Two-Way Flat Slab (Concrete Floor with Drop Panels) System Analysis and Design (CSA A23.

3-14)
Two-Way Flat Slab (Concrete Floor with Drop Panels) System Analysis and Design (CSA A23.3-14)

Design the concrete floor slab system shown below for an intermediate floor considering partition weight = 1 kN/m2,
and unfactored live load = 3 kN/m2. The lateral loads are independently resisted by shear walls. The use of flat plate
system will be checked. If the use of flat plate is not adequate, the use of flat slab system with drop panels will be
investigated. Flat slab concrete floor system is similar to the flat plate system. The only exception is that the flat slab
uses drop panels (thickened portions around the columns) to increase the nominal shear strength of the concrete at the
critical section around the columns. The Elastic Frame Method (EFM) shown in CSA A23.3-14 is used in this example.
The hand solution from EFM is also used for a detailed comparison with the model results of spSlab engineering
software program.

Figure 1 - Two-Way Flat Concrete Floor System

Version: Oct-05-2018
Contents
1. Preliminary member sizing ......................................................................................................................................1
2. Flexural Analysis and Design................................................................................................................................. 12
2.1. Elastic Frame Method (EFM) ......................................................................................................................... 12
2.1.1. Limitations for use of elastic frame method ......................................................................................... 13
2.1.2. Frame members of elastic frame .......................................................................................................... 13
2.1.3. Elastic frame analysis ........................................................................................................................... 17
2.1.4. Factored moments used for Design ...................................................................................................... 18
2.1.5. Distribution of design moments ........................................................................................................... 20
2.1.6. Flexural reinforcement requirements.................................................................................................... 20
2.1.7. Factored moments in columns .............................................................................................................. 24
3. Design of Columns by spColumn .......................................................................................................................... 26
3.1. Determination of factored loads ...................................................................................................................... 26
3.2. Moment Interaction Diagram .......................................................................................................................... 28
4. Shear Strength ........................................................................................................................................................ 31
4.1. One-Way (Beam action) Shear Strength ......................................................................................................... 31
4.1.1. At distance dv from the supporting column .......................................................................................... 31
4.1.2. At the face of the drop panel ................................................................................................................ 32
4.2. Two-Way (Punching) Shear Strength ............................................................................................................. 33
4.2.1. Around the columns faces .................................................................................................................... 33
4.2.2. Around drop panels 37
5. Serviceability Requirements (Deflection Check) ................................................................................................... 39
5.1. Immediate (Instantaneous) Deflections ........................................................................................................... 39
5.2. Time-Dependent (Long-Term) Deflections (Δlt) ............................................................................................. 50
6. spSlab Software Program Model Solution ............................................................................................................. 51
7. Summary and Comparison of Design Results ........................................................................................................ 72
8. Conclusions & Observations .................................................................................................................................. 75
8.1. One-Way Shear Distribution to Slab Strips .................................................................................................... 75
8.2. Two-Way Concrete Slab Analysis Methods ................................................................................................... 78

Version: Oct-05-2018
Code
Design of Concrete Structures (CSA A23.3-14) and Explanatory Notes on CSA Group standard A23.3-14
“Design of Concrete Structures”

Reference
CAC Concrete Design Handbook, 4th Edition, Cement Association of Canada

Design Data
Story Height = 4 m (provided by architectural drawings)
Superimposed Dead Load, SDL =1 kN/m2
Live Load, LL = 3 kN/m2
fc’ = 35 MPa (for slab)
fc’ = 42 MPa (for columns)
fy = 400 MPa

Solution

1. Preliminary member sizing

For slabs without Drop Panels

a. Slab minimum thickness – Deflection CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.3)

In lieu of detailed calculation for deflections, CSA A23.3 Code gives minimum slab thickness for two-way
construction without interior beams in Clause 13.2.3.

For this flat plate slab systems the minimum slab thicknesses per CSA A23.3-14 are:

ln  0.6  f y /1, 000 

Exterior Panels: hs ,min  1.1  311.7 mm CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.3)
30

But not less than 120 mm. CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.1)

ln  0.6  f y /1, 000 

Exterior Panels: hs ,min   283.3 mm CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.3)
30

But not less than 120 mm. CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.1)

Where ln = length of clear span in the long direction = 9,000 – 500 = 8,500 mm

Try 300 mm. slab for all panels (self-weight = 24 kN/m3 × 0.3 m = 7.2 kN/m2)

b. Slab shear strength – one way shear

At a preliminary check level, the use of average effective depth would be sufficient. However, after
determining the final depth of the slab, the exact effective depth will be used in flexural, shear and deflection
calculations. Evaluate the average effective depth (Figure 2):

1
 db 16
dl  hs  cclear  db   300  20  16   256 mm
2 2
db 16
dt  hs  cclear   300  20   272 mm
2 2
dl  dt 256  272
d avg    264 mm
2 2
Where:

cclear = 20 mm CSA A23.3-14 (Annex A. Table 17)

db = 16 mm for 15M steel bar

Figure 2 - Two-Way Flat Concrete Floor System

Factored dead load, wdf  1.25  (7.2  1)  10.25 kN/m2 CSA A23.3-14 (Annex C. Table C.1 a)

Factored live load, wlf  1.5  3  4.5 kN/m2

Total factored load, wf  14.75 kN/m2

Check the adequacy of slab thickness for beam action (one-way shear) CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.6)

At an interior column:
The critical section for one-way shear is extending in a plane across the entire width and located at a
distance, dv from the face of support or concentrated load (see Figure 3). CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.6.1)
Consider a 1 m wide strip
  9, 000   500   
     264   1, 000  
 2   2 
Tributary are for one-way shear is ATributary     3.986 m 2
 1, 000 2

 
 
V f  wf  ATributary  14.75  3.986  58.79 kN

Vc  c  f 'c bw dv CSA A23.3-14 (Eq.11.6)

2
 Where:
  1 For normal weight concrete CSA A23.3-14 (8.6.5)
  0.21 For slabs with overall thickness not greater than 350 mm CSA A23.3-14 (11.3.6.2)

dv  Max (0.9d , 0.75h) = 237.6 mm CSA A23.3-14 (3.2)

f 'c  5.29 MPa  8 MPa CSA A23.3-14 (11.3.4)

237.6
Vc  0.65 1 0.21 35 1,000   191.87 kN  Vf
1,000
Slab thickness of 300 mm is adequate for one-way shear.

c. Slab shear strength – two-way shear

Check the adequacy of slab thickness for punching shear (two-way shear) at an interior column (Figure 4):
2
 400  264 
Tributary area for two-way shear is ATributary  (9  9)     80.42 m
2

 1, 000 
Vf  wf  ATributary  80.42 14.75  1,186.1 kN

Vf 1,186.1
vf    1.47 MPa
bo d 3, 056  264

vr  vc  0.38c f 'c CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.4.1)

vc  0.38 1 0.65  35  1.46 MPa > v f

Slab thickness of 300 mm is not adequate for two-way shear. It is good to mention that the factored shear
(Vf) used in the preliminary check does not include the effect of the unbalanced moment at supports.
Including this effect will lead to an increase of Vf value as shown later in section 4.2.

3
Figure 3 – Critical Section for One-Way Shear Figure 4 – Critical Section for Two-Way Shear

In this case, four options could be used: 1) to increase the slab thickness, 2) to increase columns cross sectional
dimensions or cut the spacing between columns (reducing span lengths), however, this option is assumed to be not
permissible in this example due to architectural limitations, 3) to use headed shear reinforcement, or 4) to use drop
panels. In this example, the latter option will be used to achieve better understanding for the design of two-way
slab with drop panels often called flat slab.

4
Check the drop panel dimensional limitations as follows:

1) The additional thickness of the drop panel below the soffit of the slab (Δh) shall not be taken larger than hs.
CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.4)
Since the slab thickness (hs) is 260 mm (see page 7), the thickness of the drop panel should be at less than
260 mm.
Drop panel dimensions are also controlled by formwork considerations. The following Figure shows the
standard lumber dimensions that are used when forming drop panels. Using other depths will unnecessarily
increase formwork costs. The Δh dimension will be taken as the lumber dimension plus the thickness of one
sheet of plywood (19 mm).
For nominal lumber size:
hdp = 38+19 = 57 mm or hdp = 89+19 = 108 mm

Try hdp = 108 mm < 260 mm

The total thickness including the slab and the drop panel (h) = hs + hdp = 260 + 108 = 368 mm

Nominal Lumber Size, mm Actual Lumber Size, mm Plyform Thickness, mm hdp, mm

2x 38 19 57
4x 89 19 108

Figure 5 – Drop Panel Formwork Details

5
Figure 6 – Drop Panels Dimensions

6
For Flat Slab (with Drop Panels)
For slabs with changes in thickness and subjected to bending in two directions, it is necessary to check shear at
multiple sections as defined in the CSA A23.3-14. The critical sections for two-way action shall be located with
respect to:
1) Perimeter of the concentrated load or reaction area. CSA A.23.3-14 (13.3.3.1)
2) Changes in slab thickness, such as edges of drop panels. CSA A.23.3-14 (13.3.3.2)

a. Slab minimum thickness – Deflection

In lieu of detailed calculation for deflections, CSA A23.3 Code gives minimum slab thickness for two-way
construction with drop panel in Clause 13.2.4.
For this flat plate slab systems the minimum slab thicknesses per CSA A23.3-14 are:
The value of 2xd/ln is not known at this point. The upper limit is 1/4. A reasonable preliminary estimate is
1/6.

 ln  0.6  f y /1, 000  2 x 

Exterior Panels: hs ,min  1.1   d   272.1 mm CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.4)
 30 ln 
 
But not less than 120 mm. CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.1)

ln  0.6  f y /1, 000  2 xd

Interior Panels: hs ,min    247.3 mm CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.4)
30 ln

But not less than 120 mm. CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.1)

Where
ln = length of clear span in the long direction = 9,000 – 500 = 8,500 mm
Try 260 mm slab for all panels
Self-weight for slab section without drop panel = 24 kN/m3 × 0.26 m = 6.24 kN/m2
Self-weight for slab section with drop panel = 24 kN/m3 × 0.368 m = 8.83 kN/m2

b. Slab shear strength – one way shear

For critical section at distance d from the edge of the column (slab section with drop panel):
Evaluate the average effective depth:
db 16
dl  hs  cclear  db   368  20  16   324 mm
2 2
db 16
dt  hs  cclear   368  20   340 mm
2 2
dl  dt 324  340
d avg    332 mm
2 2

7
Where:

cclear = 20 mm CSA A23.3-14 (Annex A. Table 17)

db = 16 mm for 15M steel bar

Factored dead load  wdf  1.25  (8.83  1)  12.29 kN/m2 CSA A23.3-14 (Annex C. Table C.1 a)

Factored live load  wlf  1.5  3  4.5 kN/m2

Total factored load  wf  12.29  4.5  16.79 kN/m2

Check the adequacy of slab thickness for beam action (one-way shear) from the edge of the interior column
CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.6)
Consider a 1 m wide strip. The critical section for one-way shear is located at a distance dv, from the edge
of the column (see Figure 7)
  9, 000   500   
     299   1, 000  
   
 
2 2   3.95 m 2
Tributary area for one-way shear is ATributary
 1, 0002 
 
 

V f  wf  ATributary  16.79  3.95  66.34 kN

Vc  c  f 'c bw dv CSA A23.3-14 (Eq. 11.6)

Where   1 for normal weight concrete

This slab contains no transverse reinforcement and it is assumed the specified nominal maximum size of
coarse aggregate is not less than 20 mm, β shall be taken as: CSA A23.3-14 (11.3.6.3)
230 230
   0.173
(1, 000  dv ) (1, 000  331.2)

dv  Max (0.9d , 0.75h) = 299 mm CSA A23.3-14 (3.2)

299
Vc  0.65 1 0.17  35 1,000   198.52 kN  Vu
1,000

Slab thickness of 368 mm is adequate for one-way shear for the first critical section (from the edge of the
column).

For critical section at the edge of the drop panel (slab section without drop panel):
Evaluate the average effective depth:
db 16
dl  hs  cclear  db   260  20  16   216 mm
2 2

8
 db 16
dt  hs  cclear   260  20   232 mm
2 2
dl  dt 216  232
d avg    224 mm
2 2
Where:

cclear = 20 mm CSA A23.3-14 (Annex A. Table 17)

db = 16 mm for 15M steel bar

Factored dead load  wdf  1.25  (6.24  1)  9.05 kN/m2 CSA A23.3-14 (Annex C. Table C.1 a)

Factored live load  wlf  1.5  3  4.5 kN/m2

Total factored load  wf  9.05  4.5  13.55 kN/m2

Check the adequacy of slab thickness for beam action (one-way shear) from the edge of the interior drop
panel. CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.6)
Consider a 1 m wide strip. The critical section for one-way shear is located at a distance, dv from the face of
support (see Figure 7)
  9, 000   3, 000   
     202   1, 000  
 2   2 
Tributary area for one-way shear is ATributary     2.80 m 2
 1, 0002 
 
 
V f  wf  ATributary  13.55  2.8  37.92 kN

Vc  c  f 'c bw dv CSA A23.3-14 (Eq. 11.6)

Where   1 for normal weight concrete

  0.21 for slabs with overall thickness not greater than 350 mm CSA A23.3-14 (11.3.6.2)

dv  Max (0.9d , 0.75h) = 202 mm CSA A23.3-14 (3.2)

f 'c  5.29 MPa  8 MPa CSA A23.3-14 (11.3.4)

202
Vc  0.65 1 0.21 35 1,000   180.9 kN  Vf
1,000

Slab thickness of 260 mm is adequate for one-way shear for the second critical section (from the edge of
the drop panel).

9
Critical Section from the Edge of the Column Critical Section from the Edge of the Drop Panel
Figure 7 – Critical Sections for One-Way Shear

c. Slab shear strength – two-way shear

For critical section at distance d/2 from the edge of the column (slab section with drop panel):

Check the adequacy of slab thickness for punching shear (two-way shear) at an interior column (Figure 8):

Tributary area for two-way shear is ATributary  (9  9)  0.5  0.224  80.31 m2

2

Vf  wf  ATributary  16.79  80.31  1,348.37 kN

Vf 1,348.4
vf    1.22 MPa
bo d 3,328  332

vr  vc  0.38c f 'c CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.4.1)

vc  0.38 1 0.65  35  1.46 MPa > v f

Tributary area for two-way shear is ATributary  (9  9)  3  0.224  70.61 m2

2

Vf  wf  ATributary  13.55  70.61  956.7 kN

Vf 956.7
vf    0.33 MPa
bo d 12,896  224

vr  vc  0.38c f 'c CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.4.1)

vc  0.38 1 0.65  35  1.46 MPa > v f

10
 Slab thickness of 260 mm is adequate for two-way shear for the first critical section (from the edge of the
column).

For critical section at the edge of the drop panel (slab section without drop panel):

Check the adequacy of slab thickness for punching shear (two-way shear) at an interior drop panel (Figure
8):

Tributary area for two-way shear is ATributary  (9  9)  3  0.224  70.61 m2

2

Vf  wf  ATributary  13.55  70.61  956.7 kN

Vf 956.7
vf    0.33 MPa
bo d 12,896  224

vr  vc  0.38c f 'c CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.4.1)

vc  0.38 1 0.65  35  1.46 MPa > v f

Slab thickness of 260 mm is adequate for two-way shear for the second critical section (from the edge of
the drop panel).

Critical Section from the Edge of the Column Critical Section from the Edge of the Drop Panel
Figure 8 – Critical Sections for Two-Way Shear

11
 d. Column dimensions - axial load

Check the adequacy of column dimensions for axial load:

Tributary area for interior column for live load, superimposed dead load, and self-weight of the slab is
ATributary  9  9  81 m2

Tributary area for interior column for self-weight of additional slab thickness due to the presence of the
drop panel is
ATributary  3  3  9 m2

Assuming five story building

Pf  n  wf  ATributary  5  13.55  81  3.24  9  5,633.5 kN

Assume 500 mm square column with 12 – 30M vertical bars with design axial strength, Pr,max of
Pr ,max  (0.2  0.002h) Pro  0.80Pro (For tied column along full length) CSA A23.3-14 (Eq. 10.9)

Pro  1 c f 'c ( Ag  Ast  At  Ap )  s f y Ast   Fy At  f pr Ap CSA A23.3-14 (Eq. 10.11)

Pro  0.8  0.65  35  (500  500  8  700)  0.85  400  (12  700)  0  7,239.4 kN

Pr ,max  (0.2  0.002  500)  7, 239.4  0.80  7, 239.4

Pr ,max  5,791.5 kN  Pf

Where:
1  0.85  0.0015 f 'c  0.85  0.0015  35  0.8  0.67 CSA A23.3-14 (Eq. 10.1)

Column dimensions of 500 mm × 500 mm are adequate for axial load.

2. Flexural Analysis and Design

CSA A23.3 states that a slab system shall be designed by any procedure satisfying equilibrium and geometric
compatibility, provided that strength and serviceability criteria are satisfied. Distinction of two-systems from one-
way systems is given by CSA A23.3-14 (3.2.2)

CSA A23.3-14 permits the use of Direct Design Method (DDM) and Elastic Frame Method (EFM) for the gravity
load analysis of orthogonal frames and is applicable to flat plates, flat slabs, and slabs with beams. The following
sections outline the solution per EFM and spSlab software. For the solution per DDM, check the flat plate
example.

2.1. Elastic Frame Method (EFM)

EFM (as known as Equivalent Frame Method in the ACI 318) is the most comprehensive and detailed procedure
provided by the CSA A23.3 for the analysis and design of two-way slab systems where these systems may, for
purposes of analysis, be considered a series of plane frames acting longitudinally and transversely through the

12
 building. Each frame shall be composed of equivalent line members intersecting at member centerlines, shall
follow a column line, and shall include the portion of slab bounded laterally by the centerline of the panel on
each side. CSA A23.3-14 (13.8.1.1)

Probably the most frequently used method to determine design moments in regular two-way slab systems is to
consider the slab as a series of two-dimensional frames that are analyzed elastically. When using this analogy,
it is essential that stiffness properties of the elements of the frame be selected to properly represent the behavior
of the three-dimensional slab system.
2.1.1. Limitations for use of elastic frame method

In EFM, live load shall be arranged in accordance with 13.8.4 which requires slab systems to be analyzed
and designed for the most demanding set of forces established by investigating the effects of live load placed
in various critical patterns. CSA A23.3-14 (13.8.4)
Complete analysis must include representative interior and exterior equivalent elastic frames in both the
longitudinal and transverse directions of the floor. CSA A23.3-14 (13.8.1.1)
Panels shall be rectangular, with a ratio of longer to shorter panel dimensions, measured center-to-center of
supports, not to exceed 2. CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.2)
For slab systems with beams between supports, the relative effective stiffness of beams in the two directions
is not less than 0.2 or greater than 2. CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.2)
Column offsets are not greater than 20% of the span (in the direction of offset) from either axis between
centerlines of successive columns. CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.2)
The reinforcement is placed in an orthogonal grid. CSA A23.3-14 (13.2.2)

2.1.2. Frame members of elastic frame

Determine moment distribution factors and fixed-end moments for the equivalent frame members. The
moment distribution procedure will be used to analyze the equivalent frame. Stiffness factors k, carry over
factors COF, and fixed-end moment factors FEM for the slab-beams and column members are determined
using the design aids tables at Appendix 20A of PCA Notes on ACI 318-11. These calculations are shown
below.

a. Flexural stiffness of slab-beams at both ends, Ksb.

cN 1 500 c 500
  0.056 , N 2   0.056
1 9, 000 2 9, 000

For cF1  cN1 , stiffness factors, kNF  kFN  5.55 PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (Table A2&3)

Ecs I s Ecs I s
Thus, K sb  k NF  5.55 PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (Table A2&3)
1 1

13
 1.32 1010
K sb  5.55  29, 002   2.36 108 N.m
9, 000

h3 9,000  (260)3
Where, I s  s
  1.32 1010 mm4
12 12

  
1.5

Ecs  (3,300 f c'  6,900)  c  CSA A23.3-14(8.6.2.2)

 2,300 
1.5
 2, 447 
Ecs  (3,300 35  6,900)    29, 002 MPa
 2,300 

Carry-over factor COF = 0.576 PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (Table A2&3)
Fixed-end moment, FEM = in1mNFi  wi  l12 PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (Table A2&3)
Uniform load fixed end moment coefficient, mNF1 = 0.0913
Fixed end moment coefficient for (b-a) = 0.2 when a = 0, mNF2 = 0.0163
Fixed end moment coefficient for (b-a) = 0.2 when a = 0.8, mNF3 = 0.0163
The coefficient of fixed end moment for (b-a) = 0.2 when a = 0.8 is taken as 0.0163 in order to be
conservative and take the upper bound and be conservative.

b. Flexural stiffness of column members at both ends, Kc.

Referring to Table A7, Appendix 20A,

For the Bottom Column (Below):

ta  260 / 2  108  238 mm , tb  260 / 2  130 mm

ta 238
  1.83
tb 130

H  4 m  4,000mm , Hc  4,000mm  260 mm 108 mm  3,632 mm

H 4, 000
  1.10
H c 3, 632

Thus, k AB  5.31 and CAB  0.55 by interpolation.

5.31Ecc I c
K c ,bottom  PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (Table A7)
c

5.21109
Kc ,bottom  5.31 31, 047   2.15 108 N.m
4, 000 1, 000

c 4 (500)4
Where I c    5.21109 mm4
12 12

14
   
1.5

Ecc  (3,300 f  6,900)  c 

c
'
CSA A23.3-14(8.6.2.2)
 2,300 
1.5
 2, 447 
Ecc  (3,300 42  6,900)    31, 047 MPa
 2,300 
lc = 4 m = 4,000 mm

For the Top Column (Above):

tb 130
  0.55
ta 238

H 4, 000
  1.10
H c 3, 632

Thus, kBA  4.88 and CBA  0.6 by interpolation.

4.88Ecc I c
Kc  PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (Table A7)
c

5.21109
Kc ,top  4.88  31, 047   1.97 108 N.m
4, 000 1, 000

c. Torsional stiffness of torsional members, K t .

9 Ecs C
Kt  3
CSA A23.3-14(13.8.2.8)
 c2 
t 1  
 t 

9  29, 002  4.45 109

Kt   1.53 108 N.m
9, 000  (1  500 / 9, 000)3 1, 000

 x   x3 y 
Where C   1  0.63    CSA A23.3-14(13.8.2.9)
 y  3 

 368  500 
C  1  0.63   368 
3
  4.45 10 mm
9 4

 500  3 

c2  500 mm , 2  9 m = 9,000 mm

Equivalent column stiffness Kec.

 K c   Kt
Kec 
 K c   Kt

(1.97  1.15)(2 1.53)

Kec  108
[(2.15  1.97)  (2 1.53)]

Kec  1.76 108 N.m

15
 Where∑ Kt is for two torsional members one on each side of the column, and ∑ Kc is for the upper and lower
columns at the slab-beam joint of an intermediate floor.

Figure 9 – Torsional Member Figure 10 – Column and Edge of Slab

d. Slab-beam joint distribution factors, DF.

At exterior joint,
2.36
DF   0.57
(1.76  2.36)
At interior joint,
2.36
DF   0.36
(2.36  2.36  1.76)
COF for slab-beam =0.576

Figure 11 – Slab and Column Stiffness

16
2.1.3. Elastic frame analysis

Determine negative and positive moments for the slab-beams using the moment distribution method. Since
the unfactored live load does not exceed three-quarters of the unfactored dead load, design moments are
assumed to occur at all critical sections with full factored live on all spans. CSA A23.3-14 (13.8.4.2)
L 3 3
  0.41 
D (6.24  1) 4

a. Factored load and Fixed-End Moments (FEM’s).

For slab:
Factored dead load wdf  1.25  (6.24  1)  9.05 kN/m2
Factored live load wlf  1.5  3  4.5 kN/m2
Factored load wf  wdf  wlf  13.55 kN/m2

For drop panels:

Factored dead load wdf  1.25  (24  0.108)  3.24 kN/m2
Factored live load wlf  1.5  0  0 kN/m2
Factored load wf  wdf  wlf  3.24 kN/m2
Fixed-end moment, FEM = in1mNFi  wi  l12 PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (Table A1)

FEM  0.0913 13.55  9  92  0.0163 3.24  (9 / 6)  92  0.0163 3.24  (9 / 3)  92

FEM  914.9 kN.m

b. Moment distribution. Computations are shown in Table 1. Counterclockwise rotational moments acting on
the member ends are taken as positive. Positive span moments are determined from the following equation:
( M uL  M uR )
M f , midspan  M o 
2

Where Mo is the moment at the midspan for a simple beam.

When the end moments are not equal, the maximum moment in the span does not occur at the midspan, but
its value is close to that midspan for this example (6% difference compared with the exact value from
spSlab).
Positive moment in span 1-2:

92  (3.24  9 / 6)  9 / 6  (428.6  1093.2)

M u  (13.55  9)  2   9 / 6   9  9 / 2  
8  29  2

M f  479.3 kN.m

17
 Table 1 - Moment Distribution for Equivalent Frame

Joint 1 2 3 4
Member 1-2 2-1 2-3 3-2 3-4 4-3
DF 0.573 0.364 0.364 0.364 0.364 0.573
COF 0.576 0.576 0.576 0.576 0.576 0.576
FEM 914.9 -914.9 914.9 -914.9 914.9 -914.9
Dist -523.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 523.8
CO 0.0 -301.8 0.0 0.0 301.8 0.0
Dist 0.0 109.9 109.9 -109.9 -109.9 0.0
CO 63.3 0.0 -63.3 63.3 0.0 -63.3
Dist -36.3 23.1 23.1 -23.1 -23.1 36.3
CO 13.3 -20.9 -13.3 13.3 20.9 -13.3
Dist -7.6 12.4 12.4 -12.4 -12.4 7.6
CO 7.2 -4.4 -7.2 7.2 4.4 -7.2
Dist -4.1 4.2 4.2 -4.2 -4.2 4.1
CO 2.4 -2.4 -2.4 2.4 2.4 -2.4
Dist -1.4 1.7 1.7 -1.7 -1.7 1.4
CO 1.0 -0.8 -1.0 1.0 0.8 -1.0
Dist -0.6 0.7 0.7 -0.7 -0.7 0.6
CO 0.4 -0.3 -0.4 0.4 0.3 -0.4
Dist -0.2 0.3 0.3 -0.3 -0.3 0.2
CO 0.1 -0.1 -0.1 0.1 0.1 -0.1
Dist -0.1 0.1 0.1 -0.1 -0.1 0.1
CO 0.1 -0.1 -0.1 0.1 0.1 -0.1
Dist 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
M, kN.m 428.6 -1093.2 979.5 -979.5 1093.2 -428.6
Midspan M,
479.3 260.8 473.9
kN.m

2.1.4. Factored moments used for Design

Positive and negative factored moments for the slab system in the direction of analysis are plotted in Figure
12. The negative moments used for design are taken at the faces of supports (rectangle section or equivalent
rectangle for circular or polygon sections) but not at distances greater than 0.175 l1 from the centers of
supports. CSA A23.3-14 (13.8.5.1)

500 mm  0.175  9,000  1,575 mm (use face of supporting location)

18
Figure 12 - Positive and Negative Design Moments for Slab-Beam (All Spans Loaded with Full Factored Live Load)

19
2.1.5. Distribution of design moments

Check Applicability of Direct Design Method:

1. There is a minimum of three continuous spans in each direction. CSA A23.3-14 (13.9.1.2)
2. Successive span lengths are equal. CSA A23.3-14 (13.9.1.3)
3. Loads are uniformly distributed over the entire panel CSA A23.3-14 (13.9.1.4)
4. Factored live-to-dead load ratio of 0.5 < 2.0 CSA A23.3-14 (13.9.1.4)
(Note: The self-weight of the drop panels is not uniformly distributed entirely along the span. However,
the variation in load magnitude is small).

After the negative and positive moments have been determined for the slab-beam strip, the ACI code permits
the distribution of the moments at critical sections to the column strips, beams (if any), and middle strips in
accordance with the DDM. CSA A23.3-14 (13.11.2.2)
Distribution of factored moments at critical sections is summarized in Table 2.
Table 2 - Distribution of factored moments
Slab-beam Strip Column Strip Middle Strip
Moment Moment Moment
Percent Percent
(kN.m) (kN.m) (kN.m)
Exterior Negative 310.09 100 310.09 0 0.00
End Span Positive 479.32 60 287.59 40 191.73
Interior Negative 937.84 82.5 773.72 17.5 164.12
Negative 842.53 82.5 695.09 17.5 147.44
Interior Span
Positive 260.75 60 156.45 40 104.30

2.1.6. Flexural reinforcement requirements

a. Determine flexural reinforcement required for strip moments

The flexural reinforcement calculation for the column strip of end span – exterior negative location is
provided below.
M f  310.09 kN.m

Use davg = 332 mm

In this example, jd is assumed equal to 0.98d. The assumption will be verified once the area of steel in
finalized.
Assume jd  0.98  d  325.4 mm

Column strip width, b  9,000 / 2  4,500 mm

Middle strip width, b  9,000  4,500  4,500 mm

Mf 310.9 106
As    2,803 mm2
s f y jd 0.85  400  325.4

20
1  0.85  0.0015 fc'  0.80  0.67 CSA A23.3-14 (10.1.7)

s As f y 0.85  2834  400

Recalculate ' a ' for the actual As  2803 mm 2  a    11.67 mm
c1 f 'c b 0.65  0.80  35  4,500

jd  d  a  0.98d
2

Therefore, the assumption that jd equals to 0.98d is valid.

The slab have two thicknesses in the column strip (368 mm for the slab with the drop panel and 260 mm for
the slab without the drop panel).
The weighted slab thickness:
368  9 / 3  260  9 / 2  9 / 3
hw   332 mm
9 / 3  9 / 2  9 / 3

As ,min  0.002  4500  332  2988 mm2 > 2814 mm2 CSA A23.3-14 (7.8.1)

Maximum spacing: CSA A23.3-14 (13.10.4)

- Negative reinforcement in the band defined by bb: 1.5hw  498 mm  250 mm
- Remaining negative moment reinforcement: 3hw  996 mm  500 mm
For the negative reinforcements at the exterior span the maximum spacing is 250 mm. To distribute
the bars uniformly, the same minimum spacing is applied to the remaining negative moment
reinforcements within the column.

Reinforcement for the total factored negative moment transferred to the exterior columns shall be placed
within a band width bb. Temperature and shrinkage reinforcement determined as specified in Clause 7.8.1
shall be provided in that section of the slab outside if the band region defined by bb.
CSA A23.3-14 (13.10.3)
bb  500  2  (1.5  368)  1,604 mm
Provide 10 – 15M bars with As = 3,000 mm2 within bb width and 9 – 15M bars with As = 1,800 mm2 out of
the band. Based on the procedure outlined above, values for all span locations are given in Table 3.

21
 Table 3 - Required Slab Reinforcement for Flexure [Equivalent Frame Method (EFM)]
As Req’d
Mu b d Min As Reinforceme As Prov. for
Span Location for flexure
(kN.m) (mm) (mm) 2 (mm2) nt Provided flexure (mm2)
(mm )
End Span
Exterior Negative 310.10 4,500 332 2,803 2,988 24-15M* 4,800
Column
Positive 287.60 4,500 224 3,933 2,340 21-15M 4,200
Strip
Interior Negative 773.72 4,500 332 7,204 2,988 37-15M 7,400
Exterior Negative 0.0 4,500 224 0.0 2,340 12-15M* 2,400
Middle
Positive 191.7 4,500 224 2,579 2,340 14-15M 2,800
Strip
Interior Negative 164.12 4,500 224 2,207 2,340 12-15M* 2,400
Interior Span
Column
Positive 156.45 180 224 2,096 2340 12-15M* 2,400
Strip
Middle
Positive 104.30 180 224 1,387 2340 12-15M* 2,400
Strip
* Design governed by minimum reinforcement

b. Calculate additional slab reinforcement at columns for moment transfer between slab and column by
flexure
The factored slab moment resisted by the column (  f  M f ) shall be assumed to be transferred by flexure.

When gravity load, wind, earthquake, or other lateral forces cause transfer of moment between slab and
column, a fraction of unbalanced moment given by  f shall be transferred by flexural reinforcement placed

within a width bb. CSA A23.3-14 (13.10.2)

Portion of the unbalanced moment transferred by flexure is  f  M r

1
f  CSA A23.3-14 (13.10.2)
1  (2 / 3)  b1 / b2

Where
b1 = Width of the critical section for shear measured in the direction of the span for which moments are
determined according to CSA A23.3-14, clause 13 (see the following figure).
b2 = Width of the critical section for shear measured in the direction perpendicular to b1 according to CSA
A23.3-14, clause 13 (see the following figure).
bb = Effective slab width = c2  3  hs CSA A23.3-14 (3.2)

22
 Figure 13 – Critical Shear Perimeters for Columns

For exterior support:

d = 332 mm
b1  c1 + d/2 = 500+ 332/2 = 666 mm

b2  c2 + d = 500 + 332 = 832 mm

bb  500  3  368  1,604 mm

1
f   0.626
1  (2 / 3)  666 / 832

 f M sc  0.626  428.6  268.4 kN.m

Using the same procedure in 2.1.6.a, the required area of steel:
As  2, 412 mm2
The area of steel provided to resist the flexural moment within the effective slab width bb:
As , provided  3,000 mm2

Then, there is no need to add additional reinforcement for the unbalanced moment.

Based on the procedure outlined above, values for all supports are given in Table 4.

23
 Table 4 - Additional Slab Reinforcement required for moment transfer between slab and column (EFM)
Effective slab As req’d As prov. For
Msc* γf Msc d Add’l
Span Location γf width, bb within bb flexure within bb
(kN.m) (kN.m) (mm) Reinf.
(mm) (mm2) (mm2)
End Span
Exterior Negative 428.6 0.626 268.4 1,604 332 2,412 3,000 -
Column Strip
Interior Negative 113.8 0.60 68.3 1,604 332 607 3,000 -
*Msc is taken at the centerline of the support in Equivalent Frame Method solution.

2.1.7. Factored moments in columns

The unbalanced moment from the slab-beams at the supports of the equivalent frame are distributed to the
support columns above and below the slab-beam in proportion to the relative stiffness of the support columns.
Referring to Figure 12, the unbalanced moment at the exterior and interior joints are:
Exterior Joint = +428.6 kN.m
Joint 2= -1,093.2 + 979.5 = -113.7 kN.m
The stiffness and carry-over factors of the actual columns and the distribution of the unbalanced slab
moments (Msc) to the exterior and interior columns are shown in the following figure.

24
 Figure 14 - Column Moments (Unbalanced Moments from Slab-Beam)

In summary:
For Top column (Above): For Bottom column (Below):
Mcol,Exterior= 194.56 kN.m Mcol,Exterior= 202.73 kN.m
Mcol,Interior = 51.65 kN.m Mcol,Interior = 53.82 kN.m
The moments determined above are combined with the factored axial loads (for each story) and factored
moments in the transverse direction for design of column sections. The moment values at the face of interior,
exterior, and corner columns from the unbalanced moment values are shown in the following table.

25
 Table 5 – Factored Moments in Columns
Mu Column Location
kN.m Interior Exterior Corner
Mux 54.57 205.5 117.17
Muy 54.57 54.57 117.17

3. Design of Columns by spColumn

This section includes the design of interior, edge, and corner columns using spColumn software. The preliminary
dimensions for these columns were calculated previously in section one.

3.1. Determination of factored loads

Interior Column:
Assume 5 story building
Tributary area for interior column for live load, superimposed dead load, and self-weight of the slab is
ATributary  9  9  81 m2

Tributary area for interior column for self-weight of additional slab thickness due to the presence of the drop
panel is
ATributary  3  3  9 m2

Assuming five story building

Pf  n  wf  ATributary  5  13.55  81  9  3.24  5,633.5 kN

Mf,x = 54.57 kN.m (see the previous Table)

Mf,y = 54.57 kN.m (see the previous Table)

Edge (Exterior) Column:

Tributary area for edge column for live load, superimposed dead load, and self-weight of the slab is
 9 0.5 
ATributary      9  42.75 m
2

2 2 
Tributary area for edge column for self-weight of additional slab thickness due to the presence of the drop
panel is
 3 0.5 
ATributary      3  5.25 m
2

 2 2 

Pf  n  wf  ATributary  5  13.55  42.75  3.24  5.25  2,981.4 kN

Mf,x = 205.5 kN.m (see the previous Table)

Mf,y = 54.57 kN.m (see the previous Table)

26
Corner Column:
Tributary area for corner column for live load, superimposed dead load, and self-weight of the slab is
 9 0.5   9 0.5 
ATributary        22.56 m
2

 2 2   2 2 
Tributary area for corner column for self-weight of additional slab thickness due to the presence of the drop
panel is
 3 0.5   3 0.5 
ATributary        3.06 m
2

2 2  2 2 

Pf  n  wf  ATributary  5  13.55  22.56  3.24  3.24  1,578.2 kN

Mu,x = 117.2 kN.m (see the previous Table)

Mu,y = 117.2 kN.m (see the previous Table)

27
3.2. Moment Interaction Diagram

Interior Column:

28
Edge Column:

29
Corner Column:

30
4. Shear Strength

Shear strength of the slab in the vicinity of columns/supports includes an evaluation of one-way shear (beam
action) and two-way shear (punching) in accordance with CSA A23.3-14 Chapter 13.

4.1. One-Way (Beam action) Shear Strength CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.6)

One-way shear is critical at a distance d from the face of the column as shown in Figure 3. Figures 15 and 16
show the factored shear forces (Vf) at the critical sections around each column and each drop panel, respectively.
In members without shear reinforcement, the design shear capacity of the section equals to the design shear
capacity of the concrete:

Vr  Vc  Vs  Vp  Vc , (Vs  Vp  0) CSA A23.3-14 (Eq. 11.4)

Where:

Vc  c  fc' bw dv CSA A23.3-14 (Eq. 11.5)

Note: The calculations below follow one of two possible approaches for checking one-way shear. Refer to
the conclusions section for a comparison with the other approach.

4.1.1. At distance dv from the supporting column

368  9 / 3  260  9  9 / 3
hweighted   296 mm
9
dw  296  28  16 / 2  260 mm

dv  Max (0.9d ,0.72h)  Max (0.9  260,0.72  260)  234 mm CSA A23.3-14 (3.2)

  1 for normal weight concrete

230 230
   0.186 CSA A23.3-14 (11.3.6.3)
(1, 000  dv ) (1, 000  234)

234
Vc  0.65 1 0.186  35  9,000   1,506.4 kN > V f
1,000

Because Vr  V f at all the critical sections, the slab has adequate one-way shear strength.

31
 Figure 15 – One-way shear at critical sections (at distance d from the face of the supporting column)

4.1.2. At the face of the drop panel

h  260 mm
d  260  28  16 / 2  224 mm

dv  Max (0.9d ,0.72h)  Max (0.9  224,0.72  260)  202 mm CSA A23.3-14 (3.2)

  1 for normal weight concrete

  0.21 for slabs with overall thickness not greater than 350 mm CSA A23.3-14 (11.3.6.2)

202
Vc  0.65 1 0.21 35  9,000   1, 465.2 kN > V f
1,000
Because Vr  V f at all the critical sections, the slab has adequate one-way shear strength.

Figure 16 – One-way shear at critical sections (at the face of the drop panel)

32
4.2. Two-Way (Punching) Shear Strength CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.2)

4.2.1. Around the columns faces

Two-way shear is critical on a rectangular section located at d/2 away from the face of the column as shown
in Figure 13.

a. Exterior column:

The factored shear force (Vf) in the critical section is computed as the reaction at the centroid of the critical
section minus the self-weight and any superimposed surface dead and live load acting within the critical section
(d/2 away from column face).

 666  832 
V f  V  w f b1  b2   474.9  16.79    465.6 kN
 10 
6

The factored unbalanced moment used for shear transfer, Munb, is computed as the sum of the joint moments
to the left and right. Moment of the vertical reaction with respect to the centroid of the critical section is also
taken into account.

 666  205  500 / 2 

M unb  M  V f b1  cAB  c1 / 2  428.5  474.9    330.3 kN.m
 103 
For the exterior column in Figure 13, the location of the centroidal axis z-z is:

moment of area of the sides about AB 2(666  (832  666)  666 / 2)

cAB    205 mm
area of the sides 2  666  332  832  332

The polar moment Jc of the shear perimeter is:

 b d 3 db 3 b  
2
J  2  1  1  b1d   1  cAB    b2 dc AB
2

 12 12  2  
 

 666  3323 332  6663  666  

2
J  2    666  332   205    832  332  2052
 12 12  2  


J  3.93 1010 mm4

γv  1  γ f  1  0.626  0.374 CSA A23.3-14 (Eq. 13.8)

The length of the critical perimeter for the exterior column:

bo  2  666  832  2,164 mm

The two-way shear stress (vf) can then be calculated as:

33
 Vf  v M unb cAB
vf   CSA A23.3-14 (Eq.13.9)
bo  d J

465.6 1, 000 0.374  (330.3 106 )  205

v    1.29 MPa
f 2,164  332 2.926 1010

The factored resisting shear stress, Vr shall be the smallest of: CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.4.1)
 2   2
a) vr  vc  1   0.19c f 'c  1   0.19  0.65  35  2.19 MPa
  c   1
 d   3  332 
b) vr  vc   s  0.19  c f 'c    0.19  1 0.65  35  2.5 MPa
 bo   2164 

c) vr  vc  0.38c f 'c  0.38 1 0.65  35  1.46 MPa

If the effective depth. D, used in two-way shear calculations exceeds 300 mm, the value of vc obtained shall

be multiplied by 1,300/ (1,000+d). CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.4.1)

1,300
vr  vc  1.46   1.426 MPa
(1, 000  332)

Since vc  v f at the critical section, the slab has adequate two-way shear strength around this drop panel.

b. Interior column:

 832  832 
V f  V  w f b1  b2   622.6  548.8  16.79    1,159.8 kN
 10 
6

M unb  M  V f b1  cAB  c1 / 2  113.8  1,159.8(0)  113.8 kN

For the interior column in Figure 13, the location of the centroidal axis z-z is:

b 832
cAB  1
  416 mm
2 2

The polar moment Jc of the shear perimeter is:

 b d 3 db 3  b1 
2

J  2  1  1  b d
 12 12 1
   c 
2 AB 
  2b dc 2


2 AB

   

 832  3323 332  8323  832  

2
J  2   832  332   416    2  832  332  4162
 12 12  2  


J  1.33 1011 mm4

34
γ  1  γ  1  0.600  0.400 CSA A23.3-14 (Eq. 13.8)
v f

The length of the critical perimeter for the interior column:

bo  2  832  832  3,328 mm

The two-way shear stress (vf) can then be calculated as:

Vf  v M unb cAB
vf   CSA A23.3-14 (Eq.13.9)
bo  d J

1,171.4 1, 000 0.4  (113.8 106 )  416

vf    1.19 MPa
3,328  332 1.33 1011

The factored resisting shear stress, Vr shall be the smallest of: CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.4.1)
 2   2
a) vr  vc  1   0.19c f 'c  1   0.19  0.65  35  2.19 MPa
 c   1
 d   4  332 
b) vr  vc   s  0.19  c f 'c    0.19  1 0.65  35  2.27 MPa
 o
b   3328 

c) vr  vc  0.38c f 'c  0.38 1 0.65  35  1.46 MPa

If the effective depth. D, used in two-way shear calculations exceeds 300 mm, the value of vc obtained shall

be multiplied by 1,300/ (1,000+d). CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.4.1)

1,300
vr  vc  1.46   1.426 Mpa
(1, 000  332)
Since vc  v f at the critical section, the slab has adequate two-way shear strength around this drop panel.

c. Corner column:

In this example, interior equivalent frame strip was selected where it only have exterior and interior supports
(no corner supports are included in this strip). However, the two-way shear strength of corner supports usually
governs. Thus, the two-way shear strength for the corner column in this example will be checked for educational
purposes. Same procedure is used to find the reaction and factored unbalanced moment used for shear transfer
at the centroid of the critical section for the corner support for the exterior equivalent frame strip.

 666  666 
V f  V  w f b1  b2   261.4  16.79    253.9 kN
 10 
6

 666  166.5  500 / 2 

M unb  M  V f b1  cAB  c1 / 2  247.7  253.9    184.3 kN.m
 103 

For the interior column in Figure 13, the location of the centroidal axis z-z is:

35
 moment of area of the sides about AB (666  332  666 / 2)
cAB    166.5 mm
area of the sides 666  332  666  332

The polar moment Jc of the shear perimeter is:

 b d 3 db 3 b  
2

J   1  1  b1d   1  cAB    b2 dcAB

2
 12 12  2  


 666  3323 666  3323  666  

2
Jc      666  332   166.5    666  332  166.52
 12 12  2  


J c  2.25 1010 mm4

γ  1  γ  1  0.600  0.400 CSA A23.3-14 (Eq. 13.8)

v f

The length of the critical perimeter for the corner column:

bo  666  666  1,332 mm

The two-way shear stress (vu) can then be calculated as:

Vf  v M unb cAB
vf   CSA A23.3-14 (Eq.13.9)
bo  d J

253.9 1, 000 0.4  (184.3 106 ) 166.5

vf    1.12 MPa
1,332  332 2.25 1010

The factored resisting shear stress, Vr shall be the smallest of: CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.4.1)
 2   2
a) vr  vc  1   0.19c f 'c  1   0.19  0.65  35  2.19 MPa
  c   1
 d   2  332 
b) vr  vc   s  0.19  c f 'c    0.19  1 0.65  35  2.65 MPa
 bo   1,332 

c) vr  vc  0.38c f 'c  0.38 1 0.65  35  1.46 MPa

If the effective depth. D, used in two-way shear calculations exceeds 300 mm, the value of vc obtained shall

be multiplied by 1300/ (1000+d). CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.4.1)

1,300
vr  vc  1.46   1.426 MPa
(1, 000  332)
Since vc  v f at the critical section, the slab has adequate two-way shear strength around this drop panel.

36
4.2.2. Around drop panels

Two-way shear is critical on a rectangular section located at d/2 away from the face of the drop panel.
Note: The two-way shear stress calculations around drop panels do not have the term for unbalanced moment
since drop panels are a thickened portion of the slab and are not considered as a support.

a. Exterior drop panel:

 1,862  3, 224 
V f  V  w f A  474.9  13.55    393.6 kN
 106 

The length of the critical perimeter for the exterior drop panel:

bo  2 1,862  3, 224  6,948 mm

The two-way shear stress (vf) can then be calculated as:

Vf
vf  CSA A23.3-14 (N.13.3.5.4)
bo  d

393.6 1, 000

vf   0.25 MPa
6,948  224

The factored resisting shear stress, Vr shall be the smallest of: CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.4.1)
 2   2
a) vr  vc  1   0.19c f 'c  1   0.19  0.65  35  2.19 MPa
  c   1
 d   3  224 
b) vr  vc   s  0.19  c f 'c    0.19  1 0.65  35  1.10 MPa
 bo   6,948 

c) vr  vc  0.38c f 'c  0.38 1 0.65  35  1.46 MPa

Since vc  v f at the critical section, the slab has adequate two-way shear strength around this drop panel.

b. Interior drop panel:

V f  V  wf A

 3, 224  3, 224 
V f  622.6  548.8  13.55    1,030.6 kN
 106 

The length of the critical perimeter for the interior drop panel:

bo  2  3, 224  3, 224  12,896 mm

The two-way shear stress (vf) can then be calculated as:

37
 Vf
vf  CSA A23.3-14 (N.13.3.5.4)
bo  d

1, 030.6 1, 000

vf   0.36 MPa
12,896  224

The factored resisting shear stress, Vr shall be the smallest of: CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.4.1)
 2   2
a) vr  vc  1   0.19c f 'c  1   0.19  0.65  35  2.19 MPa
 c   1
 d   4  224 
b) vr  vc   s  0.19  c f 'c    0.19  1 0.65  35  1.00 MPa
 o
b   12,896 

c) vr  vc  0.38c f 'c  0.38 1 0.65  35  1.46 MPa

Since vc  v f at the critical section, the slab has adequate two-way shear strength around this drop panel.

c. Corner drop panel:

V f  V  wf A

 1,862 1,862 
V f  261.4  13.55    214.4 kN
 106 

The length of the critical perimeter for the corner drop panel:

bo  1,862  1,862  3724 mm

The two-way shear stress (vf) can then be calculated as:

Vf
vf  CSA A23.3-14 (N.13.3.5.4)
bo  d

214.4 1, 000

vf   0.24 MPa
3, 724  224

The factored resisting shear stress, Vr shall be the smallest of: CSA A23.3-14 (13.3.4.1)
 2   2
a) vr  vc  1   0.19c f 'c  1   0.19  0.65  35  2.19 MPa
 c   1
 d   2  224 
b) vr  vc   s  0.19  c f 'c    0.19  1 0.65  35  1.19 MPa
 o
b   3, 724 

c) vr  vc  0.38c f 'c  0.38 1 0.65  35  1.46 MPa

Since vc  v f at the critical section, the slab has adequate two-way shear strength around this drop panel.

38
5. Serviceability Requirements (Deflection Check)

Since the slab thickness was selected below the minimum slab thickness equations in CSA A23.3-14, the
deflection calculations of immediate and time-dependent deflections are required and shown below including a
comparison with spSlab model results.

5.1. Immediate (Instantaneous) Deflections

When deflections are to be computed, deflections that occur immediately on application of load shall be
computed by methods or formulas for elastic deflections, taking into consideration the effects of cracking and
reinforcement on member stiffness. Unless deflections are determined by a more comprehensive analysis,
immediate deflection shall be computed using elastic deflection equations. CSA A23.3-14 (9.8.2.2 & 9.8.2.3)

The calculation of deflections for two-way slabs is challenging even if linear elastic behavior can be assumed.
Elastic analysis for three service load levels (D, D + Lsustained, D+LFull) is used to obtain immediate deflections
of the two-way slab in this example. However, other procedures may be used if they result in predictions of
deflection in reasonable agreement with the results of comprehensive tests.
The effective moment of inertia (Ie) is used to account for the cracking effect on the flexural stiffness of the
slab. Ie for uncracked section (Mcr > Ma) is equal to Ig. When the section is cracked (Mcr < Ma), then the
following equation should be used:
3
M 
I e  I cr   I g  I cr   cr   I g CSA A23.3-14 (Eq.9.1)
 Ma 

Where:
Ma = Maximum moment in member due to service loads at stage deflection is calculated.

The values of the maximum moments for the three service load levels are calculated from structural analysis as
shown previously in this document. These moments are shown in Figure 17.

39
 Figure 17 – Maximum Moments for the Three Service Load Levels
(No live load is sustained in this example)

For positive moment (midspan) section:

M cr  Cracking moment.

M cr 
fr I g

 3.55 / 2   (1.32 1010 ) 106  179.9 kN.m CSA A23.3-14 (Eq.9.2)
Yt 130

fr = Modulus of rapture of concrete.

f r  0.6 fc'  0.6 1.0  35  3.55 MPa CSA A23.3-14 (Eq.8.3)

I g = Moment of inertia of the gross uncracked concrete section.

40
 l2 h3 9, 000  2603
Ig    1.32 1010 mm
12 12
yt = Distance from centroidal axis of gross section, neglecting reinforcement, to tension face, mm.
h 260
yt    130 mm
2 2
Icr = Moment of inertia of the cracked section transformed to concrete.
CAC Concrete Design Handbook 4th Edition (Table 6.2(a))

As calculated previously, the positive reinforcement for the end span frame strip is 35-15M bars are located
along the section from the bottom of the slab. Two of these bars are not continuous and will be conservatively
excluded from the calculation of Icr since they might not be adequately developed or tied (33 bars are used).
Figure 18 shows all the parameters needed to calculate the moment of inertia of the cracked section transformed
to concrete at midspan.

Figure 18 – Cracked Transformed Section (positive moment section)

Ecs = Modulus of elasticity of slab concrete.

  
1.5 1.5
 2, 447 
Ecs  (3,300 f c'  6,900)  c   (3,300 35  6,900)    29, 002 MPa CSA A23.3-14(8.6.2.2)
 2,300   2,300 
Es 200, 000
n   6.9 CAC Concrete Design Handbook 4th Edition (Table 6.2a)
Ecs 29, 002

b 9, 000
B   0.2 mm1 CAC Concrete Design Handbook 4th Edition (Table 6.2a)
n As 6.9  33  200

2dB  1  1 2  224  0.2  1  1

kd    42.81 mm
B 0.2

CAC Concrete Design Handbook 4th Edition (Table 6.2a)

b(kd )3
I cr   nAs (d  kd )2 CAC Concrete Design Handbook 4th Edition (Table 6.2a)
3

9,000  (42.81)3
I cr   6.90  33  200   224  42.81  1.73  109 mm4
2

41
For negative moment section (near the interior support of the end span):
The negative reinforcement for the end span frame strip near the interior support is 36-15M bars along the
section from the top of the slab.

M cr 
fr I g

 3.55 / 2   (2.311010 ) 106  269.4 kN.m CSA A23.3-14 (Eq.9.2)
Yt 152.4

f r  0.6 fc'  0.6 1.0  35  3.55 MPa CSA A23.3-14 (Eq.8.3)

I g  2.311010 mm4

yt  152.4 mm

Figure 19 – Ig calculations for slab section near support

  
1.5

Ecs  (3,300 f c'  6,900)  c  CSA A23.3-14(8.6.2.2)

 2,300 
1.5
 2, 447 
Ecs  (3,300 35  6,900)    29, 002 MPa
 2,300 
Es 200, 000
n   6.9 CAC Concrete Design Handbook 4th Edition (Table 6.2a)
Ecs 29, 002

b 3, 000
B   0.06 mm1 CAC Concrete Design Handbook 4th Edition (Table 6.2a)
n As 6.9  36  200

2dB  1  1 2  332  0.06  1  1

kd    89.6 mm
B 0.06

CAC Concrete Design Handbook 4th Edition (Table 6.2a)

b(kd )3
I cr   nAs (d  kd )2 CAC Concrete Design Handbook 4th Edition (Table 6.2a)
3

3,000  (89.58)3
I cr   6.90  36  200  332  89.58  3.64 109 mm4
2

42
 Figure 20 – Cracked Transformed Section (negative moment section)

The effective moment of inertia procedure described in the Code is considered sufficiently accurate to estimate
deflections. The effective moment of inertia, Ie, was developed to provide a transition between the upper and
lower bounds of Ig and Icr as a function of the ratio Mcr/Ma. For conventionally reinforced (nonprestressed)
members, the effective moment of inertia, Ie, shall be calculated by Eq. (9.1) unless obtained by a more
comprehensive analysis.

For continuous prismatic members, the effective moment of inertia may be taken as the weighted average of
the values obtained from Equation 9.1 for the critical positive and negative moment sections
CSA A23.3-14(9.8.2.4)
For the middle span (span with two ends continuous) with service load level (D+LLfull):
3
M 
I e  I cr  I g  I cr   cr  , since M cr  269.4 kN.m < M a =739 kN.m CSA A23.3-14(Eq. 9.1)
 Ma 
Where Ie- is the effective moment of inertia for the critical negative moment section (near the support).
3
 269.4 
I e  4.64 109   2.311010  4.64 109     5.53  10 mm
9 4

 739 
For the middle span (span with two ends continuous) with service load level (D+LLfull):
3
M 
I  I cr   I g  I cr   cr  , since M cr  179.9 kN.m < M a =202.9 kN.m

e CSA A23.3-14(Eq. 9.1)
 Ma 
3
 179.9 
I e  1.31109  1.32 1010  1.31109     9.59 10 mm
9 4

 202.9 

Where Ie+ is the effective moment of inertia for the critical positive moment section (midspan).

Since midspan stiffness (including the effect of cracking) has a dominant effect on deflections, midspan section
is heavily represented in calculation of Ie and this is considered satisfactory in approximate deflection
calculations. Both the midspan stiffness (Ie+) and averaged span stiffness (Ie,avg) can be used in the calculation
of immediate (instantaneous) deflection.

43
The averaged effective moment of inertia (Ie,avg) is given by:

I e, avg  0.70 I e  0.15  I e,l  I e, r  for two ends continuous CSA A23.3-14 (Eq.9.3)

I e, avg  0.85 I e  0.15 I e for one end continuous CSA A23.3-14 (Eq.9.4)

However, these expressions lead to improved results only for continuous prismatic members. The drop panels
in this example result in non-prismatic members and the following expressions should be used according to
ACI 318-89:

I e, avg  0.50 I e  0.25  I e,l  I e, r  for interior span ACI 435R-95 (2.14)

For the middle span (span with two ends continuous) with service load level (Dl):

I e, avg  0.50 13.18 109  0.25 7.14 109  7.14 109   10.16 109 mm4

I e, avg  0.50 I e  0.50 I e for end span ACI 435R-95 (2.14)

For the end span (span with one end continuous) with service load level (Dl):

Ie,avg  0.50  5.06 109  0.50  6.44 109  5.75 109 mm4

Where:

I  = The effective moment of inertia for the critical negative moment section near the left support.
e, l

I  = The effective moment of inertia for the critical negative moment section near the right support.
e, l

I  = The effective moment of inertia for the critical positive moment section (midspan).
e

Table 6 provides a summary of the required parameters and calculated values needed for deflections for exterior
and interior spans.

44
 Table 6 – Averaged Effective Moment of Inertia Calculations

For Frame Strip

Ma, kN.m Ie, mm4 (×109) Ie,avg, mm4 (×109)
Ig, Icr, Mcr,
Span zone mm4 mm4 D+ D+ D+ D+ D+ D+
D kN.m D D
(×109) (×109)
LLSus Lfull LLSus Lfull LLSus Lfull

Left 23.13 3.64 -231.4 -231.4 -325.7 269.4 23.13 23.13 14.67
Ext Midspan 13.18 1.73 271.7 271.7 383.4 179.9 5.06 5.06 2.91 5.75 5.75 4.10
Right 23.13 4.64 -585.8 -585.8 -824.6 269.4 6.44 6.44 5.28
Left 23.13 4.64 -525.0 -525.0 739 269.4 7.14 7.14 5.53
Int Midspan 13.18 1.31 179.9 179.9 179.9 179.9 13.18 13.18 9.60 10.16 10.16 7.56
Right 23.13 4.64 -525.0 -525.0 739 269.4 7.14 7.14 5.53

Deflections in two-way slab systems shall be calculated taking into account size and shape of the panel,
conditions of support, and nature of restraints at the panel edges. For immediate deflections in two-way slab
systems, the midpanel deflection is computed as the sum of deflection at midspan of the column strip or column
line in one direction (Δcx or Δcy) and deflection at midspan of the middle strip in the orthogonal direction (Δmx
or Δmy). Figure 21 shows the deflection computation for a rectangular panel. The average Δ for panels that have
different properties in the two direction is calculated as follows:

(   )  (   )
cx my cy mx
 PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (9.5.3.4 Eq. 8)
2

Figure 21 – Deflection Computation for a rectangular Panel

45
To calculate each term of the previous equation, the following procedure should be used. Figure 22 shows the
procedure of calculating the term Δcx. Same procedure can be used to find the other terms.

Figure 22 –Δcx calculation procedure

For end span - service dead load case:

wl 4
 frame, fixed  PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (9.5.3.4 Eq. 10)
384 Ec I frame, averaged

Where:

 frame, fixed = Deflection of column strip assuming fixed end condition.

w  (1  24  0.260)(9)  65.16 kN/m

  
1.5

Ecs  (3,300 f c'  6,900)  c  CSA A23.3-14(8.6.2.2)

 2,300 
1.5
 2, 447 
Ecs  (3,300 35  6,900)    29, 000 MPa
 2,300 
Iframe,averaged = The averaged effective moment of inertia (Ie,avg) for the frame strip for service dead load case
from Table 6 = 5.75 x 109 mm4

(65.16)(9 103 )4
 frame, fixed   5.31 mm
384(29, 000)(5.75 109 )

I frame, averaged
c , fixed  LDFc   frame, fixed  PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (9.5.3.4 Eq. 11)
I c, g

46
For this example and like in the spSlab program, the effective moment of inertia at midspan will be used.

LDFc is the load distribution factor for the column strip. The load distribution factor for the column strip can
be found from the following equation:

LDFl   LDFR
LDF  
LDFc  2
2

And the load distribution factor for the middle strip can be found from the following equation:

LDFm  1  LDFc

For the end span, LDF for exterior negative region (LDFL¯), interior negative region (LDFR¯), and positive
＋
region (LDF ) are 1.00, 0.825, and 0.60, respectively (From Table 2 of this document). Thus, the load
distribution factor for the column strip for the end span is given by:

1.0  0.825
0.6 
LDFc  2  0.756
2

Ic,g = The gross moment of inertia (Ig) for the column strip for service dead load = 6.59 x 109 mm4

13.18 109
c, fixed  0.756  0.0995   8.03 mm
6.59 109

( M net , L ) frame
c , L  PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (9.5.3.4 Eq. 12)
K ec

Where:

c, L = Rotation of the span left support.

(M net , L ) frame  231 kN-m = Net frame strip negative moment of the left support.

Kec = effective column stiffness = 1.76 x 105 kN-m/rad (calculated previously).

231
c , L   0.00131 rad
1.76 105

 l   Ig 
c , L  c , L     PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (9.5.3.4 Eq. 14)
 8   I e  frame

Where:

c, L = Midspan deflection due to rotation of left support.

47
 Ig 
  = Gross-to-effective moment of inertia ratio for frame strip.
 I e  frame

9000  500 13.18 109

c , L  0.00131   3.20 mm
8 5.75 109

M net , R  6.08 107

c , R  frame
  0.00035 rad
K ec 1.76 1011

Where

c, R = Rotation of the end span right support.

(M net , R ) frame  Net frame strip negative moment of the right support.

 l  Ig  9000  500 13.18 109

c , R  c , R      0.00035    0.84 mm
 8   I e  frame 8 5.75 109

Where:

c, R = Midspan delfection due to rotation of right support.

cx  cx, fixed  cx, R  cx, L PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (9.5.3.4 Eq. 9)

cx  8.03  3.20  0.84  12.07 mm

Following the same procedure, Δmx can be calculated for the middle strip. This procedure is repeated for the
equivalent frame in the orthogonal direction to obtain Δcy, and Δmy for the end and middle spans for the other
load levels (D+LLsus and D+LLfull).

Since in this example the panel is squared, Δcx = Δcy= 12.07 mm and Δmx = Δmy= 6.63 mm

The average Δ for the corner panel is calculated as follows:


 cx   my    cy   mx 
  cx   my     cy   mx   12.07  6.63  18.70 mm
2

48
 Table 7 – Immediate (Instantaneous) Deflections in the x-direction

Column Strip Middle Strip

D D
Span LDF Δframe-fixed, Δc-fixed, θc1, θc2, Δθc1, Δθc2, Δcx, LDF Δframe-fixed, Δm-fixed, θm1, θm2, Δθm1, Δθm2, Δmx,
mm mm rad rad mm mm mm mm mm mm mm mm mm mm
Ext 0.756 5.21 8.03 0.00131 0.00035 3.20 0.84 12.07 0.244 5.31 2.59 0.00131 0.00035 3.20 0.84 6.63

Int 0.713 3.00 4.28 0.00035 0.00035 0.48 0.48 3.33 0.288 3.01 1.83 0.00035 0.00035 0.48 0.48 0.78

D+LLsus D+LLsus
Span LDF Δframe-fixed, Δc-fixed, θc1, θc2, Δθc1, Δθc2, Δcx, LDF Δframe-fixed, Δm-fixed, θm1, θm2, Δθm1, Δθm2, Δmx,
mm mm rad rad mm mm mm mm mm mm mm mm mm mm
Ext 0.756 5.21 8.03 0.00131 0.00035 3.20 0.84 12.07 0.244 5.31 2.59 0.00131 0.00035 3.20 0.84 6.63

Int 0.713 3.00 4.28 0.00035 0.00035 0.48 0.48 3.33 0.288 3.01 1.83 0.00035 0.00035 0.48 0.48 0.78

D+LLfull D+LLfull
Span LDF Δframe-fixed, Δc-fixed, θc1, θc2, Δθc1, Δθc2, Δcx, LDF Δframe-fixed, Δm-fixed, θm1, θm2, Δθm1, Δθm2, Δmx,
mm mm rad rad mm mm mm mm mm mm mm mm mm mm
Ext 0.756 10.54 15.94 0.00184 0.00049 6.27 1.66 23.87 0.244 10.54 5.14 0.00184 0.00049 6.27 1.66 13.07

Int 0.713 5.71 8.14 0.00049 0.00049 0.90 0.90 6.34 0.288 5.71 3.29 0.00049 0.00049 0.90 0.90 1.48

LL LL
Span LDF Δcx, LDF Δmx,
mm mm
Ext 0.756 11.80 0.244 6.44

Int 0.713 3.01 0.288 0.70

49
5.2. Time-Dependent (Long-Term) Deflections (Δlt)

The additional time-dependent (long-term) deflection resulting from creep and shrinkage (Δcs) may be estimated
as follows:

cs    (sust )Inst PCA Notes on ACI 318-11 (9.5.2.5 Eq. 4)

The total time-dependent (long-term) deflection is calculated as:

(total )lt  (sust )Inst  (1   )  [(total )Inst  (sust )Inst ] CSA A23.3-04 (N9.8.2.5)

Where:

(sust )Inst  Immediate (instantaneous) deflection due to sustained load, in.


  ACI 318-14 (24.2.4.1.1)
 1  50  '

(total )lt  Time-dependent (long-term) total delfection, in.

(total )Inst  Total immediate (instantaneous) deflection, in.

For the exterior span

 = 2, consider the sustained load duration to be 60 months or more. ACI 318-14 (Table 24.2.4.1.3)

 ' = 0, conservatively.

2
  2
1  50  0

cs  2 12.07  24.14 mm

 total lt  12.07  1  2   23.87  12.07  48.01 mm

Table 8 shows long-term deflections for the exterior and interior spans for the analysis in the x-direction, for
column and middle strips.

Table 8 - Long-Term Deflections

Column Strip
Span (Δsust)Inst, mm λΔ Δcs, mm (Δtotal)Inst, mm (Δtotal)lt, mm
Exterior 12.07 2.000 24.14 23.87 48.01
Interior 3.33 2.000 6.66 6.34 13.00
Middle Strip
Exterior 6.63 2.000 13.26 13.07 26.33
Interior 0.78 2.000 1.56 1.48 3.04

50
6. spSlab Software Program Model Solution

spSlab program utilizes the Elastic Frame Method described and illustrated in details here for modeling, analysis
and design of two-way concrete floor slab systems. spSlab uses the exact geometry and boundary conditions
provided as input to perform an elastic stiffness (matrix) analysis of the equivalent frame taking into account the
torsional stiffness of the slabs framing into the column. It also takes into account the complications introduced by
a large number of parameters such as vertical and torsional stiffness of transverse beams, the stiffening effect of
drop panels, column capitals, and effective contribution of columns above and below the floor slab using the of
equivalent column concept (CSA A23.3-14 (13.8.2.6)).

spSlab Program models the elastic frame as a design strip. The design strip is, then, separated by spSlab into
column and middle strips. The program calculates the internal forces (Shear Force & Bending Moment), moment
and shear capacity vs. demand diagrams for column and middle strips, instantaneous and long-term deflection
results, and required flexural reinforcement for column and middle strips. The graphical and text results will be
provided from the spSlab model in a future revision to this document.

51
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53
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55
56
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58
59
60
61
62
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64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
7. Summary and Comparison of Design Results
Table 9 - Comparison of Moments obtained from Hand (EFM) and spSlab Solution (kN.m)
Hand (EFM) spSlab
Exterior Span
Exterior Negative* 310.1 312.3
Column Strip Positive 287.6 304.3
*
Interior Negative 773.7 771.7
Exterior Negative* 0.0 0.0
Middle Strip Positive 191.7 202.9
*
Interior Negative 164.1 163.7
Interior Span
*
Interior Negative 695.1 693.4
Column Strip
Positive 156.4 161.1
*
Interior Negative 147.4 147.1
Middle Strip
Positive 104.3 107.4
*
negative moments are taken at the faces of supports

Table 10 - Comparison of Reinforcement Results

Additional Reinforcement Total
Reinforcement
Provided for Unbalanced Reinforcement
Span Location Provided for Flexure
Moment Transfer* Provided
Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab
Exterior Span
Exterior
24-15M 24-15M n/a n/a 24-15M 24-15M
Negative
Column
Positive 21-15M 21-15M n/a n/a 21-15M 21-15M
Strip
Interior
37-15M 37-15M --- --- 37-15M 37-15M
Negative
Exterior
12-15M 12-15M n/a n/a 12-15M 12-15M
Negative
Middle
Positive 14-15M 14-15M n/a n/a 14-15M 14-15M
Strip
Interior
12-15M 12-15M n/a n/a 12-15M 12-15M
Negative
Interior Span
Column
Positive 12-15M 12-15M n/a n/a 12-15M 12-15M
Strip
Middle
Positive 12-15M 12-15M n/a n/a 12-15M 12-15M
Strip

72
 Table 11 - Comparison of One-Way (Beam Action) Shear Check Results
Vf @ dv, kN Vf @ drop panel, kN Vc @ dv , kN Vc @ drop panel, kN
Span
Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab
Exterior 576.6 577.2 449.4 439.2 1,506.4 1,587.2 1,465.2 1,465.2
Interior 502.8 503.9 375.6 365.8 1,506.4 1,587.2 1,465.2 1,465.2
*
xu calculated from the centerline of the left column for each span

Table 12 - Comparison of Two-Way (Punching) Shear Check Results (around Columns Faces)
b1, mm b2, mm bo, mm Vf, kN cAB, mm
Support
Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab
Exterior 666 832 832 832 2,164 2,164 465.6 515.5 205.0 205.0
Interior 832 832 832 832 3,328 3,328 1,159.8 1,190.6 416.0 416.0

Corner 666 666 666 666 1,332 1,332 253.9 272.9 166.5 166.5

Jc, mm4 γv Munb, kN.m vf, MPa vc, MPa

Support
Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab
Exterior 3.93×1010 3.93×1010 0.374 0.374 330.3 317.8 1.29 1.34 1.426 1.426
Interior 1.33×1011 1.33×1011 0.400 0.400 113.8 113.2 1.19 1.22 1.426 1.426
Corner 2.25×1010 2.25×1010 0.400 0.400 184.3 177.4 1.12 1.14 1.426 1.426

Table 13 - Comparison of Two-Way (Punching) Shear Check Results (around Drop Panels)

b1, mm b2, mm bo, mm Vf, kN cAB, mm

Support
Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab
Exterior 1,862 1,862 3,224 3,224 6,948 6,948 393.6 441.6 205.0 205.0

Interior 3,224 3,224 3,224 3,224 12,896 12,896 1,030.6 1059.2 416.0 416.0

Corner 1,862 1,862 1,862 1,862 3,724 3,724 214.4 231.9 166.5 166.5

Jc, mm4 γv Munb, kN.m vf, MPa vc, MPa

Support
Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab
11 11
Exterior 5.8×10 5.8×10 N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. 0.25 0.28 1.1 1.1
12 12
Interior 5.01×10 5.01×10 N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. 0.36 0.37 1.0 1.0
11 11
Corner 3.03×10 3.03×10 N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. 0.24 0.28 1.19 1.19
Note: Shear stresses from spSlab are higher than hand calculations since it considers the load effects beyond the column centerline known in
the model as right/left cantilevers. This small increase is often neglected in simplified hand calculations like the one used here.

73
 Table 14 - Comparison of Immediate Deflection Results (mm)
Column Strip
D D+LLsus D+LLfull LL
Span
Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab
Exterior 12.07 11.07 12.07 11.07 23.87 20.46 11.80 9.39
Interior 3.33 4.15 3.33 4.15 6.34 8.03 3.01 3.88
Middle Strip
D D+LLsus D+LLfull LL
Span
Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab
Exterior 6.63 5.34 6.63 5.34 13.07 9.26 6.44 3.92
Interior 0.78 1.32 0.78 1.32 1.48 2.78 0.70 1.47

Table 15 - Comparison of Time-Dependent Deflection Results

Column Strip
λΔ Δcs, mm Δtotal, mm
Span
Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab
Exterior 2.0 2.0 24.14 22.15 48.01 42.61
Interior 2.0 2.0 6.66 8.31 13.00 16.34
Middle Strip
λΔ Δcs, mm Δtotal, mm
Span
Hand spSlab Hand spSlab Hand spSlab
Exterior 2.0 2.0 13.26 10.68 26.33 19.93
Interior 2.0 2.0 1.48 2.63 3.04 5.41

In all of the hand calculations illustrated above, the results are in close or exact agreement with the automated
analysis and design results obtained from the spSlab model.

74
8. Conclusions & Observations

8.1. One-Way Shear Distribution to Slab Strips

In one-way shear checks above, shear is distributed uniformly along the width of the design strip (9 m).
StructurePoint finds it necessary sometimes to allocate the one-way shears with the same proportion moments
are distributed to column and middle strips.

spSlab allows the one-way shear check using two approaches: 1) calculating the one-way shear capacity using
the average slab thickness and comparing it with the total factored one-shear load as shown in the hand
calculations above; 2) distributing the factored one-way shear forces to the column and middle strips and
comparing it with the shear capacity of each strip as illustrated in the following figures. An engineering
judgment is needed to decide which approach to be used.

Figure 23a – Distributing Shear to Column and Middle Strips (spSlab Input)

75
Figure 23b – Distributed Column and Middle Strip Shear Force Diagram (spSlab Output)

76
Figure 23c – Tabulated Shear Force & Capacity at Critical Sections (spSlab Output)

77
8.2. Two-Way Concrete Slab Analysis Methods

A slab system can be analyzed and designed by any procedure satisfying equilibrium and geometric
compatibility. Three established methods are widely used. The requirements for two of them are described in
detail in CSA A.23.3-14 Clause 13.

Direct Design Method (DDM) is an approximate method and is applicable to two-way slab concrete floor
systems that meet the stringent requirements of CSA A.23.3-14 (13.9.1). In many projects, however, these
requirements limit the usability of the Direct Design Method significantly.

The Elastic Frame Method (EFM) does not have the limitations of DDM. It requires more accurate analysis
methods that, depending on the size and geometry can prove to be long, tedious, and time-consuming.

StucturePoint’s spSlab software program solution utilizes the EFM to automate the process providing
considerable time-savings in the analysis and design of two-way slab systems as compared to hand solutions
using DDM or EFM.

Finite Element Method (FEM) is another method for analyzing reinforced concrete slabs, particularly useful
for irregular slab systems with variable thicknesses, openings, and other features not permissible in DDM or
EFM. Many reputable commercial FEM analysis software packages are available on the market today such as
spMats. Using FEM requires critical understanding of the relationship between the actual behavior of the
structure and the numerical simulation since this method is an approximate numerical method. The method is
based on several assumptions and the operator has a great deal of decisions to make while setting up the model
and applying loads and boundary conditions. The results obtained from FEM models should be verified to
confirm their suitability for design and detailing of concrete structures.

The following table shows a general comparison between the DDM, EFM and FEM. This table covers general
limitations, drawbacks, advantages, and cost-time efficiency of each method where it helps the engineer in
deciding which method to use based on the project complexity, schedule, and budget.

78
Applicable
Concrete Slab Analysis Method
CSA
Limitations/Applicability
A23.3-14 DDM EFM FEM
Provision (Hand) (Hand//spSlab) (spMats)
Panels shall be rectangular, with ratio of
13.8.1.1
13.9.1.1
longer to shorter panel dimensions, measured  
center-to-center supports, not exceed 2.
For a panel with beams between supports on
13.8.1.1 all sides, slab-to-beam stiffness ratio shall be
13.9.1.1 satisfied for beams in the two perpendicular  
directions.
Column offset shall not exceed 20% of the
13.8.1.1
13.9.1.1
span in direction of offset from either axis  
between centerlines of successive columns
13.8.1.1 The reinforcement is placed in an orthogonal
13.9.1.1 grid.  
Minimum of three continuous spans in each
13.9.1.2
direction 
Successive span lengths measured center-to-
13.9.1.3 center of supports in each direction shall not 
differ by more than one-third the longer span
13.9.1.4 All loads shall be due to gravity only 
All loads shall be uniformly distributed over
13.9.1.4
an entire panel (qf) 
Factored live load shall not exceed two times
13.9.1.4
the factored dead load 

13.10.6 Structural integrity steel detailing   

13.10.10 Openings in slab systems   

8.2 Concentrated loads Not permitted  
Engineering judgment required
13.8.4.1 Live load arrangement (Load Patterning) Not required Required
based on modeling technique
Reinforcement for unbalanced slab moment Moments @ Moments @ Engineering judgment required
13.10.2*
transfer to column (Msc) support face support centerline based on modeling technique
Irregularities (i.e. variable thickness, non- Not permitted Engineering Engineering judgment required
13.8.2 prismatic, partial bands, mixed systems, judgment required
support arrangement, etc.)
Complexity Low Average Complex to very complex

Design time/costs Fast Limited Unpredictable/Costly

Conservative Somewhat Unknown - highly dependent on
(see detailed conservative modeling assumptions:
comparison with 1. Linear vs. non-linear
Design Economy spSlab output) 2. Isotropic vs non-isotropic
3. Plate element choice
4. Mesh size and aspect ratio
5. Design & detailing features
Very limited Limited geometry Limited guidance non-standard
applications application (user dependent).
General (Drawbacks)
Required significant engineering
judgment
Very limited Detailed analysis is Unlimited applicability to handle
analysis is required required or via complex situations permissible by
General (Advantages)
software the features of the software used
(e.g. spSlab) (e.g. spMats)
*
The unbalanced slab moment transferred to the column Msc (Munb) is the difference in slab moment on either side of a column at a specific joint.
In DDM only moments at the face of the support are calculated and are also used to obtain M sc (Munb). In EFM where a frame analysis is used,
moments at the column center line are used to obtain Msc (Munb).

79