Column strengthening involves enhancing the load-bearing capacity or structural integrity of existing columns in buildings or structures. Strengthening may be necessary due to factors like changes in usage, increased loads, degradation, or design deficiencies.
Several methods are used for column strengthening:
Steel Jacketing: Adding steel plates or sections around the column and connecting them with fasteners or welding. This method increases the column’s load-carrying capacity and improves its ductility.
Concrete Jacketing: Applying an additional layer of concrete around the existing column to increase its cross-sectional area and enhance strength. Chemical anchoring will be used in this method.
Steel Bracing or Reinforcement: Adding supplementary steel elements or braces to strengthen the column and improve its lateral stability.
