The maintenance of “moment continuity” within structural concrete beam steps

Abstract

[Abstract]: In most structures the continuity or strength between two adjacent members is necessary even though the members may meet perpendicularly or axially offset. The internal forces generated at such a ‘step’ may cause failure within the joint before the design strength of the beam itself is attained. The step efficiency is therefore critical to the overall beam design. Previous research has shown that foundation steps often have serious strength deficiencies. It is the intent of this project to research the efficiency of ‘incorrect’ and ‘correct’ step detailing. The provision for correct detailing of steps in reference to Australian Standards has been found to be limited in many criteria, especially overall height. It is the objective of this project to analyse these code limitations and compare such with mathematical and physical test results. To gain a greater understanding of the effects that steel reinforcing has within the ‘step’, this project will analysis, construct and destruct to failure a series of stepped concrete beams with differing reinforcing arrangements. Use of this test data will promote more accurate design of concrete beam steps in order to maintain moment continuity.