these stresses and restores structural compliance. The study demonstrates that the weak-axis flexural stiffness of the I-section, rather than the column diameter, is the governing parameter during the construction phase. The feasibility of the proposed bolted connection is thus confirmed for the three bridges studied, demonstrating the relevance of this solution within an accelerated construction framework.

Date	9 Aug 2026
Original language	French
Awarding Institution	École de technologie supérieure
Supervisor	Munzer Hassan (Supervisor)