concreteframe

A concrete frame is a structural system in which the primary load-resisting elements are reinforced concrete columns, beams, and slabs that together form a rigid skeletal framework for a building. This frame carries vertical loads through bending and axial actions in the concrete members, while lateral loads such as wind and earthquake forces are resisted by frame action, often supplemented by shear walls or bracing where required.

Key components include reinforced concrete columns for vertical support, beams to transfer loads between columns, and slabs that serve as floors and transfer loads to the frame. Reinforcements, typically steel reinforcing bars, are placed within the concrete to resist tensile stresses. Connections at beam-column joints are critical for transmitting moments and maintaining frame stiffness. Construction methods can be cast-in-place or precast with post-tensioning or grouted connections.

Concrete-framed structures offer advantages such as good fire resistance, high mass and acoustic performance, durability, and design flexibility for different architectural layouts. They are well-suited to mid-rise and high-rise buildings and to parking structures. Disadvantages include heavier weight relative to some other systems, potential for brittle joint performance if detailing is inadequate, longer curing times, and reliance on precise workmanship for seismic or exceptionally demanding environments.

Design standards commonly used include ACI 318 in the United States and Eurocode 2 in many European applications. In practice, concrete frames are often engineered to resist gravity through the frame and to provide sufficient lateral resistance through an integrated system that may combine moment-resisting frames with additional shear elements.