Basic Thumb Rules for Column Design Ideas

Though the RCC columns are designed on the basis of the total load on the column, but there are also some important thumb rules which must be followed by the architects so that no mistakes occur at the time of choosing the approximate location for the columns.

Given below, commonly used thumb rules for column design :- Size of the columns, Spacing among columns, Alignment of columns

Size of the columns: The size of the columns is based on the complete load on the columns.

Lease size of the column should not be lower than 9” x 9”.

9” x 9” columns should be utilized for a single storey structure with M15 grade of concrete.

When it is required to utilize 9” x 9” column size for one and half storey structure, it is recommended to apply M20 grade of concrete.

A secured and structurally strong column size for a one and half storey structure should not remain lower than 12” x 9” with M15 grade concrete.

Spacing among columns: There should be equivalent spacing among the centres of two columns. The layout for a column should be arranged on a grid.

The spacing among two columns with size 9” x 9” should not be in excess of 4m in center to center of column.

The bigger column size is required for larger barrier free spacing.

The size of the column is raised for the following factors :-

1. Rise in the distance among two columns (it raises the dimensions of the columns along with the depth of the beam).
2. Height of the column (increase in the number of floors is directly relative to the dimensions of the columns.

Also Read: Steps to layout footing at construction site

Alignment of columns: A rectangular grid should be created for setting the columns. Due to this, no errors occur the columns can be arranged perfectly.

The columns should be desirably arranged in the following ways :-

1. In a straight line through a grid.
2. In a circular manner for circular buildings.
3. The columns should not be placed in zigzag direction as the structural will become completely wrong. It should be kept in mind that when the columns are constructed, the beams are placed attaching the columns.

Due to zigzag columns, the following errors may occur :-

1. Unbalanced load transfer
2. Issues in wall construction
3. Issues in placing beams

By adhering to the above thumb rules, the structural design will be totally error less.