16/08/2023
Reinforced concrete walls are a common structural element in many buildings, but how to design them correctly? Is it better to use a linear or a nonlinear approach? In this article, we will explore these questions, make a comparison, and show you how to avoid underestimations and cracks by using the innovation method.
As a former structural engineer, I asked myself a question: "Is it really possible to solve any reinforced concrete wall construction in FEA software efficiently, economically, and safely?" After some thought, I decided the best thing to do would be to base my opinion on hard data. So I performed a short experiment.
In the article, I'll show you that using a conservative and non-economical linear analysis can cause unpleasant troubles with cracks and underestimating concrete in pressure. We will also take a look at optimization and where you can save some material while designing reinforced concrete walls.
In brief, I will compare two approaches to wall design.
The 2D linear analysis – Materials are defined linearly, you can expect the same behaviour in compression and in tension (That simplification does not correspond to reality, especially for concrete).
CSFM (Compatible stress field method) – Implemented in IDEA StatiCa Detail. In this type of analysis, you can expect that concrete will be excluded in tension, and the real stiffness of the reinforcement in tension will be used, including crack width calculation.
Reinforced concrete walls are a common structural element, but how to design them correctly? Is a linear or nonlinear approach better? Let's explore, compare and see how to avoid underestimations & cracks with the innovation method.