Seismic behavior of RC columns with various tie configurations

To expedite the fabrication of reinforcement cages of columns, a new config uration of transverse reinforcement with alternate ties for columns is prop osed. To evaluate the effect of such a configuration on the seismic perform ance of the column, nine reinforced concrete columns with a cross section o f 400 X 400 mm were tested. Except for the transverse reinforcement, all co lumns were designed according to the seismic provisions of the American Con crete Institute. The tie configuration and axial load were the two main par ameters investigated in the experimental program. It was found from the tes t results that the proposed configuration of transverse reinforcement provi des comparable or improved seismic performance in terms of member ductility and energy dissipation capacity to those usually used in design, and the r equirement for compression lap splice in the ties is also adequate when the proposed alternate configuration of transverse reinforcement is used.