Finite element analysis of RC beams using static experimental data to predict static and dynamic behaviors

Area of Science:

• Structural Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Reinforced concrete (RC) beams are crucial structural elements.
• Understanding their dynamic and static behavior under load is essential for safety and design.
• Existing research often focuses on either static or dynamic analysis separately.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively compare the dynamic and static forces in RC beams.
• To validate experimental findings with finite element analysis (FEA) results.
• To investigate the efficacy of various sensors in capturing beam deflection.

Main Methods:

• Experimental testing of 1m x 150mm x 150mm RC beams under monotonic two-point loading using a universal testing machine (UTM).
• Deflection measurement at three locations (S1-S3) using force resisting sensors (FRS), flex sensors (FLS), MEMS accelerometers, and Piezoelectric sensors.
• Finite Element Analysis (FEA) using ANSYS 16.0 software for comparison with experimental data, including dynamic analysis with mode shape and harmonic response evaluation.

Main Results:

• Experimental deflection measurements were closely correlated with FEA results.
• Dynamic analysis provided insights into mode shapes and harmonic responses.
• The study demonstrated the reliability of the chosen sensors for capturing structural responses.
• FEA results effectively simulated the static and dynamic behavior of RC beams.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully validated FEA results against experimental data for RC beams.
• The findings offer a robust approach for analyzing the dynamic and static behavior of RC structures.
• This research contributes valuable insights for structural engineers and material scientists.
• The close agreement between sensor outcomes and FEA enhances confidence in computational modeling for structural health monitoring.