Design of face-shell bedded hollow masonry subject to concentrated loads
Many parameters affect the behaviour and failure of face-shell bedded hollow masonry subject to concentrated load. Detailed study of these parameters is needed to develop realistic design rules for this situation. The effects of loaded length and wall dimensions on capacity of the face-shell bedded hollow masonry subject to concentrated load are studied; the effect of mortar joint strength is also evaluated. The current design detail of filling some of the blocks under the concentrated load with grout is reviewed. The study was performed with a nonlinear elastoplastic finite element model that takes into account geometric and material nonlinearities as well as damage due to progressive cracking. The methodology, when combined with substructuring, allows analysis of substantially larger walls than would more typical three-dimensional analyses. The results indicate that the length of the loading plate is the significant parameter for load capacity. A possible design equation for plain hollow masonry subject to concentrated loads, concentric across the width of the wall, is provided. Adjustments could be made given the precise loading detail specified. Improvement details are explained. Key words: masonry, hollow concrete masonry, finite element modelling, cracking, failure, strength-enhancement factor, concentrated loads.