Inadequate Lap Length Improvement in Precast Concrete Beams Connections

Abstract

The motivation behind this research is to provide a method to improve the beam to beam connection of precast concrete with inadequate lap length. The methodology of this research divided into two Parts. In the first Part, the paper tests six beam to beam connections. This was considered the preliminary findings of the study. Those beam to beam connections which derived optimum performance were proposed to be involved in the second Part. In the studies, plates made of steel, bolts and nuts system and technique of welding were used to enhance the performance of the anchorage system. The experiment on the welded end plate connection system indicates a good result as it increases the capability of bars for bearing and resisting the slippage between reinforcement and concrete significantly. The findings also show that there are many unsatisfactory connections. Nevertheless, they still have potentials for reaching the required loading capacity. Thus, as a way forward, more studies could improve their performance.