Section 7.7 of ACI 318-11 specifies concrete protection for reinforcement. The RAM Concrete Wall module checks ACI Section 7.7.1, the minimum cover for cast-in-place concrete and Section 7.7.3 for precast concrete in Tilt-up walls. This requirement is manifested in the placement of the bar reinforcement. The clear cover is measured to the bar that is closest to the wall face, that can be horizontal or vertical depending on the Design criteria settings.

The lateral location of the horizontal layer is set based on the clear cover requirement (see Figure below). Since this is always enforced by the program, no failure messages regarding this ACI section are delivered.

Basis of bar location in the RAM Concrete Wall module

Bar location options in the RAM Concrete Wall module for ACI codes