Structural reliability analysis of typical structural elements in the local construction industry

Abstract

Structural safety is an issue which concerns all engineers especially those involved in the specification design and inspection of structures. Hence, in recent years, practical reliability methods have been developed to help engineers tackle analysis, quantification, monitoring and assessment of structural risks and make appropriate structural decisions. The local construction industry and the reliability of the elements produced in Malta have never really been addressed. This study, therefore presents reliability analysis for reinforced concrete elements, based on the statistical data gathered for the constituent materials. The material and geometric test data provided by the local industry was plotted for easier interpretation of results. The strength limit state functions were developed for reinforced concrete beams and columns. Several two-dimensional plots were generated to show how the reliability index varies for the three sites investigated for the two structural codes presently utilised in Malta.