is a closer bar spacing beneficial?
is a closer bar spacing beneficial?
(OP)
I'm designing a precast wall (which actually performs more like a beam) as protection for equipment from a crane magnet. My steel on the exterior face will be #7 @ 10" c/c horizontally for negative moment and #4 @ 18" vertically for shrinkage. But I was wondering whether or not there would be much benefit from spacing either or both of these bars closer together. For instance, is 6" going to offer much benefit over spacing the bars at 10"? My thinking is that the closer spacing will help keep large chunks of concrete from breaking loose. I know the panels will get beat up and need replacing, but I want to make sure they last as long as possible.





RE: is a closer bar spacing beneficial?
RE: is a closer bar spacing beneficial?
It sounds like what you are looking for is local impact resistance. Then I’d go with the steel (or glass) fiber idea.
Another idea you might want to consider is a sacrificial layer of concrete (or wood or other material) that is easy to change and protects the structural core.
Rick Kitson MBA P.Eng
Construction Project Management
From conception to completion
www.kitsonengineering.com
RE: is a closer bar spacing beneficial?