Plinth Beam:
A plinth beam is a beam member constructed at the plinth level, which separates the superstructure and substructure of the building.
The primary function of the plinth beam is to hold all the columns and walls together to transfer loads uniformly to the foundation.
Plinth beams are involved in all types of load transfer.
Plinth beams are constructed only at the plinth level.
The plinth beam reduces differential settlement and prevents cracks from reaching the wall and moisture penetration.
Plinth beams are constructed with reinforced cement concrete structures.
Tie-Beam:
Tie-beam is a beam member constructed at a height higher than the floor level to tie or connect two column members or rafters.
The main function of the tie-beam is to act as a length breaker for the column when the ceiling height is greater than the normal height. In such situations, a tie-beam joins the columns to reduce their efficient size and slenderness ratio.
Tie-beams are not engaged in any vertical load transfer but take axial compression load. They are used to increase the stiffness of the structure.
Tie beams are constructed anywhere between plinth level and floor level for columns with a height of more than 4 to 5 meters.
Tie-beam effectively prevents the column from buckling failure or holds the rafters and columns together in a truss system.
Tie-beams can be made of steel, wood, or reinforced cement concrete based on the type of building construction.
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