Integral Abutments

Precast Concrete Integral Abutments

Standard abutment construction has the potential to be a long process, so prefabrication provides an excellent opportunity to reduce the overall construction time of a bridge project. In this application, the structure of the abutment is made integral with the elements of the superstructure.

The advantages of the integral abutment include a reduction in bridge deck joints (a common area of deterioration in bridges) and the forces of the soil are transferred into the bridge superstructure, reducing the need for spread footings or multiple rows of piles.

These types of abutments can be separated into two categories: fully-integral abutments and semi-integral abutments. Fully-integral abutments are more common and involve the connection between the abutment and the superstructure being a full moment connection.

Diagram of Precast Concrete Abutment Stem with Steel Superstructure

Diagram of Precast Concrete Abutment Stem with Steel Superstructure

The connection between the semi-integral abutment structure and the bridge superstructure are pinned connections that allow for rotation at the ends of the superstructure.

Precast Concrete Abutment Stem

Precast Concrete Abutment Stem

The connection between the abutment stem and steel piles can be accomplished using anchored steel plates that can be field welded or embedding the piles in large pockets to later be grouted or sealed with concrete. To connect to concrete piles, drilling and grouting for reinforcing bars. Similar to the steel piles, pockets and grouting can be used to connect the stems with concrete piles. To connect the adjacent stems, post-tensioning or small closure pours can be used.

Prefabricating an integral abutment can save a noticeable amount of time in a bridge construction. Using these integral abutments, deck joints can be eliminated preventing problem areas for deterioration. This system can also reduce the need for a spread footing or multiple rows of piles.

Related Resources: Substructures & Foundations

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