Fire resistance of reinforced concrete columns

This contrubution shows studies to fire resistance of reinforced concrete columns, based on a structural analysis with an advanced calculation model. The analysis covers simply supported columns as well as cantilever columns with buckling length in case of fire up to 20.0 m. For simply supported columns in multistorey-buildings a new classification table will be suggested because of the general storey height of approximately 4.0 m. Cantilever columns can be classified in fire resistance classes in compliance with praktice conditions (Level-1 method). Finally safety considerations for reinforced concrete columns will be performed, which show, that existing concrete columns, which are designed in conformity with the minimum dimensions of german standards (table 31 in DIN 4102-4), are stable in case of fire, if they are planned and built in compliance to acknowledged rules of technology.