Types of Columns in Building Construction
Types of Columns in Building Construction
Types of Columns in Building Construction
Construction
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There are several types of columns which are used in different parts of structures.
Column is a vertical structural member that carry loads mainly in compression. It
might transfer loads from a ceiling, floor slab, roof slab, or from a beam, to a floor or
foundations.
Commonly, columns also carry bending moments about one or both of the cross-
section axes. In this article, different types of columns used in building construction
will be discussed.
4. Based on Shape
Spiral reinforcement provide lateral restrains (Poisson’s effect) and delays axial load
failure (ductile).
3. Composite column
When the longitudinal reinforcement is in the form of structural steel section or pipe
with or without longitudinal bars, it is called as a composite column.
This type of column have high strength with fairly small cross section, in addition to
exhibit good fire performance.
Axially loaded column is rare in construction since coinciding vertical loads on the
center of gravity of column cross section is not practical.
Interior column of multi-storey buildings with symmetrical loads from floor slabs
from all sides is an example of this type of column.
Fig. 4: Axially loaded column
Column with uniaxial loading are generally encountered in the case of columns rigidly
connected beam from one side only such as edge columns.
Columns with biaxial loading is common in corner columns with beams rigidly
connected at right angles at the top of columns.
6. Short Column
If the ratio effective length of the column to the least lateral dimension is less than 12,
the column is called as the short column. A short column fails by crushing (pure
compression failure).
7. Long Column
If the ratio effective length of the column to the least lateral dimension exceeds 12, it
is called as long column. A long column fails by bending or buckling.
Based on Shape
Shape of Reinforced Concrete Column
9. Circular column
They are specially designed columns, which are mostly used in piling and elevation of
the buildings.
Fig. 16: Types of Column; A-reinforced concrete, B- steel, C-timber, D-brick, E-block, and F-stone