Synopsis
In this paper, welded wire fabric bent into a U shape is considered as web reinforcement in beams, the necessary anchorage at its open ends being furnished by welded cross wires. About 70 pull-out tests were made to investigate the influence of various parameters that affect the anchorage. Four simply supported over-hanging beams were also tested to evaluate the upper anchorage located in the tension and compression zones of the beam and to study their cracking behaviour and ultimate strength. Test results indicate that welded cross wires can provide adequate anchorage if certain restrictions on the relative size and spacing of these wires are followed, and the beams can attain the desired shear capacity. The use of deformed welded wire fabric signlficantly improves the cracking characteristics of a beam by comparison with an equivalent amount of smooth welded wire fabric.
