Structural Systems: Steel and Reinforced Concrete (RC)

[okandrea]

TL;DR

How can a steel structural system be connected to a reinforced concrete structural system?

I've been looking over precedents for a design project and I noticed that the most commonly used systems are either steel or reinforced concrete structural systems. Is it possible for a steel structural system to be connected to a reinforced concrete structural system? If so, how does it work?
This question excludes the use of composite (steel/concrete) systems.

 

[jrmichler]

This is commonly done with steel columns on concrete. Look in any handbook of steel structures or the AISC Steel Construction Manual for column bases or column base plates. Also, and at least as important, look in a book about reinforced concrete, such as Reinforced Concrete Design, by Limbrunner.

The general principle is threaded rods extending out of the concrete that are tied to the rebar in the concrete. The steel is welded/bolted to a baseplate that is grouted and bolted to the concrete. It's common practice, but you do need to do the calculations very carefully. Moment and tension loads especially need careful analysis.

 

[Baluncore]

Google images; ' rag-bolt assembly '

 

[Lnewqban]

Additional considerations:
1) Difference of rigidity of both structures (steel structure tends to move and swing under live loads and, if undesired, it requires attention to bracing).
2) Difference of thermal expansion and contraction.
3) Steel will rust. As much as possible avoid solutions that accumulate rain and provide clearances for painting and for inspection of all steel surfaces.