It’s quite simple, really. But the simplest of responsibilities hold utmost importance, and that is exactly what the role of the ringer stirrup is at the construction sites. Stirrups play an essential role in the construction phase. It consists of nothing more than steel bars that have been wrapped around the columns and beams to reinforce the framework in its entirety. Interesting how such a small component can do so much for such a colossal structure, right?
The two types of failures that occur mainly in construction beams are:- Flexural (Bending) failure
- Shear failure
- The top and bottom bars of the beams are wrapped with a rectangular steel piece to form the stirrups, which are commonly used. The main reinforcing bars are held in position with the use of stirrups. To keep the columns and beams from buckling, stirrups should be used.
- Stirrups can be positioned vertically, diagonally, or both. This is done in order to avoid shear failure, which typically occurs diagonally when cracks in beams occur. The compression and tension brought on by transverse and vertical tension are the main causes of diagonal shear. Because concrete is stronger in deformation than tension, diagonal tension eventually develops. A steel stirrup that holds the broken surface together reduces this tension.
- It is crucial to specify the stirrup spacing along the beam, ideally by the designer. This will make it easier to build the stirrups properly. They are typically positioned beneath heavy loads and bearing points, where there is a greater risk of shearing.
- Putting steel bars through concrete strengthens it. Stirrups are needed to maintain a straight line, though. Stirrups strengthen the structure at key locations that could become weak over time from use while also maintaining order.
- Stirrups are less durable than steel rebars. However, stirrups are frequently used in conjunction with rebar. While the rebar serves as the bones of the concrete, the stirrups help the rebar stay straight and give the concrete column inside of it more support.
- Stirrups aid in maintaining vital resistance. The stirrups act like tendons when the column is under pressure from above. They aid the concrete and rebar in providing long-lasting stability for the heavy load.