ram concept

1. Jim Trenerry
MIEAust, CPEng
The Benefits of
Analysing Concrete
with FEM

2. 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.

3. The Benefits of Analysing Concrete with FEM

4. Traditionally,
engineers
using hand
calculations
or strip
programs
would design
the beams in
the previous
slide for 100%
of the load
…..

5. 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.

6. 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.