Title: Minimum Reinforcement Requirements for Precast Wall Panels

Author(s): S.K. Ghosh

Publication: Structural Journal

Volume: 84

Issue: 3

Appears on pages(s): 187-191

Keywords: axial loads; building codes; concrete panels; plain concrete; precast concrete; reinforced concrete; reinforcing steels; thickness; structural design; walls; Structural Research

DOI: 10.14359/2622

Date: 5/1/1987

Abstract:
The minimum reinforcement requirements of the ACI Building Code for reinforced concrete walls, including precast wall panels, are reviewed. Wall panels are categorized into three groups: unreinforced walls (Level 1 walls), walls that are designable by the empirical design procedure of Chapter 14 of the code (Level 2 walls), and walls that must be designed as compression members by Chapter 10 of the code (Level 3 walls). Certain differences between precast and cast-in-place walls that have a bearing on minimum reinforcement requirements are pointed out. Long-standing successful experience with precast wall panels, using less reinforcement than the minimum required by ACI Building Code provisions, is cited. Some relaxation of the current minimum reinforcement requirements is found to be warranted for precast wall panels.