Title: Shear Behavior fo Reinforced Concrete Beams with the Addition of Short Steel Fibers

Author(s): J.M.Calixto, L.V. Filho, and C.M. Goncalvez

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 207

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 449-466

Keywords: reinforced concrete beams; shear behavior; short steel fibers

DOI: 10.14359/12406

Date: 10/7/2002

Abstract:
The results of an experimental investigation of the effects of short steel fibers on the shear behavior of reinforced concrete beams are presented. Two types of steel fiber with different shapes, lengths and cross sections were used. Two series of reinforced concrete beams were cast and tested in the laboratory. Each series had a different ratio of transverse reinforcement as well as the addition or not of steel fibers in the concrete mix. The test results indicate the better performance of the beams made with fibers. These beams exhibited smaller crack width and spacing and consequently more stiffness and load carrying capacity. The results also show that the steel fibers improve the shear resisting mechanisms of the concrete represented by the aggregate interlocking and dowel action and behave as an additional transverse ireinforcement, consequently reducing the stresses in the stirrups. This finding suggests a code revision of the concrete contribuition for the shear design of beams when steel fibers are used. Their use can reduce the labor costs in the fabrication of these beams.