Deformation and strength of inclined RC isolated columns using experimental and three-dimensional finite element analyses
Firas F Hassan, Salah R. Al Zaidee
Abstract
Abstract This paper shows how the inclination angle affects the stiffness and strength of RC columns. Experimental work of two scaled-down vertical columns with a length of 1000 and 1250mm was achieved to provide data for subsequent validation of analytical and numerical finite element solutions. The analytical solution is based on current design assumptions while the numerical solution adopts a sophisticated FE simulation with three-dimensional elements for the concrete mass and link element for the rebars. The rebars are assumed to be fully bonded in the FE model. Hooke’s law and Damaged Plasticity models are respectively used to simulate the elastic and inelastic behavior of the concrete, whereas the elastic perfectly plastic model is proposed for the rebars’ behavior. Subsequently, the validated FE model is used to investigate the response of two inclined columns with a length of 1000mm and 1250mm. Three inclination angles of 5°, 7.5° and 10° are considered for each length. FE results indicate that column inclination reduces its axial stiffness and strength. A strength reduction ratio of about 0.8% up to 3.4% is noted for inclination angles of 5° to 10°. It is also noted that the longer column is more sensitive to the inclination angles.