Finite Element Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Continuous Deep Beams with Openings

Abstract

Now a day, numerical models for the assessment of behavior of structures become more accurate and reliable. A finite element modeling approach which is used to predict the behavior of structures is becoming more popular instead of conducting the full experimental tests, since the efficiency of the model can be evaluated by the experimental results, the numerical models shows a good agreement with the experimental program. In this study a finite element approach was taken for assessing the response of reinforced concrete continuous deep beams with openings subjected to two point loads. The responses such as failure mode, ultimate load and deflection from the load-mid span displacement graph were verified with the experimental result. Parametric study was carried out using the developed finite element model. In the parametric study the effects of opening size, shape and location on the load deflection behavior of deep beam was investigated. From the study it can be conclude that the load carrying capacity of deep beams is greatly affected by the occurrence of openings or discontinuities. The inclusion of 9% rectangular opening at the exterior and interior shear span between the support and loading point on the deep beam causes a 21.08% and 52.33% reduction in the load carrying capacity respectively. In addition this study has compared different types of opening size, shapes and locations and from those shapes the circular one was with better load carrying capacity and regarding the location of openings placing openings at the center of the exterior shear span near to the exterior support was more advantageous in this study.