REINFORCED CONCRETE

STRUCTURES II
 CHAPTER ONE
Inelastic Analysis of Continuous
Beams and Moment
Redistribution
Introduction
In the design of reinforced concrete structures, the inelastic behavior of materials
plays a crucial role in ensuring safety, economy, and performance.
Unlike elastic analysis, which assumes that materials behave linearly up to
failure, inelastic analysis accounts for the redistribution of moments due to plastic
deformation in critical regions of a structure.
This is particularly important in continuous beams, where support and span
moments can redistribute as sections reach their ultimate moment capacities.
Moment redistribution is the process of adjusting internal forces within a
structure to reflect its inelastic behavior, allowing a more realistic assessment of
structural performance under ultimate loads.

This approach enhances design efficiency by enabling more uniform utilization of

a structure’s strength. It takes advantage of the ductility of materials, particularly
steel reinforcement, and allows the formation of plastic hinges that absorb energy
and provide stability beyond the elastic limit.

16-Jan-25 3
Cont..
ES EN1992:2014 and similar standards recognize the benefits of inelastic
analysis and moment redistribution.
They provide guidelines for designing continuous beams and frames by
allowing controlled redistribution of moments, subject to certain limitations on
ductility, reinforcement ratios, and strain compatibility.
These guidelines ensure that redistributed moments do not compromise safety
or lead to premature failure mechanisms such as brittle fracture or shear
collapse.

16-Jan-25 4
Methods of analysis allowed in
ES EN1992:2014
 Methods of Analysis Allowed in ES EN1992:2014
• The Ethiopian Standard ES EN 1992:2014, based on Eurocode 2 (EN 1992-
1-1:2004), provides guidelines for the structural analysis of reinforced
concrete (RC) structures. It allows different methods of analysis depending
on the complexity of the structure, type of loading, and desired accuracy.
1. Linear Elastic Analysis (Section: 5.4)
Based on the theory of elasticity.
Suitable for both SLS and ULS.
Assumption:
i. Un-cracked cross sections
ii. linear stress-strain (ε vs σ) relationships and,
iii. mean values of the elastic modulus [E].
For thermal deformation, settlement and shrinkage effects at the (ULS) ,a reduced
stiffness corresponding to the cracked sections may be assumed.
For the (SLS) gradual evolution of cracking should be considered (eg. rigorous
deflection calculation)
16-Jan-25 6
Cont..
2. Linear Elastic Analysis with Limited Redistribution (Section 5.5)
Suitable for ULS.
The moments at ULS calculated using a linear elastic analysis may be redistributed, provided that the
resulting distribution of moments remains in equilibrium with the applied loads.
In continuous beams or slabs which:
are predominantly subject to flexure and
have the ratio of the lengths of adjacent spans in the range of 0,5 to 2,
redistribution of bending moments may be carried out without explicit check on the rotation capacity, provided that:
δ ≥ k1 + k2 xu/d for fck ≤ 50 Mpa 5.10a
δ ≥ k3 + k4 xu/d for fck > 50 Mpa 5.10b
≥ k5 where Class B and Class C reinforcement is used
≥ k6 where Class A reinforcement is used.
In these expressions for the redistribution of bending moments, Recommended value for k1=0.44, k2=1.25(0.6
+ 0.0014/εcu2), k3=0.54, k4=1.25(0.6 + 0.0014/εcu2), k5=0.7, k6=0.8. Where εcu2 is the ultimate strain
From the recommendation value we have:
δ ≥ 0.44 + 1.25 xu/d for fck ≤ 50 Mpa
δ ≥ 0.54 + 1.25 xu/d for fck > 50 Mpa
≥ k5 where Class B and Class C reinforcement is used
≥ k6 where Class A reinforcement is used
By taking εcu2 = 0.0035
16-Jan-25 7
Cont..
3. Plastic Analysis (Section 5.6)
Methods based on plastic analysis shall only be used for the check at ULS
Suitable for SLS if compatibility is ensured.
Assumes formation of plastic hinges and uses collapse mechanisms for
ultimate limit state (ULS) analysis.
Based on redistribution of internal forces until failure.
4. Non-linear Analysis (Section 5.7)
Nonlinear analysis may be used for both ULS and SLS, provided that
equilibrium and compatibility are satisfied and an adequate non-linear
behavior for materials is assumed.
The non-linear analysis procedures are more complex and therefore very
time consuming.
The analysis maybe first Or second order.

16-Jan-25 8
Moment Curvature
Relationship
 Moment Curvature Relationship
• For a beam with homogeneous cross-section, which is loaded in bending is shown
below.

Beam loaded in bending

Segment of the beam Relationship between bending
loaded in bending moment M and curvature K for
beam with linear elastic
homogeneous material

 But is Concrete a Homogenous, elastic material?

16-Jan-25 10
Curvature: Introduction
𝑀
𝐾= ……… from Elastic Theory
𝐸.𝐼
Where:
E= the modulus of elasticity
I=the moment of inertia of the cross-section
K=the local curvature=1/R

16-Jan-25 11
 Curvature: RC section
• Reinforced concrete is not homogeneous because it is composed of steel and concrete
which have different values for the elastic modulus; however, it is possible to identify
an equivalent homogeneous concrete section with an equivalent moment of inertia.

Un-cracked
 This is done by means of an
equivalent transformed cross section
 To have the same material property
of concrete across the RC section the
reinforcement is transformed in to an
equivalent concrete area using the
modular ratio n=Es/Ec

Fully-cracked

16-Jan-25 12
Cont..
• The curve M-K may be calculated for every given cross-section in reinforced
concrete; this is typically done by the calculation of some salient points:
A Typical M-K diagram for a RC section.
 A. M and K just before the appearance
of the flexural crack in the cross-section
 B. M and K just after the appearance of the
flexural crack
 C. M and K when steel start to yield
 D. M and K when failure is reached (normally
due to the crushing of the compression concrete)

16-Jan-25 13
 Basic Assumption and Consideration
Basic Assumptions
Parabolic-rectangular stress block for concrete in compression is assumed.
Tensile strength of concrete is neglected.
Plane section remains plane before and after bending.
Elasto-Plastic stress strain relationship is assumed for reinforcement steel in tension.
Steel is perfectly bonded with concrete.
Basic Considerations
Equilibrium of forces shall be maintained.
Compatibility of Strains shall be maintained.
Stress-Strain relationship has to be satisfied

16-Jan-25 14
Procedures in Establishing the M-K Relationship
The general steps to be followed in computing the moment curvature
relationship of RC section are as follows.
1. Assume the strain of the outer most fiber of concrete.[εc ]
2. Assume the N.A. depth. [x]
3. From the linear strain distribution across the section compute the strain
of the reinforcement bar in tension and the corresponding stress in it.
[εs1 and 𝜎s1 ]
4. Compute the total compressive and tensile forces. [Cc andTs ]
5. Check equilibrium of forces.[Cc =Ts orCc ≠Ts ]
6. Determine lever arm [z] and calculate the moment [M] and the
corresponding curvature [K].

16-Jan-25 15
Example 1.1
Problem: For RC beam section with b/h=200/400mm, casted out of C20/25 concrete
and reinforced by s-400. determine the moment curvature relationship of the section?
a) 3φ14
b) 3φ24
[Use cover to longitudinal reinforcement bar 33mm]
• Solution: a) 3φ14

Step1: Summarize the given parameters S-400; fyk =400MPa; fyd =347.83MPa
Material C20/25 fck =20MPa; • Es =200,000MPa; εy=1.74‰
fc𝑑 =11.33MPa; • Modular ratio, n= Es /Ecm =6.67
fc𝑡𝑚 =2.2MPa; Ecm =30,000MPa • Geometry d=h-cover- φ/2=400-33-7=360mm
• As1 =3 × π×(7mm) 2 =461.81mm2

16-Jan-25 16
Cont..
• Step 2: Compute the cracking moment and corresponding curvature. [Mcr,
Kcr]
I. Un-cracked section properties
The neutral axis depth of the un-cracked section
𝐴1 = 𝑏 × ℎ = 200 × 400 = 80000𝑚𝑚2
𝐴1 = 𝑛 − 1 × 𝐴𝑠1 = 6.67 − 1 × 461.81 = 2618.46 𝑚𝑚2
And considering the top fiber as a reference axis
ℎ
𝑥1 = = 200𝑚𝑚
2
𝑥2 = 𝑑 = 360𝑚𝑚
Therefore
σ 𝐴𝐼 𝑥𝑖 𝐴1 × 𝑥1 + 𝐴2 × 𝑥2
𝑥= = = 205.07 𝑚𝑚
σ 𝑥𝑖 𝑥1 + 𝑥2
The second moment of the area of the un-cracked section
𝑏ℎ3 200 × 4003
𝐼1 = = = 1066666666.67 𝑚𝑚4
12 12
17
𝐼2 =0 16-Jan-25
Cont..
𝐴1 = 𝑏 × ℎ = 200 × 400 = 800000 𝑚𝑚2
𝐴2 = 𝑛 − 1 × 𝐴𝑠1 = 6.67 − 1 × 461.81 = 2618.46 𝑚𝑚2
ℎ
𝑦1 = 𝑥 − = 205.07 − 200 = 5.07 𝑚𝑚
2
𝑦2 = d − x = 360 − 205.07 = 154.93 mm
Therefore
𝐼𝐼 = 𝐼1 +𝐼2 + 𝐴1 × 𝑦1 2 + 𝐴2 × 𝑦2 2
𝐼𝐼 = 1066666666.67 + 0 + 80000 × 5.072 + 2618.46 × 154.932
𝐼𝐼 = 1131574752.42 𝑚𝑚4
II. Cracked section properties
The neutral axis depth of the cracked section
From equilibrium of forces carried by the concrete
in the compression zone and the tension force
carried by the transformed concrete area in tension
we have the following expression.
1
𝑏(𝑘𝑥 𝑑) 2 = 𝑛𝐴𝑠1 (𝑑 − 𝑘𝑥 𝑑)
2

16-Jan-25 18
Cont..
Dividing the above expression by 𝑏𝑑 2 and denoting = A/bd results in:
𝑥
𝑘𝑥 = = −[n]+ [n]2 +2[n]
𝑑
n = 6.67
461.81
= = 0.006414
360 × 200
𝑥 = 0.258𝑑 = 91.023 𝑚𝑚
The second moment of the area of the cracked section
𝑏𝑥 3 200 × 91.0233
𝐼1 = = = 12569042.224 𝑚𝑚4
12 12
𝐼2 = 0
𝐴1 = 𝑏 × ℎ = 200 × 91.023 = 18204.6 𝑚𝑚2
𝐴2 = 𝑛𝐴𝑠1 = 6.67 × 461.81 = 3080.27 𝑚𝑚2
𝑥
𝑦1 = 𝑥 − = 45.5115 𝑚𝑚
2
𝑦2 = d − x = 360 − 91.023 = 268.977 mm
Therefore
𝐼𝐼 = 𝐼1 +𝐼2 + 𝐴1 × 𝑦1 2 + 𝐴2 × 𝑦2 2
𝐼𝐼 = 12569042.224 + 0 + 18204.6 × 45.51152 + 3080.27 × 268.9772
𝐼𝐼 = 273129472.51 𝑚𝑚4
16-Jan-25 19
Cont..
III. Compute the cracking moment
fctm II
Mcr =
yt
yt = h − x = 400 − 205.07 = 194.93 mm
Therefore
2.2 × 1131574752.42
Mcr = = 12.77kNm
194.93
IV. Compute the curvature just before cracking
Mcr 12770000 Nmm
k cr = = N = 0.3767 × 10−6 mm−1
Ec II 30000 2 ×1131574752.42 mm4
mm

V. Compute the curvature just after cracking

Mcr 12770000 Nmm
k cr = = N = 1.558 × 10−6 mm−1
Ec II 30000 2 ×273129472.51 mm4
mm

16-Jan-25 20
Cont..
• Step 3: Compute the yielding moment and corresponding curvature. [𝑴𝒚 , 𝑲𝒚 ]

Assuming 0 < 𝜀𝑐𝑚 < 𝜀𝑐2 = 2‰ and from force equilibrium

𝐶𝐶 = 𝑇𝑆 <=> 𝛼𝐶 𝑓𝑐𝑑 𝑏𝑑 = 𝐴𝑠1 𝑓𝑦𝑑

𝐴𝑠1 𝑓𝑦𝑑 461.81 × 347.83

𝛼𝐶 = = = 0.197
𝑓𝑐𝑑 𝑏𝑑 11.33 × 200 × 360
𝜀 𝜀𝑐𝑚
From the strain profile: 𝑘𝑥 = 𝑐𝑚 =
𝜀𝑐𝑚 +𝜀𝑦 𝜀𝑐𝑚 +1.74
6−𝜀
From the simplified equations for 𝛼𝐶 : 𝛼𝐶 = 𝜀𝑐𝑚 ( 12𝑐𝑚)𝑘𝑥
Using two equations above: 𝜀𝑐𝑚 =1.208 which is 0 < 𝜀𝑐𝑚 = 1.208 < 2‰ ok!
1.208
16-Jan-25 𝑘𝑥 = 1.208+1.74 = 0.410 21
 Cont.. Assuming a compression failure 𝜀𝑐𝑚 = 3.5‰, 𝜀𝑦 <
𝑥 = 𝑑 × 𝑘𝑥 = 360 × 0.410 = 147.6𝑚𝑚 𝜀𝑠 < 25‰ and force equilibrium.
8 − 𝜀𝑐𝑚 𝐴𝑠1 𝑓𝑦𝑑 461.81 × 347.83
𝛽𝑐 = 𝑘𝑥 = 0.145 𝛼𝐶 = = = 0.197
4 6 − 𝜀𝑐𝑚 𝑓𝑐𝑑 𝑏𝑑 11.33 × 200 × 360
𝜀𝑐𝑚 3.5
𝑧 = 𝑑 1 − 𝛽𝑐 = 360 1 − 0.145 = 307.8mm From the strain profile: 𝑘𝑥 = 𝜀 = 3.5+𝜀
𝑐𝑚 +𝜀𝑦 𝑠
𝑀𝑦 = 𝐴𝑠1 𝑓𝑦𝑑 𝑧 = 49.442𝑘𝑁𝑚 From the simplified equations for 𝛼𝐶 :
𝜀𝑐𝑚
𝑘𝑦 = = 8.18 × 10−6 𝑚𝑚−1 3𝜀𝑐𝑚 − 2
𝑥 𝛼𝐶 = 𝑘𝑥 = 0.197
• Step 4: Compute the ultimate moment and 3𝜀𝑐𝑚
corresponding curvature. [𝑴𝒖 , 𝑲𝒖 ] Using two equations above: 𝜀𝑐𝑚 =10.88 which is 𝜀𝑦 < 𝜀𝑠 =
10.88 < 25‰ ok!
3.5
𝑘𝑥 = = 0.243
3.5+10.88
𝑥 = 𝑑 × 𝑘𝑥 = 360 × 0.243 = 87.48𝑚𝑚
𝜀𝑐𝑚 3𝜀𝑐𝑚 − 4 + 2
𝛽𝑐 = 𝑘𝑥 = 0.101
2𝜀𝑐𝑚 3𝜀𝑐𝑚 − 2
𝑧 = 𝑑 1 − 𝛽𝑐 = 360 1 − 0.101 = 323.64mm
𝑀𝑢 = 𝐴𝑠1 𝑓𝑦𝑑 𝑧 = 51.99𝑘𝑁𝑚
𝜀𝑐𝑚
𝑘𝑢 = = 40.01 × 10−6 𝑚𝑚−1
𝑥
16-Jan-25 22
Cont..
• Step 5: Plot the moment vs curvature diagram.

16-Jan-25
F.g. Moment Curvature Relationship for Example 1.1 (a) 23
Rotation Capacity
 Rotational Capacity: Introduction
• The designer adopting limit/plastic analysis in concrete must calculate the inelastic
rotation capacity it undergoes at plastic-hinge locations.
• This is critical in situation where moment redistribution is going to be implemented.
One way to calculate this rotation capacity is
making use of the moment-curvature
relationship established for a given section.
The total inelastic rotation 𝜃𝑝𝑙 can be found by
multiplying the average curvature by the hinging
length:
𝑀𝑢
𝜃𝑝𝑙,𝑠 = 𝑘𝑢 − 𝑘𝑦 𝑙𝑝
𝑀𝑦
Where: 𝑙𝑝 = 0.5𝑑 + 0.05𝑧, in which z is the
distance from the point of maximum moment to the
nearest point of zero moment
16-Jan-25 25
 Rotational Capacity: According ES EN1992:2014
• According to ES EN1992:2014, verification of the plastic rotation in the ultimate
limit state is considered to be fulfilled, if it is shown that under the relevant action
the calculated rotation, 𝜃𝑝𝑙,𝑠 , is less than or equal to the allowable plastic rotation,
𝜃𝑝𝑙,𝑑

16-Jan-25 26
Cont..
• In the simplified procedure, the allowable plastic rotation may be determined by
multiplying the basic value of allowable rotation by a correction factor kλ that
depends on the shear slenderness.
• The recommended basic value of allowable rotation, for steel Classes B and C and
concrete strength classes less than or equal to C50/60 and C90/105 are given
• In regions of yield hinges, xu/d shall not exceed the value 0,45 for concrete
strength classes less than or equal to C50/60, and 0,35 for concrete strength classes
greater than or equal to C55/67
• The values apply for a shear slenderness λ = 3,0. For different values of shear
slenderness 𝜃𝑝𝑙,𝑑 should be multiplied by kλ
𝑘λ = λ/3
λ is the ratio of the distance between point of zero and maximum moment after
redistribution and effective depth, d. As a simplification may be calculated for the
concordant design values
𝑀𝑠𝑑
λ=
𝑉𝑠𝑑 . 𝑑
16-Jan-25 27
Cont..
• Allowable plastic rotation, 𝜃𝑝𝑙,𝑑 , of reinforced concrete sections for Class B and C
reinforcement. The values apply for a shear slenderness λ = 3,0

16-Jan-25 28
 Analysis of Continuous
Beams and One Way Slabs
 Continuous Beams and One Way Slabs
Continuous beams and one-way slabs are indeterminate structures for which
variable/live load variation has to be considered. This is because permanent/dead
load is always there but variable might vary during the life time of these
structures.

 For building structures, design

concentrates mainly on the ULS, the
ultimate limit state of strength (STR),
and SLS, the serviceability limit state.
 However, it is essential that all limit
states are considered. The limit states
of equilibrium (EQU), strength at
ULS with geotechnical actions
(STR/GEO) and accidental situations
must be taken into account as
appropriate.
16-Jan-25 30
Load Arrangement of Actions: In relation to Influence Lines
The largest moment in continuous beams or one-way slabs or frames occur when
some spans are loaded and the others are not. Influence lines are used to determine
which spans should be loaded and which spans should not be to find the maximum
load effect.
 The figure (a) shows influence line for
moment at B. The loading pattern that will
give the largest positive moment consists of
load on all spans having positive influence
ordinates. Such loading is shown in figure (b)
and is called alternate span loading or
checkerboard loading.
 The maximum negative moment at C results
from loading all spans having negative
influence ordinate as shown in figure (d) and
is referred as an adjacent span loading.
16-Jan-25 31
Cont..

• Similarly, loading for maximum shear

may be obtained by loading spans with
positive shear influence ordinate as
shown.

16-Jan-25 32
Load Arrangement of Actions: According Eurocode
• In building structures, any of the following sets of simplified load arrangements may be
used at ULS and SLS.
• The more critical of:
a. Alternative spans carrying 𝛾𝐺 𝐺𝑘 + 𝛾𝑄 𝑄𝑘 with other spans loaded with 𝛾𝐺 𝐺𝑘 and
b. All spans carrying 𝛾𝐺 𝐺𝑘 + 𝛾𝑄 𝑄𝑘
• Or the more critical of:
a. Alternative spans carrying 𝛾𝐺 𝐺𝑘 + 𝛾𝑄 𝑄𝑘 with other spans loaded with 𝛾𝐺 𝐺𝑘 and
b. Any two adjacent spans carrying 𝛾𝐺 𝐺𝑘 + 𝛾𝑄 𝑄𝑘

16-Jan-25 33
Example 1.2
Problem: A continuous beam with b/h 250/450 is to be constructed out of C20/25 concrete
and reinforced with S400 reinforcement bar. The beam supports a factored permanent load
of 14.5 KN/m including its own self-weight and a factored variable load of 29 KN/m. Take
cover to stirrup to be 25 mm.
Design the beam
a) Without moment redistribution
b) With 20% moment redistribution
USE φ8 and φ20 bars as web and longitudinal reinforcement
• N.B:
 The design of continuous beam sections is very simple. It is carried out in the
same procedure as discussed in reinforced concrete structures I course.
 For cases with moment redistribution, the procedures will be presented and
illustrated in the subsequent sections.
In this example we only identify the cases for maximum action effect on and
determine the value for (span and support moments).
16-Jan-25 34
Cont..
• Step 1: Identify the cases for maximum action effect on
(span and support moments)
• Case 1: when the whole section is loaded

16-Jan-25 35
Cont..
• Case 2: alternate span loading (max. span moment at AB and CD)

16-Jan-25 36
Cont..
• Case 3: alternate span loading (max. span moment at BC)

16-Jan-25 37
Cont..
• Case 4: two adjacent spans loading (max. support moment at B or C)

16-Jan-25 38
Cont..
• Moment envelop: (superimposing the above four cases for the
respective maximum moment)

16-Jan-25 39
Cont..
• Design Moments
• Support B and C
𝑀𝑠𝑑 = 172.99 𝑘𝑁𝑚 −𝑣𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡
• Span AB and/or CD
𝑀𝑠𝑑 = 146.28 𝑘𝑁𝑚 +𝑣𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡
• Span BC (both negative and positive moments considered in design)
 Case 1
𝑀𝑠𝑑 = 91.66 𝑘𝑁𝑚 +𝑣𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡
 Case 2
𝑀𝑠𝑑 = 38.84 𝑘𝑁𝑚 −𝑣𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡

16-Jan-25 40
Plastic Hinges and Collapse
Mechanisms
Plastic Hinges and Collapse Mechanisms
Statically Determinate Beam Statically Indeterminate Beam
• Will fail if ONE plastic hinge • Will require at least TWO plastic hinges to develop.
develop.
e.g. The simply supported beam e.g. The fixed-end
shown below will fail , if P is beam shown below
increased until a plastic hinge is can’t fail unless the
developed at the point of maximum three hinges in the
moment (just underneath P),. figure develop.

e.g. The propped cantilever

beam below is an example
of a structure that will fail
after two plastic hinges
develop.
16-Jan-25 42
Cont..
• If the structure is statically indeterminate, it is still stable after the formation of a
plastic hinge, and for further loading, it behaves as a modified structure with a
hinge at the plastic hinge location (and one less degree of indeterminacy).
• It can continue to carry additional loading (with formation of additional plastic
hinges) until the limit state of collapse is reached on account of one of the
following reasons:
1. formation of sufficient number of plastic hinges, to convert the structure (or a part of it) into
a ‘mechanism’.
2. limitation in ductile behavior (i.e., curvature ϕ reaching the ultimate value ϕmax, or, in other
words a plastic hinge reaching its ultimate rotation capacity) at any one plastic hinge
location, resulting in local crushing of concrete at that section.

16-Jan-25 43
 Illustration example for Plastic Analysis of Structure
• For illustration of plastic analysis of
structure, consider a fixed-beam, which
is statically indeterminate, subjected to
increasing uniform load shown below.
• Let the beam subjected to the load Wp that cause the plastic hinges at the ends when the
maximum moment at supports equal to the ultimate resistance of beam section. But, with the
formation of plastic hinges, the beam is still able to support additional load without complete
collapse. After formation of plastic hinges at supports, the beam behaves as if simply supported.

  . f yd 
M u =  . f yd . b . d 2 .  1  
 2 . f cd 

16-Jan-25 44
Cont..
 On further loading, the moment at center of span increases proportionally with the
change of loading. Additional load Δw is slowly applied until it causes the beam to
transform into a collapse mechanism with the formation of one or more hinges at the
middle.

16-Jan-25 45
Cont..
 At collapse, mid-span moment equal to the ultimate resistance of beam section,
𝑤𝑝 . 𝑙 2 ∆𝑤. 𝑙 2 𝑤𝑝 . 𝑙 2
𝑀𝑢 = 𝑀𝑝 = + =
24 8 12
Equating negative and positive collapse moment, additional load that causes collapse
mechanism in terms of load ‘𝑤𝑝 ’ that causes plastic hinges at the ends is:
𝑤𝑝
∆𝑤 = and the collapse load interms of‘wp ’
3
𝑤𝑝 4
𝑤𝑢 = 𝑤𝑝 + ∆𝑤 = 𝑤𝑝 + = 𝑤𝑝
3 3
These shows that the beam may carry a load of 4/3𝑤𝑝 with redistribution. The ultimate
moment in terms of the ultimate load is:
3
𝑤𝑝 .𝑙 2 3 ( 𝑤𝑢 ).𝑙 2 𝑤𝑢 .𝑙 2
4
𝑀𝑢 = 𝑠𝑢𝑏𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑡𝑢𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑤𝑝 = 𝑤 , therefore 𝑀𝑢 = =
12 4 𝑢 12 16
If elastic analysis is made using the ultimate load ‘𝑤𝑢 ’ the maximum moment at support
𝑤𝑢 .𝑙2 𝑤𝑢 .𝑙2
𝑤𝑢 .𝑙2 − 16
12
is
12
. The percentage reduction in bending is: 𝑤𝑢 .𝑙2
× 100 = 25%
16-Jan-25 12 46
Example 1.3
Problem: Compute the theoretical ultimate load the beam below can support interms
of the plastic moment capacity of the beam section. Assume the conditions in the
illustrative example above are also applicable here (symmetric reinforcement across
the span of the beam)
Given beam with loading
and support condition

• Step 1: Identify the location and magnitude of maximum moment in the elastic
range (indicates the location of the first plastic hinges)

Although the plastic moment has been reached at the

ends and plastic hinges are formed, the beams will
not fail because it has , in effect, become a simple
end supported beam for further load increment.
16-Jan-25 47
Cont..
• Step 2: Compute the theoretical ultimate load interims od the plastic moment capacity.
• The load can now be increased on this “Simple” beam, and the moments at the ends
will remain constant; however, the moment out in the span will increase at it would in
a uniformly loaded simple beam as shown.

• In order to come up with the ultimate load one could adopt a number methods, here
under two of which are presented.
16-Jan-25 48
 Cont..
Using the concept of section equilibrium Using the concept of super positioning

෍ 𝑀𝑂 = 0
At l/2 bending moment has to reach 𝑀𝑃 inorder to
𝑙 𝑙 𝑤𝑢 𝑙 𝑙 form a plastic hinge.
𝑀𝑃 + 𝑀𝑃 + 𝑤𝑢 =
2 4 2 4 𝑤𝑢 𝑙 2
Hence, 2𝑀𝑝 =
16𝑀𝑃 8
𝑤𝑢 = 16𝑀𝑃
𝑙2 𝑤𝑢 =
𝑙2
Loading Capacity was increased by a 33.33%
16-Jan-25 49
Moment Redistribution
 Concept of Moment Redistribution
Introduction
• Moment redistribution must not be confused with moment distribution, as
the two terms are distinctly dissimilar in meaning. Moment distribution is an
approximate method of elastic analysis while moment redistribution refers to
behaviour indeterminate concrete structures that are not purely elastic.
Principles
• In the design of concrete structures, we use some elastic method of elastic
analysis to obtain the forces, despite the fact that reinforced concrete doesn’t
behave like an elastic material near its ultimate load. The assumption of
elastic behaviour is valid at low-stress levels but as a section approaches its
ultimate moment of resistance, plastic deformation will occur. We can further
visualize this by considering an indeterminate beam operating at the ultimate
limit state.

16-Jan-25 51
Cont..
• When the beam is loaded, it moment capacity increases until it forms a sufficient
number of plastic hinges to make it determinate.
• If we further increase the load on the beam, the moment at the locations of the
plastic hinge do not increase. Instead, the increased load increases the moment in
the less stressed portion of the beam. This concept of shifting the point of
application of moment in a beam is termed Moment Redistribution.
• Reinforced concrete members with bending are designed to have a certain ductility
which ensures that the member is capable of undergoing a certain amount of
rotation after yielding of the tension steel reinforcement and before crushing of the
concrete in compression.
• In moment redistribution usually it is the maximum support moments which are
(adjusted) reduced so that economizing in reinforcing steel and also reducing
congestion of bars at the columns.

16-Jan-25 52
 Application
• In the design of reinforced concrete beams, it’s common to have larger moments at
the support region of the beam. Thus, the support region will be congested with
reinforcement bars if designed for such high moments. This could, in turn, lead to
problems of internal cracks and problems during pouring and compaction of the
concrete.
• So, in order to solve this problem of congested reinforcement. We redistribute a
proportion of the moment at the support, to location where the moment is
reasonably low.

16-Jan-25 53
 Rules for Redistributing Moments
• The Eurocode allows the use of moment redistribution up to a maximum of 30%.
There are some specific rules, to be followed in-order to carry out moment
redistribution properly. These are:
The resulting distribution must remain in equilibrium with the applied loads
The redistributed moment at any section must not be less than 70% of the elastic
moment at any section
There will be limitations on the depth of the neutral axis.
Do not redistribute the column moments.
When considering alternate spans loaded, do not move the unloaded span
moment diagram. Only move the fully loaded diagram up or down. This is
illustrated in figure 1.

16-Jan-25 54
Cont..

16-Jan-25 55
 Requirements for applying moment – redistribution are:-

• Equilibrium between internal and external forces must be maintained, hence it is

necessary to recalculate the span moments.
• Maximum redistribution is 30%... (𝛿min= 0.70)
𝑅𝑒𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑏𝑢𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡
• Where, 𝛿 =
𝑀𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑏𝑢𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
According to Eurocode 2 part1-1 Design of concrete structure 5.5(4)
• In continuous beams or slabs which:
a) are predominantly subject to flexure and
b) have the ratio of the lengths of adjacent spans in the range of 0.5 to 2,
Redistribution of bending moments may be carried out without explicit check on the
rotation capacity, provided that:

16-Jan-25 56
 Cont..
δ ≥ k1 + k2 xu/d for fck ≤ 50 Mpa 5.10a
δ ≥ k3 + k4 xu/d for fck > 50 Mpa 5.10b
≥ k5 where Class B and Class C reinforcement is used
≥ k6 where Class A reinforcement is used.
Recommendation
In these expressions for the redistribution of bending moments, the recommended value
for k1 is 0.44,
for k2 is 1.25(0.6 + 0.0014/εcu2),
for k3 is 0.54,
for k4 is 1.25(0.6 + 0.0014/εcu2),
for k5 is 0.7 and k6 is 0.8. Where εcu2 is the ultimate strain
From the recommendation value we have:
δ ≥ 0.44 + 1.25 xu/d for fck ≤ 50 Mpa
δ ≥ 0.54 + 1.25 xu/d for fck > 50 Mpa
≥ k5 where Class B and Class C reinforcement is used
≥ k6 where Class A reinforcement is used
taking εcu2 = 0.0035
By16-Jan-25 57
Example 1.4

Problem: Draw the design moment diagram the beam shown in figure below
subjected to characteristic live load of28.5KN/m. The cross section of the beam is
250x600mm. allow 20% redistribution of moment .

Solution .calculate design load

LL=28.5kN/m
DL= 25*0.25*0.6= 3.75kN/m
Design load (Wmax) =1.3DL+1.5LL
Wmax =1.3x3.75+1.5x28.5
=47.63kN/m

16-Jan-25 58
Cont..

16-Jan-25 59
Cont..

16-Jan-25 60
Cont..

16-Jan-25 61
Cont..

16-Jan-25 62
Cont..

16-Jan-25 63
Example 1.5

Problem: Draw envelope of design moments of continuous beam ABC shown in

the figure below. the beam subjected to a live load of 26.33 kN/m and dead load of
10kN. allow 15% moment redistribution of moments

Solution .calculate design load

LL=26.5kN/m
DL= 10 kN/m
Design load (Wmax) =1.3DL+1.5LL
Wmax =1.3x10+1.5x26.33 = 52.5kN/m
Wmin = 10kN
Combination of Load
Case I :- Maximum –Ve moment at B
Case IIa:- Maximum +Ve Moment at Span AB
16-Jan-25
Case IIb:- Maximum +Ve Moment at Span BC 64
Cont..

16-Jan-25 65
Cont..
• Use MDM to determine the elastic design moment

16-Jan-25 66
Cont..
• Now, we shall take each case of combination of loads individually.

16-Jan-25 67
Cont..

16-Jan-25 68
Cont..

16-Jan-25 69
Cont..

16-Jan-25 70
Cont..

16-Jan-25 71
Cont..

16-Jan-25 72
Example 1.6
Problem: Determine the internal moments @each support of the beam shown in the
figure. EI is constant

16-Jan-25 73
Cont..

16-Jan-25 74
Cont..

16-Jan-25 75
Cont..
Calculate the span moment
Span B-C
• We need to calculate first the shear at supports and then the span moments due to the
moment at point C. From equilibrium of section BC in figure below, we have :
𝑤𝑙 𝑀𝐵−𝑀𝐶 20∗12 124.95−281.5
𝑉𝐵𝐶 = +; 𝑉𝐵𝐶 = + =106.95 kN
2 𝑙 2 12
𝑉𝐶𝐵 = 𝑤𝑙 − 𝑉𝐵𝐶 = 133.05 𝑘𝑁

16-Jan-25 76
Cont..

To determine the Moment in the span, we need to find out, at what point is it maximum
𝑑𝑀
𝑀𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝑜𝑐𝑐𝑢𝑟𝑠 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 =0
2
𝑑𝑥
𝑤𝑥
𝑀 = 𝑉𝐵𝐶𝑥 − − 𝑀𝐵
2
𝑑𝑀
= 𝑉𝐵𝐶 − 𝑤𝑥 = 0
𝑑𝑥
𝑉𝐵𝐶 106.95
𝑥= = = 5.35𝑚
𝑤 20
20 ∗ 5.352
𝑀𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 106.95 ∗ 5.35 − − 124.95 = 161 𝑘𝑁𝑚
2

16-Jan-25 77
Cont..

Span C-D
• We need to calculate first the shear at supports and then the span moments due to the
moment at point C. From equilibrium of section CD in figure above,
• We follow the same procedure as with span B-C
𝑃 𝑀𝐶 − 𝑀𝐷 250 281.5 − 235.15
𝑉𝐶𝐷 = + = + = 130.79 𝑘𝑁
2 𝑙 2 8
𝑉𝐷𝐶 = 𝑃 − 𝑉𝐶𝐷 = 250 − 130.79 = 119.21 𝑘𝑁
For span C-D, the maximum moment will occur under the point load, therefore x=4m
Mmax​=VCDx−MCD​=(130.79×4)−281.5=241.66 kNm

16-Jan-25 78
16-Jan-25 79
Redistribution
• The process of redistributing moment is very simple. The first thing to do is to
reduce the moment at the section by the percentage of redistribution.
• Secondly, we recalculate the corresponding moment at the other sections to that
effect using simple rules of statics.

16-Jan-25 80
Cont..

• Figure above Shows the sections of the beam that will be affected by a reduction
in the moment at point C. We analyze the sections of the beam discretely for the
redistributed moment and shears. Span AB is not affected by this redistribution.
• Redistributed Moments
• Reduced Moment at point C is obtained as
• Mc​=(1−0.20)×281.5=225.2kN.m

16-Jan-25 81
 Span B-C
• We need to recalculate first the shear at supports and then the new span moments due to
the moment reduction at point C. From equilibrium of section BC in figure above, we
have :
𝑤𝑙 𝑀𝐵−𝑀𝐶 20∗12 124.95−225.2
• 𝑉𝐵𝐶 = + ; 𝑉𝐵𝐶 = + =111.64 kN
2 𝑙 2 12
• 𝑉𝐶𝐵 = 𝑤𝑙 − 𝑉𝐵𝐶 = 128.36 𝑘𝑁
• To determine the Moment in the span, we need to find out, at what point is it maximum
𝑑𝑀
• 𝑀𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝑜𝑐𝑐𝑢𝑟𝑠 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 =0
𝑑𝑥
𝑤𝑥 2
• 𝑀 = 𝑉𝐵𝐶𝑥 − − 𝑀𝐵
2
𝑑𝑀
• = 𝑉𝐵𝐶 − 𝑤𝑥 = 0
𝑑𝑥
𝑉𝐵𝐶 111.64
• 𝑥= = = 5.58𝑚
𝑤 20
20∗5.582
• 𝑀𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 111.64 ∗ 5.58 − − 124.95 = 186.64 𝑘𝑁𝑚
2
16-Jan-25 82
 Span C-D
• We follow the same procedure as with span B-C
𝑃 𝑀𝐶 −𝑀𝐷 250 225.2−235.15
• 𝑉𝐶𝐷 = + = + = 123.76 𝑘𝑁
2 𝑙 2 8
• 𝑉𝐷𝐶 = 𝑃 − 𝑉𝐶𝐷 = 250 − 123.76 = 126.24 𝑘𝑁
• For span C-D, the maximum moment will occur under the point load, therefore
x=4m
• Mmax​=VCDx−MCD​=(123.76×4)−225.2=269.84 kNm

16-Jan-25 83
 225.2
235.15

124.95
62.5

186.64
269.84
123.76
111.64

5.204

126.24
128.36
16-Jan-25 84
Redistribution

• If we take a look at the bending moment diagram obtained from moment

distribution analysis, we could see that the moment at support C is very high.
• If we attempt to design the beam using this moment diagram, there could be
congested reinforcement at this support.
• For us to reduce this moment we are going to redistribute 20% of the moments
from the support into the spans.
• If we compare the redistributed bending moment and shear diagrams with that
obtained directly from moment distribution analysis.
• We will see that the redistributed diagrams would be easier to use for design as the
moment at every section is not considerably high compared to others.

16-Jan-25 85
 Thank You For Your
Attention!

16-Jan-25 86