Parametric Study on Concrete Deep Beam with Web Opening Size by Finite Element Method

Abstract

A nonlinear layered finite element method (LFEM) is capable of analysing the shear strength of reinforced concrete deep beams. Based on the LFEM, a parametric study is undertaken to evaluate the opening size effects influencing on the shear strength of concrete deep beams. This paper initially presents comparisons of LFEM output with published test results on deep beams with web openings. The paper then focuses on a parametric study on the deep beams with varying geometric properties such as opening sizes. The results confirmed that the previously available design methods are inadequate in predicting the maximum shear strength when present of web openings and a comparative study of the predicted and test results indicate that the LFEM is accurate and reliable.