A refined strut–tie model approach and its application tool

Abstract

This paper presents a refined strut–tie model approach and its application tool for the analysis and design of structural concrete. In this approach, non-linear techniques are incorporated in the development, analysis and verification processes of a strut–tie model. The additional positioning of concrete ties and steel struts at the locations of steel ties and concrete struts, respectively, is also incorporated. The proposed approach can eliminate the limitations the current strut–tie model approach has in the prediction of the behaviour and strength of structural concrete as well as in the precise design of structural concrete which experiences non-linear behaviour. The interactive computer graphics programme for the refined strut–tie model approach consists of three parts. The first and second parts are considered as the pre- and post-processors for a finite-element analysis of two-dimensional plain concrete and plane truss structures. The third part is a design routine for dimensioning and detailing the components of the developed strut–tie model. The use of the interactive computer graphics programme in the refined strut–tie model approach is illustrated with an example of the analysis of a reinforced concrete deep beam tested to failure. The refined strut–tie model approach with computer graphics capabilities can provide effective and consistent solutions to a large number of complex analysis and design problems.