Homogeneous Analysis of Self-Consolidating Concrete (SCC) Casting in Reinforced Beam Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
Résumé
In this study, the casting process of 162 liters of self-consolidating concrete (SCC) in 4.05x0.2x0.2 m reinforced beam was simulated using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software. The simulated SCC was cast under gravity using a 1.69-m high vertical funnel. The horizontal part of the L-shaped formwork is reinforced using four 10-mm diameter longitudinal bars. Stirrups with 10-mm diameter are also placed at every 15 cm along the beam. The effect of bar distribution and confinement on flow and passing ability of the SCC is evaluated.
The calculated flow velocity, strain rate, position of flow fronts along the horizontal part, and level of SCC in the vertical funnel, as well as flow rates are presented in 0.1-s time steps during the casting process. The various predicted responses are compared to experimental values determined using three different SCC mixtures cast in the same types of beams. The investigated SCC mixtures had a slump flow of 700 mm and V-funnel flow times ranging between 2.88 and 3.99 s. The simulations are found to be in very good agreements with the experimental results. The numerical simulations are shown to successfully predict the flowability and passing ability of the SCC in vertical and horizontal directions along the cast beams.