JULY 2003

eurocodesnews
ISSUE 1

Newsletter of Eurocodes Expert, the construction industry’s forum for users of the new structural Eurocodes

Safety factors for the London Eye were

calculated using EN1990, the first
Eurocode to be published (see page 4)

Eurocodes Expert gets

UK government backing
by Simon Fullalove,Editor
The Eurocodes Expert campaign launched in April 2003 representatives of small and large engineering
to develop greater awareness and understanding of consultancies, contractors, product manufacturers and
the 10 new European structural design codes has won building control officers.
the full support of the British Government’s Office of the Institutional members include representatives of

in this issue:
Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM). British Standards Institution, the Institution of
The codes – which are being published from 2002 to Structural Engineers Codes Advisory Committee, the
2005 and will begin replacing most European national Institution of Civil Engineers Structures Board, the UK
codes from 2007 – will be mandatory for European Standing Committee on Structural Safety and a number
public works and are set to become the de-facto of construction trade associations.
standard for the private sector, both in Europe and
world-wide. They will also be the basis for obtaining New website and users’ group Eurocodes – the new design environment 2
CE-marks for structural components and kits. The Eurocodes Expert campaign includes a new From drafts to reality 3
Representatives from the ODPM attended the website at www.eurocodes.co.uk, which includes
launch of the campaign at the Institution of Civil details of all codes and their progress together with National variations 3
Engineers in London and a senior representative of the listings of all recent Eurocode-related publications and EN1990: The London Eye – safety factors 4
Building Regulations Division is now a permanent, ex- forthcoming institutional events. There will also be an EN1992: Eurocode 2 and BS8110 compared 4
officio member of the pan-industry focus group on-line users’ forum, an email updating service,
established by Haig Gulvanessian of the BRE to advise regular networking events and a periodic newsletter EN1993: First five parts of Eurocode 3 imminent 5
the campaign. Eurocode News. EN1993/4: Learning programmes for steel codes 5
Commenting at the launch of the campaign, ICE EN1996: Eurocode 6 conference report 6
Focus group includes practitioners director general Tom Foulkes said: ‘‘The Eurocodes
Professor Gulvanessian is construction division will require engineering designers throughout the UK Highways Agency appoints Eurocode consultants 6
director of BRE (the government’s principal Eurocodes and Europe to think in a different way and to use Eurocodes in France 6
consultant), visiting professor at Imperial College and more supporting guidance and software than they do Frequently asked questions 7
chairman of the drafting committees for EN1990 at present. Eurocodes Expert aims to be the primary
Eurocode: Basis of Structural Design and EN1991 reference for all users, advising them on the latest Events and conferences 8
Eurocode 1: Actions on structures. developments, training events and support Eurocode publications 8
Practitioners on the advisory group include resources.’

www.eurocodes.co.uk JULY 2003 ISSUE 1 eurocodesnews 1

 eurocodesnews: Introduction

Editorial: Eurocodes – the new

“For the Eurocodes to achieve their
design environment
objectives and for the construction
After 25 years in the making, the suite of 10 European ‘The Eurocodes to establish a set of common technical
industry to derive maximum benefit, it is structural design standards – generally known as the rules for the design of buildings and civil engineering
now vital for construction professionals Eurocodes – is at last becoming a reality. works which will ultimately replace the differing rules in
to start being trained in their use and for A total of 58 individual parts have been circulating in the various member states.’
universities to start basing their courses working draft form for several years and four have finally
been converted to full EN (EuroNorm) status at the present In 1989, an agreement between member states and the
on the new methodology.” time. All other parts should be converted in a series of Commission specified that the Eurocodes were intended
packages by 2005 and, following a few years of co- to serve as reference documents to be recognised by
Horst Bossemayer, president of the existence, will replace all existing structural design authorities of the member states for the following
Deutches Institut für Bautechnik and standards in every EC member state by the end of the purposes.
decade.
chairman of CEN/TC250 - the European
• As a means for enabling building and civil
Commission drafting committee for the What are the structural Eurocodes ? engineering works comply with the ‘essential
structural Eurocodes The structural Eurocodes are an unrivalled set of requirements’ of the construction products directive
unified international codes of practice for designing (89/106/EEC), particularly the first two – mechanical
buildings and civil engineering structures. They embody resistance and stability, and safety in case of fire.
By Haig Gulvanessian the vast experience and research output of 19 member Use of Eurocodes in product technical
states of the Comité Européen de Normalisation (CEN) specifications is described in the Commission’s
and, as such, represent a truly world-class standard for guidance document Application and use of
Welcome to this first issue of Eurocodes News. It
structural design. Eurocodes.
is an integral part of the recently launched
Eurocodes Expert initiative, which has been The ten Eurocodes are as follows.
• As a basis for specifying public construction and
pioneered by the Institution of Civil Engineers EuroNorm related engineering-service contracts. This relates
through its subsidiary Thomas Telford and now reference Structural Eurocode
has the full support of the government and key UK to the works directive (93/37/EEC), which covers
construction industry bodies (see page 1). EN 1990 Eurocode: Basis of structural design procurement by public authorities of civil
The newsletter aims to provide you with a
EN 1991 Eurocode 1: Actions on structures engineering and building works with a current
EN 1992 Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures
periodic update on the progress of the new EN 1993 Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures threshold of about e5 million; and the services
structural Eurocodes in the UK and elsewhere, EN 1994
EN 1995
Eurocode 4: Design of composite steel and concrete structures
Eurocode 5: Design of timber structures
directive (92/50/EEC), which covers public
but primarily to alert you to the ever-growing EN 1996 Eurocode 6: Design of masonry structures procurement of services, with current thresholds for
amount of information on the Eurocodes Expert EN 1997
EN 1998
Eurocode 7: Geotechnical design
Eurocode 8: Design of structures for earthquake resistance
government departments of e130,000 and e200,000
website at www.eurocodes.co.uk. EN 1999 Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures for others, including local authorities.
On these two pages I have also provided some
of the background to the Eurocodes and why they • As a framework for drawing up harmonised
EN 1990 establishes for all the structural Eurocodes the
are important to all of us in the construction technical specifications for construction products.
principles and requirements for safety and serviceability.
industry. On the following pages we have articles It also provides the basis and general principles for the
from senior figures on the latest developments In addition, the Eurocodes are expected to improve the
structural design and verification of buildings and civil
with some the individual Eurocodes. engineering works (including geotechnical aspects) and functioning of the single European market for products
The back page provides details of over 40 and engineering services by removing obstacles arising
Eurocode-related publications we have identified gives guidelines for related aspects of reliability and
durability. from different nationally codified practices for assessing
together with details of forthcoming events. structural reliability. They are also intended to improve
The Eurocodes Expert website also includes a EN1990 is based on the limit-state concept used in
conjunction with the partial safety factor method. It is to be competitiveness of the European construction industry –
free Eurocodes Users’ Group to provide support including the professionals and industries connected to it
and aid on the use, interpretation and used together with EN1991 Eurocode 1: Actions on
structures and the design Eurocodes (EN1992 – EN1999). – in countries outside the European Union.
implementation of the new codes. Joining the
Users’ Group will help you and your organisation EN 1990, alone within the Eurocode suite, gives all the
to understand Eurocode developments as well as operative material independent rules (e.g. partial factors Potential benefits of using Eurocodes
feed back your views and needs to Eurocodes for actions, load combination expressions for ultimate and The intended benefits of the Eurocodes are to
Expert. serviceability limit states) and therefore EN 1992 to EN
Users’ Group membership benefits include 1999, which do not provide material independent • provide a common understanding of structural design
guidance, cannot be used without EN 1990. between owners, operators and users, designers,
• free copy of Eurocodes News newsletter The structure and links of the Eurocodes are as follows. contractors and manufacturers of construction
• email help for basic queries on the products
Eurocodes programme, implementation and • provide common design criteria and methods to fulfil
available support specified requirements for mechanical resistance,
• low-cost presentations to organisations on stability and resistance to fire, including aspects of
the conversion and implementation durability and economy
• regular email updates on the Eurocode • facilitate marketing and use of structural components
programme and kits in all member states
• 20% discount on selected Eurocode
• facilitate marketing and use of materials and
publications.
constituent products, the properties of which enter
I hope you find both the newsletter and the into design calculations, in all member states
website useful. We nevertheless rely very much • be a common basis for research and development
on being provided with information by industry so • allow the preparation of common design aids and
if you are aware of any issues, products or software
services we have not covered, please let us know Aims and objectives of the Eurocodes and • benefit European civil engineering firms, contractors,
on 020 7665 2303, email their status designers and product manufacturers in their world-
[email protected]. wide activities, increasing their competitiveness.
In 1975, the Commission of the European Communities
embarked on an action programme based on article 95 of In conclusion, Eurocodes offer the opportunity of
Professor Gulvanessian is construction division the Treaty of Rome to eliminate technical obstacles to harmonised design standards for the European
director of BRE, visiting professor at Imperial trade and to harmonise technical specifications. This construction market and the rest of the world. It is
College and chairman of the EN1990 and EN991 therefore important for the UK construction industry to
included establishing a set of harmonised technical rules
drafting committees. He is also chairman of the
for the structural design of construction works, with the become acquainted with the Eurocodes so that advantage
Eurocodes Expert advisory group.
following stated objective. can be taken of the opportunities on implementation.

2 eurocodesnews JULY 2003 ISSUE 1 www.eurocodes.co.uk

 eurocodesnews: Introduction

From drafts to reality

The complete suite of the CEN structural Eurocodes, which • Examination period – for sub-committees and relate to different types of structure. As soon as all parts in
presently exist in ENV (draft EuroNorm) form, will be national delegations to approve the Eurocode part, a package are available in EN form, withdrawal of
converted to full EN status by 2005. The first package of which should be available in English, French and conflicting national standards and/or conflicting national
Eurocodes relating to the design of common buildings will be German, for formal vote (six months). provisions can take place at the end of the agreed co-
converted earlier, possibly by 2003, and the package relating • CEN process period – for CEN to arrange for a existence period. The coexistence period of a package
to the design of bridges should be converted by 2004. formal vote and ratification before making the can only begin when all parts of the package are available.
Following a period of co-existence between the Eurocode part available at the ‘date of availability’ When a national standard or provision has wider
Eurocodes and the present national codes, the national (eight months). scope than the conflicting Eurocode package,
codes will cease to be maintained. This period is yet to • Translation period – for translation of the available withdrawal concerns only the part of the scope covered
be negotiated but is expected to be about five years. Eurocode part into national languages other than by the package. No parts of EN1990, EN1991, EN1997 or
English, French and German (maximum one year). EN1998 form a package in themselves but are placed in
Steps to adoption • National calibration period – for establishment of each of the other packages as independent material.
Each of the Eurocodes is produced by separate sub- nationally determined parameters and national Before any part of any Eurocode package can be
committees under the guidance and co-ordination of the annexes for the Eurocode part (maximum two years). adopted by a member state, the following requirements
responsible technical committee CEN/TC250. • Coexistence period – during which the Eurocode must be complied with
Drafts for the Eurocodes and their parts are part coexists with national codes, standards or
elaborated by project teams that are selected by the provisions. At the end of this period, all conflicting • the Eurocode part is fit for implementation
appropriate sub-committee to CEN/TC250. A project national standards shall be withdrawn and all • calculations, executed on the basis of the Eruocode
team consists of about six experts who represent their national provisions conflicting with the scope of the part together with nationally determined parameters,
sub-committee. Delegates of the 19 CEN members are Eurocode shall be adapted. However, withdrawal of provide an acceptable level of safety
represented in CEN/TC250 and its sub-committees, who the relevant national code will only occur when the • use of the Eurocode part with nationally determined
comment and discuss the development. Voting is in last Eurocode part of a package ends its parameters does not lead to structures that cost
accordance with the rules of the CEN. coexistence period. Nevertheless, contradicting significantly more, over their design life, than those
regulations will be changed to allow legitimate use designed to national standards or provisions, unless
Five periods of transition of earlier parts. changes in safety have been made and agreed.
As soon as a CEN project team produces a final draft
of each EN Eurocode part, the ‘transitional Progressed as structural packages Under CEN rules, all Eurocodes will have a five-year
arrangements’ period for that part begins. This has five To facilitate the adoption of Eurocodes, their various review in addition to urgent health and safety and
sub-periods. parts have been grouped into packages which generally correcting error amendments.

National variations preserved

It is the responsibility of each national standards body has safeguarded their right to determine values related A national annex is not required if the EN Eurocode
(e.g. British Standards Institute (BSI) in the UK) to to safety matters at national level through a national part is not relevant for the member state (e.g. seismic
implement Eurocodes as national standards. annex. design for some countries).
The national standard implementing EN1990 – and the The annex may also contain
national standards implementing each Eurocode part – Nationally determined parameters
will comprise, without any alterations, the full text of the Possible differences in geographical or climatic • decisions on the application of informative annexes
Eurocode and its annexes as published by the CEN. This conditions (e.g. wind or snow maps) or in ways of life, as
may be preceded by a national title page and national • references to non-contradictory complementary
well as different levels of protection that may prevail at
foreword, and may be followed by a national annex (see information to assist the user in applying the
national, regional or local level, can be taken into
diagram). Eurocode.
account by choices left open about values, classes or
alternative methods that are identified in the EN
A national annex cannot change or modify the content
Eurocodes to be determined nationally.
of the EN Eurocode text in any way other than where it
The values, classes or methods to be chosen or
indicates that national choices may be made by means of
determined at national level, called ‘nationally nationally determined parameters.
determined parameters’, will allow the EU member states As an example, in EN1990, all safety factors are given
to choose the level of safety, including aspects of as symbols, with recommended values for the symbols
durability and economy applicable to works in their given in notes. The national annex may either adopt the
territory. They include recommended values or give alternative values.
• values and/or classes where alternatives are given
in the Eurocode Annexes not transferable
Each EU member state will have a different national
• values to be used where only a symbol is given in
annex – the annex used must be the one applicable to
the Eurocode
where the building or civil engineering work is being
• country-specific data (geographical, climatic, etc.) constructed.
e.g. snow maps For example, a UK designer will have to use the
appropriate Eurocode with the UK national annex when
• procedures to be used where alternative designing a building in the UK. The same designer,
procedures are given in the Eurocode. designing a building in Italy, will have to use the
EN1990 recognises the responsibility of regulatory
Eurocode with the Italian national annex.
authorities (e.g. the Building Regulations Division of the National annexes It is probable that national annexes will be sold
Office of the Deputy Prime Minister in the UK) or national The national standards bodies should publish the separately to the Eurocodes, so that a UK engineer
competent authorities (e.g. the Highways Agency or parameters in a national annex on behalf of and with the designing a structure in France need only purchase the
Railway Safety in the UK) in each EU member state. It agreement of the national competent authorities. French national annex.

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 eurocodesnews: Code Updates

Eurocode 2 and a separate ‘execution standard’ has

been prepared. This is currently in ENV (draft) form and a
national document based on the existing National
Structural Concrete Specification is expected to be
available towards the end of this year. Also, with regard
to durability, simplified guidance to enable engineers to
specify appropriate grades of concrete for particular
exposure conditions, and with appropriate covers, is in
being prepared and will be included within the national
annex to the code.

Little difference in design for bending

The design of flexural elements to Eurocode 2 is in
practice very similar to that of BS8110. Where Eurocode
2 differs is that it does not generally give element specific
design guidance, but more the general principles to be
applied.
The following diagram shows how the rectangular
stress block which may be used in Eurocode 2 compares

The 200 t London Eye spindle under

construction – E1990 enabled the
designers to balance safety factors
for strength and brittle fracture

How rectangular stress block for Eurocode 2 (top)

compares with BS8110 – in practice this means little
difference in bending design for beams and slabs.

EN1990 of the partial safety factors to be determined from a

knowledge of the structure from the potential variation in with that in BS8110.
The London Eye: selection the applied loading and from the potential scatter in Parametric studies have been carried out looking at
the impact of the different stress block on the design of
material test results.
of safety factors Use was made of the methods set out in annex A of rectangular beams. The conclusion from this study was
the draft Eurocode. In the code, the average (redundant) that there was very little practical difference between
By John Mills, Babtie type of structural element is calibrated to a reliability Eurocode 2 and BS 8110. This conclusion can also be
reasonably extended to solid slabs.
index of β = 3.8. But for the non-redundant spindle this
The London Eye on the south bank of the river Thames in was increased to β = 5.0. The direct consequence of this
Span / depth ratios and shear
London is the world’s largest observation wheel at 135 m was an increase in the material factor required by about In both BS8110 and Eurocode 2 the allowable
high. It is also one of the first projects to use EN1990 30% above that normally required. This had implications span/depth ratio depends on concrete strength and
Eurocode – Basis of structural design, the first of the for the quality control and testing of the castings; the tension and compression reinforcement ratios.
Eurocodes to be published. factor is linked to test result scatter. A detailed parametric study on span/depth ratios has
The structural arrangements mean that the whole rim Values of the coefficients of variation used were in been carried out comparing the provisions of the two
and passenger bearing capsules are supported off a accordance with the Eurocode and may be regarded as codes in relation to rectangular beams. The study
single cantilever known as the spindle. This is 25 m long conservative for the dead load since this is known with showed that Eurocode 2 tended to be more conservative
overall with the cantilever portion projecting 10 m. The great accuracy as all the parts have been weighed. Final at low concrete strengths. However Eurocode 2 permits
proof of spindle adequacy was demonstrated by proof much higher span/depth ratios for cantilevers where a
spindle is a steel tube 2.1 m in diameter with wall
low reinforcement percentage is used.
thicknesses variable up to 300 mm. It was fabricated testing.
When checking normal shear, Eurocode 2 is the same
from cast steel in seven sections and then these were as BS8110 in that there is a shear stress below which
joined together by welding. only minimum shear reinforcement need be provided. In
Eurocode 2 as in BS8110 this shear stress depends on
Conflicting failure modes EN1992 concrete strength, effective depth and tension steel ratio.
Noting the importance of this single, non-redundant
member and the novelty of the fabrication process, much
Eurocode 2 and BS8110 Eurocode 2 differs from BS8110 in that above the limit
at which the concrete alone has sufficient capacity, the
thought was given to the selection of an appropriate compared designed shear steel to be provided is determined
ignoring the contribution from the concrete. The design
safety factor. With 800 passengers on the spindle, the
by Richard Moss,BRE method used is known as the variable strut inclination
intuitive feeling was to have a factor greater than normal.
method and is based on a truss model. The two codes
Questions then arise as to the value. Although provision
EN1992 Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures will in can in general however be expected to give similar
of a high value may appear safe, this is not necessarily results.
so. This apparent paradox may be explained by a few years replace the existing British code BS8110.
considering modes of failure. This article compares the two codes in the context of
There are two major modes of failure, based on design of primary structural elements. Elements in compression and flat slabs
strength and fracture. Improving resistance to strength Of particular note is that Eurocode 2 permits much N-M interaction charts (axial load capacity plotted
higher strength concrete to be used than currently any against flexural moment capacity) for a 300 mm x 300 mm
can be achieved with a high factor but leads to thicker
benefit can be derived from using BS 8110. Concrete section have been produced taking a value of αcc= 0.85
tube walls. But increasing the wall thickness also
strengths are referred to by cylinder strengths, which are (refer to Eurocode 2 stress block above). As can be seen
increases the potential for brittle fracture and this is a opposite, they give close agreement between Eurocode 2
typically 10-20% less than the corresponding cube
failure mode more to be feared than bending. strengths. The maximum characteristic cylinder strength and BS8110.
fck permitted is 90 N/mm2, which corresponds to a With regard to flat slabs, part 1 of Eurocode 2 (Design
Using EN1990 reliability index characteristic cube strength of 105N/mm2. of concrete structures – General – Common rules for
The use of the draft of EN1990 enabled rational values Materials and workmanship are not covered in building and civil engineering structures) now has an

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 eurocodesnews: Code Updates

informative annex dealing with the topic. This gives

widths of column and middle strips the same as in
BS8110. The percentages of moments carried by the
strips is given as ranges but the BS8110 values fall within
these ranges and hence may still be used.
The other major issue when designing flat slabs is
dealing with punching shear. The code provisions in
Eurocode 2 dealing with this topic have recently been
revised. Initial indications are that Eurocode 2 is
marginally more economic, mainly because the link
arrangements are more efficient. Detailing of links should
also be easier.

Simplified load combinations and load cases

For practical purposes, the simplified load
combinations of all spans and alternate spans loaded
as per BS8110 is considered sufficient in the majority
of cases. For slabs, the ‘all spans loaded’ condition
only is also considered sufficient subject to the
restrictions as currently imposed in BS8110. Eurocode 3 provides design rules
A major difference between the two codes is the for all kind of steel structures
partial safety factor appropriate to the dead load for
unloaded spans. Using the basic equation, this
difference is highlighted in the table, where γG is the
partial load factor appropriate to dead loads and γQ
that appropriate to imposed (live) loads. EN1993 Part 1.2, Structural fire design
EN1993-1-2 deals with the structural fire design of
EN1992 Eurocode 2 BS 8110
First five parts of Eurocode steel structures. The range of structural members
covered by the code is limited compared to BS 5950-8.
Loaded spans γG = 1.35, γQ = 1.5 γG = 1.4, γQ = 1.6 3 imminent Most notably EN 1993-1-2 does not cover the design of
Unloaded spans γG = 1.35 γG = 1.0 composite members such as floors and concrete-filled
by Charles King, SCI columns. However, guidance on the design of these
EN1990 Eurocode – Basis of structural design also members can now be found in part 1.2 of EN1994
requires spans to be checked as follows Technical editing is now complete on the first five parts Eurocode 4: Design of steel and concrete composite
of EN1993 Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures. These structures.
Loaded spans γG = 1.0, γQ = 1.5
parts are Part 1.2 of Eurocode 3 contains simple calculation
Unloaded spans γG = 1.0
models for the calculation of the capacity of structural
• EN1993-1-1 Eurocode 3 Part 1.1, General rules and members at elevated temperature. These models are
The design should use the critical case. rules for buildings similar in complexity to models used for normal structural
With regard to detailing, it is believed that spacing • EN1993-1-2 Eurocode 3 Part 1.2, Structural fire design design and represent a significant advance in structural
rules may lead to more and smaller bars unless crack fire design. The code also contains the critical
widths are checked. There is a requirement that beam • EN1993-1-8 Eurocode 3 Part 1.8, Design of joints temperature method, which is similar to the current
top steel should be distributed across flanges (both limiting temperature method given in BS 5950-8 and
• EN1993-1-9 Eurocode 3 Part 1.9, Fatigue
tension and compression). information on the mechanical and thermal properties of
• EN1993-1-10 Eurocode 3 Part 1.10, Material structural steels at elevated temperature.
Conclusions toughness and through-thickness properties. It is intended that this part of the code be used in
The advent of Eurocode 2 will have a big impact on conjunction with EN 1991-1-2 Eurocode 1: Actions on
the design of all types of concrete structures. There will This set of five documents forms the first ‘package’ of structures – General actions – Actions on structures
be a learning curve associated with gaining familiarity Eurocode 3. The package will be sent by CEN to the exposed to fire, which provides information on the
and using the new code. However, in general it is not national standards bodies of each of the EU member
wildly different from BS8110 in terms of the design thermal and mechanical actions that should be
states in preparation for the formal vote to accept or considered to act on the structure in the event of a fire.
approach and gives similar answers.
reject the documents for use throughout the entire
Overall Eurocode 2 is less prescriptive and its scope is
European Union. Part 1.8, Design of joints
more extensive than BS8110. It will allow designs not
Users will find that they are required to refer to
currently permitted in the UK, and will give designers the EN1993-1-8 gives rules for the resistance of
opportunity to derive benefit from the considerable EN1990 Eurocode – Basis of structural design to find the
components of connections, including bolts and welds. It
advances in concrete technology over recent years. required load combinations, the various parts of EN1991
also gives rules for the calculation of the resistance and
Eurocode 1: Actions on structures for the loads and
the stiffness of connections suitable for building frames.
Acknowledgements EN1090 Execution of steel structures for workmanship
requirements. A significant difference between Eurocode 3 and
The author would like to acknowledge the funding for common UK practice is that the Eurocode requires
this work provided by the ODPM and the BCA. They will also find that the definition of axes is
different from current BS codes and that most of the explicit classification of joints according to numerical
symbols are different. In addition, many of the resistance values of their stiffness. The classes are nominally
formulae are different from current BS codes. A brief pinned, semi-rigid and rigid and the stiffness limits of
description of the contents of the five new parts of each class are defined. Common UK practice is to
Eurocode 3 is given below. assess the stiffness of joints in a qualitative manner only.

Part 1.1, General rules and rules for buildings Part 1.9, Fatigue
EN1993-1-1 contains rules for material properties, EN1993-1-9 gives rules for fatigue calculations that will
durability, structural analysis (including design be applied both to bridges and to other structures. There
imperfections) and structural stability, cross-sectional may be considerable differences between the national
resistance and buckling resistance. It gives information annexes for this part.
required by designers of buildings, bridges and other
steel structures. However, other parts of Eurocode 3 will Part 1.10, Material toughness and through-thickness
be required for many types of structures other than properties
building frames. EN1993-1-10 will apply to all steel structures, giving a
Interaction charts for a 300 mm x 300 mm section in The scope of part 1.1 differs from current BS codes common framework of requirements for buildings,
compression give close agreement between Eurocode such as BS 5950-1, BS 5400-3 and BS 449 because it bridges and other steel structures. There may again be
2 and BS8110. does not contain any information on load combinations considerable differences between the national annexes
(found in EN1990), fracture toughness (found in part 1.10), for this part, especially in ‘temperature shift’ that is used
or connections (found in part 1.8) to adjust the reliability of the requirements.

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 eurocodesnews: Code Updates

EN1993/4 • preparing national annexes for the bridge-related

parts
EU funds learning • maintaining an electronic library.

programmes for steel codes Eight firms were shortlisted to submit detailed bids.
Details of the winning firms will be included on the
by Sue Armstrong, Sheffield University Eurocodes Expert website at www.eurocodes.co.uk.

As part of the development of EN1993 Eurocode 3: Design

of steel structures and EN1994 Eurocode 4: Design of
Eurocodes in France
composite steel and concrete structures, the European
Commission has been funding a pan-European
by Jean-Armand Calgaro, Ecole Nationale des Ponts et Chaussées
partnership led by Sheffield University to develop a range
of cost-effective training materials. The adoption of the structural Eurocodes in France is
The first project involved producing material for now irreversible since development of existing national
trainers to use in continuing professional development design codes has all but stopped for around 10 years.
courses that would ease the transition from national to Only limited adaptations have been incorporated in some
European codes. A trans-European interpretation to texts, such as clauses concerning high-performance
Eurocode 6 will allow masonary design
make it easier for designers to work anywhere in Europe concrete.
using thin-layer mortar
is also planned. The two first Eurocodes – EN1990 and EN1991-1-1 –
The work has resulted in a series of lectures and were published in France earlier this year as French
worked examples for Eurocodes 3 and 4 that are freely standards (NF EN) by AFNOR. Three other Eurocodes
available from www.ssedta.com. • EN1996-2 Selection of materials and execution of have already been translated into French and the
Last year the partnership obtained further funding masonry translation procedure has started for several other
from the EU Leonardo Da Vinci programme to develop • EN1996-3 Simplified calculation methods and simple Eurocodes or parts. The national annex for the two first
web-based self-learning material. It was recognised that rules for masonry structures. published Eurocodes has been drafted and will be
learning a new code is a long process and that distributed soon for national inquiry. Several other
employers have real financial constraints to sending their EN1996-1-1 was been approved in December 2002 for national annexes are in preparation.
employees on courses. a formal vote. It was originally expected that of EN1996-1- The Eurocode system will be adopted not only for
2 would have been available for voting in May 2003 for a public procurement but also probably for private
Trials in UK and Greece decision in December 2003, but the relevant project team procurement (which implies adoption by control and
The project is currently carrying out trials to compare is struggling and dates are likely to slip a further six insurance companies) and, with appropriate additions,
different combinations of self-learning and interaction months. Both EN1996-2 and -3 are likely to be ready for a for construction works that were originally outside the
with a tutor. At a recent pilot course in Sheffield, students decision on sending to formal vote in December 2003. scope of Eurocodes – such as nuclear plants, dams and
were presented with material from Eurocodes 1, 3 and 4 tunnels.
in different formats – some web-based/self-learning and Design values considered acceptable
some by traditional teaching methods. In some cases the At the meeting, Professor Geoff Edgell explained the Major programme of education
students could communicate with the tutor on-line only analysis of UK research data on the compressive strength In 2001, civil engineering courses at the Ecole
and in other cases face to face. of masonry and how the UK could use the formula Nationale des Ponts et Chaussées became fully
Evaluations of the students’ reaction to the different fk = Kfba fmb given in Eurocode 6. He concluded that the UK ‘European’ with the inclusion of Eurocodes and European
modes of delivery and interaction showed that they should have little difficulty with the proposals, and should directives. Other engineering schools and universities
appreciated the combination of self-learning and be able to accept the recommended values for K, a and b. are now following suit.
traditional delivery. Dr John Morton, the UK’s national technical Continuous education on Eurocodes has also now
Another course started in Athens at the end of May coordinator, is undertaking calibration exercises to check started. It is organised by private institutions – such as
2003, where the ‘guinea pigs’ are practising engineers. the results of calculations using Eurocode 6 will not Ponts-Formation-Edition, Ecole Française du Béton and
Courses will be hosted in other European countries over disadvantage the UK compared with current practice to the ACI Chapter of Paris – as well as by the Directorate
the next 18 months. parts 1 and 2 of BS 5628. He told the meeting that his of International Economic Affairs of the French ministry
Volunteers are currently being sought to try out the preliminary findings were encouraging, and suggested of Equipement. The latter is developing an ambitious
web-based course – please contact Sue Armstrong at the UK will be able to select partial safety factors from an programme over five years for government technicians
[email protected]. acceptable range of values. and engineers.
The material developed during the project and the Cliff Fudge of H&H Celcon gave his personal view on Two books including examples based on EN1990,
findings of the pilot courses will be made available and industry’s thoughts on Eurocode 6. He was quite EN1991 and EN1992 will be published by end of 2003
via the Eurocodes Expert website at enthusiastic, believing that many advantages would dealing with calculation of concrete buildings and
www.eurocodes.co.uk. accrue to UK industry when the Eurocodes became bridges.
available. His own industry – autoclaved aerated concrete Several bridges are being designed with Eurocodes 2,
– looks forward to being able to design using thin-layer 3 and 4 using action and load models defined in
EN1996 mortar, which is an efficient method of laying units widely Eurocode 1 and combinations of actions based on annex
A2 of EN1990. The studies of real bridges provide a good
Eurocode 6 conference used on the continent, but in its infancy in the UK.
background for the drafting of national annexes that will
report Highways Agency appoints be close to the recommendations of the Eurocodes.
Specialised design software now needs to be adapted
to the new methods of calculation.
by Barry Haseltine, Jenkins & Potter Eurocode consultants
The British Masonry Society held a meeting on EN1996
Eurocode 6: Design of masonry structures in London last by Simon Fullalove, Editor Solferino footbridge in Paris – test bed for
November as part of the 6th International Masonry EN 1991 pedestrian load models.
Conference. Professor Tor-Ulf Weck, chairman of the The UK Highways Agency is about to let a seven year,
Eurocode 6 drafting committee, explained the status of £1.6 million Eurocodes consultancy contract. It will cover
the various documents, their overall content and the a wide range of advice relating to the design,
timetable for the remainder of the work. This article is an construction and maintenance of bridges and
updated version of the report on the meeting. foundations including
There are four parts to EN1996
• highlighting conflicts between Highways Agency
• EN1996-1-1 General - Rules for reinforced and standards and Eurocodes
unreinforced masonry (now incorporates part 1.3 on • undertaking calibration studies and producing
lateral load design) worked examples
• EN1996-1-2 General – Structural fire design • developing design guides

6 eurocodesnews JULY 2003 ISSUE 1 www.eurocodes.co.uk

 eurocodesnews: FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Eurocodes Expert aims to develop a database of responses to frequently asked questions about the Eurocodes.
The initial list of FAQs on the website at www.Eurocodes.co.uk is as follows.

What are the Eurocodes? engineering firms, contractors, designers

and product manufacturers in their world-wide
Will Eurocode design cost more
activities. to construct?
The structural Eurocodes are a set of unified
international codes of practice for designing buildings The Eurocodes are innovative and of high technical The medium and long term effects to Industry should
and civil engineering structures, which will eventually quality. They have the most up to date information which at worst be neutral; and there may be savings due to the
replace national codes (e.g. BSI) in the European encompasses expertise from all European countries. innovative aspects of the Eurocodes.
Community. The scope of the Eurocodes is very comprehensive. In the short term there will be increased cost in
The complete suite of structural Eurocodes are being carrying out design to the Eurocodes, until the profession
produced by the Comité Européen de Normalisation
(CEN), the European committee for standardisation. EN
What is the target date of gets familiar with the new suite.

presently has 20 members including the UK. introduction of Eurocodes

There are ten Eurocodes, each consisting a number of in the UK? What is BSI’s involvement
parts (total 58). in the Eurocodes?
EN 1990, alone within the Eurocode suite, gives all the
operative material independent rules (e.g. partial factors Publication of the EN Eurocode parts is expected
between 2002 and 2005. To facilitate the adoption of the In the UK, BSI is heavily involved in many aspects in
for actions, load combination expressions for ultimate
Eurocodes, the various parts have been grouped into the Eurocodes. Its involvement includes the following.
and serviceability limit states), and therefore EN 1992 to
EN 1999, which do not provide material independent packages, which generally relate to different types of
structure (e.g. buildings and bridges). As soon as all parts • Publishing the Eurocodes in the UK together with the
guidance, cannot be used without EN 1990.
in a package are available in EN form, the period of co- UK national annex.
existence commences. Withdrawal of most of the British • Organising mirror committees for every Eurocode,
Who produces the Eurocodes? Standards, for example, is certain to take place by 2008 - through which all UK comments are routed. These
2010. committees also consider both the technical
Each of the Eurocode parts are produced by the aspects and the economic impact of the
separate appropriate sub-committee under the guidance What are the national annexes? Eurocodes, recommend and mange calibrations
against the appropriate BSI standards, and manage
and co-ordination of a technical committee (CEN/TC 250).
Delegates of the twenty CEN members are represented the production of the national annex. The national
It is the responsibility of each national standard body delegations to the CEN Eurocode
in CEN/TC 250 and its sub-committees.
(e.g. the British Standards Institution (BSI) in the UK) to meetings are chosen by these mirror committees.
Drafts of the Eurocode parts are elaborated by project
publish the structural Eurocodes as national standards • BSI holds the influential position for the secretariat
teams, which are selected by the appropriate sub-
and the national competent authority to authorise their for CEN/TC 250.
committees. A project team consists about six experts
use.
who represent the sub-committee. A vast majority of the
The national standard implementing Eurocode part)
project teams include a UK based expert.
will comprise, without any alterations, the full text of the How is progress on Eurocode
A Eurocode is subject to extensive consultation before
it is adopted. Progressive drafts are discussed and
Eurocode and its annexes as published by the CEN. This being communicated?
will be preceded by a national title page and a national
commented up by CEN members and their appointed
foreword followed by a national annex.
experts. A Eurocode part is adopted only after a positive Eurocodes Expert has been established by the
Safety remains a national and not a European
vote by CEN Members. Institution of Civil Engineers, Thomas Telford and various
responsibility, and hence the safety factors given in the
other construction industry bodies to provide a vehicle
Eurocodes are recommended values and these may be
Why Eurocodes? altered by the national annex.
for communicating developments and guidance on the
Eurocodes throughout Europe. In addition to information
Possible differences in geographical or climatic
conditions (e.g. wind or snow maps) or in ways of life, as on its website at www.eurocodes.co.uk, there is a free
The primary objective of the Eurocodes is to improve Users’ Group and the Eurocodes News newsletter.
the competitiveness of the European construction well as different levels of protection that may prevail at
industry — and the professionals and industries national, regional or local level, will be taken into
connected with it — both within and outside the account, by choices left open about values, classes, or How is training being addressed?
alternative methods, identified in the EN Eurocodes to be
European Union.
determined nationally, through the national annex. Various conference and training programmes are
As with other European standards, Eurocodes will be
These values, classes or methods to be chosen or being developed by institutions and industry bodies in the
used in public procurement specifications and to assess
determined at national level, called nationally determined UK and elsewhere to help the construction industry
products for ‘CE’ (Conformité Européen) mark.
parameters (NDPs) will allow the EU member states to adopt and use the Eurocodes.
The introduction of the Eurocodes will also give the
choose the level of safety, including aspects of durability
following benefits and opportunities
and economy applicable to works in their territory,
through their national annex.
• to provide a common understanding regarding the
design of structures between owners, operators and
users, designers, contractors and manufacturers of
Are the Eurocodes mandatory?
construction products
• to facilitate the exchange of construction services Eurocodes will probably be used as mandatory for
between member states public procurement specifications and to assess
• to facilitate the marketing and use of structural products for ‘CE’ (Conformité Européen) mark.
components and kits of parts in member states In the UK, they will enjoy the same status as BSI
• be a common basis for research and development in codes presently enjoy and within a few years be the only
the construction sector codes listed in the approved document as meeting the
• allow the preparation of common design aids and requirements. Both the UK Highways Agency and
software Railway Safety, for example, plan full implementation into
• increase the competitiveness of the European civil their technical specifications.

www.eurocodes.co.uk JULY 2003 ISSUE 1 eurocodesnews 7

 eurocodesnews: Publications and Events

Eurocodes publications
Eurocodes Expert aims to provide details of all Listed below are all publications in the Eurocodes
Eurocodes Users’ Group
offers FREE membership
Eurocodes Expert has established a Eurocodes
significant publications relating to Eurocodes, Expert database at the end of May 2003. They are Users’ Group to provide support and aid on the
including the codes themselves, guide books, journal categorised by the Eurocodes they relate to, with the use, interpretation and implementation of the
papers, case studies and meeting reports. most recent publications shown first. new codes.
Several of the documents are free to download via Please let the editor know of any errors or Joining the Users’ Group will help you and
the Eurocodes website at www.eurocodes.co.uk, which omissions. In due course it is hoped to include your organisation to understand Eurocode
also includes contact details for all other publications. software titles. developments as well as feed back your views
and needs to Eurocodes Expert.
Author Title Year Publisher Cost Users’ Group membership benefits include
published
• free copy of the Eurocodes News
General newsletter with updates on the Eurocodes
programme and timetable, case studies
Office of the Deputy Prime Minister Implementation of Structural Eurocodes in the UK 2003 Office of the Deputy Prime Minisiter Free
Highways Agency Highways Agency Structural Eurocodes - Eurocodes
and articles by industry experts
implementation newsletter December 2002 2002 Highways Agency Free • email help for basic queries on the
Gulvanessian H and Driscoll R Eurocodes - the new environment for structural design 2001 ICE (Civil Engineering journal) £15 Eurocodes programme, implementation
Gulvanessian H Structural Eurocodes: their adoption in the UK 1999 BRE £7.50
and available support
EN1990 Eurocode – Basis of structural design • low-cost presentations to organisations on
conversion and implementation
BSI BS EN 1990 Eurocode: Basis of Structural Design 2002 BSI £116
• regular email updates on the Eurocode
Gulvanessian H, Calgaro J-A and Hollcky M Designers’ Guide to EN 1990 Eurocode:
Basis of structural design 2002 Thomas Telford £50 programme
Gulvanessian H EN 1990 Eurocode: Basis of structural design 2001 ICE (Civil Engineering journal) Free • 20% discount on Eurocode publications.
EN1991 Eurocode 1: Actions on structures Membership of the Users’ Group will be free
Gulvanessian H EN1991 Eurocode 1: Actions on structures 2001 ICE (Civil Engineering journal) Free
of charge until 31 December 2003
To subscribe, visit, www.eurocodes.co.uk
EN1992 Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures or call the Eurocodes Expert manager on
Chana P A Making the change: implementing Eurocode 2 2002 Concrete Society (Concrete magazine) Free to
020 7665 2303.
members
Moss R Approaches to the design of reinforced concrete flat slabs 2001 BRE £40
Narayanan R S
Moss R
EN1992 Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures
Early age acceptance of concrete
(improved quality management): Task 6
2001

2000
ICE (Civil Engineering journal)

BRE
Free

£28
Training in Eurocodes
Pullen A D, Newman J B, Chana P S Process efficient concreting: improved speed and quality 2000 BRE £28
EN1990 course
EN1993 Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures ICE subsidiary, Thomas Telford Training is
Kamtekar A G, Little G H and Cunningham A The plastic design of steel sway frames 2001 ICE (Structures and Buildings journal) £15 running a one-day course called ‘EN1990
Taylor J C EN1993 Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures 2001 ICE (Civil Engineering journal) Free Eurocode: Basis of Structural Design’ on 20
Taylor J C and King C M Comparison of National Application Documents for
Eurocode 3: Part 1.1 and Eurocode 4: Part 1.1 2001 Steel Construction Institute £40 October 2003 at Ascot. The course is aimed at
Davies A W, Griffith D S C and Hoglund T Shear strength of steel plate girders 1999 ICE (Structures and Buildings journal) £15 designers, product manufacturers and
Taylor J C; Baddoo N R,
Morrow A W and Gibbons C
Steelwork design guide to Eurocode 3:
Part 1.1 - Introducing Eurocode 3 (3rd ed.)
1999 Steel Construction Institute £10 academics and covers:
• implementation in the UK
EN1994 Eurocode 4: Design of composite steel and concrete structures
• national annexes and nationally
Johnson R P and Anderson D EN1994 Eurocode 4: Design of
composite steel and concrete structures 2001 ICE (Civil Engineering journal) Free
determined parameters
Fire and Steel Construction The fire resistance of • principles of limit states design
concrete filled tubes to Eurocode 4 2000 Steel Construction Institute £15 • actions, material and product properties
Zhong S T and Goode C D Composite construction for columns
in high-rise buildings in China 2000 ICE (Structures and Buildings journal) £15 and geometric data
Bailey C Effective lengths of concrete-filled steel • verification by the partial factor method
square hollow sections in fire 1999 ICE (Structures and Buildings journal) £15
• application for buildings and civil
EN1995 Eurocode 5: Design of timber structures engineering works
• management of structural reliability.
Harris R, Kelly O Downland Gridshell - an innovation in timber design 2003 ICE (Civil Engineering journal) £15
TRADA Technology Multiple fastener joints:
guidances on BS 5268-2 and Eurocode 5 2003 TRADA £8
The cost is £225 per delegate excluding VAT.
Drummond I, Kermani A, Wamuziri S Reliability of timber structural systems - a review 2001 ICE (Structures and Buildings journal) £15 Details and on-line booking are available from
Steer P J EN1995 Eurocode 5: Design of timber structures 2001 ICE (Civil Engineering journal) Free the Eurocodes Expert website
TRADA Technologoy Eurocode 5 - an introduction 2000 TRADA £5 www.eurocodes.co.uk
TRADA Technology Resin repairs to timber structures - volume 2 -
design examples to Eurocode 5 2000 TRADA £12
TRADA Technology Bracing for non-domestic timber trussed rafter roofs 1999 TRADA £8 Constructive contributions to the newsletter
are always welcomed and should be emailed
EN1996 Eurocode 6: Design of masonry structures to the editor Simon Fullalove at
Haseltine B A Eurocode 6 Session Report, [email protected]
6th International Masonry Conference, London 2002 British Masonry Society Free
Haseltine B A EN1996 Eurocode 6: Design of masonry structures 2001 ICE (Civil Engineering journal) Free
telephone: 020 8744 2028
fax: 020 8891 2462.
EN1997 Eurocode 7: Geotechnical design
The current issue of the newsletter is also
Orr T L L, Farrell E R Geotechnical Design to Eurocode 7 - Second Edition 2003 Springer-Verlag £55
Driscoll R and Simpson B EN1997 Eurocode 7: Geotechnical design 2001 ICE (Civil Engineering journal) Free
available on the Eurocodes Expert web site at
Chapman T C516 - Modular gravity retaining walls - design guidance 2000 CIRIA £90
www.eurocodes.co.uk.
Nicholson D, Tse C-M and Penny C R185 - The Observational Method in ground engineering:
principles and applications 1999 CIRIA £90 All other enquires should
be made to the Eurocodes
EN1998 Eurocode 8: Design of structures for earthquake resistance Expert manager Rekha
Thawrani, Thomas Telford
Lubkowski Z A and Duan X EN1998 Eurocode 8: Design of
structures for earthquake resistance 2001 ICE (Civil Engineering journal) Free Ltd, 1 Heron Quay,
Severn R T European experimental research in London, E14 4JD,
earthquake engineering for Eurocode 8 1999 ICE (Structures and Buildings journal) £15
telephone 020 7665 2303
EN1999 Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures
fax 020 7538 2847
Mazzolani F M EN1999 Eurocode 9: Design of aluminium structures 2001 ICE (Civil Engineering journal) Free
e-mail [email protected]

8 eurocodesnews JULY 2003 ISSUE 1 www.eurocodes.co.uk