> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.openbrim.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.openbrim.org/templates/steel-i-girder-bridge-workflow/construction-sig/substructure-construction-sig/pier-cap-bent-construction-complete-sig.md).

# Pier Cap/Bent Construction (Complete) \[SIG]

## Pier Cap Construction

If a pier cap is to be partially constructed and the user aims to check for the creep and shrinkage effects of each deck pour, they can use the pier cap/bent (partial) construction section.

**Stage:** Choose the stage for constructing the pier or bents. Usually, the construction of pier caps, piers, footings, and piles is completed within a single stage.

**Pier Caps/Bents:** Choose the pier caps or bents for construction.

**Self-Weight Factor**: The Self-Weight Factor is a parameter used to adjust the contribution of an object's own weight in structural analysis. This factor is particularly useful in simulations, as it enables the scaling or modification of the self-weight during finite element analysis (FEA).

**Pier Cap Construction Method \[Weight Only/Stiffness Only/Weight And Stiffness]:** Controls how the pier cap/bent contributes to the structure state created by this construction stage. Select **Weight Only** to apply the self-weight (scaled by the Self-Weight Factor) without adding the pier cap's stiffness to the model — useful when the element carries load but is not yet structurally engaged. Select **Stiffness Only** to activate the pier cap's stiffness without applying its self-weight, for instance when the weight has already been accounted for in an earlier stage. Select **Weight And Stiffness** (default) to apply both the scaled self-weight and the stiffness, which is the typical choice for a fully constructed pier cap.


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