Fire test on RC columns under axial load.

The full-scale fire tests of three RC columns under axial load were carried out with standard heating curves. The immediate reactions and collapse states of tested columns were analyzed and the temperature distribution of sections and axial deformations were measured. The degradation of bearing capacity of RC columns was found mainly on the following respects : the degradation of concrete strength, the increase of axial deformations and the destructions of working performances. Computer simulation compiled by author was done using the finite element method. The numerical results agree well with test data. A simplified calculation formula is put forward for RC column bearing capacity under fire, which is proved to be reliable according to the comparisons between test record and calculation results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]