Abstract:To study the sensitivity of the pier-height parameters of curved bridges to the seismic response, we used Midas Civil finite-element-analysis software to establish two finite-element-analysis models for high and middle-range piers. We then used the Newmark-β method to perform a dynamic time history analysis of a curved bridge structure with a multi-degrees-of-freedom system. Combined with the basic input of the seismic excitation of a curved bridge structure, we calculated the changes in the basic period, displacement at the top of the pier, and the internal forces of the main beam and pier bottom of a two-span continuous bridge under two different pier-height arrangements. Based on our calculation results, we discuss the influences of the pier height and pier-height ratio on the seismic response of the curved bridge structure. The results show that under the same conditions, the overall stiffness of bridge II is less than that of bridge I, and the sensitivities of the radial displacements at the top of each pier to the pier height and pier-height ratio differ. We found the internal force of a high pier to be closely related to the type of bridge pier arrangement. These results can be used to guide the seismic analysis and design of curved bridge structures in mountainous areas.