This can be applied for both reinforced concrete walls and also more specifically on masonry.
The principle is as follows:
In the FEM model properties, there is a new option; "Press only". (image 1)
Notice that this has to be combined with a non-linear calculation.
So, during the iteration, the occurring tensile forces will be eliminated. More specifically, the stiffnesses will be adapted in the direction of the principal stresses for each individual element. Summarising, orthotropic parameters will be used.
After the calculation, the principal stresses can be verified. The following examples illustrate the principle of pressure only (image 2 and image 3). Another application is a haunch support. In this case steel beam members are applied to simulate the reinforcement bars (remark: in this way, we can also simulate reinforcement in concrete walls). (image 4)
