INTRODUCTION TO RCC

 

What is Reinforced Cement Concrete

Reinforced Cement Concrete, or RCC, is a composite material that consists of concrete strengthened with steel reinforcement bars, commonly known as rebar. Builders use it in construction because it can withstand compression and tension, providing a durable and strong structure. 

Types of Reinforced Cement Concrete

There are several types of RCC in construction:

 

• Steel Reinforced Concrete

• Fibre Reinforced Concrete

• Precast Concrete

• Prestressed Concrete

• Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete

• Polymer Portland Cement Concrete

• Ferrocement

 

Uses of RCC in Construction

RCC's versatility makes it ideal for various applications in construction:

 

1. Buildings: For structural frames, beams, columns, and floors in residential and commercial buildings.

 

2. Bridges: Supports the heavy loads and dynamic stresses encountered by bridge structures.

 

3. Roads: Certain roadways use RCC to endure the constant traffic load.

 

4. Dams and Reservoirs: Its capability to resist water pressure makes it perfect for such massive structures.

 

5. Drainage Systems: RCC pipes provide durability and corrosion resistance for sewage systems.

 

6. Marine Constructions: For structures like docks and piers that must withstand harsh marine environments.

 

 

Why Use RCC in Home Building?

For home builders, choosing RCC for their projects brings several key benefits:

 

1. Durability: RCC structures are known for their long life span, resisting environmental stresses and reducing the need for frequent repairs.

 

2. Strength: The combination of concrete and steel ensures a strong structure that can support heavy loads, making it ideal for multi-story buildings.

 

3. Resistance: RCC offers excellent resistance to fire, rust, and weathering, safeguarding the home and its inhabitants.

 

4. Versatility: With RCC, architects and builders are not limited in their designs, allowing for innovation and creativity in constructing homes.

 

 

Knowing what RCC is, and by understanding the meaning of RCC, builders and architects often prefer it for creating strong, long-lasting homes that offer safety and comfort.

In order to understand the RCC structure better, it is also important to understand the different kind of forces or structural loads that act upon a building:

-Dead Loads

Known as dead loads, sturctural elements like walls & facades are permanent forces that act downwards on the building and come from the weight of the building itself.

-Live Loads

Live loads are those variable downward forces that depend on the weight of the structure’s occupants, furniture and more. As live loads can vary with time, it is important for the design to account for their effect on a building’s structural integrity & strength.

-Dynamic Loads

A common occurrence on structures like bridges or parking lots, dynamic loads are those variable forces that come from foot & vehicular traffic, including both accelerating & braking loads.

-Wind Loads

A crucial design factor for taller buildings, wind loads are the forces that come from wind speed and direction. All building structures are designed to withstand not only everyday but also rare but extreme wind conditions.

-Earthquake Loads

As the name suggests, earthquake loads are the forces that act upon a structure in the event of an earthquake. In an earthquake, a building is shaken both horizontally and vertically. The heavier and larger the building, the greater is the force acting upon it.

Now that you know what an RCC structure is and what are the various forces or loads that act upon your home, you are ready to take the next step in the construction of your dream home. Considering the everyday forces that a structure must withstand, and the threat of extreme conditions, it is essential to re-inforce your home with strong, superior quality and highly ductile & tensile steel rebars!