DESIGN OF REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAM

UNIT NO 2: DESIGN OF REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAM

INTRODUCTION
Reinforced concrete beam design consists primarily of producing member details which
will adequately resist the ultimate bending moments, shear forces and torsion moments.
At the same time serviceability requirements must be considered to ensure that the
member will behave satisfactorily under working loads. It is difficult to separate these
two criteria; hence the design procedure consists of a series of interrelated steps and
checks. Three basic design stages;

1. preliminary analysis and member sizing

2. detailed analysis and design of reinforcement
3. serviceability calculations.

Design and detailing of the bending reinforcement must allow for factors such as
anchorage bond between the steel and concrete. The area of the tensile bending
reinforcement also affects the subsequent design of the shear and torsion
reinforcement. Arrangement of reinforcement is constrained both by the requirements
of the codes of practice for concrete structures and by practical considerations
such as construction tolerances, clearance between bars and available bar sizes and
length. Many of the requirements for correct detailing are illustrated in the examples
which deal with the design of typical beams.

All calculations should be based on the effective span of a beam which is given as
follows:

1. A simply supported beam - the smaller of the distances between the centers of
bearings, or the clear distance between supports plus the effective depth.
2. A continuous beam - the distance between centers of supports.
3. A cantilever beam - the length to the face of the support plus half the effective
depth, or the distance to the centre of the support if the beam is continuous

LEARNING OUTCOMES
After completing the unit, you should be able to :
1. explains the requirement for reinforced concrete beam design.
2. checking calculate and check the stability of the beam in-term of size of beam,
moment, shear, deflection and cracking.
3. check the design serviceability and durability through out their design life.
4. perform singly and doubly reinforced concrete beam design.

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2.1 BENDING AND EQUIVALENT RECTANGULAR STRESS

BLOCK

For the design of most reinforced concrete structures it is usual to commence the
design for the conditions at the ultimate limit state, which is then followed by
checks to ensure that the structure is adequate for the serviceability limit state
without excessive deflection or cracking of the concrete. For this reason the
analysis in this chapter will first consider the simplified rectangular stress
block which can be used for the design at the ultimate limit state.

The rectangular stress block as shown in Figure 2.1 may be used in preference to
the more rigorous rectangular-parabolic stress block. This simplified stress
distribution will facilitate the analysis and provide more manageable design
equations, in particular when dealing with non-rectangular cross-sections.

It can be seen from the figure that the stress block does not extend to the neutral
axis of the section but has a depth s = 0.9 x. This will result in the centroid of the
stress block being s /2 = 0.45 x from the top edge of the section, which is very
nearly the same location as for the more precise rectangular-parabolic stress
block; also the areas of the two types of stress block are approximately equal.
Thus the moment of resistance of the section will be similar using calculations
based on either of the two tress blocks.

The design equations derived in sections 2.11 and 2.12 are for redistribution of
moments being not greater than 10 per cent. When greater moment
redistribution is applied, reference should be made to Cl. 3.4.4.5, BS 8110,
which describes how to modify the design equations.

Figure 2.1: Singly reinforced section with rectangular stress block

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2.1.1 SINGLY REINFORCED RECTANGULAR SECTION IN BENDING

Bending of the section will induce a resultant tensile force F st in the

reinforcing steel, and a resultant compressive force in the concrete
F cc which acts through the centroid of the effective area of concrete
in compression, as shown in Figure 2.1.

For equilibrium, the ultimate design moment, M, must be balanced

by the moment of resistance of the section so that

M = Fcc x z = Fst x z → (iv)

where z is the lever arm between the resultant forces Fcc and F st.
F cc = stress x area of action
= 0.45f cu x b.s → (v)
and
z = d - s/2 → (vi)
So that substituting in equation (iv)
M = 0.45 fcu .b.s x z

and replacing s from equation (vi)

M = 09fcu.b.(d - z)z → (vii)

Rearranging and substituting K= M/f c u bd 2

(zld 2 ) - (zld) + K/0.9 = 0

Solving this quadratic equation:

z = d {0.5 + √ (0.25 - K/0.9)} → (viii)

which is the equation in the code of practice BS 8110 for the lever
arm, z, of a singly reinforced section.

In equation (iv)

Fst = (fy / γm) As with γm = 1.15

= 0.87 fy.As
Hence
As = M / 0.87 fy.z → (ix)

Equations (viii) and (ix) can be used to design the area of tension
reinforcement in a concrete section to resist an ultimate moment,
M.

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Equation (viii) for the lever arm z can be used to set up a table and draw
a lever-arm curve as shown in Figure 2.2, and the curve may be
used to determine the lever arm, z instead of solving the equation
(viii).

The upper limit of the lever-arm curve, z = 0.95, is specified by BS

8110. The lower limit of z = 0.775d is when the depth of neutral
axis x = d/2, which is the maximum value allowed by the code for a
singly reinforced section in order to provide a ductile section which
will have a gradual tension type failure as already described. With z
= 0.775d from equation (vii):

M = 0.9fcub (d - 0.775d) x 0.775d

or
M = 0.156fcu bd2
as marked on the lever-arm diagram. The coefficient 0.156 has actually
been calculated using the concrete stress as more precisely equal to
0.67fcu / γm = 0.447fcu, instead of 0.45fcu.

When
M = K > 0.156
fcu.b.d2
compression reinforcement is also required to supplement the moment
of resistance of the concrete.

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The % values on the K axis mark the limit

for singly reinforced sections with moment
redistribution applied.

Figure 2.2: Lever-arm

Example 2.1:

The ultimate design moment to be resisted by section of beam

shown in Figure 2.3 is 185 kNm. Determine the area of tension
reinforcement (As) required given the characteristic material
strengths are fcu = 30 N/mm2, fy = 460 N/mm2.

b = 260 mm mm
b = 440

Figure 2.3: Design example – singly reinforced section

Solution :

K = M = 185 x 106 = 0.122 < 0.156

fcubd2 30(260)(440)2

therefore compression reinforcement is not required.

Lever arm;

z = d {0.5 + √ (0.25 – K/0.9)}

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= d {0.5 + √ (0.25 – 0.122/0.9)}
= 0.838d < 0.95d, so take z = 0.838d
z = 369 mm

(or alternatively , the value of z could be obtained from

the lever-arm diagram, Figure 2.2)

As = M / 0.87fy.z = 185 x 106 / (0.87x 460)(369)

= 1253 mm2

2.1.2 DOUBLY REINFORCED RECTANGULAR SECTION

It should be noted that the equations in this section have been derived
for the case where the reduction in moment at redistribution is not
greater than 10%.

From the section dealing with the analysis of a singly reinforced section
when

M > 0.156.fcu.b.d2

the design ultimate moment exceeds the moment of the concrete and
therefore compression reinforcement is required. For this condition the depth
of neutral axis, x is not more than 0.5d, the maximum value allowed by the BS
8110 in order to ensure a tension failure with a ductile section.

Therefore;

z = d – (s / 2) = d – (0.9 x /2)
= d – (0.9 x 0.5 d / 2)
= 0.775d

For the equilibrium of the section in Figure 2.4,

Fst = Fcc + Fsc → (x)

so that with the reinforcement at yield

0.87 fy.As = 0.45 fcu .b.s + 0.87 fy.As’ → (xi)

where; s = 0.9x,

0.87 fy.As = 0.45 fcu .b( 0.9x) + 0.87 fy.As’

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0.87 fy.As = 0.405 f cu .b.x + 0.87 fy.As’ → (xii)

then;
x = ( 0.87 fy.As - 0.87 fy.As’) / 0.405 fcu .b → (xiii)

Taking moments about the centroid of thee steel, As

M = Fcc x z + Fsc x z1
= 0.405 fcu .b. x x (d - 0.45 x ) + 0.87 fy.As’(d- d’)

where, x = 0.5d,

M = 0.405 fcu .b.(0.5d) x [d - 0.45(0.5d)] + 0.87 fy.As’(d- d’)

= 0.156fcu bd2 + 0.87 fy.As’(d- d’)
= Mu + 0.87 fy.As’(d- d’) → (xiv)

From equation (v),

As’ = M – Mu / 0.87 fy(d- d’) → (xv)

or
As’ = (K –K’)fcu bd2 / 0.87 fy(d- d’)

From equation (iii), multiplying both sides of equation (iii) by z = 0.775 d and
x = 0.5d;

0.87 fy.As.z = 0.405 f cu .b.x.z + 0.87 fy.As’.z

0.87 fy.As.z = 0.405 f cu .b.(0.5d).(0.775d) + 0.87 fy.As’.z
So;
As = 0.156fcu bd2 / 0.87 fy.z + As’ → (xvi)
or

As =
K’fcu bd2 / 0.87
fy.z + As’

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Figure 2.4: Section with compression reinforcement

Example 2.2:

The section shown Figure 2.5 is to resist an ultimate design

moment of 285 kNm. The characteristic materials strength are fcu =
30 N/mm2, fy = 460 N/mm2. Determine the area of reinforcement
required.

b = 440 mm
b = 260 mm

d’ = 50 mm

Figure 2.5: Design example – with compression reinforcement

Solution :

K = M = 285 x 106 = 0.189 > 0.156

fcubd2 30(260)(440)2

therefore compression reinforcement is required.

Where z = 0.775d.

For compression steel;

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As’ = (K – K’)fcu.b.d2 / 0.87fy.(d- d’)

= (0.189 – 0.156)(30)(260)(440)2 / (0.87x 460)(440 - 50)
= 319 mm2

For tension teel;

As = K’fcu.b.d2 / 0.87fyz + As’

= (0.156)(30)(260)(440)2 / (0.87)(460)(0.775)(440) + 319
= 1762 + 319
= 2045 mm2

2.2 PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS AND BEAM SIZING

The layout and size of members are very often controlled by architectural details,
and clearances for machinery and equipment. The engineer must either
check that the beam sizes are adequate to carry the loading, or
alternatively, decide on sizes that are adequate. The preliminary analysis need
only provide the maximum moments and hears in order to ascertain reasonable
dimensions. Beam dimensions required are;

1. cover to the reinforcement, (c)

2. breadth (b)
3. effective depth (d)
4. overall depth (h)

Adequate concrete cover is required to protect the reinforcement from corrosion

and image. The necessary cover depends on the grade of concrete, the exposure
of the beam, and the required fire resistance. Table 3.4 in BS 8110 gives the
nominal cover which should be provided to all reinforcement, including links. This
cover should additionally never be less than the bar size, and it may also need to
be increased to meet the fire resistance requirements of the Code of Practice, BS
8110.

The strength of a beam is affected considerably more by its depth than its
breadth. A suitable breadth may be a third to half of the depth; but it may be much
less for a deep beam and at other times wide shallow beams are used to
conserve headroom. The beam should not be to narrow; if it is much less than
200 mm wide there may be difficulty in providing adequate side cover and space
for the reinforcing bars.

Suitable dimensions for b and d can be decided by a few trial calculations as

follows;

1. For no compression reinforcement → M/fcu.bd2 ≤ 0.156

With compression reinforcement it can be shown that → M/fcubd2 ≥ 0.156

if the area of bending reinforcement is not to be excessive.

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2. Shear stress v = V/bd and v should never exceed 0.8√ fcu & or 5 N/mm2,
whichever is the lesser. To avoid congested shear reinforcement, v should
preferably be somewhat closer to half (or less) of the maximum allowed.

3. The span-effective depth ratio for spans not exceeding 10 m should be within
the basic values given below;

Cantilever beam 7
Simply supported beam 20
Continuous beam
26

which are modified according to M/bd2 and the service stress in the tension
reinforcement. For spans greater than 10 m, the basic ratios are multiplied by
10/span.

4. The overall depth of the beam is given by:

h = d + cover + t

where t = estimated distance from the outside of the link to the centre of the
tension bars (see Figure 2.6).

For example, with nominal sized 12 mm links and one layer of 32 mm

tension bars, t = 28 mm approximately. It will, in fact, be slightly larger than
this with deformed bars as they have a larger overall dimension than the
nominal bar size.

Figure 2.6: Beam dimension

Example 2.3:

A simply supported beam has an effective span of 9 m and

supports load as shown in Figure 2.7. Determine the suitable

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dimension for the effective depth an with of the beam

Gk = 15 kN/m , Qk = 20 kN/m

9m

Figure 2.7: A simply supported beam

Solution:

From BS 8110, Table 3.10;

Basic span / effective depth, d ratio for initial design of sizing is

given;

Span / d = 20
d = 9000 / 20
= 450 mm

Ultimate design load, F = 1.4Gk + 1.6Qk

= {1.4(15) + 1.6(20)}
= 477 kN

Maximum shear, V = 477/2 = 238.5 kN

From BS 8110, Cl.3.4.5.2, taken the limiting v is 1.25 kN/mm2

Shear stress, v = V / b.d
1.25 = 238.5 x 103 / b x 450
b = 424 mm

so, say b = 420 mm

Hence a beam of with, 420 mm and effective depth, 450 mm.

would be suitable to support the given design load.

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Example 2.4:

A concrete lintel with an effective span of 4.0 m supports a 230

mm brick wall as shown in Figure 2.8. The load on the lintel are Gk
= 100 kN and Qk = 40 kN. Determine suitable dimensions for the
lintel if Grade 30 concrete is used.

Figure 2.8: The lintel concrete

Solution:

The beam breath b, will be match the wall thickness so that

b = 230 mm

Assume self weight of beam = 14 kN

Ultimate design load, F = 1.4Gk + 1.6Qk
= {1.4(114) + 1.6(40)}
= 224 kN
Maximum shear, V = 224/2 = 112 kN

Assume the triangular load distribution for the preliminary

analysis, we have;

M = F x Span / 6
= (224 x 4.0) / 6
= 149 kN.m

For such a relatively minor beam the case with no

compression steel should be considered, see Cl.3.4.4.4 BS
8110;
K = M / fcu bd2
Therefore;

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149 x 106 < 0.156
30 x 230 x d2
d > 372 mm

For mild conditions of exposure the cover = 25 mm (Table

3.4, BS 8110). So for 10 mm link and, say, 32 mm bars,
(Øbars)

overall depth, h = d + 25 + 10 + 32/2

= d + 51

Therefore make h = 525 mm as an integer number of brick

courses. So that;

d = 525 - 51
= 474 mm

Shear stress, v = V / b.d

= 112 x 103 = 1.03 N/mm 2
230 x 474

From BS 8110, Part 1: Cl.3.4.5.2, for grade 30, taken

the maximum v allow is 0.8 √ fcu = 0.8√ 30 = 4.38
N/mm 2 . Therefore;

v < 4.38 / 2

Basic span-effective depth = 4000 / 474 = 8.4 < 20 → ok

So, beam size 230 mm by 525 mm deep would be suitable.

Weight of beam = 0.23 x 0.525 x 4.0 x 24 = 11 kN, which is
sufficiently close to the assume value.

2.2.1 DESIGNS FOR BENDING

The calculation of main bending reinforcement is performed using the

equations and charts. In the case of rectangular sections which
require only tension steel, the lever-arm curve method is probably the
simplest. Where compression steel is required, either design charts or a
manual approach with the simplified design formulae may be used.
When design charts are not applicable, as in the case of non-
rectangular sections, the formulae based on the equivalent rectangular
stress block will simplify calculations considerably.

The type of reinforcing steel to be used must be decided initially

since this, in conjunction with the chosen concrete grade, will affect
the areas required and also influence bond calculations. In most

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circumstances one of the available types of high-yield bars will be used
unless cracking is critical, as for example in water-retaining structures,
when mild steel may be preferred. Areas of reinforcement arc calculated
at the sections with maximum moments, and suitable bar sizes
selected. This permits anchorage calculations to be performed and
details of bar arrangement to be produced, taking into account the
guidance given by the BS 8110.

An excessive amount of reinforcement usually indicates that a member is

undersized and it may also cause difficulty in fixing the bars and pouring
the concrete. Therefore BS 8110 stipulates As/bh should not exceed
4.0 per cent. On the other hand too little reinforcement is also
undesirable therefore As/bh should not be less than 0.24 per cent for
mild steel or 0.13 per cent for high-yield steel.

2.2.1.1 SINGLY REINFORCED RECTANGULAR SECTION

A beam section needs reinforcement only in the tensile zone when M/

fcubd2 is not greater than 0.156. This is not true if the moments at a
section have been reduced by more than 10 per cent as a result of a
redistribution of the elastic moments, and in this case reference should
be made to Cl.3.4.4.4, BS 8110 in order to decide whether or not
compression steel is necessary.

The singly reinforced section considered is shown in Figure 2.1 and it is

subjected to a moment, M at the ultimate limit state. The design
calculations for the longitudinal steel can be summarized as follows
(Refer Cl.3.4.4.4, BS 8110);

1. Calculate K = M / fcubd2
2. Determine the lever-arm, z from the equation
z = d { 0.5 + (√ 0.25 – K/0.9)}
3. Area of tensile steel;
As = M / 0.87 fy.z
4. Select suitable size of bar
5. Check that the area of steel actually provided is within the

limits required by the B 8110, that is ;

0.13 %< 100As / b.d < 4.0% → high yield steel
0.24 %< 100As / b.d < 4.0% → mild steel

Example 2.5:

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The beam section shown in Figure 2.9 has characteristic material

strength of f cu = 30 N/mm 2 for concrete and fy = 460 N/mm 2 for
steel. The design moment at the ultimate limit state is 165
kN.m which cause sagging of the beam

d = 490 mm
h = 550 mm
b = 230 mm

Figure 2.9:
Beam section example

Solution:

K = M / fcubd2 = 165 x 106 / 30 x 230 x 4922 = 0.1 < 0.156

→ so used singly reinforced

z = d{0.5 + (√ 0.25 – K/0.9)} = d{0.5 + (√ 0.25 – 0.1/0.9)}

= 0.87d < 0.95d, so take z = 0.87d

As = M / 0.87 fy.z = 165 x 106 / 0.87 x 460 x 0.87 x 490

= 967 mm2

So, provide 2T25 bars, Asprov = 982 mm2

From Table 3.27 BS 8110, fy = 460 N/mm2

Checking A smin from Table 3.27, BS 8110; f y = 460 N/mm 2

As min = 0.13bh/100
= 0.13 x 230 x 550 /100
= 164.5 mm 2
As > Asmin → ok.

RECTANGULAR SECTION WITH COMPRESSION

REINFORCEMENT

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As shown in Figure 2.4, compression steel is required whenever the

concrete in compression is unable, by it self, to develop the necessary
moment of resistance. The maximum moment of resistance that can be
developing by the concrete occur with the neutral axis at the maximum
depth allowed by the BS 8110. This limiting depth is given as;

х = (βb - .4) d < 0.5d → (xvii)

where;

βb = moment at the section after redistribution

moment at the section before redistribution

This reduction is due to the designer redistributing the moment from an

elastic analysis of the structure. With x less than d/2 the stress in the
compression steel may considerably less than the yield, therefore, the
design procedure is somewhat different if βb is less than 0.9 (refer to
Cl.3.4.4.4, BS 8110).

The design procedure is;

1. Calculate K = M / fcubd2
2. Calculate K’ = 0.402 (βb - 0.4) – 0.18(βb – 0.4)2
If K < K’, compression steel is not required so proceed as for
singly reinforced section as in Example 2.3.

If K > K’, compression steel is required.

3. Calculate the area of compression steel from;
A’s = (K-K’) fcu.bd2 / 0.87fy(d -d’)
4. Calculate the area of tension steel from;
As = K’ fcu.bd2 / 0.87fy + A’s
Where z = 0.775d

Link should be provided to give lateral resistance to the outer layer of

compression steel according to the following rules. Refer to Cl.3.12.7, BS
8110.

1. The links should pass round the corner bars and each
alternate bar.
2. The link size should be at least one-quarter the size of the
largest compression bar.
3. The spacing of the links should not be grater than twelve times
the size of the smallest compression bar.
4. No compression bar should be more than 150 mm from a
restrained bar.

Example 2.6:

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A rectangular beam is simply supported over a span of 6 m and

carries a dead load including self weight 12.7kN/m and an
imposed load of 6.0kN/m. The beam is 200 mm wide by 300 mm
effective depth and inset of the compression steel is 40 mm.
Design the steel for mid-span of the beam for Grade 30 concrete
and Grade 460 reinforcement.

Solution:

Design load, w = 1.4Gk + 1.6Qk = 1.4(12.70) + 1.6(6)

= 27.38 kN/m

Ultimate moment, M = wl2 / 8 = 27.38 (6)2 / 8

= 123.21 kN.m

K = M / fcubd2
= 123.21 x 106 / 30 x 200 x 3002
= 0.228 > 0.156
→ so used double reinforced

z = d {0.5 + (√ 0.25 – K’/0.9)}

= d {0.5 + (√ 0.25 – 0.156/0.9)}
= 0.78d < 0.95d, so take z = 0.78d

x = (d - z) / 0.45
= { 300 – (0.78 x 300 )} / 0.45
= 147 mm

Check; d’ / x < 0.43 → assumed d’ = 40 mm

40 / 147 < 0.43
0.27 < 0.43 → ok

As’ = (K – K’) fcubd2 / 0.87 fy.(d – d’)

= (0.228 – 0.156) (30)(200)( 3002)
0.87(460)(300 – 40)
= 373 mm2

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So, provide 2T16 bars, Asprov = 402 mm2

As = K’ fcubd2 / 0.87 fy.z + A’s

= 0.156(30)(200)(300)2 + 373
0.87(460)(0.78 x 300)
= 1272.55 mm2

So, provide 2T25 + 2T16 bars, A’sprov = 982 mm2 + 402 mm2

2.2.2 T- BEAM
Figure 2.10 shows sections through a T-beam and an L-beam which may
form part of a concrete beam and slab floor. When the beams are
resisting sagging moments, part of the slab acts as a compression flange
and the members may be designed as T- or L-beams. With hogging
moments the slab will be in tension and assumed to be cracked, therefore
the beam must then be designed as a rectangular section of width bw and
overall depth h.

When the slab does act as the flange its effective width is defined by
empirical rules which are specified in BS 81 10 as follows;

1. T - section → the lesser of the actual flange width, or the width of the
web plus one-fifth of the distance between zero moments.

2. L - section → the lesser of the actual flange width or the width of the
web plus one-tenth of the distance between zero moments.

As a simple rule, the distance between the points of zero moment may be
taken as 0.7 times the effective span for a continuous beam.

Since the slab acts as a large compression area, the stress block for the
T- or L-section usually falls within the slab thickness. For this position of
the stress block, the section may be designed as an equivalent
rectangular section of breadth bf.

Transverse reinforcement should be placed across the top of the flange to

prevent cracking. The area of this reinforcement should not be less than
0.15 per cent of the longitudinal cross-section of the flange.

Design procedure:

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1. Calculate M / bf d2fcu and determine la from the lever-arm curve.
Lever arm z = lad or z = d { 0.5 + ( √ 0.25 – K/0.9)}

2. If d - z < hf /2 the stress block falls within the flange depth, and the
design may proceed as for a rectangular section, breadth bf.

3. Provide transverse steel in the top of the flange .

Area = 0.15hf x 1000/100 = 1.5hf mm2 per meter length of the beam

Figure 2.10: T-Beam and L-Beam

Figure 2.11: a) Neutral axis in flange beam (b) Neutral axis in web

Example 2.7:

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The beam section shown in Figure 2.12 has characteristic material
strengths of fcu = 30 N/mm2 and fy = 460 N/mm2. The design
moment at the ultimate limit state is 190 kNm, causing sagging.

hf = 150 mm
bf = 600 mm

d = 530 mm

h = 580 mm
bw = 250 mm
Figure 2.12: T-beam example.

Solution:

K = M / fcubfd2 = 190 x 106 / 30 x 600 x 5302

= 0.038 < K

Lever-arm, z = d { 0.5 + ( √ 0.25 – K/0.9)}

= d{0.5 + ( √ 0.25 – 0.038/0.9)}
= 0.96d > 0.95d, so take z = 0.95d
z = 0.95(530) = 503.5 mm

d–z = 530 – 503.5

= 26.5 mm < hf / 2
Thus the tress block lies within the flange;
So precede design as a rectangular section.

As = M / 0.87 fy.z = 190x 106 / 0.87 x 460 x 503.5

= 943 mm2
So, provide 2T25 bars, Asprov = 982 mm2

100As = 100 x 982

bw.h 250 x 580

= 0.68%

Thus the steel percentage is greater than the minimum specified

by BS 8110.

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Transverse steel in the flange = 1.5 hf = 1.5 x 150

= 225 mm2/m

Provide R10 bars at 300 mm c/c = 262 mm2/m

2.3 DESIGNS FOR SHEAR

The distribution of shear along a beam is given by the shear-force envelope

diagram. If V is the shear force at a section, then the shear stress v is given by;

v = V/ bd

The shear stress must never exceed the lesser of 0.8 √ fcu of 5 N/mm2.

Shear reinforcement will take the form of vertical stirrups or a combination of

stirrups and bent-up bars.

Figure 2.13 represent the distribution of principal stress across the span of a
homogenous concrete beam. The direction of the principal compressive stresses
takes the form of an arch, while the tensile stresses have the curve of catenary or
suspended chain. Towards mid-span, where the shear is low and the bending
stresses are dominant, the direction of the stresses tends to b parallel to the beam
axis. Near the supports, where the shearing forces are greater, the principal
stresses are inclined at a steeper angle, so that the tensile stresses are liable to
cause diagonal racking. If the diagonal tension exceeds the limited tensile
strength of the concrete then the shear reinforcement must be provided. The
reinforcement is either in the form of stirrups or inclined bars (used conjunction
with stirrups).

The shear in a reinforced concrete beam without shear reinforcement is carried by

a combination of three main components. These are:

i) concrete in compressed zone

ii) dowelling action of tensile reinforcement
iii) aggregate interlock across flexural cracks.

The actual behavior is complex, and is difficult to analyze theoretically, but by

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applying the results from many experimental investigations, reasonable simplified
procedures for analysis and design have been developed.

Figure 2.13: Principle stresses in a beam

2.3.1 STIRRUPS

In order to derive simplified equations the action of a reinforced beam in

shear is represented by an analogous truss in which the longitudinal
reinforcement forms the bottom chord, the stirrups are the vertical
members and the concrete act as the diagonal and top chord
compression members as indicated in Figure 2.14. In the truss shown, the
stirrups are spaced at a distance equal to the effective depth (d) of the
beams so that the diagonal concrete compression members are at an
angle of 450, which more or less agrees with the experimental
observations of the cracking of reinforced concrete beams close to their
supports.

In the analogous truss, let;

Asv be the cross-sectional area of the two leg of stirrups

fyv be the characteristic strength of the stirrup reinforcement
V be the shear force due to the ultimate loads.

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Figure 2.14: Stirrups and the analogous

Using the method of sections it can be seen at sections XX in the Figure

2.14 that at the ultimate limit state the force in the vertical stirrups member
must be equal the shear forces V, that is;

o.87fyvAs = V
or
0.87fyvAsv = vbd → (xviii)

where v = V/bd is the average shear stress on the section.

When the stirrup spacing is less than the effective depth, a series of
superimposed equivalent trusses may be considered, so that the force to
be resisted by the stirrup is reduces proportionally. Thus if sv = the stirrups
spacing, equation (xviii) becomes;

0.87fyvAsv = vbd (sv / d)

or
Asv /sv = vb /0.87fyv

Since the concrete is also capable of resisting a limited amount of shear,

this equation rewritten as;

Asv / sv = b (v – vc) / ( 0.87 fyv )

Where vc is the ultimate shear stress that can be resisted by the concrete.
Values of vc are given in Table 3.9, BS 8110. It can be seen from the table
that vc increase for shallow members and those with larger percentages of
tensile reinforcement. The longitudinal tension bars contribute to the
shear resistance by their dowelling action and they also help o prevent
shear cracks from commencing at small tension cracks. To be effective,
these tension bars should continue an effective depth, d beyond the
section, or at a support they should be adequately curtailed and
anchored.

Further information on the practical details and design examples are given
in Section 2.3.2 and Example 2.8.

2.3.2 VERTICAL STIRRUPS

The usual form of stirrup is a closed link. This helps to make a rigid cage of

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the beam reinforcement and is essential if there is any compression steel
present. An alternative is the open link as shown in Figure 2.15; this may
have a closing piece if lateral support is required, and offers advantages
for in situ steel fixing.

All of the tension reinforcement must be enclosed by links, and if

compression steel is not present, hanger bars are required to anchor
the links in the compression zone (see Figure 2.16). The minimum
spacing of links is determined by the requirements of placing and
compacting the concrete, and should not normally be less than about 80
mm. Maximum spacing of links longitudinally along the span should not
exceed 0.75d. At right angles to the span the spacing of the vertical legs
should not exceed d. and all tension bars should be within 150 mm of
a vertical leg. Because of these requirements (or if there are large
shears), it may often be convenient to provide multiple links as
illustrated in Figure 2.15.

The choice of steel type is often governed by the fact that mild steel
may be bent to a smaller radius than high-yield steel. This is particularly
important in narrow members to allow correct positioning of tension
reinforcement as shown in Figure 2.16.

The advantages of mild steel links are further increased by the need to
provide anchorage for the vertical leg of a stirrup within the compression
zone. Although high yield reinforcement has better bond characteristics,
anchorage lengths are greater than for mild steel bars of comparable size
if the steel is to act at its full design stress. This factor is of particular
importance if `open' links are to be used.

The size and spacing of the stirrups, according to the equations derived in
Section 2.3.1 should be such that;

Asv > b(v – vc)

sv 0.87.fyv

where ;

Asv = cross-sectional area of the legs of a stirrup

sv = spacing of the stirrups
b = breadth of the beam
v = V/b.d
vc = the ultimate shear stress from Table 3.9, BS 8110.
fyv = characteristic strength of the link reinforcement.

The calculation for As/sv is carried out at the critical section, usually
distance d from the face of the support. Since the shear force diminishes
along the beam, similar calculations can be repeated so that a greater
spacing or a smaller stirrup size may be used.

If v is less than vc nominal links must still be provided unless the beam is a
very minor one and v < vc/2. The nominal links should be provided such
that;

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Asv > 0.4b

sv 0.87 fyv

Even when shear steel is required, there is a section at which the shear
resistance of the concrete plus the nominal stirrups equals the shear force
from the envelope diagram. At this section the stirrups necessary to resist
shear can stop and be replaced by the nominal stirrups. The shear
resistance Vn of the concrete plus the nominal stirrups is given by;

Vn = ( 0.4 + vc ) b.d
or
Vn = ( Asv 0.87 fyv + b vc ) d
sv

for the link spacing provided. Once this value of Vn has been calculated it
may be marked on the shear-force envelope to show the limits for the
shear reinforcement, as shown in Figure 2.17.

Figure 2.14: Type of shear link

Figure 2.16: Bending of links

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Figure 2.17: Non-continuous beam-shear reinforcement

2.4 CRACKING
Requirement list below for crack checking based on BS 8110:

1. The BS 8110 specifies two methods for crack control:

i. In normal cases a set of rules for limiting (the maximum bar spacing
in the tension zone members.
ii. In special cases use of a formula given in BS8110, Part 2, Sec 3.8.

2. Bar spacing controls are specified in Cl.3.12.11.2.

3. Limit crack widths to 0.3 mm for normal cases.
4. Diameter of bars ≤ 0.45 of the largest bar in the section should be ignored.
5. The clear horizontal distance, S1 between bars should not be greater than
the values in Table 3.30, BS 8110.
6. The maximum clear distance depends on the grade of reinforcement and
percentage of redistribution.
7. The clear distance, S2 from the corner of a beam to the surface of the nearest
horizontal bar ≤ ½ of the values in the Table 3.30, BS 8110.
8. If the overall depth, h > 750 mm, longitudinal bars should be provided at a
spacing not exceed 250 mm over a distance of 2/3 of the h from the tension
face.
9. The size of bar ≥ √ (Sb)b / fy, where Sb is a bar spacing.
10. It also states that no further checks are required if…….. _refer to Clause
3.12.11.2.7 in the BS 8110.

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Example 2.8:

Shear reinforcement is to be design for the one-span. Given data;

Gk = 42 kN/m (including elf weight), Qk = 12 kN/m, fcu = 30 N/mm2,
fy = 460 N/mm2, fyv = 250 N/mm2, l = 6000 mm, d = 550 mm and b
= 300 mm.

Solution:

i) Design bending moment

Total design load, w = 1.4Gk + 1.6Qk

= 1.4(42) + 1.6(12)
= 78 kN/m

Maximum design moment, M = w.l 2 / 8

= (78)(6)2 / 8
= 351 kN.m

K = M / fcubd2 = 351 x 106 / { 30 x 300 x 5502 }

= 0.129 < 0.156

Lever-arm, z = d { 0.5 + (√ 0.25 – K/0.9)}

= d { 0.5 + (√ 0.25 – 0.129/0.9)}
= 0.83d < 0.95d, so take z = 0.83d
z = 0.83(550) = 454.6 mm

As = M / 0.87 fy.z = 351x 106 / 0.87 x 460 x 454.6

= 1929 mm2
So, provide 4T25 bars, Asprov = 1964 mm2

ii) Deflection Checking

M / bd2 = 351 x 103 / (300 x 5502) = 3.87 N/mm2

From Table 3.11, fs = 275 N/mm2 , M.F = 0.9,
And Table 3.10,
Allowable span/d > Actual span/d
20 x 0.9 > 6000 / 550

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18 > 10.9 → ok

iii) Check maximum shear stress

Maximum shear, V =F/2

= (78 x 6) / 2 = 234 kN

Shear stress, v = V / bd
= 234 x 103 / ( 300 x 550 )
= 1.42 N /mm2 < 0.8√ fcu or 5 N/mm2

From Table 3.9, by interpolation, vc = 0.66 N/mm2

For fcu = 30 N/mm2 , so vc = 0.73 ( 30/25)1/3
= 0.72 N/mm2
v > vc , so shear reinforcement is required

From Table 3.8, Asv / Sv = bv (v – vc) / 0.87.fyv

= 300 (1.42 – 0.72) / 0.87 (250)
= 0.88

Assume10 mm Ø two-leg vertical links, so

Asv = [ π d2 / 4 ] x 2
= [ π x (102) /4 ] x 2
= 157 mm2

So, the spacing required is

Asv / Sv = 0.88
Sv= 178 mm
→ Provide R10 links at 170 mm c/c.

iv) Extent of shear links

Nominal link, for mild steel link is,

Asv / Sv = 0.4b / 0.87fyv

= 0.4 x 300 / 0.87 (250)
= 0.51
So, the spacing required is,

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Sv = 157 / 0.51
= 308 mm
→ Provide R10 links at 300 mm c/c.

The shear resistance of nominal links + concrete is

Vn = ( Asv 0.87 fyv + b vc ) d

sv
= [ 0.51 x (0.87 x 250) + (300 x 0.72)] x 550
= 185 kN

Shear reinforcement is required over a distance given by;

S = (V – Vn) / F = ( 234 – 185 ) 78

= 0.63 m

Number of R10 links at 200 mm c/c required at each end of the

beam is;
= 1 + (S / Svprov)
= 1 + (630 / 170)
= 4.7 ≈ 5

→ Provide 5R10 links at 170 mm c/c of each end of beam.

v) Cracking Check

The bar spacing does not exceed 750 mm or 3d and the

reinforcement is less than 0.3%. Refer to Table 3.30 and
Cl.3.12.11.2.7 in BS 8110.

a) Bending reinforcement

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b) Shear reinforcement

Figure 2.18: One span beam –example

2.5 CONTINUOUS BEAM DESIGN

Beams, slabs and columns of a cast in situ structure all act together to form a
continuous load-bearing structure. The reinforcement in a continuous beam must
be designed and detailed to maintain this continuity by connecting adjacent
spans and tying together the beam and its supporting columns. There must also
be transverse reinforcement to unite the slab and the beam.

The bending-moment envelope is generally a series of sagging moments in the

spans and hogging moments at the supports as in Figure 2.19, but occasionally
the hogging moments may extend completely over the span. Where the sagging
moments occur the beam and slab act together, and the beam can be
designed as a T-section. At the supports, the beam must be designed as a
rectangular section - this is because the hogging moments cause tension in the
slab.

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The moment of resistance of the concrete T- beam section is somewhat greater

than that of the rectangular concrete section at the supports. By this means the
design support moments can be reduced and the design span moments
possibly increased.

Design of the beam follows the procedures and rules set out in the previous
sections. Other factors which have to be considered in the detailed design are
as follows:

1. At an exterior column the beam reinforcing bars which resist the design
moments must have an anchorage bond length within the column.
2. A minimum area of transverse reinforcement must be placed in the top of
the slab, across the effective flange width as described in section 2.2.2
3. Reinforcement in the top of the slab must pass over the beam steel and still
have the necessary cover. This must be considered when detailing the
beam reinforcement and when deciding the effective depth of the beam at
the support sections.
4. The column and beam reinforcement must be carefully detailed so that
the bars can pass through the junctions without interference.

Figure 2.19: Arrangement of bending reinforcement.

Figure 2.19 illustrates a typical arrangement of the bending reinforcement for a

two-span continuous beam. The reinforcement has been at -ranged with reference
to the bending-moment envelope and in accordance with the rules for
anchorage and curtailment. The bending-moment envelope has been divided
into sectors equivalent to the moment of resistance of each reinforcing bar. This
establishes the cut-off points beyond which the bars must extend at least a
curtailment anchorage length. It should be noted that at the external columns
the reinforcement has been bent down to give a full anchorage bond length.

The shear-force envelope and the arrangement of the shear reinforcement for the
same continuous beam are shown in Figure 2.20. On the shear-force envelope
the resistance of the concrete plus the nominal stirrups has been marked and this
shows the lengths of the beam which need shear reinforcement. When
designing the shear reinforcement, reference should be made to the

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arrangement of bending reinforcement to ensure that the longitudinal tension
bars used to establish vc extend at least an effective depth beyond the section
being considered.

Figure 2.20: Arrangement of shear reinforcement

Figure 2.21: Continuous beam with ultimate bending moment and shear-forces
coefficients

Example 2.9:

5.5 m 5.5 m 5.5 m

A
5m

B
5m

C
5m

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Figure 2.21: Beam Plan

Design the beam A / 3-4. Given data:

Exposure condition = moderate

Fire resistance = 1 hour
Dead load, Gk (+s/w) = 15.62 kN/m
Impose load, Qk = 4.13 kN/m
Concrete grade, fcu = 40 N/mm2
Reinforcement grade, fy = 460 N/mm2
Link grade, fyv = 250 N/mm2
Dimension of beam = 250 x 350 mm
Slab thickness = 100 mm

Solution:
Reference Calculation Result

Cl.3.3 Durability & Fire Resistance

Table 3.4 Nominal cover for moderate exposure = 30 mm
Table 3.5 Nominal cover for 1 hour resistance = 20 mm .'. Use = 30 mm

Cl.3.2.1.2.2 Loading
Dead load, Gk= 15.62 x 5.5 = 85.91 kN
Imposed load, Qk = 4.13 x 5.5 = 22.72 kN
Total ultimate load, F = I.4Gk + 1.6 Qk F = 156.63 kN
= 1.4(85.91) + 1.6(22.72)

F= 156.63 kN = 156.63 kN
= 156.63 kN

Reference Calculation Result

Cl.3.4.2. Bending. Moment

When Table 3.6 is used, moment redistribution is not

permitted.

Ultimate moment, M at beam A / 3 - 4

Table 3.6
Moment at interior supports, M = 0.08FL
= 0.08 (156.63) (5.5)
= 69 kNm

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Moment at mid-span, M = 0.07FL
= 0.07 (156.63) (5.5)
= 60.3 kNm

Reinforcement
A) At Supports (Rectangular Section)

Assume: Main Ø bars = 20 mm

Ø Link = 10 mm .'. d = 300 mm

.'. Effective depth, d = h - cover - Ø link – Ø bar/2

d- 300 nmi =350-30- 10 -20/2

Cl. 3.4.4.4 = 350 – 30 – 10 – 20/2 .'. K = 0.08
= 300 mm K < K’
. J~x

K = M / fcubd2

K = 0.08
= 69 x 10 6 / (40 x 250 x 3002)
Cl. 3.4.4.4
K < K'
= 0.08 < K' .'. z = 0.9d mm

→so, compression reinforcement is not required.

.'.Asreq = 638 mm2

Z = d { 0.5 + ( √ 0.25 – K/0.9)}
.'.Aspro = 943 mm2
= d { 0.5 + (√ 0.25 – 0.08 / 0.9)}
= 0.9d < 0.95d, so take z = 0.9d

Table 3.27
As = M / 0.87 fy.z = 69 x 106 / ( 0.87 x 460 x 0.9 x 300) 3T20

= 638 mm2
.'. Provide 3T20 bars, Asprov = 943 mm2

Checking Ok

As min = 0.13bh /100

100 As / bh = 100 (943) / (250 x 350)
= 1.07 > 0.13%
.'. 0.13% < 100 As / bh < 4% → ok

Reference Calculation Result

B) At Mid-span (L - Shape Cross-section)

Cl.3.4.1.5
Effective width of flange = b w + lz/ 10
6= 635 nun

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= 250 + (0.7 x 5500) /10
.'. b = 635 mm
`

-
.'.Mf = 286 kN.m
= 635 mm
Mf > M

Mf = 0.45fcu.b.hf.( d – hf /2 )
Cl. 3.4.4.4
= 0.45 x 40 x 635x 100 /( 300 - 100/2 )

.'. K = 0.026
Mr= 28G kNm
K < K’
= 286 kNm > M

Mr> hT
.'. design as a rectangular section
.'. z = 0.95d mm

K = M / fcubd2

K = 0.08 .'.Asreq = 528 mm2

= 60.3 x 10 6 / (40 x 635 x 3002) .'.Aspro = 629 mm2

K < K'
= 0.026 < K'
→so, compression reinforcement is not required.
2T20
Table 3.27
z = d { 0.5 + ( √ 0.25 – K/0.9)}
= d { 0.5 + ( √ 0.25 – 0.026 / 0.9)}
= 0.97d > 0.95d, so take z = 0.95d
Ok
(Flange beam)
6
As = M / 0.87 fy.z = 60.3 x 10 / ( 0.87 x 460 x 0.95 x 300)
= 528 mm2
.'. Provide 2T20 bars, Asprov = 629 mm2

Checking

As min = 0.13bh/100
100 As / bh = 100 (629) / (635 x 350)
= 0.28 > 0.18%
.'. 0.18% < 100 As / bh < 4% → ok

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Reference Calculation Result

Ultimate Shear Forces

Table 3.5 At Interior Supports
V = 0.55F = 0.55 x 156.63 = 86.2 kN V = 86.2 kN

Cl.3.4.5.2 Shear Reinforcement

Shear stress, v = V / b.d

= 86.2 x 103 / ( 250 x 300 ) v =1.14 N/mm2
= 1.14 N /mm2 < 0.8 √ fcu or 5 N/mm2 ok

* As provided at interior support , Asprov = 943 mm2

Table 3.9 By interpolation, vc = 0.73 N/mm2

For fcu = 40 N/mm2 , so vc = 0.73 ( 40/25)1/3 vc = 0.85 N/mm2
= 0.85 N/mm2
v > vc , so shear reinforcement is required v > vc

.'. 0.5 v c < v < (vc + 0.4)

0.425 < 1.14 < 1.25

Table 3.8 Provide R10, Asv = 157 mm2 Prov. Min. links
for whole length
Asv / Sv = 0.4 bv / 0.87fyv
Asv = 157 mm2
= 0.4(250) / 0.87 (250)
= 0.46

Cl.3.4.5.5 Sv = 157 / 0.46 = 341 mm > 0.75d Sv = 200 mm

→ use Sv = 200 mm

Checking: Asvprov / Sv = 157 / 200 Provide

= 0.79 > 0.46 → ok R10@200mm c/c

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Reference Calculation Result

Deflection
At Mid-span
Cl.3.4.6
Table 3.10
Basic span / effective depth ratio (bw/b ≤ 0.3) = 20.8
By interpolation, basic span / effective depth ratio is
Cl.3.4.6.3
= 20.8 + [(0.39 – 0.3) / ( 1.0 – 0.3)] x [ (26 -20.8)]
= 21.5

Table 3.11
M / bd2 = 60.3 x 103 / (635 x 3002) = 1.06 N/mm2
M.F.T.R = 1.57
fs = 236 N/mm2 , M.F.T.R = 1.57

Table 3.12
M.F.C.R = 1 ( no compression reinforcement) M.F.C.R = 1

.'. Allowable span/d > Actual span/d

21.5(1)(1.57) > 5500 / 300
ok
33.8 > 18.3 → ok

Cl.3.12.11.2.1 Cracking
Table 3.30 For fy = 460 N/mm2 & 0% redistribution

S1 = 250 – 2(30) – 2(10) - 2(20) = 130mm S1 < 160mm→ok

S1 < 160 mm → ok

S2 = √ [ (30 + 10 + 20/2)2 + (30 + 10 + 20/2)2 ] – 20/2 S2 < 160/2 →ok

= 460 N/mm
= 60.7 mm < 160/2 mm → ok

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SUMMARY
In this unit we have studied method for reinforced concrete beam design. Summary of
reinforced concrete beam design are shown in Figure 2.21 below:

Decide concrete grade, concrete cover, fire

resistance and durability

Estimate section size using allowable

span/effective depth as guide or d = L/15 to
determine the effective depth

Load calculation and estimation

UBBL: 1984 or BS 6339:1984

Structural analysis for shear force diagram and

bending moment diagram

Section design for single or double reinforced

Shear reinforcement design

Check for serviceability limit state

Figure 2.21: Flowchart for beam design

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REFERENCES
1. W.H.Mosley, J.H. Bungery & R. Husle (1999), Reinforced Concrete Design (5th
Edition) : Palgrave.
2. Reinforced Concrete Modul, (1st Edition). USM.
3. BS 8110, Part 1: 1985, The Structural Use of Concrete. Code of Practice for
Design and Construction.

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