Title: Simplified Method to Analyze Continuous Reinforced Concrete Beams during Fire Exposure

Author(s): S. F. El-Fitiany and M. A. Youssef

Publication: Structural Journal

Volume: 111

Issue: 1

Appears on pages(s): 145-156

Keywords: elevated temperatures; fire analysis; flexural stiffness; sectional analysis; thermal expansion

DOI: 10.14359/51686544

Date: 1/1/2014

Abstract:
Structural engineers are in need of analytical tools to evaluate the performance of reinforced concrete (RC) structures during fire events. Existing numerical methods require extensive knowledge of heat transfer calculations and the finite element method. This paper proposes a rational method to track the fire performance of continuous RC beams during ASTM E119 standard fire exposure. The proposed method uses a simplified sectional analysis approach and is based on separating the effects of thermal deformations and vertical loads. The effective flexural stiffness and the thermal deformations of the beam are estimated using simple expressions that are developed based on a comprehensive parametric study.