Comparative Numerical Simulation of Masonry arch with Different Interlocking Pattern
Arches being one of the most aesthetic and stable form of structural elements, have been constantly used since hundreds of years in various form of constructions be it buildings, bridges or any other structural system. Though, common use of reinforced concrete framed structures has shadowed the arch elements in the recent past, but these arches are still the choice of engineer when it comes to carrying more loads with aesthetics. Moreover, with growing interest in pre-fabricated block structures these days, dry stack arches without mortar can provide a good solution for faster and stable construction.
This paper deals with the simulation of dry stack arches composed of different patterns of interlocking blocks to increase the sliding resistance. The semi-circular arch models composed of discrete blocks with two interlocking profiles i.e block type pattern, saw tooth pattern. Comparative behaviour of these interlocking patterns in arches under static loading conditions have been shown.
Simulation of these models have been done with stationary solver in Structure Mechanics Module in COMSOL Multiphysics®. An approach is developed to predict the failure pattern and stability of arch with both interlocking patterns. Interface has been provided between two blocks using contact pairs in order to give sliding coefficient. To evaluate the efficiency of these models, various parameters viz. displacement, stresses, contact pressure etc. has been extracted at different points and compared for both interlocking patterns.
Figures 1 shows the interlocking pattern of arch. Figure 2 shows the stress pattern of the arch having block type interlocking pattern. Figure 3 shows the deformation pattern of the arch having saw tooth interlocking pattern.
