Abstract:
The accuracy of ten nonlinear finite element modeling approaches in predicting the shear behavior of concrete circular hollow members is evaluated through collected experimental results. Key modeling parameters are systematically compared, including crack models, reinforced concrete bond-slip relationships, crack shear transfer mechanisms, and crack width calculations. The comparative analysis reveals distinct performance characteristics: the rotation crack model achieves superior accuracy for members with stirrups by effectively simulating stirrup constraints on crack propagation and shear resistance mechanisms, while the fixed crack model demonstrates better performance for members without stirrups. The investigation clarifies that crack shear transfer models based on damage and on aggregate size significantly influence prediction accuracy and result variability. The fib Model Code 2010 bond-slip model is recommended as the optimal choice for simulating the bond-slip relationship. Statistical results establish crack modeling approaches as the dominant factor governing predictive accuracy in the finite element analysis.