Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Capacity for Irregular Cross-Sections Using Numerical Methods

Abstract

Although reinforced concrete member usually forms the rectangular shape, for architectural reasons or an optimization purpose the section may be formed on the nonrectangular or irregular shape. Analysis of the sectional capacity in the case of non-square or irregular sections is very complex and takes time. This paper offers a cross-sectional analysis with a numerical approach that is implemented in a computer program. Several cross-sectional forms from the results of previous studies were adopted for validation purposes. The selection of the cross-section considers the representation of the cross-section shape and the configuration of the reinforcement. In addition to the cross-sectional shape, the method of analysis is also a consideration for selection. From the results of the analysis using numerical methods and comparison of the analysis of previous researchers, it shows a fairly good level of accuracy with an average deviation of 2.35%. The largest deviation was in Section 7 and 8 with a deviation of 5.03 and 8.62%, respectively. This deviation is more due to the analysis method. Analysis using finite element method for sections, 9 and 10 show slightly higher than the numerical method due to neglecting tensile strength of concrete and strain hardening of steel on the numerical method. On the other side, the analysis with the cross-section conversion approach shows lower results. This software may be used to solve the nonrectangular or irregular sections.