The main aim of providing stirrups in beam is to hold the main reinforcement rebars together in RCC structure. They are provided at proper intervals to beam and columns for preventing them from buckling. Stirrups also protect the RCC structures from getting collapsed during earthquakes. Stirrups are sometimes placed diagonally and often vertically as well. This is done to prevent shear failure which is usually diagonal in case of cracks in beams. The primary reason for the diagonal shear is due to compression and tension caused by transverse and vertical tension. Eventually diagonal tension occurs since concrete is stronger in compression as compared to tension. This tension is bound by steel stirrup which holds the cracked surface together.

Craig Mason
Engineering Manager