Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 1

Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure)

3.1 Introduction

Most reinforced concrete structures can be divided in to beams and slabs subjected primarily
to flexure (bending) and columns subjected to axial compression accompanied in most cases
by flexure. Typical examples of flexural members are the slab and beams shown in Fig. 3.1.
The load P applied at point A is carried by the strip of slab shown shaded. The end reactions
from this slab strip load the beams at B and C. the beams, in turn, carry the slab reactions to
the columns at D, E, F, and G. The beam reactions cause axial loads in the columns. The slab
in Fig. 3.1 is assumed to transfer loads in one direction and hence is called one way slab. If
there were no beams, the slab would carry the load in two directions. Such a slab is referred to
as two-way slab. Two way slab action will be discussed in chapter 7.

Fig. 3.1 One-way flexure

In this chapter the stress-strain curves for concrete and reinforcement as recommended by
EBCS-2 are used to develop flexural theory.

Analysis versus Design

Two different types of problems arise in the study of RC.

1. Analysis: Given a cross-section, concrete strength, reinforcement size, location, and
yield strength, and compute the resistance or capacity.
2. Design: Given a factored load effects such as Msd, and select a suitable cross-section,
including dimensions, concrete strength, reinforcement, and so on.

Although both types of problems utilize the same fundamental principles, the procedure
followed is different in each case. Analysis is easier as all the decisions concerning
reinforcement location, beam size and so on have been made and it is only necessary to apply
the strength calculation principles to determine the capacity. Design, on the other hand,
involves the choice of the beam sizes, material strengths and reinforcement to produce a
cross-section and structural system that can resist the loads and moments which will be
imposed on it. As the analysis problem is easier, most sections in this and other chapters
start with analysis to develop the fundamental concept and then move to consider
design.

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 2

The fundamental principles involved in the analysis and design of reinforced concrete
beams are as follows.

- At any cross section there exist internal forces which can be resolved in to
components normal and tangential to the section.
- The normal components are known as the bending stresses (tension on one side of
the neutral axis and compression on the other), and their function is to resist the
bending moment at the section.
- The tangential components are known as the shear stresses, and they resist the
transverse or shear forces.

3.2 Behavior of RC beams

In reinforced concrete beams, the tension caused by bending moment is mainly resisted by the
steel reinforcement while the concrete alone is usually capable of resisting the corresponding
compression. Such joint action of the two materials is assured if relative slip is prevented and
it is achieved by using deformed bars with their high bond strength at the steel-concrete
interface or by special anchorage of the ends of the bars.

There are three distinct stages of behavior for a reinforced concrete beam when the load is
gradually increased from zero to the magnitude that will cause the beam to fail (see Fig. 3.2)

Uncracked concrete Stage: At low loads, as the bending moment in a flexural member is so
small that the tension stress in the concrete doesn’t exceed the modulus of rupture, no flexural
tension cracks will occur and the entire concrete is effective in resisting stress, in compression
on one side and in tension on the other side of the neutral axis. In addition, the reinforcement,
deforming the same amount as the adjacent concrete, is also subject to tension stresses. At this
stage all stresses in the concrete are of small magnitude and are proportional to strains (see
Fig.3.2a).

As long as no tension cracks develop the strain and stress distribution is essentially the same
as in an elastic, homogeneous beam. The only difference is the presence of another material,
the steel reinforcement. In this "transformed section" the actual area of the reinforcement is
replaced with an equivalent concrete area equal to nAs located at the level of the steel (see Fig.
3.2a). Where n is the ratio of the modulus of elasticity of steel to that concrete (modular ratio)
and As is the area of steel.

Once the transformed section has been obtained, the usual methods of analysis of elastic
homogeneous beams apply. That is, the uncracked transformed section (gross cross-section)
will be used in the computation of section properties and stresses.

Bending stresses can be obtained from:  = My/Igross

The moment curvature diagram for this stage (segment O-B in Fig. 3.3) is linear.

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 3

Cracked Concrete Stage: At moderate loads, as the bending moment exceeds the cracking
moment of the section, tension cracks start to develop from the bottom extreme fiber and
propagate quickly upward to or close to the level of the neutral plane, which in turn shifts
upward with progressive cracking (see Fig. 3.2c). In well-designed beams, the width of these
cracks is so small (hairline cracks) that they are not objectionable from the viewpoint of either
corrosion protection or appearance. Their presence, however, profoundly affects the behavior
of the beam under load. Evidently, in a cracked section, the concrete does not transmit any
tension stresses and the steel is called upon to resist the entire tension. Therefore, the cracked
transformed section will be used in the computation of section properties and stresses. At
these loads, stresses and strains continue to be closely proportional (see Fig. 3.2b). At this
stage as the stiffness of the beam is reduced due to the reduction in the effective area of
concrete, the slope of the moment curvature diagram (shown by B-C-D in Fig. 3.3) is also
reduced.

The cracking moment can be obtained using the maximum tensile stress equal to the modulus
of rupture of concrete, that is: Mcr = crI/C, where cr = 0.7fck

Ultimate Stage: At higher loads (close to the ultimate load), stresses and strains rise
correspondingly and are no longer proportional and the distribution of concrete stresses on the
compression side of the beam is of the same shape as the stress strain curve (see Fig. 3.2b).

Once yielding has occurred, the curvature increases rapidly with very little increase in
moment (see Fig. 3.3). Eventually, the carrying capacity of the beam is reached. And failure
can be caused either due to the attainment of the yield point in steel in moderately reinforced
beams or due to crushing of concrete in the compression zone in highly reinforced beams.

(n - 1 )A s'
c fc
A fs'
s' s'

d h

A s s fs

ct f ct b
b
(n - 1 )A s

x - s e c t io n s t r a in s s tre s s e s u n c r a c k e d t r a n s f o r m e d s e c t io n

(a)

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 4

( n - 1 ) A s'
c fc b
A fs'
s' s'

d h

A s s fs
(n - 1 )A s
b
x - s e c t io n s t r a in s s tre s s e s c r a c k e d t r a n s f o r m e d s e c t io n

(b)

( n - 1 ) A s'
c b
fc
A s' s'

d h

A s s fs
(n - 1 )A s
b
x - s e c t io n s t r a in s s tre s s e s c r a c k e d t r a n s f o r m e d s e c t io n

(c)

Fig. 3.2 Behavior of reinforced concrete beam under increasing load

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 5

F a ilu r e
R e in f o r c e m e n t y ie ld s

M
S e r v ic e lo a d

 = / y

C r a c k in g

Fig. 3.3 Moment-curvature diagram for a beam under increasing load

Basic principles and assumptions in flexure theory of RC

Although the method used in the analysis of RC beams are different from those used in the
design of homogenous beam such as structural steel, the fundamental principles are
essentially the same. Accordingly, the basic equations for the flexural design of beams and
slabs are derived based on the following basic principles and assumptions at ultimate limit
state. The derived equations are then used to develop design Tables and Charts for various
grades of concrete and steel.
1. Internal stress resultants such as bending moments, shear forces etc. at any section of a
member are in equilibrium with the external action effects.
2. Plane sections before bending remains plane after bending
3. The strain in the reinforcement is equal to the strain in the concrete at the same level
4. The tensile strength of concrete is neglected
5. The stresses in concrete and reinforcement can be computed from the strains using their
- curves.
6. The behavior of the concrete under compression is as shown in Fig. 3.3. The equivalent
rectangular stress block as recommended by EBCS 2 is shown in Fig. (Concrete is
assumed to fail when the compressive strain reaches its ultimate value. The
compressive stress-strain curve for concrete may be assumed to be rectangular
trapezoidal, parabolic or any other shape,(which is easier for computation)
provided that it adequately predicts the test results).
7. The stress -strain relation ship of the reinforcement is as shown in Fig.3.3
8. The strain diagrams at the ultimate limit state is as shown in Fig. 3.4
a) The maximum compressive strain in the concrete is taken to be
- 0.0035 in bending
- 0.002 in axial compression
b) The maximum tensile strain in the reinforcement is taken to be 0.01

For manual calculation, for the sake of simplicity, the simplified rectangular stress block can
be used whereas design Charts and Tables are based on the parabola-rectangle stress
distribution diagram.

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 6

Strain Distribution at the Ultimate Limit State

The entire range of strain distribution at the ultimate limit state is assumed to pass through
one of the three points A, B or C as shown in Fig. 3.4 (reproduce from EBCS-2). This resulted
in five possible zones with respect to the limiting values of the ultimate strains in concrete and
steel as shown in the same figure.

Each zone is characteristic of the particular type of loading on the section and may be
described as follows:

Zone 1 - The section is subjected to a tensile load with a small eccentricity.

Zone 2 - The section is subjected to an axial load combined with bending that will cause
the strain in the steel to reach the maximum st = 0.01 while the strain in the concrete c
is less or equal to its maximum value of cu = -0.0035.
Zone 3 - The section is subjected to axial load and large bending moments. The tensile
steel strain is in the range 0.01  st  sy while the concrete strain reaches cu =
-0.0035.
Zone 4 - The section is subjected to axial load with moderate eccentricity. The tensile
steel strain is less than the yield value sy while the concrete strain reaches cu = -0.0035.
Zone 5 - The section is subjected to predominantly compressive load with small
eccentricity.

Fig. 3.4 Parabolic-rectangular stress-strain diagram for concrete in

compression

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 7

Fig. 3.5 Rectangular stress diagram

Fig. 3.6 Stress-strain diagram for reinforcing steel

Fig. 3.7 Strain diagram in the Ultimate Limit State

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 8

3.3 Tension, Compression and balanced Failure

Depending on the amount of reinforcing steel in a beam, flexural failures may occur in three
different ways.

Tension failure

If the steel content of the section is small, the steel will reach the yield strength f yd before the
concrete reaches its maximum capacity. Such a beam is said to be under reinforced. With
further loading, the steel force remains constant at Asfyd and the strains in the remaining
compression zone of the concrete increases to such a degree that crushing of concrete, the
secondary compression failure, follow at a load slightly larger than that which causes the steel
to yield (i.e. Although failure is initiated by yielding of tension steel, the steel does not
fracture at the flexural strength of the section unless the steel content is extremely small).
Such yield failure is gradual and is preceded by visible signs of distress, such as the widening
and lengthening of cracks and the marked increase in deflection. In the final loading stages,
the beam deflected extensively and developed wide cracks. This type of behavior is said
to be ductile since the moment curvature or load-deflection diagram has a long plastic
region. If a beam in a building fails in a ductile manner, the occupants of the building have
warning of the impending failure and hence have an opportunity to leave the building before
the final collapse, thus reducing the consequence of collapse.

Compression failure

If the steel content of the section is large, the concrete may reach its maximum capacity
before the steel yields. Such a beam is said to be over reinforced. In such a case the neutral
axis depth increases considerably, causing an increase in the compressive force. The flexural
strength of the section is reached when the strain in the extreme compression fiber of the
concrete is approximately 0.0035. The section fails suddenly in a brittle fashion with out
warning of the failure as the widths of the flexural cracks in the tension zone of the concrete
are small, owing to the low steel stress.

Compression failure through crushing of the concrete is sudden, of an almost explosive

nature, and occurs without warning.

Balanced failure

At a particular steel content, the crushing of concrete and yielding of reinforcement occur
simultaneously. Such a beam has balanced reinforcement. This failure also exhibits a brittle
type of failure which marks the boundary between ductile tension failure and brittle
compression failure.

Thus it is good practice to dimension flexural members in such a manner that when
overloaded, failure would be initiated by yielding of the steel rather than by crushing of the
concrete.

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 9

Negative Moment Redistribution in Continuous Beams

In ductile members, plastic hinge regions are formed at the locations of maximum moments
and cause a shift in the elastic moment diagram. The result is a reduction in the negative
moment and the corresponding increase in the positive moment. Codes, including EBCS 2,
permit redistribution of negative moment depending on the rotational capacity of the member.
Accordingly, as per EBCS 2:

- Moments obtained from a linear analysis may be reduced by multiplying by the

following reduction coefficient δ provided that the moments are increased in other
sections in order to maintain equilibrium
- For continuous beams and for beams in rigid jointed braced frames with span
/effective depth ratio not grater than 20;
x
  0.44  1.25
d
The neutral axis depth, x, is calculated at the ultimate limit state and the term x/d refers to
the section where the moment is reduced.

- For other continuous beams and rigid jointed braced frames;

  0.75

E la st ic M o m e n t d ia g r a m

R e d is t r ib u t e d M o m e n t d ia g r a m

Fig. 3.8 Negative moment redistribution in continuous beam

3.4 Analysis of Singly Reinforced Rectangular Beams for Flexure

Parabolic- rectangular stress block:

Although it is not easier for computation, the parabolic – rectangular stress distribution at the
ultimate is more realistic and rational than the others for the concrete compression stress
distribution. Accordingly, the General Design Charts and Tables in EBCS-2 have been
developed based on this stress distribution (see Fig.).

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 10

c f cd f cd
C  cd x

c(y )
c cc   fc ( y)bdy
dy f c( y ) 0
x y
y d h y
N .A
z

s te e l A s s T s
T s = A sf s

b
p a r a b o lic - r e c t a n g u la r
lo n g it u d in a l v ie w x - s e c t io n s t r a in s a c t u a l s t r e s s b lo c k
s t r e s s b lo c k

Fig. 3.9 Strain and stress distribution across beam depth/parabolic-rectangular stress block

Force Equation:

 FH  0  Cc  Ts
x
 As f s   f c ( y )dA (3.1)
0
Where: Ts = the resultant internal tensile force
As = area of steel
fs= steel stress
Cc = the resultant internal compressive force

Moment Equation:

Mrd = Cc Z = Cc d(1-c) or
Mrd = Ts Z = Ts d(1-c) (3.2)

Where: d, effective depth, is the distance of the centroid of steel area from the extreme
compression fiber..
c is the distance of the total resultant compression force C c from the outer
compression fiber.
Z, the internal lever arm, is the distance between the resultant internal
forces.

(Analysis example)

General formula for Cc and c for different cases:

Equations of equilibrium for cross-section strength analysis were generally solved using
numerical methods; however, for rectangular sections with reinforcement on two faces, the
following expressions were used for the determination of the resultant compressive force C c
developed in the concrete and its relative location c from the outer most compressive
concrete fibers:

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 11

Definitions:

cm - compressive strain in outer most concrete fiber

c - non-dimensionalized Cc
o - strain at the point on the parabolic-rectangular stress-strain diagram where the parabolic
section joins the linear section
sy - strain in reinforcement at yield point

Case (i) cm  o and N.A with in the section (zone 2)

 (6   cm )
 c  cm kx
12
(8   cm )
c  kx
4(6   cm )
cc   c f cd bd

Case (ii) cm > o and N.A with in the section (zone 2)
(3 cm  2)
c  kx
3 cm
 (3  4)  2
 c  cm cm kx
2 cm (3 cm  2)
cc   c f cd bd

Zone 3 and zone 4 (cu = 3.5 %)

K1 = 0.8095
K2 = 0.4160

Case (iii) cm > o and N.A outside the section (zone 5)

1
c  (125  64 cm  16 cm )
2

189
40 ( cm  2) 2
 c  0.5  ( )
7 125  64 cm  16 cm 2
cc   c f cd bd

In expressions (i), (ii) and (iii) strains are in o/oo, Kx = x/d and  o = 2 %o (0.002)

(The derivation of Cc and c (representative case), i.e.:

Case (i) cm  o and N.A with in the section (zone 2) )

Simplified Rectangular Stress Block

The actual distribution of the compressive force in a section has the form of a rising parabola
as shown in fig. The compressive stress-strain curve for concrete may be assumed to be

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 12

rectangular trapezoidal, parabolic or any other shape, which is easier for computation,
provided that it adequately predicts the test results. Therefore; as a simplification, EBCS 2
recommends (ACI also) the use of the equivalent rectangular concrete stress distribution for
sections which are partly in tension (beams or columns with large eccentricity), as shown
below.

c f cd f cd
cc  0.8xbfcd
0 .8 x
x
d h N .A
z = d - 0 .4 x

s te e l A s s fs T s = A sf s

b
e q u iv a le n t - r e c t a n g u la r
lo n g it u d in a l v ie w x - s e c t io n s t r a in s a c t u a l s t r e s s b lo c k
s t r e s s b lo c k
Fig. 3.10 Strain and stress distribution across beam depth/equivalent rectangular stress block
In order to define the effect of concrete compression stresses, it is not really necessary to
know the exact shape of the concrete stress distribution. What is necessary is to know
for a given distance of neutral axis:
(1) the total resultant compression force C in the concrete and
(2) its vertical location i.e. its distance from the outer compression
fiber.

Therefore; EBCS 2 recommends (ACI also) the use of the equivalent rectangular
concrete stress distribution for sections which are partly in tension (beams or columns
with large eccentricity), as shown below.

The equivalent rectangular stress block will be used in all manual calculations.

Note: Two requirements are satisfied though out the analysis and design of reinforced
concrete beams and columns (stress and strain compatibility and equilibrium)
- Stress and strain compatibility: The stress at any point in a member must
correspond to the strain at that point. Except for short deep beams, the
distribution of strain over the depth of the member must be linear to satisfy the
earlier assumptions 1 and 2.
- Equilibrium: The internal forces must balance the external load effects.

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 13

E xtre m e c u = 0 .0 0 3 5
c o m p r e s s io n
f ib e r
xt
xb T e n s io n f a ilu r e
xc fs = fy d  < b
d
B a la n c e d f a ilu r e
fs = fy d   b

C o m p r e s s io n f a ilu r e
fs < fy d   b
C e n t r o id o f
f yd
t e n s io n s t e e l  s   yd 
f yd Es
 s   yd 
Es
f yd
 s   yd 
Es

Fig. 3.11 Strain profiles at the flexural strength of a section

Balanced Failure (balanced Reinforcement):  = b, X = Xb and s = yd = fyd/Es

From the strain line at balanced failure:

 cu
xb  d (3.3a)
 cu   yd

Force equation:

 FH  0  A s f yd  0.8 xbbf cd (3.3b)

Substituting for xb from eqn (3.3a) in to eqn(3.3b) and simplifying:

 cu
As f yd  0.8 dbf cd
 cu   yd
As  cu f cd
  0.8
bd  cu   yd f yd

 cu f cd
   b  0.8 (3.3c)
 cu   yd f yd
Moment equation:

The moment equation about Cc results in:

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 14

M rd  b df yd (d  0.4 xb ) (3.4)

Tension Failure (under-reinforced Section) :  < b, X < Xb and s > yd = fyd/Es

Force equation:

 FH  0  A s f yd  0.8 xbf cd (3.5a)

 bdf yd  0.8 xbf cd

x f yd
 
d 0.8 fcd
f yd
 x  d (3.5b)
0.8 f cd

Moment equation:

The moment equation about Cc results in:

M rd  As f yd ( d  0.4 x) (3.6a)

Substituting the value of x from eqn (3.5b) and simplifying:

M rd  0.8bd 2 f yd m(1  0.4 m) (3.6c)

f yd
Where m 
0.8 f cd
The singly reinforced section capacity may be obtained from:

M rd  0.8 xbfcd ( d  0.4 x) (3.6d)

f yd
Where x  xmax   max d   max md
0.8 fcd

Compression Failure (over-reinforced Section):  > b, X > Xb and s < yd = fyd/Es

From the strain line at compression failure:

s dx

0.0035 b x
dx
  s  0.0035
x
dx
Therefore; f s   s Es  0.0035 Es
x

Force equation:

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 15

 FH  0  A s f s  0.8 xbf cd (3.7a)

dx
 bd (0.0035 E s )  0.8xbf cd
x
 f cd  2
   x  dx  0.8d 2  0 (3.7b)
 0 .0035 E s  
Therefore the above equation may be solved to obtain X.

Moment equation:

The moment equation about Ts results in:

M rd  0.8 xbf cd (d  0.4 x) (3.8)

(Analysis example)

3.5 Design of Singly Reinforced Rectangular Beams for Flexure

Generally, ductility is a design requirement in reinforced concrete structures to ensure that a

brittle failure will not occur. In EBCS-2, ductility is ensured by limiting the depth of the
neutral axis kx (used to determine the maximum carrying capacity of a singly reinforced
beam) to specified values depending on the percent plastic moment redistribution as:

Kx ≤ 0.8 (δ - 0.44)

Where: δ = reduction coefficient which multiplies the elastic moment (see section 3.4)

Accordingly,
Kx = 0.448 for condition of no redistribution and
Kx = 0.208 for a recommended max. of 30 %

Other codes of practice such as the ACI ensure ductility by limiting the reinforcement ratio, 
to a value below some specified value which is a function of the balanced reinforcement ratio,
bal.
  0.75bal

Parabolic-rectangular Stress block

Reconsider the two equilibrium equations for a rectangular section using the expressions
developed for a parabolic-rectangular stress block as follow:

As f yd   c f cd bd (3.9a)

 c f cd bd 2 k z  M sd (3.9b)

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 16

The number of unknowns in equations (3.9a) and (3.9b) are seven which are greater than the
number of available equilibrium equations (i.e. two), there fore the designer should make
decision on:

1) material strengths i.e. fcd, fyd

2) dimensions of cross sections b and d. The minimum thickness for deflection specified
in the code can be used as a guide and the ratio b/d varies between 0.3 and 0.6 in usual
practice.

So that c, As and kz are left as unknowns where c, and kz could both be expressed in terms
of kx or x. Thus the two equations are sufficient to uniquely determine the remaining two
unknowns As and Kx.

Equivalent-rectangular stress block

Reconsider the two equilibrium equations for a rectangular section using the expressions
developed for equivalent-rectangular stress block as follow:

As f yd  0.8 xbf cd (3.10a)

0.8 xbf cd ( d  0.4 x)  M sd (3.10b)

The number of unknowns in equations (3.10a) and (3.10b) are six which are greater than
the number of available equilibrium equations (i.e. two), therefore the designer should
make decision on:

3) material strengths i.e. fcd, fyd

4) dimensions of cross sections b and d. The minimum thickness for deflection

specified in the code can be used as a guide and the ratio b/d varies between 0.3 and
0.6 in usual practice.

So that c, As and kz are left as unknowns where c, and kz could both be expressed in
terms of kx or x. Thus the two equations are sufficient to uniquely determine the remaining
two unknowns As and Kx.

Equation 3.6c can be re-written and simplified to give the reinforcement ratio as:

1 4M 

2
c1  c1  2  (3.10c)
2 bd c2 
2. 5 f yd
Where: c1  , c2  0.32m2 f cd , m 
m 0.8 f cd

Then the area of steel required may be computed from:

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 17

As  bd (3.10d)

ongestion of reinforcements at the supports could be reduced by reducing the beam

support moments. But redistribution needs more ductile elements.
Most design do not use moment redistribution i.e. δ = Mp/ME = 1.0
Reducing by 20%implies δ =0.8 which in turn restrict the N.A depth Kx . Limitation in
Kx does affect ductility.

Flexural Reinforcement for Beams as per EBCS 2:

- The geometrical main reinforcement ratio  at any section of a beam where positive
reinforcement is required by analysis shall not be less than that given by: (to control
cracking of concrete)
0.6
 min  where fyk is in MPa
f yk
- The maximum reinforcement ratio max for either tensile or compressive reinforcement
shall be 0.04. (the tension reinforcement in a beam shall not exceed 4% of the
gross sectional area of the concrete to ensure proper placing and compacting of
concrete around the reinforcement)

Effective Span of Beams, EBCS 2 1995

- The effective span or length of a simply supported beam may be taken as the lesser of
:

a) The distance between the centers of supports

b) The clear distance between supports plus the effective depth d.

- The effective length of a continuous element shall normally be taken as the distance
between the centerline of the supports.

- For a cantilever the effective span is taken to be its length, measured from:
a) The face of the support, for an isolated, fixed-ended cantilever
b) The centre line of the support for a cantilever which forms the end of
continuous beam.
Effective Span of Beams, EC 2

The effective span (leff) may be calculated as follows:

Leff = ln +a1 +a2

Where ln is the clear distance between the faces of the supports and a1 and a2 are as in the
figure below.

Reinforced Concrete (I)

 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 18

Fig.3.12 Geometrical data for overall analysis

Design Using Chart

In the general design chart no.1 (EBSC 2, 1995), all values necessary for design are entered as
a function of the relative moment about the center of the tension steel. This diagram can be
used for any concrete or steel grade. In the zones of negative steel strains (sections entirely
under compression), however no accurate reading is possible. For that zone the use of
interaction diagrams can be used.

The following characteristic values are entered as a function of the relative moment:

x
kx  the relative neutral axis depth
d
z
kz  the relative lever arm b/n the internal forces
d
cc
c  the relative compression force in the concrete in the ultimate limit state
f cd bd
εc = compressive strain in outer most concrete fiber
εs1 = strain intension reinforcement
εs2 = Strain in compression reinforcement
The upper limits of the design values of the ultimate relative moment capacities( with out
compression reinforcement) about tension steel, for 0%, 10 %, 20%, and 30% moment
redistribution are shown by the broken vertical lines μ*u,s = 0.295, 0.252, 0.205, and 0.14
respectively. Compliance with these upper limits implies compliance with the upper limit
specification for the relative neutral axis depth, Kx, thus ensuring ductile response of the cross

Reinforced Concrete (I)

 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 19

section. For the cases that μsd,s > μ*u,s, ductile behavior can be achieved by providing
compression reinforcement.

The area of reinforcement required is determined from the following equations:

If μsd,s ≤ μ*u,s , compression reinforcement is not required and

M sd , s N sd
As1  
zf yd f yd
If μsd,s > μ u,s , compression reinforcement is required and
*

M sd , s  M *u , s
As 2 
(d  d 2 ) s 2

M *u , s M sd , s  M u , s N sd
*
As1   
zf yd (d  d 2 ) f yd f yd

 Starting from a strain profile in ULS: αc, kx, kz, μRd etc. are determined.
 In design the chart is entered by equating μsd = μRd, then kz is read and As1 is
determined from:
As1 = Msd / (kz d fyd)
 Another advantage is the possibility of handling axial forces in addition to
bending. The horizontal relative moment axis is designated as μRd,s for this reason
should an axial force be present, then it is shifted to the location of tension
reinforcement and the associated moment is added to Msd to give Msd,s.
Msd,s = Msd – Nsd ye (Nsd is +ve when tension) &

Design Using Tables (Kd - Method)

Procedure of computing design parameters using table involves the following and the table
has the following format.

Km Ks
C15 C20 C25 C30 C40 S300 S400 S460
15 17 19 21 24 3.95 2.96 2.58
- - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - -

M
- Evaluate km 
bd 2
Where: M in KN.m, b & d in m

Reinforced Concrete (I)

 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 20

- Enter the table for appropriate concrete grade used

- Obtain Ks corresponding to steel grade & Km
- Evaluate the area of steel required as :
M
As  K s d
d

Discussion

Consider Md = 0.8bd2fcd pm (1-0.4pm)

x f x f k x f
Recall d   0.8 f    0.8 cd  x where k x  , m 
yd yd

cd d f yd m d 0.8f cd

k
When   x is substituted in equation (3*) and simplified
m
Md
 0.8 f cd k x (1  0.4k x )
bd 2

Md
Note that (1*)  km  0.8 f cd k x (1  0.4k x ) which is essentially a function of
bd 2
concrete grade & section property

Md M 1 M
On the other hand, As   d  ks d
f yd (d  0.4 x) d f yd (1  0.4k x ) d
1
 ks 
f yd (1  0.4k x ) Which implies that ks is a function of steel grade and
section property.

Thus the following example can be solved using the table as follows
b/h/d = 250/730/675mm
Md = 431.45KN.m

M 431.45 1
km   = 61.55, kd  = 0.0162
bd 2 0.25 * 0.675 2 km

The value of ks corresponding to C25, steel S300 is Ks = 4.68

M 432
Then As  K s d  4.68  2996mm 2
d 0.675

#  20 bars = 9.5

Use 10  20 bars

(Design examples using parabolic & rectangular)

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 21

3.6 Analysis and Design of One way Slabs for Flexure

One way slabs are concrete structural floor panels for which the ratio of the long span to the
short span equals or exceeds a value of two. When this ratio is less than 2, the floor panel
becomes a two way slab or plate, which will be covered in chapter six. A one way slab is
designed as a singly reinforced 1 meter wide beam strip using the same design and analysis
procedures discussed earlier for singly reinforced beams. Fig. shows a one way slab floor
system.

Loading for slabs is normally in KN per square meter (KN/m 2). One has to distribute the
reinforcement over the 1 meter strip and specify the center to center spacing of the reinforcing
bars.

Transverse reinforcement has to be provided perpendicular to the direction of bending in

order to resist shrinkage and temperature stresses.

1 m s trip

Fig.3.13 Isometric view of four-span continuous one-way-slab floor system

Flexural Reinforcement for Slabs as per EBCS 2:

- The geometrical main reinforcement ratio in a slab shall not be less than:
0.5
 min  where fyk is in MPA
f yk
- The ratio of the secondary reinforcement to the main reinforcement shall be at least
equal to 0.2.
- The spacing between main bars for slabs shall not exceed the smaller of 2h or 350mm.
where h is the thickness of the slab.
- The spacing between secondary bars shall not exceed 400mm.

Reinforced Concrete (I)

 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 22

= 400m m

2h  350m m

Fig. 3.14 Bar spacing in slabs

(Analysis and design example)

3.7 Doubly Reinforced Rectangular Beams

Doubly reinforced sections contain reinforcement both at the tension and at the compression
face. Compression steel may be required in design for the following reasons.

a. When either architectural limitation restrict the beam web depth at the mid span, or
the mid span section dimensions are not adequate to carry the support negative
moment even when the tensile steel at the support is sufficiently increased. In such
cases about one-third to one-half of the bottom bars at mid span are extended and
well anchored at the supports to act as compression reinforcement.
b. To increase the ductility of the section at flexural strength. It is evident that if
compression steel is in the section, the neutral axis depth will be smaller as the
internal compressive force is shared by the concrete and the compression steel.
c. To reduce deflection of beams at service loads
d. To support the shear reinforcement (stirrups)
c f cd f cd
d' f 's cs  As f s
' '
A 's 's
s te e l 0 .8 x
cc  0.8xbfcd
x
d h N .A
z = d - 0 .4 x

s te e l A fs
s
s T s = A sfs

b e q u iv a le n t - r e c t a n g u la r s t r e s s b lo c k
lo n g it u d in a l v ie w x - s e c t io n s t r a in s a c t u a l s t r e s s b lo c k & r e s u lt a n t in t e r n a l F o r c e s
Fig. 3.15 Doubly reinforced beam design

In the analysis or design of beams with compression reinforcement A s’, the section is
theoretically split in to two parts, as shown in Fig.

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 23

c f cd
A 's d' cc  0.8xbfcd cs  As f s
' '
s te e l 's 0 .8 x
x
d h
 + N .A
z = d - 0 .4 x

s te e l A s
s T = A
s1 s1 f s T s2 = A s2fs

b P a r t I o f t h e s o lu t io n P a r t I I o f t h e S o lu t io n
lo n g it u d in a l v ie w x - s e c t io n s t r a in s S in g ly r e in f o r c e d P a r t c o n t r ib u t io n o f c o m p r e s s io n
r e in f o r c e m e n t
Fig. 3.16 doubly reinforced beam design (singly reinforced part plus contribution of
compression reinforcement)

The two parts of the solution comprise:

(1) The singly reinforced part involving the equivalent rectangular stress block with the area
of tension reinforcement being (As-As’); and

(2) The two areas of equivalent steel As’ at both the tension and compression side to form the
coupleTs2 and Cs as the second part of the solution. It can be seen from Fig. that the total
resistance moment Mrd = Md1 + Md2, that is, the summation of the moments for Parts 1 and 2 of
the solution.

The analysis of such section is best carried out by assuming the compression reinforcement
bars to be yielded and check for compatibility of strain to verify whether the compression
steel yielded or not and use the corresponding stress in the steel for calculating the forces and
moments.

Let Md be the total design bending moment which this section sustains. Then
Md = Md1 + Md2
As =As1 + As2
Where Md1 = is the bending moment carried by the concrete and the corresponding steel
which may be obtained using case of singly reinforced section.
Md1 = 0.8bd2fcdp1m(1-0.4p1m) and As1 = p1bd

If the process involved is design: p1 = pmax = 0.75pb

If the process involved is analysis p1 = (As-As’) /bd < pmax
It can be seen from Fig. that the total resisting moment M rd,t = Mrd1 + Mrd2, that is, the
summation of the moments for parts 1 and 2 of the solution.

From part I:

Force equation

T 1 = C1

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 24

As1fyd = (As-As’)fyd = 0.8xfcdb

'
( As  As ) f yd
x
0.8 f cd b

Moment equation

Taking the moment about the centroid of the compression zone:

Md1 = As1fyd(d - 0.4x) = (As - As’)fyd(d - 0.4x)

'
( As  As ) f yd
Where x 
0.8 f cd b
From part II:

Force equation

As’ = As2 = (As - As1)

T2 = C2 = As2fyd

Moment equation

Taking the moment about the tension reinforcement:

Md2 = As2fyd(d - d’)

Adding the moments for parts 1 and 2 yields:

Mrd = Md1 + Md2

= (As - As’)fyd(d - o.4x) + As’fyd(d - d’)

This equation is valid if As’ yields. Otherwise the beam has to be treated as a singly
reinforced beam neglecting the compression steel or one has to find the actual stress f s’
in the compression reinforcement As’ and use the actual force in the moment
equilibrium equation.

Beams are built with both tension and compression reinforcement for any of the
following reasons:
- To enhance strength (increase MRd)
- To increase ductility.
- To reduced sustained deflection (creep).
- To support the stirrups

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 25

Strain Compatibility Check

It is always necessary to verify that the strain across the depth follow a linear distribution
at the strength design levels. We recall that the minimum depth for a singly reinforced
section corresponds to Kx = 0.448 in order that the cross section possesses the minimum
ductility requirement. In this condition εs1 = 4.3%o and εcm = 3.5%o. once the strain is
verified to be higher than the yield strain, the moment capacity can be computed using the
previous equations. If the design action effect is higher than that corresponding to d min, that
is , μsd,s > 0.295, and if it is not possible to increase the depth d, the capacity can be
increased by using compression reinforcement, whereby the minimum ductility is
maintained.

a) Analysis of doubly reinforced beams

The general procedures are:

- Divide the x- section in to two hypothetical beams as shown above.
- Assume the compression reinforcement to be yielded
- Determine the tension steel which balances compressive force due to the
compression reinforcement
- Determine the moment capacity of the compression reinforcement and the
corresponding tension reinforcement.
- Determine the depth of the stress block by equating the compressive force in the
concrete with the tensile force as a result of the remaining tension reinforcement.
- Determine the additional moment capacity.
- Determine the total moment capacity by super imposing the two values.
- Check whether the assumption was correct or not
- If the assumption was not correct, use the force and moment equilibrium
equations considering the actual stresses in the compression steels.

b) Design of doubly reinforced beams

Similar to the analysis, the general procedures for the design of doubly reinforced
sections are:
- Check whether double reinforcement is required or not
- Determine the moment capacity of the concrete with out compression
reinforcement
- Determine the tension steel which couple the compressive force
- Determine the extra moment to be resisted by the compression steel and the
additional tension steel.
- Determine the additional tension steel to carry this moment
- Calculate the compression reinforcement assuming that it has yielded.
- Check whether the compression reinforcement has yielded or not using
compatibility of strain

(Analysis and design Example)

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 26

3.8 Flanged Beams (T and L-beams)

When concrete roofs or floor slabs are cast monolithically with supporting beams, T or L are
created as shown in fig. below. Forms are built for beam soffits and sides and for the under
side of slabs, and the entire construction is poured at once, from the bottom of deepest beam
to the top of the slab. It is evident, therefore, that a part of the slab will act with the upper part
of the beam to resist longitudinal compression. The resulting beam cross-section is T or L-
shaped rather than rectangular.

Fig.3.17 Flanged beams

Effective flange width

When the spacing between the beams is large, it is evident that simple bending theory does
not strictly apply because the longitudinal compressive stress in the flange will vary with
distance from the beam web, the flange being more highly stressed over the web than in the
extremities (see Fig.) . This variation in flange compressive stress occurs because of shear
deformations in the flange (shear lag), which reduces the longitudinal compressive strain
with distance from the web.

Fig. 3.18 Distribution of maximum flexural compressive strength.

In design, to take the variation of compressive stress across the flange into account, it is
convenient to use an effective width of flange that may be smaller than the actual width but is
considered to be uniformly stressed (see Fig.)

Reinforced Concrete (I)

 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 27

b eff

Fig. 3.19 Flexural compressive stress distribution assumed in design

Effective width, EBSC 2, 1995

According to EBCS – 2 (Art. 3.7.8), the effective width bf shall not exceed the lesser of :

For T beams:
a) thickness of the web plus one- fifth of the effective span or
b) the actual width of the top slab (extending b/n the centers of the
adjacent spans)
For L beams:
a) thickness of the web plus one- tenth of the effective span or
b) Thickness of the web plus half the clear distance to the adjacent beam.

For analysis when a great accuracy is not required, for example, continuous beams in
buildings a constant effective width (beff) may be assumed over the whole span.

The effective width for a symmetrical T- beam may be taken as :

beff = bw+1/5lo < b

And for an edge beam, that is with floor on one side only

beff = bw +1/10lo < bi + bw (i = 1 or 2)

The distance lo between points of zero moment may be obtained from the figure below for
typical cases:

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 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 28

The following conditions should be satisfied

i) The length of the cantilever should be less than half the adjacent span
ii) The ratio of adjacent spans should lie between 1 and 1.5

Analysis and Design of Flanged Beams

The basic principle used for analysis and design of rectangular beams are also valid for the
flanged beams. The major difference between the rectangular and flanged sections is in the
calculation of compressive force Cc. Depending on the depth of the neutral axis, X, the
following cases can be identified.

a) Depth of neutral axis X less than flange thickness hf, see Fig.

This case can be treated similarly to the standard rectangular section provided that the depth
0.8x of the equivalent rectangular block is less than the flange thickness. The flange width b f
of the compression side should be used as the beam width in the analysis or design.

b e ff c fcd
x 0 .8 x C c = 0 .8 x f c d b e ff
h f
N .A

h d z = ( d - 0 .4 x )

A s s fs
T s = A sf y d

b w

x - s e c t io n s t r a in s s tre s s e s r e s u lt a n t in t e r n a l
fo rc e s

Fig.3.20 T- beam section with neutral axis within the flange

Force equilibrium gives:

As1fyd = 0.8xfcdbf

As1 f yd
 x
0.8 f cd b f

Moment equilibrium gives:

Reinforced Concrete (I)

 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 29

Mrd = As1fyd(d - 0.4x)

s1 yd A f
Where x  0.8 f b
cd f

General design chart can be used.

b) Depth of neutral axis X Larger than flange thickness hf, see Fig.

In this case, x > hf, the depth of the equivalent rectangular stress block 0.8x could be smaller
or larger than the flange thickness hf. If x is greater than h f and 0.8x is less than hf, the beam
could still be considered as a rectangular beam for design purpose. Hence the design
procedure explained above is applicable to this case.

If both x and 0.8x are greater than hf, the section has to be considered as a T-section. This type
of T-beam can be treated in a manner similar to that for a doubly reinforced rectangular
section (see Fig.).

b eff c fcd fcd

C c1= h f(b eff - b w ) fc d
h f h f C = 0 .8 x f c db w
c2
x 0 .8 x
N .A
h d +
 z = ( d - 0 .5 h f) z = (d - 0 .4 x )
A s1
s
T s1 = A sff y d T s2 = (A s1 - A sf) f y d
bw

x - se c t io n st r a in s P a r t I o f t h e s o lu t io n P a r t I I o f t h e so lu t io n
O v e r h a n g in g p o r t io n w e b p o r t io n

Fig.3.21 T- beam section with neutral axis in the web

As a computational device, it is convenient to divide the total tensile steel into two parts.

The first part, Asf, represents the steel area which, when stressed to f yd is required to balance
the compressive force in the overhanging portion of the flange. Thus,

Asf* fyd = fcd (bf - bw)hf

 Asf = fcd*hf(bf-bw)/fyd

The partial resisting moment capacity as a result of these forces:

Mult1 = Asf* fyd (d - hf/2)

The remaining steel area (As – Asf), at a stress fyd is balanced by the compression in the
rectangular portion of the beam.

From force equilibrium:

Reinforced Concrete (I)

 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 30

(As- Asf)fyd = fcd ( bw*0.8x)

From Moment equilibrium:

Mult2 = (As - Asf)fyd (d - 04x)

The total resisting moment, taking moments of the rectangles about the tension steel, gives:

Mrd = 0.8xfcdbw(d-0.4x) + fcd(bf-bw)hf(d-0.5hf)

General design chart is not applicable.

The resultant compressive force acts at the centroid of the T-shaped compressed area.

From force equilibrium

fcd(0.8xbw + hf(bf-bw)) = Asfyd

As f yd  f cd h f (b f  bw )
 x
f cd bw
The total moment

Mrd = 0.8xfcdbw(d-0.4x) + fcd(bf-bw)hf(d-0.5hf)

Note:
- When the T-section is subjected to bending moment and tension is produced in the
flange portion, the can be considered as a rectangular with b = bw for design purpose.

- For T-beam sections, when the flexural strength is reached, the depth to the neutral
axis is generally small because of the large flange area. Therefore; a tension failure
generally occurs and it is usually safe to assume in analysis that f s = fyd; and ck when
the flexural strength is reached check the validity of the assumption when the neutral
axis depth is found.

Note: the problem at hand is one of the following

(i) Analysis:
As is given
Determine Asf
Determine As-Asf
Determine N.A depth from force equilibrium.
(ii) Design:
If the N.A. is with in the flange
rectangular section(use the general design chart)
If the N.A. lies in the web:

Reinforced Concrete (I)

 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 31

Determine Asf and Mult1

Determine Mult2 = Msd - Mult1
Determine the required amount of reinforcement from the two equations.
(unknowns are As and x.)

Note: For -ve bending moment T- beams are not analyzed. It is rather analyzed
(designed) as rectangular beams.

(Analysis and Design Examples)

3.9 Ribbed Slabs

Ribbed slabs comprise closely spaced concrete joists which are monolithically built with thin
concrete slabs (See Fig). These are economical for buildings where there are long spans and
light and moderate live loads such as in hospitals or apartment buildings.

An advantage of such constriction systems is either effectiveness in spanning longer openings

and in reducing the dead loads by essentially eliminating concrete in tension in the space
between the ribs below the neutral axis. Near the supports the full depth is retained (the slab
is made soild) to achieve greater shear strength.

They can be formed in one of the following ways: (The topping is considered to contribute
to structural strength)

a) As a series of in situ concrete ribs cast between hollow or solid block formers which
remain part of the completed slab (See Fig.). Floors having hollow blocks are
generally constructed with blocks made of clay type or with concrete containing a
light weight aggregate.

Fig. 3.22 Cross section of a ribbed slab cast with integral hollow block

b) As a series of in situ concrete ribs cast monolithically with the concrete topping on
removable forms (see Fig).

Reinforced Concrete (I)

 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 32

Fig. 3.23 Cross section of a ribbed slab cast on removable formers

c) As an apparently solid slab but containing permanent forms to create voids within the
cross section (See Fig.)

Fig. 3.24 Cross section of a ribbed slab cast with permanent void formers

The design of ribs can follow the design principles of T-beams except that the closeness of the
joist ribs in a floor system resulting into a good redistribution of local over loads to adjacent
members

Design of ribbed Slab, as per EBCS 2 (general requirement)

Sizes:

1) Ribs shall not be less than 70mm in width; and shall have a depth, excluding any
toping, of not more than 4 times the minimum width of the rib. The rib spacing shall
not exceed 1.0m (must not exceed 1.5m).
2) thickness of topping shall not be less than 40mm, nor less than 1/10 the clear distance
between ribs

Minimum Reinforcement

1) The topping shall be provided with a reinforcement mesh providing in each direction a
cross sectional area not less than 0.001 of the section of the slab.
2) If the rib spacing exceeds 1.0m, the toping shall be designed as a slab resting on ribs,
considering load concentrations, if any.

Transverse ribs

1) transverse ribs shall be provided if the span of the ribbed slab exceeds 6.0m
2) when transverse ribs are provided, the centre to center distance shall not exceed 20
times the overall depth of the ribbed slab
3) The transverse ribs shall be designed for at least half the values of maximum moments
and shear force in the longitudinal ribs.

Reinforced Concrete (I)

 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 33

Fig. 3.25 General requirement for ribbed slabs, EC2

The ribbed slabs are formed using temporary or permanent shuttering. the forms which
remain part of the completed structure may contribute to the structural strength of the
slab. If not they can be regarded as non removable formers. It should be remembered
that we are talking about in situ concrete slabs, not slabs consisting of pre-cast concrete
ribs with in fill blocks between them, on top of which is cast a concrete topping. Where
the block do contribute to the structural strength they will be referred as structural-type
blocks which comply with requirements of EBCS. Although these blocks may contribute
to flexural strength, their main contribution is regarding shear and deflection.

(Analysis and design example)

Reinforced Concrete (I)

 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 34

Reinforced Concrete (I)

 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 35

Reinforced Concrete (I)

 Chapter Three: Ultimate Limit State (Flexure) 36

Reinforced Concrete (I)