On the Failure Probabilities of R/C Chimneys

by H. Bottenbruch, Karrena GmbH, Germany,
H. J. Pradlwarter, Karrena GmbH, Germany,
G. I. Schu?ller, Karrena GmbH, Germany,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Structural Safety and Reliability

Abstract:

A procedure to estimate failure probabilities of structural systems such as reinforced concrete (R/C) chimneys under severe wind loading which allows for considering realistic correlation values of concrete strength is developed. The results show that the assumption of full correlation of concrete strength within cross sections, i.e. cross sectional elements as suggested for example in present codes, may significantly overestimate the failure rates - in present examples by two orders of magnitude. In addition it is shown which of the cross sectional layers, i.e. elements contribute to the total failure rate of R/C chimneys. As a consequence, the failure estimates increase, in some case as much as two orders of magnitude when compared to present analysis procedures. In the numerical examples as investigated here, however, these counteracting effects neutralize each other. This result should, however, not be generalized.

Subject Headings: Reinforced concrete | Failure analysis | Chimneys | Wind loads | Probability | Material failures | Correlation

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