Simplified Timoshenko Method for Pile Underpinning Reinforcement of Existing Self-bearing Brick Masonry Walls

Abstract This study aims to obtain a simplified calculation rule for an underpinning reinforcement model that considers the foundation of a self-bearing wall. First, simplified Timoshenko method (STM) is used to theoretically analyze three types of steel-brick masonry composite beams (SBMCB), and the deflection solution and axial normal stress solution for the composite beams are obtained. Second, a finite element analysis is carried out; the wall weight is considered to be equivalent to a uniform load, and it acts on the top surface of the masonry. By establishing the mechanical model of SBMCB, the deflection and stress of different spans are calculated. Comparing the results with those of the STM, the differences between the STM and finite element method (FEM) are obtained. Finally, to apply the obtained results to foundation underpinning of a prison wall, the relationship between the simplified calculation and the real model results is verified.