Behavior of high strength self compacted concrete deep beams with web openings

Deep beams transfer loads through loading face to supports in an inclined direction and mostly fail in shear. These beams are with a small span-to-depth ratio. Openings are used to facilitate the passage of utility pipes and service ducts. However, it will cause increasing in cracking and deflection and reduction in the ultimate load of the loaded deep beam. This research investigates and analyses the behavior of reinforced high-strength self-compacted concrete deep beams (RHSSCC) with web opening. Sixty-one deep beams were cast to investigate the effect of size (75 mm and 50 mm two opening's size were used), shape (square, circular and relatively new type "rhombus" shape) and location of openings with respect to a neutral axis (upper or lower N.A.) and with respect to the load path (in or out load path) on the behavior of RHSSCC deep beam with three types of web openings (symmetrical, unsymmetrical and centered web openings). Load-deflection curves, crack pattern, absorbed energy and crack pattern for the tested beams is discussed.