Transfer beams on high seismic zones

[Enhineyero]

Hi all, are transfer beams (say carrying 10 storeys) allowed in different seismic zones (low,moderate, and high)? I try to avoid using transfer beams as much as possible and I havent designed a structure situated in a seismic zone with transfer beams carrying many floors.

 

[chekre]

It is preferable not to use transfer in high seismic zones. however, if u cant manage without the transfer, u must multiply all the earthquake forces being transfered by an overstrength factor. This factor should be applied to all the discontinued elements (transfer beam and the columns supporting this beam). There are also conditions on the reinforcement detailing - refer to chapter 21 of the ACI.

Hope this helps

 

[Enhineyero]

Thanks chekre, do you have any particular literature that discusses this in detail?

 

[chekre]

Sorry, i dont have anything in mind right now. But the ACI is very clear regarding this issue.