EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF PULL OUT STRENGTH OF FLEXIBLE TIES IN THIN BRICK VENEER LAYER

The use of thin brick veneer layers for building facades becomes more popular nowadays. Using thin bricks (50−65 mm thick) instead of normal 100−120 mm thick bricks let us to save expenses up to 50% related to materials. The connection of thin veneer layer with inner construction wall must be assured. Usually, the connection is fulfilled using flexible metal or composite ties. The main issue for this connection is tie pull out strength from thin brick masonry. This strength depends on type and construction of ties and it governs the number of ties need for facades. This article describes experimental research of pull out strength of flexible steel ties in thin brick masonry. Two possible anchoring types were used. Experimental test results and analysis are described in the article.