The partially fixed mast is a common configuration of reinforced concrete structures, which nevertheless remains poorly documented in the literature. Yet a partial fixity is a delicate assumption to handle.
This example offers a review of the data input process and the justification of such a calculation, according to the general EC2 method reduced to one critical section (MG1). It especially details various reminders and points of attention to monitor in order to successfully perform the design.
The end of the example shows the exact solution to the problem and the possible optimisation made possible by the integral general method (IGM).
- Nicolas DUBREIL
- 11 mins
This article presents the benefits of a nonlinear approach for the analysis of reinforced concrete line elements, intended to determine the unique solution of the mechanical problem — when it exists — by enforcing flexural and axial deformation compatibility at every point along the member.
Inspired by the General Method and fully covered by Eurocode 2, this approach, referred to as the “Integral General Method” or IGM, opens up possibilities for analysing and optimising many common situations, from slender columns to continuous members in combined bending and compression.
- Nicolas DUBREIL
- 11 mins
Analysis of a little‑known axial phenomenon: the elongation of simply‑bent RC beams under gravity loads, a direct consequence of reinforced‑concrete behaviour.
This article introduces the first axial effect observable in flexural reinforced‑concrete elements: the elongation of simply‑bent beams under gravity loads.
This phenomenon—often overlooked despite being non‑negligible—results directly from the fundamental behaviour of reinforced concrete, especially once cracking develops. Understanding it is essential before rigorously addressing the effects of thermal expansion and shrinkage.
It forms the first part of the series “Axial behaviour of flexural reinforced‑concrete elements” (1/4).
- Nicolas DUBREIL
- 6 mins
Thermo‑mechanical analysis of RC sections: constitutive laws, effects of thermal expansion and thermal gradients, and cases where EC2 requires their consideration.
This article examines the thermo‑mechanical behaviour of reinforced‑concrete members subjected to thermal expansion or thermal gradients, based on the assumptions of Eurocode 2.
It first analyses how the constitutive laws of concrete and steel are modified and how the mechanical diagrams of RC sections (strains, stresses, internal forces) evolve under thermal actions.
The article then reviews the regulatory situations in which thermal effects must be considered, illustrates the physical behaviour that can be observed, and presents the gravity/thermal concomitances that may become governing.
This is the second part of the series “Axial behaviour of flexural reinforced‑concrete elements” (2/4).
- Nicolas DUBREIL
- 8 mins
The relationship between the structural works package and the special foundations package relies largely on the load transfer schedule which, beyond a simple listing, can play a structuring role in the project’s design and in managing the interface between the packages.
When it specifies the allocation of pile execution tolerances and the mechanical assumptions at the interface, the load transfer schedule helps to clarify the boundary between the packages and to secure the design.
Through a topic that is sometimes not explicitly addressed, this article highlights real geometric, structural, and contractual impacts that are worth documenting from the outset.
- Nicolas DUBREIL
- 16 mins