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Rapt 12

Rapt-12
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
327 views16 pages

Rapt 12

Rapt-12
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 16

RAPT User Manual Copyright PCDC

Then the user can then move around the graph using the Scroll Bars or the movement keys. and buttons will
still move the cursor to the next and previous points. If the point is outside the viewable area it, the area of graph
shown will adjust automatically to position the requested point near the left of the View Window.

Clicking this button again or on the or buttons will return the Window to Span Zoom Mode.

Clicking will change the mode to Span Zoom Mode in the span in which the cursor is positioned in the Select Zoom
mode.

Show/Hide information dialog:- Not available in frame graphics windows.

Section Graphics Windows


The section graphics windows serve two functions

1. Focus in Data Windows:- The section graphics windows show representations of the data in the current
data row in the Data Grid. See the discussion on what is shown in each case in the help section for each
section of concrete frame input.
2. Focus in Frame Graphics Window:- Shows the complete frame cross section shape immediately each side
of the cursor location. The cross-sections are shown as viewing from the right end of the frame. In most
cases there is graphical interaction between graphics in this window and the data. See the discussion on what
interaction is available in each case in the help section for each section of concrete frame input.

The section graphics windows show concrete sections in two equal sized windows to a consistent vertical/horizontal
scale. The grid scale is printed in the top right corner of each section window and by default is equal in both directions
and the scale factor is 1. This grid dimension will always apply for the direction which controls the scale in the window.
For a wide flattish shape in the window the horizontal direction will control the scale and the horizontal grid dimension
will always be equal to the scale dimension. For tall thin shapes, the vertical direction will normally control and the
vertical grid dimension will always be equal to the scale dimension.
The centre splitter can be used to adjust the relative sizes of the two section windows.

The vertical axis line is the column/support centreline while the horizontal axis line is the zero depth datum.
If the mouse cursor is held steady over a and individual element shape in the section windows (do not click), an
information window which defines the dimensions of that shape will appear as shown below. The cursor can be moved
to each element comprising the overall shape to view the information for each element. Depths are positive
downwards and widths are positive to the right. The information given is shown graphically below.

Section Graphics Window Toolbar

7.2.3 Frame Definition and Design: Frame Shape Screen Layout 3


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Reset Splitter and Scale:- Resets the window splitter location to divide the section windows equally within their
space and resets the scale factor to 1

Set Scale Factor:- Allows the designer to set a scale factor that controls the ratio of the
vertical/horizontal scale. A value of 2 will result in a distorted scale of 4:1 with the grid dimension in the non-
controlling direction being divided by 4. The first diagram below shows the slab with a scale factor of 1 with the grids
1000mm in both directions. The second diagram below shows the same slab with a scale factor of 4. The horizontal
grids are still 1000mm but the vertical grids are 1000 / 4 = 250mm each.

7.2.3 Frame Definition and Design: Frame Shape Screen Layout 4


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7.2.3.1 Span Data

Figure 7.2.3.1 Span Data Screen

Refer to 7.2.3 Frame Shape Screen Layout for discussion of the general principles of the RAPT Frame Screen layout
and to 4.5.1 General Screen Layout Principles for discussion on the general layout features of windows in RAPT.

This Input Screen is used to define general structural span and slab shapes. For more complicated cross sections,
users should first enter their basic data in this screen and then refine the structure using Layers (7.2.3.6), Steps
(7.2.3.7) and Elements (7.2.3.8).
The screen is set up with the span numbers down the left hand side and zero's for all data required. A left cantilever is
identified by the term LC and a right cantilever by RC. When no cantilever exists, RAPT replaces the cantilever names
with LE (left end) and RE (right end). The user can input a length in these fields which defines the location of the left
and right slab ends from the respective column centre lines. This value can be negative and the slab can edge can be
placed as far into the adjoining span as the front face of the column. The concrete shape in these end sections is a
continuation of the shape in the adjoining spans. If ends are defined, tendons can extend into them and they are
included in the analysis as cantilevers. No design is carried out in these end sections. The location of the ends affects
the shear perimeter in the punching shear calculations.

Graphic Interaction
Clicking the left mouse button in a span in the graphics will automatically move the current row in the data to the row
for that span. The section views will show the cross-section shape either side of the selected point.

Select a row in the data and the section graphics will show the data for that row in section. See below.

Section Views
When the program focus is in the spans data view, the Section Graphics Windows will show the slab shape as it is
defined in this view, at the left (left panel) and right (right panel) ends of the span in which the cursor is positioned.
Nothing is shown for Left Ends and Right Ends.

Ctrl + D, Ctrl + R
Refer to 4.4.4 Cell Repeating for a general discussion on repeating data automatically in other data cells. A few specific
applications of the key apply to this screen when a range of repeat data cells is not selected. These are listed below
(i) Span Lengths:- This column is made up of two fields. These are

a) spans and

7.2.3.1 Frame Definition and Design: Span Data 1


RAPT User Manual Copyright PCDC
b) cantilevers/slab overhangs. (LC, RC, 0 and Number of spans + 1)
When the cursor is on a span number (excluding cantilevers and slab overhangs) the highlighted
figure will be defaulted to all other blank spans, making all the spans the same length. No
information will be placed in the cantilever/span overhang fields. Likewise when the cursor is in the
cantilever/slab overhang field, key combination will default the highlighted figure to the other blank
cantilever/slab overhang field.

(ii) Panel Width Left:- When a value is placed in the current cell and the repeat key combination is pressed, the
value will be repeated in all zero cells in both the left and right panel width columns.

(iii) Panel Width Right, External Edge Distance Right, Column Strip Width Right:- When a repeat key
combination is used on a current cell with a value of zero in it, the data will be copied from the similar data column for
the left end of the span.

Spans Toolbar

The special Spans Toolbar allows the user control over adding and deleting spans and cantilevers. Only the toolbar
buttons available at any time will be active for use. The remainder will be shown in background colour.
The buttons available are

Add Spans: Adds spans at the current cursor location. All spans at and to the right of this span will be moved to
the right. This button will only be available when the cursor is in a span or right cantilever/end. It will never be
available at the left cantilever/end. The user is presented with the following dialog box to define the number of spans
to be added.

When spans are added, a default set of data will be inserted by RAPT based on the joining spans. All data associated
with spans will be updated to suit this new data. This will include prestress, loads, reinforcement, steps and elements
that are affected. Wherever data has been added/modified by RAPT the cell background colours will be modified to
indicate that changes have been made (refer Section 4.4.3). The Tree Control will indicate views that have changes
made with similar colour changes. The user should then go through all the screens where changes have been made to
check and modify the data as appropriate.

Delete Spans: Deletes selected spans. To delete a group of spans, the user must select a group of whole data
rows. The selection does not have to be continuous. This button will only be available when the cursor is in a span or
when a group of spans has been selected. It cannot be used to convert cantilevers to ends.
The user is presented with the following Dialog nominating which spans will be deleted and asking which column to
delete.

When spans are deleted, RAPT will adjust other affected data to suit the changed span arrangement. The main effects
will be in prestress, loads, reinforcement, steps and elements. Any step, etc that is within a deleted span will be
deleted. Loads prestress tendons and reinforcing bars that extend outside the deleted spans will be modified to suit
and the cell background colours will be modified to indicate that changes have been made (refer Section 4.4.3).

Add Left Cantilever: Adds a cantilever at the left end. Effects on other data are as for adding spans.

Remove Left Cantilever: Removes a cantilever at the left end and replaces it with a Left End. Effects on other
data are as for deleting spans.

Add Right Cantilever: Adds a cantilever at the right end. Effects on other data are as for adding spans

7.2.3.1 Frame Definition and Design: Span Data 2


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Remove Right Cantilever: Removes a cantilever at the right end and replaces it with a Right End. Effects on
other data are as for deleting spans.

Recalculate Strip Width: Recalculates the column and middle strip widths, for two way slabs based on strip
design methods, to the code calculated values. If no span selection is made, the values for all spans will be
recalculated. If a span or group of spans is selected, the widths for those spans only will be recalculated.

Data Definition
Figure 7.2.3.1 shows all of the data columns available in this input screen. The data required in this screen varies
depending on the structure type selected in the General Screen. Only those columns requiring data will be available for
input for each case. Fig 7.2.3.2a -7.2.3.2c show the different data sets for different structure types. 7.2.3.2d shows
the extra data items that are added for External Panels.

Figure 7.2.3.2a Span Data Screen Headers - 1-way slab full width, 1-way beam system

Figure 7.2.3.2b Span Data Screen Header s- 1-way slab Nominal Width

Figure 7.2.3.2c Span Data Screen Headers - 2-way, 2-way beam system

Figure 7.2.3.2d Span Data Screen Headers - 2-way, 2-way beam system - External Panel

Span Length
The span length is measured from centre to centre of columns. Cantilever lengths are measured from the cantilever
edge to the column centreline and must extend past the end of the columns, otherwise a Left/Right End should be
selected. In end overhangs (i) The concrete shape in these end sections is a continuation of the shape in the adjoining
spans. If the user wants to vary the shape a cantilever must be nominated or steps, etc can be added in the end
overhangs. (ii) The length can be negative allowing the slab end to be placed at any point up to the inside face of the
column.

Slab Depth

The underside of the slab may step at the centre line of each column or at the faces of a transverse beam or band. If it
varies either side of a longitudinal beam then the user should calculate an average value or users can use the
Elements Input (7.2.3.8) to model the step correctly. Slab depth cannot equal 0 in any span. If the user wishes to run
a beam without any slab, the user should input a nominal slab depth and restrict the one way width to the beam width
by overriding the default figure.

The top of the slab as defined in this Input Screen is the DATUM for vertical measurements.

Slab Design Width

For a One Way Slab- Nominal Width a different slab design width may be input in each span. The Slab Design Width is
used for all self weight and design calculations. In this way the self-weight of the slab need not be input manually by
the user unless the load contributing area is not able to be defined in the RAPT input. All output results except
Punching Shear will be based on this slab width.

Panel Width Left/Right End of Span

Define the transverse dimension of the slab at each column centre-line (left column and right column) in each span
(see Figure 7.2.3.3 and Figure 7.2.3.4). This allows the user to input a tapered slab (in plan) or steps in the slab width
at the column centre-lines. These dimensions are not used to calculate the torsional beam stiffness for the equivalent
column calculation (see Transverse Column Spacing in Columns data).

7.2.3.1 Frame Definition and Design: Span Data 3


RAPT User Manual Copyright PCDC

Figure 7.2.3.3 Panel Width Dimensions


Note: Panel width should be input as:

(i) one-way slabs: At least the one-way width in each span. The self-weight and other load calculations for Panel
Loads will be based on the one way width. For RAPT to default the correct value of Transverse Column Spacing in the
Column Input Screen, the overall transverse width should be entered here.
(ii) beams: The overall transverse panel dimension at each column which the user considers to be the area of slab
contributing self-weight loading to the beam. Other load calculations for Panel Loads will be based on the Panel Width
(including the effects of any steps defined by the user.

(iii) two way slabs: The overall transverse panel dimension at each column which the user wishes to design. In this
case self-weight and other load calculations for Panel Loads will be based on the panel widths.

(iv) external panels the total panel width will normally be equal to half the distance to the first internal column line
plus the distance from the column centre-line to the outside edge of the slab or beam. The latter is referred to as the
external edge distance.

External Edge Distance


Left/Right End of Span The external edge distance is the perpendicular overhang (on the outside of the building) of the
slab or beam past the centre-line of the columns at each end of the span. [See Figure 7.2.3.4] The concrete section at
the column centre line is assumed to extend to this point. A negative value can also be specified.

7.2.3.1 Frame Definition and Design: Span Data 4


RAPT User Manual Copyright PCDC

Figure 7.2.3.4 External Slab Dimensions


Values can only be entered in this field if external panel is specified in the General screen.

Column Strip Width Left/Right End of Span


This option is only accessible when a two way slab has been specified. The value entered defines the Column Strip
width. The Middle Strip width is then calculated as (Panel Width - Column Strip Width). The Column Strip Width is
specified at the start and end of the span. This allows for a linearly varying column strip width along the span. More
complicated Column Strip Widths can be entered using Steps Input. The values in these fields will default to the value
defined in the relevant design code. It will be dependent on both span lengths and panel widths. Once these figures
are calculated, designers may wish to rationalize the values where widths vary at column centrelines.

7.2.3.1 Frame Definition and Design: Span Data 5


RAPT User Manual Copyright PCDC

7.2.3.2 Column Data

Refer to 7.2.3 Frame Shape Screen Layout for discussion of the general principles of the RAPT Frame Screen layout
and to 4.5.1 General Screen Layout Principles for discussion on the general layout features of windows in RAPT.
This screen is used to define the support types and details in RAPT.

The screen is set up with the support/column numbers down the left side and the data defining each support across
the page. Supports can be
1. Knife Edge

2. Fixed support

3. Rectangular or Circular Columns above and/or below

Graphic Interaction
Clicking the left mouse button within the half span either side of a support/column in the graphics will automatically
move the current row in the data to the row for that support/column. The section views will show the cross-section
shape either side of the selected point.
Select a row in the data and the section graphics will show the cross-sections through the column above (left window)
and column below (right window).

Section Views
When the program focus is in the columns data view, the Section Graphics Windows will show the cross-sections
through the column above (left window) and column below (right window) if either has been defined.

Ctrl + D, Ctrl + R
Refer to 4.4.4 Cell Repeating for a general discussion on repeating data automatically in other data cells. A few specific
applications of the key apply to this screen when a range of repeat data cells is not selected. These are listed below

If the repeat key combination is pressed when the focus is in a blank cell (zero value) in

1. Column Length Above:- The values from Column Width Above will be copied into this data column
2. Column Height Below:- The values from Column Height Above will be copied into this data column
3. Column Width Below:- The values from Column Width Above will be copied into this data column
4. Column Length Below:- The values from Column length Below will be copied into this data column

7.2.3.2 Frame Definition and Design: Column Data 1


RAPT User Manual Copyright PCDC
These values will only be copied to columns that have a height.

Data Definition

Column Grid Reference


RAPT allows the designer to define the grid reference number of any support point to allow the designer to match the
grid numbers in RAPT to those on the drawings for the member/panel being designed. This is a text field and the
length of the text string is limited to 256 characters. RAPT will only use the first 3 characters in the graphics and text
output. The Column Grid Reference will default to the column/support number e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 for a 4 span frame.
When spans are inserted, RAPT will match the new Column Grid Reference values created with the existing values if
there is a simple logical consecutive pattern for all of the support locations in a frame. Otherwise, the column numbers
of the inserted columns will be inserted as the default.

When spans are deleted, RAPT will match the new Column Grid Reference values with the existing values if there is a
simple logical consecutive pattern for all of the support locations in a frame.

Logical consecutive patterns are

1. consecutive numbers - e.g 5, 6, 7, 8, 9


2. consecutive letter - e.g. D, E, F, G, H. When Z reached, the sequence will continue starting at AA, AB etc.
3. consecutive letters - e.g. BD, BE, BF, BG, BH. When BZ reached, the sequence will continue starting at CA,
CB etc, or ABD, ABE, ABF, ABG, ABH. When ABZ reached, the sequence will continue starting at ACA, ACB
etc.

In input data screens where a reference column number is required to define a location, the Column Grid Reference is
used, not the column number. To input a new value, the Column Grid reference must be typed in full or the column
number can be used preceded by a # symbol e.g. #5 for column number 5. When the value is accepted, it will be
converted to the Column Grid Reference and this will be shown as the Reference Column. In the default case, 5 or #5
will both represent the column grid reference for column 5.

Support Type
The type of support required at this support location. Types available are

1. Knife Edge - No moment restraint. Vertical restraint is always provided and horizontal restraint is provided if
Braced Column selected at this location.
2. Fixed Support - Full moment restraint provided at this column as well as vertical and horizontal force
restraint.
3. Column - The defined columns above and/or below provide the moment restraint. If all of the column
dimensions are defined as zero it will automatically be defined as a Knife Edge support. Vertical restraint is
always provided and horizontal restraint is provided if Braced Column selected at this location.

Column Height Above


The height of the column from the top of slab datum level at the floor being analysed to the centroid of the concrete
section in the floor above (see diagram below). The floor above is assumed to have the same concrete section as the
floor being analysed.

Column Diameter Above


The diameter of the column if a circular column is to be defined above. To change to a rectangular column, delete the
circular column dimension.

Column Width Above


The width of a rectangular column above (c2 on diagram below). To change to a circular column, delete the
rectangular column dimensions.

Column Length Above


The length of a rectangular column above in the design direction (c1 on diagram below). To change to a circular
column, delete the rectangular column dimensions.

7.2.3.2 Frame Definition and Design: Column Data 2


RAPT User Manual Copyright PCDC

Column Height below


The height of the column from the top of slab datum level at the floor being analysed to the centroid of the concrete
section in the floor below (see diagram below) if the column end is defined as fixed or to the top of a footing if the
column end is defined as pinned. The floor below is assumed to have the same concrete section as the floor being
analysed if the pinned end option is selected.

Column Diameter Below


The diameter of the column if a circular column is to be defined below. To change to a rectangular column, delete the
circular column dimension.

Column Width below


The width of a rectangular column below (c2 on diagram below). To change to a circular column, delete the
rectangular column dimensions.

Column Length below


The length of a rectangular column below in the design direction (c1 on diagram below). To change to a circular
column, delete the rectangular column dimensions.

Transverse Column spacing


This is the average length of the transverse torsional member at each column which spans from this column to the
columns on either side and is used for the calculation of the column properties (as distinct from the panel width which
may vary from the transverse column spacing). RAPT defaults this figure as described below.

1. The default figure is only input by RAPT to make input easier in cases where the panel width is constant. If
the panel width varies the user must change the default values to suit their needs.
2. For an internal panel RAPT will automatically insert the average panel width dimension at each column as the
default. This will automatically cover the normal cases where the panel width is constant. For an internal
panel the transverse column spacing should equal the average of the transverse column spacing on either
side of a column.
3. For an external panel the transverse column spacing defaults to 2 x (Panel Width - External Edge Distance).
For an external panel the transverse column spacing should equal the distance to the first internal column
line.
4. If a one-way frame is being input then the transverse column spacing must be at least equal to the one way
width even if no columns are input.
5. For beams and two way slabs the whole column inertia is applied in the frame analysis. For one-way slab
structures the stiffness contribution of the column is proportioned to the ratio of the one-way width being run
to the transverse column spacing.

Capital Depth below deepest section


RAPT allows the designer to define a column capital or head at the top of the column below. This is defined as a depth
below the deepest concrete soffit at either face of the column. The projection horizontally (outstand) is assumed the
same on all four sides of the column as the vertical projection. This implies that the capital has a 45 degree taper and
is of the same shape as the column.

Pin Base below


The base of any column below the slab may be either fixed or pinned. RAPT input to the setting in 5.2 Design
Standard->General. Columns above the slab are assumed to be fixed ended under all circumstances.

Percentage Column Stiffness


RAPT calculates a stiffness for each column. Users can then further modify this by specifying a % value of the
calculated column stiffness. This portion of the column stiffness is applied to the frame analysis. The range of values
allowed is 0% to 999%. Care should be taken in modifying this value especially for punching shear calculations.
Redistribution of moments away form a column that is failing in punching shear is not recommended.

Braced frame at this column


If the frame is braced at a column, RAPT will place horizontal pin supports (vertical rollers) at that column line of the

7.2.3.2 Frame Definition and Design: Column Data 3


RAPT User Manual Copyright PCDC
frame to prevent side sway. RAPT can not know from the general input if the frame being designed is braced by other
members in the building such as shear walls so the designer must define this.

Column Shortening
RAPT gives the user the option to allow for the effects of Column shortening at each column. If Column Shortening is
to be restrained, RAPT place a vertical restraint at each selected column beam node in the Frame Analysis. Thus no
axial shortening can occur. The column shortening can, at times, have a large effect on moment distribution especially
if high loads and columns of varying lengths or axial stiffness are input into a run. Where a concrete frame or the
loading is not symmetric, allowing column shortening is normally the more accurate solution.

Always be careful when mixing knife edge supports and columns at different support locations as knife edge supports
do not allow vertical movement while columns do. Knife-edge supports are often defined to represent walls and
transverse beam supports. It is often better to model these as a column/wall but with zero stiffness to stop them from
attracting moments but to still allow for the support settlement.

Punching Shear Check required


RAPT will carry out punching shear calculations for all columns unless told not to here. There are situations where
punching shear calculations should be done for beam systems, especially band beams, and there may also be
situations where local beams may negate the need for punching shear design in slab designs. These decisions are left
to the designer by RAPT. The default setting is always for punching shear calculations to be done at all columns. RAPT
will check the column shape in doing the calculations and, if the column width is greater than .8 times the panel width,
RAPT will assume a wall is present and ignore punching shear calculations in this case.

Transverse effective depth difference


If a punching shear check has been requested, the designer may define punching shear properties for the transverse
direction. Normally the effective depth in the transverse direction will be slightly different to allow reinforcement to
pass over or under the reinforcement in this direction. At the end columns in prestressed frames for internal panels,
the transverse tendons will be much higher in the slab than the longitudinal tendons thus requiring the input of an
increased effective depth in the transverse direction. Conversely, for prestressed external frames, the transverse
tendons will be much lower than the longitudinal tendons and a lower depth should be defined for them.
If a transverse effective depth difference is defined, RAPT will apply the longitudinal value calculated from the
reinforcement and tendons defined at a column to the front and back faces of the punching perimeter and the
transverse offset from this value to the side faces. An average effective depth will be reported in the output as

d = perimeter area / perimeter length.


The effective depth difference may be

1. A positive value if the transverse effective depth is higher than the longitudinal effective depth (transverse
reinforcement is above)
2. A negative value if the transverse effective depth is lower than the longitudinal effective depth (transverse
reinforcement is below)

Transverse v'c
For BS8110, CP65, CP2004, IS456/IS1343 and SABS0100, the designer can define the concrete punching shear
capacity in the transverse direction for each column. If a value is defined here, RAPT will apply the longitudinal value
calculated from the reinforcement and tendons defined at a column to the front and back faces of the punching
perimeter and the transverse punching shear value defined here to the side faces. Otherwise it will apply the
calculated value for the frame being designed to all faces of the punching shear perimeter.

Transverse prestress (P/A)


For AS3600, ACI318 and Eurocode 2, the designer can define the axial prestress in the transverse direction for each
column. If a value is defined here, RAPT will apply the longitudinal value calculated from the reinforcement and
tendons defined at a column to the front and back faces of the punching perimeter and the transverse punching shear
value defined here to the side faces. Otherwise it will apply the calculated value for the frame being designed to all
faces of the punching shear perimeter.

7.2.3.2 Frame Definition and Design: Column Data 4


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7.2.3.2 Frame Definition and Design: Column Data 5


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7.2.3.3 Beam Data

Refer to 7.2.3 Frame Shape Screen Layout for discussion of the general principles of the RAPT Frame Screen layout
and to 4.5.1 General Screen Layout Principles for discussion on the general layout features of windows in RAPT.

Graphic Interaction
Clicking the left mouse button in a span in the graphics will automatically move the current row in the data to the row
for that span. The section views will show the cross-section shape either side of the selected point.
Select a row in the data and the section graphics will show the data for that row in section. See below.

Section Views
When the program focus is in the beams data view, the Section Graphics Windows will show the slab shape as it is
defined in spans data and the beam shape as it is defined in this view for this span, at the left (left panel) and right
(right panel) ends of the span in which the cursor is positioned. Nothing is shown for Left Ends and Right Ends.

Ctrl + D, Ctrl + R
Refer to 4.4.4 Cell Repeating for a general discussion on repeating data automatically in other data cells.
If the repeat keys are used in the Beam Width (extreme surface) column of data in a data cell with a zero value, the
Beam Width at Slab will be copied into each Beam Width cell following the rules in 4.4.4 Cell Repeating.

Beams Toolbar

Recalculate Effective Width: Recalculates the effective flange widths for beams based on the code
requirements. If no span selection is made, the values for all spans will be recalculated. If a span or group of spans is
selected, the widths for those spans only will be recalculated.

Simple/Detailed: In this case, simple/detailed refers to the definition of the effective flange widths.

1. Simple: A single effective flange width is defined in each span


2. Detailed: Three separate effective flange widths are defined in each span, one for each moment zone. This
allows the definition of the effective flange widths required for Eurocode2 and HK CP2004. This option can be
selected for any design code but will be calculated by the method defined in these codes.

7.2.3.3 Frame Definition and Design: Beam Data 1


RAPT User Manual Copyright PCDC
Data Definition

Beam Depth
The Depth of the beam measured from the Top of Slab Datum. If the structural system has been defined as at least an
effective flange width must be defined in each span. If the beam depth is left as zero, the slab with a width equal to
the effective flange width will be used as the design section and should be made equal to the width the user considers
to best model the way in which the system will act..
A negative value of beam depth represents an upturn beam (see figure below). In this case the depth of the beam is
measured from the top of slab datum to the top of the beam.
Note:

1. Drop Panels are still placed on the underside of the slab if upturned beams are defined.
2. Users can not define a mixture of upturn and downturn beams. i.e. All beam depths must be positive or all
must be negative, not a mixture. To define a combination of upturned and downturned beams users should
use the extra 7.2.3.6 layer and 7.2.3.7 step input methods.

An upturn/downturn beam can be modelled by inputting an upturn beam and an extra 7.2.3.6 downturn layer or vice
versa (see below). The method of defining upturn beams with continuous drop panels to define a downturn beam is
not recommended by the authors.

Beam Width at Slab


The width of the beam at the bottom of the slab. For an upturn beam the width is taken at the top of the slab.

Beam Width
The width of the beam at the bottom of the beam. For an upturn beam the width is taken at the top of the beam.

Effective Flange Width


A different flange width may be defined in each span. As the web width at the slab is input by the user, RAPT defaults
the effective flange width to that defined by the various design standards. For an internal panel, T-beam action is
assumed. For an external panel the beam is defaulted as an L-beam. The flange widths may be modified if desired.

Some codes require a more complex calculation of effective flange width, resulting in three different widths in each
span, one for each moment zone in the span. In Eurocode2 and HK CP2004, this more complex effective flange width
is based on the lo dimensions shown in the diagram below. To define this pattern, RAPT requires the definition of two
lengths and three widths in each span as defined below. If the Detailed option is selected in the toolbar, the effective
flange widths will be calculated using this method. This is the default for designs for Eurocode2 and HK CP2004.

7.2.3.3 Frame Definition and Design: Beam Data 2


RAPT User Manual Copyright PCDC

Length of Left Effective Flange Width Zone


The length of the left end effective flange width zone in this span. Defaults to .15 of the span length if there is
continuity or a column at the left end of the span. Zero for a left cantilever and at ends with no moment restraint and
the length of the cantilever for a right cantilever.

Width of Left Effective Flange Width Zone


The effective flange width over the length of the length of the left moment zone.

Width of Centre Effective Flange Width Zone


The effective flange width over the length of the length of the centre moment zone.

Length of Right Effective Flange Width Zone


The length of the right end effective flange width zone in this span. Defaults to .15 of the span length if there is
continuity or a column at the right end of the span. The length of the cantilever for a left cantilever and zero for a right
cantilever and at ends with no moment restraint.

Width of Right Effective Flange Width Zone


The effective flange width over the length of the length of the right moment zone.

Note:

1. RAPT will check that the effective width that it calculates is less than the smaller of the transverse panel
widths.
2. The flange widths are used for all strength and inertia calculations. The self-weight in a span is based upon
the panel width defined in the Spans input screen except for one way slabs in which the Slab Design Width is
used. In this way the self-weight of the slab need not be input manually by the user unless the load
contributing area is not able to be defined in the RAPT input.
3. If the beam depth equals the slab depth in a span then the flange width defaults to the beam width.

7.2.3.3 Frame Definition and Design: Beam Data 3


RAPT User Manual Copyright PCDC

7.2.3.3 Frame Definition and Design: Beam Data 4

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