Modelling of structural failures in RC beam elements using ANSYS

Abstract

Simulation of failures using Abstract: laboratory experiments will be expensive and time consuming. To overcome these problems making use of finite element methods and advantages of computational software are key considerations. However, proper simulation of structural behaviour is a key factor in the use of FEM analysis. Worldwide a lot of research studies have given attention in this context but in Sri Lanka, concern on this point is considerably less. This paper contains: identification of type of elements like solid-65 and link-8, material models, boundary conditions and other relevant modelling parameters suitable to model structural failures in RC structural elements using ANSYS. Further it seeks to identify the suitability of discrete modelling of reinforcement model. The initial crack formation, failure load and load-displacement curve of beams from laboratory experiments are compared with the nonlinear finite element models using ANSYS to ensure accuracy of model parameters. The accuracy of model is further checked with mesh density and analysis type by conducting different model analysis by changing the parameters and the observations are reported. This paper concludes simulation of flexural failure can be done using ANSYS by small displacement static analysis (equilibrium equations are constructed based on initial position) or large displacement static analysis (equilibrium equations are constructed based on deflected position). However simulation of shear failure is a difficult task since ANSYS has limitations in modelling shear failure using large displacement analysis or small displacement analysis. Further difficulty to converge a solution can be reduced by large displacement static analysis.