Probabilistic numerical assessment of the bearing capacity of SFRC pipes with random fiber distribution

In this paper, a numerical study is carried out to assess the bearing capacity of SFRC pipes considering random orientation and distribution of the fibers. For this purpose, the three edge bearing test (TEBT) is simulated through a 3D finite element model in combination with the Monte Carlo method. The fibers are represented as discrete elements randomly distributed in the concrete mass. The pull-out phenomenon is considered by means of a modification of the steel constitutive model. In addition, a parametric study considering variations in the dosage of fibers and concrete class is conducted. Results shown that the randomness in the distribution and orientation of the fibers significantly affects the maximum load achieved by SFRC pipes. However, this maximum load does not vary significantly when the fiber distribution follows a uniform probability function; in this case the concrete class is the predominant parameter.