Structural and physical evaluation of a reinforced beam using strain gauges

Abstract

In this research project, the deformations in the longitudinal and transverse reinforcing steel of a reinforced concrete beam with 2f½” were estimated. Additionally, the displacements in the center of the span were measured together with the loads, which generated the cracking of the beam of dimensions 180 mm×240 mm×3100 mm. Displacement were performed using a linear variable displacement transducer, and strain gauges were used to measure deformations. Finally, the applied load's measurements were obtained with a load cell Pinzuar/Model-100/20T equipment. The physical-mechanical properties of the concrete used were determined through compressive strength tests at 28 days and modulus of elasticity. For this purpose, a load-bearing frame was used to support the beam at three points for load application. The data was collected directly on the Quantum/X2 equipment and analyzed with the help of the Catman/AP software. The maximum deformations found in the bending test at three points in the reinforced concrete beam were not greater than 8483 µm/mm, presenting a failure in the center of the beam due to the creep of the tensile steel for a maximum load of 3115 Kg. Finally, the physical behavior of the reinforced concrete beam with applying a load allows evaluating and optimizing this kind of systems.