Calculation of loads for Column and Foundation Design

|Structural Design
Introduction to Design of RCC Structures
RCC structures

RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) is a construction technology which evolved with the
evolution of different structural materials in the 18th century during the Industrial Revolution.

Industrial Revolution brought in new technology which helped in the manufacture of various
materials. The Architect Le Corbusier used RCC for various constructions. He believed that any
shape and form was possible; if RCC is to be used.

For example, Notre Dame Du Haut, Ronchamp, France

What is RCC?
RCC means Reinforced Cement Concrete, i.e., cement concrete reinforced with steel bars, steel
plates, steel mesh etc to increase the tension withstanding capacity of the structure.

Cement Concrete can take up immense compression but weak in tension whereas steel is good in
withstanding both tension and compression.

Here are some of the advantages of RCC construction:

1. Materials used in RCC construction are easily available.

2. It is durable and long lasting.
3. It is fire resisting and not attacked by termites.
4. It is economical in ultimate cost.
5. The reinforced concrete member can be cast to any shape because of the fluidity of concrete.
6. Its monolithic character gives much rigidity to the structure.
7. Cost of maintenance is nil.

Here are some of its disadvantages:

1. Scrap value of reinforced members is almost nil.

2. Constant checking is required.
3. Skilled labour is engaged in the work.
4. The advantages of RCC outweigh its disadvantages.

This is one construction technique that made construction very easy and brought a boom to the
field of construction.
 Step by step procedure to RCC building design
A building is composed of various structural components such as Foundations, Plinth beams,
Columns, Beams, Slab, Staircase, Doors and Windows.

Design of Foundation | RCC Building Design

Foundation design is the structural component from where the RCC design is initiated. The
foundation design guide discussed earlier includes in detail the design procedure for isolated
column footing. Column footing is the most commonly used type of foundation. It serves a
variety of different buildings.

 Design of Foundation – the most commonly used foundation is Column footing.

 Calculation of loads in Foundation Design Calculation of loads is very important for the
purpose of structural design. This article outlines the thumb rules for the calculation of
various loads in foundation design.
 Types of Foundations This is a generic article on different types of foundations. It covers
some commonly used shallow foundations and also explains pressure distribution under a
foundation.

Design of Foundation – the most commonly used foundation is Column footing

Foundation Design

Foundation is the base of any structure. Without a solid foundation, the structure would not hold
for long. We have to be very cautious with the design of foundations because our entire structure
rests on the foundation. The job of a foundation is to transfer the loads of the building safely to
the ground.

The strength of the foundation determines the life of the structure. As we discussed in the earlier
article, design of foundation depends on the type of soil, type of structure and its load. Higher the
load bearing capacity of the soil, the larger the load it could safely carry.

Foundations are basically divided into Shallow Foundations and Deep Foundations.
In this article, we are going discuss the step by step guide to Column Footing Design for a
shallow foundation.

Reinforced Concrete Footings

Footing comprises of the lower end of a column, pillar or wall which i enlarged with projecting
courses so as to distribute load.
Footings shall be designed to sustain the applied loads, moments and forces and the induced
reactions and to ensure that any settlement which may occur shall be as uniform as possible and
the safe bearing capacity of soil is not exceeded.
In sloped or stepped footings, the effective cross-section in compression shall be limited by the
area above the neutral plane, and the angle of slope or depth and location of steps should be such
that the design requirements are satisfied at every section.
Design Procedure of Column Footings | Foundation Design

Here is a step-by-step guide to Column Footing Design:

Step 1

Area required for footing

Square = B = (w+w1)/P0

Where, Po = safe bearing capacity of soil

w1 = self weight of footing

w = self weight of footing

For Rectangle = b/d = B/D

A=bxd

Net upward pressure on the footing

q/p = W/A

Step 2

Bending Moment

Critical section for maximum bending moment is taken at the face of the column

For a square footing,

Mxx = q x B/8 (L – a)2

Mxx = q x L/8 (B – b)2

Myy = q x B/8 (L – a)2

Step 3

To fix the depth of the footing shall be greater of the following:

Depth from bending moment consideration

d = √(M/Qb)

where, Q = moment of required factor

Depth from shear consideration

Check for one way shear

Check for two way shear or punching shear

Critical shear for one way shear is considered at a distance ‘d’ from face of the column.

Shear force, V = qB [ ½(B – b) d]

Nominal shear stress, Tv = k . Tc

Tc = 0.16√fck

Step 4

Check for two way shear

Critical section for two way shear is considered at a distance at a distance d/2 from all the faces
of the column.

SF, V = q [ B2 – (b + d)2]

SF, V = q [L x B – (a + d)(b + d)]

Nominal shear stress, Tv = V/2((a+d)(b+d)d) ——- {for a rectangle

Tv = V/4((b+d)d) ——- {for a square

Tv = k . Tc

k = 0.5 + β > 1 ; [Beta β = ratio of sides of the column

Tc = 0.16√fck

Area of steel, Ast = M/((σ)stjd)

How to calculate the total loads on a column and corresponding footing?

This article has been written on the request from my readers. Engineering students generally get
confused when it comes to calculating loads for column and footings design. The manual process
is simple.

Types of loads on column

1. Self weight of the column x Number of floors

2. Self weight of beams per running meter
3. Load of walls per running meter
4. Total Load of slab (Dead load + Live load + Self weight)

The columns are also subjected to bending moments which have to be considered in the final
design. The best way to design a good structure is to use advanced structural design software like
ETABS or STAAD Pro. These tools are leagues ahead of manual methodology for structural
design, and highly recommended.

In professional practice, there are some basic assumptions we use for structural loading
calculations.

For Columns
Self weight of Concrete is around 2400 kg per cubic meter, which is equivalent to 240 kN. Self
weight of Steel is around 8000 kg per cubic meter. Even if we assume a large column size of 230
mm x 600 mm with 1% steel and 3 meters standard height, the self weight of column is around
1000 kg per floor, which is equivalent to 10 kN. So, in my calculations, I assume self weight of
column to be between 10 to 15 kN per floor.

For Beams

Similar calculations as above. I assume each meter of beam has dimensions of 230 mm x 450
mm excluding slab thickness. So, the self weight can be around 2.5 kN per running meter.

For Walls

Density of bricks varies between 1500 to 2000 kg per cubic meter. For a 6″ thick wall of 3 meter
height and a length of 1 meter, we can calculate the load per running meter to be equal to 0.150 x
1 x 3 x 2000 = 900 kg which is equivalent to 9 kN/meter. You can calculate load per running
meter for any brick type using this technique.

For autoclaved, aerated concrete blocks like Aerocon or Siporex, the weight per cubic meter is
between 550 to 700 kg per cubic meter. By using these blocks for construction, the wall loads
per running meter can be as low as 4 kN/meter, which can result in a significant reduction in the
cost of construction.

For Slab

Assume the slab has a thickness of 125 mm. Now each square meter of slab would have a self
weight of 0.125 x 1 x 2400 = 300 kg which is equivalent to 3 kN. Now, assume Finishing load to
be 1 kN per meter and superimposed live load to be 2 kN per meter. So, we can calculate slab
load to be around 6 to 7 kN per square meter.

Factor of Safety

In the end, after calculating the entire load on a column, please do not forget to add in the factor
of safety. For IS 456:2000, the factor of safety is 1.5.

Design of Beams | RCC Building Design

Beams are mainly classified into two types:

1. Doubly reinforced beam (most commonly used in RCC Construction)

2. Singly reinforced beam
A series of articles have been written for the design of Singly reinforced sections. The articles
include basic definitions and formulas, understanding stresses and modular ratios, assumptions
for singly reinforced sections, Design method 1, Design method 2, Moment of resistance and a
number of solved numerical examples.

 Design Method One

 Design Method Two
RCC Beams

RCC beams are cast in cement concrete reinforced with steel bars. Beams resist compression and
tensile forces and add rigidity to the structure.

Beams generally carry vertical gravitational forces but can also be used to carry horizontal loads
(i.e., loads due to an earthquake or wind). The loads carried by a beam are transferred
to columns, walls, or girders, which then transfer the force to adjacent structural compression
members. In light frame construction the joists rest on the beam.

In this article, we are going to discuss types of beam construction and RCC design of simply
supportedreinforced beam.

Simply supported RCC beam construction is of two types:

 Singly reinforced beam

 Doubly reinforced beam

Singly reinforced beam

A singly reinforced beam is a beam provided with longitudinal reinforcement in the tension zone
only. Compressive forces are handled by the concrete in the beam.

Doubly reinforced beam

 Beams reinforced with steel in compression and tension zones are called doubly reinforced
beams. This type of beam will be found necessary when due to head room consideration or
architectural consideration the depth of the beam is restricted.

 The beam with its limited depth, if reinforced on the tension side only, may not have enough
moment of resistance, to resist the bending moment.

 By increasing the quantity of steel in the tension zone, the moment of resistance cannot be
increased indefinitely. Usually, the moment of resistance can be increased by not more than
25% over the balanced moment of resistance, by making the beam over-reinforced on the
tension side.
  Hence, in order to further increase the moment of resistance of a beam section of unlimited
dimensions, a doubly reinforced beam is provided.

Besides, this doubly reinforced beam is also used in the following circumstances:

 The external live loads may alternate i.e. may occur on either face of the member.

For example:

 A pile may be lifted in such a manner that the tension and compression zones may alternate.

 The loading may be eccentric and the eccentricity of the load may change from one side of the
axis to another side.

 The member may be subjected to a shock or impact or accidental lateral thrust.

Design procedure for doubly reinforced beam

Step 1

Determine the limiting moment of resistance for the given c/s(Mulim) using the equation for
singly reinforced beam

Mulim = 0.87.fy.Ast1.d [1 – 0.42Xumax]

Or

Balanced section

Ast1 = (0.36.fck.b.Xumax)/(0.87fy)

Step 2

If factored moment Mu > Mulim, then doubly reinforced beam is required to be designed for
additional moment.

Mu – Mulim = fsc.Asc (d – d’) [fsc value from page no. 70]

Step 3

Additional area of tension steel Ast2

Ast2 =Asc.fsc/0.87fy

Step 4

Total tension steel Ast, Ast = Ast1 + Ast2

DESIGN METHOD 1;

Singly reinforced sections | Design of RCC structures

Earlier we discussed some basic terms in reference to singly reinforced sections design. It is
important that you are thorough with the basic definitions and have complete understanding of
stresses in concrete and steel. You should also possess the knowledge of reinforcement and
terminology of beams which includes understanding singly reinforced beam, doubly reinforced
beam, under reinforced beam, over reinforced beam and balanced reinforced beam.

There are two methods for the design of singly reinforced sections. In this article we will discuss
the first method of singly reinforced section in a stepwise manner. The discussion will include
the method for determining the value of neutral axis followed by a formula for the area of steel
calculations.

Let,

b = breadth of a rectangular beam

d = effective depth of a beam

x = depth of neutral axis below the compression edge

Ast = cross-sectional area of steel in tension

σcbc = permissible compressive stress in concrete in bending

σst = permissible stress in steel

m = modular ratio

Neutral axis

Neutral axis is denoted as NA.

There are two methods for determining the neutral axis depending on the data given.
Stress strain diagram

In this article, we will discuss the first method followed by a couple of numericals for your
understanding and then move on to the second method.

We will follow a simple two step procedure.

Step One:

Given that:

 Dimensions of the section (b and d)

 Permissible stresses in concrete and steel (σcbc and σst)
 Modular ratio (m)

From the above diagram, the formula is as follows:

σcbc/(σst/m) = x/(d – x) ——————————– equation 1

From the above equation 1, the value of x can be determined.

Step two:

To find area of steel

Equating total compressive force (C) to total tensile force (T)

C=T

C = area x average compressive stress

= (b.x) X (σcbc + 0)/2

= bx (σcbc/2)
T = area x tensile stress

= Ast x σst

Therefore, bx (σcbc/2) = Ast x σst ———————-equation 2

Calculation of neutral axis can be done from equation 1 and the area of steel from equation 2.

The area of tensile steel is expressed as a percentage (pt) of the effective section.

pt = Ast x 100/bd

We will post some numericals solved using the same method. However, it is important that you
practice enough numericals to get a hold of the design procedure.

DESIGN MTHOD 2:

Design of RCC Structures | Basic definitions and formulas

In this article, we will go through the basic definitions of Stress, strain, elastic materials
and modulus of elasticity. This will be our first step towards understanding the design of
“Singly reinforced sections”.

What is stress and how does it develop?

When an object is subjected to an external force, the object tends to build up internal resistance
within itself (material). This resistance is termed as “stress”.

In short, stress can be defined as load per unit area.

Stress can be classified into four types:

1. Compressive stress
2. Tensile stress
3. Bending stress
4. Shear stress

Stress = Load/Area = W/A = N/mm2

Where, N = Newton

What is Strain?

To make it easier for you to understand, let’s merge the definition of stress with strain.
When an object is subjected to an external load, the internal resistance which is built up with the
object itself is not enough to withstand the external load results into deformation of the object.
This alteration or deformation of the object is called strain.

The formula for strain is given as follows:

Strain = Change in length/Original length

Strain has no unit.

What are elastic materials?

Elastic materials have the capacity to regain their original shape on removal of the load applied
on the material.

For example:

When a rubber band is stretched, it deforms in shape but as soon as the pressure is released, the
rubber band returns back to its original shape and size. This property of the material is called
elasticity.

What is “Modulus of elasticity”?

We know that stress is directly proportional to strain within the elastic limit. The ratio of stress to
strain is a constant which is denoted as k.

Stress/Strain = K

This constant is the measure of the elasticity of the material, hence called “modulus of
elasticity”.

The formula for modulus of elasticity is given by,

E = modulus of elasticity = Stress/Strain = N/mm2

Denotations and their values:

 Modulus of elasticity for concrete = Ec = 2 x 105 N/mm2

 Modulus of steel = Es = 5700 (square root of fck) N/mm2

Where, fck = characteristic compressive strength of concrete

ow we will move on with our discussion on “Permissible stresses in concrete and steel” and
“Understanding Modular ratio”.
Permissible Stresses in Concrete

Reinforced concrete designs make use of M15 grade concrete. The permissible stresses for
different grades of concrete is different. They are given below:

Sr. Concrete Grade M15 M20 M25 M30

No.

1. Stress in compression 5 7 8.5 10

1. Bending

1. Direct 4 5 6 8

2. Stress in bond (average) for 0.6 0.8 0.9 1.0

plain bars

3. Characteristics compressive 15 20 25 30
strength

Also refer for other values in IS:456-1978

Permissible Stresses in Steel

The permissible stresses for different grades of steel are given in the table above.

The different grades steel available in the market with their market names are as follows:

Mild Steel

Grade I steel is known as mild steel. The abbreviation used for Mild steel is (m.s.)

High Tensile deformed steel has two types. They are as follows:

1. Grade Fe415 (Tor-40 or Tistrong I)

2. Grade Fe500 (Tor-50 or Tistrong II)

The names of the high tensile deformed steel have been derived from their manufacturers.

For example:

 Tor-Isteg Steel Corporation in Calcutta manufactures Tor-40 and Tor-50. Hence, the name.
 Tata Iron and Steel Co. Ltd, Calcutta manufactures Tistrong I and Tistrong II.
(Being aware of the names of the manufacturers is important for students especially those
studying Civil and Structural Engineering.)

Understanding Modular Ratios

It is defined as the ratio of moduli of steel to the moduli of concrete. It is denoted by the
letter “m”.

m=Es/Ec

The modular ratio is not constant for all grades of concrete. It varies with the grade of concrete.
Es/Ec is generally not used to calculate modular ratio for reinforced concrete designs.

As per IS: 456-1978;

m is calculated by the following formula:

m = 280/3σcbc

where,

σcbc = permissible compressive stress in concrete in bending.

Calculation of Modular ratio values for different grades of concrete

Grade of concrete Modular ratio

M15 m = 280/3×5 = 18.66

M20 m = 280/3×7 = 13.33

M25 m = 280/3×8.5 = 10.98

M30 m = 280/3×10 = 9.33

It should be remembered that rounding off the modular ratio values is not permitted by Indian
Standard.

Now, we will move on with our discussion on “assumptions for singly reinforced sections”.
The equivalent stress-strain diagram is developed with respect to the mentioned assumptions in
the post.

1. The sections that are plane before bending remain plane after bending, at any cross-
section.
2. All tensile stresses are taken up by steel reinforcement and none by concrete.
3. The stress to strain relationship of steel and concrete under working load is a straight line.
4. The modular ratio m has the value 280/3σcbc
5. There is a perfect adhesion between steel and concrete and no slip takes place between
steel and concrete.

Singly reinforced sections | Design of RCC structures

Earlier we discussed some basic terms in reference to singly reinforced sections design. It is
important that you are thorough with the basic definitions and have complete understanding of
stresses in concrete and steel. You should also possess the knowledge of reinforcement and
terminology of beams which includes understanding singly reinforced beam, doubly reinforced
beam, under reinforced beam, over reinforced beam and balanced reinforced beam.

There are two methods for the design of singly reinforced sections. In this article we will discuss
the first method of singly reinforced section in a stepwise manner. The discussion will include
the method for determining the value of neutral axis followed by a formula for the area of steel
calculations.

Let,

b = breadth of a rectangular beam

d = effective depth of a beam

x = depth of neutral axis below the compression edge

Ast = cross-sectional area of steel in tension

σcbc = permissible compressive stress in concrete in bending

σst = permissible stress in steel

m = modular ratio

Neutral axis

Neutral axis is denoted as NA.

There are two methods for determining the neutral axis depending on the data given.

Stress strain diagram

In this article, we will discuss the first method followed by a couple of numericals for your
understanding and then move on to the second method.

We will follow a simple two step procedure.

Step One:

Given that:

 Dimensions of the section (b and d)

 Permissible stresses in concrete and steel (σcbc and σst)
 Modular ratio (m)

From the above diagram, the formula is as follows:

σcbc/(σst/m) = x/(d – x) ——————————– equation 1

From the above equation 1, the value of x can be determined.

Step two:

To find area of steel

Equating total compressive force (C) to total tensile force (T)

C=T

C = area x average compressive stress

= (b.x) X (σcbc + 0)/2

= bx (σcbc/2)

T = area x tensile stress

= Ast x σst

Therefore, bx (σcbc/2) = Ast x σst ———————-equation 2

Calculation of neutral axis can be done from equation 1 and the area of steel from equation 2.

The area of tensile steel is expressed as a percentage (pt) of the effective section.

pt = Ast x 100/bd

Numerical Problem

An RC beam 200mm wide has an effective depth of 350mm. The permissible stresses in
concrete and steel are 5N/mm2 and 140 N/mm2 respectively. Find the depth of neutral axis,
area of steel and percentage of steel. (modular ratio (m) = 18.66)

Step One:

Given that:

b = breadth of a rectangular beam = 200mm

d = effective depth of a beam = 350mm

x = depth of neutral axis below the compression edge = ?

Ast = cross-sectional area of steel in tension = ?

σcbc = permissible compressive stress in concrete in bending = 5N/mm2

σst = permissible stress in steel = 140 N/mm2

m = modular ratio = 18.66

From the concrete stress diagram, the formula is given as,

σcbc/(σst/m) = x/(d – x)

5/(140/18.66) = x/(350-x)

Therefore, x = 139.97mm

Step two:

To find area of steel

Equating total compressive force (C) to total tensile force (T)

C=T

C = area x average compressive stress

= (b.x) X (σcbc + 0)/2

= bx (σcbc/2)

T = area x tensile stress

= Ast x σst

Therefore, bx (σcbc/2) = Ast x σst

200 x 139.97 x 5/2 = Ast x 140

Therefore, Ast = 499.89 mm2

Calculating area of Steel (pt)

Area of steel is expressed as a percentage. The formula for percentage of steel is as follows;

pt = Ast x 100/ bd

= 499.89 x 100/(200×350)

= 0.714

Now we will move on with our discussion on “2nd Design method” for the design of Singly
reinforced Sections.
We will follow a simple three-step procedure for the design of singly reinforced sections.
Step One:

Given that:

 Dimensions of section (b and d)

 Area of tensile steel (Ast)
 Modular ratio (m)

Stress-strain diagram

From the figure above, we can see that the neutral axis is situated at the centre of gravity of
a given section. Therefore, the moments of area on either side are equal.

Therefore, moment of area on compression side = moment of area on tension side

Moment of area on compression side = Area of compression side x distance of c.g. of

compression area from N.A.

= (bx).(x/2)

= bx.x/2

Step Two:

Moment of area on tension side = equivalent area of concrete x distance of c.g. of tensile steel
from N.A.

= (m Ast) x (d-x)

= mAst(d-x)
Step three:

Where, mAst = equivalent area of concrete

Therefore, bx.x/2 = mAst (d – x)

Numerical Problem

Find the position of the neutral axis of a reinforced concrete beam 150mm wide and
400mm deep (effective). Area of tensile steel is 804mm2. (modular ratio = m = 18.66)

Step One:

Given that:

b = breadth of a rectangular beam = 150mm

d = effective depth of a beam = 400mm

Ast = cross-sectional area of steel in tension = 804mm2

x = depth of neutral axis below the compression edge

m = modular ratio = 18.66

Taking moments of area of compression and tension sides about neutral axis,

bx.x/2 = mAst (d – x)

150×2/2 = 18.66 x 804 (400 – x)

75×2 = 15002.64(400-x)

75 x2 = 6001056 – 15002.64x

x2 + 200x – 80014 = 0

After solving the quadratic equation, we will get two values (a negative value and a positive
value)

x = 200mm
Now we will move on with our discussion on “Moment of resistance” and derive the formula for
Moment of resistance for balanced section, under-reinforced section and over reinforced section.

The moment of resistance of the concrete section is the moment of couple formed by the
total tensile force (T) in the steel acting at the centre of gravity of reinforcement and the
total compressive force (C) in the concrete acting at the centre of gravity (c.g.) of the
compressive stress diagram. The moment of resistance is denoted by M.

The distance between the resultant compressive force (C) and tensile force (T) is called the lever
arm, and is denoted by z.

Moment of resistance | Singly reinforced Section

From the diagram above, it is clear that the intensity of compressive stress varies from
maximum at the top to zero at the neutral axis.

Therefore, centre of gravity of the compressive force is at a distance x/3 from the top edge of the
section.

Therefore, z = d-x/3

Moment of resistance is given by,

Mr = C x z

= bx (σcbc/2)(d-x/3)

OR

Mr = T x z

= Ast σst(d – x/3)

For balanced section, the formula is as follows,

Mr = bxc σcbc (d – xc/3)

= Ast σst(d – xc/3)

For under-reinforced section, the formula is as follows,

Mr = T x z

= Ast.σst (d – x/3)

For over-reinforced section, the formula is given as,

Mr = C x z

Mr = bx( σcbc /2) (d – x/3)

Now we will move on with our next solved numerical example in which we will make use of the
formulas that we have derived in our earlier articles.

Numerical Problem

Determine the following:

a) The position of the neutral axis

b) Lever arm

c) Moment of resistance

d) Percentage of steel

(For a rectangular beam section of width b mm and effective depth d mm. Take σcbc = 5 N/mm2,
σst = 140 N/mm2, m = 18.66

To find Neutral Axis (NA)

σcbc /(σst/m) = xc/(d – xc)

5/(140/18.66) = xc/(d – xc)

Therefore, xc = 0.399d mm= 0.4dmm

To find lever arm

z = d – xc/3
= d – 0.4d/3

= 0.867dmm

= 0.87d mm

To find Moment of resistance

Mr = C x z

= bxc (σcbc/2)z

= b (0.4d)(5/2)(0.87d)

= 0.87 bd2 N-mm

To find the percentage of steel

Equating, C = T

bxc.σcbc/2 = Ast. σst

Therefore, Ast = bxc.σcbc/2 σst

= [b (0.4d)(5/2)]/140

= bd/140 mm2

Pt = Ast. 100/bd

= (bd/140) x (100/bd)

= 0.71

ow we will move on with our next solved example in which we will make use of formulas derived
earlier. That is why it is necessary that you go through the entire step by step guide in order to gain
complete understanding.

Numerical Problem

Calculate the moment of resistance of an RC beam 250mm wide, the depth of the centre of
reinforcement being 500mm. Assume σcbc = 5N/mm2, σst = 140 N/mm2, modular ratio =
18.66
Given that,

b = width of the beam = 250mm

d = depth of the beam = 500mm

σcbc = permissible compressive stress in concrete in bending = 5N/mm2

σst = permissible stress in steel = 140 N/mm2

m = modular ratio = 18.66

To find Neutral Axis (NA)

σcbc /(σst/m) = xc/(d – xc)

5/(140/18.66) = xc/(500 – xc)

Xc = 199.95mm = 200mm

To find lever arm

z = d – xc/3

= 500 – 200/3

= 433.33mm

To find Moment of resistance

Mr = C x z

= bxc (σcbc/2)z

= 250 x 200 x 5/2 x 433.33

= 54166250 N-mm

= 54.166 kN-m

OR

Mr = T x z

= Ast. σst.z —————————equation 1

To find Ast

Equating, C = T

bxc.σcbc/2 = Ast. σst

Therefore, Ast = bxc.σcbc/2 σst

Ast = (250 x 200 x 5/2)/140

Ast = 892.85 mm2

Substituting the value of Ast in equation 1;

Mr = T x z

= Ast. σst.z

= 892.85 x 140 x 433.33

= 54165817 N-mm

= 54.1658 kN-m

From the above example, it is clear that in case of a balanced section, the Mr can be
calculated either as Mr = C x z or as Mr = T x z. The values obtained for moment of
resistance are the same for both the formulas.

Design of Columns | RCC Building Design

Design of RCC columns

The article discusses the classification criteria for a column, and design of different types of
reinforcements for columns which include longitudinal, transverse and helical reinforcements.

Guidelines to be followed for making a column layout

In this article, we will go through the essential thumb rules to be followed for giving a column
layout. Ofcourse columns have to be designed in accordance to the total forces acting on the
structure, but apart from that, it is essential for every Civil engineer and Architect to remember a
few thumb rules so that they are prevented from making mistakes.
Three thumb rules to be followed are as follows:

1. Size of the Columns

2. Distance between Columns
3. Alignment of columns

Minimum Size of RCC columns

The size of the columns depends on the total load on the columns. There are axial loads and
lateral loads. Large beam spans induce bending moment not only in the beams, but also in
columns which are pulled by the stresses in the beams. It is important to use advanced structural
design software like ETabs or Staad pro. I highly recommend every structural designer learn
these software. The thumb rules are for general designing in very small projects.

For this general thumb rule, we will assume a structure of G+1 floors high, using standard
6″ walls.

Minimum size of an RCC column should not be less than 9”x 9” (225mm x 225mm) with 4 bars
of 12 MM Fe500 Steel.

These days the minimum I use in my projects is 9″ x 12″ (225 mm x 300mm) with 6 bars of 12
MM Fe500 steel. You can never go wrong with strong columns. I also recommend use of M20
grade concrete for the structure (ratio 1 part Cement : 1.5 parts Sand : 3 parts Aggregate with 0.5
parts water by volume). I recommend use of 8 MM stirrups at a distance of 150 MM center to
center throughout the length of column.

This setup of 9″ x 12″ RCC columns is safe for G+1 Floors. There are a lot of other
considerations, but this is just a thumb rule.

Span (distance) between two columns

For the above column setup, a span of up to 5 meters is quite safe. One can use beams of size 9″
X 12″ (225 MM x 300MM) with a slab thickness of 5″ (125 MM) cast in M20 concrete for spans
up to 5m. There are other considerations like secondary and tertiary spans, point loads and wall
loads which have to be considered. It is complicated, but thumb rules can work if the structure is
simple. It is always recommended to use structural design software like ETabs or Staad pro for
design.

In a beam of up to 5 meters length, secondary spans of up to 4 meters, wall loads of up to 8 kN

per running meter, I can use steel as below.

 Top Steel – 2 bars of 12 MM

 Crank bars – 2 bars of 12 MM, cranked at an angle of 45° at a distance of L/4 at both ends of a
simply supported beam
 Bottom Steel – 3 bars of 12 MM.

This configuration can change depending on a lot of factors.

Alignment of Columns

Placing of columns depend completely on the plan. A planner has a very important job. A grid
column placement is always preferred in order to reduce point loads and unnecessary
complications while construction. This reduces the cost of construction as well as time required
for construction. Beams which have continuity with other simply supported beams have reduced
bending moments, and thus require less steel and concrete depth to be safe.

Columns have to be connected with each other for smooth transfer of loads. An experienced
planner will keep such things in mind when planning the structure.

Column Layout for a residence using the Thumb rules| Building Construction

In my earlier article, we discussed three important thumb rules that are to be followed while
making a column layout for any building. They are as follows:

1. Size of the Columns

2. Distance between the columns
3. Alignment of Columns

In this article, we will see an example of a residence of which column layout is done keeping the
above three thumb rules in mind.

Column Layout for a residence

The residential villa comprises of 1 and half floors. Initially, the column size 9″x12″ had been
used with the use of M15 grade of concrete. The builder wanted to save on his budget by making
the columns smaller in size. That is why, the columns in the Floor plans below are 9″x9″ in size
but the Engineer made sure that M20 grade of concrete would be used for Columns.
Column Layout for a Ground Floor

Column Layout for First Floor

Thumb rule no1:

Size of the Columns

The size of the columns are 9″x9″ with the use of M20 grade of concrete.

Thumb rule no.2:

Distance between the columns:

The distance between the columns does not exceed 4.5m.

Thumb rule no.3:

Alignment of Columns

The Columns have been arranged on a iron grid pattern. So there is absolutely no question of
zigzag walls and zigzag beams which reducing complications in the structure.

Design of Slabs | RCC Building Design

 Various types of RCC Slabs Different types of RCC Slabs have been discussed including
corrugated, ribbed, waffle, prefabricated concrete slab and in-situ concrete slabs.
 Design of Simply supported Slab
 Design of Sunken Slab

Reinforced Cement Concrete Slab

 A Reinforced Concrete Slab is the one of the most important component in a building. It is a
structural element of modern buildings. Slabs are supported on Columns and Beams.

 RCC Slabs whose thickness ranges from 10 to 50 centimetres are most often used for the
construction of floors and ceilings.

 Thin concrete slabs are also used for exterior paving purpose.
RCC Slab Construction

 In many domestic and industrial buildings a thick concrete slab, supported on foundations or
directly on the sub soil, is used to construct the ground floor of a building.

 In high rises buildings and skyscrapers, thinner, pre-cast concrete slabs are slung between the
steel frames to form the floors and ceilings on each level.

 While making structural drawings of the reinforced concrete slab, the slabs are abbreviated to
“r.c.slab” or simply “r.c.”.

Design of various types of slabs and their reinforcement

For a suspended slab, there are a number of designs to improve the strength-to-weight ratio. In
all cases the top surface remains flat, and the underside is modulated:

 Corrugated, usually where the concrete is poured into a corrugated steel tray. This improves
strength and prevents the slab bending under its own weight. The corrugations run across the
short dimension, from side to side.

 A ribbed slab, giving considerable extra strength on one direction.

 A waffle slab, giving added strength in both directions.

Reinforcement design

 A one way slab has structural strength in shortest direction.

 A two way slab has structural strength in two directions.

These slabs could be cantilevered or Simply Supported Slabs.

Construction

 A concrete slab can be cast in two ways: It could either be prefabricated or cast in situ.

 Prefabricated concrete slabs are cast in a factory and then transported to the site ready to be
lowered into place between steel or concrete beams.

 They may be pre-stressed (in the factory), post-stressed (on site), or unstressed. Care should be
taken to see that the supporting structure is built to the correct dimensions to avoid trouble
with the fitting of slabs over the supporting structure.

 In situ concrete slabs are built on the building site using formwork. Formwork is a box-like setup
in which concrete is poured for the construction of slabs.

 For reinforced concrete slabs, reinforcing steel bars are placed within the formwork and then
the concrete is poured.

 Plastic tipped metal, or plastic bar chairs are used to hold the reinforcing steel bars away from
the bottom and sides of the form-work, so that when the concrete sets it completely envelops
the reinforcement.

 Formwork differs with the kind of slab. For a ground slab, the form-work may consist only of
sidewalls pushed into the ground whereas for a suspended slab, the form-work is shaped like a
tray, often supported by a temporary scaffold until the concrete sets.

Materials used for the formwork

 The formwork is commonly built from wooden planks and boards, plastic, or steel. On
commercial building sites today, plastic and steel are more common as they save labour.

 On low-budget sites, for instance when laying a concrete garden path, wooden planks are very
common. After the concrete has set the wood may be removed, or left there permanently.

 In some cases formwork is not necessary – for instance, a ground slab surrounded by brick or
block foundation walls, where the walls act as the sides of the tray and hardcore acts as the
base.

Span – Effective Depth ratios

 Excessive deflections of slabs will cause damage to the ceiling, floor finishes and other
architectural details. To avoid this, limits are set on the span-depth ratios.

 These limits are exactly the same as those for beams. As a slab is usually a slender member the
restriction on the span-depth ratio becomes more important and this can often control the
depth of slab required in terms of the span – effective depth ratio is given by,

Minimum effective depth = span/(basic ratio x modification factor)

The modification factor is based on the area of tension steel in the shorter span when a slab is
singly reinforced at midspan, the modification factors for the areas of tensions and compression
steel are as given in the figure 2 and 4 of the code.

Solid Slab spanning in two directions

 When a slab is supported on all four of its sides, it effectively spans in both directions, and it is
sometimes more economical to design the slab on this basis. The moment of bending in each
direction will depend on the ratio of the two spans and the conditions of restraint at each
support.

 If the slab is square and the restraint is similar along the four sides, then the load will span
equally in both directions. If the slab is rectangular, then more than one-half of the load will be
carried in the shorter direction and lesser load will be imposed on the longer direction.

 If one span is much longer than the other, a large portion of the load will be carried in the
shorter direction and the slab may as well be designed as spanning in only one direction.

 Moments in each direction of span are generally calculated using co-efficients which are
tabulated in the code.

 The slab is reinforced with the bars in both directions parallel to the spans with the steel for the
shorter span placed farthest from the natural acis to five the greater effective depth.

 The span-efective depths are based on the shorter span and the percentage of the
reinforcement in that direction.

What are Simply Supported Slabs?

Simply supported slabs are supported on columns or stanchions. They have support on all four
sides.

Simply Supported Slab

Simply supported slabs are classified as One way slabs and Two way slabs.
One way slabs bend in one direction only and transfer their loads to the two support beams in
opposite directions. Their main steel in on shorter span length. L/B ratio is generally less than 2.

Two way slabs bend in both directions, and transfer their loads and stresses on all four sides. L/B
ratio is equal to or greater than 2.

Simply supported slabs don’t give adequate provision to resist torsion at corner to prevent corner
from lifting.
The maximum bending moment will be given if the slabs are restrained. But atleast 50% of the
tension reinforcement provided at the mid span should extend to the support. The remaining 50%
should extend to within 0.1Lx or Ly at the support as appropriate.

You can use a free app to design simply supported RCC Slab panel.

RCC Slab Design depends on the on the dimensions of the slab after which the slab is termed as
a one-way slab or a two-way slab…

In the design of RCC structures, Column Design and Beam Design are to be done before we start
with RCC Slab Design…

Basic Rules followed in the design of simply supported Slab

Thickness of slab

l/d ratio should be less than the following:

 Simply supported slab

 Continuous slab, l/d = 26

 Cantilever slab, l/d = 7

In any case of the above, the thickness should not be less than 100mm

Effective span

 Distance between centre to centre of support

 Clear span plus effective depth

Minimum main reinforcement

 0.15% gross c/s of slab – for MS bars

 0.12% gross c/s of slab – for HYSD bars

Spacing of main bars

The spacing or c/c distance of main bars shall not exceed following:

 Calculated value

 3xd

 300mm
Distribution or Temperature reinforcement

This reinforcement runs perpendicular to the main reinforcement in order to distribute the load
and to resist the temperature and shrinkage stresses.

It should be atleast equal to;

 0.15% gross c/s of slab – for MS bars

 0.12% gross c/s of slab – for HYSD bars

Spacing of distribution bars

The spacing or c/c distance of distribution bars shall not exceed the following

 Calculated area

 5xd

 450mm

Diameter of bars

The diameter of the bars varies from 8mm to 14mm and should not exceed 1/8th of the overall
depth of the slab.

For distribution steel, the diameter varies from 6mm to 8mm.

Cover

The bottom cover for reinforcement shall not be less than 15mm or less than the diameter of such
bar.

Construction of Sunken Slabs | Building Construction

Sunken slabs are used in the toilets, bathrooms and washing place where we have our washing
machines. The purpose of having a sunken slab is to conceal all the pipes below the floor. Since
the pipes that carry water are concealed below the floor, care has to be taken to avoid leakage
problems.

It is seen that people are not much aware of the idea of waterproofing the Sunken slab before the
floor finish is done. In this article, we will discuss the method of the construction of Sunken
slab and waterproofing technique.

Method of construction of a Sunken Slab

 The concrete of the R.C.C. (floor and sunken slab) should mixed with a waterproofing material to
get a denser, watertight concrete.
  Then cement and waterproofing material should be diluted in water and splashed onto the RCC
sunken slab. Over that a layer of plaster should be provided using a mortar plasticizer with the
cement mortar.

 Brick laying of walls and plastering (prior to tiling) of the walls and floor should be done with
cement mortar mixed with a mortar plasticizer.

 Tile fixing for the floor and walls tiles should be done with non-shrink, waterproof tile adhesives
to make the tiled area waterproof.

 Sanitary pipe joints should be sealed with sealants specially manufactured for Sealing Sanitary
joints firmly so that no water can leak through.

Design of Staircase | RCC Building Design

Design of Dog legged Staircase

The article outlines the types of staircases and discusses in detail the design procedure for the design of
dog-legged RCC staircase. It includes classification of stairs based on the spanning direction.

1. Stairs spanning horizontally

2. Stairs spanning vertically

RCC Staircase Design

RCC Structures are nothing but reinforced concrete structures. RCC structure is composed of
building components such as Footings, Columns, Beams, Slabs, Staircase etc.

These components are reinforced with steel that give stability to the structure. Staircase is one
such important component in a RCC structure.
Dog Legged Stair | Staircase design

In this article, we will discuss different types of staircases and study the dog-legged reinforced
cement concrete staircase design.

Stairs

Stairs consist of steps arranged in a series for purpose of giving access to different floors of a
building. Since a stair is often the only means of communication between the various floors of a
building, the location of the stair requires good and careful consideration.

In a residential house, the staircase may be provided near the main entrance.

In a public building, the stairs must be from the main entrance itself and located centrally, to
provide quick accessibility to the principal apartments.

All staircases should be adequately lighted and properly ventilated.

Various types of Staircases

 Straight stairs

 Dog-legged stairs
  Open newel stair

 Geometrical stair

RCC Dog-legged Staircase design

In this type of staircase, the succeeding flights rise in opposite directions. The two flights in plan
are not separated by a well. A landing is provided corresponding to the level at which the
direction of the flight changes.

Procedure for Dog-legged Staircase design

Based on the direction along which a stair slab span, the stairs maybe classified into the
following two types.

1. Stairs spanning horizontally

2. Stairs spanning vertically

Stairs spanning horizontally

These stairs are supported at each side by walls. Stringer beams or at one side by wall or at the
other side by a beam.

Loads

 Dead load of a step = ½ x T x R x 25

 Dead load of waist slab = b x t x 25
 Live load = LL (KN/m2)
 Floor finish = assume 0.5 KN/m

Stairs spanning Longitudinally

In this, stairs spanning longitudinally, the beam is supported ay top and at the bottom of flights.

Loads

 Self weight of a step = 1 x R/2 x 25

 Self weight of waist slab = 1 x t x 25
 Self weight of plan = 1 x t x 25[(R2 + T2)/T]
 Live load = LL (KN/m2)
 Floor finish = assume 0.5 KN/m

For the efficient design of an RCC stair, we have to first analyse the various loads that are going
to be imposed on the stair.

The load calculations will help us determine, how much strength is required to carry the load.
The strength bearing capacity of a staircase is determined on the amount of steel and concrete
used.
The ratio of steel to concrete has to be as per standards. Steel in the staircase will take the tension
imposed on it and the concrete takes up the compression.

These are the essential steps that are to be followed for the RCC Stair Design.