Norman Bright1 and John Roberts2
- Visiting Professor, Kingston University, Faculty of Technology, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, KT1 2EE, U.K., normanbright@fairview.clara.net
- Professor of Civil Engineering and Dean Faculty of Technology, Kingston University, Faculty of Technology, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, KT1 2EE, U.K., j.roberts@kingston.ac.uk
ABSTRACT
In Europe, Eurocode 6: Design of Masonry Structures – Part 1-1: Common rules for reinforced and unreinforced masonry structures has recently been ratified and is about to be published by the European Standards organisation CEN. It will replace the existing design codes of all European countries, which are members of CEN after a period of co-existence. It will also be used in various other countries around the world.
One aspect of Eurocode 6 that is different from both existing UK practice and Canadian code proposals is the treatment of concentrated loads.
Eurocode 6 Design of Masonry Structures, BS5628 Code of practice for use of masonry, and draft Canadian Code S304.1-04 Design of Masonry Structures each assume different load spreads in the masonry. In addition, the enhancement factors for stress immediately below the concentrated load vary as a result of different calculation procedures.
This paper explores these differences and compares some simple situations. The extent of the differences in the various approaches is highlighted and observations made. Finally, the authors advocate harmonising the approaches adopted by the codes and indicate some of the considerations necessary.
KEYWORDS: concentrated loading, codes
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