Title:
Factors Affecting Strength of Elements Designed Using Strut-and-Tie Models
Author(s):
Sergio F. Brena and Micah C. Morrison
Publication:
Structural Journal
Volume:
104
Issue:
3
Appears on pages(s):
267-277
Keywords:
beam; strength; structural concrete; strut
DOI:
10.14359/18616
Date:
5/1/2007
Abstract:
Strut-and-tie models are useful in design of concrete structures containing discontinuity regions. A question that engineers often confront is whether a particular strut-and-tie model is appropriate or provides the optimal solution to a specific problem. The conservative nature of the strut-and-tie method is well documented, but the existing margin of safety of a structure designed using strut-and-tie models is not currently known. This paper provides experimental observations of four deep beams with openings designed using strut-and-tie models. Measured strength of the laboratory specimens was significantly higher than calculated capacities from the design strut-and-tie models. The paper focuses on identifying and quantifying potential sources of over-strength that should be considered for more accurate predictions of load capacity when using strut-andtie models in design.