A concrete corbel is a bracket-like element that is used to distribute loads and reduce bending moment forces at member connections in a structure. Corbels are also sometimes used for decorative or architectural purposes. Concrete corbels are often reinforced with steel to add tensile strength to improve the corbel load-carrying capacity and ability to transition loads from vertical members to horizontal members. Concrete corbels need to be carefully engineered with help from tools like the Concrete Corbel Design Calculator to ensure they are fit for purpose.

Concrete corbels typically require reinforcement with steel such as bar and mesh that is embedded into the concrete. Reinforcement of concrete corbels helps to prevent cracking, improve load-bearing capacity, and control tensile strength. Local engineering standards should be referred to when completing reinforced corbel design as these should contain guidelines for the placement and layout of reinforcement.

Concrete corbels can be used in many types of residential and commercial structures. They are also used in structures like bridges, dams, and retaining walls. If you need to design a corbel then get started with the SkyCiv concrete corbel design calculator above.

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The following results are available:

• Shear utilization ratio
• Design shear strength
• Shear friction strength
• Required shear friction reinforcement
• Required steel to resist bending moment
• Primary reinforcement
• Minimum total area of closed stirrups parallel to primary tension reinforcement
• Development length of primary reinforcement