Numerical Investigation of the Performance of Ledge Beams Considering the Contribution of Inner Stirrups to Support External Loads

Abstract

Reinforced concrete L-shaped beams are frequently used in the precast concrete industry specially in bridges construction to support a series of deck beams. The spandrel acts as a hanger for the ledge part, hence hanging reinforcement is used in the spandrel for this action. It was supposed that the outer vertical stirrups' branches are the main hanging elements for the ledge part; however, adding internal vertical branches contribute in hanging the ledge part. The perception that the outer vertical stirrups' branches solely are the main hanging elements and the neglection of the effect of inner stirrups' branches in hanging action can become questionable as it leads to using a great amount of outer reinforcement which leads to nesting of this part and increasing the fabrication cost of the beam. Therefore, a need exists to evaluate the contribution of the inner stirrups with the hanging steel reinforcement. This study aims to numerically model the performance of ledge beams taking into consideration distribution and amount of inner stirrups reinforcement, eccentricity of acting load on the capacity and performance of ledge beam.