An Indeterminate Strut-Tie Model and Load Distribution Ratio for RC Deep Beams- (II) Validity Evaluation

Abstract

In this study, the ultimate strength of 234 simply supported reinforced concrete deep beams tested to shear failure was evaluated by the ACI 318M-08's strut-tie model approach implemented with the indeterminate strut-tie model and load distribution ratio of the companion paper. The ultimate strength of the deep beams was also estimated by using the experimental shear strength models, the theoretical shear strength models, and the current strut-tie model design codes. The validity of the presented indeterminate strut-tie model and load distribution ratio was examined through the comparison of the strength analysis results classified according to the primary design variables of shear span-to-effective depth ratio, flexural reinforcement ratio, and compressive strength of concrete. The present study associated with the indeterminate strut-tie model and load distribution ratio evaluated the ultimate strength of 234 deep beams fairly accurately compared with those by other approaches. In addition, the present approach reflected the effects of the primary design variables on the ultimate strength of deep beams consistently and accurately.