22/05/2019
PLINTH BEAM AND TIE BEAM ; WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?
Not too many differences exist between Plinth beam and Tie beam. But before we look at the difference that do exist between this two terms let's refresh our minds with the meaning of these terms;
BEAM
A beam is a horizontal member provided to transfer the load (live and dead) from the upper structure to column and walls or foundation.
PLINTH LEVEL.
The finished ground level on which buildings and other structure rest is known as the Plinth level. Thus plinth level is usually slightly higher than the ground level, this is to prevent water from entering the building and therefore, helps for easy drainage system installation.
PLINTH BEAM
The beam constructed at the Plinth level of a building is called Plinth beam. In most frame structure building, the Plinth beam ties all the columns of the structure to reduce the slenderness ratio of the columns. Plinth beam is usually reinforced concrete, however, it is not compulsory that it must be reinforced.
PURPOSE OF PLINTH BEAM.
* It prevents differential settlement in structures.
* It is a must for area prone to earthquake
* To connect all the columns if the depth of foundation is high.
* It prevents the extension or propagation of cracks from the federation into the walls above the foundation when it suffers from settlement
TIE BEAM.
Beams that are constructed above the Plinth level to join two or more columns so as to decrease their effective length and reduce their slenderness ratio.
PURPOSE OF TIE BEAM.
* Tie beam is used for carrying the axial compression.
* To reduce the effective length of column
* They prevent columns from buckling
* Tie beams reduce the slenderness ratio.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PLINTH BEAM AND TIE BEAM.
The main difference between Plinth and Tie beam is that Plinth beam is constructed at Plinth level while Tie beam is constructed at the elevation and above the Plinth level. In other words, the difference is anchored solely on their levels of Construction.
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