Topic Objectives:
This introductory topic provides an outline of the information that will be provided in this module according to the function of a reinforced masonry wall.
Topic Directions:
Because of its introductory "setting-the-stage" nature, you only need to study the following on-line lecture notes to completes this topic. Then proceed to bending.
On-Line Lecture:Masonry walls have basically 4 different functions which can occur independently or in combination. These functions are:
- Bending
- Resist out-of-plane lateral loads due to:
- Wind
- Seismic
- Earth pressures, as in a retaining wall situation.
- Resist out-of-plane lateral loads due to:
- Axial
- Transmit gravity loads to the foundation.
- The gravity loads may be due to:
- Roof and floor systems that are supported by the wall.
- Wall self-weight.
- Walls that support vertical loads are known as bearing walls.
- Shear
- These walls are a critical element of the lateral force resisting system of the
"box" structure; serving to support the horizontal diaphragms. The shear wall loads are:
- The direct result of supporting the diaphragms.
- And, may include the wall's own inertia effect in seismic events.
- These walls are a critical element of the lateral force resisting system of the
"box" structure; serving to support the horizontal diaphragms. The shear wall loads are:
- Non-load bearing
- Masonry walls also serve in non-load bearing situations to:
- separate interior spaces.
- as fire walls to attenuate the spread of fire from one building unit to another.
- as sound barriers.
- Masonry walls also serve in non-load bearing situations to:
