Title:
Response of Direct Models of Reinforced Concrete Columns Subjected to Fire
Author(s):
Ah Book N. G, M. Saeed Mirza, and T. T. Lie
Publication:
Structural Journal
Volume:
87
Issue:
3
Appears on pages(s):
313-325
Keywords:
axial loads; columns (supports); cracking (fracturing); crack propagation; deformation; failure mechanisms; fire resistance; fire tests; furnaces; high temperature; models; reinforced concrete; reinforcing steels; thermal gradient; Structural Research
DOI:
10.14359/2638
Date:
5/1/1990
Abstract:
An experimental study of the complete response of 1/2.23 and 1/3.00-scale models of a square reinforced concrete prototype column subjected to fire and axial loads is presented. Considerable care was exercised during the stages of construction, instrumentation, and testing of the models in the furnace. The prototype response predicted from the test results for the 1/2.23-scale model showed very good to good agreement with the experimental data for the prototype column. Very good to good similitude was obtained in terms of the crack patterns, load-deformation characteristics, internal temperature distributions, failure mechanisms, and fire endurance of the 1/2.23-scale model and the prototype. Although it was not possible to scale accurately the temperature-time curve for the 1/3.00-scale model due to the furnace limitations, good to acceptable similitude was obtained for crack patterns, load-deformation characteristics, and the failure mechanisms. Temperature distortions were considered explicitly in the analysis of the model test results. The test results show that, with appropriate care, it is possible to construct and test models subjected to fire up to length-scale factors between 1/2.00 and 1/3.00; however, more experimental research is required to establish confidence.