ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.

Y Reinforced Concrete I

CHAPTER 2. LIMIT STATE DESIGN FOR RC BEAMS

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
2.1. INTRODUCTION TO STATICS OF BEAM BEHAVIOUR
A beam is a structural member that supports applied loads and its own weight primarily by
internal moments and shears. Figure 2-1a shows a simple beam that supports its own dead
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
weight,  per unit length, plus a concentrated load, P. if the axial applied load, N, is equal to
zero, as shown, the member is referred to as a beam. If N is a compressive force, the member is
called a beam-column. This chapter will be restricted to the very common case where N = 0 .

Figure 2-1 – Internal forces in a beam

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 1
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

The loads  and P cause bending moments, distributed as shown in Figure 2-1b. The bending
moments is a load effect calculated from the loads by using the laws of statics. For a simply
ASTU,beam
supported SoCEA,
of aCivil Engineering
given span andDepartment
for a given 2022/23 A.Y  and P, the moments are
set of loads
independent of the composition and size of the beam.

At any section within the beam, the internal resisting moment, M, shown in Figure 2-1c is
ASTU,
necessary to SoCEA, Civil
equilibrate theEngineering Department
bending moment. 2022/23
An internal A.Y shear, V, also is required, as
resisting
shown.

The internal resisting moment, M, results from an internal compressive force, C, and an internal
tensile force, T, separated by a lever arm, jd, as shown in Figure 2-1d. Because there are no
external axial loads, summation of the horizontal forces gives

C −T = 0 or C = T (2-1)
If moments are summed about an axis through the point of application of the compressive force,
C, the moment equilibrium of the free body gives

M = T  jd (2-2)
Similarly, if moments are summed about the point of application of the tensile force, T,

M = C  jd (2-3)
Because C = T, these two equations are identical. Equations (2-1), (2-2) and (2-3) come directly
from statics and are equally applicable to beams made of steel, wood, or reinforced concrete.

The conventional elastic beam theory results in the equation  = My I , which, for an
uncracked, homogeneous rectangular beam without reinforcement, gives the distribution of
stresses shown in Figure 2-2.

Figure 2-2 – Elastic beam stresses and stress blocks

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 2
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

The stress diagram shown in Figure 2-2c and Figure 2-2d may be visualized as having a
“volume”;
ASTU,hence,
SoCEA,one
Civilfrequently
Engineering
refers
Department
to the 2022/23
compressive
A.Y stress block. The resultant
compressive force C, which is equal to the volume of the compressive stress block in Figure 2-
2d, is given by

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

In a similar manner, one could compute the force T from the tensile stress block. The forces C
and T act through the centroids of the volumes of the respective stress blocks. In the elastic case,
these forces act at h 3 above or below the neutral axis, so that jd = 2h 3 .

From Equations (2-3)and (2-4) and Figure 2-2, we can write

or, because

bh3 (2-7)
I=
12
And

ymax = h/2 (2-8)

It follows that

c(max)I (2-9)
M=
ymax

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 3
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
Thus, for the elastic case, identical answers are obtained from the traditional beam stress
equation (2-9), and when the stress block concept is used in equation (2-5)
ASTU,beam
The elastic SoCEA, Civil
theory in Engineering Department
equation (2-9) is not used 2022/23 A.Y of reinforced concrete beams,
in the design
because the compressive stress-strain relationship for concrete becomes nonlinear at higher strain
values. What is even more important is that concrete cracks at low tensile stresses, making it
necessary
ASTU,to provide
SoCEA, steel
Civil reinforcement to carry the tensile
Engineering Department 2022/23force,
A.Y T.
2.2. DISTRIBUTION OF STRAINS AND STRESSES ACROSS A SECTION IN
BENDING
The theory of bending for reinforced concrete assumes that the concrete will crack in the regions
of tensile strains and that, after cracking, all the tension is carried by the reinforcement. It is also
assumed that plane sections of a structural member remain plane after straining, so that across
the section there must be a linear distribution of strains.

Figure 2-3 – RC rectangular beam

Figure 2-3 shows the cross-section of a member subjected to bending, and the resultant strain
diagram, together with three different types of stress distribution in the concrete:

1. The triangular stress distribution applies when the stresses are very nearly proportional to
the strains, which generally occurs at the loading levels encountered under working
conditions and is, therefore, used at the serviceability limit state.
2. The rectangular-parabolic stress block represents the distribution at failure when the
compressive strains are within the plastic range, and it is associated with the design for
the ultimate limit state.
3. The equivalent rectangular stress block is a simplified alternative to the rectangular
parabolic distribution.

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 4
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
2.3. ULTIMATE LIMIT STATE FOR FLEXURE

2.3.1. BASIC ASSUMPTIONS FOR FLEXURE AT ULS

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
The theory of flexure for reinforced concrete is based on four basic assumptions, which are
sufficient to allow one to calculate the moment resistance of a beam.

[Link],
Sections perpendicular
SoCEA, to the axis
Civil Engineering of bending 2022/23
Department that are plane
A.Y before bending remain plane
after bending.
2. The strain in the reinforcement is equal to the strain in the concrete at the same level.
3. The stresses in the concrete and reinforcement can be computed from the strains by using
stress-strain curves for concrete and steel.
4. The tensile strength of the concrete is ignored.

The first of these is the traditional “plane sections remain plane” assumption made in the
development of flexural theory for beams constructed with any material. The second assumption
is necessary, because the concrete and the reinforcement must act together to carry load. This
assumption implies a prefect bond between the concrete and the steel.

However, the assumptions are not strictly true. The deformations within a section are very
complex, and, locally, plane sections do not remain plane. Nor, due to local bond slip, are the
strains in the concrete exactly the same as those in the steel. Nevertheless, on average, the
assumptions are correct, and are certainly sufficiently true for practical purposes for design of
normal members.

2.3.2. POSSIBLE RANGE OF STRAIN DISTRIBUTIONS AT ULS

The possible range of strain distributions given in EN 1992-1-1-2004 is shown in Figure 2-4.

Figure 2-4 – Possible strain distributions in the ultimate limit state

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 5
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
A more elaborative diagram for the possible strain distributions is shown in the figure below

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

Figure 2-5 – Ultimate Strain distributions

2.3.3. LIMITING COMPRESSIVE STRAINS AT ULS

It is universal to define failure of concrete in compression by means of a limiting compressive
strain. The formulation of the limit varies from code to code, for example the American Concrete
Institute code, ACI 318, uses a limit of 0.003, while the UK code BS 8110 uses 0.0035. For
concrete strengths not exceeding 50 N/mm2, the Eurocode adopts values of 0.0035 for flexure
and for combined bending and axial load where the neutral axis remains within the section, and a
limit of between 0.0035 and 0.002 for sections loaded so that the whole section is in
compression.

The logic behind the reduction in the strain limit for axial compression is that, in axial
compression, failure will occur at the strain corresponding to the attainment of the maximum
compressive stress. This is 0.002 for concrete strengths not exceeding 50 N/mm2. In flexure,
considerably higher strains can be reached before the maximum capacity of the section is
reached, and the value of 0.0035 has been obtained empirically.

2.4. TYPES OF FLEXURAL FAILURES

There are three types of flexural failures of reinforced concrete sections: tension, compression
and balanced failures. These three types of failures may be discussed to choose the desirable type
of failure from the three, in case failure is imminent.

A. Tension Failure

If the steel content As of the section is small, the steel will reach fyd before the concrete reaches
its maximum strain of εcu . With further increase in loading, the steel force remains constant at fyd
As, but results a large plastic deformation in the steel, wide cracking in the concrete and large

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 6
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
increase in compressive strain in the extreme fiber of concrete. With this increase in strain the
stress distribution in the concrete becomes distinctly non-linear resulting in increase of the mean
[Link],
Because equilibrium
SoCEA, of internalDepartment
Civil Engineering forces should be maintained,
2022/23 A.Y the depth of the N.A
decreases, which results in the increment of the lever arm z. The flexural strength is reached
when concrete strain reaches εcu . This phenomenon is shown in Figure 2-6. This type of failure
is preferable and is used for design.
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

Figure 2-6 – Tension Failure

B. Compression Failure
If the steel content As is large, the concrete may reach its capacity before steel yields. In such a
case the N.A depth increases considerably causing an increase in compressive force. Again, the
flexural strength of the section is reached εcu. The section fails suddenly in a brittle fashion. This
phenomenon is shown in Figure 2-7.

Figure 2-7 – Compression Failure

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 7
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
C. Balanced Failure

At balanced failure the steel reaches fyd and the concrete reaches a strain of εcu simultaneously.
ASTU, SoCEA,
This phenomenon Civil Engineering
is shown Department 2022/23 A.Y
in Figure 2-8.

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

Figure 2-8 – Balanced Failure

2.5. ANALYSIS OF BEAMS FOR FLEXURE AT THE ULS

Two requirements are satisfied throughout the flexural analysis and design of reinforced concrete
beams and columns:
1. Stress and strain compatibility: The stress at any point in a member must correspond to
the strain at that point
2. Equilibrium: Internal forces must balance the external load effects

2.5.1. ANALYSIS OF SINGLY REINFORCED BEAM SECTIONS

The general procedure of analysis of singly reinforced concrete beams for its flexural
resistance according to EN 1992-1-1-2004 is as follows.

• Step 1: Assume the type of failure

From section 2.4, there are three possible types of failure for reinforced
concrete beams under flexure. These are compression failure, tension failure
and balanced failure.

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 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

• Step 2: Draw the strain profile corresponding to the type of failure

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

a. Tension failure b. Compression failure c. Balanced failure

• Step 3: Take any of the three possible stress strain relationships for concrete described
in chapter 1 to define the stress block

a. Using parabola-rectangle diagram

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 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

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ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

b. Using Bi-linear diagram

c. Using rectangular diagram

• Step 4: Take the stress strain relationship for the reinforcement bar

• Step 5: Apply condition of equilibrium to the given stress block and conditions of
compatibility to the strain profile to estimate the neutral axis depth

• Step 6: Calculate the strain in the reinforcement bar and check if the assumed type of
failure is correct

• Step 7: If the assumption is correct, apply the moment equilibrium to the stress block
and estimate the moment capacity

• Step 8: If it is not correct, assume another type of failure and repeat steps 2 to step 6
until the assumption is proven to be true

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 10
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
2.5.2. ANALYSIS OF DOUBLY REINFORCED BEAM SECTIONS
Occasionally, beam sections are designed to have both tension reinforcement and
ASTU, SoCEA,
compression Civil Engineering
reinforcement. Department
These are referred to 2022/23
as doublyA.Y
reinforced sections.
The general procedure of analysis of doubly reinforced concrete beams for its flexural resistance
according to EN 1992-1-1-2004 is as follows.
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
• Step 1: Assume the type of failure

• Step 2: Draw the strain profile corresponding to the type of failure

• Step 3: Assume the strain in the negative reinforcement either to be greater than the
yield strain or to be less than the yield strain

• Step 4: Take any of the three possible stress strain relationships for concrete
described in chapter 1 to define the stress block

• Step 5: Take the stress strain relationship for the reinforcement bar

• Step 6: Apply condition of equilibrium to the given stress block and conditions of
compatibility to the strain profile to estimate the neutral axis depth

• Step 7: Calculate the strain in the negative reinforcement bars and check if the
assumption is step 3 is correct.

• Step 8: If the assumption is true, proceed to step 8, otherwise revise the assumption in
step 3 and repeat steps 4 to 7.

• Step 9: Calculate the strain in the positive reinforcement bar and check if the assumed
type of failure is correct

• Step 10: If the assumption is correct, apply the moment equilibrium to the stress block
and estimate the moment capacity

• Step 11: If it is not correct, assume another type of failure and repeat steps 2 to step
10 until the assumption is proven to be true

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 11
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
2.5.3. ANALYSIS OF FLANGED SECTIONS

[Link]. Introduction
In theASTU, SoCEA,shown
floor system Civil in
Engineering
Figure 2-9,Department 2022/23toA.Y
the slab is assumed carry the loads in one direction to
beams that carry them in the perpendicular direction. During construction, the concrete in the
columns is placed and allowed to harden before the concrete in the floor is placed. In the next
construction operation, concrete is placed in the beams and slab in a monolithic pour. As a result,
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
the slab serves as the top flange of the beams, as indicated by the shading in Figure 2-9. Such a
beam is referred to as a T-beam. The interior beam, AB, has flange on both sides. The spandrel
beam, CD, with a flange on one side only, is often referred to as an inverted L-beam.

Figure 2-9 – T-beams in a one-way beam and slab floor

Figure 2-10 – Positive and negative moment regions in a T-beam

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 12
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

An exaggerated deflected view of the interior beam is shown in Figure 2-10. This beam develops
ASTU,
positive SoCEA,
moments Civil Engineering
at midspan Department
(section A-A) 2022/23
and negative A.Y over the supports (section B-
moments
B). At midspan, the compression zone is in the flange, as shown in Figure 2-10b and Figure 2-
10d. Generally, it is rectangular, as shown Figure 2-10b, although, in very rare cases for typical
reinforced concrete construction, the neutral axis may shift down into the web, giving a T-shaped
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
compression zone, as shown in Figure 2-10d. At the support, the compression zone is at the
bottom of the beam and is rectangular, as shown in Figure 2-10c.

[Link]. Effective flange width

The forces acting on the flange of a simply supported T-beam are illustrated in Figure 2-11. At
the support, there are no longitudinal compressive stresses in the flange, but at midspan, the full
width is stressed in compression. The transition requires horizontal shear stresses on the web-
flange interface as shown in Figure 2-11. As a result there is a “shear-lag” effect, and the
portions of the flange closest to the web are more highly stressed than those portions of the
flange closest to the web are more highly stressed than those portions farther away, as shown in
Figure 2-11 and Figure 2-12.

Figure 2-11 – Actual flow of forces on a T-beam flange

Figure 2-12a shows the distribution of the flexural compressive stresses in a slab that forms the
flanges of a series of parallel beam at a section of maximum positive moment. The compressive
stress is a maximum over each web, dropping between the webs. When analyzing and designing
the section for positive moments, an effective compression flange width is used (Figure 2-12b).
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 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
When this width, be , is stressed uniformly, it will give approximately the same compression
force that actually is developed in the full width of the compression zone.
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

Figure 2-12 – Effective width of T-beams

According to EN 1992-1-1-2004, In T beams the effective flange width, over which uniform
conditions of stress can be assumed, depends on the web and flange dimensions, the type of
loading, the span, the support conditions and the transverse reinforcement.

The effective width of flange should be based on the distance l0 between points of zero moment,
which may be obtained from Figure 2-13.

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 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

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ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

Figure 2-13 – Definition of I0 , for calculation of flange width

Note: The length of the cantilever, l3 , should be less than half the adjacent span and the ration of
adjacent spans should lie between 2/3 and 1.5.

The effective flange width parameters are shown in Figure 2-12 below.

Figure 2-14 – Effective flange width parameters

The effective flange width beff for a T beam or L beam may be derived as:

beff =  beff ,i + bw  b (2-10)

where

beff ,i = 0.2bi + 0.1l0  0.2l0 (2-11)

and

beff ,i  bi (2-12)

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 15
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

[Link]. Procedure of analysis of flanged beam for flexure

a) Flanged beam subjected to negative moment
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
For a flanged beam with a negative moment, the compression zone will be the bottom
rectangular part of the web, thus the procedures for analysis of rectangular sections will be
appropriate.
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
b) Flanged beam subjected to positive moment

If a flanged beam is subjected to positive moment, the neutral axis might remain within the
flange of the beam or it might be in the web of the beam.

For the case where the neutral axis remains in the flange, the section may be treated as a
rectangular section, and the procedures of analysis of rectangular sections can be adopted.
However, if the neutral axis is in the web of the beam, a different approach for analysis is
necessary and in doing so, adopting the rectangular stress relationship for the concrete in
compression will simplify the analysis.

The general procedure for the analysis of flanged beam subjected to positive moment according
to EN 1992-1-1-2004 is as follows.

• Step 1: Assume the neutral axis to be in the flange

• Step 2: Use the procedure of analysis of singly reinforced concrete sections to
estimate neutral axis depth
• Step 3: Check if the assumption is step 1 is correct
• Step 4: If the assumption is correct, estimate the moment resistance of the section
using the procedures of singly reinforced concrete sections. If not correct,
proceed to step 5.
• Step 5: Assume the strain in the tension reinforcement to be greater than the
yieldstrain.
• Step 6: Take the rectangular stress strain relationship for the concrete under
compression
• Step 7: Take the stress strain relationship for the reinforcement bar
• Step 8: Apply condition of equilibrium to the given stress block and conditions
ofcompatibility to the strain profile to estimate the neutral axis depth
• Step 9: Calculate the strain in the reinforcement bar and check if the assumed type
of failure is correct
• Step 10: If the assumption is correct, apply the moment equilibrium to the stress
blockand estimate the moment capacity
• Step 11: If it is not correct, assume another type of failure and repeat steps 6 to step
10 until the assumption is proven to be true

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 16
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

2.6. DESIGN OF BEAMS FOR FLEXURE AT ULS

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
2.6.1. CONCRETE COVER
It is necessary to have cover (concrete between the surface of the slab or beam and the
reinforcing bars) for four primary reasons:
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
1. To bond the reinforcement to the concrete so that the two elements act together. The
efficiency of the bond increases as the cover increases.
2. To protect the reinforcement against corrosion.
3. To protect the reinforcement from strength loss, due to overheating in the case of fire.
4. Additional cover sometimes is provided on the top of slabs, particularly in garages and
factories, so that abrasion and wear due to traffic will not reduce the cover below that
required for structural and other purposes.
The concrete cover is the distance between the surface of the reinforcement closest to the nearest
concrete surface (including links and stirrups and surface reinforcement where relevant) and the
nearest concrete surface.

Concrete cover according to EN 1992-1-1 and EN 1992-1-2

The nominal cover is defined as a minimum cover, cmin , plus an allowance in design for
deviation, cdev :

cnom = cmin + cdev ( 2-13 )

where cmin should be set to satisfy the requirements below:

• Safe transmission of bond forces

• Durability
• Fire resistance

and cdev is an allowance which should be made in the design for deviations from the minimum
cover. It should be taken as 10 mm, unless fabrication (i.e. construction) is subjected to a quality
assurance system, in which case it is permitted to reduce cdev to 5 mm.

cmin = max cmin,b ;cmin,dur ;10 mm

1. Minimum cover for bond, cmin,b

The minimum cover to ensure adequate bond should not be less than the bar diameter, unless 32
mm. if the aggregate size is over 32 mm, cmin,b should be increased by 5 mm.

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 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
2. Minimum cover for durability

EC-2 leaves the choice of Cmin,dur to countries, but gives the following recommendation:
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
The value of Cmin,dur depends on the “structural class”, which has to be determined first. If the
specified service life is 50 years, the structural class is defined as 4. The “structural class” can be
modified in case
ASTU, of the
SoCEA, following
Civil conditions:
Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
− The service life is 100 years instead of 50 years
− The concrete strength is higher than necessary
− Slabs (position of reinforcement not affected by construction process)
− Special quality control measures apply

The finally applying service class can be calculated with Table 4.3 N but the recommended
minimum structural class is 1.

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 18
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

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 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

3. Minimum cover for fire resistance

Rather than giving the minimum cover, the tabular method is based on nominal axis distance, see
fig. this is the distance from the center of the main reinforcing bar to the surface of the member.
The designer should ensure that

a  cnom + link + bar 2 ( 2-14 )

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 20
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

Table 2-1 – Minimum dimensions and axis distances for simply supported beams made with
reinforced and prestressed concrete
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 21
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

Table 2-2 – Minimum dimensions and axis distances for continuous beams made with reinforced
and prestressed concrete
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

2.6.2. SPAN TO DEPTH RATIO (SERVICEABILITY LIMIT STATE)

Generally, it is not necessary to calculate the deflections explicitly as simple rules, for example
limits to span/depth ratio may be formulated, which will be adequate for avoiding deflection
problems in normal circumstances. More rigorous checks are necessary for members which lie
outside such limits, or where deflection limits other than those implicit in simplified methods are
appropriate. See the following equations at fyk of 500Mpa

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 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

Where
ASTU,
l/d is the limitSoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
span/depth
K is the factor to take into account the different structural systems, see table below
0 is the reference reinforcement ratio = fck 10-3
 is the required tension reinforcement ratio at mid-span to resist the moment due to the design loads
(at support for cantilevers)
 ' is the required compression reinforcement ratio at mid-span to resist the moment due to the design loads
(at support for cantilevers)

fck is in MPa units

Equations i and ii are to be modified as follows:

a) the values obtained should be multiplied by 310 / s , which will normally be

conservative to assume that:

310 / s = 500 / (fy k As ,req / As , prov )

Where
 s is the tensile steel stress at mid-span (at support for cantilevers) under the design service load
As,prov is the area of steel provided at this section

As,req is the area of steel required at this section for ultimate limit state

b) For flanged sections where the ratio of the flange breadth to the rib breadth exceeds 3,
the values of l/d given by equation I should be multiplied by 0.8.
c) For beams and slabs, other than flat slabs, with spans exceeding 7m, which support
partitions liable to be damaged by excessive deflections, the values of l/d given by
Equation I should be multiplied by 7/ leff (leff in meters)
d) For flat slabs where the greater span exceeds 8.5 m, and which support partitions liable
to be damaged by excessive deflections, the values of l/d given by Expression (7.16)
should be multiplied by 8.5 / leff (leff in meters).

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 23
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
Concrete highly Concrete lightly
Structural System K
stressed ρ=1.5% stressed ρ=0.5%
Simply supported beam, one- or 1.0 14 20
ASTU,
two-way SoCEA,
spanning Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
simply
supported slab
End span of continuous beam or 1.3 18 26
one-way continuous slab or two-
way spanning slab continuous over
oneASTU,
long side
SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
Interior span of beam or one-way 1.5 20 30
or two-way spanning slab
Slab supported on columns without 1.2 17 24
beams (flat slab) (based on longer
span)
Cantilever 0.4 6 8
Note 1: The values given have been chosen to be generally conservative and calculation may
frequently show that thinner members are possible.
Note 2: For 2-way spanning slabs, the check should be carried out on the basis of the shorter span.
For flat slabs the longer span should be taken.
Note 3: The limits given for flat slabs correspond to a less severe limitation than a mid-span
deflection of span/250 relative to the columns. Experience has shown this to be satisfactory.

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 24
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

2.6.3. MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM AREA OF REINFORCEMENT

Minimum
ASTU,and Maximum
SoCEA, area of reinforcement
Civil Engineering Department according to EN 1992-1-1-2004
2022/23 A.Y
The area of longitudinal tension reinforcement should not be taken as less than As,min

fctm ( 2-15 )
s,min = 0.26
AASTU, SoCEA, bCivil
d Engineering than 0.0013bd
but not less Department 2022/23 A.Y
fyk t t

Where:

bt denotes the mean width of the tension zone; for a T-beam with the flange in
compression, only the width of the web is taken into account in calculating the
value of bt .
fctm should be determined with respect to the relevant strength class according
to Table 3.1. of Eurocode
The cross-sectional area of tension or compression reinforcement should not exceed As, max
outside lap locations.

The value of As, max for beams for use in a country may be found in its National Annex. The
recommended value is 0.04Ac.

Deflections are limited for the following reasons:

i. Excessive deflections are unsightly and alarming. EC2 restricts total deflection to
span/250.
ii. To avoid damage to cladding, partitions and finishes due to increments in deflection
following their construction. EC2 limits deflections after construction of finishes to
span/500.
iii. Both construction tolerances and deflections need to be considered in the design of
fixings for cladding systems and partitions. In practice it can be difficult to separate
construction tolerances from deflections.

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 25
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

2.6.4. DESIGN OF SINGLY REINFORCED BEAM SECTIONS

[Link]. Limit to the

ASTU, use ofCivil
SoCEA, singly reinforcedDepartment
Engineering sections 2022/23 A.Y
At the ultimate limit state, it is important that member sections in flexure should be ductile and
that failure should occur with the gradual yielding of the tension steel and not by a sudden
catastrophic compression failure of the concrete. Also, yielding of the reinforcement enables the
ASTU,
formation SoCEA,hinges
of plastic Civil so
Engineering Department
that redistribution 2022/23 moments
of maximum A.Y can occur, resulting in a
safer and more economical structure.

To ensure rotation of the plastic hinges with sufficient yielding of the tension steel and also to
allow for other factors such as the strain hardening of the steel, Clause 5.5 in EN 1992-1-1 give
limits to the neutral axis depth at the ultimate limit state as a function of the amount of
redistribution carried out in the analysis.

x d ( − 0.4) (0.6 + 0.0014 cu ) ( 2-16)

In applying this formula, some degree of interpretation of the code is necessary since the reader
is referred to Table 3.1 of EN 1992-1-1 for values of the ultimate strain. Table 3.1 gives several
values, and it has been assumed that the ultimate strain is cu1 in this table. x/d should not be
greater than 0.45 for concrete grades C50 or below, and not greater than 0.35 for grades C55 or
higher.

 in equation ( 2-16) is the ratio of the redistributed moment to the moment before
redistribution.  is limited as a function of the type of reinforcement used as follows: for Class
B and Class C steel,   0.70 and for Class A steel,   0.8 .

[Link]. Design procedure

The general procedure for the design of singly reinforced beams according to EN 1992-1-1 is as
follows.

• Step 1: Draw a the strain profile that results a ductile failure by setting the ultimate
strain in the concrete

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 26
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

• Step 2: Take any of the three possible stress strain relationships for concrete described
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering
in chapter Department
1 to define the stress block2022/23 A.Y

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

a. Using parabola-rectangle diagram

b. Using Bi-linear diagram

c. Using rectangular diagram

• Step 3: Apply force equilibrium and moment equilibrium to get the neutral axis depth

• Step 4: If the assumption is correct, estimate the moment resistance of the section
using the procedures of singly reinforced concrete sections. If not correct,

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 27
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

proceed to step 5.

• Step 5: Check if the ratio of neutral axis depth to the effective depth is below the limit
to the use of singly reinforced sections

• Step 6: If it is below the limit, calculate the area of reinforcement

• Step 7: If x/d exceeds the limit go to section and design the beam as double reinforced

• Step 8: Check the minimum and maximum area of reinforcement

2.6.5. DESIGN OF DOUBLY REINFORCED SECTIONS

The general procedure for the design of doubly reinforced beams according to EN 1992-1-1 is as
follows.

• Step 1: Draw the strain profile that results a ductile failure by setting the ultimate strain
in the concrete

• Step 2: Take any of the three possible stress strain relationships for concrete described
in chapter 1 to define the stress block

• Step 3: Apply force and moment equilibrium to get the neutral axis depth and the area
of reinforcement

• Step 4: Check the minimum and maximum area of reinforcement

2.6.6. DESIGN OF FLANGED BEAMS

a) Flanged beam subjected to negative moment

For a flanged beam with a negative moment, the compression zone will be the bottom
rectangular part of the web, thus following the procedures for design of rectangular sections will
be appropriate.

b) Flanged beam subjected to positive moment

If a flanged beam is subjected to positive moment, the neutral axis might remain within the
flange of the beam or it might be in the web of the beam.

For the case where the neutral axis remains in the flange, the section may be treated as a
rectangular section with width b as the width of the flange, and the procedures of analysis of
rectangular sections can be adopted. However, if the neutral axis is in the web of the beam, a
different approach for design is necessary and in doing so, adopting the rectangular stress
relationship for the concrete in compression will simplify the procedure.

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 28
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

The general procedure for the design of flanged beam subjected to positive moment according to
EN 1992-1-1 is as follows.

• Step 1: Assume the neutral axis to be in the flange of the section

• Step 2: Draw the strain profile that results a ductile failure by setting the ultimate
strain in the concrete

• Step 3: Take the simplified rectangular stress block for concrete

• Step 4: Apply force equilibrium and moment equilibrium to get the neutral axis depth

• Step 5: Check if the assumption in step 1 is correct

• Step 6: If the assumption is correct, calculate the necessary area of reinforcement, if

not, proceed to step 7

• Step 7: Take the neutral axis to be in the web

• Step 8: Use force and moment equilibrium to get the necessary area of reinforcement

• Step 9: Check the minimum and maximum area of reinforcement

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 29
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I

2.6.4 Limit State Design of RC Beam under for Shear

[Link]. Introduction
❖ Beams resist loads by means of internal moment M and shear force V.
❖ Longitudinal reinforcements are provided based on bending moment & shear reinforcements are
provided based on shear force.
❖ Shear force is significantly present in beams where there is a change in bending moment along the
span.
❖ Shear force is equal to the rate of change of bending moment. i.e. V = dM/dx
❖ Shear force in beam generally develop in combination with bending moment.
[Link] Behavior of Reinforced-concrete Beam without Shear Reinforcements
In reinforced-concrete beam elements, shear force and moment may develop in combination. The
combined action of shear force and moment gives rises to principal tensile and compressive stresses on
principal planes of the elements of beam. When the principal tensile stress exceeds tensile strength of
concrete, formation of cracks takes place along the principal planes which are perpendicular to principal
tension stress trajectories.

In the vicinity of maximum span moment of simple and continuous beams, where shear force is small and
moment is large, the direction of the principal tensile stress is nearly horizontal and is nearly equal to the
flexural tensile stress. For such a section of the beam subjected to moment only, the state of stresses for an
element of beam near to extreme tension fiber is as shown below. When the principal tensile stress in such
case exceeds the tensile strength of concrete, flexure tension cracks develop along vertical principal plane.
Vertical flexure tension crack can be controlled by the provision of longitudinal tension reinforcement.
Principal plane

fb fb fb t p = fb

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 30
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
Near to the support of simple beams, where the shear force is large and moment is small, the principal
tensile stress is nearly equal to the shear stress and is inclined at approximately 45˚ to the axis of the
beam. It is referred to as the diagonal tension and is responsible for the development of inclined cracks. At
the level of the neutral axis, longitudinal flexural stress is absent and shear stresses give rise to a diagonal
tension which causes inclined cracks. For such a section of the beam subjected to maximum shear force
and small moment, the state of stresses for an element of beam at the level of the neutral axis is as shown
below. When the principal tensile stress in such case exceeds the tensile strength of concrete, diagonal
tension cracks develop along principal plane inclined at angle approximately 45˚ to the axis of the beam.
But for a section of continuous beam subjected to both shear force and moment significantly, diagonal
tension cracks develop as an extension of vertical flexure crack and it is known as flexure-shear crack.
Diagonal tension crack can be controlled by the provision of shear reinforcement.
v v Principal plane
cp = − v
v v v
450
v tp = v
tp = v
450

The different types of crack regions such as region of flexural cracks, diagonal tension cracks and flexure-
shear cracks can be shown as below, for a simply supported beam.

II III I III II

I – Region of flexural cracks

II – Region of diagonal tension crack
III – Region of flexure-shear crack

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 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
[Link] Shear Strengths of RC beams
The transfer of shear in reinforced concrete members occurs by the combination of the following
mechanisms.
1) Shear resistance of the un-cracked concrete in compression
2) Aggregate interlock force: - that develop tangentially along the expected crack propagation, and
similar to a frictional force due to irregular interlocking of aggregates along the rough concrete
surface on each side of the crack.
3) Dowel action of the longitudinal reinforcement: - the resistance of the longitudinal reinforcement
to transverse force.
4) Shear reinforcement resistance from vertical or inclined stirrups (not available in beams without
shear reinforcement)
If the RC beam is without shear reinforcement, the shear resistance along the expected cracking (ie along
ABC as shown in the figure below) =
Sum of shear in compression zone (Vcz) + Vertical component of aggregate interlock force (Vay) + Force
due to dowel action of the longitudinal reinforcement (Vd)
i.e., V = Vcz + Vay + Vd A
Shear force Vcz
Longitudinal
Reinforcement B
Aggregate interlock
force Va

C
Dowel force Vd

Immediately after inclined cracking, it is found that 40 % to 60 % of the shear is resisted by Vay and Vd.
As the crack widens Vay decreases and much of the resistance is provided by Vcz and Vd. As Vd gets
larger it leads to splitting crack in the concrete along the reinforcement. When this crack occurs Vd drops
to zero.
When Vay and Vd disappear, all shearing forces are to be resisted by the portion AB above the crack.
This may cause crushing of concrete in region AB.
For beams with shear reinforcements, Total shear V to be resisted is
V = Vcz + Vay + Vd + Vs
Where, Vs = Shear to be resisted by the stirrups.
Here, (Vcz + Vay + Vd) = Vc = Shear resisted by concrete
Therefore, total shear to be resisted is V = Vc + Vs

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 32
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[Link] Types of shear reinforcements
Common types of shear reinforcement are:
1) Vertical stirrups
2) Inclined stirrups at angle 450 or more from longitudinal axis of beam
3) Bent-up bars of longitudinal reinforcement bent at angle of 450 or more from longitudinal axis of
beam
4) Combination of 1 or 2 with 3

Vertical Stirrups

Inclined Stirrups

Crack propagation

Bent up bars

Crack propagation

Crack propagation

Vertical Stirrups: Most commonly used

Inclined stirrups: Cannot be used where beams resist shear reversal such as buildings resisting seismic
loads.
Bent up bars: Almost disappeared. Possess same disadvantage like inclined stirrups and additional
disadvantage is the difficulty in bar bending.

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 33
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[Link] Design of Beams for Vertical Shear According to EN 1992-1-1-2004

For the verification of the shear resistance the following symbols are defined:

VRd,c is the design shear resistance of the member without shear reinforcement
VRd,s is the design value of the shear force which can be sustained by the yielding shear
reinforcement
VRd,max is the design value of the maximum shear force which can be sustained by the
member, limited by crushing of the compression struts.
The shear resistance of a member with shear reinforcement is equal to:

VRd = VRd,s
In regions of the member where VEd  VRd,c , no calculated shear reinforcement is necessary. VEd
is the design shear force in the section considered resulting from the external loading.
In regions where VEd  VRd,c , sufficient shear reinforcement should be provided in order that
VEd  VRd

The design shear force should not exceed the permitted maximum value VRd,max , anywhere in the
member.

For members subject to predominantly uniformly distributed loading the design shear force need not be
checked at a distance less that d from the face of the support. Any shear reinforcement required should
continue to the support. In addition it should be verified that the shear at the support does not exceed
VRd,max

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[Link] Members Not Requiring Design Shear Reinforcement

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 35
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
[Link] Members Requiring Design Shear Reinforcement
For members with vertical shear reinforcement, the shear resistance, VRd is the smaller value of:
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

For reinforced and prestressed members, if the design stress of the shear reinforcement is below 80% of
the characteristic yield stress fyk , may be taken as:

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 36
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
[Link] Additional Tensile Force in Longitudinal Reinforcement
The longitudinal tension reinforcement should be able to resist the additional tensile force caused
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
by shear. The additional tensile force Ftd , in the longitudinal reinforcement due to shear
Ved may be calculated from:

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

[Link] Minimum Area and Maximum Spacing of Shear Reinforcement

The ratio of shear reinforcement is given by w = Asw / (s  bw  sin )

Where,

w is the shear reinforcement ratio

w should not be less than w,min
Asw is the area of shear reinforcement within length s
s is the spacing of the shear reinforcement measured along the longitudinal axis of
the member
bw is the breadth of the web of the member
 Is the angle between shear reinforcement and the longitudinal axis

When, on the basis of the design shear calculation, no shear reinforcement is required, minimum shear
reinforcement should nevertheless be provided. The minimum shear reinforcement may be omitted in
members such as slabs (solid, ribbed or hollow core slabs) where transverse redistribution of loads is
possible. Minimum reinforcement may also be omitted in members of minor importance which do not
contribute significantly to the overall resistance and stability of the structure.

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[Link] General Beam Design Procedure for Shear

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 38
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
2.6.5 Provisions of EN -1992-1-1-2004 on Development, Anchorage and Splicing of
Reinforcement
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
. Anchorage of longitudinal reinforcement
Ultimate bond stress
The ultimate bond resistance shall be sufficient to prevent bond failure and the design value of the ultimate bond
stress, fbd , ASTU, SoCEA,
for ribbed Civil
bars may beEngineering
taken as: Department 2022/23 A.Y
fbd = 2.2512fctd
Where:
fctd is the design value of concrete tensile strength
1 is a coefficient related to the quality of the bond condition and the position of the bar
during concreting
1 = 1.0 when ‘good’ conditions are obtained and
1 = 0.7 for all other cases and for bars in structural elements built with slip-forms,
unless it can be shown that ‘good’ bond conditions exist
2 is related to the bar diameter:
2 = 1.0 for   32mm
2 = (132 −  ) / 100 for   32 mm

Figure a – Description of bond conditions

Basic anchorage length

The calculation of the required anchorage length shall take into consideration the type of steel and bond properties
of the bars.
The basic required anchorage length, l b,req , for anchoring the force As fyd in a bar assuming constant bond stress
equal to fbd follows from:
l b,rqd = ( 4 )( sd fbd )
where  sd is the design stress of the bar at the position from where the anchorage is measured from at the ultimate
limit state.

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 39
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
Design anchorage length
The design anchorage length, l bd , :
l bd = 1 2ASTU,
 3 4 5SoCEA,
l b,rqd  l bCivil
,min Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
Where α1, α2, α3, α4 and α5 are coefficients given in Table 1:
1 is for the effect of the form of the bars assuming adequate cover
2 is for the effect of concrete minimum cover (see Figure )
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
3 is for the effect of confinement by transverse reinforcement
4 is for the influence of one or more welded transverse bars (t  0.6 ) along the design
anchorage length l bd
5 is for the effect of the pressure transverse to the plane of splitting along the design
anchorage length
The product ( 2 3 5 )  0.7
l b,min is the minimum anchorage length if no other limitation is applied:
- For anchorages in tension: l b,min  max 0.3l b,rqd ;10;100 mm
- For anchorages in compression: l b,min  max 0.6l b,rqd ;10;100 mm

Figure b – Values of Cd for beams and slabs

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 40
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
Table 1 – Values of α coefficients

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

Figure c – Values of K for beams and slabs

Laps
The detailing of laps between bars shall be such that:
− The transmission of the forces from one bar to the next is assured
− Spalling of the concrete in the neighborhood of the joints does not occur;
− Large cracks which affect the performance of the structure do not occur

Laps:
− Between bars should normally be staggered and not located in areas of high stress.
− At any one section should normally be arranged symmetrically

The arrangement of lapped bars should comply with Figure

− The clear transverse distance between two lapped bars should not be greater than 4 or 50 mm, otherwise
the lap length should be increased by a length equal to the clear space where it exceeds 4 or 50 mm;

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 41
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
− The longitudinal distance between two adjacent laps should not be less than 0.3 times the lap length, l 0 ;
− In case of adjacent laps, the clear distance between adjacent bars should not be less than 2 or 20 mm.
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y

Figure d – Adjacent laps

Lap length
The design lap length is:
l 0 = 1 2 3 5 6 l b,rqd  l 0,min
Where:
l 0,min  max 0.3 6 l b,rqd ;15;200 mm
Values of 1,2 ,3 , and 5 , may be taken from Table 1; however, for the calculation of  3 ,  Ast ,min should be

( )
taken as 1.0 As  sd fyd , with As = area of one lapped bar.

 6 = ( 1 25 ) but not exceeding 1.5, where 1 is the percentage of reinforcement lapped within 0.65l 0 from
0.5

the center of the lap length considered (see Figure ). Values of  6 are given in the table below.
Table 2 – Values of the coefficient  6

Figure e – Percentage of lapped bars in one section

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 42
 ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y Reinforced Concrete I
Transverse reinforcement in the lap zone
a) Transverse reinforcement for bars in tension

TransverseASTU, SoCEA, Civil

reinforcement Engineering
is required Department
in the 2022/23
lap zone to resist A.Y
transverse tension forces. Where the
diameter,  , of the lapped bars is less than 20 mm, or the percentage of lapped bars in any one section is
less than 25%, then any transverse reinforcement or links necessary for other reasons may be assumed
ASTU, SoCEA, Civil Engineering Department 2022/23 A.Y
sufficient for the transverse tensile forces without further justification.
Where the diameter,  , of the lapped bars is greater than or equal to 20 mm, the transverse reinforcement
should have a total area, Ast (sum of all legs parallel to the layer of the spliced reinforcement) of not less

than the area As of one lapped bar ( A

st  1.0 As ) , assuming that the lapped bar is fully stressed. The

transverse bar should be placed perpendicular to the direction of the lapped reinforcement and between
that and the surface of the concrete.
If more than 50% of the reinforcement is lapped at one point and the distance, a, between adjacent laps at
a section is  10 (see Figure ) transverse bars should be formed by links or U bars anchored into the
body of the section.
The transverse reinforcement should be positioned at the outer sections of the lap as shown in Figure .
b) Transverse reinforcement for bars permanently in compression

In addition to the rules for bars in tension one bar of the transverse reinforcement should be placed outside
each end of the lap length and within 4 of the ends of the lap length (Figure )

Figure f – Transverse reinforcement for lapped splices

Chapter 2: Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams_ Lecture Note: By Chimdi G(MSc) Page 43