Nonlinear Analysis of Arch hollow box RC Beams with openings in different locations

Abstract

This study is devoted to investigate the behavior and performance of arch reinforced concrete (R.C.) beams with openings in different locations along the beam at degrees of 15^o, 30^o, 45^o, 67.5^o and 90^o. For the analysis, the ANSYS V.16.0 software is used. The ordinary R.C. was modeled by 8-noded isoparametric brick elements, while the steel reinforcing bars were modeled as axial members (bar elements) connecting opposite nodes in the brick elements with full interaction assumption. The CFRP strips were modeled by shell elements. Results show that the ultimate capacity of the beams decreased when the location of the opening changed from 15^o to 45^o and return to increase when the location of the opening changed from 45^o to 90^o.

Keywords: reinforced concrete beam, arch beam, opening.