3D finite element investigation of the compressive membrane action effect in reinforced concrete flat slabs

2017 ◽  
Vol 136 ◽  
pp. 233-244 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aikaterini S. Genikomsou ◽  
Maria Anna Polak
1985 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 63-72 ◽  
Author(s):  
I. G. Buckle ◽  
A. R. Dickson ◽  
M. H. Phillips

The destructive testing of three reinforced concrete highway bridges, recently made redundant by road realignment, is summarized. The procedure used to test the bridges to ultimate conditions is described and load capacities of about 20 times class 1 axle loads are reported for all structures. Analyses based on conventional ultimate strength theory can account for only two-thirds of these ultimate loads and then only if second order effects are included. A nonlinear finite element computer program has been developed and used to analyze one of these structures. Excellent prediction of the ultimate load is made by the program. It is therefore suggested that compressive membrane action, which is automatically modelled in the finite element solution, plays a significant role in the enhancement of load capacity.The paper concludes that a more sophisticated approach to the assessment of bridge load capacity is necessary if realistic estimates of actual strength are to be made. Limited experience with a nonlinear finite element program suggests one such approach. If used with care, some relief to the bridge replacement program can be expected. Key words: highway bridges, ultimate load capacity, finite element analysis, reinforced concrete, field testing, compressive membrane action.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Faezeh Ravazdezh ◽  
Julio A. Ramirez ◽  
Ghadir Haikal

This report describes a methodology for demand estimate through the improvement of load distribution factors in reinforced concrete flat-slab and T-beam bridges. The proposed distribution factors are supported on three-dimensional (3D) Finite Element (FE) analysis tools. The Conventional Load Rating (CLR) method currently in use by INDOT relies on a two-dimensional (2D) analysis based on beam theory. This approach may overestimate bridge demand as the result of neglecting the presence of parapets and sidewalks present in these bridges. The 3D behavior of a bridge and its response could be better modeled through a 3D computational model by including the participation of all elements. This research aims to investigate the potential effect of railings, parapets, sidewalks, and end-diaphragms on demand evaluation for purposes of rating reinforced concrete flat-slab and T-beam bridges using 3D finite element analysis. The project goal is to improve the current lateral load distribution factor by addressing the limitations resulting from the 2D analysis and ignoring the contribution of non-structural components. Through a parametric study of the slab and T-beam bridges in Indiana, the impact of selected parameters on demand estimates was estimated, and modifications to the current load distribution factors in AASHTO were proposed.


Structures ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 27 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Marília G. Marques ◽  
Elyson A.P. Liberati ◽  
Mário J. Pimentel ◽  
Rafael A. de Souza ◽  
Leandro M. Trautwein

2011 ◽  
Vol 82 ◽  
pp. 272-277 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ben M. Punton ◽  
Mike P. Byfield ◽  
Peter P. Smith

The primary function of any designed structure is to be able to support pre-determined static loads which allow the building to be occupied for its intended use. In the design process the unlikely event that the building is damaged must be considered. Often the focus is directed to the loss of primary loading elements that are fundamental to the integrity of the structure. The damage that is caused as a consequence may propagate causing collapse of surrounding elements culminating with the loss of an extensive proportion of the floor area. To prevent collapse inherent alternative load paths can be utilised. Both the elastic and plastic approved methods for the design of reinforced concrete in modern codes of practice neglect the effect of membrane forces. It has been recognised for some time that the omission of compressive membrane action (CMA), also described as ‘arching action’, can lead to a significant underestimation of load capacity. Previous studies which have attempted to determine if CMA is capable of supporting damaged columns under accidental loading conditions have not had supporting experimental testing of slabs at appropriate span to depth ratios. This paper presents an experimental program conducted on laterally restrained slab strips at approximately half scale. Combined with an analytical study, the extent to which CMA can be used as an effective robustness tool has been assessed.


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