This study presents an experimental investigation on the dynamic and seismic behavior of a reduced-scale steel bridge pier model tested on a shaking table. The model response is first characterized under random white-noise excitations using accelerometers, and the fundamental frequencies are identified through frequency-domain analysis of the measured accelerations. The corresponding damping ratio is evaluated by the half-power bandwidth and the logarithmic decrement methods. The experimentally identified frequencies are then compared with those obtained from a finite element model to assess the consistency and reliability of the numerical simulation. Subsequently, a seismic analysis is performed using the 1995 Kobe earthquake at several intensity levels, allowing the assessment of the structural response under representative dynamic conditions. The seismic response of the model is measured in terms of accelerations and displacements, providing key insight into the underlying dynamic response mechanisms under earthquakes. These experimental measurements are finally used to calibrate the finite element model, with the objective of enhancing the reliability of numerical simulations and improving the predictive capability for the seismic behavior of real-scale bridge structures. The findings contribute to the development of more effective seismic-resistant design strategies and to the reduction of seismic risk in critical civil engineering infrastructures, particularly bridges.
