Chapter 4: Design of Rectangular Beams and One-Way Slabs

Reference: “Design of Reinforced Concrete,” Tenth Edition, Jack C. McCormac and Russell H. Brown, Chapter 4.

4.1 Load Factors

ACI 318-14 (Section 5.3) presents load factors and load combinations that are to
be used for reinforced concrete design.

Load factors are applied to increase the magnitudes of service or working loads
used with the Strength Design method.
• Load factors are used for loads applied to all types of members, not just beams
and slabs.
• The purpose of these factors is to account for the uncertainties involved in
estimating the magnitudes of dead and live loads.
- The dead load factor is usually 1.2; the live load factor is usually 1.6.
◦ The magnitude of dead loads is more accurately estimated than is the
magnitude of live loads.
◦ Loads that remain in place for long periods of time are much less variable
than those applied for brief periods.
- The seismic load factor is 1.0.
◦ Building codes usually convert seismic loads to ultimate values, thus they
have already been multiplied by a load factor.

The load factors do not vary due to the seriousness of failure.

• The designer may feel that a higher load factor should be used for a hospital
than a cattle barn, but this is not required.
• The designer should consider the seriousness of failure when determining the
magnitude of the service loads.
• The ACI load factors are minimum values, and designers are free to use larger
values as they desire.

Expected values of the individual service loads (dead, live, and environmental loads)
are first estimated.
• Various combinations of these loads, which may possibly occur at the same time,
are grouped together and the largest values that are obtained are used for
analysis and design of structures.
• The resulting combination of service loads, each multiplied by its respective
load factor, is called a factored load.
• The largest value is referred to as the critical or governing load combination.

4.1
• The largest factored load is then used for analysis and design to compute
moments, shears, or other effects on the member.

The following equations from ACI 318-14 (Section 5.3) conform to the
requirements of the International Building Code (IBC) as well as to the values
required by ASCE/SEI 7-10.
• The load combinations - including dead load (D), live load (L), roof live load (Lr),
wind load (W), snow load (S), rain (R), and seismic load (E) - are written as
follows.
1. U = 1.4 D ACI Eq. 5.3.1a
2. U = 1.2 D + 1.6 L + 0.5 (Lr or S or R) ACI Eq. 5.3.1b
3. U = 1.2 D + 1.6 (Lr or S or R) + (1.0 L or 0.5 W) ACI Eq. 5.3.1c
4. U = 1.2 D + 1.0 W + 1.0 L + 0.5 (Lr or S or R) ACI Eq. 5.3.1d
5. U = 1.2 D + 1.0 E + 1.0 L + 0.2 S ACI Eq. 5.3.1e
6. U = 0.9 D + 1.0 W ACI Eq. 5.3.1f
7. U = 0.9 D + 1.0 E ACI Eq. 5.3.1g
U = the design or ultimate load the member needs to be able to resist
The most common load combination is 1.2D + 1.6L.

Note the following additional comments regarding the application of the load
combination expressions.
1. When selecting design live loads, adequate allowance must be made for impact
conditions before the loads are substituted into the combination expressions
(ACI 318-14, Section 5.3.4).
2. Load combinations 6 and 7 are used to reduce the effect of large dead loads
that tend to counter the effects of wind and earthquake loads.
- Wind and seismic loads create tensile forces due to overturning moments
and will generally govern only for tall buildings if high lateral loads are
present.
3. Wind and earthquake forces may be compressive or tensile since these loads
can be in any horizontal direction.
- The signs (i.e. ±) must be accounted for in substituting into the load
combinations.
4. The following additional load types are used in ASCE 7-10, but not used in the
basic load combinations.
F = load due to fluids with well-defined pressures and maximum height

4.2
 H = load due to lateral earth pressure, ground water pressure, or pressure of
bulk materials
T = self-straining load
The designer needs to refer to ASCE for load and load combination information
where these load types may be applicable.

4.2 Design of Rectangular Beams

The procedure followed for the design of reinforced concrete beams is different
from that of other materials because concrete is a composite material.
• Concrete is inexpensive and has good compression qualities.
• Steel is more expensive and has good compression and tension qualities.

The fundamental idea behind all concrete bending design is to ensure that the
member fails in tension and not in compression (i.e. ductile failure mode).
• The design procedure does not design for failure, but means that the mode of
failure provides warning of the impending collapse.

In the design of rectangular sections the designer must consider the following.
• Concrete compression strength and steel yield strength: fc’ and fy are usually
specified by the designer.
• Beam proportions: Beam width and beam depth.
• Area of steel: Determining the required steel area and selecting the size and
number of reinforcing bars.
• Deflection: The required thickness of a non-prestressed beam may depend on
the bending, deflection, or shear strength requirements.
- ACI Code imposes span/depth criteria to prevent excessive deflection.
- Table 9.3.1.1 of the ACI 318-14 (shown below) establishes minimum depth
for non-prestressed beams in terms of fractions of the span length for
normal weight concrete and fy = 60,000 psi.
Minimum thickness, h
Simply One end Both ends
Cantilever
supported continuous continuous
Non-prestressed
ℓ/16 ℓ/18.5 ℓ/21 ℓ/8
beams
ℓ = the span length of the beam

4.3
 - No calculation for deflection is required if the criteria of Table 9.3.1.1 is
satisfied for non-prestressed beams not supporting or attached to
partitions or other construction likely to be damaged by large deflections.
- If the member supports construction, or is attached to construction, that
may be damaged by large deflections, then deflections must be calculated.
◦ If the thickness of the member is less than the thickness specified by
the ACI 318-14 criterion (i.e. Table 9.3.1.1), then deflections must be
computed.
- Since the values in Table 9.3.1.1 are for use with non-prestressed reinforced
concrete members made with normal weight concrete and Grade 60
reinforcement, if a different concrete weight or grade of reinforcement is
used, then the values in ACI Table 9.3.1.1 must be modified in accordance
with Section 9.3.1.1.1 through 9.3.1.1.3, as appropriate.
◦ For fy other than 60,000 psi, the values in Table 9.3.1.1 must be
multiplied by a factor equal to (0.4 + fy/100,000).

A number of combinations of beam width, beam depth, and steel area can provide
the required moment strength.
• A wide, shallow beam may have the same practical moment strength (φMn) as a
narrow, deep beam.

Practical considerations may affect the final choices of the beam dimensions.
• The beam width and overall depth may be known by practical or architectural
considerations.
- A designer may want to match beam and column widths for “clean” lines.
- A designer may not want to match beam and column widths for a “visual
distinction.”
- Minimum beam depths may be controlled by the size of ducts for ventilation
systems.
• A beam section that is too narrow may present a challenge in fitting the
required steel.

There is no easy way to determine the best section.

• Economy depends on more than the volume of concrete and the amount of steel
in a beam.
• Economy should consider labor and the reuse of formwork.

4.4
The equation φMn = φ b d2 Rn will be used in the design of rectangular reinforced
concrete sections.
• This equation allows the use of Tables A.8 through A.13.

ACI 318-14 has recommendations regarding the details related to clearance and
cover requirements for steel reinforcing bars.
• Clearance details are governed by the requirement for concrete to pass through
a layer of bars without segregating the aggregates.
• Cover details are governed by the need for the concrete to protect the steel
reinforcing bars from corrosion.
• Minimum spacing and cover also prevent the concrete from splitting near highly
stressed tension bars.

Spacing requirements in the ACI 318-14 (Section 25.2.1) specify the clear spacing
between parallel bars in a single layer shall be the greatest of the following.
• The bar diameter (db), but not less than 1 inch.
• 1-1/3 times the maximum aggregate size (dagg).

When multiple layers of bars are required, the ACI 318-14 (Section 25.2.2)
requires the following.
• A 1-inch minimum clear distance is required between layers.
• Bars in the upper layers are placed directly above bars in the bottom layer.
• Short transverse spacer bars may be used to separate the layers and support
the upper layers.
- A #8 spacer-bar provides the minimum 1-inch separation between layers.

The ACI 318-14 (Sections 7.7.1 and 20.6.1) prescribes cover requirements.
• Cover is the thickness of the concrete protection for the reinforcement
against weather and other effects.
• Cover is measured from the surface of the steel to the nearest surface of the
concrete.
• Minimum cover for reinforcement in cast-in-place non-prestressed concrete
members must be in accordance with ACI 318-14 (Table 20.6.1.3.1).
- 3” for any member that is cast against and permanently in contact with the
ground.
- 2” for any member with surfaces exposed to the weather or in contact with
the ground (for No. 6 through No. 18 bars).

4.5
 - 1½” for any member with surfaces exposed to the weather or in contact with
the ground (for No. 5 bars and smaller).
- 1½” for surfaces of slabs, joists and walls not exposed directly to the
weather or in contact with the ground (for No. 14 and No. 18 bars).
- ¾” for surfaces of slabs, joists and walls not exposed directly to the
weather or in contact with the ground (for No. 11 bars and smaller).
- 1½” for surfaces beams, columns, pedestals, and tension ties not exposed
directly to the weather or in contact with the ground (for primary
reinforcement, stirrups, ties, spirals, and hoops).
• Table A.5 combines spacing and cover requirements into a tabulation of minimum
beam widths for multiples of various bars.
- Minimum web widths for No. 3 and No. 4 stirrups (used for shear
reinforcement) and 1½” cover are shown.

4.3 Beam Design Examples

The following examples illustrate the design of a simply supported reinforced
concrete rectangular beam.

4.6
Example 4.1 – Rectangular Beam Design for Moment
Given: The rectangular reinforced concrete beam section shown.
MDL = 100 kip-ft (including the weight
of the beam)
MLL = 75 kip-ft
fc’ = 3000 psi
fy = 60,000 psi

Find: Design the beam.

1. Determine the factored design moment Mu.

Mu = 1.2 MDL + 1.6 MLL = 1.2(100) + 1.6(75) = 240 kip-ft

2. Estimate the effective depth d (assume 1.5” cover, #3 stirrups, #11 reinforcing
bars) and calculate the required coefficient of resistance Rn.
d = 25 – 1.5 (cover) – 0.375 (#3 stirrup) – 1.41/2 (half the diameter of #11 bar)
= 22.42”
The #11 bar is the largest practical bar size (although #14 and #18 bars may
be used).
Determine required Rn (using Mu = φMn = φbd2 Rn, and assume φ = 0.90)
Required Rn = Mu/φ b d2 = 240(12”/’)/0.9(10)(22.42)2 = 0.6366

3. Determine the required steel ratio ρ corresponding with the required

coefficient of resistance Rn using Table A.12 Expanded.
From Table A.12 Expanded, for Rn = 0.6397, ρ = 0.0125.
εt is not tabulated, εt > 0.005; this is a tension-controlled section, and φ = 0.90.

4. Compute the required steel area As and check (As)min.

Required As = ρ b d = 0.0125(10)(22.42) = 2.80 in2
Check (As)min (ref. Table A.7).
(As)min = 0.0033 bw d = 0.0033(10)(22.42) = 0.74 in2 < As = 2.80 in2 OK

5. Select the reinforcing bars using Tables A.4 and A.5.

• Theoretically, any combination of bars providing at least 2.80 in2 of steel
area will satisfy the design requirements.
• No fewer than two bars should be used.

4.7
 • Consider a bar pattern that will allow symmetry after bars are cutoff.
• The bars should be the same diameter.
• The bars should be placed in one layer whenever possible.

Using Tables A.4 and A.5, possible selections include:

2 - #11 As = 3.12 in2 Minimum required beam width = 8.07” OK
3 - #10 As = 3.81 in2 Minimum required beam width = 10.33” NG
3 - #9 As = 3.00 in2 Minimum required beam width = 9.76” OK
4 - #8 As = 3.14 in2 Minimum required beam width = 11.25” NG
5 - #7 As = 3.01 in2 Minimum required beam width = 12.75” NG
The most acceptable combination is 3 - #9.
Check the actual effective depth, d.
d = 25 – 1.5 (cover) – 0.375 (No. 3 stirrups) – 1.128/2 (half of the diameter
of the No. 9 bar) = 22.56” > 22.42” OK
This is slightly in excess of the estimated depth d and is conservative (on
the safe side).

6. Sketch the design.

The final design sketch is shown at the right.
The final design sketch should show the following.
• Beam width
• Total beam depth
• Main reinforcement size and number
of bars
• Cover on reinforcement
• Stirrup size

4.8
A second type of design problem may be categorized as free design.
• There are three unknowns: beam width, beam depth, and steel area.
• There are a number of solutions.

Note the following guidelines regarding the three unknowns.

• Whenever possible, flexural elements should be proportioned so that they are
tension-controlled (i.e. εt > 0.005).
• If εt > 0.005, then the strength reduction factor φ = 0.90.
• The reinforcement ratio ρ corresponding to εt = 0.005 may be determined from
Tables A.8 Expanded through A.13+ Expanded.
• The steel area must not be less than (As)min (from Table A.7).
• Supplementary Table S-4 has recommended values for ρ and Rn to use for
design purposes.
• The assumption of a design value for the reinforcement ratio reduces the
number of unknowns from three to two (b and d).
• Based on experience and judgment, rectangular beams commonly have d/b ratios
between 1 and 3.
- Desirable d/b ratios range from 1.5 to 2.2.

4.9
Example 4.2 – Rectangular Beam Design for Moment
Given: The rectangular reinforced concrete
beam section shown.
wDL = 1.35 kips/ft
wLL = 1.90 kips/ft
fc’ = 4000 psi
fy = 60,000 psi

Find: Design the beam.

Solution

1. Determine the factored design moment Mu (temporarily neglecting the weight

of the beam).
wu = 1.2 wDL + 1.6 wLL = 1.2 (1.35) + 1.6(1.90) = 1.62 + 3.04 = 4.66 kips/ft
Mu = wuL2/8 = 4.66(18)2/8 = 188.7 kip-ft

2. Select a steel ratio ρ.

Use the recommended value (ref. Supplementary Table S-4): ρ = 0.0120

3. From Supplementary Table S-4, find the Rn value corresponding to the selected
steel ratio ρ.
Based on ρ = 0.0120, select Rn = 0.6438.

4. Establish a value for b and compute the required effective depth d.

• By architectural requirements.
• By assuming a value for b and solving for d.
For example, let b = 11”.
Using the relationship Mu = φMn = φ b d2 Rn, find the effective depth.
d = (Mu/φ b Rn)1/2 = [188.7(12”/’)/0.9(11)(0.6438)]1/2 = 18.85”
d/b = 18.85/11 = 1.71 OK
• By establishing a desired ratio d/b and then solving for d and b.
For example, let d/b = 2 (i.e. d = 2b)

4.10
 Using the relationship Mu = φMn = φ b d2 Rn, solve for b.
Mu = 0.9 b (2b)2 Rn
188.7 (12”/’) = 0.9 b (2b)2 (0.6438)
2264.4 = 2.32 b3
b3 = 2264.4/2.32 = 976.03
b = 9.92” (Use b = 10”)

Use the value determined for b to find d.

Mu = φ b d2 Rn
188.7 (12”/’) = 0.9(10) d2 (0.6438)
2264.4 = 5.79 d2
d = (2264.4/5.79)1/2 = 19.78”
d/b = 19.78/10 = 1.98 OK

5. Estimate h (assuming 1.5” cover, #3 stirrups, #11 reinforcing bars) and compute
the dead load due to the beam weight.
Using b = 11” and d = 18.85”,
h = 18.85 + 1.5 + 0.375 + 1.41/2 = 21.43” (Use 22”)

6. Revise the factored design Mu to include the additional moment due to the beam
weight.
Compute the dead load due to the weight of the beam.
wDL = (11/12)(22/12) 150 lb/ft3
= 252.1 lb/ft (0.252 kips/ft)
The additional factored dead load: wu = 1.2 (0.252) = 0.30 kips/ft
The additional factored moment: Mu = (0.30)(18)2/8 = 12.2 kip-ft
Total factored moment Mu = 188.7 + 12.2 = 200.9 kip-ft

7. Calculate the required coefficient of resistance Rn, using b and d previously

determined along with the new factored design Mu.
Required Rn = Mu/φ b d2 = 200.9(12”/’)/0.9(11)(18.85)2 = 0.6853
The corresponding ρ = 0.0129 (ref. Table A.13 Expanded)

8. Determine the required As and check (As)min using Table A.7.

As = 0.0129 (11)(18.85) = 2.67 in2
(As)min = 0.0033 bw d = 0.0033(11)(18.85) = 0.68 in2 < As = 2.67 in2 OK

4.11
9. Select the steel reinforcing (ref. Tables A.4 and A.5).
Using Table A.4 and Table A.5, possible selections include the following.
2 - #11 As = 3.12 in2 Minimum required beam width = 8.07” OK
3 - #10 As = 3.81 in2 Minimum required beam width = 10.33” OK
3 - #9 As = 3.00 in2 Minimum required beam width = 9.76” OK
4 - #8 As = 3.14 in2 Minimum required beam width = 11.25” NG
# 2
5- 7 As = 3.01 in Minimum required beam width = 12.75” NG
# 2
Select 3 - 9 As = 3.00 in

10. Determine the final beam depth h; compute the actual effective depth d and
compare with the estimated depth.
h = 18.85 + 1.5 (cover) + 0.375 (No. 3 stirrup) + 1.128/2 = 21.29”
Use 22”

Compute the actual effective depth d.

d = 22.0 – 1.5 – 0.375 – 1.128/2 = 19.56” > 18.85” OK

The final d/b ratio is

d/b = 19.56/11 = 1.78 OK

11. Sketch the final design.

The design sketch for the beam section
is shown at the right.

4.12
Summary of Procedure for Rectangular Reinforced Concrete Beam Design for
Moment (Tension Reinforcement Only)
A. Cross section (b and h) are known: Find the required As.
1. Determine the factored design moment Mu (include the beam weight).
2. Based on the given h, estimate the effective depth d and calculate the
required coefficient of resistance Rn.
d = h – 1.5 (cover) – 0.375 (#3 stirrup) – 1.41/2 (half the diameter of #11 bar)
Calculate the required Rn assuming φ = 0.90, subject to a later check.
Determine required Rn = Mu/φ b d2
3. Determine the required steel ratio ρ corresponding with the required
coefficient of resistance Rn (calculated above) using Tables A.8 Expanded
through Table A.13+ Expanded, as appropriate; ensure that εt ≥ 0.005 and
φ = 0.90.
• If εt is within the range 0.004 ≤ εt ≤ 0.005, then φ will have to be reduced.
φ = 0.65 + (εt – 0.002)(250/3)
4. Compute the required steel area As and check (As)min.
Required As = ρ b d
Check (As)min using Table A.7.
5. Select the reinforcing bars using Tables A.4 and A.5.
• One layer is preferred.
Check the actual effective depth and compare with the estimated effective
depth (from Step 2).
• If the actual effective depth is slightly greater than the estimated
depth, the design is slightly conservative (on the safe side).
• If the actual depth is less than the estimated effective depth, the
design is not conservative and should be revised.
6. Sketch the design.

B. Design for cross section and required As.

1. Determine the factored design moment Mu (temporarily neglecting the
weight of the beam).
2. Select a steel ratio ρ (use Table A.8 Expanded through Table A.13+
Expanded for recommended values).
3. From Table A.8 Expanded through Table A.13+ Expanded find the Rn value
corresponding to the selected steel ratio ρ.

4.13
4. Establish a value for b and compute the required effective depth d.
Required d = (Mu/φ b Rn)1/2
Check the d/b ratio.
• If the d/b ratio is reasonable (1.5 to 2.2), use these values for the beam.
• If the d/b ratio is not reasonable, increase or decrease b and compute
the new required d.
5. Determine h (assuming 1.5” cover, #3 stirrups, #
11 reinforcing bars) and
compute the dead load due to the beam weight.
6. Revise the factored design Mu to include the additional moment due to the
beam weight.
7. Calculate the required coefficient of resistance Rn, using b and d previously
determined along with the new factored design Mu.
Required Rn = Mu/φ b d2
Find the steel ratio ρ corresponding with the required Rn.
8. Determine the required As and check (As)min.
Required As = ρbd
Check (As)min using Table A.7.
9. Select the steel reinforcing (ref. Table A.4 and A.5).
• Check to ensure that the bars fit into a beam width b in one layer
(preferable).
10. Compute the actual effective depth d and compare with the estimated
depth.
• If the actual effective depth d is greater than the design effective
depth (from Step 4), then the design is slightly conservative (on the safe
side).
Check the final d/b ratio (1.5 < d/b < 2.2).
11. Sketch the final design.

4.14
Example 4.3 – Rectangular Beam Design for Moment
Given: The rectangular reinforced concrete
beam section shown.
wLL = 0.8 kips/ft
Concentrated loads at mid-span:
PDL = 10 kips
PLL = 14 kips
fc’ = 5000 psi
fy = 60,000 psi

Find: Design the beam.

Solution

1. Determine the factored design moment Mu (temporarily neglecting the weight

of the beam).
wu = 1.2 wDL + 1.6 wLL = 1.2 (0) + 1.6(0.8) = 0 + 1.28 = 1.28 kips/ft
Pu = 1.2 PDL + 1.6 PLL = 1.2 (10) + 1.6(14) = 12.0 + 22.4 = 34.4 kips
Mu = wuL2/8 + PuL/4 = 1.28(28)2/8 + 34.4(28)/4
= 125.44 + 240.8 = 366.24 kip-ft

2. Select a steel ratio ρ.

Use the recommended value (ref. Supplementary Table S-4): ρ = 0.0150

3. From Supplementary Table S-4, find the Rn value corresponding to the selected
steel ratio ρ.
Based on ρ = 0.0150, select Rn = 0.8047.

4. Establish a value for b and compute the required effective depth d.

Find b by letting d/b = 2 (i.e. d = 2b).
φMn = Mu = φ b d2 Rn
Mu = 0.9 b (2b)2 Rn
366.24 (12”/’) = 0.9 b (2b)2(0.8047)
4,394.9 = 2.90 b3
b3 = 4,394.9/2.90 = 1515.5
b = 11.5” (Use b = 12”)

4.15
 Using b = 12”, calculate d.
Mu = φ b d2 Rn
366.24 (12”/’) = 0.9(12) d2 (0.8047)
4394.9 = 8.69 d2
d = (4394.9/8.69)1/2 = 22.49”
Check d/b: d/b = 22.49/12 = 1.87 OK

5. Determine h (assuming 1.5” cover, #3 stirrups, #

11 reinforcing bars) and
compute the dead load due to the beam weight.
h = 22.49 + 1.5 + 0.375 + 1.41/2 = 25.07” (Use 26”)

6. Revise the factored design Mu to include the additional moment due to the beam
weight.
Compute the dead load due to the weight of the beam.
wDL = (12/12)(26/12)150 lb/ft3
= 325.0 lb/ft (0.325 kips/ft)
The additional factored dead load: wu = 1.2 (0.325) = 0.390 kips/ft
The additional factored moment: Mu = (0.390)(28)2/8 = 38.22 kip-ft
Total factored moment Mu = 366.24 + 38.22 = 404.46 kip-ft

7. Calculate the required coefficient of resistance Rn, using b and d previously

determined along with the new factored design Mu.
Required Rn = Mu/φbd2 = 404.46(12)/0.9(12)(22.49)2 = 0.8885
The corresponding ρ = 0.0168 (ref. Table A.13+ Expanded)

8. Determine the required As and check (As)min using Table A.7.

As = 0.0168 (12)(22.49) = 4.53 in2
(As)min = 0.0035 bw d = 0.0035(12)(22.49) = 0.94 in2 < 4.53 in2 OK

9. Select the steel reinforcing (ref. Tables A.4 and A.5).

Using Table A.4 and Table A.5, possible selections include:
3 - #11 As = 4.68 in2 Minimum required beam width = 10.89” OK
4 - #10 As = 5.08 in2 Minimum required beam width = 12.87” NG
5 - #9 As = 5.00 in2 Minimum required beam width = 14.27” NG
Select 3 - #11 As = 4.68 in2

4.16
10. Compute the actual effective depth d and compare with the estimated depth.
d = 26 – 1.5 – 0.375 – 1.41/2 = 23.42” > 22.49” OK

The final d/b ratio is

d/b = 23.42/12 = 1.95 OK

11. Sketch the design.

The design sketch for the beam section is shown below.

4.17
4.4 Miscellaneous Beam Considerations
This section introduces three general limitations relating to beam design: lateral
bracing, crack control, and deep beams.

Lateral Support
It is not likely that laterally unbraced reinforced concrete beams of normal
proportions will buckle laterally, even if they are deep and narrow, unless subjected
to appreciable torsion.
• ACI 318-14 (Section 9.2.3.1a) states that spacing of lateral bracing for a beam
shall not exceed 50 times the least width of the compression flange or face.
• If considerable torsion is present, then such torsion must be considered in
determining the maximum spacing for lateral support.

Crack Control
With the use of higher strength reinforcing steels (where more strain is required
to produce the higher stresses), cracking of reinforced concrete flexural members
has become more of a problem.

It would seem that cracking would have an effect on the corrosion of reinforcing
steel.
• However, there is no correlation between corrosion and surface crack widths
that are typical for structures with reinforcement stresses at service load
levels.
• Further, there is no clear experimental evidence available regarding the crack
width beyond which a corrosion danger exists.
• Exposure tests indicate that concrete quality, proper consolidation, and
adequate concrete cover may be more important in corrosion considerations
than is crack width.

For reasons of durability and appearance, many fine cracks are preferable to a few
wide cracks.
• To achieve this, the current ACI 318-14 (Section 24.3) directs that flexural
tension reinforcement must be well distributed in the maximum tension zones
of a member.
• ACI 318-14 (Table 24.3.2) contains a provision for the maximum spacing “s” that
is intended to control surface cracks to a width that is generally acceptable in
practice.
• The maximum spacing for deformed bars is limited to

4.18
 s = 15(40,000/fs) – 2.5 cc ≤ 12(40,000/fs)
where
s = center-to-center spacing of the flexural tension reinforcement nearest
to the tension face (inch)
fs = calculated stress (psi) in deformed reinforcement closest to the tension
face at service loads; this may be taken as 2/3 of the specified yield
strength.
cc = clear cover from the nearest surface in tension to the surface of the
flexural tension reinforcement (inch)

ACI 318-14 (Section 24.3.5) cautions that if a structure is designed to be

watertight, or if it is to be exposed to corrosive environments, then the provisions
of Section 24.3 are not sufficient.
• Special investigations and precautions specific to those conditions are required.

4.19
Example 4.4 – Crack Control
Given: The beam section shown.
fy = 60,000 psi

Find: Check the steel distribution to determine

if reasonable control of flexural cracking is
accomplished in accordance with ACI 318-14
(Section 24.3).

Solution

1. Calculate the center-to-center spacing between the #9 bars.

s = (1/3)[15 – 2(1.5 + 0.375 + 1.128/2)] = 3.37”

2. Assume positive moment and calculate the concrete clear cover from the
bottom (tension) face of the beam to the surface of the nearest tension
reinforcement.
cc = 1.50 + 0.375 = 1.875”

3. Calculate fs using 2/3 of fy.

fs = (2/3)(60,000) = 40,000 psi

4. Calculate the maximum spacing allowed using ACI 318-14 (Table 24.3.2).
s = 15(40,000/fs) – 2.5 cc
= 15(40,000/40,000) – 2.5(1.875) = 10.31”
Check the upper limit.
12(40,000/fs) = 12(40,000/40,000) = 12” > 10.31”
The maximum spacing = 10.31”
The actual spacing of 3.37” < 10.31”

Therefore, the steel distribution meets the requirements of ACI 318-14 (Section
24.3) to provide reasonable control of flexural cracking.

4.20
Example 4.5 – Crack Control
Given: The beam section shown.
fy = 60,000 psi

Find: Check the steel distribution to determine

if reasonable control of flexural cracking is
accomplished in accordance with ACI 318-14
(Section 24.3).

Solution

1. Calculate the center-to-center spacing between the #10 bars.

s = (1/3)[15 – 2(1.5 + 0.375 + 1.27/2)] = 3.33”

2. Assume positive moment and calculate the concrete clear cover from the
bottom (tension) face of the beam to the surface of the nearest tension
reinforcement.
cc = 1.50 + 0.375 = 1.875”

3. Calculate fs using 2/3 of fy.

fs = (2/3)(60,000) = 40,000 psi

4. Calculate the maximum spacing allowed using ACI 318-14 (Table 24.3.2).
s = 15(40,000/fs) – 2.5 cc
= 15(40,000/40,000) – 2.5(1.875) = 10.31”
Check the upper limit.
12(40,000/fs) = 12(40,000/40,000) = 12” > 10.31”
The maximum spacing = 10.31”
The actual spacing of 3.33” < 10.31”

Therefore, the steel distribution meets the requirements of ACI 318-14 (Section
24.3) to provide reasonable control of flexural cracking.

4.21
Skin Reinforcement for Deep Beams
When beams are relatively deep, there exists the possibility for surface cracking
in the tension zone areas away from the main reinforcing.
• ACI Code 318-14 (Section 9.7.2.3)
requires that beams with depths in
excess of 36” have longitudinal “skin”
reinforcing that is uniformly distributed
along both side faces of the member for
a distance of h/2 from the tension face
of the beam.
• The spacing “s” between these longitudinal
bars or wires shall not exceed the spacing
provided in ACI 318-14, Section 24.3 (Table
24.3.2).
• Bar sizes ranging from #3 to #5 (or welded wire reinforcement with a minimum
area of 0.1 in2 per foot of depth) are typically used.

4.22
Example 4.6 – Crack Control
Given: Beam section shown.
fy = 60,000 psi

Find: Design the skin reinforcement.

Solution

Because h > 36”, skin reinforcement is required.

• The skin reinforcing must cover the tension zone for a minimum of h/2
(41”/2 = 20.5”) up from the tension face of the beam and along both sides of
the member.

Assume #3 bars (Ab = 0.11 in2) for skin reinforcing and calculate the maximum
spacing “s” as follows.
cc = 1.50 + 0.375 = 1.875”
fs = (2/3)fy = (2/3)(60,000) = 40,000 psi
s = 15(40,000/fs) – 2.5 cc = 15(40,000/40,000) – 2.5 (1.875)
= 10.31”

The distance from the tension face of the beam to the centroid of the tension
reinforcement is
1.50 + 0.375 + 1.128/2 = 2.44”
Therefore, the required number of spaces N is
N = (20.5 – 2.44)/10.31 = 1.75 spaces (Use 2 spaces)

The actual spacing provided is

(20.5 – 2.44)/2 = 9.03” ≈ 9” < 10.31” OK

Table A.6: As (#3 @ 9”) = 0.15 in2/ft

> 0.10 in2/ft OK
The design sketch is shown at the
right.

4.23
 Further Notes on Beam Sizes
For economy and appearance, only a few different sizes of beams should be used in
a particular floor system.
• Such practice saves by simplifying formwork and providing a floor system with a
uniform and attractive appearance.

4.5 Determining Steel Area When Beam Dimensions Are Predetermined

Sometimes the external dimensions of a beam are predetermined by factors other
than moments and shears.
• The depth of a member may have been selected on the basis of the minimum
depth required to meet deflection requirements.
• The size of the group of beams may have been selected to simplify formwork.
• A specific size may have been selected for architectural reasons.

Design tables (such as Tables A.8 through A.13) provide the quickest and most
practical method for analysis and design.

4.6 Bundled Bars

ACI 318-14 (Section 25.6.1) prescribes the requirements for bundled non-
prestressed reinforcement.
• Groups of parallel reinforcing bars bundled in contact to act as a unit shall be
limited to four in any one bundle (Section 25.6.1.1).
• Bundled bars must be enclosed by stirrups or ties (Section 25.6.1.2).
• Bars larger than #11 shall not be bundled in beams (Section 25.6.1.3).

When bundles are used, the ACI 318-14 (Section 25.6.1.5) requires that the
calculated development lengths be made for individual bars within a bundle (either
in tension or compression) and then increased by the following amounts.
• By 20% for three-bar bundles and
• By 33% for four-bar bundles.

For determining the appropriate factors, a unit of bundled bars is treated as a

single bar of a diameter derived from the equivalent total area.

Additional criteria for bundled non-prestressed reinforcement are furnished in

the ACI 318-14 (Section 25.6.1).

4.24
4.7 One-Way Slabs
Slabs constitute a specialized category of bending members that can be broadly
classified as one-way and two-way slabs.

The most basic and common type of slab is the one-way slab.
• A one-way slab is a reinforced concrete slab supported on two opposite sides so
that bending occurs in one direction only (i.e. perpendicular to the supported
edges).
• In the analysis or design of a one-way slab, the slab is assumed to be a series of
rectangular beams placed side-by-side and each 12” wide.
• If the ratio of lengths of the two perpendicular sides is no less than 2, the slab
may be treated as a one-way slab with bending primarily occurring in the short
direction.

A slab supported on all four edges is a two-way slab with bending occurring in two
directions perpendicular to each other.
• The structural bay for a two-way system must be configured roughly 1.5:1 for
the system to transfer load effectively in both directions.

In the analysis or design of a one-way slab, the slab is assumed to be a rectangular

beam with a width b = 12”.
• When loaded, the beam has
bending in one direction only.
• The slab is analyzed and designed
as though it were composed of 12”
wide segments placed side by side
with a total depth equal to the slab
thickness.

In a one-way slab, the main reinforcement is placed perpendicular to the supports.

• Because analysis and design is done for a typical 12” wide segment, it is
necessary to specify the amount of steel in that segment.
• Reinforcing steel in slabs in normally specified by bar size and center-to-center
spacing.
• The amount of steel considered in the 12” wide typical segment is an average
amount.
• Table A.6 is provided to aid in the design and analysis of one-way slabs.

4.25
Further requirements of the ACI 318-14 related to concrete slabs include the
following.
• Reinforcement for shrinkage and temperature perpendicular to the principal
reinforcement must be provided in structural floor and roof slabs where the
principal reinforcement extends in one direction only (Section 7.7.6).
• In structural slabs of uniform thickness, the minimum area for shrinkage and
temperature steel is as follows (Table 24.4.3.2).
For deformed bars less than fy < 60,000 psi
As = 0.0020 b h
For deformed bars less than fy ≥ 60,000 psi, the greater of
As = 0.0018 (60,000/fy) b h
As = 0.0014 b h
where
b = width of the member (12” for slabs)
h = total slab thickness
• In structural non-prestressed slabs of uniform thickness, the minimum amount
of reinforcement in the direction of the span (principal reinforcement) must
not be less than that required for shrinkage and temperature reinforcement
(Table 7.6.1.1).
• Principal reinforcement shall not be spaced farther apart than three times the
slab thickness nor more than 18 inches (Section 7.7.2.3).
• Shrinkage and temperature reinforcement shall not be spaced farther apart
than five times the slab thickness nor more than 18 inches (Section 24.4.3.3).
• Slabs are usually designed without shear reinforcement (i.e. stirrups); the
concrete alone must be adequate in shear.

The required thickness of a one-way slab may depend on the bending, deflection, or
shear strength requirements.
• ACI 318-14 imposes span/depth criteria to prevent excessive deflection.
• Table 7.3.1.1 of the ACI 318-14 (shown below) establishes minimum thicknesses
for beams and one-way slabs in terms of fractions of the span length.
Minimum thickness, h
Simply One end Both ends
Cantilever
supported continuous continuous
Solid non-prestressed
ℓ/20 ℓ/24 ℓ/28 ℓ/10
one-way slabs
ℓ = the span length of the slab

4.26
 - No calculation for deflection is required if the criterion of Table 7.3.1.1 is
satisfied for non-prestressed slabs not supporting or attached to partitions
or other construction likely to be damaged by large deflections.
- For preliminary calculations for simply supported or continuous slabs, the
thickness can be taken as ½” per foot of span (which conforms to ACI 318-14
requirement for “one end continuous,” i.e. ℓ/24).
• If the member supports construction, or is attached to construction, that may
be damaged by large deflections, then deflections must be calculated.
- If the thickness of the slab is less than the thickness specified by the ACI
318-14 criterion (i.e. Table 7.3.1.1), then deflections must be computed.
◦ The lesser slab thickness may be used if the deflection is satisfactory in
accordance with Section 7.3.2.
• Since the values in Table 7.3.1.1 are for use with non-prestressed reinforced
concrete members made with normal weight concrete and Grade 60
reinforcement, if a different concrete weight or grade of reinforcement is
used, then the values in Table 7.3.1.1 must be modified in accordance with
Section 7.3.1.1.1 through 7.3.1.1.3, as appropriate.
- For fy other than 60,000 psi, the values in Table 7.3.1.1 must be multiplied
by a factor equal to (0.4 + fy/100,000).

4.27
Example 4.7 – One-Way Slab Analysis
Given: A one-way structural interior slab
with the cross section shown.
fc’ = 3000 psi
fy = 40,000 psi

Find: φMn and the service live load (psf) that

the slab can support.

Solution

Determine the area of steel (ref. Table A.6).

#
5 bars @ 7” c/c: As = 0.53 in2

Determine the effective depth.

d = 6.5 – 0.75 (cover) – 0.625/2 = 5.44”

Compute the steel ratio and check minimum steel.

ρ = As/bd = 0.53/12(5.44) = 0.0081
(As)min = 0.0020 bh = 0.0020(12)(6.5) = 0.156 in2 < 0.53 in2 OK

Calculate φMn using the coefficient of resistance.

From Table A.8 Expanded, for ρ = 0.0081, Rn = 0.3034.
εt is not tabulated, so εt > 0.005; the section is tension-controlled, and φ = 0.90.

φMn = φ b d2 Rn = 0.9(12)(5.44)2(0.3034) = 97.0 kip-inch

= 8.08 kip-ft (per foot of slab width)

Calculate φMn using the internal couple method (for comparison).

a = Asfy/0.85fc’ b = 0.53(40.0)/0.85(3.0)(12) = 0.693”
Z = d – a/2 = 5.44 – 0.693/2 = 5.094”
Based on the steel (i.e. Mn = As fy Z):
φMn = φ As fy Z = 0.9(0.53)(40.0)(5.094) = 97.2 kip-inch
= 8.10 kip-ft (per foot of slab width)

4.28
Determine the service load.
The factored bending moment Mu and service load wu are determined as follows.
φMn = Mu = wuℓ2/8
wu = 8Mu/ℓ2 = 8(8.10)/(12)2 = 0.450 kip/ft

The slab weight is

wDL = (6.5/12”/’)(12/12”/’)(150 lb/ft3) = 81.25 lb/ft (0.0813 kip/ft)

The total factored load is

wu = 1.2 wDL + 1.6 wLL
0.450 = 1.2 (0.0813) + 1.6 wLL
0.450 = 0.097 + 1.6 wLL
1.6 wLL = 0.450 – 0.097 = 0.353
wLL = 0.353/1.6 = 0.221 kip/ft

Since the segment is 12” wide, the service live load that the slab can support is
0.221 kips/ft2 (221 psf).

4.29
Example 4.8 – One-Way Slab Analysis
Given: A one-way structural interior slab
with the cross section shown.
fc’ = 3000 psi
fy = 40,000 psi

Find: φMn and the service live load (psf) that

the slab can support.

Solution

Determine the area of steel (ref. Table A.6).

#
8 @ bars 6” c/c: As = 1.57 in2

Determine the effective depth.

d = 8.0 – 0.75 (cover) – 1.0/2 = 6.75”

Compute the steel ratio and check minimum steel.

ρ = As/bd = 1.57/12(6.75) = 0.0194
(As)min = 0.0020 bh = 0.0020(12)(8.0) = 0.192 in2 < 1.57 in2 OK

Calculate φMn using the coefficient of resistance.

From Table A.8 Expanded, for ρ = 0.0194, Rn = 0.6579.
εt is not tabulated, so εt > 0.005; the section is tension-controlled, and φ = 0.90.

φMn = φ b d2 Rn = 0.9(12)(6.75)2(0.6579) = 323.7 kip-inch

= 27.0 kip-ft (per foot of slab width)

Calculate a, Z, and Mn using the internal couple method (for comparison).

a = Asfy/0.85fc’ b = 1.57(40.0)/0.85(3.0)(12) = 2.052”
Z = d – a/2 = 6.75 – 2.052/2 = 5.724”
Based on the steel (i.e. Mn = As fy Z):
φMn = φ Asfy Z = 0.9(1.57)(40.0)(5.724) = 323.5 kip-inch
= 27.0 kip-ft (per foot of slab width)

4.30
Determine the service load.
The factored bending moment Mu and service load wu are determined as follows.
φMn = Mu = wuℓ2/8
wu = 8Mu/ℓ2 = 8(27.0)/(12)2 = 1.500 kip/ft

The slab weight is

wDL = (8.0/12”/’)(12/12”/’)(150 lb/ft3) = 100.0 lb/ft (0.100 kip/ft)

The total factored load is

wu = 1.2 wDL + 1.6 wLL
1.500 = 1.2 (0.100) + 1.6 wLL
1.500 = 0.120 + 1.6 wLL
1.6 wLL = 1.500 – 0.120 = 1.380
wLL = 1.380/1.6 = 0.863 kip/ft

Since the segment is 12” wide, the service live load that the slab can support is
0.863 kips/ft2 (863 psf).

4.31
Design of One-Way Slabs for Moment (Tension Reinforcement Only)
The sizes of reinforced concrete members have decreased as higher strength
steel and concrete have become available for use in such members.
• Deflections of members are affected very little by material strength.
• Deflections are affected greatly by the size of the cross section and its
related moment of inertia.
• Deflections are greater for a member of high-strength materials than are the
deflections for the same member fabricated from lower strength materials.
- The member with high-strength materials has a smaller cross sectional area.

To limit adverse deflections, the ACI 318-14 specifies minimum slab thicknesses.
• A slab that meets the minimum thickness requirement must still be designed for
flexure.
• Deflections for slabs meeting the ACI 318-14 minimum thickness do not need to
be calculated or checked unless the slab supports or is attached to construction
likely to be damaged by large deflections.

The ACI 318-14 (Section 2.2) specifies the span length that is to be used in the
analysis and design of flexural members.
• The design span length recommended by the ACI 318-14 (Section 2.2) for
beams and slabs not integral with supports is the distance between supports.
• In the analysis of frames or continuous construction for the determination of
moments, span length shall be taken as the distance center-to-center of
supports (Section 2.2).
• For one-way slabs and beams built integrally with supports, design on the basis
of moments at faces of support shall be permitted (Section 7.4.2.1 and Section
9.4.2.1, respectively).

4.32
Example 4.9 – Design of One-Way Slabs
Given: Simple-span one-way slab.
LL = 400 psf
fc’ = 4000 psi
fy = 60,000 psi

Find: Design the slab.

Solution

1. Determine the required minimum h and use this to estimate the slab dead
weight.
From ACI Table 7.3.1.1, for a simply-supported, one-way slab:
Minimum h = ℓ/20 = 10(12”/’)/20 = 6”
Try h = 6” and design a 12” wide segment.

2. Determine the dead load due to the weight of the slab.

Slab weight = (6/12)(12/12)150 lb/ft3 = 75 lb/ft (0.075 kip/ft)
The total design load is
wu = 1.2 wDL + 1.6 wLL
= 1.2 (0.075) + 1.6 (0.400) = 0.09 + 0.64 = 0.73 kip/ft

3. Determine the design moment.

Mu = wuL2/8 = 0.730(10)2/8 = 9.125 kip-ft

4. Establish the approximate depth d.

Assume #6 bars and minimum concrete cover on the bars of ¾ inch.
d = 6 – 0.75 – 0.75/2 = 4.875”

5. Determine the required Rn assuming φ = 0.90.

Required Rn = Mu/φ b d2 = 9.125 (12”/’)/0.9(12)(4.875)2 = 0.4266

6. From Table A.13 Expanded, for a required Rn = 0.4306, ρ = 0.0077

εt is not tabulated, εt > 0.005; this is a tension-controlled section, and φ = 0.90.

7. Determine the required steel area.

As = ρ b d = 0.0077(12)(4.875) = 0.45 in2 (for each 12” of slab)

4.33
8. Select the main steel (from Table A.6).
Maximum spacing (ACI 318-14, Section 7.7.2.3) = 3h or 18”
3h = 3(6) = 18” (Use 18” maximum spacing)
Minimum spacing in slabs: 4” (practical)
Using Table A.6, possible selections include the following.
#
4 @ 5” As = 0.47 in2
#
5 @ 8” As = 0.46 in2
#
6 @ 11” As = 0.48 in2
Select #5 @ 8” As = 0.46 in2 (Allows bar cut-offs)
The assumption on bar size was satisfactory (the actual d > assumed d since the
selected bar size is smaller than assumed.)

9. Select shrinkage and temperature reinforcement.

Maximum spacing (ACI 318-14, Section 24.4.3.3) = 5h or 18”
5h = 5(6) = 30” > 18” (Use 18” maximum spacing)
Required As (ACI 318-14, Table 24.4.3.2) = 0.0018bh
Required As = 0.0018(12)(6) = 0.13 in2 (for each 12” of slab)
Using Table A.6, possible selections include the following.
#
3 @ 10” As = 0.13 in2
#
4 @ 18” As = 0.13 in2
Select #3 @ 10” As = 0.13 in2

10. The main steel must exceed the area required for shrinkage and temperature
steel (ACI 318-14, Table 7.6.1.1).
For #5 @ 8”, the steel area is 0.46 in2 > 0.13 in2 OK

11. Sketch the final design.

A final design sketch is shown below.

4.34
Summary of Procedure for Design of One-Way Slabs for Moment (to satisfy ACI
minimum h)
1. Compute the minimum h based on the ACI Code, Table 7.3.1.1.
The slab thickness can be rounded up:
• To the next higher ¼ inch for slabs up to 6 inches thick, and
• To the next higher ½ inch for slabs thicker than 6 inches.

2. Compute the slab weight and compute wu (total design load).

3. Compute the design moment Mu.

4. Estimate an effective depth d (assuming #6 bars and ¾ inch cover).

d = h – 0.75 – 0.75/2 = h – 1.12”

5. Calculate the required Rn assuming φ = 0.90.

Required Rn = Mu/φ b d2

6. From Tables A.8 through A.13, find the required steel ratio ρ.
• Check εt to verify the φ assumption.
- If εt < 0.005, the slab must be made thicker.

7. Compute the required steel area As.

Required As = ρbd

8. Select the main steel (from Table A.6).

• Check the maximum spacing of 3h or 18”.
• Check the assumption of Step 4 (i.e. the use of #6 bars).

9. Select shrinkage and temperature steel (per ACI 318-14).

For fy < 60,000 psi Required As = 0.0020bh
For fy ≥ 60,000 psi Required As = 0.0018(60,000/fy)bh, or
Required As = 0.0014 bh (Use the larger value.)

10. The main steel area cannot be less than the area of steel required for
shrinkage and temperature.

11. Sketch the design.

4.35
Example 4.10 – Design of One-Way Slabs
Given: Simple-span one-way slab.
LL = 300 psf
fc’ = 3000 psi
fy = 60,000 psi

Find: Design the slab.

Solution

1. Determine the required minimum h and use this to estimate the slab dead
weight.
From ACI Table 7.3.1.1, for a simply-supported, solid, one-way slab:
Minimum h = ℓ/20 = 8(12”/’)/20 = 4.8”
Try h = 5” and design a 12” wide segment.

2. Determine the dead load due to the weight of the slab.

Slab weight = (5/12)(12/12)150 lb/ft3 = 62.5 lb/ft (0.0625 kip/ft)
The total design load is
wu = 1.2 wDL + 1.6 wLL
= 1.2 (0.0625) + 1.6 (0.300) = 0.075 + 0.480 = 0.555 kip/ft

3. Determine the design moment.

Mu = wuL2/8 = 0.555(8)2/8 = 4.44 kip-ft

4. Establish the approximate depth d.

Assume #6 bars and minimum concrete cover on the bars of ¾ inch.
d = 5 – 0.75 – 0.75/2 = 3.875”

5. Determine the required Rn assuming φ= 0.90.

Required Rn = Mu/φ b d2 = 4.44(12”/’)/0.9(12)(3.875)2 = 0.3285

6. From Table A.12 Expanded, for a required Rn = 0.3294, ρ = 0.0059

εt is not tabulated, εt > 0.005; this is a tension-controlled section, and φ = 0.90.

7. Determine the required steel area.

As = ρ b d = 0.0059(12)(3.875) = 0.27 in2 (for each 12” of slab)

4.36
8. Select the main steel (from Table A.6).
Maximum spacing (ACI Code, Section 7.7.2.3) = 3h or 18”
3h = 3(5) = 15” < 18” (Use 15” maximum spacing)
Minimum spacing in slabs: 4” (practical)
Using Table A.6, possible selections include the following.
#
3 @ 5” As = 0.27 in2
#
4 @ 8” As = 0.29 in2
#
5 @ 13” As = 0.28 in2
#
6 @ 18” As = 0.29 in2
Select #5 @ 13” As = 0.27 in2
or Select #4 @ 7½” As = 0.31 in2 (Allows bar cut-offs)
The assumption on bar size was satisfactory (the actual d > assumed d since the
selected bar size is smaller than assumed.)

9. Select shrinkage and temperature reinforcement (ACI Code, Section 7.12).

Maximum spacing (ACI 318-14, Section 24.4.3.3) = 5h or 18”
5h = 5(5) = 25” > 18” (Use 18” maximum spacing)
Required As (ACI 318-14, Table 24.4.3.2) = 0.0018bh
= 0.0018(12)(5) = 0.11 in2 (for each 12” of slab)
Using Table A.6, possible selections include the following.
#
3 @ 12” As = 0.11 in2
#
4 @ 18” As = 0.13 in2
Select #3 @ 12” As = 0.11 in2

10. The main steel must exceed the area required for shrinkage and temperature
steel (ACI 318-14, Table 7.6.1.1).
For #4 @ 7½”, the steel area is 0.31 in2 > 0.11 in2 OK

11. Sketch the final design.

A final design sketch is shown below.

4.37
4.8 Cantilever Beams and Continuous Beams
Cantilever beams supporting gravity loads are subject to negative moments
throughout their lengths.
• Tensile reinforcement is placed in the top (tensile) side.

Maximum moments occur at the face of the fixed supports.

• The maximum amount of reinforcing steel is required at the face of the
support.
• Bars cannot be stopped at the support faces but must be extended or anchored
into the concrete beyond the support face to provide adequate development
length.
• Such development length (presented in Chapter 7) may be provided by the
required length of straight bars extended beyond the support or by bars
furnished with 90° or 180° hooks.

4.9 SI Example
This section has been omitted.

4.10 Computer Example

This section has been omitted.

4.38