Finite Element Modelling of Reinforced Concrete Frame

Abstract

To model the complex behaviour of reinforced concrete analytically in its non-linear zone is difficult. This has led engineers in the past to rely heavily on empirical formulas which were derived from numerous experiments for the design of reinforced concrete structures. The Finite Element method makes it possible to take into account non-linear response. The FE method is an analytical tool which is able to model RCC or retrofitted structure and is able to calculate the non-linear behaviour of the structural members is Finite element method. For structural design and assessment of reinforced concrete members, the non-linear finite element (FE) analysis has become an important tool. The method can be used to study the behaviour of reinforced and pre-stressed concrete structures including both force and stress redistribution. The Finite Element method allows complex analyses of the nonlinear response of RC structures to be carried out in a routine fashion. FEM helps in the investigation of the behaviour of the structure under different loading conditions, its load deflection behaviour and the cracks pattern. In the present study, the non-linear response of RCC control frame and the retrofitted RCC frame using FE Modelling under the incremental loading has been carried out with the intention to investigate the relative importance of several factors in the non-linear finite element analysis of RCC frames. These include the variation in load displacement graph, the crack patterns, propagation of the cracks, the crack width and the effect of the non-linear behaviour of concrete and steel on the response of control frame and deformed frame.