ABSTRACT

Many analytical softwares do not support design of columns subjected to tension or

compression, biaxial bending, shear in both directions and torsion. Tension in columns
occurs especially in columns of buildings subjected to horizontal loads due to wind or
earthquake forces. Hence, a simple method is developed using MS excel sheet, from
the existing Indian codal procedures. Results are compared with existing literature and
comparison graphs show that results are matching with the existing literature. Hence,
these excel sheets can be used for the design of columns. Importance of this procedure
lies in the fact that modification or alteratation can be made at any step and can be
used for a vast number of columns in a short time during the design.
Spreadsheets provide an easy to use and adaptable alternative to the traditional charts
and tables used as design aids for reinforced concrete.

Keywords :

CHAPTER NO. 1
INTRODUCTION
Columns contain very low volume of materials compared to the roof it supports.
However, extreme care is required to construct columns since failure of columns lead
to sudden collapse of the structure, when compared to the failure of the roofing
elements it supports. Hence, columns need to design in such a way that failure of
beams occurs prior to failure of columns. In order to achieve this objective, the
moment strength of beams or slab shall be less than that of colums at a joint in a
principal plane. This fact shall be checked before the completion of analysis and if
found not satisfying, column dimensions shall be increased to satisfy the above
condition. Design of columns are carried over a group of columns having a low
variation of design values. In this group, design is carried for the highest values of
axial force, moments about X and Y directions. This practice will reduce safety factor
in columns which are critical structural members responsible for the safety of the
structure. Hence, a method is proposed from existing literature for the design of
reinforced concrete (RC) columns considering axial force, moment in X and Y. This
method is presented in the excel sheet so that the calculations in each step can be
verified. The results are compared with the literature and verified.

SIGNIFICANCE
Column is a critical element in a structure which need to have a high moment strength
than beams or slab in the principal plane considered.A procedure is formulated using
spreadsheets for the design of columns. Spreadsheet facilitates design of number of
colums immediately upon entering design data values. These are significant since
many analytical softwares do not support design of columns with axial force,
moments, shear and torsion.This imposes limitation of using these charts. SP 16 puts
limitation of minimum of 8 bars (for bars places on all faces) for the charts. However,
the spreadsheet developed has no such limitations, since it is developed from first
principles, for application to rectangular columns. All the individual concepts for
design of this problem are available in IS 456 : 2000 and SP : 16 1980 . however, all
these individual concepts are systematically combined in this programme, which takes
care of all the relevant clauses concerning this problem.
Spredsheets provide an extremely useful,modernalternative to the traditional charts
and tables.They have advantage which often make them more usableand more
versatile in many applications.This paper describes spreadsheetwhich is developed for
design of short rectangular columns.

METHODOLOGY
Step by step procedure for the design is as follows. 1. Enter axial force, moment about
Y for top and bottom of column, moment about X for top and bottom of column.
Enter also the breadth of the column and the length of the column. Enter the grade of
steel and concrete. This is based on the strains at each row of steel and the
corresponding stresses in steel and the compressive force in concrete. Stress in steel is
found from the stress strain relations given in SP: 16. These are given for a bar
configuration of four bars per face which is applicable to 3 bars per face and 2 bars per
face. This can be extended to any number of bars per face, provided, the excel sheet is
modified by simply copying the existing one and changing the bar number from the
present to the required one.
The moments shall be compared with the moment due to minimum eccentricity as per
cl. 39.2 of IS 456 : 2000 and maximum shall be considered. Minimum eccentricity
corresponds to cl. 25.4 of IS 456 : 2000, which is equal to unsupported length of
column/500 plus lateral dimensions/30, subject to minimum of 20 mm. This needs to
be checked about each axis at a time.

VERIFICATION OF SPREADSHEET
It is required to make sure that the results should match values as in code. In case of
spreadsheets for concrete design, the results of specific calculations can be compared
with hand calculations. Further checks can be made by reworking examples in
standard text books, although these do contain errors. Hence, the comparison of results
obtained from excel sheet is to be made with the results from literature to make sure
that each constructs are correct.
Comparison of
steel stresses from
strains, for various
stress levels (fyd =
fy/1.15), for Fe415
Strain
0.00380
0.00276
0.00241
0.00192
0.00163

fs as per excel
(fs as per SP 16 :
1980)

fyd (fyd)
0.974fyd(0.975fyd)
0.949fyd (0.95fyd)
0.9fyd (0.0.90fyd)
0.849fyd
(0.0.85fyd)
0.8fyd (0.8fyd)

0.00144

CONCLUSIONS
Computer spreadsheets provide a very convenient aid for the design of column. It has
got significant advantages over design charts and tables. From the above sections, it is
clear that, the spreadsheet developed for the design of columns subjected to
compression/tension, biaxial bending, can be used effectively. Spreadsheets also have
an important advantage over conventional computer programs in that they give a good
insight into effect of various design parameters. The result of any change in the trial
design is instantly observed because of automatic recalculation by the spreadsheet.
This encourages the designer to adjust the input data to achieve better design solutions.
Changes can be undertaken very rapidly and efficiently.

LIMITATIONS
At present, column with four bars per face is considered, which can be increased to
any number of bars per face by a little modification in the spreadsheet. This is
applicable for rectangular columns only. For circular columns and odd shaped
columns, this spreadsheet can be modified and could be adopted. All notations
corresponds to ref [2] and [3]. The above analysis is also in line with ref [7], regarding
column parameters.

COLUMN INTRODUCTION
Column

Compression members are structural elements primarily subjected to axial

compressive forces and hence, their design is guided by considerations of strength and
buckling. Figures 1a to c show their examples: pedestal, column, wall and strut. While
pedestal, column and wall carry the loads along its length l in vertical direction, the
strut in truss carries loads in any direction. The letters l, b and D represent the
unsupported vertical length, horizontal lest lateral dimension, width and the horizontal
longer lateral dimension, depth. These compression members may be made of bricks
or reinforced concrete.

For a compression member, the effective length > three times the least lateral
dimension.
Fig.1 Pedestal, column,
wall

Short and Slender Compression Members

When both slenderness ratios lex/D and ley/b are <12
Column is a short column
If more than 12, then it is long or slender column.
Slender Columns are designed for Additional Moments as per Clause 39.7 of IS456
Effective height of column: For effective column height refer table 28 (Annexure E) of IS:456-2000.

Design Of Columns Important Considerations

(ii) Unsupported Length
In beam-slab construction, it is the clear distance between the floor & under side of
shallower beam framing into columns in each direction at next higher floor level.
(iii) Slenderness limits for columns
The unsupported length between end restraints shall not exceed 60 times the least
lateral dimension of a column.
5

(iv) Minimum Eccentricity All columns shall be designed for emin l/500+ D/30
20 mm
Where l= Unsupported length of column in mm. D= Lateral dimension of column in
the direction under consideration in mm.

1.2 Classification of Columns Based on Types of Reinforcement

Based on the types of reinforcement, the reinforced concrete columns are classified
into three groups
(i) Tied columns: The main longitudinal reinforcement bars are enclosed within
closely spaced lateral ties.
(ii) Columns with helical reinforcement: The main longitudinal reinforcement bars
are enclosed within closely spaced and continuously wound spiral reinforcement.
Circular and octagonal columns are mostly of this type .
(iii) Composite columns: The main longitudinal reinforcement of the composite
columns consists of structural steel sections or pipes with or without longitudinal bars .
Out of the three types of columns, the tied columns are mostly common with different
shapes of the cross-sections viz. square, rectangular, T-, L-, cross etc. Helically bound
columns are also used for circular or octagonal shapes of cross-sections. Architects
prefer circular columns in some specific situations for the functional requirement. This
module, accordingly takes up these two types (tied and helically bound) of reinforced
concrete columns.

1.3 Classification of Columns Based on Loadings

Columns are classified into the three following types based on the loadings:
(i) Columns subjected to axial loads only (concentric), as shown in Fig.2a.
(ii) Columns subjected to combined axial load and uniaxial bending, as shown in
Fig.2b.
(iii) Columns subjected to combined axial load and bi-axial bending, as shown in
Fig.2c

1.4 Classification of Columns Based on Slenderness Ratios

Columns are classified into the following two types based on the slenderness ratios:
(i) Short columns
(ii) Slender or long columns

Figure 3 presents the three modes of failure of columns with different slenderness
ratios when loaded axially. In the mode 1, column does not undergo any lateral
deformation and collapses due to material failure. This is known as compression
failure. Due to the combined effects of axial load and moment a short column may
have material failure of mode 2. On the other hand, a slender column subjected to
axial load only undergoes deflection due to beam-column effect and may have material
failure under the combined action of direct load and bending moment. Such failure is
called combined compression and bending failure of mode 2. Mode 3 failure is by
elastic instability of very long column even under small load much before the material
reaches the yield stresses. This type of failure is known as elastic buckling.
The slenderness ratio of steel column is the ratio of its effective length le to its least
radius of gyration r. In case of reinforced concrete column, however, IS 456 stipulates
the slenderness ratio as the ratio of its effective length le to its least lateral
dimension.The column may have the possibility of buckling depending on the two
values of slenderness ratios as given below:
Slenderness ratio about the major axis = lex/D
Slenderness ratio about the minor axis = ley/b
Thus, cl. 25.1.2 of IS 456 stipulates the following:
A compression member may be considered as short when both the slenderness ratios
lex/D and ley/b are less than 12 where lex = effective length in respect of the major axis,
D = depth in respect of the major axis, ley = effective length in respect of the minor
axis, and b = width of the member. It shall otherwise be considered as a slender
compression member.

Further, it is essential to avoid the mode 3 type of failure of columns so that all
columns should have material failure (modes 1 and 2) only. Accordingly, cl. 25.3.1 of
IS 456 stipulates the maximum unsupported length between two restraints of a column
to sixty times its least lateral dimension.

Design Of Columns Design Approach

The design of column is complex as it is subjected to axial loads & moments which
may very independently.
Column design requires
Determination of the cross sectional dimension.
The area of longitudinal steel & its distribution.
Transverse steel.
The maximum axial load & moments acting along the length of column are
considered for design of the column section.
The transverse reinforcement is provided to impart effective lateral support against
buckling to every longitudinal bar.
Design Of Columns Reinforcement Provisions as per IS:456A. Longitudinal reinforcement
Area of longitudinal reinforcement shall be not less than 0.8% nor more than 6%
of cross sectional area of the column.
However maximum area of steel should not exceed 4% to avoid practical difficulties
in placing & compacting concrete.
In pedestals, in which the longitudinal reinf. is not taken into account in strength
calculations, nominal reinforcement should be not be less than 0.15% of cross
sectional area.
Minimum dia of longitudinal bar should be 12 mm

Design Of Columns Reinforcement Provisions as per IS:456

A. Longitudinal reinforcement
Spacing between bars < 300mm along periphery of column

 The minimum number of bars shall be four in rectangular columns & six in circular
columns.
(B)Transverse Reinforcement :
Transverse reinforcing bars are provided in forms of circular rings, polygonal links
(lateral ties) with internal angles not exceeding 135o or helical reinforcement. The
transverse reinforcing bars are provided to ensure that every longitudinal bar nearest to
the compression face has effective lateral support against buckling. Clause 26.5.3.2
stipulates the guidelines of the arrangement of transverse reinforcement. The salient
points are:
(a) Transverse reinforcement shall only go round corner and alternate bars if the
longitudinal bars are not spaced more than 75 mm on either side (Fig.4).

(b) Longitudinal bars spaced at a maximum distance of 48 times the diameter of the tie
shall be tied by single tie and additional open ties for in between longitudinal bars
(Fig.4(b)).
(c) For longitudinal bars placed in more than one row (Fig.4(c): (i) transverse
reinforcement is provided for the outer-most row in accordance with (a) above, and (ii)
no bar of the inner row is closer to the nearest compression face than three times the
diameter of the largest bar in the inner row.
(d) For longitudinal bars arranged in a group such that they are not in contact and each
group is adequately tied as per (a), (b) or (c) above, as appropriate, the transverse
reinforcement for the compression member as a whole may be provided assuming that
each group is a single longitudinal bar for determining the pitch and diameter of the
transverse reinforcement as given in sec.10.21.9. The diameter of such transverse
reinforcement should not, however, exceed 20 mm (Fig.4(d)).

10

Pitch and Diameter of Lateral Ties

(a) Pitch: The maximum pitch of transverse reinforcement shall be the least of the
following:
(i) the least lateral dimension of the compression members;
(ii) sixteen times the smallest diameter of the longitudinal reinforcement bar to be tied;
and
(iii) 300 mm.
(b) Diameter: The diameter of the polygonal links or lateral ties shall be not less than
one-fourth of the diameter of the largest longitudinal bar, and in no case less than 6
mm.

(c) Helical Reinforcement

(a) Pitch: Helical reinforcement shall be of regular formation with the turns of the
helix spaced evenly and its ends shall be anchored properly by providing one and a
half extra turns

11

of the spiral bar. The pitch of helical reinforcement shall be determined as given in
sec.10.21.9 for all cases except where an increased load on the column is allowed for
on the strength of the helical reinforcement. In such cases only, the maximum pitch
shall be the lesser of 75 mm and one-sixth of the core diameter of the column, and the
minimum pitch shall be the lesser of 25 mm and three times the diameter of the steel
bar forming the helix.

Assumptions in the Design of Compression Members by Limit

State of Collapse
It is thus seen that reinforced concrete columns have different classifications
depending on the types of reinforcement, loadings and slenderness ratios. Detailed
designs of all the different classes are beyond the scope here. Tied and helically
reinforced short and slender columns subjected to axial loadings with or without the
combined effects of uniaxial or biaxial bending will be taken up. However, the basic
assumptions of the design of any of the columns under different classifications are the
same
(i) The maximum compressive strain in concrete in axial compression is taken as
0.002.
(ii) The maximum compressive strain at the highly compressed extreme fibre in
concrete subjected to axial compression and bending and when there is no tension on
the section shall be 0.0035 minus 0.75 times the strain at the least compressed extreme
fibre

12

From the two similar triangles EVI and GHI, we have

EV/GH = 0.0015/0.0035 = 3/7, which gives
EV = 3D/7 (10.2)
The point V, where the two profiles intersect is assumed to act as a fulcrum for the
strain profiles when the neutral axis lies outside the section. Another strain profile JK
drawn on this figure passing through the fulcrum V and whose neutral axis is outside
the section. The maximum compressive strain GJ of this profile is related to the
minimum compressive strain HK as explained below.
13

GJ = GI IJ = GI 0.75 HK, as we can write IJ in term of HK from two similar

triangles JVI
and HVK:
IJ/HK = VE/VF = 0.75.
The value of the maximum compressive strain GJ for the profile JK is, therefore,
0.0035 minus 0.75 times the strain HK on the least compressed edge. This is the
assumption (ii) of this section (cl. 39.1b of IS 456).

Minimum Eccentricity
In practical construction, columns are rarely truly concentric. Even a theoretical
column loaded axially will have accidental eccentricity due to inaccuracy in
construction or variation of materials etc. Accordingly, all axially loaded columns
should be designed considering the minimum eccentricity as stipulated in cl. 25.4 of IS
456 and given below
ex min greater of )l/500 + D/30) or 20 mm

(10.3)

ey min greater of )l/500 + b/30) or 20 mm

where l, D and b are the unsupported length, larger lateral dimension and least lateral
dimension, respectively.

14

CHAPTER 2

SHORT AXIALLY LOADED COLUMNS

Axially loaded columns need to be designed keeping the provision of resisting some
moments which normally is the situation in most of the practical columns. This is
ensured by checking the minimum eccentricity of loads applied on these columns as
stipulated in IS 456. Moreover, the design strengths of concrete and steel are further
reduced in the design of such columns. The design can be done by employing the
derived equation i.e., by direct computation or by using the charts of SP-16.

2.1Assumptions Regarding the Strengths of Concrete and Steel

The stress block of compressive part of concrete is used in the design of beam by limit
state of collapse. The maximum design strength of concrete is shown as constant at
0.446 fck when the strain ranges from 0.002 to 0.0035. The maximum design stress of
steel is 0.87 fy.
ex min greater of (l/500 + D/30) or 20 mm
ey min greater of (l/500 + b/30) or 20 mm
The maximum values of lex/D and ley/b should not exceed 12 in a short column.
Further,it is necessary to keep provision so that the short columns can resist the
accidental moments due to the allowable minimum eccentricity by lowering the design
strength of concrete by ten per cent from the value of 0.446fck, used for the design of
flexural members. Thus, the design strength of concrete in the design of short column
is (0.9)(0.446fck) = 0.4014fck, say 0.40 fck.

2.2 Governing Equation for Short Axially Loaded Tied Columns

Factored concentric load applied on short tied columns is resisted by concrete of area
Ac and longitudinal steel of areas Asc effectively held by lateral ties at
intervals.Assuming the design strengths of concrete and steel are 0.4fck and 0.67fy,
respectively,
Pu = 0.4fck Ac + 0.67fy Asc
where Pu = factored axial load on the member,
fck = characteristic compressive strength of the concrete,
Ac = area of concrete,
fy = characteristic strength of the compression reinforcement, and
Asc = area of longitudinal reinforcement for columns

15

CHAPTER 3

UNIAXIAL COLUMN
In general, all practical columns are eccentrically loaded. Normally, the side
columns of a grid of beams and columns are subjected to axial load P and uniaxial
moment Mx causing bending about the major axis xx, hereafter will be written as M.
These can be visualized by either of the following ways:
1) The load Pu on column is at an eccentricity e from the centre line of column,
and then column is subjected to an axial load P u plus the bending moment
equal to Pue.
2) The load is axial but a column has a moment either due to gravity loads or any
other loads. It can be said in this case that column is eccentrically loaded with
load Pu and bending moment Mu or the column is eccentricity loaded with a
load Pu at an eccentricity e= Mu / Pu.
Uniaxial bending:
Depending on relative values of Pu and Mu, the following two cases occur for
design:
i.
Compression over the whole section where the neutral axis is outside
the section. This is called compression controls region. This region is
further subdivided into two regions
(a) e e,min
(b) e > e,min
ii.
Compression on one side in the concrete and steel, and tension in the
steel on the other side where the neutral axis lies inside the section.
This is called tension controls region.

3.1Modes of Failure of Columns

The two distinct categories of the location of neutral axis, clearly indicate the two
types of failure modes: (i) compression failure, when the neutral axis is outside the
section, causing compression throughout the section, and (ii) tension failure, when the
neutral axis is within the section developing tensile strain on the left of the neutral
axis. Before taking up these two failure modes, let us discuss about the third mode of
failure i.e., the balanced failure.

16

3.1.1 Balanced failure

Under this mode of failure, yielding of outer most row of longitudinal steel near the
left edge occurs simultaneously with the attainment of maximum compressive strain of
0.0035 in concrete at the right edge of the column. As a result, yielding of longitudinal
steel at the outermost row near the left edge and crushing of concrete at the right edge
occur simultaneously. The different yielding strains of steel are determined from the
following:
(i) For mild steel (Fe 250): y = 0.87fy/Es . (3.1)
(ii) For cold worked deformed bars: y = 0.87fy/Es + 0.002 . (3.2)
3.1.2 Compression failure
Compression failure of the column occurs when the eccentricity of the load Pu is less
than that of balanced eccentricity (e < eb) and the depth of the neutral axis is more than
that of balanced failure. Neither the tensile strain of the outermost row of steel on the
left of the neutral axis reaches y.

3.1.3 Tension failure

Tension failure occurs when the eccentricity of the load is greater than the balanced
eccentricity eb. The depth of the neutral axis is less than that of the balanced failure.
The longitudinal steel in the outermost row on the left of the neutral axis yields first.
Gradually, with the increase of tensile strain, longitudinal steel of inner rows, if
provided, starts yielding till the compressive strain reach 0.0035 at the right edge. The
depth of the neutral axis is designated by (kminD).

3.2 Interaction Diagram

It is now understood that a reinforced concrete column with specified amount of
longitudinal steel has different carrying capacities of a pair of Pu and Mu before its
collapse depending on the eccentricity of the load. Figure 3.1 represents one such
interaction diagram giving the carrying capacities ranging from Po with zero
eccentricity on the vertical axis to Mo (pure bending) on the horizontal axis. The
vertical axis corresponds to load with zero eccentricity while the horizontal axis
represents infinite value of eccentricity. A radial line joining the origin O of Fig.3.1to
point 2 represents the load having the minimum eccentricity. In fact, any radial line
represents a particular eccentricity of the load. Any point on the interaction diagram
gives a unique pair of Pu and Mu that causes the state of incipient failure. The
interaction diagram has three distinct zones of failure: (i) from point 1 to just before
point 5 is the zone of compression failure, (ii) point 5 is the balanced failure and (iii)
from point 5 to point 6 is the zone of tension failure. In the compression failure zone,
small eccentricities produce failure of concrete in compression, while large
eccentricities cause failure triggered by yielding of tension steel. In between, point 5 is
17

the critical point at which both the failures of concrete in compression and steel in
yielding occur simultaneously.

Fig.3.1 Typical interaction diagram

The interaction diagram further reveals that as the axial force Pu becomes larger the
section can carry smaller Mu before failing in the compression zone. The reverse is the
case in the tension zone, where the moment carrying capacity Mu increases with the
increase of axial load Pu. In the compression failure zone, the failure occurs due to
over straining of concrete. The large axial force produces high compressive strain of
concrete keeping smaller margin available for additional compressive strain line to
bending. On the other hand, in the tension failure zone, yielding of steel initiates
failure. This tensile yield stress reduces with the additional compressive stress due to
additional axial load. As a result, further moment can be applied till the combined
stress of steel due to axial force and increased moment reaches the yield strength.
Let us understand the corresponding compressive stress blocks of concrete for the two
distinct cases of the depth of the neutral axis: (i) outside the cross-section and (ii)
within the cross-section in the following sections.

3.2.1 Compressive Stress Block of Concrete when the Neutral Axis Lies
Outside the Section
Figure 3.2c presents the stress block for a typical strain profile JK having neutral axis
depth kD outside the section (k > 1). The strain profile JK in Fig.3.2b shows that up to
a distance of 3D/7 from the right edge (point AO), the compressive strain is 0.002 and,
therefore, the compressive stress shall remain constant at 0.446fck. The remaining part
18

of the column section of length 4D/7, i.e., up to the left edge, has reducing
compressive strains (but not zero). The stress block is,

Fig. 3.2(a) Cross

Section

Fig.3.2 (b) Strain

profiles

Fig.3.2(c) Stress block for the strain

profile
JK (kD
> D)
Fig.3.2 Cross section of
column,
strain
profiles and stress block
for the strain profile JK (kD > D)

therefore, parabolic from AO to H which becomes zero at U (outside the section). The
area of the compressive stress block shall be obtained subtracting the parabolic area
between AO to H from the rectangular area between G and H. To establish the
expression of this area, it is essential to know the equation of the parabola between AO
and U, whose origin is at AO. The positive coordinates of X and Y are measured from
the point AO upwards and to the left, respectively. Let us assume that the general
equation of the parabola as

X = aY2 + bY + c .(3.3)
19

The values of a, b and c are obtained as follows:

(i) At Y = 0, X = 0, at the origin: gives c = 0
(ii) At Y = 0, dX/dY = 0, at the origin: gives b = 0
(iii) At Y = (kD 3D/7), i.e., at point U, X = 0.446fck: gives a = 0.446fck/D2(k-3/7)2.
Therefore, the equation of the parabola is:
X = {0.446fck/D2(k 3/7)2}Y2 .(3.4)
The value of X at the point H (left edge of the column), g is now determined from
Eq.3.4 when Y = 4D/7, which gives
g = 0.446 fck {4/(7k 3)}2 .(3.5)
Hence, the area of the compressive stress block = 0.446 fck D [1 (4/21){4/(7k 3)}2]
= C1 fck D (3.6)
where C1 = 0.446[1 (4/21){4/(7k 3)}2] (3.7)
Equation 3.6 is useful to determine the area of the stress block for any value of k > 1
(neutral axis outside the section) by substituting the value of C1 from Eq.3.7. The
symbol C1 is designated as the coefficient for the area of the stress block.
The position of the centroid of the compressive stress block is obtained by dividing the
moment of the stress block about the right edge by the area of the stress block. The
moment of the stress block is obtained by subtracting the moment of the parabolic part
between AO and H about the right edge from the moment of the rectangular stress
block of full depth D about the right edge. The expression of the moment of the stress
block about the right edge is:
0.446 fck D(D/2) (1/3)(4D/7) 0.446 fck {4/(7k 3)}2 {3D/7 + (3/4)(4D/7)}

= 0.446 fck D2 [(1/2) (8/49){4/(7k 3)}2]. (3.8)

Dividing Eq.3.8 by Eq.3.6, we get the distance of the centroid from the right edge is:
D[(1/2) (8/49){4/(7k 3)}2]/[1 (4/21){4/(7k 3)}2]
= C2 D (3.9)
where C2 is the coefficient for the distance of the centroid of the compressive
stress block of concrete measured from the right edge and is:
C2 = [(1/2) (8/49){4/(7k 3)}2]/[1 (4/21){4/(7k 3)}2].. (3.10)

20

Table 3.1 represents the values of C1 and C2 for different values of k greater than 1, as
given in Table H of SP-16. For a specific depth of the neutral axis, k is known. Using
the corresponding values of C1 and C2 from Table 10.4, area of the stress block of
concrete and the distance of centroid from the right edge are determined from Eqs.3.6
and 3.9, respectively.
Table 3.1 Stress block parameters C1 and C2 when the neutral axis is outside the
section

The area of the stress block is 0.446fckD and the distance of the centroid from the right
edge is 0.5D, when k is infinite. Values of C1 and C2 at k = 4 are very close to those
when k = . In fact, for the practical interaction diagrams, it is generally adequate to
consider values of k up to about 1.2.

3.2.2 Determination of Compressive Stress Anywhere in the Section when

the Neutral Axis Lies outside the Section
The compressive stress of concrete at any point between G and AO of Fig.3.2c is
constant at 0.446fck as the strain in this zone is equal to or greater than 0.002. So, we
can write
fc = 0.446fck if 0.002 c 0.0035.. (3.11)
However, compressive stress of concrete between AO and H is to be determined using
the equation of parabola. Let us determine the concrete stress fc at a distance of Y from
the origin AO. From Fig.3.2c, we have
fc = 0.446 fck - gc (10.24)
where gc is as shown in Fig.3.2c and obtained from Eq.3.4. Thus, we get
fc = 0.446 fck {0.446 fck/D2(k 3/7)2}Y2
or fc = 0.446 fck {1 Y2/(kD 3D/7)2}. (3.12)
Designating the strain of concrete at this point by c (Fig.3.2b), we have from similar
triangles
c/0.002 = 1 Y/(kD 3D/7)
21

which gives
Y = {1 (/0.002)}(kD 3D/7).. (3.13)
Substituting the value of Y from Eq.3.13 in Eq.3.12, we have
fc = 0.446 fck [2(c/0.002) - (c/0.002)2], if 0 c < 0.002 (3.14)
Compressive Stress Block of Concrete when the Neutral Axis is within the Section

Fig3.2 (a) Cross

Section

Fig. 3.2(b) Strain

Profile IN (kD > D)

Fig. 3.2(c) Stress block for the strain profile IN

(kD > D)
Fig. 3.2 Cross section, strain profile IN and stress block for
strain profile JK

Figure 3.2c presents the stress block for a typical strain profile IN having neutral axis
depth = kD within the section (k < 1). The strain profile IN in Fig.3.2b shows that from
a to AO, i.e., up to a distance of 3kD/7 from the right edge, the compressive strain is
0.002 and, therefore, the compressive stress shall remain constant at 0.446fck. From
AO to U, i.e., for a distance of 4kD/7, the strain is reducing from 0.002 to zero and the
stress in this zone is parabolic as shown in Fig.3.2c. The area of the stress block shall
be obtained subtracting the parabolic area between AO and U from the total
22

rectangular area between G and U. As in the case when the neutral axis is outside the
section, we have to establish the equation of the parabola with AO as the origin and
the positive coordinates X and Y are measured from the point AO upwards for X and
from the point AO to the left for Y, as shown in Fig.3.2c. Assuming the same equation
of the parabola as in Eq.3.3, the values of a, b and c are obtained as:
(i) At Y = 0, X = 0, at the origin: gives c = 0
(ii) At Y = 0, dX/dY = 0, at the origin: gives b = 0
(iii) At U, (i.e., at Y = 4kD/7), X = 0.446 fck: gives a = 0.446 fck/(4kD/7)2.
Therefore, the equation of the parabola OR is:
X = {0.446 fck/(4kD/7)2}Y2.. (3.15)
The area of the stress block = 0.446 fck kD (1/3) 0.446 fck (4kD/7) = 0.36 fck kD.
Similarly, the distance of the centroid can be obtained by dividing the moment of area
of stress block about the right edge by the area of the stress block. Therefore, we have
Area of the stress block = 0.36 fck kD (3.16)
The distance of the centroid of the stress block from the right edge = 0.42kD
(3.17)
Thus, the values of C1 and C2 of Eqs.3.6 and 3.9, respectively, are 0.36 and 0.42 when
the neutral axis is within the section. It is to be noted that the coefficients C1 and C2 are
multiplied by Dfck and D, respectively when the neutral axis is outside the section.
However, they are to be multiplied here, when the neutral axis is within the section, by
kDfck and kD, respectively.

3.2.3 Determination of Compressive Stress Anywhere in the Compressive

Zone when the Neutral Axis is within the Section
The compressive stress at any point between G and AO of Fig.3.2c is constant at
0.446fck as the strain in this zone is equal to or greater than 0.002. So, we can write
fc = 0.446 fck if 0.002 c 0.0035 . (3.18)
However, the compressive stress between AO and U is to be determined from the
equation of the parabola. Let us determine the compressive stress fci at a distance of Y
from the origin AO. From Fig.3.2c, we have
fc = 0.446 fck - gc (3.19)
where gc as shown in Fig.3.2c, is obtained from Eq.3.15. Thus, we get,
fc = {0.446 fck 0.446 fck (4kD/7)2}Y2 ..(3.20)

23

Designating the strain of concrete at this point by c (Fig.3.2b), we have from similar
triangles
c/0.002 = 1 Y/(4kD/7), which gives
Y = {1 - c/0.002}(4kD/7).. (3.21)
Substituting the value of Y from Eq.3.21 in Eq.3.20, we get the same equation, Eq.3.14
of sec.3.2.2, when the neutral axis is outside the section. Therefore,
fc = 0.446 fck [2(c/0.002) (c/0.002)2] . (3.23)

Fig3.3 (a) Cross

Section

Fig. 3.3 (b) Strain

Profile IN (kD <
D)

Fig. 3.3(c) Stress block for the strain profile IN

(kD < D)
Fig. 3.3 Cross section, strain profile IN and stress
block for strain profile IN

24

From the point U to the left edge H of the cross-section of the column, the
compressive stress is zero. Thus, we have
fc = 0 if c 0
fc = 0.446 fck if c 0.002
fc = 0.446 fck{2(c/0.002) (c/0.002)2}, if 0 c < 0.002 (3.24)
3.3 Tensile and Compressive Stresses of Longitudinal Steel
Values of compressive or tensile stresses of longitudinal steel (Fe 250, Fe 415 and Fe
500) are as shown in Table A of SP 16.

3.4 Design Parameters

The following are the four major design parameters to be determined for any column
so that it has sufficient pairs of strengths (Pu and Mu) to resist all critical pairs obtained
from the analysis:
(i) dimensions b and D of the rectangular cross-section,
(ii) longitudinal steel reinforcing bars - percentage p, nature of distribution (equally on
two or four sides) and d'/D,
(iii) grades of concrete and steel, and
(iv) transverse reinforcement.
The roles and importance of each of the above four parameters are elaborated below:
(i) Dimensions b and D of the rectangular cross-section

25

The strength of column depends on the two dimensions b and D. However,

preliminary dimensions of b and D are already assumed for the analysis of structure,
which are usually indeterminate statically. In the subsequent redesign, these
dimensions may be revised, if needed, inviting re-analysis with the revised
dimensions.
(ii) Longitudinal steel reinforcing bars
It is a very important consideration to utilise the total area of steel bars effectively. The
total area of steel, expressed in percentage p ranges from the minimum 0.8 to the
maximum 4 per cent of the gross area of the cross-section. The bars may be distributed
either equally on two sides or on all four sides judiciously having two or multiple rows
of steel bars. The strain profiles of Fig.10.23.2 reveals that the rows of bars may be all
in compression or both compression and tension depending on the location of the
neutral axis. Accordingly, the total strength of the longitudinal bars is determined by
adding all the individual strengths of bars of different rows. The effective cover d',
though depends on the nominal cover, has to be determined from practical
considerations of housing all the steel bars.
(iii) Grades of concrete and steel
The dimensions b and D of the cross-section and the amount of longitudinal steel bars
depend on the grades of concrete and steel.
(iv) Transverse reinforcement
The transverse reinforcement, provided in form of lateral ties or spirals, are important
for the following advantages in
(a) preventing premature / local buckling of the longitudinal bars,
(b) improving ductility and strength by the effect of confinement of the core concrete,
(c) holding the longitudinal bars in position during construction, and
(d) providing resistance against shear and torsion, if present.
However, the transverse reinforcement does not have a major contribution in
influencing the capacities of the column. Moreover, the design of transverse
reinforcement involves selection of bar diameter and spacing following the
stipulations in the design code. The bar diameter of the transverse reinforcement also
depends on the bar diameter of longitudinal steel. Accordingly, the transverse
reinforcement is designed after finalizing other parameters mentioned above.
It is, therefore, clear that the design of columns mainly involves the determination of
percentage of longitudinal reinforcement p, either assuming or knowing the
dimensions b and D, grades of concrete and steel, distribution of longitudinal bars in
two or multiple rows and d'/D ratio from the analysis or elsewhere. Needless to
26

mention that any designed column should be able to resist several critical pairs of Pu
and Mu obtained from the analysis of the structure. It is also a fact that several trials
may be needed to arrive at the final selection revising any or all the assumed
parameters. Accordingly, the design charts are prepared to give the results for the
unknown parameter quickly avoiding lengthy calculations after selecting appropriate
non-dimensional parameters.
Based on the above considerations and making the design simple, quick and fairly
accurate, the following are the two non-dimensional parameters:
For axial load: Pu/fckbD
For moment: Mu/fckbD2
The characteristic strength of concrete fck has been associated with the non-dimensional
parameters as the grade of concrete does not improve the strength of the column
significantly. The design charts prepared by SP-16 are assuming the constant value of
fck for M 20 to avoid different sets of design charts for different grades of concrete.
However, separate design charts are presented in SP-16 for three grades of steel (Fe
250, Fe 415 and Fe 500), four values of d'/D (0.05, 0.1, 0.15 and 0.2) and two types of
distribution of longitudinal steel (distributed equally on two and four sides).
Accordingly there are twenty-four design charts for the design of rectangular columns.
Twelve separate design charts are also presented in SP-16 for circular sections
covering the above mentioned three grades of steel and for values of d'/D ratio.
However, the unknown parameter p, the percentage of longitudinal reinforcement has
been modified to p/fck in all the design charts of SP-16, so that for grades other than M
20, the more accurate value of p can be obtained by multiplying the p/fck with the
actual grade of concrete used in the design of that column.
However, this lesson explains that it is also possible to prepare design chart taking into
consideration the actual grade of concrete. As mentioned earlier, the design charts are
prepared getting the pairs of values of Pu and Mu in non-dimensional form from the
equations of equilibrium for different locations of the neutral axis. We now take up the
respective non-dimensional equations for four different cases as follows:
(a) When the neutral axis is at infinity, i.e., kD = , pure axial load is applied on the
column.
(b) When the neutral axis is outside the cross-section of the column, i.e., D> kD.
(c) When the neutral axis is within the cross-section of the column, i.e., kD < D.
(d) When the column behaves like a steel beam.

27

3.5.1 Non-dimensional Equation of Equilibrium when k = , (Pure Axial

Load)
The total compressive force due to concrete of constant stress of 0.446 fck is:
Cc = 0.446 fck b D (3.25)
However, proper deduction shall be made for the compressive force of concrete not
available due to the replacement by steel bars while computing Cs.
The force of longitudinal steel bars in compression is now calculated. The steel bars of
area pbD/100 are subjected to the constant stress of fsc when the strain is 0.002.
Subtracting the compressive force of concrete of the same area pbD/100, we have,
Cs = (pbD/100) (fsc - 0.446 fck) (3.26)
Thus, we have from Eq. 3.11after substituting the expressions of Cc and Cs from
Eqs.3.25 and 3.26,
Pu = 0.446 fck b D + (pbD/100) (fsc - 0.446 fck) (3.27)
Dividing both sides of Eq.3.27 by fck bD, we have
(Pu/fck bD) = 0.446 + (p/100 fck) (fsc - 0.446 fck) (3.28)

3.5.2 Non-dimensional Equations of Equilibrium when Neutral Axis is

Outside the Section ( > kD D)
Figures 3.2b and c of present the strain profile JK and the corresponding stress block
for this case. The expressions of Cc, Cs and appropriate lever arms are determined to
write the two equations of equilibrium. While computing Cc, the area of parabolic
stress block is determined employing the coefficient C1 from Table A SP 16. Similarly,
the coefficient C2, needed to write the moment equation, is obtained from Table A SP
16. The forces and the corresponding lever arms of longitudinal steel bars are to be
considered separately and added for each of the n rows of the longitudinal bars. Thus,
we have the first equation as,
Pu = C1 fck bD + (10.41) ) + ( bDpi /100fck (fsi- fci))
where C1 = coefficient for the area of stress block
pi = Asi/bD where Asi is the area of reinforcement in the ith row,
fsi = stress in the ith row of reinforcement, taken positive for compression and negative
for tension,
fci = stress in concrete at the level of the ith row of reinforcement, and
28

n = number of rows of reinforcement.

Here also, the deduction of the compressive force of concrete has been made for the
concrete replaced by the longitudinal steel bars.
Dividing both sides of by fckbD, we have
(Pu/fckbD) = C1 + (10.42) + ( pi /100fck (fsi- fci)
Similarly, the moment equation becomes,
Mu = C1 fckbD (D/2 - C2D) + bDpi /100fck (fsi- fci)yi
Where, C2 = coefficient for the distance of the centroid of the compressive stress block
of concrete measured from the highly compressed right edge and
yi = the distance from the centroid of the section to the i th row of reinforcement,
positive towards the highly compressed right edge and negative towards the least
compressed left edge.
Dividing both sides of by fckbD2, we have
(Mu/fckbD2) = C1(0.5 - C2) + pi /100fck (fsi- fci)(yi/D)

3.5.3 Non-dimensional Equations of Equilibrium when the Neutral Axis is

within the Section (kD < D)
The strain profile IN and the corresponding stress block of concrete are presented in
Figs.3.3 b and c for this case. Following the same procedure of computing Cc, Cs and
the respective lever arms, we have the first equation as
Pu = 0.36 fck kbD + bD pi /100fck (fsi- fci)
Dividing both sides of by fckbD, we have
Pu/fckbD = 0.36 k + pi /100fck (fsi- fci)
and the moment equation as
Mu = 0.36 fck kbD(0.5 - 0.42 k) D + bDpi /100fck (fsi- fci)yi
Dividing both sides by fckbD2, we have
(Mu/fckbD2) = 0.36 k(0.5 - 0.42 k) + pi /100fck (fsi- fci)(yi/D)
Where, k = Depth of the neutral axis/Depth of column

3.5.4 Non-dimensional Equation of Equilibrium when the Column

Behaves as a Steel Beam
This is a specific situation when the column is subjected to pure moment Mu = Mo only.
29

Since the column has symmetrical longitudinal steel on both sides of the centroidal
axis of the column, the column will resist the pure moment by yielding of both tensile
and compressive steel bars (i.e., fsi = 0.87 fy = fyd). Thus, we have only one equation
which becomes
Mu = bDpi /100fck 0.87 fy yi
Dividing both sides of by fck bD2, we have
(Mu/fckbD2) = pi /100fck 0.87 fy yi/D

3.6 Governing equation:

3.6.1 N.A. outside the section
Pu/fckbD = C1 + pi /100fck (fsi- fci)
Mu/fckbD2 = C1 (0.5-C2 ) + pi /100fck (fsi- fci)(yi/D)

3.6.2 N.A. inside the section

Pu/fckbD = 0.36k + pi /100fck (fsi- fci)
Mu/fckbD2 = 0.36k (0.5-0.416k ) + pi /100fck (fsi- fci)(yi/D)

3.6.3 Steel beam

Pu = 0
(Mu/fckbD2) = pi /100fck 0.87 fy yi/D

30