Innovative idea to increase bearing capacity and ductility of concrete columns by using rectangular spiral reinforcement

The columns are one of the most important members of the construction structures, which is responsible for the bearing and transfer of loads to the structure. The behavior of compressive RC members is generally based on the concrete strength and ductility of concrete which with confining concrete can improve both of them. Researchers have also been keen to integrate the reinforcement of the concrete columns in order to simplify construction and save on structural and economic costs. Based on these mentioned cases, in the present study, a new type of configuration is presented using rectangular spiral reinforcements with continuous hoops for rectangular concrete columns, which is examined by numerical model. For the modelling and analysis of the new columns, the finite element method has been used with the Abaqus software by using of a verification experimental sample. The parameters studied are various arrangement of using rectangular spiral reinforcement, number and pitch of spirals. Bearing Capacity and Ductility Capacity of the New Models were compared with previous designs using circular spiral reinforcements. According to the results, the use of such a configuration, in addition to simplifying the structural and construction, has increased the bearing capacity and the ductility of the columns.