Difference between Tie Beam and Plinth Beam

There are various types of beams used for the construction of various types of buildings, here we will learn the major difference between tie-beam and plinth beam.

A beam is a horizontal member provided to transfer loads from the higher structure to the column and walls or foundations, it could transfer both dead loads and live loads.

Plinth Level:

The finished floor level at which the building or structure rests is called the plinth level, its construction being slightly increased than the ground level.

Ground Level:

The ground level is the natural surface of the earth on which it builds.

The primary purpose of the plinth level is to keep above the floor level to prevent water from coming into the building, due to which a drainage system can be easily installed.

As a result, there will likely be a difference in ground and plinth levels.

Plinth beam vs Tie beam:

What is Plinth Beam?

The beams constructed on the plinth level often known as plinth beams also called as non-reinforced.

In frame structure construction, the plinth beam ties all of the columns of the structure to reduce the slenderness ratio of the columns.

Reinforcement is used according to the structure design, however, a minimum of two main bars above and under 10 mm diameter is used for its construction.

However, reinforcing the plinth beam is not necessary.

Function of Plinth Beam:

1. The plinth beam prevents differential settlement in buildings as a result of all the load on the plinth beam is uniformly transferred to the foundation.
2. It prevents moisture from the foundation to enter the building.
3. It ties all of the columns.
4. This prevents cracks from the foundation from reaching the wall.
5. Also, prevents the building from falling during an earthquake.
6. Plinth beams distribute the load evenly.

What is a Tie Beam?

When the ceiling height exceeds the normal height of the structure, this beam is provided, they act as a size breaker within the column.

The tie beam connects the two or extra columns to reduce their efficient size and slenderness ratio.

Mostly, tie beams are provided above the plinth level and within the roof trusses they do not transfer any load and reduce the efficient size of the columns.

A tie beam is recommended when the height of the column will increase from four to five meters whereas this is not the exact number to be considered, designers can change it to suit their needs.

Function of Tie Beams:

1. Tie beams are used to carry axial compression.
2. To reduce the efficient size of the column.
3. It prevents the column from buckling.
4. Also, reduce the slenderness ratio.

Also read: Difference between Beam and Column

Difference between tie beam and plinth beam:

Plinth beam	Tie beam
The plinth beam comes at ground level.	Tie beam can come at any level of the structure.
It provides the level difference between the formations to the inside floor level.	It provides the level difference between the formations to inside floor level.
Plinth beam retains the filled soil inside the building.	Tie beam can come below the ground or above the ground.
It provides a base for the brick work.	It act as a stiffener to the columns.
This beam distributes the load on all footings.	This beam does not carry vertical load of slab or walls but takes axial compression load.

Also read: Limit State Method and Working Stress Method

Conclusion:

The main difference is that the plinth beam is constructed at the plinth level and the tie beam is constructed at or above the plinth level.