Jim TrenerryMIEAust, CPEng

The Benefits of Analysing Concrete

with FEM

The Benefits of Analysing Concrete with FEM

The only difference between these structures is one has “hard” supports at the 1st, 3rd and 5th grid line.

The deflection of the 600 mm deep band beams has a drastic effect on the behaviour of the 225 mm slab (see graphic on rhs). This would not be generally picked up with a 2D strip program.

The Benefits of Analysing Concrete with FEM

Traditionally, engineers using hand calculations

or strip programs

would design the beams in the previous

slide for 100% of the load

…..

The moment plot shows that the total

moment in the “middle strips” of this floor

accounts for 28% of the total panel

moment.

This will generally result in savings, as

minimum slab reinforcement is

usually sufficient, and the beam can be designed for less

moment.