Modern construction requires reinforced concrete columns because they give buildings and structures stability and strength. These columns are perfect for supporting loads and withstanding a variety of stresses because they combine the tensile strength of steel with the compressive strength of concrete.
Reinforced concrete columns come in a variety of forms, each intended to fulfill a particular purpose. Tie columns, spiral columns, and composite columns are common varieties. While spiral columns use helical reinforcement for added strength, tied columns have steel reinforcement bars tied together. Composite columns combine various materials to improve their performance.
The process of building reinforced concrete columns requires exact planning and execution. First, the column must be designed to satisfy structural specifications. Formwork is erected to shape the concrete after the design is complete. After inserting steel reinforcement bars inside the formwork, concrete is poured and given time to cure, creating a sturdy column.
Anyone working on construction projects needs to understand the types, applications, and construction techniques of reinforced concrete columns. These columns add to the overall durability and safety of the structures in addition to supporting their weight. Understanding how these columns operate can give you important insights into the construction industry, regardless of whether you are a builder, engineer, or enthusiast.
| Purpose | Reinforced concrete columns provide structural support, transferring loads from beams and slabs to the foundation. They are crucial for stability and strength in buildings and other structures. |
| Types | Circular, square, and rectangular columns are common. Each type serves specific architectural and structural needs. Circular columns are often used for aesthetics and even load distribution, while square and rectangular columns are more common for practical construction purposes. |
| Construction Technology | The construction process involves placing steel reinforcement bars in a mold, followed by pouring concrete around them. Once set, the combination of concrete"s compressive strength and steel"s tensile strength ensures durability and support. Proper curing is essential to achieve the desired strength and longevity. |
Modern construction requires reinforced concrete columns as structural components because they give buildings and other structures stability and strength. They are essential to the longevity and safety of any construction project because they are made to withstand a variety of forces and loads. There are various kinds of columns made of reinforced concrete, and each has a distinct function based on the needs and specifications of the building. It’s critical to comprehend the construction technology underlying these columns to guarantee their proper construction and ability to carry out their intended functions. To give a thorough understanding of reinforced concrete columns’ function in construction, this article examines their types, purposes, and building methods.
Purpose, properties and characteristics
A reinforced concrete frame is built on concrete columns. These buildings are oriented vertically. These metal products can also support beams, trays, arches, and crossbars. First of all, multi-story buildings and low-rise private homes are constructed using reinforced concrete columns. Columns made of reinforced concrete have a cross-section that is smaller than their length and stand vertically.
What are the purposes of a column made of reinforced concrete? Its primary purpose is to disperse the weight evenly across the ground. The columns are exhibited as metal rods that form the foundation of the frame made of reinforced concrete. Furthermore, the entire house’s structure is stabilized and maintained by these products.
Columns made of reinforced concrete can occasionally serve as decorative pieces. They serve as an open support for balconies and are positioned on the facade for aesthetic purposes.
Important information: GOST regulations 18979-90 and 25628-90 govern reinforced concrete columns for multistory buildings and single-story buildings, respectively. They are constructed of dense concrete in factories. Plasticizers are also added to the mixture to improve the product’s durability.
Concrete column and its technical characteristics
The most frequently utilized subparagraphs in the explanation of monolithic columns are the following ones:
- bearing capacity (its calculation is made depending on the type of building);
- increased resistance to mechanical damage and deformation;
- maintaining stability;
- has resistance to low temperatures;
- moisture resistance.
In the process of manufacturing reinforced concrete, reinforced concrete is used. This gives the product the required vertical shape. Three components make up a column made of reinforced concrete:
IMPORTANT: Industrial buildings, cellars, and basements use columns with strong load-bearing capacities.
Types of products
Different types of reinforced concrete columns exist, depending on the type of construction. They are split up into two groups:
- Those that will serve as a support for the entire building.
- To maintain the integrity and stability of individual elements.
According to production type, there are:
- Monolithic. They are manufactured directly on the construction site where they will be used. A frame for them is pre-installed. Monolithic ones are distinguished by increased strength, they are used as a load-bearing element. But they are difficult to pour and it takes a long time to wait for the mixture to harden completely.
- Precast reinforced concrete columns. Their production is carried out only in specialized workshops. The cost is much lower than monolithic ones, in addition, precast ones are easy to transport. They are assembled at the construction site. Precast reinforced concrete columns do not have high strength, therefore they are used for the construction of single-story houses.
- Precast-monolithic structures. They have high strength, they took this characteristic from the monolithic type. Therefore, in construction they are used to create floors for multi-story buildings, bridges. If necessary, reinforced concrete products can be divided into component parts, which is more convenient for transportation.
Products made of reinforced concrete come in square, round, and straight section configurations. What role do they play based on where they are installed?
- lower ones – for basements/first floors;
- middle ones – for installation of middle floors;
- upper ones – for installation of upper floors in high-rise buildings;
- jointless – for one- and two-story buildings.
Marking columns:
- K – for construction without bridge supports;
- KS – for buildings with a roof;
- KKS – for installation with lower sagging belts;
- KKP – for constructing a frame with bridge supports;
- KF – for creating half-timbered wall fences (auxiliary frame designed for fastening enclosing structures);
- KR – used in the construction of buildings with manual support cranes;
- KK – for the construction of frame buildings with a large load and area;
- KDP – for constructing the frame of a large-sized building with bridge supports;
- KD – universal models for frames of various purposes with support electric cranes.
GOST-recommended sizes for reinforced concrete columns in industrial buildings:
- length – from 2550 mm to 13720 mm;
- height – from 400 mm to 600 mm;
- width – from 400 mm to 60 mm.
Advantages of reinforced concrete products
It is also worthwhile to take into account the advantages of employing products made of reinforced concrete. These are the following:
- increased durability;
- high fire resistance;
- hygienic;
- vibrational and dynamic creep (deformation from external loads);
- shrinkage is observed upon complete hardening;
- raw materials availability makes it economical;
- material durability;
- low operating costs.
Columns made of reinforced concrete are essential to contemporary building. They give buildings the stability and support they need, enabling engineers and architects to create structures with remarkable strength and height. These columns are a crucial part of construction projects because they are made to withstand a variety of loads and forces by combining the tensile strength of steel reinforcement with the compressive strength of concrete.
There are various varieties of columns made of reinforced concrete, and each has a special function. The design of a column, regardless of its shape—round, square, rectangular, or otherwise unusual—depends on the particular requirements of the building and its surroundings. Comprehending these distinct varieties facilitates the selection of the appropriate column for the task, guaranteeing construction efficiency and safety.
The technology used to build columns made of reinforced concrete has advanced dramatically. From the mixing of the concrete to the installation of the steel reinforcement, modern methods prioritize accuracy and excellence. Technological and material advancements have increased these columns’ resilience and sustainability, making them more dependable and eco-friendly. Through the mastery of these construction techniques, builders are able to produce long-lasting structures.
