Analysis of some historical sizing rules for arch-wall-piers systems

Starting in the 16th century, a number of scholars attempted to determine the minimum thickness of piers in arch-wall-piers systems so as to guarantee their stability. In this paper, we compare some of the many different sizing rules proposed during past centuries, and investigate the mechanical behaviour of the corresponding arch-wall-piers systems via modern limit analysis. In particular, an example application is studied: a system formed by an arch, an overhanging masonry wall and the piers bearing the arch and wall. The thickness of the piers is dimensioned according to some of the most significant historical sizing rules, and the mechanical behaviour of such systems examined via the Durand-Claye method, in order to assess their load capacity.