Effect of the number of horizontal construction joints In reinforced concrete beams

Abstract EN

In this paper some results from previous experimental test are adopted and analyzed using a nonlinear three-dimensional finite element ANSYS computer program (v.11) to investigate the effect of the presence of horizontal construction joints (H.C.J.) on the behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) beams.

Three beams having one, two and three (H.C.J.) that divide the beam into equal parts, as well as one reference beam without a joint were analyzed.

The results obtained from the finite element analysis show very good agreement with the results obtained from the previous experimental test.

The maximum differences in ultimate loads were about (8.2-10.4)% for all types of tested beams.

The presence of one, two and three (H.C.J.) in RC beams under flexure gave a decrease in the value of the cracking load such that Pcr was (97%), (85%) and (80%) of (Bref).

The respective ultimate load capacity Pu was (96%), (89%) and (84%) compared to (Bref).