Optimizing Model Factor For The Prediction Of Actual Behavior Of Full Scale Reinforced Concrete Beam

Scaling rules can be effectively applied to predict the behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) structure based on the properties of an identical model with scaled geometry. Physical or numerical modelling serves as a fundamental approach to explain the dynamics of engineering system. In this scientific article, optimising model factor for the prediction of actual behaviour of full-scale RC beam was investigated. Eight (8) model RC beams with scale factors ranging from 2 to 8 was produced and tested in bending based on Buckingham pi theorem. RC beam which had been investigated experimental by Kachlakev and McCurry [21] was used as the full-scale beam. Results showed that scale factors 2 to 5 were adequately large and gave the best prediction concerning similarity with the full-scale beam, the models proved satisfactorily yielding best results in terms of similarity to the actual prototype. When performing model tests for RC structure, the effect of the scale factors must at all times be taken into account and scale effect, the size effect has to be well thought out, and a clear difference must be reached between the two. As well, little variation in the material properties could alter the behaviour. Load-deflection curve for the prototype and model beam exhibits a similar trend, with an initial linear relationship