Unlocking the Mysteries of Combined Footings: Types, Benefits and More!
Combined footings are a critical component of structural engineering, but many students are unaware of the different types of combined footings, their benefits, and how to maximize their use. The goal of this blog post is to help unlock the mysteries of combined footings, so let's dive in!
What Are Combined Footings?
A combined footing is a type of foundation that consists of two or more columns connected by a single footing. This type of footing is used when the soil beneath the foundation is weak and cannot support the load of the columns. Combined footings can also be used when the columns are close together, as this allows for a single footing to be used instead of multiple, separate footings.
Types of Combined Footings
There are several different types of combined footings, each with its own unique purpose and benefits. The most common types of combined footings are:
- Rectangular Combined Footings: This type of footing is used when two columns are close together, and the load from the columns can be supported by a single, rectangular footing.
- Trapezoidal Combined Footings: This type of footing is used when the load from two columns is not equal, and the footing must be larger on one side than the other.
- Strap Footings: This type of footing is used when the columns are spaced farther apart and the footing must span the distance between them.
- Cantilever Footings: This type of footing is used when the column load is not supported by the soil, and the footing must extend beyond the column in order to support the load.
Benefits of Combined Footings
Combined footings offer a number of benefits, including:
- Reduced Cost: By using a single footing instead of multiple, separate footings, the cost of the project can be reduced.
- Reduced Time: By using a single footing instead of multiple, separate ones, the time required to complete the project can be reduced.
- Reduced Labor: By using a single footing instead of multiple, separate ones, the amount of labor required to complete the project can be reduced.
How to Maximize the Use of Combined Footings
In order to maximize the use of combined footings, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Soil Conditions: The soil conditions must be taken into account when designing a combined footing. If the soil is weak, a combined footing may be necessary in order to support the load from the columns.
- Column Spacing: The spacing of the columns must be taken into account when designing a combined footing. If the columns are close together, a single footing can be used instead of multiple, separate footings.
- Column Load: The load from the columns
