Affiliation:
1. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA
Abstract
Rebar cages are the skeletons of reinforced concrete structures. These temporary structures consist of longitudinal and transverse reinforcing bars connected by tie-wires. Given the relatively low strength of tie-wire connections, replacing tie-wires with mechanical connectors such as U-bolts can improve the stability and strength of rebar cages. This paper aims to understand the behavior of large prefabricated rebar cages reinforced with mechanical U-bolt connectors through experimental and analytical investigations. Twenty-six full-scale experimental tests are performed on five different underground pile-shaft rebar cages with tie-wire and U-bolt connectors to determine their behavior during different site handling conditions. The data obtained from the experiments are used to develop and calibrate detailed finite element models that can predict the complex response behavior of rebar cages reinforced with U-bolt connectors. The results show that U-bolt connectors can effectively ensure rebar cage integrity even under extreme loading conditions. Additionally, it is concluded that the presence of U-bolt connectors allows for the elimination of internal stiffening elements, which are common for large rebar cages, adding to the simplicity and efficiency of the construction process. The results of this study can be used as a basis for establishing analysis, design, fabrication, and handling guidelines for rebar cages.
Funder
ASCE Construction Institute
Charles Pankow Foundation
Association of Drilled Shaft Contractors
Association of Foundation Drilling
Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute
Harris Rebar/Nucor
Keller Companies
Kiewit Corporation
Parsons Corporation
P.J.’s Rebar
Siefert Associates LLC
Williams Form Engineering
Subject
Fluid Flow and Transfer Processes,Computer Science Applications,Process Chemistry and Technology,General Engineering,Instrumentation,General Materials Science
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