COLUMNS

Definition
Types
Reinforcement
Load Condition

Length effect
Reinforcement
a) Longitudinal or main reinforcement
a) Lateral reinforcement

Types based on Load Condition

i. Axially loaded column
ii. Axial load & bending moment
a) B.M in one direction
b) B.M in both direction

Types based on Length Effect

i.
ii.

Short Column
Slender or long column

Design of short column (Axially loaded)

In WSD method

P = fcAc+fsAs

(fs = nfc)

= fcAc+nfcAs
= fc[Ac+nAs]
= fc[Ag-As+nAs]

= fc[Ag+As(n-1)]
In USD method
Nominal load= Pn 0.85fc A c A st fy

0.85f 1 f

0.85fc A g A st A st fy
Ag

g y

A st
Ag

Capacity reduction factor

0.65 for tied column

0.7 for spirally reinforced column
Pu = Pn

For columns subjected to B.M. in addition to axial load,

addition capacity reduction factor

0.80 for tied column

0.85 for spirally reinforced column

Ties design
Spacing of ties > (i) 16 times dia. of main bar.
(ii) 48 times dia. of ties
(iii) Least dimension of column
Normally # 3 or # 4 bars are used for ties.

Some recommendations of ACI code

In tied column, minimum four bars must be used.

In spirally reinforced column, six bars must be used.
Cross-Sectional area of longitudinal reinforcement is 1 to 8
percent of gross sectional area.
In no case g be less than 0.005.

Purposes of lateral reinforcements

To hold the longitudinal bars in position.
to prevent the highly stressed, slender longitudinal bars
from buckling outward by bursting the thin concrete cover.

Design of spiral reinforcement

Due to spiral reinforcement, triaxial compression increase

the strength of concrete. From experiments, it is found
f1 fc 4.1f2

(1)

Design of spiral reinforcement

The amount of spiral reinforcement is defined using a spiral
reinforcement ratio, s , equal to the ratio of the volume of
the spiral reinforcement to the volume of the core measured
out to out of the spirals, enclosed by the spiral.
A L
For one turn of the spiral

(2)
A L
Where
sp

sp

Asp = Area of the spiral bar

2
Dsp
4

(2a)

Dsp = Diameter of the spiral bar

Lsp = Length of one turn of the spiral = Dc
Dc = Diameter of the core, out to out of the spiral
Ac = Area of the core
Lc = Spiral pitch = S
Thus

( A sp )Dc
4A sp

sDc
2
Dc x s
4

(3 )

Design of spiral reinforcement

From horizontal force equilibrium
2fspAsp = f2Dc s
(4)
From eq.(3) & (4)
4 A sp
2fSp A sp f2 s
ss
f
f2 sp s
2

(5 )

Strength of a column before the shell spalls

Po 0.85 fc A g A st fy A st
( 6)
and the strength after the shell spalls

P2 = 0.85f1(Ac-Ast) + fyAst

(7)

If P2 is equal to P0 then
0.85 fc A g A st 0.85 f1 A c A st

Since Ast is small as compared to Ag or Ac, we can disregard it

f1

A gfc
Ac

(8)

Putting the value of f2 from eq.(5) into eq.(1) and then value
of f1 from eq(1) into eq.(8) we get
fsps A g fc

fc 4.1

Ac
2

Taking fsp equal to the yield strength of the spiral bar fy,
rearranging and rounding down the coefficient gives.
Ag
f
s 0.45
1 c
Ac
fy

(9 )

Design requirements for column spirals are presented in

ACI requires that in cast-in-place construction spirals be at
least # 3 in diameter.

The spacing is determined by three rules.

1. Second maximum load is equal to or exceed the initial
maximum load.
Putting the value of Asp from eq.(2a) into (3) and then putting
the value of s from eq.(3) into eq.(9), we get
d2
sp f y
s
A

0.45Dc fc g 1
Ac

2. For the spirals to bind the core effectively they must be

spaced relatively close together. ACI limits the clear spacing
between spirals to not more than 3 in.

3. To avoid problems in placing the concrete, spirals should

be as far as possible. The clear spacing between spirals
1
1
should not be less than
times the size of the coarse
3
aggregate and never less than 1 in.

Behaviour of spirally reinforced & tied columns

Problem
Design a square tied to support an axial D.L = 130k and axial
live load = 180k. Assume longitudinal steel to be 2%. Design
for fc = 4000 psi fy = 60000 psi

Solution
Pu = 1.4 (130)+1.7 (180) = 488 k

2
Pu = 0.8[0.85fc(Ag-Ast)+Astfy]
A st
Ag
100
Ag = 192.3 in2
Use 14 x 14 (Ag =196 in2 )

Longitudinal Bars
488 = (0.8) (0.7) [ 0.85 (4) (196-Ast) + 60Ast]
Ast = 3.62 in2

Use 6 # 7 ( 3.61 in2)

Design of Ties
i.

48 x

ii.

16

3
18"
8

7
14"
8

iii. Least dimension = 14

Problem
Design an axially loaded spirally reinforced circular column for a
gravity dead load of 320 K and a live load of 360k using
approx. 3.5% reinforcement. Use fc = 4000 psi fy = 60,000 psi

Solution
Pu = (1.4) (320) + (1.7) (360) = 1060 k
Pu=(0.85)(0.75)[0.85fc(Ag-Ast)+Astfy]

Ag = 308 in2

d = 19.8 in

Use 20 dia. column with Ag = 314 in2

Ast = 10.45 in2
Ag
fc
s 0.45
1
A
c
fy

Ac = 227 in2

s= 0.0115

Ast=0.035Ag

Solution
A sp

s dc s
4

for # 3

s = 2.25

for # 4

s = 4.1

4 A sp
s dc

So
Use # 3 bar spiral at s = 2.25

but

1" S 3"

Eccentrically Loaded Column

i.

ii.

Vertical
loads
which
are
applied
eccentrically
through
an
eccentric
connection.

Position of column

iii. Application of horizontal forces, resulting from earthquake

and wind loads
iv. Disposition of the live load

Strength Interaction Diagram

Pn = Cc + Cs - T
Cc = 0.85fcba = 0.85fc1cb
Cs = As(fs 0.85fc)
T = Asfs

Since a=1c

Strength Interaction Diagram

h
h a
h

Mn Pn e Cc C s d' T d
2
2 2
2

d
dc
s u
s 1

u
c
c

d
1 s
c
u

u
c c b d

y
u

dc
fs uE s

for tensile steel

For compression steel

c d

s u

c d
fs uE s

a 1c

The axial force Pn and moment Mn corresponding to the

selected neutral axis location can be calculated from above
equations. Different selection give different pairs of Pn and
Mn and graph drawn is called strength interaction diagram.

Maximum strength in axial compression-ACI Code.

Prior to 1977 , for compression members eccentricity
minimum is 0.05h for spirally reinforced and 0.10h for tied
columns, but at least 1 in.

Since 1977, ACI code prescribes the maximum axial load

nominal strength Pn(max) = 0.8Po for tied columns and 0.85Po
for spirally reinforced columns while
Po = 0.85fc(AgAst) + Astfy
For high slenderness ratio, minimum eccentricity to be used
is 0.6 + 0.03h.

Problem

Determine the eccentric compressive strength Pb and Mb and

corresponding eb for balanced condition of failure for section of
column shown in fig. below. fc=3000 psi and fy=50,000psi
xb
0.003

d
0.003 y
0.003 21.6
13.72
0.003 0.001724
where a 1x b 11.662

xb

Solution

Solution
Cc = 0.85fcba = 0.85 (3000) (15) (11.662)
= 446071.5 lb
T = Asfy = 2.35 x 50000 = 117500 lb
Comparing similar triangles
s
13.72 2.4

0.003
13.72
s 0.002475 y (0.001724)
s A s fy 0.85fc

2.35(50,000 0.85 3000)

C s 111507.5 lb
Fy 0
Pb Cc C s T
446071.5 111507.5 117500
440079 lb

Solution

Taking moments about N.A.

h a
h

Pb eb Cc Cs d T 2.4
2 2
2

24 11.662
24

440079 eb 446071.5

111507
.
5

2
.
4

2
2
2

24

117500
2 .4
2

eb 11.25
Mb Pb eb 4950287.084 lb.in.

Problem
Determine the nominal compressive strength Pn for previous
problem for eccentricity e=8

Solution
e (8) < eb (11.25)
Therefore compression control criteria is valid.
Cs = As(fy 0.85fc) = 111.51 k

Cc = 0.85fcba = 0.85 x 3 x 15 x 0.85x

= 32.5 x
T = Asfs = As s Es
Comparing similar triangles
s
21.6 x

0.003
x
21.6 x 0.003
s
x

Solution

21.6 x 0.003
T 2.35 29 106

4416.12 204.45x
T
x
Taking moments about Pn

4416.12 204.45x
a

C s 4 2.4
21.6 4 Cc 4 0
x

4416.12 204.45x
111.514 2.4
21.6 4
x

0.85x

325x
4 0
2

x 3 9.4 x 2 247.47x 5624 0

 Synthetic division

16

-9.4
16
6.6

247.47
105.6
353.07

-5624
5649.12
25.12

for

15.96

5620.59

-3.41

for

15.97

5627.71

3.71

5624.15

0.15

for
15.965
Cs = 111.51 k

Cc = 32.5x = 32.5 x 15.965

T = 72.16 k
Fy = 0
Pn = 111.51 + 518.86 72.16
= 558.21 k
M = Pne = 446,5680 lb.in

518.86 k

Problem
Determine nominal compressive strength Pn in previous
problem for e=20

Solution
e(20) > eb(11.25)
Therefore tension control criteria will be valid
T=Asfy=2.35 x 50000 = 117500 lb = 117.5 k
Cc = 0.85fcba = 32.5x
CS = As (fy 0.85fc) = 111.51k
Fy = 0
Taking moment about tension steel

d d'
a

Pn e

C
d

Cs (d d' )
c
2
2

Pn Cc Cs T
32.5 x 111.51 117.5
Pn 32.5 x 6

Solution
x2 + 18.82x 167.75 = 0
x = 6.6

and

-25.4 x

Pn = 211.5 lb
s
x d'

0.003
x

s = 0.00199

> y 0.001724

So assumption was O.K.

Problem
Find Pn for the section shown with e=8
fc = 3000 psi fy = 50000 psi

Solution

1
1000

Solution
Cs1 = As1(fy - 0.85fc)
= 2.35(50000 0.85 x 3000) x

1
1000

= 111.5 k

Comparing the similar triangles

s 2
x 12

0.003
x
x 12
s 2 0.003

C s 2 A s 2 fs 2 0.85fc
1.57s 2E s 0.85fc

Cc

3000
87x 12
1.57
0.85

x
1000

132.58x 1639.08

x
0.85fcba

32.5 x
T A s fs A s sE s

Solution
From similarity of triangles
s
d x

0.003
x

21.6 x
s 0.003

21.6 x
T 2.35 29 106 0.003

4416.12 204.45x

Taking moments about Pn

a

Cs1 4 2.4 Cc
4 Cs 2 (8) T( d 4) 0
2

x 3 9.4 x 2 324.2x 6572.82 0

Solution

x = 15.61
Verifying assumption
s1
x 2.4

0.003
x
s1 0.00254 y (0.001724)

OK

Solution
s 2
x 12

0.003
x
s 2 0.0007 y (0.001724)
s
d x

0.003
x
s 0.00115 y (0.001724)

Cs1 = 111.5 k
C s2

132 .58 x 1639 .08

27.58 k
x

4461 .12 1639 .08

78.45 k
x

Fy = 0
Pn = Cs1 + Cs2 + Cc - T
= 111.5 + 27.58 + 507.32 78.45
Pn = 567.95 K

OK

OK

Whitney Formula Compression Control Criteria

Taking moments about tension steel

d d'
a

Pn e

C
d

Cs (d d' )
c
2
2

For balanced condition Whitney assumed

a = 0.54 d

Whitney Formula Compression Control Criteria

Cc 0.85 fcba 0.459bdfc

a
0.54d

Cc d 0.459bdfc d

2
2

1
fcbd2
3
C s A s fy
1
2

fc bd
A s fy ( d d)
3
Pn

1
1
e ( d d) e ( d d)
2
2

Whitney Formula Compression Control Criteria

A s fy
fcbh
Pn

3eh
3h( d d )
e
1

2
2
d
2d
( d d) 2
For previous problem e = 8 b = 15 h = 24
fc = 3000 psi
fy = 50,000 psi d = 21.6 d = 2.4 Pn = 525.35 k
While by static equilibrium Pn = 559.94 k
If e = 0 then load is axial with no moment. So let Pn = Po

P0 0.85 fcbh 2A s fy

fcbh
P0
2 A s fy
'
3h( d d )
2d2
2d2
fcb
2 A s fy
'
3( d d )

(1)

( 2)

Whitney Formula Compression Control Criteria

Comparing (1) & ( 2)
2d2
0.85h
3( d d' )
3h( d d' )
1

1.18
2
2d
0.85
Making substitution
A s fy
bhfc
Pn

3eh
e

1
.
18
0 .5
2
d
d d

(3 )

This is Whitney formula for symmetrical steel with no

correction for concrete displaced by compression steel.
With formula (3), with the data of for previous problem
Pn=576.43 k

Approximate Formula-Tension Control Case

Assuming that the strain in the compression steel is larger
than yield strain
T = Asfy
Cs = As(fy 0.85fc)
Cc = 0.85fcb1x

From force equilibrium

Pn = 0.85fcb1x + As(fy 0.85fc)- Asfy

Let
m

fy

0.85 fc
A s

bd

As

bd
thus

Approximate Formula-Tension Control Case

fy

Pn 0.85 fcb1x bd
10.85 fc bdf y
0.85 fc

0.85 fc b1x bd(m 1) bdm

1x

0.85 fcbd
(m 1) m
d

Taking moment about tension steel

1x

Pn e 0.85 fc b1x d
A s ( fy 0.85 fc )(d d)
2

1x
Pn e 0.85 fcbd 1x
(m 1)(d d)
2d

Putting the value of Pn

Approximate Formula-Tension Control Case

1x
1x
x

e
(m 1) m 1
2
d

d

(m 1)(d d)

1x e1

2d d

1 x e (m 1) e m

(m 1)(d d) 0

e1 2d
2d
x x
2 1 2
1
1
d
2d
2 em e em (m 1)(d d) 0
1
2

21e 21d
x x
2
2
1
1
em( ) e (m 1)(d d)2d

0
2
1
2

Approximate Formula-Tension Control Case

Solving the quadratic equation for x
x
2

2 e 2 d
12 21
1
1

21e 21d
em( ) e (m 1)(d d)2d

12
12
1

d e
2

d e
8d(m 1)(d d) e em( )
2

12
1
2
2

2
d e em

2
e
e

2
d

(
m

1
)
1

1
1

x
1
d
d
d

2
d
d

d
1
d

12

e
1
x
d

d
1

2
d

e e
e

(
m

1
)
1

m
(

d
d d

12
1

Approximate Formula-Tension Control Case

Substituting this value in Pn

e'

'
(
m

1
)

Pn 0.85fc ' bd
2
e'
d'
e'

1 2 (m m ) ' (m 1)1
d
d
d
When = then
2

e' e'
e'
d'
Pn 0.85fc ' bd 1
1 2 (m 1)1
d d
d
d

When no compression steel is present

2

e'
e'
2me '

Pn 0.85 fcbd m 1 1

d
d
d

Design of Short
Columns
Factors
affecting
the
choice
of
columns
Choice of Columns
Type
Fig. Below gives the
comparison
of
interaction diagrams for
three columns, each
having same fc & fy,
same total longitudinal
steel, Ast, same gross
area, Ag. The columns
differ in arrangement of
reinforcement.

Choice of Columns Type

For eccentricity ratio, e/h, less than 0.1, spiral column is more
efficient in terms of load capacity. This economy tends to be
offset by more expensive formwork and by the cost of spiral.
For eccentricity ratio, e/h greater than 0.2,a tied column with
bars in the faces farthest from the axis of bending is the
most efficient.
Tied columns with bars in four faces are used for e/h ratios of
less than about 0.2 and also when moment exist about both
axis.
Spiral columns are relatively infrequent in non seismic
areas.

Choice of material properties and reinforcement

ratios
In small buildings, the concrete in the columns is selected to
be equal to that in the floors. Frequently, this will be 3000 psi or
3500 psi.
In tall buildings, the concrete strength in the columns is often
higher than that in the floors, to reduce that column size.
In tall buildings, it is not uncommon to use 3750 psi concrete
in the floors and 1.4 x 3750 5000 psi concrete in the columns
In vast majority of column, grade 60 reinforcement is used.

Ties are frequently of grade 40 steel.

ACI Code limits the area, Ast, of longitudinal reinforcement
in tied and spiral columns to not less than 0.01 times the
gross area, Ag and not more than 0.08 Ag.
Under sustained loads, creep of concrete gradually transfers
load from the concrete to the reinforcement

Choice of material properties and reinforcement

ratios
Although the code allows a maximum steel ratio of 0.08, it
is generally very difficult to place this amount of steel in a
column, particularly if lapped splices are used.
Generally roughly 3 to 5% reinforcement. In addition, the
most economical tied column section generally involves t of
1 to 2% .
Exceptions to this are lower columns in tall buildings, where
bundles of bars can be used.
The minimum number of bars in a rectangular columns is 4
and in a circular column or spiral column is 6.

Almost universally, an even number of bars is used in a

rectangular column so that the column is symmetrical about
the axis of bending.
Almost universally, all the bars are of the same size.

Estimating the column size

There is no simple rule for estimating the column size, since

there may different axial load and moment.
For small values of M, the column size is governed by the
maximum axial load capacity given by
Po = 0.85fcAg + Ast (fy 0.85fc)
Simplifying and rounding for tied column
Pu
A
A g ( trial)
where
t st
0.45( fc t fy )
Ag

for spiral columns

Pu
A g ( trial)
0.55( fc t fy )
Both the above equations will tend to underestimate the
column size if moments are present.
Although the ACI code does not specify a minimum column
size, the minimum dimension should not be less than 8 and
preferably not less than 10. The diameter of a spiral column
should not be less than about 12.

Bar Spacing Requirements

ACI Code requires a clear concrete cover of not less than
1
1 in . to the ties or spirals in columns.
2

The column concrete is placed in the core inside the bars

and must be able to flow out between the bars to fill the
space between the bars and the form.

To facilitate this , the ACI code requires that the minimum

clear distance between longitudinal bars shall not be less
than the larger of
i.

1.5 times the longitudinal bar diameter

ii.
iii.

1.5 in
1
1 times the size of the coarse aggregate.
3

Because the maximum number of bars occurs at the

splices, the spacing of bars at this location generally
governs.

Reinforcement Splices

In most buildings non-seismic zones, the longitudinal bars in

the columns are spliced just above each floor as shown in fig

Reinforcement Splices
In large columns with large bars, but splices or mechanical
splices may be used.

Types of lap splices required if all bars are lap spliced at every
floor

Problem
For rectangular tied column with bars equally distance
along four faces select the reinforcement.
Given
Factored axial load Pu = 560 Kips
Factored moment Mu = 3920 Kips. in.

fc = 4 ksi
fy = 60 ksi Nominal max.
size of aggregate = l

Unsupported length of column lu = 10 ft

Column is braced against sides way

Solution
Step-1

Determine column section size Given h=20

Step-2

Check whether slenderness

ratio klu
is less than
h
critical
value.
If
so,
slenderness effects can be
neglected.
If
not,
slenderness effects must
be
considered
by
magnifying moment Mu by
factor
M1
Compute M
and read
2
critical value of klu
h

b=16

In this case it is given

that M1=3920 k.in.
but M2 is not
known
However
for
rectangular
columns, for all
values of M1/M2,
slenderness may
be neglected

where

klu
6 .6
h

Solution
klu
Compute
and
h
compare
with
critical
value; determine whether
slenderness effects must
be considered.

For
columns
braced against
sidesway k=1.0
Given:lu=10 ft=120
klu 120

6 6 .6
h
20
slenderness effects
may
be
neglected.

Solution
Step-3

Determine
reinforcement ratio
g using known
values of variables
on
appropriate
interaction
diagrams
and
compute required xsectional area Ast of
longitudinal
reinforcement
pu
Compute
Ag
Compute

Mu
A gh

Ag=bxh=20x16
=320 in2

pu 560

1.75 ksi
A g 320
Mu
3920

0.61 ksi
A gh 320 20

Solution

h5
Estimate
h

20 5

0.75
20

Determine appropriate
interaction diagrams

For a rectangular tied

column with bars
along four faces,
fc=4 ksi fy=60 ksi and
an estimated of 0.75

pu
Mu
Read g for
and
Ag
A gh

Pu
1.75 and
For
Ag
Mu
0.61
A gh

g=0.04

Solution
Compute required Ast
from Ast=gAg
Step-4

A.

Required Ast=0.04x320
=12.8 in2

Select optimum
reinforcement
Assume trial quantities

12

16

2/face 3/face 4/face 5/face

B.

Determine smallest bar

size to provide Ast

C.

List resulting Ast , in2

#18

#10

#9

16.00 18.00 15.24 16.00

A st
Ag

0.05

check that 0.01 g 0.08

OK

Compute resulting g

#14

0.056 0.048

OK

OK

0.05

OK

Solution
D.

E.

Refine and if necessary,

repeat from step-3

0.69

0.72

0.75

0.76

for 8,12 and 16 bars is close

enough to estimate of 0.75,
but if 4 bars of #18 appear
to be optimum choice, g
should be interpolated from
interaction diagrams for
=0.6 and =0.75

Check whether reinforcement

Not
Not
No No
can be accommodated
Permitted Permitted
along smaller face with
normal lap splice

Solution
F.

Determine tie spacing as

least of
-16 longitudinal bar diameters

36.1 27.1 20.3 18.05

-48 tie bar diameters

24.0 24.0 18.0 18.0

-Least dimension of column

16

16

16

16

-Select most cost-efficient

First
reinforcement
choice
Use 12#10 bars with bearing splices and #3 ties spaced not more
than 16 in. apart. Choice is based on minimum steel
requirement.

Problem
Design of rectangular tied column section subject to very small
design moment (Minimum eccentricity=0.10 x column thickness
h is found to govern.)
Given:

Factored axial load Pu=940 kips

Factored moment at top of column=480 k.in.
fc = 5 ksi

fy=60 ksi

Nominal max. size of aggregate = 1.0 in.

Effective column length klu = 90 in.

Solution
Preliminary step. Determine which value of
eccentricity e governs:
Columns should be
designed for greatest of
Mu
Pu
(b) For tied columns e(b)=0.1h

(a ) e ( a )

(c) e(c)=1 in about either

principle axis
(A)

Compute e(a) and compare

with e(c)

e( a )

Mu 480

Pu 940
0.51 in.

e( c ) 1.0 in. e( a ) 0.51 in.

Solution
(B)

Compute e(b) and compare

greater of e(a) and e(c) with
e(b)

e(b) = 0.1h
e(c) = 1.0 in
For e(b) > e(c)

Since column size h is

0.10h > 1.0
unknown, determine
1 .0
range of value of h for
h
, h 10 in
0 .1
which e(b) will be greater
than e(c) and judge
Design h will probably be
whether design h will fall
greater than 10 in.
in that range. When trial h
Assume that e(b)
is selected, in step-1,
governs and design
check whether e(b) does in
column for e=0.1h.
fact govern.
When h is selected
in step-1, check that
it is greater than 10
in.

Solution
Step-1

(A)

(B)

Determine trial column

section size h
corresponding to
known values of
variables on
appropriate
interaction diagram.
Assume value of 0.60
or 0.75
Determine appropriate
interaction diagram

Known:
e(b)=0.1h

e/h=0.10

Design g=0.04

Assume =0.75
For a square tied column
with steel equally
distributed along four
faces, fc=5 ksi fy=60
ksi and an assumed
of 0.75

Solution
(C)

(D)

(E)

Pu
Read for A g e/h=0.10
and the desired steel ratio.

Compute estimated gross

area Ag from
1
A g Pu
Pu
Ag
Compute trial column size h
from h A g and check
whether eccentricity
condition assumed to
govern does in fact govern.

Diagram shows
Pu
3.56 ksi
Ag

Ag

940
264 in2
3.56

h 264 16.2 in
h 10" so e 0.10h
governs

Try h 16" in

Solution
(Step-2)

Check whether
slenderness ratio
klu
is less than
h
critical value. If so,
slenderness effects
may be neglected. If
not, slenderness
effects must be
considered by
magnifying moment
Mu by factor

Solution
(A)

M1
Compute M and
2

read critical
kl
value of u
h

In this case, M1 and M2

are not known, but for
rectangular columns,
M1
for all values of M
2
slenderness may be
neglected where
klu
6 .6
h
klu
90

5 .6 6 .6
h
16

Therefore slenderness
effects may be
neglected.

Solution
(Step-3)

(A)
(B)

Determine reinforcement
ratio g using known
values of variables
on appropriate
interaction diagram
and compute
required crosssectional area Ast of
longitudinal
reinforcement.

Known:
Pu=940 kips
Pu
940

3.67 kips / in2

A g 16 x 16

h5
Estimate
h

e
16 5
0.10
0.69
h
16

Determine appropriate
interaction
diagrams

For a rectangular column

with steel along four faces
fc=5 ksi, fy=60 ksi and an
estimated of 0.69, Two

Solution
(C)

Pu
Read g for A and e/h
g

Diagrams are chosen with

=.60 and =0.75
Pu
For A 3.67 ksi
g

Compute required Ast

Ast=gAg
(Step-4)
(A)
(B)

e/h=0.10

and
=0.60

g=0.047

=0.75
For =0.69

g=0.044
g=0.045

Required
Ast=0.045(16)2=11.5 in2

Select Optimum
reinforcement
Assume trial bar
quantities
Determine smallest bar
size to provide Ast

12

16

#18

#11

#9

#8

Solution
(B)

List resulting Ast , in2

(C)

Select tie size

(D)

(E)

16.00
obviously not
a choice

Refine for bar and tie size

and using this ,
interpolate for accurate
g
Re-compute required
Ast and compare
with Ast provided
(from B above)
Check whether reinforcement
can be accommodate in
column with normal lap
splice.

12.48

12.00

12.64

#4

#3

#3

0.66

0.7

0.7

0.046

0.045

0.045

11.8

11.5

11.5

OK

OK

OK

Solution
(F)

Determine tie spacing as

least of
-16 longitudinal bar
diameters, in
-48 tie bar diameters, in
-Least column
dimension, in

22.6

18.0

16.0

24.0

18.0

18.0

16.0

16.0

16.0

Solution Use 16x16 column with 12#9 bars with normal lap
splices and #3 ties spaced 16 apart.

Problem
For minimum longitudinal reinforcement (g=0.01) and column
section dimension h=16 , select column dimension b and
reinforcement for a rectangular tied column with bars on end
faces only.

Given:
Factored axial load Pu=660 kips
Factored moment Mu=2790 k.in.

fc=4 ksi

fy=60 ksi

Nominal maximum size of aggregate=1 in.

Slenderness effects may be neglected because klu is known to be

h
below critical value.

Solution
Step-1 Determine trial column
dimension b
corresponding to known
values of variables on
appropriate interaction
diagrams.
(A) Assume a series of trial
column sizes b, in., and
compute Ag=b x h
(B) Compute
(C) Compute

Pu
Ag

,ksi

Mu
,ksi
A gh

Pu=660 kips Mu=2790 k.in

g=0.01

fc=4 ksi
h=16

fy=60 ksi

24

26

28

384

416

448

660
384

660
416

660
448

=1.72

=1.59

=1.47

2790
384 x 16

=0.45

2790
2790
416 x 16 448 x 16

=0.42

=0.39

Solution
(D) Estimate

h5
h

0.69

0.69

0.69

(E) Determine appropriate

interaction diagram
(F) Read g for

Pu
Mu
and
Ag
A gh

for

= 0.60

0.022

0.017

0.013

for

= 0.75

0.018

0.014

0.011

0.020

0.015

0.012

Interpolate for = 0.69

And select dimension

corresponding to g
nearest desired value of
g=0.01

Try a 16 x 28 in. column

Solution
Step-2: Check whether
slenderness ratio klu is less
h
than critical value. If so,
slenderness effects may
be neglected. If not,
slenderness effects must
be considered by
magnifying moment Mu by
factor .
Step-3: Compute required xsection area Ast of
longitudinal reinforcement.
Step-4: Select optimum
reinforcement.
(A) Assume trial bar quantities

klu
h

Given that
is below critical
value, slenderness effects
may be neglected.

Required
Ast=0.012x16x28=5.4 in2
4

10

12

2/face 3/face 4/face 5/face 6/face

Solution
(B) Determine smallest bar
size to provide Ast

#11

List resulting Ast, in2

6.24

(C) List tie size

(D) Refine for bar and tie size,
and using this interpolate
for accurate g; if g differs
from that associated with
dimension chosen in step
1F, re-compute required Ast.
in2. and compare with Ast
provided; if necessary, revise
selection of bars.

#4

#9

#8

#7

6.00

6.32

6.00

#3

#3

#3

0.66

0.70

0.70

0.71

0.012

0.012

0.012

0.012

OK

OK

OK

OK

#7

7.20

Solution
(E) Check whether
reinforcement can be
accommodated with
normal lap splices
(F) Determine tie spacing as least of
-16 longitudinal bar diameters, in.
-48 tie bar diameters, in
-Least dimension of column, in
(G) Select minimum g
reinforcement.

OK

OK

OK

OK

22.6

18.0

16.0

14.0

24.0

18.0

18.0

18.0

16.0

16.0

16.0

16.0

First
choice

Try 16x28 in. column with 6#9 bars and #3 ties spaced not more
than 16 in. apart.

Problem
For a circular spiral column, select column section diameters and
choose reinforcement. Use g 0.04

Given:
Factored axial load Pu=940 kips
Factored moment at top of column
Mu=480 k.in.
fc=5ksi
fy=60 ksi
Maximum size of aggregate=1.0 in.
Effective length of column klu=90 in.

Solution
Preliminary step:
Determine which value of
eccentricity e governs.
Columns should be
designed for greatest of
Mu
e

(a) ( a )
Pu
(b) For spirally reinforced
columns
e(b)=0.05h
(c) e(c)=1.0 in.
(A) Compute e(a) and compare
with e(c)

Mu 480
e( a )

0.51 in.
Pu 940
e( c ) 1.0 in e( a ) 0.51 in.

Solution
(B) Compute e(b) and compare
greater of e(a) and e(c) with
e(b). Since column
thickness h is unknown,
determine range of values
of h for which e(b) will be
greater that e(c), and judge
whether design h will fall
in that range. When trial h
is slected in step-1, check
whether e(b) does in fact
govern.

(C) Compute Mu=Pu x e

e(b) = 0.05 h
e(c) = 1.0 in.
For e(b) > e(c)

0.05 h > 1.0

1 .0
h
20 in.
0.05
Design h will probably be less
than 20 in. So assume that
e(c) governs and design
column for e=1.0 in. when h
is selected in step-1 check
that it is less than 20 in.

Mu=940x1=940 kip. in.

Solution

Step-1: Determine trial column

section diameter h
corresponding to known
values of variables on
appropriate interaction
diagram.
(A) Assume trial column sizes h, in.

Known e(c)=1.0 in.

Design g 0.04

15

17

19

0.36

0.24

0.17

0.067

0.059

0.053

0.67

0.71

0.74

Mu
A gh using

(B) Compute
Mu
from preliminary step-c
Mu
940

A gh (h)2 h
4

(C) Compute e/h where e=1.0 in.

(D) Estimate

h5
h

Solution

(E) Select appropriate

interaction diagram.
(F) Read g for
and e/h

Mu
computed A h
g

For = 0.6
For = 0.75
Interpolate
(G) Select trial column size h
Step-2: Check whether
kl
slenderness ratio u is less
h
than critical value . If so,
slenderness effects may be
neglected. If not,
slenderness effects must be
considered by magnifying
moment M by factor .

>0.08
>0.07

0.044
0.041
0.042

Try h =17 in.

<0.02
0.02

Solution
(A) Compute M1/M2 and read
kl
critical value of u
h

klu
(B) Compute
and compare
h

with critical value

In this case, M1 and M2 are

not known, but for
rectangular columns, for all
values of M1/M2
slenderness may be
neglected where klu 6.6
h

klu 90

5.3 6.6
h
17

Therefore slenderness effects

may be neglected.
Step-3: Determine
reinforcement ratio g and
compute required crosssectional area Ast of
longitudinal reinforcement.
(A) Required Ast=gAg

Known from step IF g=0.042

2
2
Required A st 0.042 x (17) 9.53 in
4

Solution
Step-4: Select optimum
reinforcement.
(A) Assume trial bar quantities

(B) Determine smallest bar

size to provide Ast
List Resulting Ast

#14

(C) Select spiral size

#4

(D) Check whether

reinforcement can be
accommodated in column
with normal lap splices.
E. Select most cost-efficient
reinforcement.

13.50

10

11

#11

#10

#10

#9

#9

10.92

#4

Not
permitt
ed

10.16

#4

Ok Ok

Probable
1st
choice

11.43

#4

10.0

#4

Ok

11.0

#4

Result

Use a 17 in. diameter column with 7#11 bars and #4 spirals

Ag
fc
dia of Ac=12

s 0.45
1
Ac
fy

17 2
5
0.45
1
2
12
60
0.0377
4 A sp
s
1.768
s dc
So use spiral with spacing (pitch) of 2

1" 2 3"