Design of steel wire loop connection for precast reinforced concrete structural components

Abstract

Loop connection for precast Reinforced Concrete (RC) structural components using U-bars is advocated by researchers on the grounds of simple mechanism and strength. However, the system is difficult to materialize on-site in the lieu of which U-bars may be replaced with steel wire ropes, which o er a more suitable system in terms of convenience during the installation process. However, the literature is not rich on design requirements and methodology for loop connection. Thus, a theoretical study was undertaken to formulate the design methodology for the loop connection formed using steel wire ropes. The behavior of loop connection is governed by tension and shear, influenced by characteristics of wire ropes, grout, and vertical transverse bar. A design example is illustrated for the loop connection between precast wall-columns and the corresponding validation is demonstrated through numerical analysis and performance comparison with monolithic system and U-bar connection. The advantage of this research lies in the application of the systematic design approach with emphasis on all the influencing parameters of steel wire loop connection for precast components. It is expected that practicing engineers find the proposed design methodology useful in designing the loop connection for precast components.