Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110

Table 3.9 Nominal cover to all reinforcement to meet specified

periods of fire resistance (based on Table 3.4, BS 8110)

Fire Nominal cover (mm)

resistance
(hours) Beams Floors Columns

Simply Continuous Simply Continuous

supported supported

0.5 20 20 20 20 20
1.0 20 20 20 20 20
1.5 20 20 25 20 20
2.0 40 30 35 25 25
3.0 60 40 45 35 25
4.0 70 50 55 45 25

3.8.2 FIRE PROTECTION Having discussed these more general aspects

Fire protection of reinforced concrete members is relating to structural design, the detailed design of
largely achieved by specifying limits for: beams is considered in the following section.
1. nominal thickness of cover to the reinforcement;
2. minimum dimensions of members. 3.9 Beams
Table 3.9 gives the actual values of the nominal Beams in reinforced concrete structures can be
depths of concrete covers to all reinforcement for defined according to:
specified periods of fire resistance and member
types. The covers in the table may need to be 1. cross-section
increased because of durability considerations. The 2. position of reinforcement
minimum dimensions of members for fire resistance 3. support conditions.
are shown in Fig. 3.11. Some common beam sections are shown in
Beams
Columns Fig. 3.12. Beams reinforced with tension steel only
Floors
are referred to as singly reinforced. Beams reinforced
with tension and compression steel are termed
Plane soffit h doubly reinforced. Inclusion of compression steel
b b b will increase the moment capacity of the beam and
Fully exposed
hence allow more slender sections to be used. Thus,
doubly reinforced beams are used in preference to
Fire Minimum dimension (mm)
resistance Compression
( hours) Beam Floor Exposed steel
width thickness column width
( b) ( h) ( b) Tension steel
(a) (b)
0.5 200 75 150
1.0 200 95 200
Neutral
1.5 200 110 250
2.0 200 125 300 axis
3.0 240 150 400
4.0 280 170 450
(c) (d)

Fig. 3.11 Minimum dimensions of reinforced concrete Fig. 3.12 Beam sections: (a) singly reinforced; (b) doubly
members for fire resistance (based on Fig. 3.2, BS 8110). reinforced; (c) T-section; (d) L-section.

44

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 Beams

3.9.1 SINGLY REINFORCED BEAM DESIGN

All beams may fail due to excessive bending or shear.
(a) (b) In addition, excessive deflection of beams must be
Fig. 3.13 Support conditions: (a) simply supported; avoided otherwise the efficiency or appearance of
(b) continuous. the structure may become impaired. As discussed
in section 3.4, bending and shear are ultimate states
while deflection is a serviceabilty state. Generally,
b structural design of concrete beams primarily in-
volves consideration of the following aspects which
d′ A s′ are discussed next:
d h
As
1. bending
2. shear
3. deflection.
Fig. 3.14 Notation.
3.9.1.1 Bending (clause 3.4.4.4, BS 8110)
Consider the case of a simply supported, singly
singly reinforced beams when there is some restric- reinforced, rectangular beam subject to a uniformly
tion on the construction depth of the section. distributed load ω as shown in Figs 3.15 and 3.16.
Under certain conditions, T and L beams are
more economical than rectangular beams since
some of the concrete below the dotted line (neu-
tral axis), which serves only to contain the tension
steel, is removed resulting in a reduced unit weight ω
A
of beam. Furthermore, beams may be simply sup-
ported at their ends or continuous, as illustrated in
Fig. 3.13.
Figure 3.14 illustrates some of the notation A
used in beam design. Here b is the width of the
beam, h the overall depth of section, d the effective
depth of tension reinforcement, d ′ the depth of Moment Moment
compression reinforcement, As the area of tension
reinforcement and A s′ the area of compression Deflection
reinforcement. C omp ression zo ne
The following sub-sections consider the design
of: Te nsion zo ne

1. singly reinforced beams Cracks Neutral axis

2. doubly reinforced beams
3. continuous, L and T beams. Fig. 3.15

0.67f cu
ε cc γm 0.9x
0.67f cu
γm
x
Neutral axis
d

As
ε st
1
4
4
4
4
2
4
4
4
4
3

Stress blocks
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)

Fig. 3.16 Stress and strain distributions at section A-A: (a) section; (b) strains; (c) triangular (low strain);
(d) rectangular parabolic (large strain); (e) equivalent rectangular.

45

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 Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110

The load causes the beam to deflect downwards, steel (Fst ) at the ultimate limit state can be readily
putting the top portion of the beam into compres- calculated using the following:
sion and the bottom portion into tension. At some
Fst = design stress × area
distance x below the compression face, the section
is neither in compression nor tension and therefore f y As
= (using equation 3.4) (3.5)
the strain at this level is zero. This axis is normally γ ms
referred to as the neutral axis.
Assuming that plane sections remain plane, the where
strain distribution will be triangular (Fig. 3.16b). f y = yield stress
The stress distribution in the concrete above the A s = area of reinforcement
neutral axis is initially triangular (Fig. 3.16c), for γ ms = factor of safety for reinforcement (= 1.15)
low values of strain, because stress and strain are
directly proportional (Fig. 3.7). The stress in the However, it is not an easy matter to calculate
concrete below the neutral axis is zero, however, the compressive force in the concrete because of
since it is assumed that the concrete is cracked, the complicated pattern of stresses in the concrete.
being unable to resist any tensile stress. All the To simplify the situation, BS 8110 replaces the
tensile stresses in the member are assumed to be rectangular–parabolic stress distribution with an
resisted by the steel reinforcement and this is equivalent rectangular stress distribution (Fig. 3.16e).
reflected in a peak in the tensile stress at the level And it is the rectangular stress distribution which
of the reinforcement. is used in order to develop the design formulae
As the intensity of loading on the beam increases, for rectangular beams given in clause 3.4.4.4 of
the mid-span moment increases and the distribution BS 8110. Specifically, the code gives formulae for
of stresses changes from that shown in Fig. 3.16c the following design parameters which are derived
to 3.16d. The stress in the reinforcement increases below:
linearly with strain up to the yield point. Thereafter 1. ultimate moment of resistance
it remains at a constant value (Fig. 3.9). However, 2. area of tension reinforcement
as the strain in the concrete increases, the stress 3. lever arm.
distribution is assumed to follow the parabolic form
of the stress–strain relationship for concrete under (i) Ultimate moment of resistance, Mu. Con-
compression (Fig. 3.7). sider the singly reinforced beam shown in Fig. 3.17.
The actual stress distribution at a given section The loading on the beam gives rise to an ultimate
and the mode of failure of the beam will depend design moment (M ) at mid-span. The resulting
upon whether the section is (1) under-reinforced curvature of the beam produces a compression force
or (2) over-reinforced. If the section is over- in the concrete (Fcc) and a tensile force in the rein-
reinforced the steel does not yield and the failure forcement (Fst). Since there is no resultant axial
mechanism will be crushing of the concrete due to force on the beam, the force in the concrete must
its compressive capacity being exceeded. Steel is equal the force in the reinforcement:
expensive and, therefore, over-reinforcing will lead
to uneconomical design. Furthermore, with this type Fcc = Fst (3.6)
of failure there may be no external warning signs;
These two forces are separated by a distance z,
just sudden, catastrophic collapse. the moment of which forms a couple (Mu) which
If the section is under-reinforced, the steel yields opposes the design moment. For structural stabil-
and failure will again occur due to crushing of
ity Mu ≥ M where
the concrete. However, the beam will show con-
siderable deflection which will be accompanied Mu = Fcc z = Fst z (3.7)
by severe cracking and spalling from the tension
From the stress block shown in Fig. 3.17(c)
face thus providing ample warning signs of failure.
Moreover, this form of design is more economical Fcc = stress × area
since a greater proportion of the steel strength is
0.67 fcu
utilised. Therefore, it is normal practice to design = 0.9xb (3.8)
sections which are under-reinforced rather than γ mc
over-reinforced. and
In an under-reinforced section, since the rein-
forcement will have yielded, the tensile force in the z = d − 0.9x/2 (3.9)
46

9780415467193_C03a 46 9/3/09, 12:42 PM

 Beams

0.67f cu
b γm

Fcc
x 0.9x

d Neutral axis z

Fst
(a) (b) (c)

Fig. 3.17 Ultimate moment of resistance for singly reinforced section.

In order to ensure that the section is under- (ii) Area of tension reinforcement, As. At the
reinforced, BS 8110 limits the depth of the neutral limiting condition Mu = M, equation 3.7 becomes
axis (x) to a maximum of 0.5d, where d is the
effective depth (Fig. 3.17(b)). Hence M = Fst·z
x ≤ 0.5d (3.10) f y As
= z (from equation 3.5)
By combining equations 3.7–3.10 and putting γ ms
γmc = 1.5 (Table 3.3) it can be shown that the ulti- Rearranging and putting γms = 1.15 (Table 3.3)
mate moment of resistance is given by: gives
Mu = 0.156fcubd 2 (3.11)
M
Note that Mu depends only on the properties of As = (3.12)
0.87 f y z
the concrete and not the steel reinforcement. Pro-
vided that the design moment does not exceed Mu Solution of this equation requires an expression for
(i.e. M ≤ Mu), a beam whose section is singly rein- z which can either be obtained graphically (Fig. 3.18)
forced will be sufficient to resist the design moment. or by calculation as discussed below.
The following section derives the equation neces-
sary to calculate the area of reinforcement needed (iii) Lever arm, z. At the limiting condition
for such a case. Mu = M, equation 3.7 becomes

0.95

0.9
Ratio z /d

0.85

0.8

0.774
0 0.042 0.05 0.1 0.15 0.156
M /bd 2f cu

Fig. 3.18 Lever-arm curve.

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 Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110

0.67 fcu z = d[0.5 + (0.25 − K /0.9) ] (3.13)

M = Fcc z = 0.9bxz (from equation 3.8)
γ mc
Once z has been determined, the area of tension
= 0.4fcubzx (putting γmc = 1.5) reinforcement, As, can be calculated using equation
(d − z ) 3.12. In clause 3.4.4.1 of BS 8110 it is noted that
= 0.4fcubz2 (from equation 3.9) z should not exceed 0.95d in order to give a reason-
0.9 able concrete area in compression. Moreover it
8 should be remembered that equation 3.12 can only
= fcubz(d − z) be used to determine As provided that M ≤ Mu or
9
K ≤ K′ where
Dividing both sides by fcubd 2 gives
M Mu
M 8 K= and K′ =
= (z/d )(1 − z/d ) fcu bd 2 fcu bd 2
fcu bd 2 9
To summarise, design for bending requires
M the calculation of the maximum design moment
Substituting K = and putting zo = z/d gives
fcu bd 2 (M) and corresponding ultimate moment of re-
sistance of the section (Mu). Provided M ≤ Mu or
0 = zo2 − zo + 9K/8
K ≤ K′, only tension reinforcement is needed and
This is a quadratic and can be solved to give the area of steel can be calculated using equation
3.12 via equation 3.13. Where M > Mu the de-
zo = z/d = 0.5 + (0.25 − K /0.9)
signer has the option to either increase the section
This equation is used to draw the lever arm curve sizes (i.e. M ≤ Mu) or design as a doubly reinforced
shown in Fig. 3.18, and is usually expressed in the section. The latter option is discussed more fully
following form in section 3.9.2.

Example 3.2 Design of bending reinforcement for a singly reinforced

beam (BS 8110)
A simply supported rectangular beam of 7 m span carries characteristic dead (including self-weight of beam), gk, and
imposed, qk, loads of 12 kNm−1 and 8 kNm−1 respectively (Fig. 3.19). The beam dimensions are breadth, b, 275 mm and
effective depth, d, 450 mm. Assuming the following material strengths, calculate the area of reinforcement required.
fcu = 30 Nmm−2
fy = 500 Nmm−2
b = 275

q k = 8 kN m−1
d = 450 g k = 12 kN m−1

7m

Fig. 3.19

Ultimate load (w) = 1.4gk + 1.6qk

= 1.4 × 12 + 1.6 × 8 = 29.6 kNm−1
wl2 29.6 × 72
Design moment (M) = = = 181.3 kNm
8 8
Ultimate moment of resistance (Mu ) = 0.156fcubd 2
= 0.156 × 30 × 275 × 4502 × 10−6 = 260.6 kNm
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 Beams

Example 3.2 continued

Since Mu > M design as a singly reinforced beam.
M 181.3 × 106
K= = = 0.1085
fcubd 2 30 × 275 × 4502
z = d[0.5 + (0.25 − K /0.9)
= 450[0.5 + (0.25 − 0.1085/0.9) ]
= 386.8 mm ≤ 0.95d (= 427.5 mm) OK.
M 181.3 × 106
As = = = 1078 mm2
0.87f y z 0.87 × 500 × 386.8
For detailing purposes this area of steel has to be transposed into a certain number of bars of a given diameter.
This is usually achieved using steel area tables similar to that shown in Table 3.10. Thus it can be seen that four
20 mm diameter bars have a total cross-sectional area of 1260 mm2 and would therefore be suitable. Hence provide
4H20. (N.B. H refers to high yield steel bars (fy = 500 Nmm−2); R refers to mild steel bars (fy = 250 Nmm−2).

Table 3.10 Cross-sectional areas of groups of bars (mm2)

Bar size Number of bars

(mm)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

6 28.3 56.6 84.9 113 142 170 198 226 255 283
8 50.3 101 151 201 252 302 352 402 453 503
10 78.5 157 236 314 393 471 550 628 707 785
12 113 226 339 452 566 679 792 905 1020 1130
16 201 402 603 804 1010 1210 1410 1610 1810 2010
20 314 628 943 1260 1570 1890 2200 2510 2830 3140
25 491 982 1470 1960 2450 2950 3440 3930 4420 4910
32 804 1610 2410 3220 4020 4830 5630 6430 7240 8040
40 1260 2510 3770 5030 6280 7540 8800 10100 11300 12600

3.9.1.2 Design charts The design procedure involves the following

An alternative method of determining the area of steps:
tensile steel required in singly reinforced rectangu-
lar beams is by using the design charts given in 1. Check M ≤ Mu.
Part 3 of BS 8110. These charts are based on the 2. Select appropriate chart from Part 3 of BS 8110
rectangular–parabolic stress distribution for con- based on the grade of tensile reinforcement.
crete shown in Fig. 3.16(d) rather than the simpli- 3. Calculate M/bd 2.
fied rectangular distribution and should therefore 4. Plot M/bd 2 ratio on chart and read off corres-
provide a more economical estimate of the required ponding 100As/bd value using curve appropriate
area of steel reinforcement. However, BSI issued to grade of concrete selected for design.
these charts when the preferred grade of reinforce- 5. Calculate As.
ment was 460, not 500, and use of these charts Using the figures given in Example 3.2,
will therefore in fact overestimate the required ten-
sile steel area by around 10 per cent. M = 181.3 kNm ≤ Mu = 260.6 kNm
A modified version of chart 2 which is appropri-
ate for use with grade 500 reinforcement is shown M 181.3 × 106
= = 3.26
Fig. 3.20. bd 2
275 × 4502
49

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 Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110

7
40

f cu (N mm−2)
35
6
30
5
25
M/bd 2 (N mm−2)

4
b
x
3 d

As
2

1
fy 500

0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0

100As /bd

Fig. 3.20 Design chart for singly reinforced beam (based on chart No. 2, BS 8110: Part 3).

From Fig. 3.20, using the fcu = 30 N/mm2 curve The second failure mode, termed diagonal com-
pression failure (Fig. 3.21(b)), occurs under the
100 As
= 0.87 action of large shear forces acting near the support,
bd resulting in crushing of the concrete. This type
Hence, As = 1076 mm2 of failure is avoided by limiting the maximum
Therefore provide 4H20 (A s = 1260 mm2) shear stress to 5 N/mm2 or 0.8 fcu , whichever is
the lesser.
3.9.1.3 Shear (clause 3.4.5, BS 8110) The design shear stress, υ, at any cross-section
Another way in which failure of a beam may arise can be calculated from:
is due to its shear capacity being exceeded. Shear υ = V/bd (3.14)
failure may arise in several ways, but the two prin-
cipal failure mechanisms are shown in Fig. 3.21. where
With reference to Fig. 3.21(a), as the loading V design shear force due to ultimate loads
increases, an inclined crack rapidly develops b breadth of section
between the edge of the support and the load point, d effective depth of section
resulting in splitting of the beam into two pieces. In order to determine whether shear reinforcement
This is normally termed diagonal tension failure and is required, it is necessary to calculate the shear re-
can be prevented by providing shear reinforcement. sistance, or using BS 8110 terminology the design
concrete shear stress, at critical sections along the
beam. The design concrete shear stress, υc, is found
to be composed of three major components, namely:
1. concrete in the compression zone;
2. aggregate interlock across the crack zone;
3. dowel action of the tension reinforcement.

(a) (b)
The design concrete shear stress can be deter-
mined using Table 3.11. The values are in terms
Fig. 3.21 Types of shear failure: (a) diagonal tension; of the percentage area of longitudinal tension rein-
(b) diagonal compression. forcement (100As /bd ) and effective depth of the
50

9780415467193_C03a 50 9/3/09, 12:43 PM

 Beams

Table 3.11 Values of design concrete shear stress, υc (N/mm2) for

fcu = 25 N/mm2 concrete (Table 3.8, BS 8110)

100As Effective depth (d) mm

bd
125 150 175 200 225 250 300 ≥ 400

≤ 0.15 0.45 0.43 0.41 0.40 0.39 0.38 0.36 0.34

0.25 0.53 0.51 0.49 0.47 0.46 0.45 0.43 0.40
0.50 0.57 0.64 0.62 0.60 0.58 0.56 0.54 0.50
0.75 0.77 0.73 0.71 0.68 0.66 0.65 0.62 0.57
1.00 0.84 0.81 0.78 0.75 0.73 0.71 0.68 0.63
1.50 0.97 0.92 0.89 0.86 0.83 0.81 0.78 0.72
2.00 1.06 1.02 0.98 0.95 0.92 0.89 0.86 0.80
≥ 3.00 1.22 1.16 1.12 1.08 1.05 1.02 0.98 0.91

section (d ). The table assumes that cube strength The former is the most widely used method and
of concrete is 25 Nmm−2. For other values of cube will therefore be the only one discussed here. The
strength up to a maximum of 40 Nmm−2, the de- following section derives the design equations for
sign shear stresses can be determined by multiply- calculating the area and spacing of links.
ing the values in the table by the factor ( fcu /25)1/3.
Generally, where the design shear stress exceeds (i) Shear resistance of links. Consider a rein-
the design concrete shear stress, shear reinforce- forced concrete beam with links uniformly spaced
ment will be needed. This is normally done by at a distance sv, under the action of a shear force V.
providing The resulting failure plane is assumed to be in-
clined approximately 45° to the horizontal as shown
1. vertical shear reinforcement commonly referred
in Fig. 3.22.
to as ‘links’
The number of links intersecting the potential
2. a combination of vertical and inclined (or bent-
crack is equal to d/sv and it follows therefore that
up) bars as shown below.
the shear resistance of these links, Vlink, is given by
Vlink = number of links × total cross-sectional
Vertical shear
reinforcement
area of links (Fig. 3.23) × design stress
= (d/sv) × Asv × 0.87fyv

45° 45° d

sv
Inclined shear d
reinforcement

Beam with vertical and inclined shear reinforcement. Fig. 3.22 Shear resistance of links.

A πΦ2 D A πΦ2 D
A sv = 2 A sv = 4
C 4 F C 4 F

Φ − diameter of links

Fig. 3.23 A sv for varying shear reinforcement arrangements.

51

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 Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110

The shear resistance of concrete, Vconc, can be Asv 0.4b

calculated from = (3.16)
sv 0.87 f yv
Vconc = υcbd (using equation 3.14) Equations 3.15 and 3.16 provide a basis for cal-
The design shear force due to ultimate loads, V, culating the minimum area and spacing of links.
must be less than the sum of the shear resistance The details are discussed next.
of the concrete (Vconc) plus the shear resistance of
the links (Vlink), otherwise failure of the beam may (ii) Form, area and spacing of links. Shear
arise. Hence reinforcement should be provided in beams ac-
cording to the criteria given in Table 3.12.
V ≤ Vconc + Vlink Thus where the design shear stress is less than
≤ υcbd + (d/sv)Asv0.87fyv half the design concrete shear stress (i.e. υ < 0.5υc),
no shear reinforcement will be necessary although,
Dividing both sides by bd gives in practice, it is normal to provide nominal links
V/bd ≤ υc + (1/bs v)Asv0.87fyv in all beams of structural importance. Where
0.5υc < υ < (υc + 0.4) nominal links based on equa-
From equation 3.14 tion 3.16 should be provided. Where υ > υc + 0.4,
υ ≤ υc + (1/bsv)Asv0.87fyv design links based on equation 3.15 should be
provided.
Asv b( ν − νc ) BS 8110 further recommends that the spacing of
rearranging gives = (3.15)
sv 0.87 f yv links in the direction of the span should not exceed
0.75d. This will ensure that at least one link crosses
Where (υ − υc) is less than 0.4 N/mm2 then links
the potential crack.
should be provided according to

Table 3.12 Form and area of links in beams (Table 3.7, BS 8110)

Values of υ (N /mm 2) Area of shear reinforcement to be provided

υ < 0.5υc throughout the beam No links required but normal practice to provide nominal links in
members of structural importance
0.4bs v
0.5υc < υ < (υc + 0.4) Nominal (or minimum) links for whole length of beam Asv ≥
0.87 f yv
bs (υ − υ c )
(υc + 0.4) < υ < 0.8 f cu or 5 N/mm2 Design links Asv ≥ v
0.87 f yv

Example 3.3 Design of shear reinforcement for a beam (BS 8110)

Design the shear reinforcement for the beam shown in Fig. 3.24 using high yield steel (fy = 500 Nmm−2) links for the
following load cases:
(i) qk = 0
(ii) qk = 10 kNm−1
(iii) qk = 29 kNm−1
(iv) qk = 45 kNm−1
b = 325

q k varies
g k = 10 kN m−1
f cu = 25 N mm−2
d = 547
225 mm 225 mm
6m 4H25 (A s = 1960 mm2)

Fig. 3.24

52

9780415467193_C03a 52 9/3/09, 12:44 PM

 Beams

Example 3.3 continued

DESIGN CONCRETE SHEAR STRESS, υc

100 As 100 × 1960

= = 1.10
bd 325 × 547

From Table 3.11, υc = 0.65 Nmm−2 (see below)

100A s Effective depth (mm)

bd
300 ≥ 400

Nmm−2 Nmm−2
1.00 0.68 0.63
1.10 0.65
1.50 0.78 0.72

(I) qk = 0
υ)
Design shear stress (υ

g k = 10 kN m−1

6m
RA RB

V
V
Shear force diagram

Total ultimate load, W, is

W = (1.4gk + 1.6qk)span = (1.4 × 10 + 1.6 × 0)6 = 84 kN
Since beam is symmetrically loaded
RA = RB = W/2 = 42 kN
Ultimate shear force (V ) = 42 kN and design shear stress, υ, is
V 42 × 103
υ= = = 0.24 Nmm−2
bd 325 × 547

Diameter and spacing of links

By inspection
υ < υc/2
i.e. 0.24 Nmm−2 < 0.32 Nmm−2. Hence from Table 3.12, shear reinforcement may not be necessary.
53

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 Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110

Example 3.3 continued

(II) qk = 10 kNm−1
υ)
Design shear stress (υ

g k = 10 kN m−1 q k = 10 kN m−1

6m
RA RB

V
V

Total ultimate load, W, is

W = (1.4gk + 1.6qk)span = (1.4 × 10 + 1.6 × 10)6 = 180 kN
Since beam is symmetrically loaded
RA = RB = W/2 = 90 kN
Ultimate shear force (V ) = 90 kN and design shear stress, υ, is
V 90 × 103
υ= = = 0.51 Nmm−2
bd 325 × 547

Diameter and spacing of links

By inspection
υc /2 < υ < (υc + 0.4)
i.e. 0.32 < 0.51< 1.05. Hence from Table 3.12, provide nominal links for whole length of beam according to
A sv 0.4b 0.4 × 325
= =
sv 0.87f yv 0.87 × 500
This value has to be translated into a certain bar size and spacing of links and is usually achieved using shear
reinforcement tables similar to Table 3.13. The spacing of links should not exceed 0.75d = 0.75 × 547 = 410 mm.
From Table 3.13 it can be seen that 8 mm diameter links spaced at 300 mm centres provide a A sv /s v ratio of 0.335 and
would therefore be suitable. Hence provide H8 links at 300 mm centres for whole length of beam.

Table 3.13 Values of A sv /s v

Diameter Spacing of links (mm)

(mm)
85 90 100 125 150 175 200 225 250 275 300

8 1.183 1.118 1.006 0.805 0.671 0.575 0.503 0.447 0.402 0.366 0.335
10 1.847 1.744 1.57 1.256 1.047 0.897 0.785 0.698 0.628 0.571 0.523
12 2.659 2.511 2.26 1.808 1.507 1.291 1.13 1.004 0.904 0.822 0.753
16 4.729 4.467 4.02 3.216 2.68 2.297 2.01 1.787 1.608 1.462 1.34

54

9780415467193_C03a 54 9/3/09, 12:45 PM

 Beams

Example 3.3 continued

2H12 (hanger bars)

21H8 links at 300

H8 links

4H25
−1
(III) qk = 29 kNm
Design shear stress (v)
q k = 29 kN m−1
g k = 10 kN m−1

6m
RA RB

Total ultimate load, W, is

W = (1.4gk + 1.6qk)span = (1.4 × 10 + 1.6 × 29)6 = 362.4 kN
Since beam is symmetrically loaded
RA = RB = W/2 = 181.2 kN
Ultimate shear force (V ) = 181.2 kN and design shear stress, υ, is
V 181.2 × 103
υ= = = 1.02 Nmm−2
bd 325 × 547
Diameter and spacing of links
By inspection
υc /2 < υ < (υc + 0.4)
i.e. 0.32 < 1.02 < 1.05. Hence from Table 3.12, provide nominal links for whole length of beam according to
A sv 0.4b 0.4 × 325
= = = 0.3
sv 0.87f yv 0.87 × 500
Therefore as in case (ii) (qk = 10 kNm−1), provide H8 links at 300 mm centres.
(IV) qk = 45 kNm−1
q k = 45 kN m−1
g k = 10 kN m−1

6m
RA RB

V
V

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 Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110

Example 3.3 continued

Design shear stress (v)
Total ultimate load, W, is
W = (1.4gk + 1.6qk)span = (1.4 × 10 + 1.6 × 45)6 = 516 kN
Since beam is symmetrically loaded
RA = RB = W/2 = 258 kN
Ultimate shear force (V ) = 258 kN and design shear stress, υ, is
V 258 × 103
υ= = = 1.45 Nmm−2 < permissible = 0.8 25 = 4 Nmm−2
bd 325 × 547

Diameter and spacing of links

Where υ < (υc + 0.4) = 0.65 + 0.4 = 1.05 Nmm−2, nominal links are required according to
A sv 0.4b 0.4 × 325
= = = 0.3
sv 0.87f yv 0.87 × 500
Hence, from Table 3.13, provide H8 links at 300 mm centres where υ < 1.05 Nmm−2, i.e. 2.172 m either side of the
mid-span of beam.
v = 1.45 N mm−2

3m 3m
v x /1.05 = 3/1.45
x
x = 2.172 m
x
1.05 N mm−2

Where υ > (υ c + 0.4) = 1.05 Nmm−2 design links required according to

A sv b(υ − υc ) 325(1.45 − 0.65)
= = = 0.598
sv 0.87f yv 0.87 × 500
Hence, from Table 3.13, provide H8 links at 150 mm centres (A sv /s v = 0.671) where v > 1.05 Nmm−2, i.e. 0.828 m in
from both supports.

Grade of steel
Number Diameter 2H12 (hanger bars)
of links of links

7H8 at 150 13H8 at 300 7H8 at 150

H8 links

Centre-to-centre
distance between
links 4H25

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 Beams

3.9.1.4 Deflection (clause 3.4.6, BS 8110) Table 3.14 Basic span /effective depth ratio
In addition to checking that failure of the member for rectangular or flanged beams (Table 3.9,
does not arise due to the ultimate limit states of BS 8110)
bending and shear, the designer must ensure that
the deflections under working loads do not adversely Support conditions Rectangular Flanged beams with
affect either the efficiency or appearance of the sections width of beam
≤ 0.3
structure. BS 8110 describes the following criteria width of flange
for ensuring the proper performance of rectangular
beams: Cantilever 7 5.6
1. Final deflection should not exceed span/250. Simply supported 20 16.0
2. Deflection after construction of finishes and Continuous 26 20.8
partitions should not exceed span/500 or 20 mm,
whichever is the lesser, for spans up to 10 m.
Table 3.15 Modification factors for compression
However, it is rather difficult to make accurate reinforcement (Table 3.11, BS 8110)
predictions of the deflections that may arise in con-
crete members principally because the member may 100 A ′s , prov Factor
be cracked under working loads and the degree bd
of restraint at the supports is uncertain. Therefore,
BS 8110 uses an approximate method based on 0.00 1.0
permissible ratios of the span/effective depth. Before 0.15 1.05
discussing this method in detail it is worth clarifying 0.25 1.08
what is meant by the effective span of a beam. 0.35 1.10
0.5 1.14
(i) Effective span (clause 3.4.1.2, BS 8110). All 0.75 1.20
calculations relating to beam design should be based 1 1.25
on the effective span of the beam. For a simply 1.5 1.33
supported beam this should be taken as the lesser 2.0 1.40
of (1) the distance between centres of bearings, A, 2.5 1.45
or (2) the clear distance between supports, D, plus ≥ 3.0 1.5
the effective depth, d, of the beam (Fig. 3.25). For
a continuous beam the effective span should nor-
mally be taken as the distance between the centres 10/span (except for cantilevers). The basic ratios
of supports.
may be further modified by factors taken from
Tables 3.15 and 3.16, depending upon the amount
(ii) Span/effective depth ratio. Generally, the of compression and tension reinforcement respect-
deflection criteria in (1) and (2) above will be satis-
ively. Deflection is usually critical in the design of
fied provided that the span/effective depth ratio of slabs rather than beams and, therefore, modifica-
the beam does not exceed the appropriate limiting tions factors will be discussed more fully in the
values given in Table 3.14. The reader is referred
context of slab design (section 3.10).
to the Handbook to BS 8110 which outlines the
basis of this approach. 3.9.1.5 Member sizing
The span/effective depth ratio given in the table
The dual concepts of span/effective depth ratio and
apply to spans up to 10 m long. Where the span maximum design concrete shear stress can be used
exceeds 10 m, these ratios should be multiplied by not only to assess the performance of members
with respect to deflection and shear but also for
d preliminary sizing of members. Table 3.17 gives
modified span/effective depth ratios for estimating
the effective depth of a concrete beam provided
D
that its span is known. The width of the beam
A can then be determined by limiting the max-
imum design concrete shear stress to around (say)
Fig. 3.25 Effective span of simply supported beam. 1.2 Nmm−2.
57

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 Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110

Table 3.16 Modification factors for tension reinforcement (based on Table 3.10, BS 8110)

Service stress M/bd 2

0.50 0.75 1.00 1.50 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00 6.00

100 2.00 2.00 2.00 1.86 1.63 1.36 1.19 1.08 1.01
150 2.00 2.00 1.98 1.69 1.49 1.25 1.11 1.01 0.94
( fy = 250) 167 2.00 2.00 1.91 1.63 1.44 1.21 1.08 0.99 0.92
200 2.00 1.95 1.76 1.51 1.35 1.14 1.02 0.94 0.88
250 1.90 1.70 1.55 1.34 1.20 1.04 0.94 0.87 0.82
300 1.60 1.44 1.33 1.16 1.06 0.93 0.85 0.80 0.76
( fy = 500) 323 1.41 1.28 1.18 1.05 0.96 0.86 0.79 0.75 0.72

Note 1. The values in the table derive from the equation:

(477 − fs )
Modification factor = 0.55 + ≤ 2.0 (equation 7)
 M
120  0.9 + 2 
 bd 
where
fs is the design service stress in the tension reinforcement
M is the design ultimate moment at the centre of the span or, for a cantilever, at the support.
Note 2. The design service stress in the tension reinforcement may be estimated from the equation:
5* f A 1
× y s,req ×
fs = (equation 8)
8 As,prov βb
where β b is the percentage of moment redistribution, equal to 1 for simply supported beams.
* As pointed out in Reynolds RC Designers Handbook the term 5/8 which is applicable to γ ms = 1.15 is given incorrectly as 2/3
in BS 8110 which is applicable to γ ms = 1.05.

Table 3.17 Span /effective depth ratios for

initial design

Support condition Span/effective depth

Cantilever 6
Simply supported 12
Continuous 15

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 Beams

Example 3.4 Sizing a concrete beam (BS 8110)

A simply supported beam has an effective span of 8 m and supports characteristic dead (gk) and live (qk) loads of
15 kNm−1 and 10 kNm−1 respectively. Determine suitable dimensions for the effective depth and width of the beam.

q k = 10 kN m−1
g k = 15 kN m−1

8m

From Table 3.17, span/effective depth ratio for a simply supported beam is 12. Hence effective depth, d, is
span 8000
d = = ≈ 670 mm
12 12
Total ultimate load = (1.4gk + 1.6qk)span = (1.4 × 15 + 1.6 × 10)8 = 296 kN
Design shear force (V ) = 296/2 = 148 kN and design shear force, υ, is
V 148 × 103
υ= =
bd 670b
Assuming υ is equal to 1.2 Nmm−2, this gives a beam width, b, of
V 148 × 103
b= = = 185 mm
dυ 670 × 1.2
Hence a beam of width 185 mm and effective depth 670 mm would be suitable to support the given design loads.

3.9.1.6 Reinforcement details (clause 3.12, 0.24%bh ≤ As ≤ 4%bh when fy = 250 Nmm−2
BS 8110)
The previous sections have covered much of the 0.13%bh ≤ As ≤ 4%bh when fy = 500 Nmm−2
theory required to design singly reinforced con-
crete beams. However, there are a number of code 2. Spacing of reinforcement (clause 3.12.11.1,
provisions with regard to: BS 8110). BS 8110 specifies minimum and max-
imum distances between tension reinforcement.
1. maximum and minimum reinforcement areas
The actual limits vary, depending upon the grade
2. spacing of reinforcement of reinforcement. The minimum distance is based
3. curtailment and anchorage of reinforcement on the need to achieve good compaction of the con-
4. lapping of reinforcement.
crete around the reinforcement. The limits on the
These need to be taken into account since they maximum distance between bars arise from the need
may affect the final design. to ensure that the maximum crack width does not
exceed 0.3 mm in order to prevent corrosion of
1. Reinforcement areas (clause 3.12.5.3 and embedded bars (section 3.8).
3.12.6.1, BS 8110). As pointed out in section 3.8, For singly reinforced simply supported beams
there is a need to control cracking of the concrete the clear horizontal distance between tension bars,
because of durability and aesthetics. This is usually sb, should lie within the following limits:
achieved by providing minimum areas of reinforce-
ment in the member. However, too large an area hagg + 5 mm or bar size ≤ sb ≤ 280 mm
of reinforcement should also be avoided since it when fy = 250 Nmm−2
will hinder proper placing and adequate compaction hagg + 5 mm or bar size ≤ sb ≤ 155 mm
of the concrete around the reinforcement. when fy = 500 Nmm−2
For rectangular beams with overall dimensions b
and h, the area of tension reinforcement, As, should where hagg is the maximum size of the coarse
lie within the following limits: aggregate.
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 Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110
ω Cut-off 50% of bars

x = 0.146ᐉ
50% 100% 50%
ᐉ
A s /2 As A s /2

A B
0.08ᐉ 0.08ᐉ
ᐉ
ωᐉ 2 ωᐉ 2
ωᐉ 2 16
1.6 (a)
8
0.25ᐉ
Fig. 3.26 0.15ᐉ 100%
⬍45ø
3. Curtailment and anchorage of bars (clause 30% 60% 30%
3.12.9, BS 8110). The design process for simply
supported beams, in particular the calculations re- 100%
lating to the design moment and area of bending
reinforcement, is concentrated at mid-span. How- 0.1ᐉ 0.15ᐉ
ᐉ
ever, the bending moment decreases either side of
the mid-span and it follows, therefore, that it should (b)
be possible to reduce the corresponding area of
bending reinforcement by curtailing bars. For the Fig. 3.27 Simplified rules for curtailment of bars in
beam shown in Fig. 3.26, theoretically 50 per cent beams: (a) simply supported ends; (b) continuous beam.
of the main steel can be curtailed at points A and
B. However, in order to develop the design stress
in the reinforcement (i.e. 0.87fy at mid-span), these d
+ 12Φ
12Φ 2
bars must be anchored into the concrete. Except at
end supports, this is normally achieved by extend- CL
ing the bars beyond the point at which they are
theoretically no longer required, by a distance equal
to the greater of (i) the effective depth of the mem-
ber and (ii) 12 times the bar size.
Where a bar is stopped off in the tension zone,
e.g. beam shown in Fig. 3.26, this distance should
be increased to the full anchorage bond length in (a) (b)
accordance with the values given in Table 3.18.
However, simplified rules for the curtailment of Fig. 3.28 Anchorage requirements at simple supports.
bars are given in clause 3.12.10.2 of BS 8110. These
are shown diagrammatically in Fig. 3.27 for simply
supported and continuous beams. not begin before the centre of the support for rule
The code also gives rules for the anchorage of (a) or before d/2 from the face of the support for
bars at supports. Thus, at a simply supported end rule (b).
each tension bar will be properly anchored provided
the bar extends a length equal to one of the fol- 4. Laps in reinforcement (clause 3.12.8, BS
lowing: (a) 12 times the bar size beyond the centre 8110). It is not possible nor, indeed, practicable
line of the support, or (b) 12 times the bar size to construct the reinforcement cage for an indi-
plus d/2 from the face of the support (Fig. 3.28). vidual element or structure without joining some
Sometimes it is not possible to use straight bars of the bars. This is normally achieved by lapping
due to limitations of space and, in this case, an- bars (Fig. 3.30). Bars which have been joined in
chorage must be provided by using hooks or bends this way must act as a single length of bar. This
in the reinforcement. The anchorage values of hooks means that the lap length should be sufficiently
and bends are shown in Fig. 3.29. Where hooks or long in order that stresses in one bar can be trans-
bends are provided, BS 8110 states that they should ferred to the other.
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 Beams

4Φ
Table 3.18 Anchorage lengths as multiples of
Φ +r bar size (based on Table 3.27, BS 8110)
(a)
LA

4Φ fcu = 25 30 35 40
or more
r
Φ + Plain (250)
(b) Tension 43 39 36 34
Compression 34 32 29 27
For mild steel bars minimum r = 2Φ Deformed Type 1 (500)
For high yield bars minimum r = 3Φ or Tension 55 50 47 44
4Φ for sizes 25 mm and above Compression 44 40 38 35
Deformed Type 2 (500)
Fig. 3.29 Anchorage lengths for hooks and bends
Tension 44 40 38 35
(a) anchorage length for 90° bend = 4r but not greater
than 12φ; (b) anchorage length for hook = 8r but not Compression 35 32 30 28
greater than 24φ.

tension anchorage length, but will often need to

be increased as outlined in clause 3.12.8.13 of
BS 8110. The anchorage length (L) is calculated
Lap

using
Starter bars
L = LA × Φ (3.17)
Kicker
where
d
Φ is the diameter of the (smaller) bar
LA is obtained from Table 3.18 and depends
Fig. 3.30 Lap lengths. upon the stress type, grade of concrete and
reinforcement type.
The minimum lap length should not be less For compression laps the lap length should
than 15 times the bar diameter or 300 mm. For be at least 1.25 times the compression anchorage
tension laps it should normally be equal to the length.

Example 3.5 Design of a simply supported concrete beam (BS 8110)

A reinforced concrete beam which is 300 mm wide and 600 mm deep is required to span 6.0 m between the centres
of supporting piers 300 mm wide (Fig. 3.31). The beam carries dead and imposed loads of 25 kNm−1 and 19 kNm−1
respectively. Assuming fcu = 30 Nmm−2, fy = fyv = 500 Nmm−2 and the exposure class is XC1, design the beam.

q k = 19 kN m−1
A h = 600
g k = 25 kN m−1
300 A 300
6m
b = 300
Section A–A

Fig. 3.31

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 Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110

Example 3.5 continued

DESIGN MOMENT, M
Loading
Dead
Self weight of beam = 0.6 × 0.3 × 24 = 4.32 kNm−1
Total dead load (gk) = 25 + 4.32 = 29.32 kNm−1

Imposed
Total imposed load (qk) = 19 kNm−1

Ultimate load
Total ultimate load (W ) = (1.4gk + 1.6qk)span
= (1.4 × 29.32 + 1.6 × 19)6
= 428.7 kN

Design moment
Wb 428.7 × 6
Maximum design moment (M ) = = = 321.5 kN m
8 8

ULTIMATE MOMENT OF RESISTANCE, MU

Effective depth, d

Φ/2
Φ′
c

Assume diameter of main bars (Φ) = 25 mm

Assume diameter of links (Φ′) = 8 mm
From Table 3.6, cover for exposure class XC1 = 15 + ∆c = 25 mm.
d = h − c − Φ′ − Φ/2
= 600 − 25 − 8 − 25/2 = 554 mm

Ultimate moment
Mu = 0.156fcubd 2 = 0.156 × 30 × 300 × 5542
= 430.9 × 106 Nmm = 430.9 kNm > M
Since Mu > M no compression reinforcement is required.
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 Beams

Example 3.5 continued

MAIN STEEL, A s
M 321.5 × 106
K = = = 0.116
fcubd 2 30 × 300 × 5542
z = d [0.5 + (0.25 − K /0.9)] = 554[0.5 + (0.25 − 0.116/0.9)] = 470 mm
M 321.5 × 106
As = = = 1573 mm2
0.87f y z 0.87 × 500 × 470
Hence from Table 3.10, provide 4H25 (A s = 1960 mm2).

SHEAR REINFORCEMENT
W

RA RB
V

Ultimate design load, W = 428.7 kN

Shear stress, υ
Since beam is symmetrically loaded
RA = RB = W/2 = 214.4 kN
Ultimate shear force (V ) = 214.4 kN and design shear stress, υ, is
V 214.4 × 103
υ= = = 1.29 Nmm−2 < permissible = 0.8 30 = 4.38 Nmm−2
bd 300 × 554

Design concrete shear stress, υc

100 A s 100 × 1960
= = 1.18
bd 300 × 554
From Table 3.11,
υc = (30/25)1/3 × 0.66 = 0.70 Nmm−2

Diameter and spacing of links

Where υ < (υc + 0.4) = 0.7 + 0.4 = 1.1 Nmm−2, nominal links are required according to
A sn 0.4b 0.4 × 300
= = = 0.276
sn 0.87f yn 0.87 × 500
Hence from Table 3.13, provide H8 links at 300 mm centres where υ < 1.10 Nmm−2, i.e. 2.558 m either side of the
mid-span of beam.
v = 1.29 N mm−2

x 3
3m 3m = = 2.558 m
1.10 1.29
x
v

x
1.10 N mm−2

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 Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110

Example 3.5 continued

Where υ > (υc + 0.4) = 1.10 Nmm−2 design links required according to
A sn b (υ − υc ) 300(1.29 − 0.70)
= = = 0.407
sn 0.87f yn 0.87 × 500
Maximum spacing of links is 0.75d = 0.75 × 554 = 416 mm. Hence from Table 3.13, provide 8 mm diameter links at
225 mm centres (A sv/s v = 0.447) where v > 1.10 Nmm−2, i.e. 0.442 m in from both supports.
EFFECTIVE SPAN
The above calculations were based on an effective span of 6 m, but this needs to be confirmed. As stated in section
3.9.1.4, the effective span is the lesser of (1) centre-to-centre distance between support, i.e. 6 m, and (2) clear
distance between supports plus the effective depth, i.e. 5700 + 554 = 6254 mm. Therefore assumed span length of
6 m is correct.
DEFLECTION
Actual span/effective depth ratio = 6000/554 = 10.8
M 321.5 × 106
= = 3.5
bd 2 300 × 5542
and from equation 8 (Table 3.16)
5 A s,req 5 1573
fs = × fy × = × 500 ×
= 251 Nmm−2
8 A s,prov 8 1960
From Table 3.14, basic span/effective depth ratio for a simply supported beam is 20 and from Table 3.16, modification
factor ≈ 0.97. Hence permissible span/effective depth ratio = 20 × 0.97 = 19 > actual (= 10.8) and the beam therefore
satisfies the deflection criteria in BS 8110.

REINFORCEMENT DETAILS
The sketch below shows the main reinforcement requirements for the beam. For reasons of buildability, the actual
reinforcement details may well be slightly different and the reader is referred to the following publications for further
information on this point:
1. Designed and Detailed (BS 8110: 1997), Higgins, J.B. and Rogers, B.R., British Cement Association, 1989.
2. Standard Method of Detailing Structural Concrete, the Concrete Society and the Institution of Structural Engin-
eers, London, 1989.

4H8 at 225 14H8 at 300 4H8 at 225

H12
300 mm 5700 mm 300 mm
H8 links
2H12
H25

r = 100 mm 100 mm
H8 links 554 mm

46 mm
4H25
150 mm
300 mm CL of support

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 Beams

Example 3.6 Analysis of a singly reinforced concrete beam (BS 8110)

A singly reinforced concrete beam in which fcu = 30 Nmm−2 and fy = 500 Nmm−2 contains 1960 mm2 of tension
reinforcement (Fig. 3.32). If the effective span is 7 m and the density of reinforced concrete is 24 kNm−3, calculate the
maximum imposed load that the beam can carry assuming that the load is (a) uniformly distributed and (b) occurs as
a point load at mid-span.

b = 300

h = 500
4H25
(A s = 1960 mm2)
30 mm cover

Fig. 3.32

(A) MAXIMUM UNIFORMLY DISTRIBUTED IMPOSED LOAD, qk

Moment capacity of section, M

b εcu = 0.0035 0.67fcu/γγ mc

x 0.9x Fcc

d
z

Fst
ε st

fv/γms = 500/1.15

200 kNmm–2

εy

Effective depth, d, is
d = h − cover − φ/2 = 500 − 30 − 25/2 = 457 mm
For equilibrium Fcc = Fst
0.67fcu
0.9xb = 0.87fy A s (assuming the steel has yielded)
g mc
0.67 × 30
0.9 × x × 300 = 0.87 × 500 × 1960 ⇒ x = 236 mm
1.5
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 Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110

Example 3.6 continued

ε cc ε st
From similar triangles =
x d −x
0.0035 ε st
= ⇒ ε st = 0.0033
236 457 − 236
f y /γ ms 500/1.15
εy = = = 0.00217 < ε st
Es 200 × 106
Therefore the steel has yielded and the steel stress is 0.87fy as assumed.
Lever arm, z, is
z = d − 0.45x = 457 − 0.45 × 236 = 351 mm
Moment capacity, M, is
0.67fcu
M= 0.9xbz
γ mc
 0.67 × 30  −6
M=   0.9 × 236 × 300 × 351 × 10 = 299.7 kNm
 1.5 

Maximum uniformly distributed imposed load, qk

qk
gk

7m

Dead load
Self weight of beam (gk) = 0.5 × 0.3 × 24 = 3.6 kNm−1

Ultimate load
Total ultimate load (W ) = (1.4gk + 1.6qk)span
= (1.4 × 3.6 + 1.6qk)7

Imposed load
WB (5.04 + 1.6qk )72
Maximum design moment (M ) = = = 299.7 kNm (from above)
8 8
Hence the maximum uniformly distributed imposed load the beam can support is
(299.7 × 8)/72 − 5.04
qk = = 27.4 kNm−1
1.6

(B) MAXIMUM POINT LOAD AT MID-SPAN, Q k

Qk

g k = 3.6 kN m−1 (from above)

7m

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 Beams

Example 3.6 continued

Loading
Ultimate load
Ultimate dead load (WD) = 1.4gk × span = 1.4 × 3.6 × 7 = 35.3 kN
Ultimate imposed load (WI) = 1.6Qk

Imposed load
Maximum design moment, M, is
WD b WIb 35.3 × 7 1.6Q k × 7
M = + (Example 2.5, beam B1–B3) = + = 299.7 kNm (from above)
8 4 8 4
Hence the maximum point load which the beam can support at mid-span is
(299.7 − 35.3 × 7/8)4
Qk = = 96 kN
1.6 × 7

3.9.2 DOUBLY REINFORCED BEAM DESIGN 3.9.2.1 Compression and tensile steel areas
If the design moment is greater than the ultimate (clause 3.4.4.4, BS 8110)
moment of resistance, i.e. M > Mu, or K > K′ The area of compression steel (As′) is calculated
where K = M/fcubd 2 and K′ = Mu /fcubd 2 the con- from
crete will have insufficient strength in compression M − Mu
to generate this moment and maintain an under- A′s = (3.18)
reinforced mode of failure. 0. 87f y (d − d ′)
where d ′ is the depth of the compression steel from
Area of concrete the compression face (Fig. 3.33).
in compression The area of tension reinforcement is calculated
from
Neutral axis
Mu
As = + A ′s (3.19)
0.87 f y z
where z = d [0.5 + ( 0.25 − K′ /0.9)] and K ′ = 0.156.
Equations 3.18 and 3.19 can be derived using
The required compressive strength can be the stress block shown in Fig. 3.33. This is basic-
achieved by increasing the proportions of the beam, ally the same stress block used in the analysis of a
particularly its overall depth. However, this may singly reinforced section (Fig. 3.17) except for the
not always be possible due to limitations on the additional compression force (Fsc) in the steel.
headroom in the structure, and in such cases it will In the derivation of equations 3.18 and 3.19 it is
be necessary to provide reinforcement in the com- assumed that the compression steel has yielded (i.e.
pression face. The compression reinforcement will design stress = 0.87fy) and this condition will be
be designed to resist the moment in excess of Mu. met only if
This will ensure that the compressive stress in the
concrete does not exceed the permissible value and d′ d′ d −z
≤ 0.37 or ≤ 0.19 where x =
ensure an under-reinforced failure mode. x d 0.45
Beams which contain tension and compression
reinforcement are termed doubly reinforced. They If d ′/x > 0.37, the compression steel will not
are generally designed in the same way as singly have yielded and, therefore, the compressive stress
reinforced beams except in respect of the calcula- will be less than 0.87fy. In such cases, the design
tions needed to determine the areas of tension and stress can be obtained using Fig. 3.9.
compression reinforcement. This aspect is discussed
below.
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 Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110

b 0.0035 0.45f cu

Fsc
d′
A ′s x = d /2 s = 0.9x
Fcc
Neutral
d axis z
ε sc

As
ε st Fst

Section Strains Stress block

Fig. 3.33 Section with compression reinforcement.

Example 3.7 Design of bending reinforcement for a doubly reinforced

beam (BS 8110)
The reinforced concrete beam shown in Fig. 3.34 has an effective span of 9 m and carries uniformly distributed dead
(including self weight of beam) and imposed loads of 4 and 5 kNm−1 respectively. Design the bending reinforcement
assuming the following:
fcu = 30 Nmm−2
fy = 500 Nmm−2
Cover to main steel = 40 mm

q k = 5 kN m−1 h = 370 mm
A
g k = 4 kN m−1
A
9m

b = 230 mm
Section A–A

Fig. 3.34

DESIGN MOMENT, M
Loading

Ultimate load
Total ultimate load (W) = (1.4gk + 1.6qk)span
= (1.4 × 4 + 1.6 × 5)9 = 122.4 kN

Design moment
Wb 122.4 × 9
Maximum design moment (M ) = = = 137.7 kNm
8 8
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 Beams

Example 3.7 continued

ULTIMATE MOMENT OF RESISTANCE, Mu

Effective depth, d
Assume diameter of tension bars (Φ) = 25 mm:
d = h − Φ/2 − cover
= 370 − 25/2 − 40 = 317 mm

Ultimate moment
Mu = 0.156fcubd 2
= 0.156 × 30 × 230 × 3172
= 108.2 × 106 Nmm = 108.2 kNm
Since M > Mu compression reinforcement is required.

COMPRESSION REINFORCEMENT
Assume diameter of compression bars (φ) = 16 mm. Hence
d′ = cover + φ/2 = 40 + 16/2 = 48 mm
z = d [0.5 + ( 0.25 − K ′/0.9)] = 317 [0.5 + ( 0.25 − 0.156/0.9)] = 246 mm
d − z 317 − 246
x = = = 158 mm
0.45 0.45
d′ 48
= = 0.3 < 0.37, i.e. compression steel has yielded.
x 158
M − Mu (137.7 − 108.210
) 6
A ′s = = = 252 mm2
0.87f y (d − d ′) 0.87 × 500(317 − 48)
Hence from Table 3.10, provide 2H16 (A s′ = 402 mm2)

(III) TENSION REINFORCEMENT

Mu 108.2 × 106
As = + A ′s = + 252 = 1263 mm2
0.87f y z 0.87 × 500 × 246
Hence provide 3H25 (A s = 1470 mm2).

2H16
d ′ = 48

d = 317

3H25

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 Design in reinforced concrete to BS 8110

0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5

14
x /d = 0.3
4.0 x /d = 0.4
13 2.0
1.5 x /d = 0.5
12
11
1.0
10
9
M /bd 2 (N mm−2)

8 0.5
b

100A ′s / bd
7 d′
x A′s
6 0 d
5
As
4
3
2 f cu 30
fy 500
1
d ′/d 0.15

0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5

100A s /bd

Fig. 3.35 Design chart for doubly reinforced beams (based on chart 7, BS 8110: Part 3).

Using the figures given in Example 3.7, Mu =

3.9.2.2 Design charts 108.2 kNm < M = 137.7 kNm
Rather than solving equations 3.18 and 3.19 it is Since d ′/d (= 48/317) = 0.15 and fcu = 30 N/mm2,
possible to determine the area of tension and com- chart 7 is appropriate. Furthermore, since the beam
pression reinforcement simply by using the design is simply supported, no redistribution of moments
charts for doubly reinforced beams given in Part 3 is possible, therefore, use x/d = 0.5 construction
of BS 8110. Such charts are available for design line in order to determine areas of reinforcement.
involving the use of concrete grades 25, 30, 35,
M 137.7 × 106
40, 45 and 50 and d ′/d ratios of 0.1, 0.15 and = = 5.95
0.2. Unfortunately, as previously mentioned, BSI bd 2
230 × 3172
issued these charts when grade 460 steel was the 100A s′/bd = 0.33 ⇒ A s′ = 243 mm2
norm rather than grade 500 and, therefore, use of
these charts will overestimate the steel areas by 100As /bd = 1.72 ⇒ As = 1254 mm2
around 10 per cent. Fig. 3.35 presents a modified Hence from Table 3.10, provide 2H16 compres-
version of chart 7 for grade 500 reinforcement. sion steel and 3H25 tension steel.
The design procedure involves the following
steps:
3.9.3 CONTINUOUS, L AND T BEAMS
1. Check Mu < M. In most real situations, the beams in buildings are
2. Calculate d ′/d. seldom single span but continuous over the sup-
3. Select appropriate chart from Part 3 of BS 8110 ports, e.g. beams 1, 2, 3 and 4 in Fig. 3.36(a). The
based on grade of concrete and d ′/d ratio. design process for such beams is similar to that
4. Calculate M/bd 2. outlined above for single span beams. However,
5. Plot M/bd 2 ratio on chart and read off corres- the main difference arises from the fact that with
ponding 100A s′/bd and 100A s /bd values (Fig. continuous beams the designer will need to con-
3.35) sider the various loading arrangements discussed
6. Calculate A s′ and As. in section 3.6.2 in order to determine the design
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