Rebar Requirements 2

[Dave169]

I am designing a concrete columm to support (4) 12" x 12" timber columns that form a square with 6" space in the middle. The Timbers have a small compressive load (3K each) and are only this large for aesthetics. Ideally I would like a 30" x 30" x 72" column on top of a footing to support these timbers and attach stone work to.

To meet ACI reinenforcement requirements a a large amount of rebar is needed since the column is so large even though the loading is minor.

Is there another way to approach this problem so I don't need so much rebar?

 

[JedClampett]

You can still design under code for up to one-half the minimum compression steel if you use one-half the section properties (ACI 318-02 paragraph 10.8.4).

 

[dik]

Can the conc stub be considered as a plain conc pedestal? and then chuck some rebar in for comfort?