Volume :

4

Issue :

1

Abstract :

The strength upgrading techniques for reinforced concrete (RC) beams with external steel sections or fiber reinforced polymers are used commonly to enhance the flexural capacity of structural elements. Using external steel members, strengthening of RC beams for flexure is considered as one of the most favorable and implementable technique. In this papera research study is presented,investigating and evaluating the flexural response of rectangular RC beams strengthened in flexure with steel bars and steel angles. Five RC beams designed with minimum steel ratio were tested. One specimen without external steel element was tested as control RC beam. Two beams were strengthened by attaching external steel bars and two beams by attaching external steel angles.For strengthening the area ofexternal steel bars and steel angles were calculated on the basis of maximum steel ratio as per the ACI 10.3.5.The external reinforcing bars and angles were attached to the internal reinforcing steel bars by welding. All the specimens were tested under third point loadingin positive bending. Test result showed a better distribution of cracks and enhancement in the flexure capacity. The spacing and throat area of the weld played an important role in the ultimate load carrying capacity.