Design of Rc columns

Chapter1:
Introduction:
1.1General
A column is defined as a compression member, the effective length of which exceeds three times
the least lateral dimension. Compression members, whose lengths do not exceed three times the
least lateral dimension, may be made of plain concrete. A column forms a very important
component of a structure. Columns support beams which in turn support walls and slabs. It
should be realized that the failure of a column results in the collapse of the structure. The design
of a column should therefore receive importance.
A column is a vertical structural member supporting axial compressive loads, with or without
moments. The cross-sectional dimensions of a column are generally considerably less than its
height. Columns support vertical loads from the floors and roof and transmit these loads to the
foundations.
The more general terms compression members and members subjected to combined axial
load and bending are sometimes used to refer to columns, walls, and members in concrete
trusses or frames. These may be vertical, inclined, or horizontal. A column is a special case of a
compression member that is vertical. Stability effects must be considered in the design of
compression member

1.1 a) Loads on columns:

1)Live load on floor supported by column
2)Dead load of floor and beams supported by the column
3)Self weight of column

1.2 Objective:
To make a feasible study on definition of column and types of column
To study how to design different types of columns using guide lines of IS-456:2000 and
SP:16

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Chapter 2
General terminologies used in column design

2.1Unsupported Length
The unsupported length, 1, of a compression member shall be taken as the clear distance
between end restraints except that
a) in flat slab construction, it shall be clear distance between the floor and the lower
extremity of the capital, the drop panel or slab whichever is the least.
b) in beam and slab construction, it shall be the clear distance between the floor and the
underside of the shallower beam framing into the columns in each direction at the next higher
floor level.
c) in columns restrained laterally by struts, it shall be the clear distance between consecutive
struts in each vertical plane, provided that to be an adequate support, two such struts shall
meet the columns at approximately the same level and the angle between vertical planes
through the struts shall not vary more than 30 from a right angle. Such struts shall be of
adequate dimensions and shall have sufficient anchorage to restrain the member against
lateral deflection.
d) in columns restrained laterally by struts or beams, with brackets used at the junction, it
shall be the clear distance between the floor and the lower edge of the bracket, provided that
the bracket width equals that of the beam strut and is at least half that of the column

2.2Slenderness Limits for Columns :The unsupported length between end restraints shall not
exceed 60 times the least lateral dimension of a column. If, in any given plane, one end of a
column is unrestrained, its unsupported length, 1, shall not exceed 100b2/D
where
b = width.of that cross-section, and
D= depth of the cross-section measured in the plane under consideration

2.3Effective length: The vertical distance between the points of inflection of the compression
member in the buckled configuration in a plane is termed as effective length le of that
compression member in that plane. The effective length is different from the unsupported length
l of the member, though it depends on the unsupported length and the type of end restraints. IS
456 stipulates the effective lengths of compression members (vide Annex E of IS 456). This
parameter is needed in classifying and designing the compression members.

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 Design of Rc columns

Table1:Effective length of compression member.

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Chapter3
Classification of columns

3.1 A column may be classified based on different criteria such as:

3.1.1. Based on shape
Rectangle
Square
Circular
Polygon
L type
T type
+ type

3.1.2. Based on slenderness ratio or height

Short column and Long column or Short and Slender Compression Members
A compression member may be considered as short when both the slenderness ratios namely
lex/D and ley/b are less than 12: Where
lex= effective length in respect of the major axis, D= depth in respect of the major axis,
ley= effective length in respect of the minor axis, and b = width of the member.
It shall otherwise be considered as a slender or long compression member.
The great majority of concrete columns are sufficiently stocky (short) that slenderness can be
ignored. Such columns are referred to as short columns. Short column generally fails by
crushing of concrete due to axial force. If the moments induced by slenderness effects
weaken a column appreciably, it is referred to as a slender column or a long column. Long
columns generally fail by bending effect than due to axial effect. Long column carry less load
compared to long column.

3.1.3. Based on pattern of lateral reinforcement

Tied columns with ties as laterals
columns with Spiral steel as laterals or spiral columns
Composite columns

Majority of columns in any buildings are tied columns. In a tied column the longitudinal bars
are tied together with smaller bars at intervals up the column. Tied columns may be square,
rectangular, L-shaped, circular, or any other required shape. Occasionally, when high strength
and/or high ductility are required, the bars are placed in a circle, and the ties are replaced by a
bar bent into a helix or spiral. Such a column, called a spiral column. Spiral columns are
generally circular, although square or polygonal shapes are sometimes used. The spiral acts to
restrain the lateral expansion of the column core under high axial loads and, in doing so,
delays the failure of the core, making the column more ductile. Spiral columns are used more
extensively in seismic regions. If properly designed, spiral column carry 5% extra load at
failure compared to similar tied column.
Composite columns: The main longitudinal reinforcement of the composite columns consists of
structural steel sections or pipes with or without longitudinal bars (Fig.20.21.2c and d).

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Figure1:Tied RC column and spiral Rc column

4. Based on type of loading

Axially loaded column or centrally or concentrically loaded column (Pu)
A column subjected to axial load and unaxial bending (Pu + Mux) or (P + Muy)
A column subjected to axial load and biaxial bending (Pu + Mux + Muy)

Figure2: Plan of a RC rigid frame

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 Design of Rc columns

Figure shows the plan view of a reinforced concrete rigid frame having columns and inter-
connecting beams in longitudinal and transverse directions. From the knowledge of structural
analysis it is well known that the bending moments on the left and right of columns for every
longitudinal beam will be comparable as the beam is continuous. Similarly, the bending
moments at the two sides of columns for every continuous transverse beam are also comparable
(neglecting small amounts due to differences of l1, l2, l3 and b1, b2, b3, b4). Therefore, all internal
columns (C1a to C1f) will be designed for axial force only. The side columns (C2a to C2j) will
have axial forces with uniaxial bending moment, while the four corner columns (C3a to C3d)
shall have axial forces with bi-axial bending moments. Thus, all internal columns (C1a to C1f),
side columns(C2a to C2j) and corner columns (C3a to C3d) are the columns of type (i), (ii) and
(iii), respectively.

It is worth mentioning that pure axial forces in the inside columns is a rare case. Due to rigid
frame action, lateral loadings and practical aspects of construction, there will be bending
moments and horizontal shear in all the inside columns also. Similarly, side columns and corner
columns will have the column shear along with the axial force and bending moments in one or
both directions, respectively. The effects of shear are usually neglected as the magnitude is very
small. Moreover, the presence of longitudinal and transverse reinforcement is sufficient to resist
the effect of column shear of comparatively low magnitude. The effect of some minimum
bending moment, however, should be taken into account in the design even if the column is
axially loaded. Accordingly, cls. 39.2 and 25.4 of IS 456 prescribes the minimum eccentricity for
the design of all columns. In case the actual eccentricity is more than the minimum, that should
be considered in the design.

Figure3:Different loading situatons in column

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5. Based on materials
Timber, stone, masonry, RCC, PSC, Steel, aluminium , composite column.

3.2 Behavior of Tied and Spiral Columns

Figure shows a portion of the core of a spiral column. Under a compressive load, the concrete in
this column shortens longitudinally under the stress and so, to satisfy Poissons ratio, it expands
laterally. In a spiral column, the lateral expansion of the concrete inside the spiral (referred to as
the core) is restrained by the spiral. This stresses the spiral in tension. For equilibrium, the
concrete is subjected to lateral compressive stresses. In a tied column in a non seismic region, the
ties are spaced roughly the width of the column apart and, as a result, provide relatively little
lateral restraint to the core. Outward pressure on the sides of the ties due to lateral expansion of
the core merely bends them outward, developing an insignificant hoop-stress effect. Hence,
normal ties have little effect on the strength of the core in a tied column. They do, however, act
to reduce the unsupported length of the longitudinal bars, thus reducing the danger of buckling of
those bars as the bar stress approaches yield. load deflection diagrams for a tied column and a
spiral column subjected to axial loads is shown in figure. The initial parts of these diagrams are
similar. As the maximum load is reached, vertical cracks and crushing develop in the concrete
shell outside the ties or spiral, and thisconcrete spalls off.
When this occurs in a tied column, the capacity of the core that remains is less than the load on
the column. The concrete core is crushed, and the reinforcement buckles outward between ties.
This occurs suddenly, without warning, in a brittle manner. When the shell spalls off a spiral
column, the column does not fail immediately because the strength of
the core has been enhanced by the triaxial stresses resulting from the effect of the spiral
reinforcement. As a result, the column can undergo large deformations, eventually reaching a
second maximum load, when the spirals yield and the column finally collapses. Such a failure is
much more ductile than that of a tied column and gives warning of the impending failure, along
with possible load redistribution to other members. Due to this, spiral column carry little more
load than the tied column to an extent of about 5%. Spiral columns are used when ductility is
important or where high loads make it economical to utilize the extra strength.
Both columns are in the same building and have undergone the same deformations. The tied
column has failed completely, while the spiral column, although badly damaged, is still
supporting a load. The very minimal ties were inadequate to confine the core concrete. Had
the column ties been detailed according to ACI Code, the column will perform better as shown.

3.3 Specifications for covers and reinforcement in column

For a longitudinal reinforcing bar in a column nominal cover shall in any case not be less
than 40 mm, or less than the diameter of such bar. In the case of columns of minimum
dimension of 200 mm or under, whose reinforcing bars do not exceed 12 mm, a nominal
cover of 25 mm may be used. For footings minimum cover shall be 50 mm.
Nominal Cover in mm to meet durability requirements based on exposure Mild 20, Moderate 30,
Severe 45, Very severe 50, Extreme 75 Nominal cover to meet specified period of fire resistance
for all fire rating 0.5 to 4 hours is 40 mm for columns only

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Chapter4
Reinforcement Specifications as per IS: 456-2000:

4.1Longitudinal reinforcement
1. The cross-sectional area of longitudinal reinforcement, shall be not less than 0.8
percent nor more than 6 percent of the gross cross sectional area of the column.
2. NOTE - The use of 6 percent reinforcement may involve practical difficulties in
placing and compacting of concrete; hence lower percentage is recommended. Where
bars from the columns below have to be lapped with those in the column under
consideration, the percentage of steel shall usually not exceed 4 percent.
3. In any column that has a larger cross-sectional area than that required to support the
load, the minimum percentage of steel shall be based upon the area of concrete
required to resist the direct stress and not upon the actual area.
4. The minimum number of longitudinal bars provided in a column shall be four in
rectangular columns and six in circular columns.
5. The bars shall not be less than 12 mm in diameter
6. A reinforced concrete column having helical reinforcement shall have at least six bars
of longitudinal reinforcement within the helical reinforcement.
7. In a helically reinforced column, the longitudinal bars shall be in contact with the
helical reinforcement and equidistant around its inner circumference.
8. Spacing of longitudinal bars measured along the periphery of the column shall not
exceed 300 mm.
9. In case of pedestals in which the longitudinal reinforcement is not taken in account in
strength calculations, nominal longitudinal reinforcement not less than 0.15 percent of
the cross-sectional area shall be provide

4.2Transverse reinforcement
A reinforced concrete compression member shall have transverse or helical reinforcement so
disposed that every longitudinal bar nearest to the compression face has effective lateral
support against buckling.
The effective lateral support is given by transverse reinforcement either in the form of
circular rings capable of taking up circumferential tension or by polygonal links (lateral ties)
with internal angles not exceeding 135. The ends of the transverse reinforcement shall be
properly anchored.
4.2.1Arrangement of transverse reinforcement
1)If the longitudinal bars are not spaced more than 75 mm on either side, transverse
reinforcement need only to go round corner and alternate bars for the purpose of providing
effective lateral supports (Ref. IS:456).

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Figure4:Arrangement of Transverse reinforecement when longitudinal bars are spaced @75mm

2)f the longitudinal bars spaced at a distance of not exceeding 48 times the diameter of the tieare
effectively tied in two directions, additional longitudinal bars in between these bars need to be
tied in one direction by open ties (Ref. IS:456).

Figure5:Arrangement of Transverse reinforecement when longitudinal bars are spaced @48

3)Where the longitudinal reinforcing bars in a compression member are placed in more thanone
row, : transverse reinforcement is provided for the outer-most row is provided as mentioned
above and no bar of the inner row is closer to the nearest compression face than three times the
diameter of the largest bar in the inner row (see Fig. 3).

Figure6:Arrangement of Transverse reinforecement when longitudinal bars are placed in more

than one row

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 Design of Rc columns

4)Where the longitudinal bars in a compression member are grouped (not in contact) and each
group adequately tied as mentioned.

Figure7:Arrangement of Transverse reinforecement when longitudinal bars are placed in groups.

4.3 Pitch and diameter of lateral ties and helical reinforcement:

1) Pitch-The pitch of transverse reinforcement shall be not more than the least of the
following distances:
i) The least lateral dimension of the compression members;
ii) Sixteen times the smallest diameter of the longitudinal reinforcement bar to be tied; and
iii) 300 mm.
2) Diameter-The diameter of the polygonal links or lateral ties shall be not less than
onefourth of the diameter of the largest longitudinal bar, and in no case less than 6 mm.
Helical reinforcement
3) Pitch-Helical reinforcement shall be of regular formation with the turns of the helix spaced
evenly and its ends shall be anchored properly by providing one and a half extra turns of the
spiral bar. Where an increased load on the column on the strength of the helical reinforcement is
allowed for, the pitch of helical turns shall be not more than 7.5 mm, nor more than onesixth of
the core diameter of the column, nor less than 25 mm, nor less than three times the diameter of
the steel bar forming the helix.
4)Diameter:same as in lateral ties.

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Chapter5
LIMIT STATE OF COLLAPSE: COMPRESSION
5.1Assumptions
1. The maximum compressive strain in concrete in axial compression is taken as 0.002.
2. The maximum compressive strain at the highly compressed extreme fibre in concrete
subjected to axial compression and bending and when there is no tension on the
section shall be 0.0035 minus 0.75 times the strain at the least compressed extreme
fibre.
In addition the following assumptions of flexure are also required
3. Plane sections normal to the axis remain plane after bending.
4. The maximum strain in concrete at the outermost compression fibre is taken as 0.0035
in bending.
5. The relationship between the compressive stress distribution in concrete and the strain
in concrete may be assumed to be rectangle, trapezoid, parabola or any other shape
which results in prediction of strength in substantial agreement with the results of test.
6. An acceptable stress strain curve is given in IS:456-200. For design purposes, the
compressive strength of concrete in the structure shall be assumed to be 0.67 times the
characteristic strength. The partial safety factor y of 1.5 shall be applied in addition to
this.
7. The tensile strength of the concrete is ignored.
8. The stresses in the reinforcement are derived from representative stress-strain curve
for the type of steel used. Typical curves are given in IS:456-2000. For design
purposes the partial safety factor equal to 1.15 shall be applied.

5.2Minimum eccentricity
As per IS:456-2000, all columns shall be designed for minimum eccentricity, equal to the
unsupported length of column/ 500 plus lateral dimensions/30, subject to a minimum of 20
mm. Where bi-axial bending is considered, it is sufficient to ensure that eccentricity exceeds
the minimum about one axis at a time.

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Chapter6
Design load:

6.1 Short Axially Loaded Members in Compression

6.1.1Compression members with lateral tie reinforcement
The member shall be designed by considering the assumptions given in 39.1 and the
minimum eccentricity. When the minimum eccentricity as per 25.4 does not exceed 0.05
times the lateral dimension, the members may be designed by the following equation;
Pu = 0.4 fck Ac + 0.67 fy Asc
Pu = axial load on the member,
fck = characteristic compressive strength of the concrete,
Ac = area of concrete,
fy = characteristic strength of the compression reinforcement, and
As = area of longitudinal reinforcement for columns.

6.1.2Compression Members with Helical Reinforcement

The strength of compression members with helical reinforcement satisfying the requirement
of IS: 456 shall be taken as 1.05 times the strength of similar member with lateral ties.
The ratio of the volume of helical reinforcement to the volume of the core shall not be less
than
Vhs / Vc > 0.36 (Ag/Ac 1) fck/fy
Ag = gross area of the section,
Ac = area of the core of the helically reinforced column measured to the outside diameter of
the helix,
fck = characteristic compressive strength of the concrete, and
fy = characteristic strength of the helical reinforcement but not exceeding 415 N/mm2

6.2Members Subjected to Combined Axial Load and Uni-axial Bending

Use of Non-dimensional Interaction Diagrams as Design Aids
Design Charts (for Uniaxial Eccentric Compression) in SP-16
The design Charts (non-dimensional interaction curves) given in the Design Handbook, SP :
16 cover the following three cases of symmetrically arranged reinforcement :
(a) Rectangular sections with reinforcement distributed equally on two sides (Charts 27-38):
the two sides refer to the sides parallel to the axis of bending; there are no inner rows of
bars, and each outer row has an area of 0.5As this includes the simple 4bar configuration.
(b) Rectangular sections with reinforcement distributed equally on four sides (Charts 39 50):
two outer rows (with area 0.3As each) and four inner rows (with area 0.1As each)
have been considered in the calculations ; however, the use of these Charts can be
extended, without significant error, to cases of not less than two inner rows (with a minimum
area 0.3As in each outer row).
(c) Circular column sections (Charts 51 62): the Charts are applicable for circular sections
with at least six bars (of equal diameter) uniformly spaced circumferentially.
Corresponding to each of the above three cases, there are as many as 12 Charts available
covering the 3 grades of steel (Fe 250, Fe 415, Fe 500), with 4 values of d1/ D ratio for each
grade (namely 0.05, .0.10, 0.15, 0.20). For intermediate values of d1/ D, linear interpolation

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may be done. Each of the 12 Charts of SP-16 covers a family of non-dimensional design
interaction curves with p/fck values ranging from 0.0 to 0.26.From this, percentage of steel (p)
can be found. Find the area of steel and provide the required number of bars with proper
arrangement of steel as shown in the chart.

Figure 8:Interaction curve

6.2.1Salient Points on the Interaction Curve

The salient points, marked 1 to 5 on the interaction curve correspond to the failure strain
profiles, marked 1 to 5 in the above figure.
1)The point 1 in figure corresponds to the condition of axial loading with e = 0. For this

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case of pure axial compression.

2)The point 2 in figure corresponds to the condition of axial loading with the mandatory
minimum eccentricity e min prescribed by the Code.
3)The point 3 in figure corresponds to the condition xu= D, i.e., e = eD
For e < eD the entire section is under compression and the neutral axis is located outside the
section(xu> D), with 0.002 < _cu< 0.0035.
For e > eD, the NA is located within the section(xu< D) and _cu= 0.0035 at the highly
compressed edge.
The point 4 in figure corresponds to the balanced failure condition, with e = eb
and xu= xu, b The design strength values for this balanced failure condition are denoted as
Pub and Mub
The point 5 in figure corresponds to a pure bending condition (e = _, PuR= 0); the
resulting ultimate moment of resistance is denoted Muo and the corresponding NA
depth takes on a minimum value xu, min

.
6.2.2Procedure for using of Non-dimensional Interaction Diagrams as Design Aids to find
steel
Given: Size of column, Grade of concrete, Grade of steel (otherwise assume suitably)
Factored load and Factored moment
Assume arrangement of reinforcement: On two sides or on four sides
Assume moment due to minimum eccentricity to be less than the actual moment
Assume suitable axis of bending based on the given moment (xx or yy)
Assuming suitable diameter of longitudinal bars and suitable nominal cover
1. Find d1/D from effective cover d1
2. Find non dimensional parameters Pu/fckbD and Mu/fckbD2
3. Referring to appropriate chart from SP-16, find p/fck and hence the percentage of
reinforcement, p
4. Find steel from, As = p*bD/100
5. Provide proper number and arrangement for steel
6. Design suitable transverse steel
7. Provide neat sketch

6.3)Members Subjected to Combined Axial Load and Biaxial Bending

The resistance of a member subjected to axial force and biaxial bending shall be obtained on the
basis of assumptions given in IS:456 with neutral axis so chosen as to satisfy the
equilibrium of load and moments about two axes. Alternatively such members may be
designed by the following equation:
[Mux/Mux1]n + [Muy/Muy1] n1
where Mux and My = moments about x and y axes due to design loads,
Mux1 and My1 = maximum uni-axial moment capacity for an axial load of Pu bending about
x and y axes respectively, and n is related to Pu /Puz,
where Puz = 0.45 fck .Ac + 0.75 fy Asc
For values of Pu /Puz = 0.2 to 0.8, the values of _n vary linearly from 1 .0 to 2.0. For values
less than 0.2 and greater than 0.8, it is taken as 1 and 2 respectively

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NOTE -The design of member subject to combined axial load and uniaxial bending will
involve lengthy calculation by trial and error. In order to overcome these difficulties
interaction diagrams may be used. These have been prepared and published by BIS in SP:16
titled Design aids for reinforced concrete to IS 456-2000.

6.3.1 IS:456-2000 Code Procedure

1. Given Pu, Mux, Muy, grade of concrete and steel
2. Verify that the eccentricities ex= Mux/Pu and ey= Muy/Pu are not less than the corresponding
minimum eccentricities as per IS:456-2000
3. Assume a trial section for the column (square, rectangle or circular).
4. Determine Mux1 and Muy1, corresponding to the given Pu(using appropriate curve from
SP-16 design aids)
5. Ensure that Mux1 and M uy1 are significantly greater than Mux and Muy respectively;
otherwise, suitably redesign the section.
6. Determine Puz and hence n
7. Check the adequacy of the section using interaction equation. If necessary, redesign
the section and check again.

6.4 Slender Compression Members: The design of slender compression members shall be
based on the forces and the moments determined from an analysis of the structure, including the
effect of deflections on moments and forces. When the effects of deflections are not taken into
account in the analysis, additional moment given in 39.7.1 shall be taken into account in the
appropriate direction.

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Chapter7
Numerical examples

7.1Problems on short axially loaded columns:

1. Determine the load carrying capacity of a column of size 300 x 400 mm reinforced
with six rods of 20 mm diameter i.e, 6-#20. The grade of concrete and steel are M20
and Fe 415 respectively. Assume that the column is short.

Given:fck = 20 MPa, fy= 415 MPa

Step 1:Area of steel ASC = 6 x _ x 202/4 = 6 x 314 = 1884 mm2
Step 2:Percentage of steel = 100Asc/bD = 100x1884/300x400 = 1.57 %
Step 3:Area of concrete Ac = Ag Asc = 300 x 400 1884 = 118116 mm2
Step 4:Ultimate load carried by the column
Pu = 0.4 fck Ac + 0.67 fy Asc
=0.4x20x118116 + 0.67x415x1884
=944928 + 523846 = 1468774 N = 1468. 8 kN
Therefore the safe load on the column = 1468.8 /1.5 = 979.2 kN

Problem 2:
Design the reinforcement in a column of size 400 mm x 600 mm subjected to an axial load of
2000 kN under service dead load and live load. The column has an unsupported length of 4.0 m
and effectively held in position and restrained against rotation in both ends. Use M 25 concrete
and Fe 415 steel.
Solution 1:
Step 1: To check if the column is short or slender
Given l = 4000 mm, b = 400 mm and D = 600 mm. Table 28 of IS 456 = lex = ley = 0.65(l) = 2600
mm. So, we have
lex/D = 2600/600 = 4.33 < 12
ley/b = 2600/400 = 6.5 < 12 Hence, it is a short column
.
Step 2: Minimum eccentricity
ex min = Greater of (lex/500 + D/30) and 20 mm = 25.2 mm
ey min = Greater of (ley/500 + b/30) and 20 mm = 20 mm
0.05 D = 0.05(600) = 30 mm > 25.2 mm (= ex min)
0.05 b = 0.05(400) = 20 mm = 20 mm (= ey min)
Hence, the equation given in cl.39.3 of IS 456 (Eq.10.4) is applicable for the design here.
Step 3: Area of steel
Fro Eq.10.4, we have
Pu = 0.4 fck Ac + 0.67 fy Asc . (10.4)
3
3000(10 ) = 0.4(25){(400)(600) Asc} + 0.67(415) Asc
which gives,

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 Design of Rc columns
2
Asc = 2238.39 mm
2 2
Provide 6-20 mm diameter and 2-16 mm diameter rods giving 2287 mm (> 2238.39 mm ) and p
= 0.953 per cent, which is more than minimum percentage of 0.8 and less than maximum
percentage of 4.0. Hence, o.k.
Step 4: Lateral ties
The diameter of transverse reinforcement (lateral ties) is determined from cl.26.5.3.2 C-2 of IS
456 as not less than (i) /4 and (ii) 6 mm. Here, = largest bar diameter used as longitudinal
reinforcement = 20 mm. So, the diameter of bars used as lateral ties = 6 mm.
The pitch of lateral ties, as per cl.26.5.3.2 C-1 of IS 456, should be not more than the least of
(i) the least lateral dimension of the column = 400 mm

(ii) sixteen times the smallest diameter of longitudinal reinforcement bar to be tied =
16(16) = 256 mm

(iii) 300 mm
Let us use p = pitch of lateral ties = 250 mm. The arrangement of longitudinal and transverse
reinforcement of the column is shown in Fig.

Problem 3:
Design the column of Problem 1 employing the chart of SP-16.
Steps 1 and 2 are the same as those of Problem 1.
Step 3: Area of steel
3 2
Pu/Ag = 3000(10 )/(600)(400) = 12.5 N/mm
2
From the lower section of Chart 25 of SP-16, we get p = 0.95% when Pu/Ag = 12.5 N/mm and
2
concrete grade is M 25. This gives Asc = 0.95(400)(600)/100 = 2288 mm . The results of both the
problems are in good agreement. Marginally higher value of Asc while using the chart is due to
parallax error while reading the value from the chart. Here also, 6-20 mm diameter bars + 2-16
2 2
mm diameter bars (Asc provided = 2287 mm ) is o.k., though it is 1 mm less.

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Step 4 is the same as that of Problem 1. Figure 10.22.1, thus, is also the figure showing the
reinforcing bars (longitudinal and transverse reinforcement) of this problem (same column as
that of Problem 1).

Problem 3:
Design a circular column of 400 mm diameter with helical reinforcement subjected to an axial
load of 1500 kN under service load and live load. The column has an unsupported length of 3 m
effectively held in position at both ends but not restrained against rotation. Use M 25 concrete
and Fe 415 steel.
Step 1: To check the slenderness ratio
Given data are: unsupported length l = 3000 mm, D = 400 mm. Table 28 of Annex E of IS 456
gives effective length le = l = 3000 mm. Therefore, le/D = 7.5 < 12 confirms that it is a short
column.
Step 2: Minimum eccentricity
emin = Greater of (l/500 + D/30) or 20 mm = 20 mm
0.05 D = 0.05(400) = 20 mm
As per cl.39.3 of IS 456, emin should not exceed 0.05D to employ the equation given in that
clause for the design. Here, both the eccentricities are the same. So, we can use the equation
given in that clause of IS 456 i.e., Eq.10.8 for the design.
Step 3: Area of steel
From Eq.10.8, we have
Pu = 1.05(0.4 fck Ac + 0.67 fy Asc) (10.8)
A = A A = 125714.29 - A
c g sc sc
Substituting the values of Pu, fck, Ag and fy in Eq.10.8,
3
1.5(1500)(10 ) = 1.05{0.4(25)(125714.29 Asc) + 0.67(415) Asc}
2 2
we get the value of Asc = 3304.29 mm . Provide 11 nos. of 20 mm diameter bars (= 3455 mm ) as
longitudinal reinforcement giving p = 2.75%. This p is between 0.8 (minimum) and 4
(maximum) per cents. Hence o.k.
Step 4: Lateral ties
It has been mentioned in sec.10.22.4 that the pitch p of the helix determined from Eq.10.11
automatically takes care of the cl.39.4.1 of IS 456. Therefore, the pitch is calculated from
Eq.10.11 selecting the diameter of helical reinforcement from cl.26.5.3.2 d-2 of IS 456.
However, automatic satisfaction of cl.39.4.1 of IS 456 is also checked here for confirmation.
Diameter of helical reinforcement (cl.26.5.3.2 d-2) shall be not less than greater of (i) one-fourth
of the diameter of largest longitudinal bar, and (ii) 6 mm
Therefore, with 20 mm diameter bars as longitudinal reinforcement, the diameter of helical
reinforcement = 6 mm.
From Eq.10.11, we have
2
Pitch of helix p 11.1(Dc - sp) asp fy/(D - (10.11) ckcfD )2
2 2
where Dc = 400 40 40 = 320 mm, sp = 6 mm, asp = 28 mm , fy = 415 N/mm , D = 400 mm
2
and fck = 25 N/mm .

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 Design of Rc columns
2 2
So, p 11.1(320 6) (28) (415)/(400 320 ) (25) 28.125 mm
As per cl.26.5.3.2 d-1, the maximum pitch is the lesser of 75 mm and 320/6 = 53.34 mm and the
minimum pitch is lesser of 25 mm and 3(6) = 18 mm. We adopt pitch = 25 mm which is within
the range of 18 mm and 53.34 mm. So, provide 6 mm bars @ 25 mm pitch forming the helix.
Checking of cl. 39.4.1 of IS 456
The values of helical reinforcement and core in one loop are obtained from Eqs.10.8 and 9,
respectively. Substituting the values of Dc, sp, asp and pitch p in the above two equations, we
have
3
Volume of helical reinforcement in one loop = 27632 mm and
3
Volume of core in one loop = 2011428.571 mm .
Their ratio = 27632/2011428.571 = 0.0137375
0.36(Ag/Ac 1) (fck/fy) = 0.012198795
It is, thus, seen that the above ratio (0.0137375) is not less than 0.36(Ag/Ac 1) (fck/fy).
Hence, the circular column of diameter 400 mm has eleven longitudinal bars of 20 mm diameter
and 6 mm diameter helix with pitch p = 25 mm. The reinforcing bars are shown in Fig.

Design the reinforcement in a column of size 450 mm 600 mm, subject to an axial
load of 2000 kN under service dead and live loads. The column has an unsupported
length of 3.0m and its ends are held in position but not in direction. Use M 20
concrete and Fe 415 steel.
Solution:
Given: lu= 3000 mm, b= 450 mm, D = 600 mm, P =2000kN, M20, Fe415
Check for shortness: Ends are fixed. lex = ley = l = 3000 mm
lex /D= 3000/600 < 12, and ley /b = 3000/450< 12, Column is short
Check for minimum eccentricity:
In the direction of longer direction emin, x = lux/500 + D/30 = 3000/500 + 600/30 = 26 mm or
20mm whichever is greater.
emin, x = 26 mm < 0.05D = 0.05 x 600 =30 mm. O.K
In the direction of shorter direction
emin, y= luy/500 + b/30 = 3000/500 + 450/30 = 21 mm or 20mm whichever is greater.
emin, x = 21 mm < 0.05b = 0.05 x 450 =22.5 mm. O.K
Minimum eccentricities are within the limits and hence code formula for axially loaded short
columns can be used.
Factored Load Pu= service load partial load factor
= 2000 1.5 = 3000 kN

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 Design of Rc columns

Design of Longitudinal Reinforcement

Pu = 0.4 fck Ac + 0.67 fy Asc or
Pu = 0.4 fck Ac + (0.67 fy - 0.4fck) Asc
3000 103= 0.4 20 (450 600) + (0.67 4150.4 20)Asc
= 2160103+ 270.05Asc
Asc= (30002160) 103/270.05 = 3111 mm2
In view of the column dimensions (450 mm, 600 mm), it is necessary to place intermediate
bars, in addition to the 4 corner bars:
Provide 425_ at corners ie, 4 491 = 1964 mm2
and 420_ additional ie, 4 314 = 1256 mm2
Asc= 3220 mm2> 3111 mm2
p = (1003220) / (450600) = 1.192 > 0.8 (minimum steel), OK.
Design of transverse steel
Diameter of tie = diameter of main steel = 25/4 =6.25 mm or 6 mm, whichever is greater.
Provide 6 mm.
Spacing: < 300 mm, < 16 x 20 = 320 mm, < LLD = 450mm. Say 300 mm c/c
Thus provide ties 8mm @ 300 mm c/c

7.2 Problems on short axially loaded columns and uniaxial bending.

7. Determine the reinforcement to be provided in a square column subjected to
uniaxial bending with the following data:
Size of column 450 x 450 mm
Concrete mix M 25
Characteristic strength of steel 415 N/mm2
Factored load 2500 kN
Factored moment 200 kN.m
Arrangement of reinforcement:
(a) On two sides
(b) On four sides
Assume moment due to minimum eccentricity to be less than the actual moment
Assuming 25 mm bars with 40 mm cover,

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 Design of Rc columns

d = 40 + 12.5 = 52.5 mm
d1/D = 52.5/450- 0.12
Charts for d1/D = 0.15 will be used
Pu/fckbD = (2500 x 1000)/ (25 x 450 x 450) = 0.494
Mu/fckbD2 =200 x 106 /(25 x 450 x 4502) = 0.088
a) Reinforcement on two sides,
Referring to Chart 33,
p/fck = 0.09
Percentage of reinforcement,
p = 0.09 x 25 = 2.25 %
As = p bD/100 = 2.25 x 450 x 450/100
= 4556 mm2
b) Reinforcement on four sides
from Chart 45,
p/fck = 0.10
p = 0.10 x 25 = 2.5 %
As = 2.5 x 450 x 450/100 = 5063 mm2

7.2.1 Example on Circular Column with Uniaxial Bending

Determine the reinforcement to be provided in a circular column with the following
data:
Diameter of column 500 mm
Grade of concrete M20
Characteristic strength 250 N/mm2
Factored load 1600 kN
Factored moment 125 kN.m
Lateral reinforcement :
(a) Hoop reinforcement
(b) Helical reinforcement
(Assume moment due to minimum eccentricity to be less than the actual moment).
Assuming 25 mm bars with 40 mm cover,
d1 = 40 + 12.5 = 52.5 mm
d1/D 52.5/50 = 0.105
Charts for d/D = 0.10 will be used.
(a) Column with hoop reinforcement
Pu/fck D D = (1600 x 1000)/ (20 x 500 x 500) = 0.32
Mu/fck D x D2 =125 x 106 /(20 x 500 x 5002) = 0.05

Referring to Chart 52, for fy = 250 N/mm2

p/fck = 0.87
Percentage of reinforcement,
p = 0.87 x 20 = 1.74 %
As = 1.74 x (_ x 5002/4)/100 = 3416 mm2
(b) Column with Helical Reinforcement
According to 38.4 of the Code, the strength of a compression member with helical

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 Design of Rc columns

reinforcement is 1.05 times the strength of a similar member with lateral ties. Therefore, the,
given load and moment should be divided by 1.05 before referring to the chart.
Pu/fck D D = (1600/1.05 x 1000)/ (20 x 500 x 500) = 0.31
Mu/fck D x D2 =125/1.05 x 106 /(20 x 500 x 5002) = 0.048
Hence, From Chart 52, for fy = 250 N/mm2,
p/fck = 0.078
p = 0.078 x 20 = 1.56 %
As = 1.56 x( _ x 500 x 500/4 )/100 = 3063 cm2
According to 38.4.1 of the Code the ratio of the volume of helical reinforcement to the
volume of the core shall not be less than
0.36 (Ag/Ac - 1) x fck /fy
where Ag is the gross area of the section and Ac is the area of the core measured to the outside
diameter of the helix. Assuming 8 mm dia bars for the helix,
Core diameter = 500 - 2 (40 - 8) = 436 mm
Ag/AC = 500/436 = 1.315
0.36 (Ag/Ac - 1) x fck /fy = 0.36(0.315) 20/250 =0.0091
Volume of helical reinforcement / Volume of core
= Ash _ x 428 /( _/4 x 4362) sh
0.09 Ash / sh
where, Ash is the area of the bar forming the helix and sh is the pitch of the helix.
In order to satisfy the coda1 requirement,
0.09 Ash / sh 0.0091

For 8 mm dia bar,

sh _ 0.09 x 50 / 0.0091 = 49.7 mm. Thus provide 48 mm pitch

7.3 Problems on short axially loaded columns and biaxial bending

9. Determine the reinforcement to be provided in a short column subjected to biaxial

bending, with the following data:
size of column = 400 x 600 mm
Concrete mix = M15
Characteristic strength of reinforcement = 415 N/mm2
Factored load, Pu = 1600 kN
Factored moment acting parallel to the larger dimension, Mux =120 kNm
Factored moment acting parallel to the shorter dimension, Muy = 90 kNm
Moments due to minimum eccentricity are less than the values given above.
Reinforcement is distributed equally on four sides.
As a first trial assume the reinforcement percentage, p = 1.2%
p/fck = 1.2/15 = 0.08
Uniaxial moment capacity of the section about xx-axis :
d1/D = 52.5 /600 = 0.088
Chart for d/D = 0.1 will be used.
Pu/fck b D = (1600 x 1000)/ (15 x 400 x 600) = 0.444
Referring to chart 44
Mu/fck b x D2 = 0.09

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 Design of Rc columns

Mux1 = 0.09 x 15 x 400 x 6002) = 194.4 kN.m

Uni-axial moment capacity of the section about yy axis :
d1/D = 52.5 /400 = 0.131
Chart for d1/D =0.15 will be used.
Referring to Chart 45,
Mu/fck b x D2 = 0.083
Mux1 = 0.083 x 15 x 600 x 4002) = 119.52 kN.m
Calculation of Puz :
Referring to Chart 63 corresponding to
p = 1.2, fy = 415 and fck = 15,
Puz/Ag = 10.3
Puz = 10.3 x 400 x 600 = 2472 kN
Mux/Mux1 = 120/194.4 =0.62
Muy/Muy1=90/119.52 = 0.75
Pu /Puz =1600/2472 = 0.65
Referring Chart, the permissible value of Mux/Mux1 corresponding to Muy/Muy1 and Pu/Puz is
equal to 0.58
The actual value of 0.62 is only slightly higher than the value read from the Chart.
This can be made up by slight increase in reinforcement.
Using Boris load contour equation as per IS:456-2000
Pu /Puz = 0.65 thus, _n = 1 + [(2-1) / (0.8 - 0.2)] (0.65-0.2) = 1.75
[0.62 ]1.75 + [0.75]1.75 = 1.04 slightly greater than 1 and slightly unsafe. This can be made up
by slight increase in reinforcement say 1.3%
Thus provide As = 1.3x400x600/100 = 3120 mm2
Provide 1.3 % of steel
p/fck = 1.3/15 = 0.086
d1/D = 52.5 /600 = 0.088 = 0.1
From chart 44
Mu/fck b x D2 = 0.095
Mux1 = 0.095 x 15 x 400 x 6002) = 205.2 kN.m
Referring to Chart 45,
Mu/fck b x D2 = 0.085
Mux1 = 0.085 x 15 x 600 x 4002) = 122.4 kN.m
Chart 63 : Puz/Ag = 10.4
Puz = 10.4 x 400 x 600 = 2496 kN
Mux/Mux1 = 120/205.2 =0.585
Muy/Muy1=90/122.4 = 0.735
Pu /Puz =1600/2496 = 0.641
Referring to Chart 64, the permissible value of Mux/Mux1 corresponding to Muy/Muy1 and Pu
/Puz is equal to 0.60
Hence the section is O.K.
Using Boris load contour equation as per IS:456-2000
Pu /Puz = 0.641 thus, _n = 1 + [(2-1) / (0.8 - 0.2)] (0.641-0.2) = 1.735
[120/205.2]1.735 + [90/122.4]1.735 = 0.981 _ 1 Thus OK
As = 3120 mm2. Provide 10 bars of 20 mm dia. Steel provided is 314 x 10 = 3140 mm2

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 Design of Rc columns

10. Verify the adequacy of the short column section 500 mm x 300 mm under the
following load conditions:
Pu= 1400 kN, Mux= 125 kNm, Muy= 75 kNm. The design interaction curves of SP 16
should be used. Assume that the column is a short column and the eccentricity due to
moments is greater than the minimum eccentricity.
Solution:
Given: Dx= 500 mm, b= 300 mm, As= 2946 mm2 Mu= 125 kNm, Muy= 75 kNm, fck= 25MPa,
fy= 415 MPa
Applied eccentricities ex= Mux/Pu= 125 103/1400 = 89.3 mm
ex/Dx= 0.179 ey= Muy/Pu= 75 103/1400 = 53.6 mm ey/Dy= 0.179
These eccentricities for the short column are clearly not less than the minimum eccentricities
specified by the Code.
Uniaxial moment capacities: Mux1, Muy1As determined in the earlier example, correspondingto
Pu= 1400 kN,Mux1= 187 kNm
Muy1= 110 kNm Values of Puz and n
Puz= 0.45fckAg+ (0.75fy 0.45fck)Asc
= (0.45 25 300 500) + (0.75 415 0.45 25)2946
= (1687500 + 883800)N = 2571 kN
Pu/Puz= 1400/2571 = 0.545 (which lies between 0.2 and 0.8)
n= 1.575
Check safety under biaxial bending
[125/187]1.575 + [75/110]1
= 0.530 + 0.547
= 1.077 > 1.0
Hence, almost ok.

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