SlabWorks Manual 1.07beta

SlabWorks 1.
07beta
User Manual
Design of Stiffened Slab-on-Grade
Foundations on Expansive Clay Soil
(Issued August 17, 2010. - Copyright Eric Green 2005-2007)

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta Table of Contents
Page ii Eric Green 2005-2010
END-USER LICENSE AGREEMENT
Use of the SlabWorks software is governed by the End User License
Agreement (EULA) that is included with the program.
Do not use the program without reading the EULA!
The EULA is provided in various forms, including PDF, DOC, HTML and RTF
formats. If you cannot find the EULA, or cannot read any of the provided
formats, contact the SlabWorks at slabworks@slabongrade.net and you will be
provided with a copy in an accessible format.
SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta Beta Software Warning
Page iii Eric Green 2005-2010
BETA SOFTWARE WARNING
This Software Product is an unfinished test version and not a commercial
product. It precedes the official General Availability (GA) version that will be
released to the general public. You acknowledge that the Software Product is
expected to have faults and errors, does not have guaranteed accuracy and
reliability, can be inherently unstable, is not yet fully tested or supported and
that its use is expected to result, from time to time, in "crashes" and loss of
business information. We recommend against use of this Software Product in a
commercial or production environment. Tester is advised not to rely exclusively
on the Software Product for any reason. Implementation of beta software should
be limited to experienced users only in a staging or test environment.
The Software Product is made available to participants in the Beta Test
Program to allow them to exercise the product release and help to locate issues
that can be addressed before the official release. Beta Testers receive pre-release
software and any related documentation and are in a position to influence
changes with their comments and suggestions. Eric Green grants you, an
individual user, the right to use this beta test version of the Software Product
solely for the purpose of testing and evaluating the software and providing
feedback on its design, features and faults to Eric Green.

Page iv Eric Green 2005-2010
Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction ................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Design Methods .......................................................................................... 1
1.2 Quick Start ................................................................................................. 3
1.3 Feedback ..................................................................................................... 3
2.0 Using SlabWorks ........................................................................................ 4
2.1 Installing and Configuring SlabWorks .................................................. 4
2.2 Quick Start ................................................................................................. 6
2.3 Explanation of Menu Items ..................................................................... 10
3.0 Registering SlabWorks ............................................................................ 12
3.1 Why Register? .......................................................................................... 12
3.2 How Do I Register?................................................................................... 12
3.3 Entering Registration Code ..................................................................... 13
3.4 Is SlabWorks Free or Public Domain? ................................................. 15
3.5 Program Support ...................................................................................... 15
4.0 General Design Issues ................................................................................. 16
4.1 Reinforcing ............................................................................................... 16
4.2 Design Methods ........................................................................................ 16
4.3 The Geotechnical Report .......................................................................... 16
Page v Eric Green 2005-2010
4.4 General Design Guidance ........................................................................ 17
4.4.1 General Fill ....................................................................................... 17
4.4.2 Select Structural Fill ........................................................................ 18
4.4.3 Impermeable Perimeter Cap ............................................................ 18
4.4.4 Beam Bearing .................................................................................... 19
4.4.5 Corners .............................................................................................. 19
4.4.6 Ground Penetration .......................................................................... 20
4.4.7 Drainage ............................................................................................ 20
4.4.8 Tree Removal .................................................................................... 20
4.4.9 Landscaping Beds ............................................................................. 20
4.4.10 Trees .................................................................................................. 21
4.4.11 Plumbing Trenches ........................................................................... 22
4.4.12 Slab Reinforcing ................................................................................ 22
5.0 BRAB Design Method .................................................................................. 24
5.1 Background .............................................................................................. 24
5.2 Design Methodology ................................................................................. 24
5.3 SlabWorks Implementation General ................................................ 27
5.4 SlabWorks Implementation - Bonded Reinforcement ......................... 28
5.5 SlabWorks Implementation - Post Tensioned Reinforcement ............ 29
Page vi Eric Green 2005-2010
5.6 Design Limitations ................................................................................... 30
5.6.1 General .............................................................................................. 30
6.0 WRI Method ................................................................................................. 31
6.1 Background .............................................................................................. 31
6.3 Effective PI ............................................................................................... 33
6.4 SlabWorks Implementation - General ................................................. 35
6.5 SlabWorks Implementation Bonded Reinforcement ........................ 36
6.6 SlabWorks Implementation - Post-Tensioned Reinforcement ............... 39
6.7 WRI Limitations ....................................................................................... 40
6.8 SlabWorks Limitations ......................................................................... 43
6.8.1 Shear.................................................................................................. 43
6.8.2 Deflection ........................................................................................... 43
7.0 PTI Analysis ................................................................................................. 44
7.1 Background .............................................................................................. 44
7.3 Changes from 2nd Edition to 3rd Edition ............................................... 45
7.4 Changes to 3rd Edition in Addendum No. 1 ........................................... 45
7.5 SlabWorks Implementation General ................................................ 47
Page vii Eric Green 2005-2010
7.6 SlabWorks Implementation Post-Tensioned Reinforcing ................ 47
7.7 SlabWorks Implementation Bonded PTI .......................................... 48
7.8 Design Limitations ................................................................................... 53
8.0 Input Mode ................................................................................................... 55
8.1 No Input Checking ................................................................................... 55
8.2 Input Tabs ................................................................................................ 55
Analysis Type Tab .............................................................................................. 57
8.3 Project Data Tab ...................................................................................... 59
8.4 Material Tab ............................................................................................. 60
8.5 Soils Tab ................................................................................................... 65
8.6 Post-Tensioning Tab ................................................................................ 69
8.7 Loads and Deflection Tab ........................................................................ 72
8.8 Bonded Reinforcement Tab...................................................................... 75
8.9 Bonded Reinforcement Options Tab ........................................................ 77
9.0 Output Mode ................................................................................................ 82
9.1 Print Setup ............................................................................................... 82
10.0 Moment of Inertia ........................................................................................ 84
10.1 Uncracked Moment of Inertia.................................................................. 84
10.2 Cracked Moment of Inertia ...................................................................... 84
Page viii Eric Green 2005-2010
10.3 Effective Moment of Inertia ..................................................................... 85
11.0 Verification and Validation ......................................................................... 86
12.0 Building Code Requirements ...................................................................... 87
12.1 International Building Code (2006)......................................................... 87
12.1.1 Foundation Design Requirements .................................................... 87
12.1.2 Drainage Requirements .................................................................... 88
12.2 International Residential Code (2003) .................................................... 88
12.3 ACI 318-02 Building Code Requirements for Reinforced Concrete .... 89
13.0 Texas Section ASCE .................................................................................... 90
13.1 Background .............................................................................................. 90
13.2 Design Process .......................................................................................... 90
13.3 Slab-On-Grade Design ............................................................................. 91
13.4 Slabs-on-Grade with Piers ....................................................................... 92

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta List of Figures
Page ix Eric Green 2005-2010
List of Figures
Figure 2-1 Archive Extraction Menu .................................................................... 4
Figure 2-2: Save File Location. ................................................................................ 5
Figure 2-3: Main Menu Bar. .................................................................................... 6
Figure 2-4: Main Input Screen................................................................................. 6
Figure 2-5: Save-As Screen. ..................................................................................... 8
Figure 2-6: Typical Output Screen. ......................................................................... 9
Figure 3-1: Start-up splash screen. ....................................................................... 14
Figure 3-2: Registration screen. ............................................................................. 14
Figure 4-1: Possible Bathtub Effect of Fill. ........................................................... 18
Figure 4-2: Solution to Bathtub Effect of Fill........................................................ 19
Figure 4-3: Effect of Improper Landscaping. ........................................................ 21
Figure 5-1: Design Rectangles. .............................................................................. 25
Figure 5-2: Limiting Cases of Support for BRAB Slab Analysis. ......................... 26
Figure 5-3: BRAB Limiting Cases ......................................................................... 26
Figure 5-4: BRAB Design Equations. .................................................................... 27
Figure 5-5: BRAB Effective Load in Long Direction. ............................................ 27
Figure 5-6: BRAB Design Equations for PT Slab. ................................................ 30
Figure 6-1: WRI Basic Cantilever Length. ............................................................ 32
SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta List of Figures
Page x Eric Green 2005-2010
Figure 6-2: WRI Cantilever Adjustment Factor. .................................................. 33
Figure 6-3: WRI Design Equations. ....................................................................... 33
Figure 6-4: Over-Consolidation Coefficient ........................................................... 34
Figure 6-5: Slope of Natural Ground vs. Slope Correction Coefficient ................ 34
Figure 6-6: Effective Moment of Inertia ................................................................ 36
Figure 6-7: WRI Deflection Equations for PT Reinforcing. .................................. 39
Figure 6-8: WRI Design Equations for PT Reinforcing......................................... 40
Figure 7-1: WRI Design Equations for PT Reinforcing......................................... 51
Figure 7-2: Effective Moment of Inertia ................................................................ 51
Figure 8-1: Analysis Type Input Tab. .................................................................... 57
Figure 8-2: Project Data Input Tab. ...................................................................... 59
Figure 8-3: Material Data Input Tab..................................................................... 60
Figure 8-4: Geometry Data Input Tab. .................................................................. 62
Figure 8-5: Soil Data Input Tab. ............................................................................ 65
Figure 8-6: Post-Tensioning Data Input Tab. ....................................................... 69
Figure 8-7: Loads and Deflection Data Input Tab. ............................................... 72
Figure 8-8: Bonded Reinforcement Data Input Tab. ............................................ 75
Figure 8-9: Bonded Reinforcement Options Input Tab......................................... 77
Figure 9-1: Font Selection. ..................................................................................... 82
SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta List of Appendices
Page xi Eric Green 2005-2010
List of Appendices
Appendix 1 BRAB Climatic Rating, Cw.
Appendix 2 BRAB Support Index, C.

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 1.0 Introduction
Page 1 of 95 Eric Green 2005-2010
1.0 Introduction
Welcome to SlabWorks, a software program for the analysis and design of
slab-on-grade foundations built on expansive and compressible soils.
SlabWorks implements all of the generally accepted foundation design
methods for slabs on expansive clay, including the PTI, WRI and BRAB design
methods. In addition, SlabWorks includes enhancements to the original design
methods, such as the design of foundations with bonded reinforcement using the
PTI design equations, and design of Post-Tensioned foundations using BRAB
and WRI design criteria.
SlabWorks is intended to assist the practicing profession structural engineer
design slabs-on-grade more efficiently, and to allow rapid examination of various
design options. This program is only authorized for use by and distributed to
licensed professional engineers. Any other use of this program is a violation of
the license agreement. To use all the features of the program, your version must
be registered, which is currently free of charge for qualified individuals.
While this program may be distributed free of charge by the author, it is not
public domain, and the copyright to the program remains the property of Eric
Green. You may not distribute this software or your registration number to other
users under any circumstances. Distribution of the software by anyone other
than Eric Green is a violation of Federal copyright law.
1.1 Design Methods
There are three generally recognized methods for the design of slabs-on-grade for
expansive soil. All three methods provide design equations to provide design
forces (shear and moment) and deflections. Some of the methods also provide
guidance on designing foundations to resist the calculated forces and limit
deflections. SlabWorks implements all three methods.
PTI Analysis - This method is based on a set of equations derived by
regression analysis. The regression analysis was performed on the results
of a parametric finite element analysis of slabs on expansive soil that
considered different slab geometries, slab loads and soil parameters This
method considers both edge lift and center lift soil movement modes. The
manual provides explicit design guidance for post-tensioned foundations,
but acknowledges that the methods may also be used for the design of
foundations with bonded reinforcement.
BRAB Analysis - This method is based on an effective cantilever length
that is based on climate and plasticity index. The cantilever length is
assumed to increase linearly with slab length. This method considers both
edge lift and center lift soil movement modes, but derives one common set
of equations to provide design forces and deflections for both modes. The
BRAB manual provide explicit design guidance only for foundation
reinforced with bonded reinforcement. Post-tensioned foundations are not
discussed.
WRI Analysis - This method is a modification of the BRAB method. It
assumes that cantilever length is primarily a function of plasticity index
and climate, and only loosely related to slab length. This method considers
both edge lift and center lift soil movement modes, but derives one
common set of equations to provide design forces and deflections for both
modes. The WRI manual indicates the method can be used to design
foundations reinforced with either post-tension and bonded reinforcement.
However, the manual does not give explicit design guidance for either
reinforcing system.
1.2 Quick Start
Running an analysis in SlabWorks consists of three steps:
Input. Analysis data is input through the input menu. Input information
generally consists of foundation geometry, loads, reinforcing and soil
parameters.
Analysis. The analysis is run through the analysis menu.
Output. Output is automatically displayed after the analysis is run.
Output generally consists of allowable vs. actual moments, shears and
deflections. If the results are satisfactory to the design engineer, the
results can be printed for a permanent record. If the results are not
satisfactory, the engineer can return to the input menu to modify the
design.
1.3 Feedback
At SlabWorks, we appreciate feedback. Complaints, complements and
suggestions will be accepted equally. We can be reached at
slabworks@slabongrade.net. Include the word SlabWorks in your subject line
or your email will be ignored (we receive hundreds of spam e-mails a week). We
regret that we cannot offer direct user support at this time. We are considering
opening a web-based discussion board to provide user support. Let us know if
you would be interested in this type of forum

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 2.0 Using SlabWorks
2.0 Using SlabWorks
Running a SlabWorks analysis is as simple as inputting the appropriate
design data at the Input menu, then running the analysis at the Analyze
menu. Output is displayed automatically after the analysis is complete. Existing
files can be opened through the File menu.
2.1 Installing and Configuring SlabWorks
SlabWorks is supplied as a compressed self-extracting archive file named
SW_Install.exe. Run this program to decompress the install files. By default, this
archive will decompress the install files at its current location (For example, if
the archive is located on the desktop, the install files will be decompressed onto
the desktop). When the self-extracting file is run, an option window will open
that allows you to select an alternate location for the install files. This is done by
clicking on the Browse button and selecting the alternate location.

Figure 2-1 Archive Extraction Menu
Click on the Unzip button to decompress the install files. The compressed
archive file contains two files, setup.exe and SlabWorkscab. Run the program
Setup.exe and follow the on-screen directions for installation. Once the
installation is complete, the temporary install files Setup.exe and
SlabWorks.cab may be deleted.
Run the SlabWorks program from the start menu at Start-Programs-
SlabWorks or directly by running the SlabWorks.exe in the install directory.
This directory is /Program Files/SlabWorks unless changed by the user during
installation.
If you have obtained a registration code, it should be entered when the program
is first started. Directions for obtaining a registration Code can be obtained at
Chapter 3.2 How Do I Register? on Page 12, while directions for entering the
code can be obtained at Chapter3.3 Entering Registration Code on Page 13.
The first time you run the program, you must configure two program options for
proper operation. First, set the default location where you would like data files
to be stored. This can be over-ridden when saving files if desired. Setting this
option is done at the Help-Options-Save File menu. Select the save file
location from the menu and click OK .

Figure 2-2: Save File Location.
Second, the printer font must be selected. Setting the printer font and printing is
discussed in Chapter 9.1 on page 82.
2.2 Quick Start
Click the Input menu in order to enter the input mode:

Figure 2-3: Main Menu Bar.
The tabbed input screen will appear. The Analysis Type tab will always be the
first tab shown:

Figure 2-4: Main Input Screen
Using the options buttons on the Analysis Tab, select the analysis type,
foundation type, slab type and soil type. The options selected on this tab will
control the inputs that are available on the remaining input tabs. For example, if
the user selects Bonded Reinforcing, the inputs for a post-tensioned
foundation design will not be available.
After selecting the appropriate options from the Analysis Tab, click through the
remaining tabs and input the appropriate design information. Tabs are selected
by clicking the mouse on the tab. An in-depth discussion of the various input
fields found on each tab is found in Chapter 8.0 at page 55.
After all design data in input, click the OK button at the bottom of the input to
exit the input mode. If you click the Cancel button, all of the input data will be
lost.
After exiting the input mode, click on the File menu and then the Save
submenu in order to save the input data. To save data that has been modified
from a previous run under a new name, click the Save As submenu.

Figure 2-5: Save-As Screen.
Click in the File Name text box and type in the desired file name. Click Save .
After saving your file, the analysis can be run by clicking the Analysis menu
When you run an analysis, SlabWorks checks to ensure that all required
variables were input during the input phase. If any required variables were not
input, you will be directed to the empty input field when attempting to analyze
the design. SlabWorks does not check the input values to ensure they are
within a reasonable range. Remember: Garbage In Garbage Out.
If all required variables are input, the program will run the analysis and the
results are automatically displayed in the Analysis Results window. The
Analysis Results window is customized depending on the type of analysis being
run (PTI, BRAB or WRI and Post-Tensioned or Bonded Reinforcing) and
contains three to five tabs containing the results.
The first two to four tabs contain the results of most design checks performed in
the SlabWorks analysis. The design checks are generally displayed as the
allowed (or required) value, actual value and percent allowable (or percent
required). If the percent allowable (or percent required) in unacceptable, the
results are displayed in red as shown below.

Figure 2-6: Typical Output Screen.
The last tab on the Output window is labeled Warnings. This tab lists all failed
design checks, plus warnings. Warnings are design checks that do not explicitly
violate the design code, but should be reviewed for approval by the design
engineer. An example of this would be a beam that is under-reinforced according
to ACI-318 code requirements. Design codes for slab-on-grade foundations do not
explicitly require minimum steel. Thus, the design engineer must decide if
minimum steel requirements are required for the design.
2.3 Explanation of Menu Items
This section provides a brief overview of the function of all menu items.
File Menu
The file menu is used to load and save project files, and to exit the program.
File New
This menu clears all input fields.
File Open
This menu is used to select a previously saved file
File Save
This menu saves the current project under the current file name. If a file
name has not already been selected (the project is new), the user is required
to provide a file name prior to saving.
File - Save As
This menu saves the current project file under a new name. This is most
commonly used to save a copy of an existing project prior to making
modifications, in order that the original file if left unchanged.
File Exit
Exit SlabWorks
Analysis Menu
The menu starts the SlabWorks analysis of foundation. The output screen
is automatically displayed upon successful analysis. Printed output is
accessed from the output screen.
Help
The help menu is used to view the current registration and program version
number, and to set various program options.
Help Options
The user can select the default file-save location and the default printer from
this menu.
Help - About
This menu displays the version number of SlabWorks and the current
registration (User Name, Company, PE number and PE registration state
and SlabWorks key).

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 3.0 Registering SlabWorks
3.0 Registering SlabWorks
3.1 Why Register?
Without a valid registration key, SlabWorks is fully functional except for the
length and width of the slab, which are fixed. Therefore, the program cannot be
used for design or analysis unless a registered version is obtained.
Registration is required in order that updated version of the software can
distributed to end users in the event that critical bugs or errors in the software
are found. Without registration, there is no way to insure that all users of the
program are notified.
3.2 How Do I Register?
There is currently no charge for registration. This may change in the future, and
updated versions may require the purchase of a license. The registered version of
SlabWorks is only available to licensed professional engineers (civil, structural
or geotechnical). SlabWorks is currently registered only to engineers, not
companies. Two methods of registration are available, e-mail and regular mail:
By e-mail: To register, you must send an e-mail to
SlabWorks@slabongrade.net. The subject must line of the e-mail
must read SLABWORKS REGISTRATION. In the body of the
e-mail includes only your name (First and Last), state of
registration, company name and PE number. We will only respond
to e-mails from the domain associated with the company that is
listed as your employer with the appropriate state board of
registration. For example, if the state board lists your employer as
XYZengineering, will we respond to e-mail from
Bob.Jones@XYZengineering, but will not respond to
Bob.Jones@msn.com. If you do not have an email address
associated with your companys domain name, or if the employer
listed with the state board is incorrect, you will not be able to
register the program by e-mail. Be prepared to wait as long as 3
weeks to obtain a registration code.
By regular mail: We will mail a registration code for the program
to the address listed with the state board of registration for the
associated PE number if a self-addressed, stamped envelope and a
letter containing your name (First and Last), company name, state
of registration, PE number and e-mail address is sent to:
Eric Green
6306 Oakburl Lane
Sugar Land, Texas 77479
The return address must be the same as the company address listed
with the state board of registration. Be prepared to wait as long as
4 weeks to obtain a registration code. If the address listed with the
state board is incorrect, you will not be able to register the program
using this method.
3.3 Entering Registration Code
Once you have obtained a registration code, register the program at the startup
splash screen by clicking on the Register button.

Figure 3-1: Start-up splash screen.
Enter the information in the registrations screen exactly as supplied and click on
the OK button. This information is case sensitive. The program will tell you if
the registration attempt was successful or unsuccessful. If the attempt was
unsuccessful, return to the registration screen by clicking the Register button
a second time and make sure the information entered is correct.

Figure 3-2: Registration screen.
3.4 Is SlabWorks Free or Public Domain?
No. While SlabWorks may be distributed to certain individuals without
charge, it is a copyrighted program, and all rights are reserved by the author,
Eric Green. You may not distribute your registration code or the program to
anyone else. To do so is a violation of Federal Copyright Law.
3.5 Program Support
Currently, the sole source of support for SlabWorks is this user manual and
the FAQ page on the SlabWorks website (www.slabongrade.net). No direct
support is available. A user forum (discussion board) is currently being
considered. Let us know if you would be interested in participating (or
moderating) as discussion board.
If you have questions or comments about the operation of SlabWorks, drop us
an e-mail at support@slabongrade.net. We will read your e-mail, and if
appropriate, will address your comments/questions in the next version of the
manual and/or in the website FAQ.

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 4.0 General Design Issues
4.0 General Design Issues
4.1 Reinforcing
Three reinforcing options exist for the design of slabs-on-grade. These are
bonded reinforcing (conventional reinforcing), post-tensioning and hybrid
systems combining post-tensioning and bonded reinforcing. Any of these systems
can produce acceptable performance if properly design and constructed.
4.2 Design Methods
There are three generally accepted design methods available for the design of
slab-on-grade foundations on expansive clay. These are:
BRAB
WRI/CRSI
PTI
With modification, any of the three methods can be used to design either
stiffened or uniform thickness slabs using post-tension reinforcement or
conventional bonded reinforcement.
4.3 The Geotechnical Report
The design engineer should obtain a geotechnical report prior to designing a
foundation on expansive clay. The geotechnical report should contain:
1. Recommendations for foundation system type. The geotechnical engineer
should indicate if the site is appropriate for stiffened slab-on-grade
construction. The report should differentiate between compliant slabs-on-
grade (where the superstructure loads are carried by a deep foundations such
as piers and the interior thin slab simply forms a barrier between the interior
and subgrade) and stiffened slabs-on-grade where is slab is free floating and
superstructure distress is limited by the stiffness of the foundation.
2. Fill requirements. The geotechnical engineer should clearly indicate if fill is
required for slab-on-grade construction. Fill properties and required
compaction should be specified.
3. Expected movement. The geotechnical engineer should indicate the potential
vertical movement at the site for both heave and settlement conditions.
4. Soil related foundation design parameters. The geotechnical report should
contain all soil design parameters required to design the foundation.
5. Effect of existing vegetation. The geotechnical engineer should discuss the
effect of removing existing vegetation.
4.4 General Design Guidance
When implementing one of the recognized foundation design methodologies (PTI,
BRAB or WRI), there are design considerations that are not discussed in these
design guidelines. Some of these design considerations include:
4.4.1 General Fill
In many developments, uncontrolled fill is placed over large areas, commonly
resulting from the excavation of roadbeds and general grading for site drainage.
This may occur several years before construction of buildings is started. The
foundation engineer must ensure that uncontrolled fill has not been placed on
the lot, or that the uncontrolled fill has been accounted for in the design. This
could be done be removing and replacing the uncontrolled fill, or perhaps
ensuring that the grade beams bear on undisturbed soil.
4.4.2 Select Structural Fill
Select structural fill can be used to reduce the amount of potential vertical
movement. If select fill is used, care must be taken to ensure the fill is properly
compacted and meets the requirements for select fill. This normally requires the
services of a geotechnical testing firm. Consider testing the physical properties of
the fill (such as PI and LL) after the fill is placed to ensure compliance with
specifications.
4.4.3 Impermeable Perimeter Cap
Movement of water into and out of the soil under the slab is the primary cause of
foundation movement. When the slab is built on select fill, the problem is
exacerbated because the select fill frequently extends outside of the building
perimeter and is relatively permeable compared to the native soils. This can
result in the select fill acting as a bathtub, exposing the underlying expansive
clay to large amounts of water (Figure 4-1).

Figure 4-1: Possible Bathtub Effect of Fill.
The solution to this problem is to install an impermeable cap of fat clay around
the perimeter of the building. Ensure that this cap provides proper drainage
away from the foundation (Figure 4-2).

Figure 4-2: Solution to Bathtub Effect of Fill.
4.4.4 Beam Bearing
Good practice indicates that the beams should bear on undisturbed native soils
or compacted structural fill. Foundations that are cast on improperly compacted
fill will experience differential settlement resulting from consolidation of the fill.
4.4.5 Corners
All three design methods treat the slab as a one-way system. However, at the
foundation corners, a biaxial state of bending occurs. In slabs with widely spaced
beams, the point of maximum moment at the corner may not cross a beam.
Additional beams or a diagonal beam running to the corner to the first beam
intersection should be considered in these areas.
4.4.6 Ground Penetration
The perimeter grade beam also serves as a vertical moisture barrier. The deeper
the grade beam penetrates into the soil, the more effective it will be in
stabilizing the soil moisture. At least a foot of penetration is generally
recommended.
4.4.7 Drainage
Proper drainage away from the foundation is important to maintain constant
soil moisture. The minimum slope that is generally accepted is 5% within 10 feet
of the building perimeter. This drainage must be established using impermeable
fill. The engineer should verify that local drainage is being taken care of by the
civil or landscape architects. If this is not the case, proper drainage must be
ensured on the structural drawings.
4.4.8 Tree Removal
Trees significantly alter the soil moisture balance of the soil, reducing the
equilibrium soil moisture in their vicinity. If a foundation is constructed over an
area where a tree was recently removed, the soil will gain moisture over time
and heave after the foundation is constructed. This effect is increased if the tree
is removed during a dry period and construction is started soon after the tree is
removed.
4.4.9 Landscaping Beds
Improperly constructed planting beds can result in saturated soil around the
perimeter of the building, even when the soil surface nominally has positive
drainage away fro the building (Figure 4-3). This problem is exacerbates if the
building is constructed on select fill extending under the planting beds. IN this
case, improperly constructed planting beds can act to inject water directly into
the select fill (Figure 4-1).
The engineer should discuss landscaping expectations with the architect/owner
to ensure that the effect of landscaping on the structure is fully understood.
Ideally, no planting beds will be located near the structure. However, this is
rarely possible. One solution is to line the bottom of the planting beds with a
moisture barrier or layer of impermeable fat clay. However, design of the
landscaping is outside of the scope of services of the structural engineer, and is
the responsibility of the landscape architect or owner.

Figure 4-3: Effect of Improper Landscaping.
4.4.10 Trees
Trees planted near a foundation can upset the soil moisture balance due to the
water demand of mature trees, especially during drought cycles. While it may
take a number of years before the tree gets large enough to cause structural
damage, this will eventually occur if the tree is close enough to the slab. In
general, the distance from the tree to the foundation must be at least half the
height of the tree, but the required distance varies with tree species.
The engineer should consider discussing landscaping expectations with the
owner and/or architect. If landscaping requirements dictates that trees must be
planted near the foundation, the engineer can recommend over-designing the
foundation to account for the effect of trees.
4.4.11 Plumbing Trenches
Plumbing trenches should be backfilled with compacted select fill in order to
prevent entry of moisture under the slab through void space in the trench
backfill material. Trenches should never be backfilled with sand of granular
materials. Consider requiring the use of a fat clay plug at the building
perimeter.
4.4.12 Slab Reinforcing
Overall structural performance of stiffened slabs is generally independent of the
performance of the thin slab in the areas between beams. This portion of the
foundation slab is generally intended only to acts as a separator between the
building and the soil below. However, if thermal or shrinkage cracking is noted
in these areas, many owners will perceive the foundation is in a failed state. This
is particularly important if the owner anticipates the use of tile or stone finishes.
Therefore, performance expectations with respect to slab cracking should be
discussed with the owner and architect prior to design.
In the past, many engineers have relied on the minimum temperature and
shrinkage steel requirements from ACI-318 (0.18% steel). These guidelines are
intended for elevated structural slab and are not applicable to slabs-on-grade.
This is discussed in the commentary to the latest version of ACI-318.
The engineer should instead refer to ACI 224 Control of Cracking for guidance
on controlling cracking of slabs-on-grade. Generally, cracking in stiffened slabs
is controlled with bonded reinforcement, and control joints are not used.
According to ACI 224, 0.50%-0.60% steel is required to control cracking with
steel alone. Control joints can be installed, with the control joints located mid-
way between the stiffening beams. Control joints near beams will not be effective
because the beams restrain the concrete from movement.

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 5.0 BRAB Design Method
5.0 BRAB Design Method
5.1 Background
The BRAB analysis is performed in accordance with the design methodology
presented in Criteria for Selection and Design of Residential Slabs-on-Ground
prepared for the Federal Housing Administration by the Building Research
Advisory Board in 1968 (referred to in this manual at the BRAB Report). The
Building Research Advisory Board was a Special Advisory Committee of the
Division of Engineering of the National Research Council. We recommend that
engineers wanting to design using this method obtain and read the full text of
the BRAB Report as it contains additional limitations, design requirements and
background information not discussed in this manual. The BRAB Report may be
obtained from the National Institute of Standards and Technology or the
National Academies Press at http://www.nap.edu.
5.2 Design Methodology
Similar to the other three design methods implemented in SlabWorks, the
BRAB method is at it simplest level a method of predicting the maximum
moment, shear and deflection occurring in a slab-on-grade. Once these values
are established, the actual design of the beams is conventional and will not be
unfamiliar to anyone who has performed conventional reinforced concrete beam
design.
In the BRAB method, the foundation is designed in the following steps
Determine dead and live loads
Divide slab into overlapping rectangles (Figure 5-1: Design
Rectangles.Figure 5-1).
Calculate imposed shear and moment in slab using BRAB equations.
Select trial geometry (beam depth, width, spacing and reinforcement)
Check allowable moment and shear against imposed moment and shear.
Check actual deflection against allowable deflection.

Figure 5-1: Design Rectangles.
The BRAB report determines moments, shears and deflections in the slab by
assuming that the slab is only partially supported by the underlying soils. The
soil is assumed to be rigid in the areas of support (inelastic support conditions).
Two design conditions are considered, loss of support at the edges (center
lift/edge settlement) and loss of support at the interior (edge lift/center
settlement) (Figure 5-2).
The amount of slab support provided by the underlying soil is called the support
index, C, and is defined as the fraction of the foundation that is supported by the
soil. The support index is a function of the climatic rating (CW) and the effective
plasticity index of the soil (PIE). The higher the plasticity index, the higher the
potential for soil movement and the less support considered in the analysis. The
chart for determining the support index as a function of CW and PIE is shown in
Appendix 2.

Figure 5-2: Limiting Cases of Support for BRAB Slab Analysis.
Once the support index is found, moment, shear and deflection are found as
shown in Figure 5-3.

Figure 5-3: BRAB Limiting Cases
The BRAB report makes certain simplifying assumptions in order to reduce the
two load cases to one set of design equations for shear, moment and deflection.
Additionally, certain assumptions are made that reduce the uniform load in the
long direction relative to the short direction. Once these simplifications and
modifications are made, the actual design equations for shear, moment and
deflection are shown in Figure 5-4.

Figure 5-4: BRAB Design Equations.
The w in these equations in the effective uniform load (wE). In the short
directions, w is equal to wE. In the long direction, the effective load is calculated
using the equation in Figure 5-5.
5 . 0 4 . 0 4 . 1
|
|
\
|
|
|
\
|
=
S
L
E
L
L
w w
Figure 5-5: BRAB Effective Load in Long Direction.
5.3 SlabWorks Implementation General
Several factors regarding the BRAB design method and the SlabWorks
implementation must be considered by the design engineer when performing a
BRAB design analysis. Important considerations include:
1. SlabWorks implements only the Type III BRAB foundation, which is
defined as reinforced and stiffened.
2. The BRAB manual contains recommendation for the allowable deflection
based on the superstructure type. Recommended deflection limits are:
Superstructure Type
Maximum Permissible
Deflection Ratio (/L)
Wood 1/200
Unplastered masonry or gypsum wallboard 1/300
Stucco or plaster 1/360
3. Tilting of the superstructure is not a design criterion in the BRAB method.
4. Deflection is calculated based on the creep modulus of concrete, which is
assumed to be 1.5x10
6
psi.
5. BRAB modifications suggested by the Texas Section of the ASCE must be
manually implemented by the user, as they are not automatically
implemented by SlabWorks. Suggested modifications by TxASCE include:
5.1. Regardless of actual beam length, the analysis length shall be limited to
50 feet.
5.2. Use the maximum long-term creep factor as provided in ACI 318.
5.4 SlabWorks Implementation - Bonded Reinforcement
SlabWorks does not make any modifications of the BRAB method when
analyzing slabs with bonded reinforcing. However, the user should be aware of
the following assumptions made in the BRAB design method related to the
design of foundations with bonded reinforcement:
1. Concrete design in the BRAB method is done using working stress design.
1.1. An assumed internal moment arm length to beam depth of 0.865 is
used.
1.2. Allowable shear strength of concrete is assumed to be 75 psi.
2. Deflections are calculated using the fully cracked moment of inertia.
3. Compression steel is ignored in calculating the cracked moment of inertia
and moment capacity.
4. Effective PI must be calculated using method presented on page 65 of the
BRAB manual.
5.5 SlabWorks Implementation - Post Tensioned Reinforcement
The BRAB report considers only the design of slabs with bonded reinforcement.
However, once design moments and shears are calculated using the BRAB
design equations, the slab can be designed using post-tensioned reinforcing.
SlabWorks makes the following modifications to the BRAB design method
when performing analysis of post-tensioned foundations:
1. Design forces Mdesign, Vdesign and design are determined using the equations
presented in the BRAB report (Figure 5-4). Deflection is calculated using the
uncracked moment of inertia.
2. Mallow and Vallow for the center lift and edge lift modes are determined using
the formula in the PTI design manual (Figure 5-6).
3. Post-tensioning forces act to decreases of increases deflection depending on
the eccentricity of the resultant post-tensioning force (above or below the
neutral axis). However, SlabWorks ignores the effect of post-tensioning
force on deflection in the BRAB analysis. This is done because the BRAB
equations calculate an equivalent deflection based on the full slab length.
Therefore, including the effects of post-tensioning would result in an
overestimation of the effect of post-tensioning force on deflection, as the
actual cantilever is significantly shorter than the full slab length.
Allowable defection

( )
uncracked
I E
L L C
L

48
1
' 3

PT Allowable Stress:

A
P
f f
f d UserDefine f
f f
r
C v
C t
C C
+

2 . 0 7 . 1
45 . 0
'
'
'

PT Design Stress (edge lift)

beams
v
r
t
r
c
r
t
r
t
A
V
f
e
P
S
M
A
P
f
e
P
S
M
A
P
f
max
max
max
=
+ + =
=

PT Design Stress (center lift)

beams
v
r
t
r
c
r
t
r
t
A
V
f
e
P
S
M
A
P
f
e
P
S
M
A
P
f
max
max
max
=
+ =
+ =

Figure 5-6: BRAB Design Equations for PT Slab.
5.6 Design Limitations
5.6.1 General
There are no known limitations for the use of the BRAB design method, or the
SlabWorks implementation of the BRAB design method.

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 6.0 WRI Method
6.0 WRI Method
6.1 Background
WRI analysis and design is performed in accordance with the design
methodology presented in Design of Slab-On-Ground Foundations - A Design,
Construction & Inspection Aid for Consulting Engineers, prepared by Donald
Snowden for the Wire Reinforcement Institute and the Concrete Reinforcing
Steel Institute. This guide was first published in 1981. An update was published
in 1996. The update did not change the design method in any material fashion.
The document is available for free at http://www.wirereinforcementinstitute.org.
The WRI method is a variation of the BRAB design method, and uses the same
support index and assumed support conditions presented in the BRAB report.
The major modification is the use of a cantilever length adjustment factor and
the use of the cantilever lengths to directly calculate shear, moment and
deflection.
Similar to the other three design methods implemented in SlabWorks, the
WRI manual provides a method of predicting the maximum moment, shear and
deflection occurring in a slab-on-grade. However, diverging from the other design
manuals, the WRI manual does not provide any design guidance beyond
development of design loads and deflections. For example, the manual does not
define a maximum allowable deflection (although L/480 is suggested), does not
define maximum beam spacing and does not define minimum steel ratios.
Similar to the BRAB report, the WRI method determines moments, shears and
deflections in the slab by assuming that the slab is partially supported by the
underlying soils. The soil is assumed to be rigid in the areas of support (inelastic
support conditions), and the interface is assumed to transfer both tensile and
compressive stresses. Two design conditions are considered (Figure 5-2), loss of
support at the edges (center lift/edge settlement) and loss of support at the
interior (edge lift/center settlement).
The design cantilever used by WRI is based on the same support index used by
BRAB (Appendix 2). The support index is a function of the climatic rating and
the effective plasticity index of the soil. However, in the WRI method the support
index directly establish the cantilever length independent of slab length.
Therefore, the WRI method predicts larger cantilevers in short slabs and shorter
cantilevers in long slabs relative to the BRAB method.

Figure 6-1: WRI Basic Cantilever Length.
The cantilever length is then reduced by a factor K, which is based solely on slab
length. This allows for a shorter cantilever length as the slab length decreases.

Figure 6-2: WRI Cantilever Adjustment Factor.
Once the support index is found, the design moment, shear and deflection are
found as:

Figure 6-3: WRI Design Equations.
6.3 Effective PI
In the WRI design method, the effective PI is first calculated as a weighted,
effective PI using the BRAB methodology (Page 65 of the BRAB manual). The
Effective PI is then modified by two correction factors, an over-consolidation
coefficient (Figure 6-4) and a slope correction factor (Figure 6-5).
The derivation of these correction factors is not discussed in the WRI manual. If
the user wishes for these adjustment factors to be ignored in the analysis, an
unconfined compressive strength of 6000 psi and a slope of 0% should be
entered. This provides coefficients of 1.0 for both correction factors.

Figure 6-4: Over-Consolidation Coefficient

Figure 6-5: Slope of Natural Ground vs. Slope Correction Coefficient
6.4 SlabWorks Implementation - General
Several factors regarding the WRI design method and the SlabWorks
implementation must be considered by the design engineer when performing a
BRAB design analysis. Important design considerations that are applicable to
both bonded and post-tensioned reinforcement include:
1. Texas ASCE Modifications If selected by the user, SlabWorks implements
the modifications suggested by the Texas Section of the ASCE. These
modifications include:
1.1. Regardless of actual beam length, the analysis length is limited to 50
feet. This has the effect of capping the maximum cantilever length.
1.2. The minimum design length LC is increased by a factor of 1.5 with a
minimum design length of 6 feet

2. WRI/BRAB Cantilever The program can make calculations using cantilever
lengths calculated using the BRAB method or the WRI method. Generally
speaking, the BRAB method will provide shorter cantilevers in small
foundations and longer cantilevers in large foundations relative to the WRI
method.

3. Soil Bearing Strength SlabWorks checks soil bearing based on the
projected area of the grade beams.
4. The WRI manual recommends an allowable deflection of 1/480 regardless of
superstructure type.
6.5 SlabWorks Implementation Bonded Reinforcement
For bonded reinforcing, design of the foundation generally proceeds using
conventional reinforced concrete ultimate strength design methods in accordance
with ACI-318. However, the SlabWorks implementation provides several
options not included in the WRI Manual. Factors regarding the WRI design
method and the SlabWorks implementation that must be considered by the
design engineer include:
1. Effective/Cracked Moment The program automatically calculates deflection
in both the cracked and uncracked conditions. When calculating the cracked
deflection, SlabWorks allows the use of the fully cracked or effective
moment of inertia (per ACI-318). The effective moment is equal to:
cr
a
cr
g
a
cr
e
I
M
M
I
M
M
I
(
(
|
|
\
|
+ +
|
|
\
|
=
3 3
1
Figure 6-6: Effective Moment of Inertia

2. Compression Steel The WRI manual is silent in regards to consideration of
compression steel in calculating bending strength. If selected by the user,
SlabWorks will include compression steel in bending strength calculations.
Including compression steel can make a significant difference in the cracked
moment of inertia.

3. Compression Steel and Cracked Moment of Inertia - The WRI manual is
silent in regards to consideration of reinforcing steel in calculating the
moment of inertia. By default, SlabWorks considers the compression steel
in calculating the moment of inertia. Tension steel is always included in
calculating the cracked moment of inertia, as the cracked moment would
otherwise be zero.
4. Reinforcing Steel and Uncracked Moment of Inertia - By default,
SlabWorks considers both the tension and compression steel in calculating
the uncracked moment of inertia.

5. Slab Reinforcing - If selected by the user, SlabWorks will include slab
reinforcing when calculating the uncracked moment of inertia, cracked
moment of inertia and bending strength. Slab steel will be transformed in
cracked and uncracked moment of inertia calculations only if the appropriate
check-boxes are unselected (see 3 and 4 above). Slab steel will be included in
the bending strength calculations as compressions steel only if the
appropriate check boxes are unselected (see 2 above).
Only the portions of the slab steel in the effective flange width is included in
the appropriate calculation. If the user chooses to ignore beam flanges (see 6
below), including slab steel in the calculations will not have a significant
effect in the bending strength of moment of inertia unless the slab is heavily
reinforced.

6. Include Flanges in Bending StrengthSlabWorks will calculate bending
strength and deflection of the slab by considering the contribution of the
beams alone (ignoring the slab per BRAB), or will include the contribution of
the effective flange per ACI-318 recommendations. Slab steel in the flanges is
considered as compression and tension reinforcing steel if the appropriate
check boxes are selected.

7. Factored/Service Loads SlabWorks can calculate deflection and strength
using factored or service loads. Strength calculations are normally done using
factored loads and deflections are normally calculated using service loads.
The PTI load factor is only used for PTI design using bonded reinforcement,
and is not applicable to WRI analysis.

6.6 SlabWorks Implementation - Post-Tensioned Reinforcement
In its design examples, the WRI manual considers only bonded reinforcement.
However, the method is also applicable to post-tensioned foundation, and the
manual includes a formula to estimate the required beam depth for a post-
tensioned slab-on-grade. The formulas for design moment, design shear and
deflections are independent of foundation reinforcement type.
Factors regarding the WRI design method and the SlabWorks implementation
which must be considered by the design engineer when analyzing a post-
tensioned foundation include:
1. Mdesign and Vdesign are calculated using the equations provided in the WRI
report (Figure 6-3 on page 33).
2. Once design moments and shears are calculated using the WRI design
equations, analysis of the post-tensioned slab generally follows the methods
presented in the PTI manual for design of the post-tensioned stiffened slab
with the listed exceptions:
2.1. The effect of compression and tension steel, if present, is not
considered in calculating the moment of inertial.
2.2. The calculation of deflection uses the WRI formula but includes the
effect of post-tensioning forces per the PTI method.
I E
e P
I E
L L
C
e
C
C
CL

=
2 4
2 ' 4

I E
e P
I E
L L
C
e
C
C
EL

+

=
2 4
2 ' 4

Figure 6-7: WRI Deflection Equations for PT Reinforcing.
2.3. Mallow and Vallow for the center lift and edge lift modes are determined
using the design formulas in the PTI design manual.
PT Allowable Stress:

A
P
f f
f d UserDefine f
f f
r
C v
C t
C C
+

2 . 0 7 . 1
45 . 0
'
'
'

PT Design Stress (edge lift)

beams
v
r
t
r
c
r
t
r
t
A
V
f
e
P
S
M
A
P
f
e
P
S
M
A
P
f
max
max
max
=
+ + =
=

PT Design Stress (center lift)

beams
v
r
t
r
c
r
t
r
t
A
V
f
e
P
S
M
A
P
f
e
P
S
M
A
P
f
max
max
max
=
+ =
+ =

Figure 6-8: WRI Design Equations for PT Reinforcing.
6.7 WRI Limitations
Several limitations and cautions must be considered by engineers using the WRI
design methods. These include:
1. The WRI method is a modification of the BRAB method. It is important to
note that the WRI method is empirically derived from the experience of Mr.
Snowden. As noted in the forward to the 1981 report:
This procedure was developed by Walter L. Snowden, P.E.,
Consulting Engineer, of Austin, Texas, over a period of 15 years. It is
empirically derived by observing slab perforce and writing or
modifying equations to give results which approximate the
foundations which had been found to give satisfactory results.
2. The WRI manual includes the statement
Variations from the BRAB Report #33 were developed to maintain a
reasonable ratio between the cost of the slab-on-ground and the
value of the house it supported.
Given the increase in the average cost of homes over the past twenty-five
years, and the engineer may decide that the price-benefit ratio of 1981 is not
appropriate for 2005.
3. The derivation of the over-consolidation coefficient and a slope correction
factor is not discussed in the WRI manual.
4. The WRI manual does indicate if deflection should be calculated using the
cracked, uncracked or effective moment of inertia. It is implied that cracked
moment of inertia should be used for bonded reinforcement, and uncracked
for post-tensioned reinforcement. Use of the fully cracked moment of inertia
is most likely conservative for foundation designs where the cracking moment
is at near to or greater than the imposed bending moment.
5. For purposes of calculating deflections, the WRI manual does not indicate if
the moment of inertia should be calculated using only beam widths, or if
beam flanges should be included.
6. For purposes of calculating deflection, the WRI manual does not explicitly
state if the cracked moment of inertia be calculated using the normal or creep
modulus of concrete. The formulas derived in the WRI manual for
approximating the required beam depths for the uncracked condition assume
the creep modulus of elasticity. This is consistent with general practice for
design of structures under long-term load.
7. The formulas provided in the WRI manual for preliminary sizing of beam
depth based on deflection criteria must not be used for design. First, the
formula given in the WRI manual for approximating the required beam depth
for a post-tensioned foundation is wrong. The formula from the WRI manual
is:
3
533
B
L M
d
C

=
The correct formula, assuming an uncracked section and ignoring the flanges,
is:
3
4
533
B
L M
d
C

=
Thus, the WRI formula overestimates the required beam depth by 59% and
thus overestimates the required I by about 400%. Since this sizing formula
ignores the beam flanges, it is even more conservative if final design
calculations include the beam flanges, which would be typical for post-
tensioned design.
The formula for bonded reinforcement assumes that the require beam depth
for the cracked condition is 59% of the required beam depth for the uncracked
condition. Thus, the cracked moment of inertial is assumed to be about 21%
of the uncracked moment of inertia. This may be a reasonable estimate for
the lightly reinforced sections used in most slab-on-grade foundations.
However, in some cases this formula may be overly conservative, especially if
beam flanges are used in the final calculation.
8. No guidance is given for maximum beam spacing.
9. No guidance is given for checking soil-bearing strength. Common practice
suggests using the projected areas of the beams to calculate bearing pressure.
The latest PTI Manual (3
rd
Edition) includes the effective flange width of the
beams to calculate bearing pressure.
6.8 SlabWorks Limitations
6.8.1 Shear
For WRI design, SlabWorks calculates the shear strength of concrete beams
using the full depth of the beam rather than the distance from the extreme
compression fiber to centroid of tension steel. This is slightly non-conservative.
However, shear rarely controls slab design.
SlabWorks allows use of the full shear capacity of the concrete without shear
reinforcing. This is specifically allowed by ACI-318 for slabs and footings.
6.8.2 Deflection
When calculating the uncracked deflection of a conventionally reinforced slab,
SlabWorks only considers the effective flange with of the T-Beam in
calculating I. For a post-tensioned slab, the full slab with is used.

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 7.0 PTI Analysis
7.0 PTI Analysis
7.1 Background
PTI analysis is performed using the methods presented in Design and
Construction of Post-Tensioned Slabs-on-Ground (3rd Edition including
Addendum No. 1) published by the Post-Tensioning Institute and commonly
referred to as the PTI Manual. This method in turn in based on the research
published in Development of a Design Procedure for Residential and Light
Commercial Slabs-on-Ground Constructed Over Expansive Soils written by W.K.
Wray in 1978. This design method is based on a regression analysis of multiple
foundation designs analyzed using a finite element analysis program.
We recommend that the user obtain and read the full text of the PTI manual as
it contains additional limitations and design requirements not discussed here.
The manual be obtained from the Post-Tensioning Institute at http://www.post-
tensioning.org. To truly understand the limitations of the design method it is
necessary to review Dr. Wrays Dissertation. A copy of Dr. Wrays dissertation
can be obtained from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses at http://www.umi.com.
The dissertation order number is 7909251.
Similar to the other three design methods implemented in SlabWorks, the PTI
method is at it simplest level a method of predicting the maximum moment,
shear and deflection occurring in a slab-on-grade. Once these values are
established, the actual design of the beams is conventional and will not be
unfamiliar to anyone who has performed post-tensioned concrete design.
The most important design values used in the PTI method are ym and em, which
represent the expected differential movement and the expected distance over
which the movement will occur. Design is very sensitive to these inputs.
The PTI manual present technique for designing slabs that are reinforced
against temperature and shrinkage cracking (BRAB type II slabs) and slabs that
are structurally reinforced and stiffened (BRAB type III slab). SlabWorks
currently implements only the Type III design but considers both expansive and
compressible soils, using post-tension or bonded reinforcing.
7.3 Changes from 2nd Edition to 3rd Edition
Several significant changes were made between from the 2
nd
to 3
rd
editions of the
PTI Manual. These include:
1. Bearing Pressure The 3
rd
edition allows bearing pressure to be calculated
using a bearing width equal to the beam width plus 16 times the slab
thickness for interior beams and 6 times the slab thickness of perimeter
beams. This is the formula used by ACI-318 for flange contribution to
bending strength.
2. Deflections The 3
rd
edition calculates a minimum moment of inertia
(stiffness) rather than calculating the actual deflection. In some cases there is
a large difference between the two criteria.
3. Post-Cracking Behavior The 3
rd
edition requires a minimum post-
cracking strength of the section. Allowable post-cracking strength is can be
provided by PT reinforcement or bonded reinforcement, and design moments
are only 90% of the service moment (No load factors required). The examples
in the manual use the full slab width rather than effective flange with when
checking the positive moment capacity. SlabWorks used the same design
method.
7.4 Changes to 3rd Edition in Addendum No. 1
Several significant changes were made in Addendum No. 1 to the 3rd Edition.
These include:
1. Post Cracking Strength The 3
rd
Edition required that the post-cracking
strength of the slab-section equal 90% of the uncracked strength. Addendum
No. 1 reduces this requirement to 50% of the uncracked strength.
2. Stiffness Addendum No. 1 reduced the required uncracked slab stiffness
by 33% relative to the required stiffness required by the 3
rd
Edition.
3. Shear Strength - Under the 3
rd
Edition, the contribution of the concrete to
shear capacity was equal to 1.7 times SQRT(fc). Addendum No. 1 increased
the contribution of the concrete to 2.4 time SQRT(fc).
7.5 Changes to 3rd Edition in Addendum No. 2
Several minor changes were made in Addendum No. 2 to the 3rd Edition. As
listed in the addendum, these are:
1. Slab Shape Factor - Sections 3.8 and 4.5.1 have been rewritten to clarify
that a designer has options that may be considered when the slab shape
factor exceeds 24.
2. Rib Spacing - Section 4.5.2.1 has been revised to permit rib spacings less
than 6 feet and to clarify what spacing shall be used to compute moments and
shears.
3. Rib Width - Section 4.5.2.3 has been revised to limit rib widths to a range of
6 to 14 in.
4. Uniform Thickness Conversion - Section 6.12 has been revised to clarify
that when converting to an equivalent uniform thickness foundation, the
conformant ribbed foundation need not satisfy the cracked section provisions.
5. The Modulus of Elasticity of Soil, Esoil - in the equation for has been
set as a constant = 1,000. Because this is the only location that the variable,
Esoil appears in this manual, the definition for Esoil has been dropped from
the List of Symbols and Notation in Appendix A.1.
7.6 SlabWorks Implementation General
1. Perimeter Loads The PTI manual suggest that when loads vary on the
perimeter (ratio of largest to smallest exceeds 1.25) that the maximum loads
should be used for center lift design and the smallest load for edge lift design.
For expansive soils, SlabWorks uses the maximum perimeter load to
calculate moment, shear and deflection in the center lift design mode. The
maximum perimeter loads is also used to calculate shear in the edge lift
design mode. The minimum perimeter load is used to calculate moment and
shear for the edge lift design mode. Maximum perimeter loads are used to
calculate shear for the edge lift design mode because this is more
conservative than using the minimum perimeter loads.
For compressible design, only the maximum perimeter load is used in the
calculations. The Minimum Perimeter Load field is ignored. This may or
may not be conservative depending on magnitude of the maximum and
minimum perimeter loads. Therefore, the user should run the SlabWorks
analysis twice, once with the true maximum perimeter load and once with
the minimum perimeter loads input into the Maximum Perimeter Load
field.
The PTI manual suggest the foundation design for compressible soil also be
designed for some nominal differential movement under the center lift design
mode using the design equations for expansive clay.
7.7 SlabWorks Implementation Post-Tensioned Reinforcing
General design factors that must be considered by the design engineer when
performing a SlabWorks analysis using the PTI design method include:
1. Slab Loads The PTI regression analysis assumes the loads on the slab at 40
psf live load, 15 psf dead load for partitions and 50 psf dead load for slab
weight. SlabWorks allows the use of alternative dead and live loads for
purposes of calculating soil bearing stress through the Superstructure
Weight field. However, the PTI assumed loads of 105 psf total loads will be
used for shear, moment and deflection analysis of the slab regardless of the
superstructure weight input by the user. Note that if the uniform dead plus
live load is significantly greater than 90 psf this may invalidate the
assumptions in the use of the PTI procedure.
2. Texas ASCE - If selected by the user, SlabWorks implements the
modifications suggested by the Texas Section of the ASCE. These
modifications are applicable to post-tensioned foundations only and include:
2.1. Minimum residual prestress is 100 psi.
2.2. Eccentricity must be less than 5-inches.
2.3. The maximum tensile stress at service loads must be less than 4(fc)
1/2
unless additional bonded reinforcement equal to 0.33% of the gross
beam section is provided.
2.4. The PTI em and ym must take into account the presence of trees and
other environmental effects.

7.8 SlabWorks Implementation Bonded PTI
As noted in the PTI manual, the PTI method was not developed specifically for
post-tensioned reinforcement, and can be used to analyze foundations
constructed with bonded reinforcement. However, the method does assume that
the sections will remain uncracked. Therefore, in order to analyze a slab with
bonded reinforcement, some modifications to the PTI method are required.
Generally, SlabWorks analyzes bonded slabs by calculating an equivalent
beam depth that provides an uncracked stiffness equal to the cracked stiffness of
the actual foundation geometry. This depth is then used in the PTI formulas to
calculate design shears, design moments and deflection/stiffness.
Factors that must be considered by the design engineer when analyzing a
foundation with bonded reinforcement using the PTI design method include:
1. Strength Analysis and Factored Loads The PTI regression analysis was
developed using service loads. Therefore, SlabWorks uses the PTI
equations to calculate moment and shear using service loads, and then
multiplies the resultant by the specified load factor to calculate the design
moment and design shear. The load factor should be between 1.4 (all dead
load) and 1.6 (all live load), depending on the relative ratio of live load to
dead load (This load factor is an average load factor, which should give a total
factored load equal to the requirements of ACI-318/ASCE 7).
2. Deflection and Factored Loads SlabWorks can calculate deflection using
factored or service loads. Deflections are normally calculated using service
loads. Using a load factor for the deflection calculation has the effect of
adding an additional factor of safety.

3. Effective Beam Depth The regression in the PTI analysis use beam depth
as an input, and the model used to develop the equations assumes that the
section remains uncracked. With bonded reinforcement, the section may
crack, reducing the modulus of inertia and increasing deflections.
SlabWorks accounts for this by calculating an effective beam depth based
on the imposed moment and calculated moment of inertia. The effective
depth can be calculated in one of three ways:

3.1. Actual Depth Actual beam depth is used in regression equation to
determine shear, moment and deflection. Use of this option implies
that the section remains uncracked. Deflection will be underestimated
if actual the bending moment exceeds the cracking moments.
3.2. Fully Cracked Moment of Inertia Beam depth used in the regression
equation is the beam depth that results in a moment of inertia equal to
the fully cracked moment of inertia of the actual section. This method
ensures that the stiffness considered in the PTI regression equations is
the same as the actual cracked stiffness. Because M = F(dE) = F(M),
this value is found iteratively:
Step Calculation Description
1 Mi = F(dA)
PTI Regression equation givens
bending moment as a function of beam
depth. For the first iteration the actual
beam depth is used.
2 IC,i = F(Mi)
Cracked moment of inertia is found
based on applied bending moment and
actual beam dimensions.
3 dE,i = F(IC,i)
Effective depth is found as the depth
that given a moment of inertia equal to
the cracked moment of inertia.
4 Mi+1 = F(dE,i)
PTI Regression equation gives bending
moment as a function of effective beam
depth.
5
Check convergence. If solution has not
converged, go to step 2.
Figure 7-1: WRI Design Equations for PT Reinforcing.
3.3. Effective Moment of Inertia Beam depth used in the regression
equation is the beam depth that results in a moment of inertia equal to
the effective moment of inertia of the actual section. The beam depth is
found iteratively as shown in Figure 7-1. Effective moment of inertia is
calculated per ACI-318:
cr
a
cr
g
a
cr
e
I
M
M
I
M
M
I
(
(
|
|
\
|
+ +
|
|
\
|
=
3 3
1
Figure 7-2: Effective Moment of Inertia
4. Compression Steel If selected by the user, SlabWorks will include
compression steel in bending strength calculations. Including compression
steel can make a significant difference in the cracked moment of inertia.

5. Compression Steel and Cracked Moment of Inertia - By default, SlabWorks
considers the compression steel in calculating the moment of inertia. Tension
steel is always included in calculating the cracked moment of inertia, as the
cracked moment would otherwise be zero.
6. Reinforcing Steel and Uncracked Moment of Inertia - By default,
SlabWorks considers both the tension and compression steel in calculating
the uncracked moment of inertia.

7. Slab Reinforcing - If selected by the user, SlabWorks will include slab
reinforcing when calculating the uncracked moment of inertia, cracked
moment of inertia and bending strength. Slab steel will be transformed in
cracked and uncracked moment of inertia calculations only if the appropriate
check-boxes are unselected (see 4 and 5 above). Slab steel will be included in
the bending strength calculations as compressions steel only if the
appropriate check boxes are unselected (see 3 above).
Only the portions of the slab steel in the effective flange width is included in
the appropriate calculation. If the user chooses to ignore beam flanges (see 6
below), including slab steel in the calculations will not have a significant
effect in the bending strength of moment of inertia unless the slab is heavily
reinforced.

8. Include Flanges in Bending StrengthSlabWorks will calculate bending
strength and deflection of the slab by considering the contribution of the
beams alone (ignoring the slab per BRAB), or will include the contribution of
the effective flange per ACI-318 recommendations. Slab steel in the flanges is
considered as compression and tension reinforcing steel if the appropriate
check boxes are selected.

9. Uniform Thickness Slab SlabWorks does not implement the PTI uniform
thickness analysis for bonded reinforcement.
7.9 Design Limitations
Several limitations must be considered when using the PTI design method.
1. Beam depths in the long and short directions must be the same. While the
foundation can be constructed with the beams in one direction deeper than
the beams in the other direction, the foundation must be analyzed assuming
that the depth of all beams is equal to the shallower depth.
2. The PTI manual recommends calculating the effect of subgrade friction on
post-tensioning stress using only the weight of the slab. This assumes that all
slab shortening occurs prior to additional load being placed on the slab. In
fact, some shortening due to thermal of shrinkage effects may occur after
additional loads are placed on the building. For this reason, the user may
want to define the subgrade friction assuming some portion of the total
service loads are present. This can be accomplished by increasing the
coefficient of subgrade friction.
3. The primary shortcoming of the PTI design method is restraint-to-shortening
(RTS) cracking. RTS cracking normally results because interlock between the
grade beams and subgrade prevents the post-tensioning cables from placing
the structure in full compression. Therefore, areas may exist in the center of
the slab in which no compression exists. If no bonded reinforcement is
present, which is the normal design condition for post-tensioned slabs-on-
ground, these areas are un-reinforced.
Historically, it is assumed that RTS cracking does not affect foundation
performance because all deflection is assumed to occur in the beta zone. The
design engineer should consider past experience in determining if this
assumption is valid in the area where the slab is being constructed. Forensic
evaluation of foundations has frequently shown deflection outside of the beta
zone.
In order to minimize the occurrence of RTS cracking, one can specify a higher
minimum residual port-tensioning stress (as recommended by the Texas
Section of ASCE), or assume a higher coefficient of subgrade friction.
As tile floor finishes have become more popular, RTS cracking has become a
bigger problem due to reflective cracking of floor finishes. This potential
problem should be discussed with the architect so that appropriate measures
can be taken to minimize floor finish cracking, such as the use of anti-
fracture or cleavage membranes under the floor tile.

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 8.0 Input Mode
8.0 Input Mode
The input screen has nine tabs that allow data input appropriate to the analysis
methodology selected by the user. Input fields that are not valid for the selected
analysis type will not be shown.
8.1 No Input Checking
Input values are NOT checked to ensure values are within acceptable limits for
the design methodology selected by the user. Ensuring the adequacy of the input
values in the responsibility of the user.
8.2 Input Tabs
All input is made on one of nine input tabs. The input tabs are:
1. Analysis - Select analysis type (PTI/BRAB/WRI, PT/Bonded,
Expansive/Compressive).
2. Project - Input project description.
3. Materials - Input material data
4. Geometry - Input slab geometry
5. Soils - Input soil data.
6. Post-Tensioning - Input post-tensioning data
7. Loads and Deflection - Input loads and allowable deflections.
8. Bonded Reinforcement - Input bonded reinforcement data
9. Bond Reinforcement Options - Bonded reinforcement calculation
options
For each tab, this manual discusses the recommendations of the WRI, BRAB,
PTI, ACI and ASCE if applicable. These recommendations are not coded into
SlabWorks, and it is the responsibility of the user to select the appropriate
design values.
Analysis Type Tab
The tab is used to select the design method, reinforcement type, slab type and
soil type. Since available input fields vary with the analysis type, this tab should
be completed prior to any additional data input.

Figure 8-1: Analysis Type Input Tab.
1. Analysis Method
1.1. PTI - Post Tensioning Institute (2
nd
and 3
rd
edition)
1.2. BRAB - Building Research Advisory Board
1.3. WRI - Wire Reinforcing Institute
2. Reinforcing Type
2.1. Post-Tensioned - Slab is reinforced with post-tensioning tendons.
Supplemental bonded reinforcement may also be included.
2.2. Bonded Reinforcement - Slab is reinforced with bonded reinforcement
only.
3. Slab Type
3.1. Stiffened Slab - Slab contains perimeter and interior grade beams.
3.2. Uniform Thickness Slab - Slab does not contain grade beams or down
turned edges.
4. Soil Type
4.1. Expansive Soil - Slab is built on expansive soils.
4.2. Compressible Soil - Slab is built on compressive soils.
5. Use Texas ASCE Modifications The Texas Section of ASCE recommend
certain modifications in the BRAB, WRI and PTI analysis. These
recommendations are discussed in Chapter 13.0. Not all ASCE
recommendations are hard coded into SlabWorks. Check the method
specific section of the manual for information on how SlabWorks
implements the Texas ASCE modifications for each specific design method.
8.3 Project Data Tab
This data is not used in the analysis but allows to user to identify the project.
This data will be reflected in the output file.

Figure 8-2: Project Data Input Tab.
8.4 Material Tab

Figure 8-3: Material Data Input Tab.
1. Concrete
1.1. f'C - Compressive strength of concrete in psi.
1.2. EC - Creep modulus of concrete in psi. Creep modulus is used to
calculate long-term deflection of the slab under permanent loads.
1.2.1. ACI - Recommends using a creep modulus of Ec/2 to determine
long-term deflections. Slightly lower factors may be used if the
ratio of steel reinforcing is considered. ACI recommends
33*(wC)^0.5*sqr(f'C), equal to 57,000*sqr(f'C) for normal weight
concrete.
1.2.2. BRAB - Requires 0.5*fc, assumed to be equal to 1,500,000 psi.
1.2.3. PTI Recommends half the nominal modulus.
1.2.4. WRI Equations for estimating beam depth use 1,500,000 psi.
No specified requirements.
1.3. Unit weight of concrete - For normal weight concrete, the unit weight
is normally assumed to be145 to 150 pcf. This value should include the
weight of steel.
1.4. Allowable tensile stress - Taken as a multiple of the square root of F'c.
1.4.1. ACI Recommends a value of 7.5 for purposes of calculating
cracked sections in normal weight concrete.
1.4.2. PTI - Recommends 6.0. However, this is based on working stress
design. For ultimate stress design a higher values is
appropriate.
1.4.3. Texas ASCE - For the PTI method, Texas ASCE recommends 4.0
without use of bonded reinforcement and 6.0 with 0.33% bonded
reinforcement top and bottom (0.66% total).
2. Conventional Steel
1.5. Es - Elastic modulus of steel in psi. ACI - Recommends using
29,000,000 psi.
1.6. fsyb - Yield strength of beam reinforcing steel in psi.
1.7. fsys - Yield strength of slab reinforcing steel in psi.
Geometry Tab
All input fields are shown below. In operation, only the input field relevant to
the current analysis type will be shown:

Figure 8-4: Geometry Data Input Tab.
1. Rectangle designation - This is for user reference only and is not used in the
analysis.
2. Slab thickness - Thickness of slab in inches
2.1. BRAB Recommended slab thickness is 4 inches. If slab thickness is
increased to 5 inches, slab steel can be reduced.
2.2. PTI For a uniform thickness slab, the minimum thickness slab is 7.5
inches unless a continuous perimeter stiffening slab is used (See
4.2(C)(2)(b)).
2.3. WRI No limits.
3. Slab length - Length of the slab in the long and short direction.
4. Number of beams - Number of grade beams in the long and short direction.
4.1. BRAB - The maximum beam spacing under BRAB is 15 feet, and the
recommended spacing is 9 to 12 feet. Beam spacing should be as equal
as possible. When beam spacing is not equal, grade beam reinforcing
steel and beam width should be apportioned is relationship to the
beam spacing (See BRAB page 18). Beams should be continuous and
should "dead-end" into the perimeter beam.
4.2. PTI See 7.0 of this section.
4.3. WRI No limits.
5. Depth of beams - Beam depth in long and short directions. Analysis assumes
all beams are the same depth. If beam depths vary, use the smallest depth for
the solution.
5.1. BRAB No limits.
5.2. PTI - The beam depth must be at least 12", and at least 7" greater than
the slab thickness. Beam depths must be the same.
5.3. WRI No limits.
6. Width of beams - Beam width in long and short directions. Analysis assumes
all beams are the same width. If actual beam widths vary, the average beam
width can be used for an approximate solution. Otherwise, use the minimum
beam width.
6.1. BRAB - Recommends a beam width between 8 and 14 inches.
6.2. PTI - Requires a beam width between 8 and 14 inches. PTI states that
while wider beams can be used (for example when required for
bearing), the additional width cannot be considering in the flexural
analysis.
6.3. WRI No limits.
7. Beam Spacing (PTI Only) - Maximum beam spacing in the PTI analysis is 17
feet, and the minimum spacing is 6 feet. Smaller spacing may be used in
construction but cannot be considered in the analysis. If the ratio between the
largest and smallest beam spacing exceeds 1.5, use 0.85*Smax, otherwise use
the average beam spacing.
8.5 Soils Tab

Figure 8-5: Soil Data Input Tab.
1. PTI Analysis Only PTI recommends that all soil values be supplied as part
of a soils investigation report submitted by the Geotechnical engineer.
1.1. Es - Soil modulus of elasticity in psi. PTI suggests using 1000 psi if the
actual value is unknown.
1.2. yme - Maximum differential soil movement, edge lift mode (inches).
1.2.1. If yme is calculated using the provisions of the 3
rd
edition of the
PTIO manual, various assumptions about the site must be
made, including assumptions about irrigation and tree removal.
The design engineer should review the assumptions used by the
geotechnical engineer to the extent reasonably possible and
verify that they are appropriate for the project.
1.2.2. The method for predicting yme in Appendix A.3 of the 2
nd
edition
of the PTI manual does not consider non-climatic factors such as
drainage, slopes, cut/fill sections, soil conditions at time of
construction and vegetation. If any of these factors are present,
the designer should consider increasing yme above the value
predicted from purely climatic considerations.
1.3. ymc - Maximum differential soil movement, center lift mode (inches).
1.3.1. If ymc is calculated using the provisions of the 3
rd
edition of the
PTIO manual, various assumptions about the site must be
made, including assumptions about irrigation and tree removal.
The design engineer should review the assumptions used by the
geotechnical engineer to the extent reasonably possible and
verify that they are appropriate for the project.
1.3.2. The method for predicting ymc in Appendix A.3 of the 2
nd
edition
of the PTI manual does not consider non-climatic factors such as
drainage, slopes, cut/fill sections, soil conditions at time of
construction and vegetation. If any of these factors are present,
the designer should consider increasing yme above the value
predicted from purely climatic considerations.
1.4. eme - Edge moisture variation distance, edge lift mode (inches).
1.4.1. It should be noted that the chart in appendix A.3 of the 2
nd

edition of the PTI manual is back calculated from successful
foundations, represents only a climatic 10-year return period
and doe not consider any non-climatic factors (drainage or
vegetation). These charts should not be used for design without
consideration of these factors.
1.5. emc - Edge moisture variation distance, center lift mode (inches).
1.5.1. It should be noted that the chart in appendix A.3 of the 2
nd

edition of the PTI manual is back calculated from successful
foundations, represents only a climatic 10-year return period
and doe not consider any non-climatic factors (drainage or
vegetation). These charts should not be used for design without
consideration of these factors.
1.6. Allowable bearing strength - Allowable bearing strength of soil in psf.
Bearing is calculated only on projected area of grade beams. Slab area
does not contribute to bearing.
1.7. Subgrade Modulus (Ks) This value is used to find the stress in the
slab under concentrated loads. Recommended values are shown in the
table below.
1.8. Cp - This value is used to find the stress in the slab under concentrated
loads. Recommended values are shown in the table below
Type of Subgrade Ks (lb/in
3
) Cp
Lightly compacted, high
plastic, compressible soil.
4 2.35
Compacted, low plastic
soil.
40 1.34
Stiff, compacted, select
granular or stabilized fill.
400 0.74
2. BRAB and WRI Analysis
2.1. PI - Effective Plasticity Index (PI). The effective PI is a weighted
number that considers the variation of PI with depth. The top 15 feet
of soil are considered. The weight factor for the top five feet is 3.0, the
middle five feet is 2.0, and the bottom five feet is 1.0. If the highest PI
soil is at the surface, the effective PI is equal to the highest PI. See
page 65 of the BRAB manual for a complete discussion.
2.2. Cw - Climatic Rating. This factor is indicative of the intensity of the
dry-moisture cycle. The higher the climatic rating the more stable the
moisture balance. Taken from BRAB Figure 1, page 38. It is important
to note that the climatic rating indicates potential shrink-swell
resulting from natural climatic cycles only. Certain man-made site-
specific conditions (drainage, vegetation, irrigation, leaks) may
increase the intensity of the moisture cycle beyond its natural limits
2.3. qu - Unconfined compressive strength of soil in psf.
3. WRI Analysis Only
3.1. Site slope - Site slope in %. Used to calculate site slope correction factor
3.2. Allowable bearing strength - Allowable bearing strength of soil in psf.
Bearing is calculated only on projected area of grade beams. Slab area
does not contribute to bearing.
8.6 Post-Tensioning Tab

Figure 8-6: Post-Tensioning Data Input Tab.
1. Slab Tendons
1.1. Specify average prestress - SlabWorks calculates the required
number of tendons based on minimum residual prestress (psi) and
maximum tendon spacing. Increasing the residual prestress will
reduce the possibility of experiencing restrain to shortening (RTS)
cracking.
1.1.1. PTI Recommends a minimum residual prestress of 50 psi.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
1.1.2. Texas ASCE - Recommends a minimum residual prestress of
100 psi.
1.2. Maximum tendon spacing - Maximum allowable tendon spacing in
feet. PTI recommends that maximum spacing should following local
practice. This value is normally in the range of 5 to 6 feet.
1.3. Specify number of tendons - SlabWorks calculates residual prestress
based on a specified number of tendons. This option is generally used
to evaluate existing designs.
2. Subgrade friction
2.1. PTI - Friction loss is calculated using the PTI methodology.
2.2. User defined - User specifies total friction is kips. In this event, the
coefficient of subgrade friction is not required.
3. Tendon Strength and Size
3.1. Strength - Ultimate strength of post-tensioning tendons in psi. 270 ksi
tendons are the most commonly used today.
3.2. Tendon size - Select tendon diameter or specify cross-sectional area. All
tendons must be the same size, which is good design practice to avoid
construction mistakes. If the tendon size varies, specify the smallest
tendon used.
4. Stress loss - This is the post-installation loss of tension force in the tendons,
measured in psi. This varies with the type of tendon. With low-relaxation
steel, the loss is typically assumed to be 15,000 psi.
5. Post-tension stress - This is the initial jacking force on the tendon as a
percent of ultimate strength. Tendons are most commonly jacked to 70% of
the ultimate strength.
6. Number of beam tendons (bottom) - Number of tendons located in the bottom
of each grade beam. Beam bottom tendons are not required but will decrease
the eccentricity and in some cases will allow for fewer total tendons. All grade
beams must have the same number of tendons.
7. Tendon cover Distance from the face of the concrete to the centroid of the
tendon. All tendons must have the same cover. If tendon cover varies, specify
the greatest amount of cover to obtain the conservative solution.
8. Coefficient of subgrade friction - This is the coefficient of friction between the
slab and subgrade. This value is used to determine the amount of post-
tensioning that is required to overcome friction and is only used if the user
does not specify the frictional force (See 2.0 above). The remaining tension is
assumed to compress the slab. PTI recommends 0.75 for slabs on
polyethylene and 1.0 for slabs cast directly on a sand base.
Since stiffened slabs are interlocked into the soil with the grade beams, the
friction force calculated is an equivalent friction force rather than an actual
friction force. Most of the resistance to slab shortening is from soil bearing an
compression at the side of the grade beams.
8.7 Loads and Deflection Tab

Figure 8-7: Loads and Deflection Data Input Tab.
1. PTI Analysis Only
1.1. Perimeter load Uniform service (unfactored) perimeter line load in
plf. The PTI regression analysis was run for perimeter loads ranging
from 600 plf to 1500 plf. The PTI procedure may not be valid for loads
outside of this range. If perimeter line loads vary significantly
(Mmax/Mmin > 1.25) , PTI requires that the slab be designed for center
lift using the largest perimeter line load, and for edge lift using the
lowest perimeter line load.
1.2. Concentrated Load Line load in lb/ft. This load is analyzed in both
the long and short directions.
1.3. Allowable deflection, edge lift - Allowable deflection under edge lift
conditions.
Material Allowable
Wood Frame 480
Stucco or Plaster 720
Brick Veneer 960
Concrete Masonry
Units
1920
Prefab Roof Trusses 2000
1.4. Allowable deflection, center lift - Allowable deflection under center lift
conditions.
Material Allowable
Wood Frame 240
Stucco or Plaster 360
Brick Veneer 480
Concrete Masonry
Units
960
Prefab Roof Trusses 1000
2. BRAB and WRI The BRAB and WRI manuals both recommend a total load
of 200 psf for single story wood-framed houses. WRI suggest 275 for a two
story house and 350 for a three story house.
2.1. Uniform Live Load Average uniform live load in psf.
2.2. Uniform Dead Load Average uniform live load in psf.
2.3. Allowable deflection - BRAB recommends 1/200 for wood finish, 1/300
for unplastered masonry or gypsum wallboard and 1/360 for stucco or
plaster. WRI recommends 1/480.
2.4. Dead Load Include Slab Weight Unless this box is checked,
SlabWorks will automatically calculate the weight of the slab based
on the input geometry and concrete density, and add it to the specified
uniform dead load.
8.8 Bonded Reinforcement Tab

Figure 8-8: Bonded Reinforcement Data Input Tab.
1. Area of steel in top of beams (in^2) - Area of steel in the tops of the grade
beams, per beam (negative steel). All beams are assumed to have the same
amount of steel.
1.1. PTI No guidance.
1.2. BRAB - No supplemental steel is required if the slab steel is capable of
calculated moments. Minimum steel ratio is 0.3%.
1.3. WRI - No guidance.
2. Area of steel in bottom of beams (in^2) - Area of steel in the bottoms of the
grade beams, per beam (positive steel). All beams are assumed to have the
same amount of steel.
2.1. PTI - No guidance.
2.2. BRAB - Minimum steel ratio is 0.3%.
3. Beam steel top cover (inches) - Distance from centroid of the top steel to the
top surface of the concrete beam. All beams are assumed to have the same
cover.
4. Beam Steel bottom cover (inches) - Distance from centroid of bottom steel to
the bottom surface of the concrete beam. All beams are assumed to have the
same cover.
5. Slab steel (in^2/ft) - Area of slab steel. Slab steel cover is assumed to be the
same as the top beam steel.
5.1. PTI - No guidance.
5.2. BRAB - Slab steel is placed in the top third of the slab. If the
maximum beam spacing is 12 feet or less, the slab steel shall be #3
bars each way at 12 inches o.c. If beam spacing exceeds 12 feet, slab
steel shall be #3 bars at 10 inches o.c. If a 5 inch slab is used, a 12 inch
bar spacing can be used regardless if beam spacing.
5.4. ACI See Section 12.3 on page 89.
8.9 Bonded Reinforcement Options Tab

Figure 8-9: Bonded Reinforcement Options Input Tab.
1. Load Factors (WRI and Bonded PTI Analysis)
1.1. Use ACI factored load for strength calculations - Ultimate strength
design requires the use of factored loads in calculating flexural and
shear strength of beams. However, if desired, unfactored loads can be
used in the analysis. This would have the net effect of lowering the
factor of safety for flexural and shear design. For the WRI analysis, the
program will use the larger of 1.2DL+1.6LL or 1.4DL. Since the PTI
method uses a perimeter line load that combines dead and live loads,
the load factor must be specified by the user and must consider the net
1
2
3
4
5
7
6
contribution of live and dead load to the total load. In general, dead
load comprises the majority of the total load and the appropriate load
factor typically will be 1.4 to 1.5.
For the PTI method the contribution of the slab weight and uniform
loads are integrated into the regression equations and cannot be
factored. Therefore, SlabWorks calculates the shear and moment
using unfactored loads, and then multiplies the result by the load
factor in order to obtain the factored shear and moment.
1.2. Use ACI factored load for deflection calculations - Deflections are
normally calculated using unfactored (service) loads. However, factored
loads can be used if desired by the user. This has the net effect of
providing a factor of safety for the deflection design criteria. Note that
the PTI, BRAB and WRI methods all use service loads to calculate
deflections (providing no factor of safety).
2. Bonded PTI Beam Depth - The PTI method assumes an uncracked section,
and the moment of inertia is represented in the regression equations by the
beam depth. When using bonded reinforcement, the section will be cracked if
the bending moment exceeds the cracking moment. Thus, the PTI analysis
may not be accurate for a slab with bonded reinforcement if the actual beam
depth is used in the regression equations presented in the PTI manual. To
address this issue, SlabWorks provides the user three options regarding
the beam depth used in the calculation. A complete discussion of the various
methods of calculating the moment of inertia in a reinforced concrete beam is
found in Section 10.0 on page 84.
2.1. Use full beam depth The actual beam depth is used in the PTI design
equations. This implies that the applied moment is less than the
cracking moment and the beams are therefore uncracked.
2.2. Use effective beam depths from ACI-318 effective I - SlabWorks
calculates an effective beam depth that results in a section with an
uncracked moment of inertia equal to the effective moment of inertia of
the actual (full depth) section. The effective moment of inertia is
calculated using the ACI-318 effective moment equation shown in
Figure 6-6 on page 36.
This analysis approach is based on the concept of equivalent stiffness,
where the section used to calculate design moments and shears has the
same stiffness as the cracked section. Actual section properties are
used to calculate shear and bending strength once the design moment
and shear are calculated.
2.3. Use effective beam depths from fully cracked I - SlabWorks
calculates the effective beam depth that results in a section with an
uncracked moment of inertia equal to the fully cracked moment of
inertia of the actual (full depth) section.
This analysis approach is based on the concept of equivalent stiffness,
where the section used to calculate design moments and shears has the
same stiffness as the cracked section. Actual section properties are
used to calculate shear and bending strength once the design moment
and shear are calculated.
3. Compression Steel (WRI and Bonded PTI)
3.1. Ignore compression reinforcement in strength calculations All
compression reinforcement is ignored in calculating the flexural
strength of the section.
3.2. Ignore compression reinforcement in deflection calculations (do not
transform when calculating I) All compression reinforcement is
ignored in calculating the uncracked and cracked moment of inertia.
4. Ignore all reinforcing steel in uncracked moment of inertia calculations
(tension and compression steel) - All reinforcing steel is ignored when
calculating the uncracked moment of inertia.
5. Use Flanges (WRI and Bonded PTI)
5.1. Use beams and flanges per ACI 318 in bending strength and deflection
calculations.
5.2. Use beams only (BRAB Method) Flanges are ignored in bending
strength and deflection calculations.
6. Use slab steel in calculations (WRI and Bonded PTI) - Slab steel is included
in all calculations where appropriate. All steel in the effective flange is
included in the analysis unless the user as indicated that flanges are to be
ignored, in which case only slab steel within the width of the beam is
considered. Inclusion of slab steel is over-ridden when appropriate. For
example, if the user has indicated that compression steel is to be ignored,
then slab steel in the compression zone is ignored even when the use slab
steel check box is set.
7. Fully Cracked vs. Effective Moment of Inertia (WRI Only) The WRI manual
use the fully cracked moment to calculate deflection. This option allows the
use to calculate the deflection using the more realistic ACI-318 method of
effective moment of inertia. A complete discussion of the various methods of
calculating the moment of inertia in a reinforced concrete beam is found in
Section 10.0 on page 84.
7.1. Use fully cracked moment for deflection calculation - In calculating the
deflection in the cracked condition, SlabWorks uses the fully cracked
moment of inertia.
7.2. Use Effective Moment of Inertial for deflection (ACI-318 9.5.2.3) - In
calculating the deflection in the cracked condition, SlabWorks uses
the effective moment of inertia as defined by ACI-318 The effective
moment of inertia is calculated using the ACI-318 equation shown in
Figure 6-6 on page 36.

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 9.0 Output Mode
9.0 Output Mode
Printed output is accomplished by clicking the Print button located at the
bottom of the analysis screen.
9.1 Print Setup
If the proper font is not selected in the option screen, the printed output will not
format properly. The font is selected from the Help-Options-Printing Menu. Most
systems already have Courier New installed, and the program is set up to work
best with this font.

Figure 9-1: Font Selection.
Any fixed width font such as a courier font or a line printer font will work.
SlabWorks installs the Bitstream Verra Sans Mono font in case no other
fixed width fonts are already installed on the system. This font will produce
SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 9.0 Output Mode
acceptable printed output. If interested, experiment to find a font you like.
However, all proportional fonts will format improperly.

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 10.0 Moment of Inertia
10.0 Moment of Inertia
SlabWorks provides the option to use the effective moment of inertia, the
cracked moment of inertia or the uncracked moment of inertia for most
deflection calculations.
10.1 Uncracked Moment of Inertia
The uncracked moment of inertia for slabs-on-grade has historically been
calculated without consideration for the effect of reinforcing steel. This was
because steel is typically present in low ratios, and it is more difficult to
calculate the modulus of inertia and include the effect of the steel.
SlabWorks will include the effects of reinforcing steel in calculating the
moment of inertia if desired by the user. This transformation is more effective in
the design of foundation because the assumed modulus of elasticity of the
concrete is the creep modulus, which is typically considered to be only 50% of the
normal modulus.
10.2 Cracked Moment of Inertia
The cracked moment of inertia is only meaningful when tension steel is present,
as an implicit assumption in the calculation is that the concrete has no tensile
strength. Therefore, without the presence of tension steel the cracked moment
would be zero.
Because the steel is considered in calculating the cracked moment, this can
result in a cracked moment larger than the uncracked moment is heavily
reinforced beams, if the steel is ignored in calculating the uncracked moment.
This is not an error, but merely a reflection of the fact that calculation of the
moment of inertia without considering the reinforcing steel is a conservative
method.
SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 10.0 Moment of Inertia
10.3 Effective Moment of Inertia
Generally, the bending moment in a beam is not constant across the length.
Additionally, flexural cracking (and subsequent reduction in moment of inertia)
occurs only intermittently along the beam. Therefore, the using the fully cracked
moment of inertia to calculate deflection will overestimate the actual deflection.
ACI 318 allows the use effective moment that will give more accurate results
when used in deflection equations. The ACI 318 equation is:
cr
a
cr
g
a
cr
e
I
M
M
I
M
M
I
(
(
|
|
\
|
+ +
|
|
\
|
=
3 3
1

The ACI-318 formula for effective moment of inertia is based on ACI Committee
435 report Deflections of Reinforced Concrete Flexural Members, published in
the Journal of the American Concrete Institute, June 1966. For cantilever beams
the effective moment of inertia is calculated at the support, which is the point of
maximum moment. Thus, for cantilever beams, the effective moment of inertia is
most likely conservative (lower than the actual value).
The use of the effective vs. fully cracked moment of inertia for calculating the
deflection in slabs on grade has not been discussed in the literature. However,
its use in analyzing elevated structural slabs is fully accepted. In a lightly
reinforced slab, the use of the effective moment may be non-conservative as the
slab may form a hinge at the crack. In a moderately reinforced beam, use of the
fully cracked moment of inertia to calculate deflection is almost certainly
conservative. The ultimate decision whether to use the cracked or effective
moment of inertia remains with the engineer of record.

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 11.0 Verification and Validation
11.0 Verification and Validation
SlabWorks includes the following input files in the Verification subdirectory.
These problems can be compared to the referred problems for verification and
validation purposes.
File Name Description
WRI Manual Example.sog WRI TF 700-R-03 design example (Appendix
B), Bonded Reinforcing
BRAB Example #1 BRAB Report No. 33 (Page 185), bonded
reinforcement.
BRAB Example #2 BRAB Report No. 33 (Page 225), bonded
reinforcement.
PTI2 Appendix A.6 PT.sog PTI 2
nd
Edition Appendix A.6, PT
Reinforcement.
nd
Reinforcement.
nd
Reinforcement.
nd
Reinforcement.
nd
Reinforcement.
nd
Reinforcement.
If you are aware of other published design examples, we will add these examples
to the verification and validation package on request.
SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta 12.0 Building Code Requirements
12.0 Building Code Requirements
12.1 International Building Code (2006)
12.1.1 Foundation Design Requirements
The International Building Code (IBC) contains requirements for the design of
foundations on expansive clay. The requirements for foundations on expansive
clay are found in section 1805.8. Section 1805.8 allows for four design
approached for dealing with expansive clay:
1. Removal of expansive soil to depth to a depth sufficient to ensure a
constant moisture content in the remaining soil.
2. Stabilization of soil by chemical, dewatering, presaturation or
equivalent techniques.
3. Use of slab-on-grade of mat foundation designed and constructed in
accordance with the WRI/CRSI, PTI design methods or rational
method accounting for soil-structure interaction, deformed shape of the
soil support, and plate action of the slab in center lift and edge lift
conditions.
4. Compliance with 1805.8.1.
Section 1805.8.1 deals with the design of deep foundation, and generally requires
that the foundation be designed to resist the effects of volume change such that
any structural movement does not interfere with the usability and
serviceability of the structure.
1805.8.1 Foundations. Footings or foundations placed on or within
the active zone of expansive soils shall be designed to resist
differential volume changes and to prevent structural damage to the
supported structure. Deflection and racking of the supported
structure shall be limited to that which will not interfere with the
usability and serviceability of the structure
Foundations placed below where volume change occurs or below
expansive soil shall comply with the following provisions:
1. Foundations extending into or penetrating expansive soils
shall be designed to prevent uplift of the supported structure.
2. Foundations penetrating expansive soils shall be designed
to resist forces exerted on the foundation due to soil volume
changes or shall be isolated from the expansive soil.
12.1.2 Drainage Requirements
The IBC code also contains requirements for drainage and grading in Section
1803.3 and 1805.3.4. Adherence to these requirements will minimize the possible
of foundation failure due to poor drainage. Section 1803.3 generally requires a
5% slope ways fro the building perimeter for a distance of 10 feet. Section
1805.3.4 presents minimum foundation elevations, stating:
1805.3.4 Foundation Elevations. On graded sites, the top of any
exterior foundation shall extend above the elevation of the street
gutter at point of discharge of the inlet of an approved drainage
device a minimum of 12 inches plus 2 percent.
12.2 International Residential Code (2003)
Section R403.1.8 of the International Residential Codes IRC requires that
foundation on expansive clay be designed in accordance with Section 1805.8 of
the International Building Code. The code also allows the local building official
to approve alternative systems which have performed adequately in soil
conditions similar to those encountered at the building site.
12.3 ACI 318-02 Building Code Requirements for Reinforced Concrete
As discussed in the commentary, ACI 318-05 minimum steel requirements
(0.18%) for elevated slabs are not applicable to slabs-on-grade. Instead, refer to
ACI 224 Control of Cracking for directions on controlling cracking of slabs-on-
grade. Generally, cracking is controlled with a combination of steel and control
joints. According to ACI 224, 0.50%-0.60% steel is required to control cracking
with steel alone.

SlabWorks Manual v1.07beta Appendices
13.0 Texas Section ASCE
13.1 Background
The Texas Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers has published a
recommended practice (RP) intended to supplement the design provisions
presented in the various national design standards (PTI, WRI and BRAB). The
stated rationale of this document is:
National building codes have general guidelines, which may not be sufficient for
the soil conditions and construction methods in the State of Texas. The purpose
of this document is to present recommended practices for the design of
residential foundations to augment current building codes to help reduce
foundation related problems.
The RP defines expansive soil as soils with a weighted plasticity index (BRAB
method) of greater than 15 or a maximum potential volume change of 1 percent
or greater. A free copy of the RP can be obtained at http://www.texasce.org.
This section describes the report as it relates to the implementation of PTI, WRI
and BRAB design methods. We recommend that the user obtain and read the
full text of the RP as it contains additional limitations and design requirements
not discussed here. The RP can be obtained directly from the Texas Section of
the ASCE from their website.
13.2 Design Process
The RP requires that foundation design consist of four steps:
A site-specific geotechnical investigation completed by a geotechnical
engineer.
A foundation design by a licensed engineer.
Construction phase observation by the engineer of record or an approved
delegate.
Issuance of a compliance letter by the engineer of record.
13.3 Slab-On-Grade Design
The RP allows design of slabs-on-grade using four methods, BRAB, PTI and WRI
and finite element analysis. The RP provides specific modifications and guidance
for the use of each method. Except as noted, these modifications are
implemented by SlabWorks if selected by the user. Finite element analysis is
not discussed in this section as it is not implemented in SlabWorks.
BRAB BRAB modifications are not implemented in SlabWorks. See the
Section 5.0 for discussion.
Regardless of actual beam length, the analysis length shall be limited to
50 feet.
Use the maximum long-term creep factor as provided in ACI 318.
PTI Method
Minimum residual prestress is 100 psi.
Eccentricity must be less than 5-inches.
The maximum tensile stress at service loads must be less than 4(fc)
1/2
unless additional bonded reinforcement equal to 0.33% of the gross beam
section is provided.
The PTI em and ym must take into account the presence of trees and other
environmental effects.
WRI
Regardless of actual beam length, the analysis length shall be limited to
50 feet.
The minimum design length LC shall be increased by a factor of 1.5 with a
minimum design length of 6 feet.
13.4 Slabs-on-Grade with Piers
The RP provides specific guidance for the design of slabs-on-grade with piers.
This type of system is commonly used in many areas of the country. The RP
requires:
The slab must be design as a slab-on-grade for purposes of heave and as
an elevated structural slab for purposed of settlement.
Elevated structural slabs must be designed in accordance with applicable
building codes (this is generally construed as indicating the design must
meet the requirements of ACI-318 and associated standards).
The piers shall not be rigidly attached to the grade beams unless the
foundation system is specifically designed to resist uplift forces (this
implies that uplift forces must be supplied as part of the geotechnical
investigation).
Appendices

Appendix 1 BRAB Climatic Rating, Cw.

Appendix 2 BRAB Support Index, C.

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