RC2 BY DR.

AHMAD MALKAWI
DESIGN OF 1
REINFORCED
CONCRETE II
(RCII)

By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi

Chapter One
Design of Short Columns
Subjected to Compression
and Bending

Reference: Design of concrete

structures, Arthur H. Nilson et al.,
14th Edition in SI units. Chapter 8

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 2

 • Based on loading:
1.1 INTRODUCTION: • Axially loaded columns, where
Classification of Columns loads are assumed acting at
the center of the column
section.
• Eccentrically loaded columns,
where loads are acting at a
distance e from the center of
the column section which
could be along x or y axis,
causing moments either about
the y or x axis.
• Biaxially loaded columns,
where the load is applied at
any point on the column
section, causing moments
about both the x and y axis
simultaneously.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 3

 1.1 INTRODUCTION: • Based on length:
• Short columns: Failure is
Classification of Columns due to the crushing of
concrete or the yielding of
the steel bars under the
• ACI permits columns to be full load capacity of the
designed as short columns if the column.
secondary moment does not
reduce their strength by more
• Long (Slender) columns,
than 5%. where buckling effect and
• A column that has large slenderness ratio must be
secondary moments is said to be taken into consideration in
a slender column, and it is the design, thus reducing
necessary to size its cross section
for the sum of both the primary
the load capacity of the
and secondary moments. column compared to short
columns.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 4

 1.1 INTRODUCTION: • Based on the shape of the
cross-section:
Classification of Columns • Sections may be square,
rectangular, round, L-shaped,
octagonal, or any desired
shape with an adequate side
width or dimensions.
• Based on column lateral
reinforcement:
• Tied columns containing
steel ties to confine the main
longitudinal bars in the
columns.
• Spiral columns containing
spirals (spring-type
reinforcement) to hold the
main longitudinal
reinforcement.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 5

 1.1 INTRODUCTION: • Based on frame bracing:
• Columns may be part of a
Classification of Columns frame that is braced against
sidesway or unbraced
against sidesway.
• Bracing may be achieved by
using shear walls or bracings
in the building frame.
• In braced frames, columns
resist mainly gravity loads,
and shear walls resist lateral
loads and wind loads.
• In unbraced frames, columns
resist both gravity and lateral
loads, which reduce the load
capacity of the columns.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 6

 • Columns chiefly carry loads in compression, but simultaneous
bending is almost always present.
• Bending moments are caused by:
• Continuity, i.e., by the fact that building columns are parts
of monolithic frames in which the support moments of
1.2 Axial Load the girders are partly resisted by the abutting columns,
• Transverse loads such as wind forces
and Bending • Eccentrically loaded columns like loads on column
brackets
• A column subjected to pure axial loads does not exist in
concrete buildings. However, it can be assumed that axially
loaded columns are those with relatively small eccentricity e
of about 0.10h for tied columns and 0.05h for spiral columns
or less, where h is the total depth of the column and e is the
eccentric distance from the center of the column.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 7

1.3 Load Eccentricity (e)
• It is usually convenient to replace the axial load and
moment with an equal load P applied at
eccentricity e = M/P.
• All columns may then be classified in terms of the
equivalent eccentricity.
• Columns with small e: characterized by
compression over the entire section, and fail by
crushing of the concrete accompanied by yielding
of the steel in compression on the more heavily
loaded side.
• Columns with large e: subjected to tension over at
least a part of the section, and may fail due to
tensile yielding of the steel on the side farthest Maximum compression stress is 0.85f ’c.
from the load. The ultimate capacity occurs when the
compressive concrete strain reaches 𝜺𝒄𝒖 = 𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟑.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 8

 1.4 Modes of Column Failure
Depending on moments and axial loads, failure mode may
be due to:
a) Large Pn with negligible M— failure will occur by concrete
crushing; all reinforcing bars reached their fy in compression.
b) Large Pn and small M (i.e., e is small) —entire cross section
in compression, compression will be higher on one side than
on the other, failure will occur by concrete crushing with all
the bars in compression.
c) e is larger than in case (b) —tension begins to develop on
one side of the column, and the steel on that side will be in
tension but less than the fy. Failure will occur by concrete
crushing on the compression side.
d) A balanced loading condition—the reinforcing bars on the
tension side will reach fy while the concrete on the opposite
side reaches 0.85f ’c.
e) Large M with small Pn— failure will be by yielding of bars on
tensile side of column prior to concrete crushing.
f) Large M with no appreciable Pn— failure will occur as it does
in a beam.
9
RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi
1.5 Load-moment (Strength)
Interaction Diagram
• Region A–C: Compression-Controlled
Failures. Failure is due to crushing of the
compression face before the extreme
tensile layer of reinforcement yields.
• Balanced condition (Pb) – Point C: failure
of concrete occurs at the same time as
the steel yields. The moment that
accompanies this load is called the
balanced moment (Mb) , and the relevant
𝑀
balanced eccentricity 𝒆𝒃 = 𝑃 𝑏 .
𝑏
• Point D - Tensile-Controlled Limit. Point D
corresponds to strain distribution with
0.003 compressive strain on the top face
and a tensile strain of 0.005 in the
extreme layer of tension steel. The failure
will be ductile.
• Region C–D - Transition Region. The
transition of the ɸ factor, which equals
0.65 (tied column) or 0.075 (spiral
column) at point C and equals 0.09 at
point D.
RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 10
 • The eccentricity of a column load is the
distance from the loading point to the
plastic centroid of the column.
• The plastic centroid represents the location of
the resultant force produced by the steel and
1.6 The Plastic the concrete.
Centroid • For locating the plastic centroid, all concrete is
assumed to be stressed in compression to
0.85f’c and all steel to fy in compression.
• For symmetrical sections, the plastic centroid
coincides with the centroid of the column cross
section, while for nonsymmetrical sections, it
can be located by taking moments equilibrium.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 11

Ex1:Determine the plastic centroid of the section in
figure. Take 𝒇′𝒄 = 𝟐𝟒𝑴𝑷𝒂 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒚 = 𝟒𝟐𝟎𝑴𝑷𝒂
The plastic centroid falls on the x-axis, as shown in Figure
because of symmetry

X X

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 12

1.7 Strain Compatibility Analysis
• With plane sections assumed to remain plane,
concrete strains vary linearly with distance from
the N.A.
• With full compatibility of deformations, the steel
strains at any location are the same as the
strains in the adjacent concrete.
• Compression steel A’s and tension steel As are
located at distances d' and d, respectively, from
the compression face.
• Holding the compression strain at 0.003 on the
far edge, we can then assume a series of
different strains on the other edge and calculate
Pn and Mn for each.
• Enough values should be obtained to plot an
interaction curve.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 13

1.8 Development of
Interaction Diagrams
• Equilibrium between external and
internal axial forces shown in Figure:
𝑃𝑛 = 𝐶𝑐 + 𝐶𝑠 − 𝑇

𝑃𝑛 = 0.85𝑓𝑐′ 𝑎𝑏 + 𝐴′𝑠 𝑓𝑠′ − 𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑠 (Eq1)

• The moment about the centerline (plastic

centroid) of the section of the internal
stresses and forces must be equal and
opposite to the moment of the external
force Pn:
ℎ 𝑎 ℎ ℎ
𝑀𝑛 = 𝐶𝑐 − 2 + 𝐶𝑠 − 𝑑 ′ + 𝑇(𝑑 − 2)
2 2
(Eq2)

• The fact that the presence of the A’s has

displaced a corresponding amount of 𝒅−𝒄 𝒅−𝒄
concrete of area A’s is neglected in writing 𝜺𝒔 = 𝜺𝒖 , 𝒇𝒔 = 𝑬𝒔 𝜺𝒖 ≤ 𝒇𝒚 , 𝐓 = 𝑨𝒔 𝒇𝒔 , 𝒂 = 𝜷𝟏 𝒄 ≤ 𝒉
𝒄 𝒄
these equations. To account for it in both 𝐜−𝒅′ 𝐜−𝒅′
𝜺′𝒔 = 𝜺𝒖 𝒄 , 𝒇′𝒔 = 𝑬𝒔 𝜺𝒖 𝒄 ≤ 𝒇𝒚 , 𝑪𝒔 = 𝑨′𝒔 𝒇′𝒔 , 𝑪𝒄 = 𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇′𝒄 𝒂𝒃
equations multiply A’s by (𝑓𝑠′ − 0.85𝑓𝑐′ )
rather than by 𝑓𝑠′ .
RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 14
1.8 Development of
Interaction Diagrams
• Solve Eq 1and Eq 2 for Pn and Mn that
would result in failure.
• In Eq 1and Eq 2, 𝒇′𝒔 ,𝒇𝒔 , and a can be
expressed in terms of a single unknown c
(the distance to the N.A.).
• For any e, there is a unique pair of values
of Pn and Mn that will produce the state of
incipient failure.
• Construct a strength interaction diagram
defining the failure load and failure
moment for a given column for the full
range of eccentricities from zero to
infinity.
• Any radial line represents a particular
eccentricity e = M/P.
• Any combination of P and M outside the 𝑒=∞
envelope will cause failure.
RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 15
 • Compute P0 at Mn=0, and determine maximum Pn in
compression using axially loaded column equation to get
one end of the curve (Y-axis), :
1.8.1 General 𝑃0 = 0.85𝑓𝑐′ 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴𝑠 + 𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑦
Procedure for • Compute M0 at Pn=0 using the doubly R.C. beam
Construction of equation to get the other end of the curve (X-axis).
Interaction Diagrams • Select c value (multiple values; cb and values above and
below cb):
• Calculate the stress in the steel components.
• Calculate the forces in the steel and concrete.
• Determine Pn value.
• Compute the Mn about the center.
• Compute moment arm, e = Mn /Pn.
• Plot Pn verse Mn.
Ex2: A 300 X 500 mm column is reinforced with 4ɸ29
(area 645 mm2 each). If 𝒇′𝒄 = 𝟐𝟖 𝑴𝑷𝒂 and 𝒇𝒚
= 𝟒𝟐𝟎 𝑴𝑷𝒂 , determine:
a) the balanced load (Pb), balanced moment (Mb), and
corresponding eccentricity eb for balanced failure
b) the load and moment for a representative point in the
tension failure region of the interaction curve
c) the load and moment for a representative point in the
compression failure region
d) the axial load strength for zero eccentricity.
e) sketch the strength interaction diagram for this column.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 17

 Ex2 - Solution:
a) The balanced load (Pb), balanced moment (Mb), and corresponding eccentricity eb for balanced failure.
420
At balanced failure condition, 𝜀𝑐𝑢 = 0.003, 𝜀𝑦 = 200×103 = 0.0021 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑓𝑠 = 𝑓𝑦
𝜀𝑢 0.003
𝑐𝑏 = d 𝜀 = 435 × 0.003+0.0021 = 256𝑚𝑚, 𝑎𝑏 = 𝛽1 𝑐𝑏 = 0.85 × 256 = 218𝑚𝑚, 𝐶𝑐 = 0.85𝑓𝑐′ 𝑎𝑏 = 1557 𝑘𝑁
𝑢 +𝜀𝑦

𝑐−𝑑′ 256−65
𝑓𝑠′ = 𝐸𝑠 𝜀𝑐𝑢 𝑐 ≤ 𝑓𝑦 → 200 × 103 0.003 = 448 𝑀𝑃𝑎 > 𝑓𝑦 = 420𝑀𝑃𝑎 the compression steel has yielded too.
256

𝑃𝑏 = [1557 × 103 + 1290 × 420 − 1290 × 420] × 10−3 = 1557 𝑘𝑁

𝑀𝑏 = [1557 × 103 (250−109)+1290 × 420 250 − 65 + 1290 × 420 435 − 250 ] × 10−6 = 420 𝑘𝑁. 𝑚
The corresponding eccentricity of load is eb = Mb/Pb = 270 mm.
b) The load and moment for a representative point in the tension failure region of the interaction curve.
Any choice of c smaller than cb=256 mm will give a point in the tension failure region. For example, choose c = 125 mm.
𝑎 = 0.85 × 125 = 106𝑚𝑚, 𝐶𝑐 = 0.85𝑓𝑐′ 𝑎𝑏 = 757 𝑘𝑁, By definition, fs = fy
′
𝑐 − 𝑑 125 − 65
𝑓𝑠′ = 𝐸𝑠 𝜀𝑢 ≤ 𝑓𝑦 → 200 × 103 0.003 = 288 𝑀𝑃𝑎 ≤ 𝑓𝑦 = 420𝑀𝑃𝑎
𝑐 125
𝑃𝑛 = [757 × 103 + 1290 × 288 − 1290 × 420] × 10−3 = 587 𝑘𝑁
𝑀𝑛 = [757 × 103 (250−53)+1290 × 288 250 − 65 + 1290 × 420 435 − 250 ] × 10−6 = 318 𝑘𝑁. 𝑚
The corresponding eccentricity of load is en = Mn/Pn = 542 mm.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 18

 Ex2 – Solution-Cont.:
c) The load and moment for a representative point in the compression failure region
Any choice of c larger than cb=256 mm will give a point in the compression failure region. Choose c = 460 mm.
𝑎 = 𝛽1 𝑐 = 0.85 × 460 = 391𝑚𝑚, 𝐶𝑐 = 0.85𝑓𝑐′ 𝑎𝑏 = 0.85 × 28 × 391 × 300 × 10−3 = 2792 𝑘𝑁
𝑑−𝑐 435−460
𝑓𝑠 = 𝐸𝑠 𝜀𝑢 ≤ 𝑓𝑦 → 𝑓𝑠 = 200 × 103 × 0.003 = −33 < 420, -ve value indicates that As is in compression.
𝑐 460
′
𝑐 − 𝑑 460 − 65
𝑓𝑠′ = 𝐸𝑠 𝜀𝑢 ≤ 𝑓𝑦 → 200 × 103 0.003 = 515 𝑀𝑃𝑎 > 420 𝑀𝑃𝑎
𝑐 460
𝑃𝑛 = [2792 × 103 + 1290 × 420 + 1290 × 33)] × 10−3 = 3376 𝑘𝑁
𝑀𝑛 = [2793 × 103 (250−196)+1290 × 420 250 − 65 − 1290 × 33 435 − 250 ] × 10−6 = 243 𝑘𝑁. 𝑚
The corresponding eccentricity of load is en = Mn/Pn = 72mm.

d) The axial strength of the column if concentrically loaded corresponds to c = ∞ and e = 0.

𝑃𝑛 = 0.85𝑓𝑐′ 𝐴𝑔 + 𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑦 = [0.85 × 28 × 300 × 500 + 2580 × 420] × 10−3 = 4654 𝑘𝑁
Note that subtraction of the concrete displaced by the steel has been neglected. For comparison, if the deduction were made in
the last calculation,
𝑃𝑛 = 0.85𝑓𝑐′ (𝐴𝑔 −𝐴𝑠 ) + 𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑦 = [0.85 × 28 × (300 × 500 − 2580) + 2580 × 420] × 10−3 = 4592 𝑘𝑁
The error in neglecting this deduction is only 1% in this case; the difference generally can be neglected, except perhaps for
columns with reinforcement ratios close to the maximum of 8%.
RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 19
Ex2 – Solution-Cont.:

e) In the process of developing a strength interaction

curve, select the values of steel strain as done in step a,
for use in steps b and c.

It is useful in determining Mn and Pn for values of steel

strain that correspond to changes in the strength
reduction factor ɸ.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 20

 Ex3: Determine Pn for the section shown for an eccentricity of e=200
mm. Take 𝒇′𝒄 = 𝟐𝟎𝑴𝑷𝒂 and 𝒇𝒚 = 𝟑𝟖𝟎𝑴𝑷𝒂.
Solution:
Determine if the given eccentricity e=200 mm is larger or smaller than eb?
The balanced strain condition can be computed using the same procedures
as in the previous example Ex2.a.
Then eb=300.7 mm
Since e=200<eb=300.7, the section is compression-controlled
Assume compression steel has yielded 𝜀𝑠′ > 𝜀𝑦 𝑜𝑟 𝑓𝑠′ = 𝑓𝑦

Taking summation of moments about 𝑃𝑛 , σ 𝑀𝑝𝑛 = 0.

0.85𝑐
[𝐶𝑐 − 100 − 𝐶𝑠 100 − 62.5 − 𝑇(600 − 62.5 − 100] × 10−3 = 0
2
𝑐 3 − 235.29𝑐 2 − 149202.81𝑐 − 84582730.77 = 0
Solving for c, the reasonable result for is c=396.6 mm
RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 21
 Ex3 – Solution-Cont.:
Check for 𝐶𝑠 , it was assumed that compression steel yields (𝑓𝑠′ = 𝑓𝑦 ):
𝑐 − 𝑑′
𝑓𝑠′ 3
= 200 × 10 × 0.003 = 505.45 MPa > 𝑓𝑦 = 380 𝑀𝑃𝑎 𝑂𝐾
𝑐

𝐶𝑠 = 534.56 𝑘𝑁 𝐶𝑐 = 2292.35 𝑘𝑁
T = 313.91 𝑘𝑁 < 𝑓𝑦 = 380 𝑀𝑃𝑎

𝑃𝑛 = 𝐶𝑐 + 𝐶𝑠 − 𝑇 = 2513 𝑘𝑁, 𝑀𝑛 = 𝑃𝑛 𝑒 = 502.6 𝑘𝑁. 𝑚

The tension steel does not yield → T = 313.91 𝑘𝑁 < 𝑓𝑦 = 380 𝑀𝑃𝑎

or by check for strain:

𝑆𝑜, ∅ = 0.65 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑑 , and

𝑃𝑢 = ∅𝑃𝑛 = 0.65 × 2513 = 1633.5 𝑘𝑁

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 22

1.9 Distributed Reinforcement
• For small moment (small e), P is predominant, and
when a small cross section is desired, place the steel
more uniformly around the perimeter. Fig. a to d.
• For large M (large e), it is most economical to
concentrate all or most of the steel along the outer
faces parallel to the axis of bending. Fig. e to h.
• Spiral Column - more efficient for e/h < 0.1, but
forming and spiral are expensive
• Tied Column - Bars in 4-faces: (1) When the long
column direction (h) facing the large M where e/h <
𝑃𝑢
0.2 (2) large compression forces such as 𝑓′ 𝑏ℎ ≥ 0.5
𝑐
(3) for biaxial bending.
• Tied Column - Bars in 2-faces: (1)When the large M
is not within the long column direction and most
efficient when e/h > 0.2 (2) small compression forces
𝑃𝑢
such as 𝑓′ 𝑏ℎ < 0.5.
𝑐

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 23

1.10 Unsymmetrical Reinforcement
• Most reinforced concrete columns are
symmetrically reinforced about the axis of
bending.
• For some cases, such as the columns of rigid
portal frames in which the moments are
uniaxial and the eccentricity is large, it is
more economical to use an unsymmetrical
pattern of bars, with most of the bars on the
tension side such as shown in the Figure.
• Such columns can be analyzed by the same
strain compatibility approach as described in
section 1.7.
• Eccentricity of the applied load must be
measured with respect to the plastic
centroid.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 24

 Ex4: The column shown in Figure is reinforced with
10ɸ36 bars distributed around the perimeter. Load Pn
will be applied with eccentricity e about the strong axis.
Material strengths are 𝒇′𝒄 = 𝟒𝟐 𝑴𝑷𝒂 and 𝒇𝒚 = 𝟓𝟓𝟎 𝑴𝑷𝒂
Find the load and moment corresponding to a failure
point with neutral axis c = 460 mm from the right face.
Solution:
• When the concrete reaches its limit strain of 0.003, the strain
distribution is that shown in Fig. b, the strains at the locations of the
four bar groups are found from similar triangles, after which the
stresses are found by multiplying strains by Es = 200,000 MPa applying
the limit value fy:

<fy=550 MPa

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 25

 Ex4 – SOLUTION-Cont.:
For 𝑓𝑐′ = 42 → 𝛽1 = 0.75 and the depth of the equivalent stress block is a = 0.75 X 460 = 345 mm.
The concrete compressive resultant is Cc = 0.85 X 42 X 345 X300 X 10-3 = 3695 kN
The steel forces are:
Csl = 3018 x 516 x 10-3 = 1575 kN Cs2 = 2012 X 280 X 10-3 = 563 kN
Cs3 = 2012 x 46 x 10-3 = 92 kN Ts4 = 3018 X 190 X 10-3 = 573 kN
The axial load and moment that would produce failure for a neutral axis c= 460 mm from the right
face are found by Eqs. (1) and (2):
Pn = 3695 + 1575 + 563 + 92 - 573 = 5350 kN
Mn= 3695(335 - 172.5) + 1575(335 - 65) + 563(335 - 245) - 92(335 - 245) + 573(335 - 65) = 1222 kN.m
The corresponding eccentricity is e = 1,222,000/5350 = 228 mm.
Other points on the interaction diagram can be computed in a similar way.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 26

 1. Even with the relatively small e of about 1/3 of
the depth of the section, only the bars of group 1
just reached their yield strain.
2. It follows that the use of the more expensive
high-strength steel is economical in
General symmetrically reinforced columns only for very
small eccentricities, e.g., in the lower stories of
Conclusions tall buildings.
Made from Ex4 3. The contribution of the intermediate bars of
groups 2 and 3 to both Pn and Mn is quite small
because of their low stresses.
4. Intermediate bars, except as they are needed to
hold ties in place, are economical only for
columns with very small eccentricities.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 27

1.11 Design Aids (Use of I.D.)
• Instead of plotting Pn versus Mn, corresponding
parameters have been used to make the charts more
generally applicable.
𝑃𝑛
• Load is plotted as 𝐾𝑛 = , while moment is
𝑓𝑐′ 𝐴𝑔
𝑃𝑛 𝑒 𝑒
expressed as 𝑅𝑛 = = 𝐾 where Ag=bh
𝑓𝑐′ 𝐴𝑔 ℎ ℎ 𝑛

• Families of curves are drawn for various values of

𝐴
𝜌𝑔 = 𝑠𝑡 between 0.01 and 0.08.
𝐴𝑔

• The graphs include radial lines representing

different eccentricity ratios e/h, as well as lines
representing different ratios of stress fs/fy; or values
of strain εt = 0.002 and 0.005 in the extreme tension
steel.
• These charts permit the direct design of
eccentrically loaded columns throughout the
common range of strength and geometric variables.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 28

1.11 Design Aids (Use of I.D.)
The charts may be used in one of two ways as follows:
For a given factored load Pu and e = Mu/Pu
1. (a) Select trial dimensions (1st trial can be found assuming
compression stress =0.4𝑓𝑐′ for ordinary columns OR
0.3𝑓𝑐′ for columns in seismic areas, then Ag= Pu /0.4𝑓𝑐′ OR
assume ρg=1% and find Ag using axial column equation).
𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑐/ 𝑐𝑜𝑓 𝑏𝑎𝑟𝑠 𝑜𝑛 𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒
(b) Calculate the ratio 𝛾 = 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ

Where both values being taken in the direction of bending

(c) Calculate Kn and Rn.
(d) Select I.D. based on 𝑓𝑐′ , 𝑓𝑦 , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝛾 . Assure that the
column picture at the upper right agrees with the steel
configuration being used. If γ value falls between two curves • The steel should be distributed either in 2-faces
use interpolation. or 4-faces. However, if 2-faces used, the steel
(e) From the I.D, for the values found in (c), read the should be placed parallel to the eccentricity.
required reinforcement ratio ρg (should be <4% to avoid • For biaxial moment the steel should be placed
reinforcement congestion). on 4-faces.
When use the chart with e=o problems, we need to multiply
Kn and Rn values by the factor α
α = 0.8 for tied columns and 0.85 for spirals RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 29
1.11 Design Aids (Use of I.D.)
2. (a) Select the reinforcement ratio ρg (usually 1% to 2%).
(b) Choose a trial value of h and calculate e/h and γ.
(c) From the corresponding graph, read Kn and calculate
the required Ag.
(d) Calculate b = Ag/h.
(e) Revise the trial value of h if necessary to obtain a well-
proportioned section.
(f) Calculate the total steel area Ast = ρgbh.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 30

 Ex5: Selection of reinforcement for column of given size. A column is to be designed for a service
D.L.=998 kN, L.L.=1320 kN, MD=180 kN.m, and ML=260 kN.m. Architectural considerations
require that a rectangular column be used, with dimensions b = 500 mm and h = 625 mm. Find the
required column reinforcement. Material strengths are 𝑓𝑐′ = 28 𝑀𝑃𝑎 and 𝑓𝑦 = 420 𝑀𝑃𝑎.
Solution:
Pu = 1.2 X 988 + 1.6 X 1320 = 3298 kNMu = 1.2 X 180 + 1.6 X 260 = 632 kN.m.
A column 500 X 625 mm is specified, and reinforcement distributed around the column perimeter will be used.
Bar cover to its center is estimated to be 62.5 mm, then γ = (625 - 125)/625 = 0.80.
The column parameters (assuming bending about the strong axis, h=625) are:

From .ID., ρg = 0.024. Thus, the required reinforcement is Ast = 0.024 X 312,500 = 7500 mm2. Use 12ɸ 29, one at each
conner and two evenly spaced along each face of the column, providing Ast= 7740 mm2.
Check the bar spacing and other code requirements and design for ties
RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 31
 Ex6: Selection of column size for a given reinforcement ratio. A column is to be designed to carry
Pu=2140 kN and Mu=665 kN.m. Material strengths 𝑓𝑐′ = 28 𝑀𝑃𝑎 and 𝑓𝑦 = 420 𝑀𝑃𝑎 are
specified. Assume that ρg=0.03 is optimum. Find the required dimensions b and h of the column.
Bending will be about the strong axis, and an arrangement of steel with bars concentrated in two
layers, adjacent to the outer faces of the column and parallel to the axis of bending, will be used.
Solution:
It is convenient to select a trial column dimension h, perpendicular to the axis of bending; a value of h = 625 mm will
be selected, and assuming a concrete cover of 62.5 mm to the bar centers, the parameter γ = 0.80.
e = 665/2140 = 0.311m = 311mm, and e/h = 311/625 = 0.50
From ID, with e/h = 0.50 and ρg=0.03 , Kn = 0.505. For the trial dimension h = 625 mm, the required column width is:

A column 375 X 625 mm will be used, for which the required steel area is Ast = 0.03 X 375 X 625 = 7031 mm. 8ɸ36
bars will be used, providing Ast = 8048 mm2, arranged in two layers of four bars each.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 32

 ρ=0.024

Kn=0.505

EX.5 EX.4
RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 33
1.12 Columns Subjected to
Biaxial Bending • Many columns are subjected to
biaxial bending, that is, bending
about both axes.
 Corner columns in buildings
where beams and girders
frame into the columns from
both directions.
 Columns that are cast
monolithically as part of
frames in both directions.
 Columns that are supporting
heavy spandrel beams.
 Bridge piers.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 34

 • Circular columns have polar symmetry and, thus, the
same ultimate capacity in all directions. The design
process is the same, regardless of the directions of the
M.
• If there is bending about both the x- and y-axes, the
biaxial moment can be computed by combining the
1.12.1 Circular two moments or their eccentricities as follows:
2 2
Columns Subjected 𝑀𝑢 = 𝑀𝑢𝑥 + 𝑀𝑢𝑦 𝑒= 𝑒𝑥2 + 𝑒𝑦2

to Biaxial Bending • Whenever possible, it is desirable to make columns

subject to biaxial bending circular in shape.
• For shapes other than circular ones, it is necessary to
consider the three-dimensional interaction effects.
• If square or rectangular columns to be used for biaxial
moment, the reinforcing should be placed uniformly
around the perimeters.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 35

 1.12.2 Rectangular Columns
Subjected to Biaxial Bending
• The use of previous uniaxially loaded
procedures will lead to correct answer, but the
mathematics involved is so complicated.
• The shape of the compression side of the
column and location of N.A. can not be found
easily.
• Cc = 0.85fc’ times the shaded area Ac and each
bar having a force equal to its cross-sectional
area times its stress.
• It is desirable to consider three-dimensional
interaction curves.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 36

1.12.2 Rectangular Columns
Subjected to Biaxial Bending The biaxial bending moments
3D interaction curves Mx = Pey, My = Pex
• Fig. a, uniaxial bending about Y-
axis, with load eccentricity ex. The
corresponding I.D. is shown as
case (a).
• Fig. b uniaxial bending about X-
axis, with load eccentricity eY. The
corresponding I.D. is shown as
case (b).
• Fig. c combines X and. Y axis
bending, the orientation of the
resultant eccentricity is defined by
the angle λ. The corresponding I.D.
is shown as case (c).
• Alternatively, simple approximate
methods are widely used.

RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 37

 1.12.3 Bresler Reciprocal Load Method
(Approximate Method)
• The column I.D. can be plotted as a function of the axial
load Pn and ex = Mny/Pn and ey = Mnx/Pn as shown in Fig. a.
• The surface S1 can be transformed into an equivalent
failure surface S2, where ex and ey are plotted against l/Pn
rather than Pn.
• Point A represent the reciprocal of failure load Pny0
(corresponding to moment Mnyo) where ey=0 and any
given value of ex. Similarly, for point B.
• The values of PnxO and Pnyo are easily established, for known e using the previous method.
• A plane is defined by A, B, and C is used as an approximation of the actual failure surface S2.
• The vertical ordinate 1/Pn,exact to the true failure surface will always be conservatively
estimated by the distance 1/Pn,approx to the oblique plane ABC because of the concave
eggshell shape.
• Bresler's reciprocal load equation derives from the geometry of the approximating plane.
• Square or rectangular columns with unequal bending moments about their major axes will
require a different amount of reinforcement in each direction.
RC2 By Dr. Ahmad Malkawi 38
1.12.3 Bresler Reciprocal Equation
1 1 1 1
= + -
𝑃𝑛 𝑃𝑛𝑥 𝑃𝑛𝑦 𝑃𝑛𝑜
Where: Pn= the nominal axial load capacity when the load is placed at a given eccentricity along both axes.
Pnx = the nominal axial load capacity of the section when the load is placed at an eccentricity ey.
Pny = the nominal axial load capacity of the section when the load is placed at an eccentricity ex.
Pn0 = the nominal axial load capacity of the section when ex = ey =0.
• The Bresler equation is valid for all cases when 𝑃𝑛 ≥ 0.1𝑃𝑛𝑜 .
• When 𝑃𝑛 < 0.1𝑃𝑛𝑜 , the axial force may be neglected, and the section can be designed as a member
subjected to pure biaxial bending according to the following equations:
𝑀𝑛𝑥 𝑀𝑛𝑦
+ ≤1
𝑀0𝑥 𝑀0𝑦
Where: 𝑀𝑛𝑥 = 𝑃𝑛 𝑒𝑦 - design moment about x-axis
𝑀𝑛𝑦 = 𝑃𝑛 𝑒𝑥 - design moment about y-axis
𝑀0𝑥 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑀0𝑦 - uniaxial moment strength about the x and y-axis, respectively
• The Bresler equation is not recommended when the section is subjected to axial tension loads.
 Example 7: Determine the nominal compressive strength of the short-tied column, which is subjected
to biaxial bending. ex=200 mm, ey=100 mm, fy=420 MPa, and f’c=28 MPa.

Solution:

𝐴𝑠𝑡 4926
• 𝜌= = = 0.0205
𝐴𝑔 600×400

2- For x direction (bending about y-axis → 𝑃𝑛𝑦 ):

𝑒𝑥 200 600−2×40−2×10−28
• = = 0.33, 𝛾= = 0.79
ℎ 600 600
𝑒
• Draw line of = 0.33 on diagrams for 𝛾 = 0.7 and 𝛾 = 0.8
ℎ

• From diagram of 𝛾 = 0.7 → Kn=0.5, From diagram of 𝛾 = 0.8 → Kn=0.52

• Use linear interpolation to find Kn@ 𝛾 = 0.79 → Kn=0.518
𝑃𝑛 𝑃𝑛
• 𝐾𝑛 = → 0.518 = × 10−3 → 𝑃𝑛𝑦 = 3481 𝑘𝑁
𝑓𝑐′ 𝐴𝑔 28×(400×600)

• Note that φ=0.65-compression-controlled section (see interaction diagrams).

RC1 By Dr. Ahmad B. Malkawi
 0.33
0.33

0.52
0.5

RC1 By Dr. Ahmad B. Malkawi

Example 7(cont.):
2- For y direction (bending about x-axis → 𝑃𝑛𝑥 ): 4- Determine Pno for the section dimensions h=600mm,
𝑒𝑦
b=400mm, and ρg=0.0205:
100
• = = 0.25
ℎ 400 • 𝑃𝑛𝑜 = 0.85𝑓𝑐′ 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴𝑠 + 𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑦
400−2×40−2×10−28
• 𝛾= = 0.68
400 • 𝑃𝑛𝑜 = [0.85 28 400 × 600 − 4926 + 4926
𝑒
• Draw line of ℎ = 0.25 on diagrams for 𝛾 = 0.6 and 𝛾 = 0.7 × 420] × 10−3 = 7664 𝑘𝑁
• Note that Pno can be defined directly from
• From diagram of 𝛾 = 0.6 → Kn=0.62 interaction diagrams when ex=ey=0.
• From diagram of 𝛾 = 0.7 → Kn=0.64 • Substituting 𝑃𝑛𝑥 , 𝑃𝑛𝑦 , and 𝑃𝑛𝑜 in Bresler equation:
• Use linear interpolation to find Kn@ 𝛾 = 0.68 → Kn=0.636 1 1 1 1
= + -
𝑃 𝑃 𝑃𝑛 𝑃𝑛𝑥 𝑃𝑛𝑦 𝑃𝑛𝑜
• 𝐾𝑛 = 𝑓′ 𝐴𝑛 → 0.636 = 28×(400×600)
𝑛
× 10−3 →
𝑐 𝑔 1 1 1 1
= 4274+ 3481- 7664 = 0.000391
𝑃𝑛
• 𝑃𝑛𝑥 = 4274 𝑘𝑁
𝑃𝑛 = 2559 𝑘𝑁
• Note that φ=0.65-compression-controlled section (see
interaction diagrams).

RC1 By Dr. Ahmad B. Malkawi

Example 8: Design a rectangular tied column subjected to: Pu=1150 kN with ex=0.4 m, ey=0.2 m, using
fy=414 MPa, and f’c=28 MPa.

Solution:
• 1- Assume h= 650mm (since ex> ey, then h should be in the x direction)
• 2- Compute the e/h ratio: ex /h=0.4/0.65=0.62, then find γ assuming φbar=25mm
650−2×40−2×10−25
𝛾= 650
= 0.81

• 3- Use interaction diagrams for reinforcement on 4-faces and ρg=0.01

Using interpolation Kn@𝛾=0.81= 0.2
𝑃𝑢 1150×103
• 4- 𝐾𝑛 = → 0.2 = → 𝑏 = 486 𝑚𝑚
𝜑𝑓𝑐′ 𝐴𝑔 0.65×28×(𝑏×650)

𝐴𝑠𝑠𝑢𝑚𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑠 𝑎𝑟𝑒 650𝑥500 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ρg=0.01 → Now it becomes an

analysis problem

RC1 By Dr. Ahmad B. Malkawi

Example 8 (cont.):
5- For x direction (bending about y-axis → 𝑃𝑛𝑦 ): 7- Determine Pno for the section dimensions h=650mm,
b=500mm, and ρg=0.01:
𝑒𝑥 400
• = 650 = 0.62, 𝛾 = 0.81
ℎ • 𝑃𝑢𝑜 = 𝜑𝐴𝑔 [0.85𝑓𝑐′ 1 − 𝜌𝑔 + 𝜌𝑔 𝑓𝑦 ]
• Use linear interpolation to find Kn@𝛾 = 0.81 → Kn=0.2 • 𝑃𝑢𝑜 = 0.65 500 × 650 [0.85 28 1 − 0.01
𝑃
• 𝐾𝑛 = 𝜑𝑓′𝑢𝐴 → 0.2 = 0.65×28×(650×500)
𝑢 𝑃
× 10−3 → + 0.01(420)] × 10−3 = 5864.7 𝑘𝑁
𝑐 𝑔
8- Substituting 𝑃𝑛𝑥 , 𝑃𝑛𝑦 , and 𝑃𝑛𝑜 in Bresler equation:
𝑃𝑛𝑦 = 1183 𝑘𝑁
1 1 1 1
=𝑃 +𝑃 -𝑃
6- For y direction (bending about x-axis → 𝑃𝑛𝑥 ): 𝑃𝑢 𝑢𝑥 𝑢𝑦 𝑢𝑜
𝑒𝑦 200 500−2×40−2×10−25
• = 500 = 0.4, 𝛾 = = 0.75 1 1 1 1
= 2070.3+ 1183- 5864.7 → 𝑃𝑢 = 863.7 𝑘𝑁
ℎ 500 𝑃𝑢
• Use linear interpolation to find Kn@𝛾 = 0.75 → Kn=0.35 𝑃𝑢 = 863.7 𝑘𝑁 < 1150 kN NOT OK
𝑃𝑢 𝑃𝑢
• 𝐾𝑛 = → 0.35 = × 10−3 → 9- Try new dimensions h=700, b=500, ρ=0.015, and
𝜑𝑓𝑐′ 𝐴𝑔 0.65×28×(650×500)
25mm bars on 4-faces
𝑃𝑛𝑥 = 2070.3 𝑘𝑁

RC1 By Dr. Ahmad B. Malkawi

Example 8 (cont.):
10- For x direction (bending about y-axis → 𝑃𝑛𝑦 ): 12- Determine Pno for the section dimensions
h=700mm, b=500mm, and ρg=0.015:
𝑒𝑥 400
• = 700 = 0.57, 𝛾 = 0.82
ℎ • 𝑃𝑢𝑜 = 𝜑𝐴𝑔 [0.85𝑓𝑐′ 1 − 𝜌𝑔 + 𝜌𝑔 𝑓𝑦 ]
• Use linear interpolation to find Kn@𝛾 = 0.82 → Kn=0.28 • 𝑃𝑢𝑜 = 0.65 500 × 700 [0.85 28 1 − 0.015
𝑃
• 𝐾𝑛 = 𝜑𝑓′𝑢𝐴 → 0.28 = 0.65×28×(700×500)
𝑢 𝑃
× 10−3 → + 0.015(420)] × 10−3 = 6766.5 𝑘𝑁
𝑐 𝑔
13- Substituting 𝑃𝑛𝑥 , 𝑃𝑛𝑦 , and 𝑃𝑛𝑜 in Bresler equation:
𝑃𝑛𝑦 = 1784 𝑘𝑁
1 1 1 1
=𝑃 +𝑃 -𝑃
11- For y direction (bending about x-axis → 𝑃𝑛𝑥 ): 𝑃𝑢 𝑢𝑥 𝑢𝑦 𝑢𝑜
𝑒𝑦 200
• = 500 = 0.4, 𝛾 = 0.75 1 1 1 1
= 2611.7+ 1784- 6766.5 → 𝑃𝑢 = 863.7 𝑘𝑁
ℎ 𝑃𝑢
• Use linear interpolation to find Kn@𝛾 = 0.75 → Kn=0.41 𝑃𝑢 = 1256.8 𝑘𝑁 > 1150 kN OK
𝑃𝑢 𝑃𝑢
• 𝐾𝑛 = → 0.41 = × 10−3 → 14- Select the reinforcement:
𝜑𝑓𝑐′ 𝐴𝑔 0.65×28×(700×500)
𝐴𝑠 = 𝜌𝑔 𝐴𝑔 = 0.015 700 × 500 = 5250 𝑚𝑚2
𝑃𝑛𝑥 = 2611.7 𝑘𝑁
Use 14φ22 →As=5321.4>5250 OK

RC1 By Dr. Ahmad B. Malkawi