Simulation of reinforced concrete beam retrofitted with steel angles subjected to flexure

Abstract

PurposeThe study focused on improving stiffness and premature failure, the weaknesses of the other retrofitting techniques and the retrofitted beam. A detailed study regarding the section properties and effective length of the angles was also carried out in this study.Design/methodology/approachIn this article, a comprehensive study was carried out using a finite element method to investigate the behavior and performance of steel angles as a retrofitting technique subjected to flexure. A model was developed in ABAQUS and validated with the available experimental works. The model was then applied to examine the beams retrofitted with the steel angles.FindingsFrom the investigation, the strengthening technique successfully enhanced the flexural capacity and stiffness of the beam. The stiffness of the retrofitted beam achieved more than 2.5 times of the controlled beam. The thickness and flange width of the angles improved both the load capacity and stiffness whereas, web width, having same flange width, improved the stiffness only. This study also illustrates that a premature failure can be minimized by maintaining L/S (length to span) ratio between 0.7 and 1.0 along with the welding to provide the connections between the angles and stirrups.Practical implicationsThe developed model and the findings can be used for designing the retrofitting technique for the damaged as well as beams to be increased their capacity.Originality/valueThe research focused on the implication of a new technique of retrofitting, steel angles to improve the stiffness of beam, which is one of the major drawbacks of traditional techniques. Moreover, the research aimed to improve premature failure by bonding the retrofitting materials with the stirrups of the mother beam through welding.