Subdivision of Cross-Section
The cross-section is subdivided into a certain number of parallel (n ≥ 3) zones of the same thickness. For each zone, the program determines the mean temperature, the corresponding compressive strength fc,θ, and, if necessary, the modulus of elasticity.
The cross-section exposed to fire is compared to an equivalent wall. The width of the equivalent wall is 2 ⋅ w. The equivalent width is subdivided symmetrically in several zones as shown in Figure 2.8.
Half of the equivalent width w depends on the fire load acting on the structural component. The following Table 2.4 gives an overview of the determination of equivalent widths conforming to the standard.
| Fire load | Half of equivalent width w |
|---|---|
|
Structural component with one side exposed to fire |
Structural component width in direction of fire effects |
|
Column or wall with both sides (facing each other) exposed to fire |
0.5 ⋅ structural component width in direction of fire effects |
|
Column with four sides exposed to fire |
0.5 ⋅ smaller cross-section dimension |