Analytical Study on the Influence of Rib Beams on the Stability of RCC Dome Structures

Abstract

Dome systems are space structures which cover a big area with minimum support. It is a doubly curved shell structure. Dome is stronger, stable and sturdy than any other singly curved shell structures which are relevant to many civil engineering structures like an auditorium, exhibition hall, industrial structures, pinnacle protection of ground water tank etc. Modern concrete shell domes can be constructed to the ratio (thickness-toradius) of 1:800, using concrete and wire mesh and they are safe, aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting. The main aim of this study is to analyze the behaviour and strength of modern-day thin spherical shell domes made of concrete with and without rib beams using finite element technique with the help of SAP2000 software. The work consists of the erection of round domes with a massive diameter of 50m, 100m, and 150m with and without rib beams and a shell thickness of 15cm. Analytical study on all models was performed to study the influence of the big diameter and thickness of shell dome on stress distribution.