CHAPTER 3: STRENGTH ANALYSIS OF REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAMS USING NSCP 2001 AND 2010

3
3.1 ANALYSIS VS. DESIGN

Two different types of problems arise in the study of reinforced concrete:

 Analysis – given a cross section, concrete strength, reinforcement size and location, and yield strength, compute
the resistance or strength. In analysis there should be one unique answer.
 Design – given a factored design moment, normally designated as 𝑀𝑢 , select a suitable cross section, including
dimensions, concrete strength, reinforcement, and so on. In design there are many possible solutions.

Although both types of problem are based on the same principles, the procedure is different in each case. Analysis is
easier, because all of the decisions concerning reinforcement, beam size, and so on have been made, and it is only
necessary to apply the strength calculation principles to determine the capacity. Design, on the other hand, involves the
choice of section dimensions, material strengths, and reinforcement placement to produce a cross section that can resist
the moments due to factored loads.

3.2 DESIGN METHODS

Working-Stress Design Method (Allowable-Stress Design) – frequently referred to as WSD, the dead load and live loads
to be supported, called working loads or service loads, were first estimated. Then the members of the structure were
proportioned so that stresses calculated by a transformed area did not exceed certain permissible or allowable values.

Ultimate-Strength Design Method – make use of more rational approach than WSD and uses a more realistic
consideration of safety which provides more economical designs. Strength design uses load factors as multiplier for
service loads and will result to values referred as factored loads. The members are then selected so they will theoretically
just fail under factored loads.

3.3 REQUIRED STRENGTH AND DESIGN STRENGTH

The basic safety equation for any structural elements is:

𝐑𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡 ≥ 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐥𝐨𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝐞𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐬
𝝓𝑹𝒏 ≥ 𝑹𝒖
𝑅𝑛 = nominal strength of a structural member at a section
𝑅𝑢 = factored design load due to factored loads
𝜙 = strength reduction factor

For beams subject to bending (flexural stress):

𝝓𝑴𝒏 ≥ 𝑴𝒖
𝑀𝑛 = nominal moment strength of a cross section
𝑀𝑢 = factored design moment

3.4 LOAD FACTORS AND LOAD COMBINATIONS

Load factors are numbers that are multiplied to service loads in order to increase its estimated values applied to
structures. The loads are increased to take account for some uncertainties involved in estimating their magnitudes.

Section 409.3, NSCP 2001

409.3.1 Required strength U to resist dead load 𝐷 and live load 𝐿 shall be equal to:
𝑈 = 1.4𝐷 + 1.7𝐿 (409-1)

409.3.2 If resistance to structural effects of a specified wind load 𝑊 are included in design, the following combinations
of 𝐷, 𝐿 and 𝑊 shall be investigated to determine the greatest required strength 𝑈:
𝑈 = 0.75(1.4𝐷 + 1.7𝐿 + 1.7𝑊) (409-2)
where load combinations shall include both full value and zero value of 𝐿 to determine the more severe condition, and
𝑈 = 0.9𝐷 + 1.3𝑊 (409-3)
but for any combination of 𝐷, 𝐿, and 𝑊, required strength 𝑈 shall not be less than Equation (409-1)

409.3.2 If resistance to specified earthquake loads or forces 𝐸 are included in design, the following combinations of 𝐷,
𝐿 and 𝐸 shall be investigated to determine the greatest required strength 𝑈:
𝑈 = 1.3𝐷 + 1.1𝐿 + 1.1𝐸 (409-4)
where load combinations shall include both full value and zero value of 𝐿 to determine the more severe condition, and
𝑈 = 0.9𝐷 + 1.1𝐸 (409-5)
but for any combination of 𝐷, 𝐿, and 𝐸, required strength 𝑈 shall not be less than Equation (409-1)

409.3.4 If resistance to earth pressure 𝐻 is included in design, required strength 𝑈 shall be at least equal to:
𝑈 = 1.4𝐷 + 1.7𝐿 + 1.7𝐻 (409-6)
except that where 𝐷 or 𝐿 reduces the effect of 𝐻, 0.9𝐷 shall be substituted for 1.4𝐷 and zero for 𝐿 shall be used to
determine the greatest required strength 𝑈. For any combination of 𝐷, 𝐿, and 𝐻, required strength 𝑈 shall not be less
than Equation (409-1)

409.3.5 If resistance to loadings due to weight and pressure of fluids with well-defined densities and controllable
maximum heights, 𝐹 is included in design, such loading shall have a load factor of 1.4 and be added to all loading
combinations that include live load.

409.3.7 Where structural effects 𝑇 of differential settlement, creep, shrinkage, expansion of shrinkage compensating
concrete or temperature change may be significant in design, required strength 𝑈 shall be at least equal to:
𝑈 = 0.75(1.4𝐷 + 1.4𝑇 + 1.7𝐿) (409-7)
but required 𝑈 shall not be less than
𝑈 = 1.4(𝐷 + 𝑇) (409-8)
Estimations of differential settlement, creep, shrinkage, expansion of shrinkage-compensating concrete or temperature
change shall be based on realistic assessment of such effects occurring in service.

Section 409.3, NSCP 2010

For ultimate strength design, the required strength shall be at least equal to the effects of factored loads in the Eq. 409-
1 to Eq. 409-7. The effect of one or more loads not acting simultaneously shall be investigated.
𝑈 = 1.4(𝐷 + 𝐹) (409-1)
𝑈 = 1.2(𝐷 + 𝐹 + 𝑇) + 1.6(𝐿 + 𝐻) + 0.5(𝐿𝑟 𝑜𝑟 𝑅) (409-2)
𝑈 = 1.2𝐷 + 1.6(𝐿𝑟 𝑜𝑟 𝑅) + (1.0𝐿 𝑜𝑟 0.8𝑊) (409-3)
𝑈 = 1.2𝐷 + 1.6𝑊 + 1.0𝐿 + 0.5(𝐿𝑟 𝑜𝑟 𝑅) (409-4)
𝑈 = 1.2𝐷 + 1.0𝐸 + 1.0𝐿 (409-5)
𝑈 = 0.9𝐷 + 1.6𝑊 + 1.6𝐻 (409-6)
𝑈 = 0.9𝐷 + 1.0𝐸 + 1.6𝐻 (409-7)
 The load factor on live load L in Eq. 409-3 to Eq. 409-5 shall be permitted to be reduced to 0.5 except for garages,
areas occupied as places of public assembly, and all areas where L is greater than 4.8 kPa.
 Where wind load W has not been reduced by a directionality factor, it shall be permitted to use 1.3W in place of 1.6W
in Eq. 409-4 and 409-6.
 Where E is based on service-level seismic forces, 1.4E shall be used in place of 1.0E in Eq. 409-5 and 409-7.

Special Seismic Load Combinations for both allowable stress design and strength design (Section 203.5)
𝑈 = 1.2𝐷 + 𝑓1 𝐿 + 1.0𝐸𝑚 (203-19)
𝑈 = 0.9𝐷 ± 1.0𝐸𝑚 (203-20)
The following earthquake loads shall be used in the load combinations (Section 208.5.1.1):
𝐸 = 𝜌𝐸ℎ + 𝐸𝑣 (208-1)
𝐸𝑚 = Ω𝑜 𝐸ℎ (208-2)

3.5 STRENGTH REDUCTION FACTORS

Strength reduction factors, 𝜙, are numbers multiplied to nominal loads to decrease its value. The decrease of value is
to take account for the uncertainties of material strengths, inaccuracies in design equations, approximations in analysis,
possible variations in dimensions of the concrete sections and placement of reinforcement, the importance of members
in the structures of which they are part, and so on.

Section 409.4.2, NSCP 2001

Strength reduction factor 𝜙 shall be as follows:
(409.4.2.1) Flexure, without axial load 0.90
(409.4.2.2) Axial load and axial load with flexure. (For load with flexure, both axial load and moment nominal strength
shall be multiplied by appropriate single value of 𝜙.)
Axial tension and axial tension with flexure 0.90
Axial compression and axial compression with flexure:
Members with spiral reinforcement
conforming to Section 410.10.3 0.75
Other reinforced members 0.70
except that for low values of axial compression, 𝜙 shall be permitted to be increased in accordance with the following:
 For members in which ℎ does not exceed 415 MPa, with symmetric reinforcement, and with (ℎ − 𝑑 ′ − 𝑑𝑠 )/ℎ not less
than 0.70, 𝜙 shall be permitted to be increased linearly to 0.90 as 𝜙𝑃𝑛 decreases from 0.10𝑓’𝑐 𝐴𝑔 to zero.
 For other reinforced members, 𝜙 shall be permitted to be increased linearly to 0.90 as 𝜙𝑃𝑛 decreases from 0.10𝑓’𝑐 𝐴𝑔
or 𝜙𝑃𝑛 whichever is smaller, to zero.
(409.4.2.3) Shear and Torsion 0.85
(409.4.2.4) Bearing on concrete 0.70
(409.4.2.5) Post-tensioned anchorage zones 0.85
(409.4.4.4) In Seismic Zone 4, strength-reduction factors 𝜙 shall be given above except for the following:
(409.4.4.1) The shear strength-reduction factor shall be 0.6 for the design of walls, topping slabs used as diaphragms over
precast concrete members and structural framing members, with the exception of joints, if their nominal shear strength is less
than the shear corresponding to development of their nominal flexural strength. The nominal flexural strength shall be
determined corresponding to the most critical factored axial loads including earthquake effects. The shear strength reduction
factor for joints shall be 0.85.
(409.4.4.2) Reinforcement used for diaphragm chords or collectors placed in topping slabs over precast concrete
members shall be designed using a strength-reduction factor of 0.6.
(409.4.5) Strength reduction factor 𝜙 for flexure, compression, shear and bearing of structural plain concrete in Section
422 shall be 0.65.

Section 409.4.2, NSCP 2010

Strength reduction factor 𝜙 shall be given in Sections 409.4.2.1 through 409.4.2.7:
(409.4.2.1) Tension controlled sections 0.90
(409.4.2.2) Compression controlled sections
Members with spiral reinforcement 0.75
Other reinforcement 0.65

For sections in which the net tensile strength, 𝜀𝑡 , is between the limits for compression-controlled and tension controlled
sections, 𝜙 shall be permitted to be linearly increased from that for compression-controlled sections to 0.90 as 𝜀𝑡
increases from the compression strain limit to 0.005.

Alternatively, when Section 425 is used, for members which 𝑓𝑦 does not exceed 415 MPa, with symmetric reinforcement,
and with (ℎ − 𝑑 ′ − 𝑑𝑠 )/ℎ not less than 0.70, 𝜙 shall be permitted to be increased linearly to 0.90 as 𝜙𝑃𝑛 decreases from
0.10𝑓’𝑐 𝐴𝑔 to zero. For other reinforced members, 𝜙 shall be permitted to be increased linearly to 0.90 as 𝜙𝑃𝑛 decreases
from 0.10𝑓’𝑐 𝐴𝑔 or 𝜙𝑃𝑛 whichever is smaller, to zero.

(409.4.2.3) Shear and Torsion 0.75

(409.4.2.4) Bearing on concrete 0.65
(409.4.2.5) Post-tensioned anchorage zones 0.85
(409.4.2.6) Strut –and-tie models 0.75
(409.4.2.7) Flexural sections in pre-tensioned members where strand embedment is less than the development length
as provided in Section 412.10.1.1:
 From the end of the member to the end of transfer length 0.75
 From the end of the transfer length to the end of the
development length 𝜙 shall be permitted to be linearly
increased from 0.75 to 0.90
where bonding of a strand does not extend to the end of the member, strand embedment shall be assumed to begin at
the end of the deboned length. See also Section 412.10.3

3.6 BEAM FORMULAS AND DERIVATIONS

Tests of reinforced concrete beams confirm that strains vary in proportion to distances from the neutral axis even on the
tension sides and even near ultimate loads. Compression stresses vary approximately in a straight line until the
maximum stress equals about 0.50𝑓’𝑐 . This is not the case, however, after stresses go higher. When the ultimate load
is reached, the strain and stress variations are approximately as shown in Figure 3.3. Whitney replaced the curved
stress block at actual stress distribution with an equivalent rectangular block of intensity 0.85𝑓’𝑐 and depth of
compression stress 𝑎 = 𝛽1 𝑐, as shown in Figure 3.3.The area of this rectangular block should equal that of the curved
stress block, and the centroids of the two blocks should coincide. Sufficient test results are available for concrete beams
to provide the depths of the equivalent rectangular stress blocks. (Section 410.3.7.1, NSCP 2001 and 2010)

Figure 3.3 Actual and Equivalent Stress Diagram

Figure 3.4 Stress and Strain Distribution

(Section 410.3.7.3, NSCP 2001) Factor 𝛽1 shall be taken as 0.85 for concrete strengths 𝑓’𝑐 up to and including 30 MPa.
For strengths above 30 MPa, 𝛽1 shall be reduced continuously at a rate of 0.05 for each 7 MPa of strength excess of
30 MPa, but 𝛽1 shall not be taken less than 0.65

(Section 410.3.7.3, NSCP 2010) Factor 𝛽1 shall be taken as 0.85 for concrete strengths 𝑓’𝑐 for 17 MPa up to 28 MPa.
For strengths above 28 MPa, 𝛽1 shall be reduced linearly at a rate of 0.05 for each 7 MPa of strength excess of 28 MPa,
but 𝛽1 shall not be taken less than 0.65

To derive the equations, we equate forces horizontal as shown in Figure 3.4, we can derive the formula of the depth of
compression stress block, 𝑎:
0.85𝑓’𝑐 𝑎𝑏 = 𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑦
𝑨𝒔 𝒇 𝒚
𝒂=
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒃
We denote the ratio of area of steel to effective concrete area as steel ratio, 𝜌:
𝑨𝒔
𝝆=
𝒃𝒅
Substituting the steel ratio from the equation of the depth of compression stress block, the equation becomes:
𝝆𝒇𝒚 𝒅
𝒂=
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄
Assuming the section is tension controlled (steel will yield first before concrete reaches its ultimate strength), the value
of the nominal moment (for rectangular beams) can be written as:
𝑎 𝑎
𝑀𝑛 = 𝑇 (𝑑 − ) = 𝐶 (𝑑 − )
2 2
𝒂 𝒂
𝑴𝒏 = 𝑨𝒔 𝒇𝒚 (𝒅 − ) = 𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒂𝒃 (𝒅 − )
𝟐 𝟐
The usable flexural strength is:
𝒂
𝝓𝑴𝒏 = 𝝓𝑨𝒔 𝒇𝒚 (𝒅 − )
𝟐
3.7 BALANCED, TENSION CONTROLLED, AND COMPRESSION CONTROLLED SECTIONS

Balanced Design/Balanced Condition – balanced strain conditions exist at a cross section when tension reinforcement
reaches the strain corresponding to its specified yield strain 𝑓𝑦 just as concrete in compression reaches its assumed
ultimate strain of 0.003 (Section 410.4.2, NSCP 2010). Balanced condition is a design so proportion that it divides two
different types of failure modes which are brittle and ductile failure mode.

Figure 3.4 Strain diagram at balanced condition

Figure 3.5 Strain diagram for tension controlled section

Figure 3.6 Strain diagram for compression controlled section

Tension Controlled (Ductile/Underreinforced) – sections are tension-controlled if the net tensile strain in the extreme
tension steel, 𝜀𝑡 , is equal to or greater than 0.005 when the concrete in compression reaches its assumed strain limit of
0.003. Sections with 𝜀𝑡 between compression-controlled strain limit and 0.005 constitute a transition region between
compression-controlled and tension-controlled sections (Section 410.4.4, NSCP 2010). A beam section with lesser steel
than that of balanced condition will fail in ductile behavior. The decrease of tensile steel will result to higher location of
N.A. which will cause the concrete to reach a strain 0.003 after steel yields. The increase of load at this section will
cause the steel to stretch at a considerable amount. The strain of steel will continue to increase resulting to large
deflections, however, as the stress in steel reaches 𝑓𝑦 the stress will not increase. As the load further increases, the
compressive concrete fails as a secondary effect. The type of failure is desirable because of adequate warning of the
users.
Compression Controlled (Brittle/Overreinforced) – sections are compression-controlled if the net tensile strain, 𝜀𝑡 , is
equal to or less than the compression-controlled strain limit when the concrete in compression reaches its assumed
strain limit of 0.003. The compression controlled strain limit is the net tensile strain in the reinforcement at balanced
strain conditions. For Grade 415 reinforcement, and for all prestressed reinforcement, it shall be permitted to set the
compression-controlled strain limit equal to 0.002 (Section 410.4.3, NSCP 2010). A beam section with more steel
required than that of balanced condition will fail in a brittle behavior. The increase of tensile steel will result to lower
location of N.A. which will cause the concrete to reach a strain of 0.003 before steel yields. Undesirable failure occurs
since failure will be initiated by sudden crushing of the compressive concrete.

To derive expressions for balanced condition, we apply similar triangles, and knowing that 𝐸𝑠 is 200,000 MPa:
𝑐 𝑑𝑡 − 𝑐
=
0.003 𝑓𝑦 ⁄200,000 MPa
𝟔𝟎𝟎𝒅𝒕
𝒄 = 𝒄𝒃 =
𝟔𝟎𝟎 + 𝒇𝒚
From the equation, 𝑎 = 𝜌𝑓𝑦 𝑑 ⁄0.85𝑓’𝑐 , we can get
𝜌𝑏 𝑓𝑦 𝑑
𝛽1 𝑐𝑏 =
0.85𝑓’𝑐
Substituting the equation of 𝑐𝑏 , we can obtain the equation of steel ratio at balanced condition, 𝜌𝑏 :
600𝑑 𝜌𝑏 𝑓𝑦 𝑑
𝛽1 ( )=
600 + 𝑓𝑦 0.85𝑓’𝑐
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝜷𝟏 𝟔𝟎𝟎
𝝆𝒃 = ( )
𝒇𝒚 𝟔𝟎𝟎 + 𝒇𝒚

(Section 410.4.3, NSCP 2001) For flexural members, and for members subject to combined flexure and compressive
axial load when the design axial load strength 𝜙𝑃𝑛 is less than the smaller of 0.10𝑓’𝑐 𝐴𝑔 or 𝜙𝑃𝑏 , the ratio of reinforcement
𝜌 provided shall not exceed 0.75 of the ratio 𝜌𝑏 that would produce balanced strain conditions for the section under
flexure without axial load. For members with compression reinforcement, the portion of 𝜌𝑏 equalized by compression
reinforcement need not be reduced by the 0.75 factor.
(Section 410.4.5, NSCP 2010) For non-prestressed flexural members and non-prestressed members with factored axial
compressive load less than 0.10𝑓’𝑐 𝐴𝑔 , 𝜀𝑡 , at nominal strength shall not be less than 0.004. Because all values of 𝜀𝑦 for
current reinforcing steel bars are less than 0.004, this ductility requirement ensures a tension-controlled flexural member.

3.8 MINIMUM REINFORCEMENT OF FLEXURAL MEMBERS

(Section 410.6, NSCP 2001 and 2010)

410.6.1 At every section of a flexural member where tensile reinforcement is required by analysis, except as provided
in Sections 410.6.2, 410.6.3 and 410.6.4, 𝐴𝑠 provided shall not be less than that given by:
(Eq 410-3)
√𝒇’𝒄
𝑨𝒔 𝒎𝒊𝒏 = 𝒃 𝒅
𝟒𝒇𝒚 𝒘
and not less than
𝟏. 𝟒
𝒃 𝒅
𝒇𝒚 𝒘

410.6.2 For a statically determinate T-section with flange in tension, the area 𝐴𝑠 𝑚𝑖𝑛 , shall be equal to or greater than
the smaller value given either by
√𝒇’𝒄
𝑨𝒔 𝒎𝒊𝒏 = 𝒃 𝒅
𝟐𝒇𝒚 𝒘
Or Eq. 410-3, except that 𝑏𝑤 is replaced by either 2𝑏𝑤 or the width of flange, whichever is smaller.

410.6.3 the requirements of Section 410.6.1 and 410.6.2 need not be applied if at every section, 𝐴𝑠 provided is at least
one-third greater than that required by analysis.

3.9 ANALYSIS OF SINGLY REINFORCED BEAMS

Procedures in analysis for rectangular singly reinforced beam sections: (NSCP 2001)
Determine the ultimate moment capacity of a section given the properties of the beam, 𝐴𝑠 , 𝑏, 𝑑, 𝑓𝑦 , 𝑓’𝑐 :
Step 1: Solve for the steel ratio, 𝜌 = 𝐴𝑠 ⁄𝑏𝑑 .
Step 2: Check if steel yields by comparing the values of 𝜌 to 𝜌𝑏 :
If 𝜌 > 0.75𝜌𝑏 , ductility requirement provided as for Section 410.4.3 not satisfied
If 𝜌 ≤ 0.75𝜌𝑏 , ductility requirement provided as for Section 410.4.3 satisfied
If 𝜌 < 𝜌𝑏 , tension steel yields (𝑓𝑠 = 𝑓𝑦 )
If 𝜌 > 𝜌𝑏 , tension steel does not yield (𝑓𝑠 < 𝑓𝑦 )
Step 3: Calculate the ultimate moment capacity based on conditions:
If 𝜌 < 𝜌𝑏 , calculate the depth of compression stress block and ultimate moment capacity:
𝑨𝒔 𝒇 𝒚
𝒂=
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒃
𝒂 𝒂
𝝓𝑴𝒏 = 𝝓𝑨𝒔 𝒇𝒚 (𝒅 − ) = 𝝓𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒂𝒃 (𝒅 − )
𝟐 𝟐
If 𝜌 > 𝜌𝑏 , express the actual stress of the tension steel, 𝑓𝑠 (lesser than 𝑓𝑦 since it does not yield), and substitute the
expression to the equation 0.85𝑓’𝑐 𝑎𝑏 = 𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑠 , to solve for c and 𝑓𝑠 :
𝑐 𝑑−𝑐
=
0.003 𝑓𝑠 ⁄200,000 MPa
𝒅−𝒄
𝒇𝒔 = 𝟔𝟎𝟎 ( )
𝒄
𝒅−𝒄
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 (𝜷𝟏 𝒄)𝒃 = 𝑨𝒔 [𝟔𝟎𝟎 ( )]
𝒄
Calculate the depth of compression stress block and ultimate moment capacity of the section:
𝜶 = 𝜷𝟏 𝒄
𝒂 𝒂
𝝓𝑴𝒏 = 𝝓𝑨𝒔 𝒇𝒔 (𝒅 − ) = 𝝓𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒂𝒃 (𝒅 − )
𝟐 𝟐

Procedures in analysis for rectangular singly reinforced beam sections: (NSCP 2010)
Step 1: Calculate the values of 𝑎 and 𝑐:
𝑨𝒔 𝒇 𝒚
𝒂=
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒃
𝒂
𝒄=
𝜷𝟏
Step 2: Calculate the value of the strain at the tension steel, 𝜀𝑡 :
𝒅𝒕 − 𝒄
𝜺𝒕 = (𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟑)
𝒄
If 𝜀𝑡 < 0.004, ductility requirement provided as for Section 410.4.5 not satisfied, beam section may not be used
If 𝜀𝑡 ≥ 0.004, ductility requirement provided as for Section 410.4.5 satisfied, beam section may be used
If 𝜀𝑡 ≥ 0.005, tension controlled
If 𝜀𝑦 < 𝜀𝑡 < 0.005, transition region
If 𝜀𝑡 ≤ 𝜀𝑦 , compression controlled
Step 3: Calculate the reduction factor, 𝜙, and the ultimate moment capacity of the section:
𝒂 𝒂
𝝓𝑴𝒏 = 𝝓𝑨𝒔 𝒇𝒚 (𝒅 − ) = 𝝓𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒂𝒃 (𝒅 − )
𝟐 𝟐

Example 1: Determine the design moment capacity, 𝜙𝑀𝑛 , using NSCP 2001 and NSCP 2010 specifications given the
following properties. If the beam sections carry an ultimate moment, 𝑀𝑢 , of 215 kN-m, determine whether it is safe or
not.
(a) 𝑏 = 300 mm, ℎ = 500 mm, 𝑑 = 437.5 mm, 𝐴𝑠 = 4 – 25 mm (single layer), 𝑓’𝑐 = 21 MPa and 𝑓𝑦 = 345 MPa
(b) 𝑏 = 350 mm, ℎ = 500 mm, 𝑑 = 534 mm, 𝐴𝑠 = 4 – 32 mm (single layer), 𝑓’𝑐 = 21 MPa and 𝑓𝑦 = 345 MPa
(c) 𝑏 = 300 mm, ℎ = 450 mm, 𝑑 = 382 mm, 𝐴𝑠 = 3 – 36 mm (single layer), 𝑓’𝑐 = 28 MPa and 𝑓𝑦 = 414 MPa
(d) 𝑏 = 300 mm, ℎ = 400 mm, 𝑑 = 332 mm, 𝐴𝑠 = 3 – 36 mm (single layer), 𝑓’𝑐 = 28 MPa and 𝑓𝑦 = 414 MPa

Example 2: Determine the ultimate moment capacity of the beam section shown using NSCP 2001 and NSCP 2010
specifications. Use 𝑓’𝑐 = 28 MPa and 𝑓𝑦 = 415 MPa. If the section carries a service dead load moment of 120 kN-m,
what is the max service live load it could carry? U = 1.2D + 1.6L for NSCP 2010 and U = 1.4D + 1.7L for NSCP 2001.

Example 3: (NSCP 2001) A 6 meter simply supported reinforced concrete rectangular beam is 250 mm wide. The total
depth is 600 mm and its effective depth is 500 mm. It is reinforced for tension (bottom) only with 3−25mm diameter
rebars. It carries a slab which is 150 mm thick and 5 m wide. Weight of concrete is 24 kN/m 3. Use 𝑓’𝑐 = 28 MPa and
𝑓𝑦 = 248 MPa. Use load combination of U = 1.4D + 1.7L.
(a) Determine the total unfactored service dead load in kN/m.
(b) Determine the nominal moment capacity of the beam.
(c) Determine the maximum unfactored uniform live load the beam can carry.
(d) Repeat part (c) if the unfactored live load is a concentrated load placed at the midspan.

3.10 ANALYSIS OF T-BEAMS

Reinforced concrete floor systems normally consist of slabs and beams that are placed monolithically. As a result, the
two parts act together to resist loads. In effect, the beams have extra widths at their tops, called flanges, and the resulting
T-shaped beams are called T beams. The part of a T beam below the slab is referred to as the web or stem. In T-beam
construction, the flange and web shall be built integrally or otherwise effectively bond together (Section 408.11.1, NSCP
2001; Section 408.13.1, NSCP 2010) The beams may be L shaped if the stem is at the end of a slab as shown in beam
CD as shown Figure 3.7. The stirrups in the webs extend up into the slabs, as perhaps do bent-up bars, with the result
that they further make the beams and slabs act together.

Figure 3.7 T-beams formed when beams and slabs are placed monolithically

Figure 3.8 Effective size of T-beams

The hatched area in Figure 3.8 shows the effective size of a T beam. (Section 408.11.2-3, NSCP 2001; Section 408.13.2-
3, NSCP 2010) Width of slab effective as T-beam flange shall not exceed one-fourth the span length of the beam, and
the effective overhanging slab width shall not exceed:
 Eight times the slab thickness; or
 One-half the clear distance to the next web.
For beams with slab on one side only, the effective overhanging flange width shall not exceed:
 One-twelve the span length of beam
 Six times the slab thickness; or
 One-half the clear distance to the next web
Figure 3.9. Effective flange width

Thus, for T beams with slab on both sides, the effective flange width, 𝑏𝑓 , shall be the minimum of the following:
 𝑐𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑛 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ⁄4
 𝑏𝑤 + 2(16ℎ𝑓 )
 𝑏𝑤 + (𝑠1 ⁄2) + (𝑠2 ⁄2)
Note that if 𝑠1 = 𝑠2 , 𝑏𝑤 + (𝑠1 ⁄2) + (𝑠2 ⁄2) = c − to − c spacing

For T beams with slab on one side only, the effective flange width, 𝑏𝑓 , shall be the minimum of the following:
 𝑏𝑤 + (𝑐𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑛 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ⁄12)
 𝑏𝑤 + 6ℎ𝑓
 𝑏𝑤 + (𝑠1 ⁄2)

The neutral axis for T-beams can fall either in the flange or in the stem, depending on the proportions of the slabs and
stems. If it falls in the flange, and it almost always does for positive moments, the rectangular beam formulas apply, as
can be seen in Figure 3.10(a). The concrete below the neutral axis is assumed to be cracked, and its shape has no
effect on the flexure calculations (other than weight). The section above the neutral axis is rectangular. If the neutral
axis is below the flange, however, as shown for the beam of Figure 3.10(b), the compression concrete above the neutral
axis no longer consists of a single rectangle, and thus the normal rectangular beam expressions do not apply.

Figure 3.10 Location of N.A. for T-beams (Design of Reinforced Concrete: McCormac and Brown)
Figure 3.11. Positive and negative moment regions (Reinforced Concrete, Mechanics and Design: Wight and
MacGregor)

An exaggerated deflected view of the interior beam is shown in Figure 3.11. This beam develops positive moments at
midspan (section A–A) and negative moments over the supports (section B–B). At midspan, the compression zone is in
the flange, as shown in Figures 3.11b and 3.11d. At the support, the compression zone is at the bottom of the beam
and is rectangular, as shown in Figure 3.11c.

Procedures in analysis for singly reinforced T-beam sections: (NSCP 2001)

Step 1: Assume steel yields (𝑓𝑠 = 𝑓𝑦 ) and compute the area of compression concrete, 𝐴𝑐 :
𝐶=𝑇
0.85𝑓’𝑐 𝐴𝑐 = 𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑦
𝑨𝒔 𝒇 𝒚
𝑨𝒄 =
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄
If 𝐴𝑐 < 𝐴𝑓 , 𝑎 < ℎ𝑓 , the beam can be analyzed as rectangular section proceed to step 2
If 𝐴𝑐 > 𝐴𝑓 , 𝑎 > ℎ𝑓 , the beam is analyzed as T-beam proceed to step 3

Figure 3.12 Stress diagram if 𝑎 < ℎ𝑓

Figure 3.13 Stress diagram if 𝑎 > ℎ𝑓

Step 2: If 𝑎 < ℎ𝑓 , the stress diagram is shown in Figure 3.11:

Calculate the depth of compression stress block and ultimate moment capacity using the equations:
𝑨𝒔 𝒇 𝒚
𝒂=
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒃𝒇
 𝒂 𝒂
𝝓𝑴𝒏 = 𝝓𝑨𝒔 𝒇𝒚 (𝒅 − ) = 𝝓𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒂𝒃𝒇 (𝒅 − )
𝟐 𝟐

Step 3: If 𝑎 > ℎ𝑓 , the stress and strain diagram is shown in Figure 3.13:
Calculate the depth of compression stress block and ultimate moment capacity using the equations:
𝐴𝑐 = 𝐴𝑓 + (𝑎 − ℎ𝑓 )𝑏𝑤
𝑨𝒄 − 𝑨𝒇
𝒂= + 𝒉𝒇
𝒃𝒘
Set the excess distance of 𝑎 below the flange part as 𝑧:
𝒛 = 𝒂 − 𝒉𝒇
Calculate the compressive force produced by the section in the flange (denoted as 𝐶𝑓 ) and a part of the web (denoted
as 𝐶𝑤 ):
𝑪𝒇 = 𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝑨𝒇
𝑪𝒘 = 𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒃𝒘 𝒛
Calculate the individual ultimate capacity that can be provided by the flange and a part of the web:
𝒉𝒇
𝝓𝑴𝒏𝒇 = 𝝓𝑪𝒇 (𝒅 − )
𝟐
𝒛
𝝓𝑴𝒏𝒘 = 𝝓𝑪𝒘 (𝒅 − 𝒉𝒇 − )
𝟐
Calculate the ultimate capacity of the entire section:
𝝓𝑴𝒏 = 𝝓𝑴𝒏𝒇 + 𝝓𝑴𝒏𝒘
Step 4: Verify if steel yields, calculate 𝑐 and 𝑓𝑠 :
𝒂
𝒄=
𝜷𝟏
𝒅−𝒄
𝒇𝒔 = 𝟔𝟎𝟎 ( )
𝒄
If 𝑓𝑠 > 𝑓𝑦 , tension steel yields (almost happens all the time for T-beams)
If 𝑓𝑠 < 𝑓𝑦 , tension steel does not yield (seldom happens)
Note: If tension steel does not yield, the values of 𝑐, 𝑎, 𝑓𝑠 , and 𝜙𝑀𝑛 is recalculated with the same concept as singly
reinforced beams.

Procedures in analysis for singly reinforced T-beam sections: (NSCP 2010)

Step 1: Compute the area of compression concrete, 𝐴𝑐 , and compare the value to 𝐴𝑓 :
𝐶=𝑇
0.85𝑓’𝑐 𝐴𝑐 = 𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑦
𝑨𝒔 𝒇 𝒚
𝑨𝒄 =
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄
Step 2: Calculate the depth of compression stress block:
If 𝐴𝑐 < 𝐴𝑓 , 𝑎 < ℎ𝑓 ,
𝑨𝒔 𝒇 𝒚
𝒂=
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒃𝒇
If 𝐴𝑐 > 𝐴𝑓 , 𝑎 > ℎ𝑓 ,
𝑨𝒄 − 𝑨𝒇
𝒂= + 𝒉𝒇
𝒃𝒘
Step 3: Calculate 𝑐 and 𝜀𝑡 :
𝒂
𝒄=
𝜷𝟏
𝒅𝒕 − 𝒄
𝜺𝒕 = (𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟑)
𝒄
If 𝜀𝑡 < 0.004, ductility requirement provided as for Section 410.4.5 not satisfied, beam section may not be used
If 𝜀𝑡 ≥ 0.004, ductility requirement provided as for Section 410.4.5 satisfied, beam section may be used
If 𝜀𝑡 ≥ 0.005, tension controlled
If 𝜀𝑦 < 𝜀𝑡 < 0.005, transition region
If 𝜀𝑡 ≤ 𝜀𝑦 , compression controlled
Note: Almost all T-beams are tension controlled
Step 4: Calculate the reduction factor, 𝜙, and the ultimate moment capacity of the section:
If 𝐴𝑐 < 𝐴𝑓 , (See Figure 3.12)
𝒂 𝒂
𝝓𝑴𝒏 = 𝝓𝑨𝒔 𝒇𝒚 (𝒅 − ) = 𝝓𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒂𝒃𝒇 (𝒅 − )
𝟐 𝟐
If 𝐴𝑐 > 𝐴𝑓 , (See Figure 3.13)
Set the excess distance of 𝑎 below the flange part as 𝑧:
𝒛 = 𝒂 − 𝒉𝒇
Calculate the compressive force produced by the section in the flange (denoted as 𝐶𝑓 ) and a part of the web (denoted
as 𝐶𝑤 ):
𝑪𝒇 = 𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝑨𝒇
𝑪𝒘 = 𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒃𝒘 𝒛
Calculate the individual ultimate capacity that can be provided by the flange and a part of the web:
𝒉𝒇
𝝓𝑴𝒏𝒇 = 𝝓𝑪𝒇 (𝒅 − )
𝟐
𝒛
𝝓𝑴𝒏𝒘 = 𝝓𝑪𝒘 (𝒅 − 𝒉𝒇 − )
𝟐
Calculate the ultimate capacity of the entire section:
𝝓𝑴𝒏 = 𝝓𝑴𝒏𝒇 + 𝝓𝑴𝒏𝒘

Example 1: Determine the design strength of a T-beam with 𝑓’𝑐 = 28 MPa and 𝑓𝑦 = 414 MPa. The beam has a 9.15 m
simple span and is cast integrally with a floor slab with thickness, ℎ𝑓 = 100 mm. The center to center distance between
the webs are is 1500 mm. The properties of the T-beam are: 𝑏𝑤 = 250 mm, 𝑑 = 600 mm, 𝐴𝑠 = 6 – 28 mm.

Example 2: Compute the ultimate moment capacity of a T-beam with the following properties: 𝑏𝑒 = 750 mm, 𝑏𝑤 = 350
mm, ℎ𝑓 = 100 mm, 𝑑 = 750 mm, 𝐴𝑠 = 8 – 32 mm, 𝑓’𝑐 = 28 MPa, 𝑓𝑦 = 414 MPa.

3.11 DOUBLY REINFORCED BEAMS

Occasionally, beam sections are designed to have both tension reinforcement and compression reinforcement. These
are referred to as doubly reinforced sections. Two cases where compression reinforcement is used frequently are the
negative bending region of continuous beams and midspan regions of long-span or heavily loaded beams where
deflections need to be controlled. The effect of compression reinforcement on the behavior of beams and the reasons
it is used are discussed in this section, followed by a method to analyze such beam sections.

Reasons for Providing Compression Reinforcement

 Reduced sustained-load deflections – the addition of compression reinforcement reduces the long-term deflections
of a beam subjected to sustained loads.
 Increased ductility – the addition of compression reinforcement causes a reduction in the depth of the compression
stress block, a. As a decreases, the strain in the tension reinforcement at failure increases resulting in more ductile
behavior.
 Change the mode of failure from compression to tension – when 𝜌 > 𝜌𝑏 , a beam fails in a brittle manner through
crushing of the compression zone before the steel yields. When enough compression steel is added to such a beam,
the compression zone is strengthened sufficiently to allow the tension steel to yield before the concrete crushes. The
beam then displays a ductile mode of failure.
 Fabrication ease – when assembling the reinforcing cage for a beam, it is customary to provide small bars in the
corners of the stirrups to hold the stirrups in place in the form and also to help anchor the stirrups. If developed
properly, these bars in effect are compression reinforcement, although they generally are disregarded in design,
because they have only a small effect on the moment strength.

Figure 3.14 Stress and strain diagram for doubly reinforced beams

Procedures in analysis for doubly reinforced beam sections: (NSCP 2001)

Step 1: Assume compression and tension steel yields (𝑓′𝑠 = 𝑓𝑦 , 𝑓𝑠 = 𝑓𝑦 ), compute for 𝑎 and 𝑐:
𝐶 + 𝐶′𝑠 = 𝑇
0.85𝑓’𝑐 𝑎𝑏 + 𝐴′𝑠 𝑓𝑦 = 𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑦
(𝑨𝒔 − 𝑨′𝒔 )𝒇𝒚
𝒂=
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇’𝒄 𝒃
𝒂
𝒄=
𝜷𝟏
Step 2: Verify if compression and tension steel yields using the strain diagram in Figure 3.14:
𝜀′𝑠 0.003
=
𝑐 − 𝑑′ 𝑐
𝑓′𝑠 ⁄200,000 MPa 0.003
=
𝑐 − 𝑑′ 𝑐
𝟔𝟎𝟎(𝒄 − 𝒅′)
𝒇′𝒔 =
𝒄
If 𝑓′𝑠 ≥ 𝑓𝑦 , compression steel yields
If 𝑓′𝑠 < 𝑓𝑦 , compression steel does not yield
𝒅−𝒄
𝒇𝒔 = 𝟔𝟎𝟎 ( )
𝒄
If 𝑓𝑠 ≥ 𝑓𝑦 , tension steel yields (almost happens all the time for doubly reinforced beams)
If 𝑓𝑠 < 𝑓𝑦 , tension steel does not yield (seldom happens)
Step 3: Calculate the ultimate moment capacity of the section 𝜙𝑀𝑛 :
If 𝑓′𝑠 ≥ 𝑓𝑦 ,
𝒂
𝝓𝑴𝒏 = 𝝓 [𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇′𝒄 𝒂𝒃 (𝒅 − ) + 𝑨′𝒔 𝒇𝒚 (𝒅 − 𝒅′)]
𝟐
If 𝑓′𝑠 < 𝑓𝑦 , recalculate the value of 𝑐, 𝑎, 𝑓′𝑠 , and the ultimate moment capacity of the section 𝜙𝑀𝑛 :
𝐶 + 𝐶′𝑠 = 𝑇
0.85𝑓′𝑐 𝑎𝑏 + 𝐴′𝑠 𝑓′𝑠 = 𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑦
𝟔𝟎𝟎(𝒄 − 𝒅′)
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇′𝒄 (𝜷𝟏 𝒄)𝒃 + 𝑨′𝒔 = 𝑨𝒔 𝒇 𝒚
𝒄
𝒂 = 𝜷𝟏 𝒄
𝟔𝟎𝟎(𝒄 − 𝒅′)
𝒇′𝒔 =
𝒄
𝒂
𝝓𝑴𝒏 = 𝝓 [𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇′𝒄 𝒂𝒃 (𝒅 − ) + 𝑨′𝒔 𝒇′𝒔 (𝒅 − 𝒅′)]
𝟐

Procedures in analysis for doubly reinforced beam sections: (NSCP 2010)

Step 1: Calculate 𝑎 and 𝑐 using equilibrium equation assuming compression and tension steel yields (𝑓′𝑠 = 𝑓𝑦 , 𝑓𝑠 = 𝑓𝑦 ):
𝐶𝑐 + 𝐶𝑠 = 𝑇
0.85𝑓′𝑐 𝑎𝑏 + 𝐴′𝑠 𝑓𝑦 = 𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑦
𝑨𝒔 𝒇𝒚 − 𝑨′𝒔 𝒇𝒚
𝒂=
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇′𝒄 𝒃
𝒂
𝒄=
𝜷𝟏
Step 2: Compute the strain in the compression steel to verify that it is yielding:
𝜀′𝑠 0.003
=
𝑐 − 𝑑′ 𝑐
𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟑(𝒄 − 𝒅′)
𝜺′𝒔 =
𝒄
If 𝜀′𝑠 ≥ 𝑓𝑦 ⁄𝐸𝑠 , compression steel yields (assumption is correct, 𝑓′𝑠 = 𝑓𝑦 ) go to step (3)
If 𝜀′𝑠 < 𝑓𝑦 ⁄𝐸𝑠 , compression steel does not yield, proceed to step (4)
Step 3: Calculate the value of the strain at the tension steel, 𝜀𝑡 :
𝒅𝒕 − 𝒄
𝜺𝒕 = (𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟑)
𝒄
If 𝜀𝑡 < 0.004, ductility requirement provided as for Section 410.4.5 not satisfied, beam section may not be used
If 𝜀𝑡 ≥ 0.004, ductility requirement provided as for Section 410.4.5 satisfied, beam section may be used
If 𝜀𝑡 ≥ 0.005, tension controlled
If 𝜀𝑦 < 𝜀𝑡 < 0.005, transition region
If 𝜀𝑡 ≤ 𝜀𝑦 , compression controlled
Note: Almost all doubly reinforced beams are tension controlled
Calculate the ultimate moment capacity of the section 𝜙𝑀𝑛 :
𝒂
𝝓𝑴𝒏 = 𝝓 [𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇′𝒄 𝒂𝒃 (𝒅 − ) + 𝑨′𝒔 𝒇𝒚 (𝒅 − 𝒅′)]
𝟐
The ultimate moment capacity of the section 𝜙𝑀𝑛 may also be calculated using the formula:
Step 4: Recalculate 𝑎 and 𝑐 using the actual value of 𝑓′𝑠 :
𝐶𝑐 + 𝐶𝑠 = 𝑇
0.85𝑓′𝑐 𝑎𝑏 + 𝐴′𝑠 𝑓′𝑠 = 𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑦
𝟔𝟎𝟎(𝒄 − 𝒅′)
𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇′𝒄 (𝜷𝟏 𝒄)𝒃 + 𝑨′𝒔 = 𝑨𝒔 𝒇 𝒚
𝒄
𝒂 = 𝜷𝟏 𝒄
Calculate the stress in the compression steel:
 𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟑(𝒄 − 𝒅′)
𝜺′𝒔 =
𝒄
𝒇′𝒔 = 𝜺′𝒔 𝑬𝒔
Calculate the value of the strain at the tension steel, 𝜀𝑡 :
𝒅𝒕 − 𝒄
𝜺𝒕 = (𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟑)
𝒄
If 𝜀𝑡 < 0.004, ductility requirement provided as for Section 410.4.5 not satisfied, beam section may not be used
If 𝜀𝑡 ≥ 0.005, steel yields (tension controlled)
If 𝜀𝑦 < 𝜀𝑡 < 0.005, steel yields (transition)
Note: Almost all doubly reinforced beams are tension controlled
Calculate the ultimate moment capacity of the section 𝜙𝑀𝑛 :
𝒂
𝝓𝑴𝒏 = 𝝓 [𝟎. 𝟖𝟓𝒇′𝒄 𝒂𝒃 (𝒅 − ) + 𝑨′𝒔 𝒇′𝒔 (𝒅 − 𝒅′)]
𝟐

Example 1: Determine the design moment capacity of a doubly reinforced beam given the following properties: 𝑏 = 350
mm, ℎ = 675 mm, 𝑑 = 600 mm, 𝑑′ = 62.5 mm, 𝐴𝑠 = 4 – 36 mm, 𝐴′𝑠 = 2 – 28 mm, 𝑓’𝑐 = 21 MPa, 𝑓𝑦 = 414 MPa.

Example 2: Determine the design moment capacity of a doubly reinforced beam given the following properties: 𝑏 = 350
mm, ℎ = 675 mm, 𝑑 = 600 mm, 𝑑′ = 62.5 mm, 𝐴𝑠 = 4 – 32 mm, 𝐴′𝑠 = 2 – 25 mm, 𝑓’𝑐 = 28 MPa, 𝑓𝑦 = 414 MPa.