Reinforced Concrete Structure Strength Test in the Operating Stressed State

Abstract

.Anew strength test procedure is proposed for operating reinforced concrete structures. The procedure is based on comparing the load-bearing capability of an existing structure to forces in it from operating loads and effects. The load-bearing capability of such structures is taken to be the limiting values of the allowable longitudinal force [N] and bending moment [M] in the given structural element, provided its strength is assured for eccentricity e₀ of external force Nkon, acting in the cross-section under consideration. The design dependencies include service factors ó₁ and ó₂ for reinforcing steel (rebar), which describe the transmission efficiency of rebar under tension and compression, respectively. A method for determining the values of these factors is given.