Nonlinear Analysis for behavior of Hollow Box Reinforced Concrete Arch Beams with Transverse Openings

Abstract

This research is devoted to investigate the behavior and performance of reinforced concrete curved beams(the curved beam and the applied loads lie in same plane) with hollow cross section with and without openings, unstrengthened and strengthened(internally by steel reinforcement). The ultimate deflection and the horizontal displacement of roller end as well as the ultimate load carrying capacity are investigated experimentally and are compared with the control beam (without opening) and also the mode of failure of all the specimens are compared with the control beam in order to investigate the effect of opening location and shape on the overall behavior of each specimen and also to investigate the effect of openings strengthening method suggested by (Mansur 2006).

Keywords: Curved beam, hollow cross section, strengthening