allowable unsupported length for blockwork wall

[salalahmaroon]

Hello Engineers;

Please help need info on how much is the allowable unsupported length for CMU blockwork wall? Is there a clause in an international standard which could pertain to this requirement? Thanks.

 

[msquared48]

Depends on how far the top bond beam, or additional bond beams, can span horizontally with the designed reinforcing.

Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)

 

[concretemasonry]

Is it a retaining wall? Usually there are no limitations on the length since they are a continuous wall designed to resist the lateral loads and pilasters or thicken sections are usually avoided.

If is for an above grade structure, usually the wall length requires some control joint for movement (moisture, temperature and some structural loads) based on the materials and conditions (by code). This provides a documented length that can be extended by good engineering.

Dick

Engineer and international traveler interested in construction techniques, problems and proper design.

 

[KootK]

Depending on the applicable code, it's usually in the neighbourhood of KL/r<30. More restrictive for high seismic shear walls etc.

I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.