ABSTRACT
A concrete column under load has a tendency to bend as shown in Fig 1 Thus the reinforcement must be spaced so that it will combat the tension on all sides. The vertical reinforcing bars are bound by steel links which prevent the bars from buckling outwards. Fig 2. Alternatively helical reinforcement may be used. Fig 3. The diameter of this transverse reinforcement should not be less than one-quarter the diameter of the main bars, and in no case less than 5mm. The pitch of the transverse reinforcement in a column should be not more than the least of the three dimensions:
1. The least lateral dimension of the column. 2 Twelve times the diameter of the smallest longitudinal reinforcement in the column. 3. 300mm.
