UNIT-3 Notes

Design of RC Structural Elements (B18CE5010)
UNIT-3
LIMIT STATE DESIGN OF SLABS AND STAIRS
The most common type of structural element used to cover floors and roofs are slabs in which the
thickness is considerably smaller than their lateral dimension.
They are frequently used in buildings, top and bottom of tanks, decks in bridge structures, raft
foundations and staircase slabs. Slabs support and transmit loads to the walls or beams supporting
them. In multistoried buildings, the floor slabs act as deep horizontal girders and their action as rigid
diaphragms of great stiffness is important in restricting the lateral deformation of multistoried frames
by resisting lateral wind and earthquake loads. The maximum volume of concrete that goes into a
structure is in the form of floor, roof slabs and footings. Due to this, the slightest reduction in the design
depth of slabs will lead to considerable economy.
Slabs may have different shapes and support conditions. They can be solid, ribbed and waffle types.
They can be supported on all the sides, only on opposite sides or on columns. They are classified
depending upon the distribution of loads to the edges. A slab is generally designed as a flexural element
considering strip of one meter width. As slabs are thin compared to the beams, the serviceability limit
state is normally critical in slabs rather than the ultimate strength or collapse limit states of flexure and
shear. Slabs have a large surface area compared to their volume and hence they are more affected by
shrinkage and temperature stresses. These secondary stresses can be resisted by the use of distribution
reinforcement. Normally shear stresses are not critical in slabs and hence shear reinforcements are not
generally necessary.
Behavior of one way and two way slabs:
SLAB:
Slabs are constructed to provide flat surfaces, usually horizontal, in building floors, roofs, bridges, and
other types of structures. The slab may be supported by walls, by reinforced concrete beams usually
cast monolithically with the slab, by structural steel beams, by columns, or by the ground.
Slabs are classified into two types:
1. One Way Slab

2. Two Way Slab
One Way Slab:
One way slab is a slab which is supported by beams on the two opposite sides to carry the load along
one direction. The ratio of longer span (l) to shorter span (b) is equal or greater than 2, considered as
one way slab because this slab will bend in one direction i.e in the direction along its shorter span
School of Civil Engineering, REVA University Page 1

Due to the huge difference in lengths, the load is not transferred to the shorter beams. Main
reinforcement is provided in shorter span and distribution reinforcement in a longer span.
Example: Generally all the Cantilever slabs are one Way slab. Chajja’s and verandahs are a practical
example of one way slab.
Two Way Slab:
Two way slabs is a slab supported by beams on all the four sides and the loads are carried by the
supports along with both directions, it is known as two way slab. In two way slab, the ratio of longer
span (l) to shorter span (b) is less than 2.
the load will be carried in both the directions. So, the main reinforcement is provided in both directions
for two way slabs.
Example: These types of slabs are used in constructing floors of a multi-storeyed building.

Difference between One Way Slab and Two way slab:

One Way Slab Two Way Slab
 Slabs are supported by the beams on the two
 Slabs are supported by beams on all the four sides.
opposite sides
 Main reinforcement is provided on shorter  Main reinforcement is provided in both sides due
span due to bending to bending occurs on both sides
 Main Reinforcement is provided in only  Main Reinforcement is provided along both the
direction for one way slabs directions in two way slabs.
 Loads are carried along one direction in one  Loads are carried along both the directions in two
way slab. way slabs.
LOADING ON SLABS
Loading on slabs may be in the form of uniformly distributed loads or concentrated loads or
combination of the two. The slab in residential or public building or other similar structures are mostly
subjected to uniformly distributed loads only. Slabs in bridges, culverts, or in other similar situations
are subjected to the concentrated load on account of vehicles or trains passing over the slab. Thus, the
loading on a slab normally consists of:
(a) Live loads.
(b) External dead load. (Finishing and Partitions etc.).
(c) Dead load of the slab itself.

Live loads and external dead loads may be given or these may be calculated with the help of given data,
while the dead load due to self-weight of the slab has to be calculated after deciding the probable
thickness of the slab vide Basic-Rule.
Fig: various types of RC slabs
DESIGN OF ONE-WAY SLABS
1. Design Parameters
Reinforced concrete slabs supported on two opposite sides or on all four sides with the ratio of long to
short span exceeding 2 are referred to as one-way slabs. The slabs are designed as beams of unit width
for a given type of loading and support conditions. The span/ depth ratios specified in 15:456-2000
code for beam is also applicable for slabs.
The percentage of reinforcement in slabs is generally low in the range of 0.3% to 0.5%. Hence the use
of modification factor (Kt) for tension reinforcement results in the span/ depth ratio in the range of 25
to 30 for one-way slabs. The thickness of the slab should be such that the shear force at supports is
resisted by concrete alone without recourse to shear reinforcements. The permissible shear stress is
increased by the use of shear enhancement factor (k) specified in Clause 40.2.1.1, 15:456-2000 code.

Due to practical considerations, the depth of slab selected is generally greater than the minimum depth
required for balanced section and hence the slab is under reinforced. Consequently the reinforcements
in the slab can be computed by using equations specified in Annexure G of the code or by using Charts
or Tables of SP: 16. The slab designed for flexure is checked for shear stresses and limit state of
deflection.
Design Example
1. Design a one-way slab with a clear span of 3.5 m, simply supported on 200 mm thick concrete
masonry walls to support a live load of 4 kN/ m2. Adopt M20 grade concrete and Fe 415 HYSD bars.
Data:
Clear span = 3.5 m
Width of supports = 200 mm
Live load = 4 kN/ m2
Floor finish = 1 kN/m2
fck = 20 N/mm2 fy = 415 N/mm2
Depth of slab:
Assume depth d = (span/25) = (3500/25) = 140
Assuming a clear cover of 20 mm and using 10 mm diameter bars, we have:
Effective depth d = 140 mm
Overall depth D = 165 mm
Effective span:
The least value of
a. Clear span+ effective depth = (3.5 + 0.14) = 3.64 m
b. Centre to centre of supports = (3.5 + 0.20) = 3.70 m
Hence L = 3.64 m.
Loads:
Self-weight of slab = (0.165 x 25) = 4.125 kN/m
Floor finish = 1.000
Live load = 4.000
Total service load w = 9.125 kN/m
Ultimate load Wu = (1.5 x 9.125) = 13.69 kN/m
Ultimate moments and shear forces:
Mu = (0.125 Wu L 2) = (0.125 X 13.69 X 3.642) = 22.67 kN·m
Vu = (0.5 Wu L) = (0.5 X 13.69 X 3.64) = 24.92 kN
Limiting moment of resistance:
Mu,lim = 0.138fckbd 2
= (0.138 X 20 X 103 X 1402) X 10-6
54kN·m
Since Mu < Mu,!im, section is under-reinforced.

Main reinforcements:
𝐴𝑠𝑡 𝑓𝑦
𝑀𝑢 = (0.87𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑠𝑡 𝑑 [1 − ( )]
𝑏𝑑𝑓𝑐𝑘
𝐴 415
(22.67 𝑋 106 ) = (0.87 ∗ 415𝐴𝑠𝑡 ∗ 140) [1 − (103 𝑠𝑡∗140∗20)]
Solving, Ast= 524mm2
Using 10mm diameter bars, the spacing

100𝑎𝑠𝑡 100∗78.5
𝑆𝑣 = ( )=( ) =150mm
𝐴𝑠𝑡 524
Adopt a spacing of 150 mm and alternate bars are bent up at supports.
Distribution reinforcement:
Ast = 0.12% of gross cross-sectional area
= (0.0012 x 103 x 165) = 198 mm2
Provide 8 mm diameter bars at 250 mm centres (Ast = 201 mm2)
Check for shear stress:
𝑉 (24.92 X 103 )
𝜏𝑣 = ( 𝑢 )= = 0.178 N/mm2
𝑏𝑑 (103 X 140)
100𝐴𝑠𝑡 100 X 0.5 X 524

𝑃𝑡 = ( )= ( ) = 0.187
𝑏𝑑 103 X 140
Permissible shear stress in slab (Table 19, IS : 456)
k𝜏𝑐 = (1.27 x 0.28) = 0.30 N/mm2 > 𝜏𝑣
Hence, the shear stresses are within safe permissible limits.
Check for deflection control:
L L
( ) =( ) ∗ 𝐾𝑡 ∗ 𝐾𝑐 ∗ 𝐾𝑓
d max d basic
100 x 524
Pt = ( 3 ) = 0.37
10 x 140
Refer to Fig. 8.1, Kt = 1.40,
Fig. 8.2, Kc = 1.00, and
Fig. 8.3, Kt = 1.00

L
(d) = [20 ∗ 1.4 ∗ 1.0 ∗ 1.0] = 28
max
L 3600
( ) = ( ) = 26 < 28
d actual 140
Hence, the limit state of deflection is satisfied.
Design of reinforcement using SP-16 design tables:
𝑀𝑢 22.6 ∗ 106
( 2) = ( 3 ) = 115
𝑏𝑑 10 ∗ 1402
Refer to Table 2, SP-16 and readout the percentage of steel corresponding to Fe 415 N/mm2 and fck =
20 N/mm2.
Pt = 0.343%
Hence
Pt ∗ bd
Ast = ( )
100
(0.343 X 103 X 140)
= 480𝑚𝑚2
(100)
Reinforcement details
The reinforcement details in the slab are shown in below Fig.
Fig: Details of reinforcements in one-way slab

DESIGN OF TWO-WAY SLABS
Simply Supported Slabs
In case of simply supported slabs with free edges, loading on the slab results in sagging of the slab
toward the centre of span and lifting of the slab at comers due to non uniform variation of load
transmitted to the supports. Hence simply supported slabs which do not have adequate provision to
resist torsion at comers and to prevent the corners from lifting, the design maximum moments per unit
width can be computed as specified in IS:456-2000 using the relation:
𝑴𝒙 =∝𝒚 𝒘𝒍𝟐𝒙
𝑴𝒚 =∝𝒚 𝒘𝒍𝟐𝒙
where, Mx and My are the design moments in the x and y directions
w = uniformly distributed service load on the slab
Lx and Ly are the short and long spans
∝𝑥 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ∝𝑦 Are the moment coefficients shown in Table 10.1 (Table 27, IS:456-2000).
The following assumptions are made in the division of slab into strips and provision of
reinforcement:
1) The positive moment of reinforcement is uniformly distributed over the middle strip extending
over 75% of the span as shown in Fig. 10.3.
2) Edge strips comprise a width equal to (Lx /8) and (Ly /8).
3) Minimum reinforcement as specified in IS code for slabs should be provided in edge strips.
4) At the corners of simply supported slabs, torsion reinforcement comprising75% of the area
required for maximum mid-span moment in the slab is provided in each of the four layers in the
form of a mesh extending to a length of one-fifth of the shorter span.
Span/Depth Ratio in Two-Way Slabs
In case of two-way slabs, due to flexural bending in mutually perpendicular directions, the magnitude
of moments will be smaller than in one-way slabs resulting in smaller percentages of reinforcement.
Due to this modification factor Kt is higher resulting in the increase of span/ depth ratio based on
practical knowledge, the following span/overall depth ratios have been recommended in the IS:456
code, Clause 24.1 for two-way slabs with shorter span up to 3.5 m using Fe 415 HYSD bars and for
loading class up to 3 kN/m2.
1. Simply supported slabs = 28
2. Continuous slabs = 32

Deflection and Crack Control
In two-way slabs, the deflections will be smaller than in one-way slabs due to flexural rigidity of the
slab in mutually perpendicular directions. The deflection in two-way slabs is influenced by span/ depth
ratio and for computations of modification factors, the shorter span and the percentage of steel in that
direction should be considered. If empirical rules regarding the detailing of reinforcements specified in
the IS:456 code, Clause 26 is followed, crack control will be achieved and only in special structures
where abnormal loads are applied, actual computation of crack width will be necessary as detailed in
Annexure F of the IS:456 code.
Design Example
Design a two-way slab for an office floor of size 3.5 m x 4.5 m with discontinuous and simply
supported edges on all the sides with corner prevented from lifting and supporting a service live load
4 kN/m2. Adopt M20 grade concrete and Fe 415 HYSD bars.
Data:
Lx = 3.5
Ly = 4.5
fck= 20N/mm2
fy = 415 N/mm2
(Ly /Lx) = (4.5/3.5) = 1.28 < 2 Since the ratio of long to short span is less than 2, the slab should be
designed as two-way slab with provision for torsion at corners.
Depth of slab:
As the loading class exceeds the value of 3 kN/m2, adopt a span/depth ratio of 25.
Depth (Span/25)= (3500/25) = 140 mm

Adopt effective depth d = 140 mm
Overall depth D = 165 mm
Effective span:
Effective span= (clear span+ effective depth)
= (3.5 + 0.14) = 3.64 m
Loads:
Self-weight of slab= (0.165 x 25) = 4.125 kN/m2

Live load = 4.000
Floor finish = 0.600
Service load w = 8.725 kN/m2
Design ultimate load Wu= (1.5 x 8.725) = 13.08 kN/m2
Ultimate design moments and shear forces:

Refer to Table 10.2 (Table 26, IS:456 code) and readout the moment coefficients for (L/L x) = 1.28
∝x = 0.077 and ∝y = 0.056
Mux = (∝x wu L2x ) = (0.077 ∗ 13.08 ∗ 3.642 ) = 13.34 KN. m
Muy = (∝y wu L2x ) = (0.056 ∗ 13.08 ∗ 3.642 ) = 9.70 KN. m
Vux = (0.5wx Lx ) = (0.5 ∗ 13.08 ∗ 3.64) = 23.8KN
Check for depth:
Mmax = 0.138fck bd2
13.34∗106
d = √0.138∗20∗103 = 69.52mm < 140𝑚𝑚
Hence the effective depth selected is sufficient to resist the design ultimate moment.
Reinforcements (short and long span):
𝑀𝑢 = (0.87𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑠𝑡 𝑑 [1 − ( )]
𝐴𝑠𝑡 415
(13.34 𝑋 106 ) = (0.87 ∗ 415𝐴𝑠𝑡 ∗ 140) [1 − ( )]
103 ∗140∗20
Solving, Ast = 980 mm2
Adopt 10 mm diameter bars at 250 mm centers (Ast = 315 mm2) in short span direction. Using 10 mm
diameter bars in the long span direction, effective depth= (140 -10) = 130 mm
𝐴 415
(9.7 𝑋 106 ) = (0.87 ∗ 415𝐴𝑠𝑡 ∗ 130) [1 − (103 𝑠𝑡∗140∗20)]
Solving, Ast = 213 mm2
Provide 10 mm diameter bars at 300 mm centers (Ast = 262 mm2) in the long span direction.
Considering the short span and unit width of slab

𝑉 (23.8 X 103 )
𝜏𝑣 = (𝑏𝑑𝑢 ) = (103 X 140) = 0.17 N/mm2
100𝐴𝑠𝑡 100 X 315

𝑃𝑡 = ( 𝑏𝑑
) = (103 X 140) = 0.225
Permissible shear stress in slab (Table 19, 15:456)

k𝜏𝑐 = (1.27 x 0.31) = 0.39 N/mm2 > 𝜏𝑣
Hence the shear stresses are within safe permissible limits.
Considering unit width of slab in the short span direction Lx
L
( ) = 20
d max
For Pt = 0.225, From Fig.8.1, Kt = 1.6

𝑳
(𝒅) = [20 ∗ 1.6] = 32
𝒎𝒂𝒙
L 3640
( ) = ( ) = 26 < 32
d 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒂𝒍 140
Hence deflection control is satisfied.
Check for crack control:
1. Reinforcement provided is more than the minimum percentage of 0.12% = (0.012 x 165 x 1000)
= 198 mm2
2. Spacing of main reinforcement >/ 3 d, i.e. (3 x 140) = 420 mm
3. Diameter of reinforcement< (D/8) < (165/8) < 20.6 mm. Hence cracks will be within safe
permissible limits.
Torsion reinforcement at corners:
Area of torsion steel at each of the corners in 4 layers is computed as (0.75 x 315) = 236 mm2
Length over which torsion steel is provided = (1/ 5) short span = (1/ 5) (3500) = 700 mm.
Provide 6 mm diameter bars at 120 mm centers for a length of 700 mm at all four comers in 4 layers.
Reinforcement in edge strips:
Ast = 0.12% = (0.0012 x 103 x 165) = 198 mm2/m
Design using SP-16 design tables:

Refer to Table 40, SP-16 and readout the reinforcement spacing for 10 mm diameter bars (nearest depth
= 150 mm).
10 mm diameter bars at 250 mm centers for short span.
10 mm diameter bars at 300 mm centers for long span.
Reinforcement details:

The details of reinforcement in the two-way slab are shown in below Fig.
Fig: Reinforcement details in two-way slabs (with provision for torsion at corners)
DESIGN OF CANTILEVER SLABS
General Features
Reinforced concrete slabs projecting from fixed end and free at the other end are referred to as
cantilever slabs. Chajjas and balconies projecting from lintel beams or floor slabs are designed as one-
way slabs considering them as a cantilever fixed or continuous at the supports. In general, the depth of
cantilever slab is based on span/ depth ratio of 7 specified in IS:456-2000. It is important to provide the
required anchorage length near supports to the main reinforcements to prevent failure due to anchorage.
In cantilever slabs, maximum thickness is generally provided at the fixed end and gradually reducing to
a minimum value of 100 mm at the free end. Minimum distribution reinforcement is provided in the
transverse direction.
Cantilever slabs should invariably be checked for safety against excessive deflections, cracking and for
failure due to overturning.

Design Example
Design a cantilever chajja slab projecting 1 m from the support using M20 grade concrete and Fe
415 HYSD bars. Adopt a live load of 3kN/m2
Data:
L=1m 𝜏𝑏𝑑 = 1.2 N/mm2 for plain bars for M20 grade concrete
q = 3 kN/m2
fck = 20 N/mm2
fy = 415 N/mm2
Depth of slab:
Effective depth (span/7)= (1000/7) = 142.8 mm
Adopt d = 150 mm
D = 175 mm
Adopt maximum depth of 150 mm at support gradually reducing to 100 mm at the free end.
Loads:
Self-weight of slab = 0.5 (0.15 + 0.10)2.5 = 3.125 kN/m

Live load = 3.000
Finishes = 0.875 kN/m
Total working load = 7.000 kN/m `
Design ultimate load Wu = 1.5(7.00) = 10.5 kN/m
Ultimate design moments and shear forces:
𝑀𝑢 = (0.5𝑊𝑢 𝐿2 ) = (0.5 ∗ 10.5 ∗ 12 ) = 5.25𝐾𝑁. 𝑚
𝑉𝑢 = (𝑊𝑢 𝐿) = (10.5 ∗ 1) = 10.5𝐾𝑁
Check for depth:
𝑀𝑢,𝑙𝑖𝑚 = 0.138𝑓𝑐𝑘 𝑏𝑑 2
= (0.138 X 20 X 103 X 1502) 10-6
= 62.1 KN-m
Science Mu<Mu.lim section is under-reinforced
Reinforcements:
𝑀𝑢 = (0.87𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑠𝑡 𝑑 [1 − ( )]

𝐴 415
(5.25 𝑋 106 ) = (0.87 ∗ 415𝐴𝑠𝑡 ∗ 150) [1 − (103 𝑠𝑡∗150∗20)]
Solving, Ast = 105 mm2 < Ast,min·
Hence provide 10 mm diameter bars at 300 mm centers (Ast = 262 mm2) in the span direction and the
same as distribution reinforcement.
Anchorage length:
0.87𝑓𝑦 ∅ 0.87 ∗ 415 ∗ 10

𝐿𝑑 = ( )=( ) = 470𝑚𝑚
4𝜏𝑏𝑑 4 ∗ 1.2 ∗ 1.6
(L⁄d) = [(L⁄d) ∗ K t ] and K c = K f = 1.00

max basic
100Ast 100 ∗ 262

Pt = ( )= ( 3 ) = 0.174mm
bd 10 ∗ 150
Refer to Fig. 8.1, readout Kt = 1.8
𝐻𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 (𝐿⁄𝑑 ) = (9.7 ∗ 1.8) = 12.6

𝑚𝑎𝑥
(𝐿⁄𝑑 ) = (1000/150) = 6.66 < 12.6

𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦
Hence the slab satisfies the deflection criteria.
The reinforcement details in the cantilever slab are shown in below Fig.

DESIGN OF CONTINUOUS SLABS
Design Examples:
Design a one-way slab for an office floor which is continuous over T-beams spaced at 3.5 m intervals.
Assume a live load 4 kN/m2 and adopt M20 grade concrete and Fe 415 HYSD bars.
Data:
L = 3.5 m
q = 4kN/m2
fck = 20 N/mm2
fy = 415 N/mm2
Depth of slab:
Assuming a span/ depth ratio of 26 (Clause 23.2.1 of IS:456)
Effective depth d = (span/26) = (3500/26) = 135 mm.
Adopt d = 140 mm D = 165 mm
Loads:
Self-weight of slab = (0.165 x 25) = 4.125 kN/m2
Finishes = 0.875 kN/m2
Total working load (g) = 5.000 kN/m2
Service live load (q) = 4 kN/m2
Bending moments and shear forces:
Referring to Tables 12 and 13, IS: 456-2000 code, maximum negative BM at support next to the end
support is:
gL2 qL2
Mu (−ve) = 1.5 [ + ]
10 9
5∗3.52 4∗3.52
= 1.5 [ + ] = 17.35kN. 𝑚
10 9
Positive BM at centre of span
𝑔𝐿2 𝑞𝐿2
𝑀𝑢 (+𝑣𝑒) = 1.5 [ + ]
12 10
5 ∗ 3.52 4 ∗ 3.52
= 1.5 [ + ] = 15𝑘𝑁. 𝑚
12 10
Maximum shear force at the support
𝑉𝑢 = 1.5 ∗ 0.6(𝑔 + 𝑞)𝐿
= (1.5*0.6) (5+4) 3.5 = 28.35kN
Check for depth of slab:
M u,lim= 0.138fckbd2

= (0.138* 20*103*1402)10-6
54.1 KN.m
Since Mu < Mu,Iim, section is under-reinforced.
Reinforcements (short and long span):
𝑀𝑢 = (0.87𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑠𝑡 𝑑 [1 − ( )]
𝐴𝑠𝑡 415
(17.35 𝑋 106 ) = (0.87 ∗ 415𝐴𝑠𝑡 ∗ 140) [1 − ( )]
103 ∗140∗20
Solving, Ast= 360 mm2
Provide 10 mm diameter bars at 150 mm centers (Ast = 524 mm2). The same reinforcement is provided
for positive BM at mid-span.
Distribution steel = (0.0012 x 103 x 165) = 198 mm2
Provide 10 mm diameter bars at 300 mm centers (Ast = 262 mm2).
𝑉 (28.35 X 103 )
𝜏𝑣 = (𝑏𝑑𝑢 ) = = 0.20 N/mm2
(103 X 140)
100𝐴𝑠𝑡 100 X 262

𝑃𝑡 = ( ) = (103 X 140) = 0.185
𝑏𝑑
Refer to Table 19, IS: 456 and readout:
𝑘𝜏𝑐 = (1.27 ∗ 0.30) = 0.38𝑁/𝑚𝑚2
Since '𝜏𝑣 < 𝜏𝑐′ the slab is safe against shear stresses.
Considering the end and interior spans
(L⁄d) = [(L⁄d) ∗ K t ∗ K c ∗ K f ] . Also K c = K f = 1.00

max basic
100 ∗ 393
Pt = ( 3 ) = 0.28
10 ∗ 140

From Fig. 8.1, read out Kt = 1.5
20 + 26
(L⁄d) =( ) 1.5 = 34.5
max 2
3500
(L⁄d) =( ) = 25 < 34.5
actual 140
Hence the slab is safe against deflection control.
The reinforcement details in the continuous slab are shown in below Fig.
Fig: Reinforcement details in one-way continuous slab
DESIGN OF STAIRCASES
Reinforced concrete staircases serve an important function of connection between the floors in
multistorey buildings. In small buildings they are the only means of access between the floors. In
multistorey buildings with several floors, the staircase is generally located around the lift box unit and
serves as an emergency exit passage. The staircase unit comprises flight of steps with one or more
intermediate landings provided between the floor levels.
The structural components of a flight of stairs consist of:
1. The tread which forms the horizontal portion of the step is generally 250 to 300 mm wide
depending upon the type of building.
2. Riser which is the vertical distance between the adjacent treads or the vertical projection of the
step, generally in the range of 150 to 190 mm depending upon the type of building. The width
of stairs varies in the range of 1 to 1.5 m with a minimum value of 850 mm. Generally, public
buildings should be provided with larger widths permitting free and uninterrupted passage to
users.

3. Going forms the horizontal plan projection of an inclined flight of steps between the first and
the last riser. A flight of steps consists of two landings and one going with 10 to 12 steps.
The various technical terms generally used in the design of staircases such as flight, landing, going,
tread, riser, etc. are shown in Fig. 12.1
TYPES OF STAIRCASES
Over the years several types of staircases1, 2 have been developed with varying geometrical shapes and
structural behavior under loads. Typical types commonly used in various types of buildings are shown
in Fig. 12.2. The nomenclature used to describe these types of stairs according to Subramanian3 is as
follows:
1. Straight flight stairs to negotiate entrances and cellar floors (Fig. 12.2a)
2. Straight flight stairs with landing (Fig. 12.2b)
3. Quarter turn stairs (Fig. 12.2c)
4. Dog-legged stairs or half turn stairs (Fig.12.2d)
5. Branching stairs (Fig. 12.2e)
6. Open-well (half turn) stairs (Fig. 12.2f)
7. Open-well stairs with quarter turn landing (Fig. 12.2g)
8. Part-circular stairs (Fig. 12.2h)
9. Spiral stairs (Fig. 12.2i)
10. Helicoidal stairs (Fig. 12.2j)
The most commonly used types are the dog-legged and open-well staircases. In domestic and
office buildings. In multistorey buildings with lift provision, open-well stairs with quarter turn
landing are generally used around the lift well for emergency purposes.

In congested locations where there is constraint of space, spiral staircases are ideally suited. It is not
user-friendly due to the reduced tread width near the post and suitable only for single person to use the
stairs at a time. The stair slabs cantilever out from the main post and functionally act as cantilever in
space 4, 5.
Helicoidal staircase as shown in Fig. 12.3 is aesthetically superior to other types and generally used in
the entrance foyer of cinema theatres and shopping malls to connect the ground and first floors.
Helicoidal stair which is built as a ramp following the helicoidal curve with supports at ground & first
floor or with intermediate supports involves rigorous structural computations for the determination of
design moments and shear forces. The reader may refer to the publications of Bergman 6 and Scordelis7
for the design aspects of helicoidal stairs.

Typical types of Staircases
Helicoidal staircase
STRUCTURAL BEHAVIOUR OF STAIRCASES
The structural behaviour of staircases depends upon the support conditions and the direction of major
bending of the slab component under the following categories:
1. Staircase slab spanning longitudinally in the direction of the flight (along the sloping line)
2. Staircase slab spanning transversely (slab widthwise with central or side supports)
3. Staircase slab spanning out as a cantilever from a central pillar from floor to floor
LOADS ON STAIRCASES
The various types of loads to be considered in the design of staircases are grouped under dead and live
loads.
1. Dead loads include the self-weight of the stair slab (waist slab), tread and risers along with the
self-weight of landing slabs.
2. The live loads to be considered are specified in 1S:875-1987(part 11)9.
The Indian standard code specifies that imposed or live loads to be considered for the design of
stairs, landings should be not less than 3 kN/m2, provided the structure is not liable to overcrowding. In
case of buildings for educational institutions and public offices where overcrowding is expected, the
imposed load may be increased to 4 kN/m2
Design one of the flights of a dog-legged stairs spanning between landing beams using the following
data.
Data:
Type of staircase: Dog-legged with waist slab, treads and risers
Number of steps in the flight = 10 Tread T = 300 mm
Rise R = 150 mm
Width of landing beams = 300 mm
M20 grade concrete (fck = 20 N/ mm2)
Fe415 HYSD bars (fy = 415 N/mm2)
Effective span:
Effective span = (10 x 300) + 300 = 3300 mm = 3.3 m
Thickness of waist slab= (span/20) = (3300/20) = 165 mm
Adopt overall depth D = 165 mm
Effective depth d = 400 mm
Loads:
Dead loads of slab on slope ws = (0.165 x 1 x 25) = 4.125 kN/m
Dead load of slab on horizontal span is:
𝑤𝑠 √𝑅 2 + 𝑇 2
𝑤=[ ]
𝑇
4.125√1502 + 3002
=[ ] = 4.61 𝐾𝑁/𝑚
300
Dead load of one step= (0.5 x 0.15 x 0.3 x 25) = 0.56 kN/m
0.56 ∗ 1000
Load of steps per meter length = ( ) = 1.86 KN/m
300
Finishes etc. = 0.53 kN/ m
Total dead load= (4.61 + 1.86 + 0.53) = 7 kN/m
Service live load (liable for overcrowding)= 5 kN/m2
Total service load = (7 + 5) = 12 kN/m
Factored load Wu = (1.5 x 12) = 18 kN/m
Bending moments:
Maximum bending moment at centre of span is
M = 0.125wuL 2
= (0.125 X 18 X 3.32)
= 24.5 kN·m
Check for depth of waist slab:
𝑀𝑢 195 ∗ 106
𝑑=√ = √ = 266 𝑚𝑚
0.138𝑓𝑐𝑘 𝑏 0.138 ∗ 20 ∗ 103
=94.2 mm < 140 mm, Provided (hence safe)
Main reinforcements:
𝑀𝑢 = (0.87𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑠𝑡 𝑑 [1 − ( )]
𝐴 415
(24.5 𝑋 106 ) = (0.87 ∗ 415𝐴𝑠𝑡 ∗ 140) [1 − (103 𝑠𝑡∗140∗20)]
Solving, Ast= 530 mm2 /m
Provide 12 mm diameter bars at 200 mm centers (Ast = 565 mm2) as main reinforcement.
Distribution reinforcement:
Distribution reinforcement = 0.12% of cross-section

= (0.0012 X 1000 X 165)
= 198 mm2/m
Provide 8 mm diameter bars at 200 mm centers (Ast = 251 mm2) The details of reinforcements in the
staircase is shown in Fig. 12.7.
Reinforcement details in a flight of dog-legged staircase
Design using SP:16 design charts:
𝑀 24.5∗106
Compute the design parameter (𝑏𝑑𝑢2 ) = (103 ∗1402 ) = 1.25
Refer to Table 2, SP:16 design tables corresponding to fck = 20 N/mm2 and readout the percentage of
reinforcement as
Pt = 0.376
𝑝𝑏𝑑 0.376 ∗ 103 ∗ 140

𝐴𝑠𝑡 = ( )= ( ) = 527 𝑚𝑚2 /𝑚
100 100
The reinforcement quantity is the same as that obtained by analytical method.

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Design of RC Structural Elements (B18CE5010)

Behavior of one way and two way slabs:

Slabs are classified into two types:

1. One Way Slab

One Way Slab:

School of Civil Engineering, REVA University Page 1

Two Way Slab:

School of Civil Engineering, REVA University Page 2

Difference between One Way Slab and Two way slab:

(a) Live loads.

(b) External dead load. (Finishing and Partitions etc.).

(c) Dead load of the slab itself.

School of Civil Engineering, REVA University Page 3

Fig: various types of RC slabs

DESIGN OF ONE-WAY SLABS

School of Civil Engineering, REVA University Page 4

Mu = (0.125 Wu L 2) = (0.125 X 13.69 X 3.642) = 22.67 kN·m

Vu = (0.5 Wu L) = (0.5 X 13.69 X 3.64) = 24.92 kN

Limiting moment of resistance:

= (0.138 X 20 X 103 X 1402) X 10-6

Since Mu < Mu,!im, section is under-reinforced.

School of Civil Engineering, REVA University Page 5

Solving, Ast= 524mm2

Using 10mm diameter bars, the spacing

Adopt a spacing of 150 mm and alternate bars are bent up at supports.

Ast = 0.12% of gross cross-sectional area

= (0.0012 x 103 x 165) = 198 mm2

Provide 8 mm diameter bars at 250 mm centres (Ast = 201 mm2)

Check for shear stress:

100𝐴𝑠𝑡 100 X 0.5 X 524

Permissible shear stress in slab (Table 19, IS : 456)

k𝜏𝑐 = (1.27 x 0.28) = 0.30 N/mm2 > 𝜏𝑣

Hence, the shear stresses are within safe permissible limits.

Check for deflection control:

School of Civil Engineering, REVA University Page 6

Hence, the limit state of deflection is satisfied.

Design of reinforcement using SP-16 design tables:

Fig: Details of reinforcements in one-way slab

School of Civil Engineering, REVA University Page 7

DESIGN OF TWO-WAY SLABS

Simply Supported Slabs

where, Mx and My are the design moments in the x and y directions

w = uniformly distributed service load on the slab

Lx and Ly are the short and long spans

Span/Depth Ratio in Two-Way Slabs

1. Simply supported slabs = 28

School of Civil Engineering, REVA University Page 8

Deflection and Crack Control

Depth (Span/25)= (3500/25) = 140 mm

Effective span= (clear span+ effective depth)

= (3.5 + 0.14) = 3.64 m

Self-weight of slab= (0.165 x 25) = 4.125 kN/m2

Ultimate design moments and shear forces:

School of Civil Engineering, REVA University Page 9

∝x = 0.077 and ∝y = 0.056

Mux = (∝x wu L2x ) = (0.077 ∗ 13.08 ∗ 3.642 ) = 13.34 KN. m

Muy = (∝y wu L2x ) = (0.056 ∗ 13.08 ∗ 3.642 ) = 9.70 KN. m

Vux = (0.5wx Lx ) = (0.5 ∗ 13.08 ∗ 3.64) = 23.8KN