SOLVED EXERCISES

COLUMNS

The purpose of this publication is to present project examples,

calculation and verification of sections corresponding to simple columns and
simple compression tests for the students of the subject of
Reinforced Concrete of the Faculty of Engineering of the National University of
La Plata.

We say sections and not columns since it is not included in the examples.
consideration of the effects of buckling that are part of another publication.

The most important regulations or recommendations currently in effect worldwide

they differ from each other in the different values and even in the safety criteria.
In order to illustrate to the student the magnitude of these differences,
allowing you to form your own judgment, two tables are added (one for columns
simple and another for zunchadas) with the corresponding values to the
most common regulations.

It should be noted that many of the proposed exercises,

regardless of the regulatory aspect, there is no unique solution and in
in those cases, a solution has been adopted indicating the reasons why
the different values were chosen.

A) SIMPLE COLUMNS:

Size the reinforcement of a 25x25 cm column to support a load

PD= 600 kN and PL= 400kN.

20 MPa
420 MPa

1.4 PD840 kN
PUmaximum among í
î1.2 PD+ 1.6 PL1.2 x 600 + 1.6 x 400 = 1360 kN

PU=fx Pn (max) =fx (0.80 x Pn)

f: reduction coefficient of resistance as a function of the type of failure. For columns

simples is worth 0.65

\Pn = PU/ (0.80 x 0.65) = 1360 kN / (0.80 x 0.65)

2615 kN

Ag = 25 cm x 25 cm = 625 cm2

Pn = 0.85 x f’c x (Ag – Ast) + fy x Ast = 0.85 x f’c x Ag + Ast x (fy – 0.85 x f’c)

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Þ Ast = (2615 kN – 0.85 x 2 kN/cm2625 cm2)

42 kN/cm2- 0.85 x 2 kN/cm2)

38.5 cm2

8 db 25 = 39.3 cm2(+2%)

which leads to an amount of: r = 39.3 / 625 = 0.063 (>0.01 and <0.08)

Stirrups:
Depending on the adopted longitudinal reinforcement, it is appropriate to adopt stirrups with a diameter
dbe = 8 mm and a separation equal to the smaller value of:

- 16db longitudinal = 16 x 2.5 cm = 40 cm

- 48 dbe = 48 x 0.8 cm = 38.4 cm
- shorter side of the column = 25 cm

adopted: dbe8 c/ 25 cm

A.2) Size the column of the figure using the minimum amount of steel.
possible.

20 MPa
500 MPa
PD1000 kN
PL= 360 kN

How the minimum steel section should be placed, the concrete section will be the maximum:

rmín. = Ast / Ag = 1 % ÞAst = 0.01 x Ag

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Solved Exercises COLUMNS

ì1.4 PD1.4 x 1000 kN = 1400 kN

PUmaximum among í
î1.2 PD+ 1.6 PL= 1.2 x 1000 + 1.6 x 360 = 1776 kN

PU=fx Pn (max) =fx (0.80 x Pn)

\Pn = PU/ (0.80 x 0.65) = 1776 kN / (0.80 x 0.65)

3415 kN

0.85 x f’c x (Ag – Ast) + fy x Ast = 0.85 x f’c x (Ag – 0.01 x Ag) + fy x 0.01 x Ag

= 0.85 x f’c x Ag (1 – 0.01) + fy x 0.01 x Ag

Þ Ag = Pn / [0.85 x f’c x (1 – 0.01) + fy x 0.01]

Ag = 3415 kN / [0.85 x 2 kN/cm2x (1 - 0.01) + 50 kN/cm2x 0.01] = 1564 cm2

A = 4xbx15 cm + 15 cmx15 cm Therefore b = 1564 cm2- 15 cm x 15 cm = 22.3 cm

4 x 15 cm

b is adopted = 22.5 cm: Ag = 4 x 22.5cm x 15cm + 15cm x 15cm = 1575 cm

since the adopted value for b is practically equal to the calculated one, we can determine
Since the minimum amount adopted (Ast = 0.01 x Ag), this expression is
continues to maintain.

Ast = 0.01 x 1575 cm215.75 cm2

it is adopted: 12 db 12 + 8 db 8 = 17.56 cm2

Stirrups:
depending on the adopted longitudinal reinforcement, it is appropriate to adopt stirrups with a diameter
dbe = 6 mm and a separation equal to the smaller value of:

- 16db longitudinal = 16 x 1.2 cm = 19.2 cm

- 48 dbe = 48 x 0.6 cm = 28.8 cm
- shorter side of the column = 15 cm

adopted: dbe6 c/ 15 cm

A.3) Calculate the maximum ultimate load that a column can support
minimum dimensions.

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SOLVED EXERCISES COLUMNS

Data: f’c = 20 MPa

420 MPa

The minimum allowable section for a column is 20x20cm.

Þ Ag = 20 cm x 20 cm = 400 cm2

To obtain the maximum load (PUwe must place the maximum amount of reinforcement,
assuming that there are no joints we adopt;

Ast max. = Ast / Ag = 8% Therefore, Ast max. = 0.08 x Ag = 0.08 x 20 x 20 = 32 cm2

Þ Pn = 0.85 x f’c x (Ag – Ast) + fy x Ast

= 0.85 x 2 kN/cm2x (400cm2- 32cm2) + 42 kN/cm2x 32cm2

Pn = 1970 kN

For simple columns there is:

PU0.65 x 0.80 x Pn = 0.65 x 0.80 x 1970 kN = 1024.4 kN

For the construction of the column, we adopted (2db20 + 1db16) at each corner (33.16 cm2)

Stirrups:
for longitudinal reinforcement diameters > 32mm and for rebar bundles it corresponds
adopt stirrups with a diameter dbe = 12 mm and a spacing equal to the smaller value of:

- 16 db longitudinal (equivalent)* = 16 x 3.25 cm = 52 cm

- 48 dbe = 48 x 1.2 cm = 57.6 cm
- smaller side of the column = 20 cm

adopted: dbe12 c/ 20 cm

* db equivalent =Ö[(2 x 3.14 cm2 + 2.01 cm2) x 4 /p] = 3.25 cm

If there were longitudinal reinforcement splices along the column, the maximum quantity
It should be limited to 4% so as not to exceed the maximum amount of 8% in the junction area.

If we calculate the separation c between longitudinal reinforcements, we have: (adopting a

coating of 3.00 cm, moderate environment

c = 20cm - 2x3cm - 2x1.2cmx1.20 - 2x3.25cmx1.20 = 3.32 cm

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SOLUTION EXERCISES COLUMNS

value that could become invalid depending on the size of the coarse aggregate of the concrete.
This is why, in general, it is not advisable to work at the upper limit of the amount.

A.4) Size a circular column with a minimum quantity capable of supporting a

load PD= 2000 kN and PL= 1000 kN, assuming concrete with f’c = 25 MPa and steel with
a yield strength of 420 MPa.

ì1.4 PD1.4 x 2000 kN = 2800 kN

PUmaximum among í
D+ 1.6 PL= 1.2 x 2000 + 1.6 x 1000 = 4000 kN

PU=fx Pn (max) =fx (0.80 x Pn)

Pn = PU/ (0.80 x 0.65) = 4000 kN / (0.80 x 0.65)

7692 kN

It is requested to be equipped with a minimum amount, therefore:

rmín. = Ast / Ag = 0.01

Pn = 0.85 x f’c x (Ag – Ast) + fy x Ast (1)

= 0.85 x f’c x Ag (1 – 0.01) + fy x 0.01 x Ag

Þ Ag = Pn / [0.85 x f’c x (1 – 0.01) + fy x 0.01]

= 7692 kN / [0.85 x 2.5 kN/cm2x (1 - 0.01) + 42 kN/cm2x 0.01]

Ag = 3048 cm2

Ag = px D^2 = 3048cm2To round the value of D, it is adopted: D = 60 cm

4

Þ Ag = px 60^2 = 2827.4 cm2

4

returning to expression (1), Ast is recalculated:

Pn = 0.85 x f’c x (Ag – Ast) + fy x Ast

= 0.85 x f’c x Ag – 0.85 x f’c x Ast + fy x Ast

Þ Ast = (Pn – 0.85 x f’c x Ag) / (fy – 0.85 x f’c)

= (7692 kN – 0.85 x 2.5kN/cm2x 2827.4 cm2) / (42 kN/cm2- 0.85 x 2.5 kN/cm2)

42 cm214 db 20

We verified the amount: r = Ast / Ag = 42 cm2 / 2827.4 cm2 = 0.015 > 0.01, but it still continues.
being a small amount.

Please note that when a minimum amount of 1% is adopted, it is always rounded.

The concrete section should be made by adopting a value lower than the calculated one, since if a higher one is chosen
a lower amount would be obtained than the minimum required by regulation.

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SOLVED EXERCISES COLUMNS

Stirrups:
Based on the adopted longitudinal reinforcement, it is necessary to adopt stirrups with a diameter
dbe = 8 mm and a spacing equal to the smaller value of:

- 16db longitudinal = 16 x 2 cm = 32 cm
- 48 dbe = 48 x 0.8 cm = 38.4 cm
- shorter side of the column = 60 cm

is adopted: dbe8 c/ 32 cm

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RESOLVED EXERCISES COLUMNS

A.5) Size the reinforcement of the column in the figure to withstand a load
maximum of: PD= 1000 kN y PL= 100 kN.

20 MPa
420 MPa

ì1.4 PD= 1.4 x 1000 kN = 1400 kN

PUmaximum among í
î1.2 PD+ 1.6 PL1.2 x 1000 + 1.6 x 100 = 1360 kN

PU=fx Pn (max) =fx (0.80 x Pn)

\Pn = PU/ (0.80 x 0.65) = 1400 kN / (0.80 x 0.65)

2692 kN

Ag = 15 cm x 35 cm + 45 cm x 20 cm = 1425 cm2

Pn = 0.85 x f’c x (Ag – Ast) + fy x Ast = 0.85 x f’c x Ag + Ast x (fy – 0.85 x f’c)

Þ Ast = (2692 kN – 0.85 x 2 kN/cm2x 1425 cm2)

42 kN/cm2- 0.85 x 2 kN/cm2)

6.6 cm2

The amount is verified: r = 6.6 / 1425 = 0.0046 < 0.01 (minimum)

Therefore, the reinforcement corresponding to the minimum amount is adopted:

Ast = rx Ag = 0.01 x 1425 cm214.25 cm2

12 db 12 = 13.6 cm is adopted.2(difference < 5%, acceptable)

Stirrups:
based on the adopted longitudinal reinforcement
adopt stirrups with a diameter dbe = 6 mm and a spacing
equal to the lesser value of:

- 16db longitudinal = 16 x 1.2 cm = 19.2 cm

- 48 dbe = 48 x 0.6 cm = 28.84 cm
- shorter side of the column = 15 cm

is adopted: dbe6 c/ 15 cm

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Solved Exercises COLUMNS

A.6) Calculate the ultimate and service load of the indicated column and verify its
sized.

25 Mpa
420 Mpa
PD= 1.50 x PL
As = 16 db 25

First we check the amount of the column:

Ast = 16 x 4.91 cm2= 78.56 cm2

Ag = 40 x 40 = 1600 cm2

Þ r = Ast / Ag = 78.56 cm21600 cm24.9%, acceptable

It must be noted that in the event of having to splice the reinforcements, they cannot
merge all in the same section as we would have an amount in the merging area
der= 9.8% > 8% (maximum amount).

Pn = 0.85 x f’c x (Ag – Ast) + fy x Ast

6532.6 kN

PU= 0.65 x 0.80 x Pn = 0.65 x 0.80 x 6532.6 kN= 3397 kN

doing: Pu = 1.2 PD+ 1.6 PL

= 1.2 (1.5 x PL) + 1.6 PL Þ PL= 3397 kN / (1.2 x 1.5 + 1.6) = 999 kN

PD= 1.5 x PL1.5 x 999 kN = 1498.5 kN

Verification of stirrups:

∙ Internal stirrup:

- db long. = 25 mm Þ dbe = 8 mm

and a separation equal to the smallest value of:

- 16db longitudinal = 16 x 2.5 cm = 40 cm

- 48 dbe = 48 x 0.8 cm = 38.4 cm
- smaller side of the column = 40 cm

therefore dbe8 c/ 30 cm, is correct.

∙ External stirrup:

for bar packages a stirrup diameter of: dbe = 12mm should be adopted
and a separation equal to the smallest value of:

- 16db equivalent longitudinal * = 16 x 4.33 cm = 69 cm

- 48 dbe = 48 x 1.2 cm = 57 cm
- shorter side of the column = 40 cm

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SOLVED EXERCISES COLUMNS

* equivalent db =Ö[(3 x 4.91 cm2) x 4 /p] = 4.33 cm

Therefore, it is clear that the separation of the external support is correct (30 cm) but it is not the
bar diameter (dbe = 10mm). It should have been adopted: dbe 12 every 30cm.

A.7) Dimension the reinforcement of the following column to support a load of:
PD= 930 kN and PL= 930 kN.

Data: f’c = 25 MPa

fy = 420 MPa

ì1.4 PD1.4 x 930 kN = 1302 kN

PUmaximum among í
1.2 PD+ 1.6 PL= 1.2 x 930 + 1.6 x 930 = 2604 kN

PU=fx Pn (max) =fx (0.80 x Pn)

\Pn = PU/ (0.80 x 0.65) = 2604 kN / (0.80 x 0.65)

5008 kN

Ag = 50 cm x 50 cm = 2500 cm2

Pn = 0.85 x f’c x (Ag – Ast) + fy x Ast = 0.85 x f’c x Ag + Ast x (fy – 0.85 x f’c)

Þ Ast = (5008 kN – 0.85 x 2.5 kN/cm2x 2500 cm2)

(42 kN/cm2- 0.85 x 2.5 kN/cm2)

Ast < 0

The CIRSOC 201-02 Regulation in cases where the concrete section is imposed
for non-structural conditions it indicates that: "for the purposes of calculating the minimum amount
a reduced effective area can be used as a result of clearing the area needed to obtain
a column with a minimum amount. In no case can the effective area to be used be less than the
50% of the gross area of the column,

rmín. = 0.01 = Ast / Ag

Pn = 0.85 x f’c x (Ag – rx Ag) + fy x rx Ag

Þ Ag = Pn .
0.85 x f'c x (1 - r) + r x fy

Ag = 5008 kN .
(0.85 x 2.5 kN/cm2x (1 - 0.01) + 0.01 x 42 kN/cm2)
2
Ag ficticia = 1984 cm2 The real value = 2500 cm Fictitious Ag > 0.5 Real Ag, correct

Þ Ast = 0.01 x fictitious Ag = 0.01 x 1984 cm219.8 cm2(4db20 + 4db16) is adopted

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SOLVED EXERCISES COLUMNS

which represents a real amount of: r = 19.8 cm22500 cm20.0079

value that is not recommended in elements of great structural commitment such as the
columns (could be accepted at the bottom of piles). The CEB-90 Regulation has left without
the effect is this decrease in minimum geometric quantity but has a value of quantity
minimum: 0.008 < 0.01.

Therefore, it is given:

∙ CIRSOC 201-02: As = 0.0079 x 50 cm x 50 cm = 19.8 cm2

∙ CEB-90: As = 0.008 x 50 cm x 50 cm = 20 cm2

A.8) Size the reinforcement of the following column to support a load of:
PD= 800 kN and PL= 600 kN, with the section indicated in the figure:

20 MPa
fy = 420 MPa

1.4 PD= 1.4 x 800 kN = 1120 kN

PUmaximum between í
î1.2 PD+ 1.6 PL= 1.2 x 800 + 1.6 x 600 = 1920 kN

PU=fx Pn (max) =fx (0.80 x Pn)

\Pn = PU/ (0.80 x 0.65) = 1920 kN / (0.80 x 0.65)

3692.3 kN

Area = 20 cm x 20 cm = 400 cm2

Pn = 0.85 x f’c x (Ag – Ast) + fy x Ast = 0.85 x f’c x Ag + Ast x (fy – 0.85 x f’c) (1)

Þ Ast = (3692.3 kN – 0.85 x 2 kN/cm2x 400 cm2)

42 kN/cm2- 0.85 x 2 kN/cm2)

74.7 cm2

the amount is verified: r = 74.7 / 400 = 0.18 > 0.08 (rmax.)

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SOLVED EXERCISES COLUMNS

Therefore, the column must be resized, for this, a maximum amount is adopted.
r = 0.08 assuming that there will be no splices along the column.

Ast = rx Ag = 0.08 x Ag

Þ Ag = Pn .
0.85 x f’c x (1 - r) + r x fy

Ag = 3692.3 kN .
(0.85 x 2. kN/cm2x (1 – 0.08) + 0.08 x 42 kN/cm2)

Ag = 750 cm2b = Ö750 = 27.3 cm, b is adopted as 30 cm

therefore: Ag = 30 cm x 30 cm = 900 cm2, again calculate Ast:

2
Þ Ast = (3692.3 kN - 0.85 x 2 kN/cmx 900 cm2)
2 2
42 kN/cm - 0.85 x 2 kN/cm )

Ast = 53.7 cm2

the amount is verified: r = 53.7 / 900 = 0.06 (> 0.01 and < 0.08)

adopted: 12 db 20 + 4 db 25 = 57.3 cm2

Stirrups:
depending on the longitudinal reinforcement adopted, it is necessary to adopt stirrups with a diameter
dbe = 12 mm (bar package) and a separation equal to the smallest value of:

- 16dB equivalent longitudinal * = 16 x 3.46 cm = 55 cm

- 48 dbe = 48 x 1.2 cm = 57 cm
- shorter side of the column = 30 cm

adopted: dbe12 c/ 30 cm

* db equivalent = Ö[(3 x 3.14 cm2) x 4 /p] = 3.46 cm

c = (30 - 2.5 x 2 - 2 x 0.8 x 1.20 - 4 x 2 x 1.20 - 2.5 x 1.2) / 2 = 5.24 cm

c = 5.24 cm < 15 dbe = 18 cm, therefore it does not require an intermediate bracing.

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SOLUTION EXERCISES COLUMNS

A.9) Design a simple column for the following conditions

Materials: - Concrete: f’c= 20 MPa

Steel: fy= 420 MPa

Transversal Section: - To be defined

Stirrups: 0.02 m
Diameter: To be defined

Longitudinal Armor: - To be defined

Request: - PD= 550 kN ; PL= 300 kN

Resolution:
1.4 PD = 1.4´550 = 770 kN
Pumaximum between THPu = 1140 kN
1.2 PD+ 1.6 PL= 1.2´550+1.6´300 = 1140 kN

Pn= Pu/ (0.80f)= 1140 / (0.80´0.65) = 2192 kN

A geometric amount is adopted "r= 0.025" so it results:

Ag= Pn/ [0.85 f’c+r(fy- 0.85 f’c] = 2192 / [0.85'2 + 0.025'(42 - 0.85'2)] =

Ag809.7 cm2

A square column of b is adopted.x= by= 0.30 m resulting in Ag = 900 cm2and the

armor is obtained as:

Ast=n- 0.85 f’cAg) / (fy- 0.85 f’c(2192 - 0.85 * 2 * 900) / (42 - 0.85 * 2)
Ast16.41 cm2

For the longitudinal reinforcement, the following is adopted: 8 db16 = 8 × 2.01 = 16.08 cm2

What leads to an amount: r = 16.08 / 900 = 0.018

Depending on the diameter of the longitudinal bars, it is necessary to adopt a stirrup of 6 mm.
in diameter with a spacing equal to the lesser value between:

16 dblongitudinal 16'1.6 = 25.6 cm

48 dbe= 48'0.6 = 28.8 cm
short side column = 30 cm

that is, 26 cm.

Armed: Estr.db6 c/26cm

0.30 m 8 db16

0.30 m

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A.10) Recalculate the column from the previous example minimizing the concrete section

Resolution:

A geometric rate of "r = 0.04" is adopted to account for the possibility that
There are splices in the considered section.

Ag= Pn/ [0.85 f’c+r(fy- 0.85 f’c)] = 2192 / [0.85´2 + 0.04´(42 - 0.85´2)]

Ag= 661.83 cm2 so it is adopted bx = by= 0.26 m obtained

Ast= (Pn - 0.85 f'cAg) / (fy- 0.85 f’c= (2192 - 0.85 * 2 * 676) / (42 - 0.85 * 2) =

Ast25.88 cm2

For the longitudinal reinforcement it is adopted: 4 db25 + 4 db16 = 27.68 cm2

What leads to an amount: r = 27.68 / 676 = 0.041 » 0.04

Depending on the maximum diameter of the longitudinal bars, it is necessary to adopt a stirrup.
of 8 mm in diameter with a separation equal to the lesser value between:

16 less than dblongitudinal 16'1.6 = 25.6 cm

48 dbe= 48´0.8 = 38.4 cm
short side column 26 cm

that is, 26 cm.

Armed:
4db25

4db16
0.26 m

Str. db8 c/26cm

0.26 m

A.11) Calculate "Pufor a simple column with dimensions and reinforcements

minimum regulatory longitudinal and adopt its strapping.

Materials: Concrete: f'c= 20 MPa

Steel fy= 420 MPa

Transversal Section: - bx= by= 0.20 m

Stirrups: 0.02 m
Diameter: To be defined

Longitudinal Armor: - Ast= 4 db12 = 4´1.13 = 4.52 cm2

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Resolution:

The column checks the limit amounts since it has: 0.01 < 4.52 / 400 = 0.0113 < 0.08

Pu= 0.80f[0.85 f’c (AgAst) + fyAst0.80 × 0.65 × [0.85 × 2 × (400 - 4.52) + 4.52 × 42] =

Pu= 448 kN

Based on the maximum diameter of the longitudinal bars, it is appropriate to adopt a stirrup.
of 6 mm in diameter with a separation equal to the lesser value between:

16 less than dblongitudinal 16´1.2 = 19.2 cm

48 dbe= 48 inches equals 28.8 cm
smaller side column = 20 cm

that is, 19 cm.

Armed: b

4db12
0.20 m

0.20 m

A.12) Develop simple expressions that allow for preliminary sizing of

short simple columns for usual concrete resistances and fy= 420 MPa.

Resolution:

A geometric quantity of 0.02 is adopted, leading to columns of dimensions

reasonable and easy to assemble and concrete even in the presence of joints.

Ag= Pn/ [0.85 f’c +r(fy- 0.85 f’c]= 1.92 Pu/ [0.85 f’c +r(fy- 0.85 f’c)]

Ag= 1.92 Pu/ [0.85 f’c+ 0.02 (42 - 0.85 f’c)] =1.92 Pu/ (0.833 f’c+ 0.84

For f'c= 20 MPa results Ag(cm2)»0.77 Pu(kN)

For f'c= 25 MPa results Ag(cm2)»0.66 Pu(kN)

For f'c= 30 MPa results in Ag(cm2)»0.58 Pu(kN)

A.13) Calculate 'PLfor the next column

Materials: Concrete: f'c= 25 MPa

Steel: fy= 420 MPa

Transversal Section: - Circular with a diameter of 0.21 m Ag=p´212/ 4 =

Ag= 346.36 cm2

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Stirrups: 0.02 m
6 mm
Separation: 15 cm

Longitudinal Armor: - 6 db16 = 6 x 2.01 = 12.06 cm2 Þ r = 12.06 / 346.36

r = 0.0348

Request: - PD= 400 kN; PL= ?

Resolution:

It is ruled out that it is a braced column since the distance between the stirrups is
greater than 8 centimeters.

The geometric quantity of the longitudinal reinforcement is 0.0348, so it is within

of the regulatory limits.

The diameter of the stirrups is suitable for the diameter used in the reinforcements.
longitudinal while the separation of 15 cm is less than the smallest value between:

16 less than dblongitudinal 16'1.6 = 25.6 cm

48 dbe= 48´0.6 = 28.8 cm
smaller column dimension = 21 cm

The column therefore meets the regulatory conditions in order to be

calculated as a simple column.

Pu=fPn(max)=f0.80 [0.85 f’c(AgAst) + fyAst] =

Pu0.65 × 0.80 × [0.85 × 2.5 × (346.36 - 12.06) + 42 × 12.06] =

Pu= 632.79 kN

remembering that
1.4 PD= 1.4 × 400 = 560 kN < Pu
Pu= 632.79 kN = maximum between
1.2 PD+ 1.6 PL

it turns out that it should be

Pu= 632.79 kN = 1.2 PD+ 1.6 PL= 1.2´400 + 1.6 PL

where from
PL= (632.79 - 1.2´400) / 1.6 = 95.49 kN

Armado:

0.21 m 6db16

Estr. db6 c/15cm

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A.14) Calculate the reinforcements of a simple column for the following conditions

Materials: - Concrete: f'c= 20 Mpa

Steel fy= 500 MPa

Transversal Section: - bx= 0.25 m ; by= 0.30 m

Stirrups: 0.02 m
To be defined

Longitudinal Armor: - To be defined

Request: - PD200 kN ; PL= a) 350 kN b) 100 kN

Resolution:

Pu= max (1.4´200 = 280 kN ; 1.2´200 + 1.6´350 = 800 kN) = 800 kN

Pn= Pu/ (0.80f)= 800 / (0.80´0.65) = 1538.46 kN

Ast=(Pn- 0.85 f’cAg) / (fy- 0.85 f’c(1538.46 - 0.85 × 2 × 25 × 30) / (50 - 0.85 × 2)

Ast5.45 cm2Þ r = 5.45 / (25´30) = 0.007

So it does not verify minimum amount (rmine= 0.01) and the effective area is calculated.
reduced necessary to resist "P"uwith a minimum amount:

Reduced Effective Area = Pn / [0.85 f’cr(fy- 0.85 f’c)] =

Effective Reduced Area = 1538.46 / [0.85´2 + 0.01´(50 - 0.85´2)] =

Reduced Effective Area = 704.75 cm2Ag/ 2 = 375 cm2

Therefore, a longitudinal reinforcement equal to the minimum amount applied to the area is adopted.
minimum effective calculated earlier:

Ast0.01 × 704.75 = 7.05 cm2

The following armor is adopted: Ast= 6 db12 = 6.78 cm2 (dif. -3.8%)
Stirrups: db6 c / 19 cm

Armed: Str. db6 c/19cm

0.30 m 6db12

0.25 m

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b) Pu= max (1.4´200 = 280 kN ; 1.2´200 + 1.6´100 = 400 kN) = 400 kN

Pn= Pu/ (0.80f)= 400 / (0.80×0.65) = 769.23 kN

Ast= (Pn - 0.85 f’cAg) / (fy- 0.85 f’(769.23 - 0.85'2'25'30) / (50 - 0.85'2)

Ast< 0

So it does not verify minimum amount (rmin= 0.01) and the effective area is calculated
necessary reduction to withstand "P"uwith a minimum amount:

Reduced Effective Area = Pn/ [0.85 f’c+r(fy- 0.85 f’c)] =

Effective Reduced Area = 769.23 /[0.85´2 + 0.01´(50 - 0.85´2)] =

Reduced Effective Area = 352.37 cm2< gA

/2 = 375 cm2

So a longitudinal reinforcement equal to the minimum quantity applied to the half is adopted.
of the gross area of the section:

Ast0.01 × 375 = 3.75 cm2

The following armor is adopted: Ast= 4 db12 = 4.52 cm2 (dif. +20.5%)
Stirrups: db6 c / 19 cm

Armed: Str. db6 with 19cm

4db12
0.30 m

0.25 m

Conclusions

When problems arise where the concrete area is fixed and the resulting quantity
If the calculation is less than the minimum, the reinforcement area can be determined as follows
form:

Ast min= max ( 0.01'Pn/ [0.85 f’c + 0.01 (fy- 0.85 f’c] ; 0.01 A/2)
g =

Ast min= max ( Pn/ [84.15 f’c+ fy0.005 Ag)

A.14) Calculate 'Pufor the following column

Materials: - Concrete: f'c20 MPa

Steel: fy= 500 MPa

Transversal Section: - Circular with a diameter of 0.50 m

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SOLVED EXERCISES COLUMNS

Stirrups: 0.02 m
8 mm
20 cm

Longitudinal Armor: - 8 db16 = 16.08 cm2

Str.db8 with 20cm

Armed:

0.50 m 8db16

Resolution:

The spacing of the stirrups is greater than 8 cm, so it is not a braced column.

The diameter of the stirrups is greater than 6 mm, making it suitable. The spacing of
stirrups also meet the regulatory requirements so the
calculation as a single column.

The geometric amount is: r = 16.08 / 1963.50 = 0.0082 so, in principle, not
verify minimum amount.

Since the amount is greater than 0.005 (Ast0.01 Ag/2), we will calculate 'Pufrom the
resistance produced by the minimum amount applied to the reduced effective area.

16.08 cm20.01 = 1608 cm2

Pn= 0.85 f’c(AgAst) + fyAst= 0.85´2´(1608 - 16.08) + 50´16.08 = 3510.26 kN

Pu=f0.80 Pn 0.65 × 0.80 × 3510.26 = 1825.34 kN

Conclusions

"A priori" it can be said that a column is not standard when its geometric quantity is
less than 0.005. For larger amounts, and applying the criterion of assuming that the reinforcement
The existing corresponds to the minimum amount of a reduced effective area, which is obtained:

Pu=f0.80 [0.85 f’c(100 AAst)+fyAst] = 0.52 (84.15 f’c+ fyAst

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SOLVED EXERCISES COLUMNS

B) ZUNCHED COLUMNS

B.1) Calculate the breaking load of the following column:

20 MPa
420 MPa
PD= PL
rec = 4 cm

Ag = px (80 cm)25026.5 cm2

Ac = px (72 cm)24071.5 cm2
8 db 25 = 39.27 cm2
Asp = dbe 12 = 1.13 cm2

As a first step, it must be verified that it is indeed a braced column, for that it
must comply:

rs³0.45 (Ag / Ac-1) f’c/ fy

rs= 4 Asp / (s x hc) = 4 x 1.13 cm2(5 cm x 72 cm) = 0.0126

0.0126³0.45 x (5026.5 cm24071.5 cm2- 1) x 2 kN/cm2/ 42 kN/cm2= 0.011, verify

therefore it is a braced column.

Pn = PU/ (0.85 xf) = PU/ (0.85 x 0.70)

Pn = 0.85 x f’c x (Ag – Ast) + fy x Ast

= 0.85 x 2 kN/cm2x (5026.5 cm2- 39.27 cm2) + 42 kN/cm2x 39.27 cm2

10127.6 kN = 1.2 PD+ 1.6 PLwith PD= PL

PD= 10127.6 kN / (1.2 + 1.6) = 3617 kN Þ PD= PL= 3617 kN

B.2) Calculate the minimum strap necessary for the following column to behave
like a zunchada:

25 Mpa
420 MPa

First, we verify that the amount in the column is within the regulatory limits:

Ag = px (30 cm)2707 cm / 42
8 db 16 = 16.08 cm2

Þ r = 16.08 / 707 = 0.022 (> 0.01 y < 0.08), it is correct.

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SOLVED EXERCISES COLUMNS

Now, if we calculate the reinforcement of the beam:

rs ³0.45 (A)gAc -1) f’c/ fy

Ac = px (22 cm)24 = 380.1 cm2

rs ³0.45 x (707 cm2380.1 cm2-1) x 2.5 kN/cm2/ 42 kN/cm20.023

rs= 0.023 = 4 Asp / (s x hc)

Þ Asp / s = rsx hc/ 4 = 0.023 x 22 cm / 4 = 12.65 cm2/m

The minimum regulatory diameter for straps is adopted, that is, 10 mm.

The separation is calculated as: s = 0.79 cm212.65 cm2/m = 0.062 m, therefore it is adopted:

10 c/ 6 cm

The previous separation verifies:

£8 cm
s ³2.5 cm
maximum size of coarse aggregate to be used

B.3) Project a simple column and a braced one, both with a circular section, for the
following conditions:

Materials: Concrete: f'c= 30 MPa

Steel fy= 420 MPa

Transversal Section: - To be determined

Stirrups: 0.04 m
Diameter: To be determined
Separation: To be determined

Longitudinal Armor: - To be determined

Request: - PD= 380 kN ; PL= 500 kN

Resolution:

For both solutions there will be: Pu= 1.2 PD+ 1.6 PL= 1.2´380 + 1.6´500 = 1256 kN

a) Simple Column:

Pn= Pu/ (0.80f) = 1256 / (0.80 × 0.65) = 2415 kN

A geometric amount "r= 0.02" is adopted, resulting in:

Ag= Pn/ [0.85 f’cy- 0.85 f’c)] = 2415 / [0.85 × 3 + 0.02 × (42 - 0.85 × 3)] =

Ag= 723.27 cm2

A circular column of 0.30 m in diameter is adopted, resulting in A.g= 706.86 cm2y

the armor is obtained as:

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SOLVED EXERCISES COLUMNS

Ast = (Pn - 0.85 f’c Ag) / (fy- 0.85 f’c-61.14

Ast15.52 cm2

For the longitudinal reinforcement, 8 d is adopted.b16 = 8´2.01 = 16.08 cm2

What leads to an amount: r = 16.08 / 706.86 = 0.023

Depending on the diameter of the longitudinal bars, a stirrup of 6 mm should be adopted.

in diameter with a separation equal to the smaller value between:

16 dblongitudinal 16'1.6 = 25.6 cm

48 dbe= 48´0.6 = 28.8 cm
smaller dimension column = 30 cm

that is, 26 cm.

Armed: Estr.db6 c/26cm

0.30 m
8db16

b) Zunched Column:

Pn= Pyou/ (0.85f)= 1256 / (0.85´0.70) = 2110.92 kN

The same concrete section is adopted as for the case of the simple column:

Ag706.86 cm2

Ast(Pn - 0.85 f’cAg) / (fy- 0.85 f’c(2110.92 - 0.85 * 3 * 706.86) / (42 - 0.85 * 3)

Ast= 7.81 cm2

which leads to an amount of 0.011 that is within the regulatory limits.

2
For such section the following is adopted: 8 db12 = 8x1.13 = 9.04 cm

The amount of strapping must verify:

rs³0.45 (Ag / Ac -1) f’c / fy= 0.45´(706.86 / 380.13 - 1)´30 / 420 = 0.02763

being in this case: Ac=p´hc24 = 380.13 cm2c= 30 - 2´4 = 22 cm

Remembering that:
2
/ . snoris=r
t=
a ls4
snh
aA
rc15.20
tspr/o (s
f deh cm
d ic /m
v)o r p remains
t on t xe t t upA
nI

The minimum regulatory diameter for straps is adopted, that is, 10 mm.

The separation is calculated as: s = 0.785 / 15.20 = 0.05 m = 5 cm

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SOLVED EXERCISES COLUMNS

The previous separation verifies:

£8 cm
s ³2.5 cm
maximum size of the coarse aggregate to be used

Armed: Zuncho db10 c/5cm

0.30 m 8 db12

c) Comparison (theoretical reinforcement weights)

The theoretical weight of reinforcement per meter of column will be compared. The weight per meter of a
steel bar with area As is equal to :

0.785 kg/m/cm2As (cm2).

For the simple column:

Longitudinal reinforcement: The weight of steel for longitudinal reinforcement, for one meter of column
okay, being Ast= 15.52 cm2

0.785 kg/cm215.5 cm21m = 12.17 kg/m

Transversal Armor (Stirrups): In this case, it is necessary to evaluate the length of the stirrups for a
column metro. Considering that the diameter of the stirrup shaft is 22cm, and adding
about 10cm to consider the anchorage of each stirrup, its length is equal to: p ´ 22cm + 10cm
= 79 cm; and per meter there are 1m / 0.26m = 3.85 stirrups. Thus:

Weight of stirrups = 0.785 kg/cm2/m´0.28 cm20.79m/brace 3.85 brace/m = 0.67 kg/m

è Total steel weight in the simple column: 12.84 kg/m

For the braced column:

Longitudinal reinforcement: The weight of the steel of longitudinal reinforcement, being Ast= 7.81 cm2es
equal to:

0.785 kg/cm2/m´7.81 cm21m = 6.13 kg/m

Transversal Reinforcement (band): In simplified terms, the section of the band will be evaluated (already
expressed in cm2with a length equal to the perimeter of the middle axis of the band, which is
22cm, that is, its length is equal to: p ´ 22cm = 69 cm; and then

Weight of stirrups = 0.785 kg/cm2/m'15.20 cm2/m´0.69m = 8.23 kg/m

è Total weight of steel in the braced column: 14.36 kg/m

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SOLUTION EXERCISES COLUMNS

As can be seen, for the conditions of the example, the braced column
it has a higher steel consumption than the simple column. This is due to the particular
approach that the regulations have regarding this type of columns and their safety (not
It is allowed for the bracing to increase the resistant capacity of the column - it only compensates.
the loss of resistance caused by flaking - and there are no coefficients for
reduction of resistance differentiated between peeling and breaking of the column
zunchada).

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SOLVED EXERCISES COLUMNS

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1) CIRSOC 201-05

2) MODEL CODE CEB-FIP 1990

3) MODEL CODE CEB-FIP 1978

4) ACI 318-99, ACI 318R-99: Building Code Requirements for Structural

Concrete (ACI 318-99) and Commentary (318R-99)

5) CIRSOC 201: Project, Calculation, and Execution of Concrete Structures

Reinforcement and Prestressing

6) Argentine Project for Concrete Structures Regulations

(PRAEH)

7) LIMA, Luis Julián: Simple normal requests, traction and

compression.

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