Deflection Calculation of RC Beams: Finite Element Software versus Design Code Methods

The paper investigates accuracy of deflection predictions made by the finite element package ATENA and design code methods ACI and EC2. Deflections have been calculated for a large number of experimental reinforced concrete beams reported by three investigators. Statistical parameters have been established for each of the technique at different load levels, separately for the beams with small and moderate reinforcement ratio

Fracture analysis of concrete plane-stress pull-out tests

This paper reports on a parameter study which was performed for the Round Robin Analysis Of Anchor Bolts organized by RILEM Committee TC-90 FMA (Fracture Mechanics Applications). 18 plane-stress pull-out specimens were analyzed by the computer program SBETA which is based on the finite element method and takes into account nonlinear fracture mechanics. A simplified formula for the design of such anchors is derived

Computer models of concrete structures

The application of the nonlinear finite element analysis of concrete structures as a design tool is discussed. A computer program for structures in plane stress state is described and examples of its application in the research of fastening technique and in engineering practice are shown.Die Anwendung der nichtlinearen Finite Elemente Analyse auf Betontragwerke als Entwurfswerkzeug wird diskutiert. Ein Programm für die Konstruktionen im ebenen Spannungszustand wird beschrieben und Beispiele für die Anwendung in der Forschung der Befestigungstechnik und in der lngenieurpraxis werden vorgestellt

Validation of a simplified micromodel for analysis of infilled RC frames exposed to cyclic lateral loads

An RC frame structure with masonry infill walls (‘‘framed-masonry’’) exposed to lateral loads acts as a composite structure. Numerical simulation of framed-masonry is difficult and generally unreliable due to many difficulties and uncertainties in its modelling. In this paper, we reviewed the usability of an advanced non-linear FEM computer program to accurately predict the behaviour of framed-masonry elements when exposed to cyclic lateral loading. Numerical results are validated against the test results of framedmasonry specimens, with and without openings. Initial simplified micromodels were calibrated by adjustment of the input parameters within the physically justifiable borders, in order to obtain the best correlation between the experimental and numerical results. It has been shown that the use of simplified micromodels for the investigation of composite masonry-infilled RC frames requires in-depth knowledge and engineering judgement in order to be used with confidence. Modelling problems were identified and explained in detail, which in turn offer an insight to practising engineers on how to deal with them

Simulation of cracking and failure of concrete structures

The computer simulation of the cracking process in concrete structures is performed by means of the program system SBETA. The program is based on nonlinear hypo-elastic constitutive model, which covers all important, experimentally derived material properties, namely, cracking, nonlinear stress-strain law in compression, softenning in compression and tension, biaxial failure function, etc. The nonlinear fracture mechanics is included by means of the fictitious crack model and smeared crack approach. Two examples of computer simulation of concrete fracture are shown. In the first example, the failure mode of a pull-out test is presented. In the second example, the process of the crack development and shear failure of a reinforced concrete beam is simulated

Computer simulation of anchoring technique in reinforced concrete beams

The load transfer in reinforced concrete structures by means of anchoring elements is very common in modern concrete technology. Anchoring elements are often inserted in the bottom surface of a structure and the load is transfered by tensile action of the concrete. In case of shear failure, the anchores are located in the most exposed tensile zone of beams. The shear failure can be thus influenced by anchoring elements. This effect was analysed by means of the finite element program SBETA, which is based on the nonlinear-elastic constitutive model. The comparison with experiments for several loading configurations was made. In the second part a computer simulation of similar experiments was conducted