Summary

1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 2
2 Simple Bending ...................................................................................................................... 8
2.1 Montoya’s table ............................................................................................................ 8
2.2 Reinforcement............................................................................................................... 9
2.3 Verification of the cross section .................................................................................. 12
2.4 Example assessment of the rectangular cross section................................................ 13
2.5 Design of the rectangular cross section ...................................................................... 14
2.6 Example of design the rectangular cross section ........................................................ 16
2.7 Example of design the rectangular cross section ........................................................ 17
2.8 T cross section ............................................................................................................. 18
 Design and assessment of R.C. section subjected at simple bending

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1 Introduction

For the design and assessment of the cross-section subjected to simple bending,
these hypotheses are formulated:

1) Flat deformations
 𝜀𝑠 = 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑖𝑛 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑑 𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑒𝑙.
 𝜀𝑐 = 𝑑𝑒𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑒 𝑎𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑑 𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑒𝑑𝑔𝑒.

2) Non-linear constitutive laws

 Steel reinforcement (Steel type B450C) both in compression and
tension

Figure 1: Constitutive law of steel

 𝐸𝑠 = 𝐸𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝑚𝑜𝑑𝑢𝑙𝑢𝑠 = 210000 𝑀𝑃𝑎

 𝑓𝑦𝑑 = 𝑈𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑔𝑛 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠 = 391 𝑀𝑃𝑎
𝑓𝑦𝑑 391 𝑀𝑃𝑎
 𝜀𝑠𝑦𝑑 = 𝑌𝑒𝑙𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑑𝑒𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 = = 210000𝑀𝑝𝑎 = 0,1862 %
𝐸𝑠
 𝜀𝑠𝑢𝑑 = 𝑈𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑑𝑒𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 = 6,5 %

If εsud is exceeded, steel is broken even if the deformation in theory can go to

infinity.

 Concrete (Equal or lower that C50/60) in compression

Figure 2: Constitutive law of concrete if class is lower of C50/60

 Design and assessment of R.C. section subjected at simple bending

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 𝜀𝑐𝑑 = 0,2%
 𝜀𝑐𝑢𝑑 = 0,35%

If the limits from steel and concrete are exceeded, the section is broken.

Using these deformation limits, one can define the limit situations of the
deformation profiles, grouping them in fields:

 Field I

The section is subjected to

pure tension. All planes passing
through A identify situations of
ULS.

𝜀𝑠 = 𝜀𝑠𝑢𝑑
0 ≤ 𝜀𝑐 ≤ 𝜀𝑠𝑢𝑑

 Field ll

The section is subjected

to both tension and
compression.

𝜀𝑠 = 𝜀𝑠𝑢𝑑
−0,35% ≤ 𝜀𝑐 ≤ 0
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 Field lll

The limit of the concrete is

reached and the steel is in the
plastic range.

𝜀𝑐 = −3,5%
𝜀𝑠𝑦𝑑 ≤ 𝜀𝑠 ≤ 𝜀𝑠𝑢𝑑

 Field lV
The steel returns to the elastic
range and the cross-section begins
to be compressed.
εs1 can be evaluated as a
proportion.

𝜀𝑐 = −3,5%
𝜀𝑠1 ≤ 𝜀𝑠 ≤ 𝜀𝑠𝑦𝑑

−3,5‰ 𝜀𝑠1 𝑐
= → 𝜀𝑠1 = (−3,5 ‰)
𝐻 𝑐 𝐻
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 Field V From normative the

average c
The new point around
which the section rotates is C.

−0,35% ≤ 𝜀𝑐 ≤ −0,2%
−0,2% ≤ 𝜀𝑠 ≤ 𝜀𝑠1

x can be evaluated as a
proportion
𝑥 𝐻 3
= 𝑥= 𝐻
(3,5 − 2)‰ −3,5 ‰ 7
Then, analyzing the cross-section equilibrium with:
 𝑁𝑟𝑑 = ∫ 𝜎 𝑑𝐴
 𝑀𝑟𝑑 = ∫ 𝜎𝑦 𝑑𝐴
Equations that must be valid for each deformation profile of the five fields.

Figure 3: Behavior of the section subjected to simple bending

 Horizontal equilibrium
𝑁𝑟𝑑 – 𝜎𝑠 𝐴𝑠 − ∫ 𝜎𝑐 𝑑𝐴 = 0 (1)

 Moment equilibrium around point D

ℎ
𝑀𝑟𝑑 – 𝜎𝑠 𝐴𝑠 (2 – 𝑐) + ∫ 𝜎𝑐 𝑦 𝑑𝐴 = 0 (2)

In order to simplify the calculation let’s consider stresses of the compressed zone
as a rectangle. That is done in the following way:
 Design and assessment of R.C. section subjected at simple bending

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Figure 4: Behavior of the compressed section

The resultant force of the compressed zone is:

𝐶 = ∫ 𝜎𝑐 𝑑𝐴

Integrating in the area Ac, and changing the integration variable to 𝑑𝐴 = 𝑏 𝑑𝑦 ,

because b is a constant.

𝐶 = 𝑏 ∫ 𝜎𝑐 𝑑𝑦 (1)

Using the stress rectangle:

𝐶 = 𝑏 ∗ 𝑦𝑜 ∗ 𝛽1 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 (2)

With (1) and (2):

𝑏 𝑦𝑜 𝛽1 𝜎𝑐𝑑 = 𝑏 ∫ 𝜎𝑐 𝑑𝑦

Changing again the integration variable to ε

𝜀 𝜀𝑐 𝑦𝑜
= → 𝑑𝑦 = 𝑑𝜀
𝑦 𝑦𝑜 𝜀𝑐

𝑦𝑜
𝑏 ∗ 𝑦𝑜 ∗ 𝛽1 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 = 𝑏 ∫ 𝜎𝑐 𝑑𝜀
𝜀𝑐
Then, it is obtained:

𝜀𝑐
∫ 𝜎𝑐 𝑑𝜀
𝛽1 = 0
𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝜀𝑐

Then, using the stress-strain relationship of concrete previously mentioned, two

values of β1 are obtained (one for parabolic part and one for linear part) which
depend only on εc.
 Design and assessment of R.C. section subjected at simple bending

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𝛽1 = 500 𝜀𝑐 – 83333,3 𝜀𝑐 2 𝑖𝑓 0 ≤ 𝜀𝑐 ≤ 0,2%

(0,001333 + 𝜀𝑐 – 0,002)
𝛽1 = 𝑖𝑓 0,2% ≤ 𝜀𝑐 ≤ 0,35%
𝜀𝑐

The same procedure is applied in order to obtain 𝛽2. Applying moment equilibrium
in the upper face of the block:

𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝑦𝑜 ∗ 𝛽1 ∗ (𝛽2 ∗ 𝑦𝑜 ) = ∫ 𝜎𝑐 ∗ (𝑦𝑜 − 𝑦)𝑑𝐴

Changing the integration variable to: 𝑑𝐴 = 𝑏 𝑑𝑦

𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝛽1 ∗ 𝛽2 ∗ 𝑦𝑜 2 = ∫ 𝜎𝑐 ∗ (𝑦𝑜 − 𝑦)𝑏 𝑑𝑦

Changing again the integration variable to:

𝜀 𝜀𝑐 𝑦𝑜
= → 𝑑𝑦 = 𝑑𝜀
𝑦 𝑦𝑜 𝜀𝑐
𝜀 ∗ 𝑦𝑜 𝑦𝑜
𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝛽1 ∗ 𝛽2 ∗ 𝑦𝑜 2 = ∫ 𝜎𝑐 ∗ (𝑦𝑜 − )∗𝑏∗𝜀 𝑑𝜀
𝜀𝑐 𝜀𝑐
Then, it is obtained:

∫ 𝜎𝑐 ∗ (𝜀𝑐 − 𝜀)𝑑𝜀
𝛽2 =
𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝛽1 ∗ 𝜀𝑐 2

Using the stress-strain relationship of concrete previously mentioned, two values

of β2 are obtained (one for parabolic part and one for linear part) which depend
only on εc.

−20833. 𝜀𝑐 2 + 166,7𝜀𝑐
𝛽2 = 𝑖𝑓 0 ≤ 𝜀𝑐 ≤ 0,2%
𝛽1

𝜀𝑐 2
− 0,00067. 𝜀𝑐 + 3,33. 107
𝛽2 = 2 𝑖𝑓 0,2% ≤ 𝜀𝑐 ≤ 0,35%
𝛽1 ∗ 𝜀𝑐 2

So, the equilibrium equations become:

𝑁𝑟𝑑 – 𝜎𝑠 𝐴𝑠 − 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝛽1 ∗ 𝑦𝑜 = 0 (1.1)

𝑀𝑟𝑑 – 𝜎𝑠 𝐴𝑠 (ℎ⁄2 – 𝑐) + 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝛽1 ∗ 𝑦𝑜 ∗ (ℎ⁄2 − 𝛽2 ∗ 𝑦𝑜 ) = 0 (2.1)

 Design and assessment of R.C. section subjected at simple bending

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2 Simple Bending

In the case of simple bending the horizontal equilibrium term on (1.1) is zero,
𝑁𝑟𝑑 = 0, and applying moment equilibrium on the resultant C, the formulas (1.1)
and (2.1) become:

𝜎𝑠 𝐴𝑠 = 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝛽1 ∗ 𝑦𝑜 (1.2)

𝑀𝑟𝑑 – 𝜎𝑠 𝐴𝑠 ∗ (𝑑 − 𝛽2 ∗ 𝑦𝑜 ) = 0 (2.2)

Defining some important parameters:

𝑦𝑜
 𝜉= 𝑑
𝑓𝑦𝑑 ∗𝐴𝑠
 𝜔=𝜎
𝑐𝑑 ∗𝑏∗𝑑
𝜎𝑠
 𝑘= 𝑓𝑦𝑑

Dividing (1.2) by 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 to get a non-dimensional equation:

𝜎𝑠 𝐴𝑠 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝛽1 ∗ 𝑦𝑜
=
𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝑑

𝒌𝝎 = 𝜷𝟏 𝝃

Dividing (2.1) by 𝜎𝑐𝑑. 𝑏. 𝑑2 to get a non-dimensional equation:

𝑀𝑟𝑑 𝜎𝑠 𝐴𝑠 (𝑑 − 𝛽2 ∗ 𝑦𝑜 )
=
𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝑑2 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 2

𝜇𝑟𝑑 = 𝑘𝜔. (1 − 𝛽2 𝜉)

𝝁𝒓𝒅 = 𝛽1 𝝃. (𝟏 − 𝛽2 𝝃)

2.1 Montoya’s table

It is a tool that is very useful to evaluate the field in which a cross-section is

working. The steps are the following:
1) A strain profile is given
It is only possible to evaluate profiles from fields 2, 3 and 4. 1 and 5 are pure
compression and tension.
𝜀𝑠 = 𝜀𝑠𝑢𝑑
 Field 2: {
−0,35% ≤ 𝜀𝑐 ≤ 0

𝜀𝑠𝑦𝑑 ≤ 𝜀𝑠 ≤ 𝜀𝑠𝑢𝑑
 Field 3 {
𝜀𝑐 = −0,35%
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𝜀𝑠1 ≤ 𝜀𝑠 ≤ 𝜀𝑠𝑦𝑑
 Field 4 {
𝜀𝑐 = −0,35%

2) 𝛽1 is calculated for each case

500 𝜀𝑐 – 83333,3 𝜀𝑐 2 𝑖𝑓 0 ≤ 𝜀𝑐 ≤ 0,2%)

𝛽1 = {(0,001333 + 𝜀𝑐 – 0,002)
𝑖𝑓 0,2% ≤ 𝜀𝑐 ≤ 0,35%
𝜀𝑐

3) Compute ξ
A triangle relation is used:
| 𝜀𝑐 |
𝜉=
| 𝜀𝑐 | + 𝜀𝑠

𝜎𝑠
4) Compute 𝑘 = 𝑓𝑦𝑑

 Field 2 → 𝜎𝑠 = 𝑓𝑦𝑑 → 𝑘=1

 Field 3 → 𝜎𝑠 = 𝑓𝑦𝑑 → 𝑘=1
𝜎
 Field 4 → 𝜎𝑠 = 𝐸𝑠 ∗ 𝜀𝑠 → 𝑘 = 𝑓 𝑠
𝑦𝑑

𝛽1 𝜉
5) Compute 𝜔 = and 𝜇𝑟𝑑 = 𝛽1 𝜉 ∗ (1 − 𝛽2 𝜉)
𝑘

2.2 Reinforcement

The strain field which presents better behavior is the 3rd. That is because the steel
reinforcement works in the plastic range (𝜀𝑠𝑦𝑑 ≤ 𝜀𝑠 ≤ 𝜀𝑠𝑢𝑑) in that case.
But is needed to limit also this range with the following expressions, in terms of
the maximum and minimum reinforcement.
The section § 4.1.6.1.1 of NTC 2008 states the following:

𝐴𝑠𝑀𝐴𝑋 ≤ 4% ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 (2.4.1)
𝐴𝑠𝑀𝐴𝑋
≤ 4% (2.4.2)
𝑏∗𝑑

Multiplying by σcd*fyd both the numerator and denominator, it is obtained:

𝑓
𝜔 ≤ 4% 𝜎𝑦𝑑 (2.4.3)
𝑐𝑑
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Using steel B450C → fyd =391 MPa; with concrete C 25/30 → σcd= 14 MPa, it
(2.4.3) becomes:
391
𝜔 ≤ 4% = 1,1
14
and from (2.3.9)
1,1
ξ≤ = 1,36
0,81
These values are related to the maximum reinforcement percentage.

Similarly, the minimum reinforcement percentage is also stated. The NTC (2008)
§ 4.1.6.1.1 states:
𝑓
𝐴𝑠𝑀𝐼𝑁 ≥ 0,26% 𝜎𝑐𝑡𝑚 (2.4.4)
𝑦𝑘

Where fctm indicates the average tensile strength of concrete and his value is f ctm
= 0,3 fck2/3;
Also, fyk = fyd*γs.
𝑓𝑦𝑑 0,26 0,30∗𝑓𝑐𝑘 2⁄3
𝜔 = 𝐴𝑠𝑀𝐼𝑁 𝑏∗𝑑∗𝜎 ≥ 1,15 ∗ (2.4.5)
𝑐𝑑 𝜎𝑐𝑑

With C 25/30, σcd = 14 MPa and fck = 25 MPa

From (2.4.5)

0,26 0,30 ∗ 252⁄3

𝜔= ∗ = 0,04
1,15 14
and from (2.3.9)
0,04
ξ= = 0,05
0,81
Therefore:
0,05 ≤ ξ ≤ 1,36 (2.4.6)

Imposition resulting from minimum and maximum reinforcement of the code for
areas not considered seismic.
In seismic zone we have from § 7.4.6.2.1 of NTC 2008
1,4 𝑏𝑑
 𝐴𝑠 min = 𝑓𝑦𝑘

Multiplying by 𝛾𝑠 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 both sides:

1,4 𝑏𝑑
𝐴𝑠𝑚𝑖𝑛 ∗ 𝛾𝑠 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 = ∗ 𝛾𝑠 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑
𝑓𝑦𝑘
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𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑
𝐴𝑠𝑚𝑖𝑛 ∗ 𝛾𝑠 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 = 1,4
𝑓𝑦𝑑

1,4
𝜔𝑚𝑖𝑛 =
𝛾𝑠 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑

1,4
𝜉𝑚𝑖𝑛 =
𝛾𝑠 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝛽1

For a concrete C25/30 → 𝜎𝑐𝑑 = 14,2 𝑀𝑃𝑎 and 𝛾𝑠 = 1,15

𝜉𝑚𝑖𝑛 = 0,11

3,5 𝑏𝑑
 𝐴𝑠 min = 𝑓𝑦𝑘

Applying the same procedure, it can be obtained:

𝜉𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 0,26
The Eurocode limits this maximum value depending on the concrete class in the
following way:
 𝜉 ≤ 0,25 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑒 𝑐𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙 𝑜𝑟 𝑙𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝐶50 /60

 𝜉 ≤ 0,15 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑒 𝑐𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙 𝑜𝑟 𝑙𝑎𝑟𝑔𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝐶55 /67

So the final working limits are:
0,11 ≤ 𝜉 ≤ 0,25
Eurocode 2 states that for a ductile behavior one must impose ξ≤0.25. If ξ= 0,11
is chosen, then neutral axis takes its minimum possible depth, therefore a section
with a definitely big shape is obtained; to reduce these dimensions one must
choose ξ as large as possible: in this case ξ = 0.25.

Substituting this value in the equations of 𝜔 and 𝜇𝑟𝑑 are obtained the following
results:
ω = 0,2
μrd = 0,18
Summarizing:
 Select the materials (ex. B450C, C25 / 30)
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 Establish the concrete cover "c" according to the exposure class of the
concrete
a) Fix H and evaluate d = H – c
- From μrd = 0,18 find “b”
- From ω = 0,2 find As

b) Fix B
- From μrd = 0,18 find “b”
- From ω = 0,2 find As

Can be written
𝐴𝑠 ∗𝑓𝑦𝑑
𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 = (2.4.9)
0,2

𝑀𝑅𝑑 = 0,18 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 (2.4.10)

Substituting at (2.4.9) b d σcd from (2.4.10), it is obtained:

0,18
𝑀𝑅𝑑 = 𝐴𝑠 ∗ 𝑓𝑦𝑑 ∗ 𝑑 ∗ (2.4.11)
0,2

𝑀 𝑅𝑑
𝐴𝑆 = 0,9∗𝑑∗𝑓 (2.4.12)
𝑦𝑑

2.3 Verification of the cross section

Simple bending verification of a section in R.C. at the USL it’s carried out by
checking that:

𝑀𝑅𝑑 ≥ 𝑀𝐸𝑑

Where:

 𝑀𝑅𝑑 is the project's flexural strength of the section;

 𝑀𝐸𝑑 is the flexural stress.

On the other hand, the section of the element is known, and consequently its
geometry and the material from which it is constituted.

Note that the external stress (MEd), in order to carry out the verification it is
necessary to evaluate the flexion resistance of the section (MRd).
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Figure 6: Evolution of the deformations in the section subjected to simple bending

2.4 Example assessment of the rectangular cross section

b = 300 mm
H = 550 mm
C = 50 mm
As = 6 Φ 20
C 30/37
B450C
MEd = 300 kN*m

We obtain σcd as
𝑓𝑐𝑘 𝑓𝑐𝑘
𝛼𝑐𝑐.∗ = 0,85. = 17 𝑀𝑃𝑎
𝛾𝑐 𝛾𝑐

We obtain fyd as
𝑓𝑐𝑘 450
= = 391 𝑀𝑃𝑎
𝛾𝑠 1,15

202
𝐴𝑠 = 6 ∗ 𝜋 ∗ = 1884 𝑚𝑚
4
𝑑 = 𝐻 − 𝑐 = 550 − 50 = 500 𝑚𝑚
A𝑠 f𝑦𝑑 1884 ∗ 391
𝜔= = = 0,288
b ∗ d ∗ σ𝑐𝑑 300 ∗ 500 ∗ 17
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At this point, field 3 is selected, and table ω - μ - ξ is consulted in order to look for
the interval of values that enclose the calculated ω, obtaining the real μ by
interpolation between these two.

μrd2 − μrd1
μrd = μrd1 + [ ] ∗ (𝜔 − 𝜔1 )
𝜔2 − 𝜔1
0,259 − 0,222
μrd = 0,222 + [ ] ∗ (0,288 − 0,256) = 0,245
0,308 − 0,256

So it is obtained that:
𝑁
𝑀𝑟𝑑 = μrd ∗ b ∗ 𝑑2 ∗ σ𝑐𝑑 = 0,245 ∗ 300 ∗ 5002 ∗ 17 = 312.400.000
𝑚𝑚
𝑘𝑁
𝑀𝑟𝑑 = 312,4
𝑚
Mrd > MEd → Section is verified.

2.5 Design of the rectangular cross section

Known the Med that must be supported by the section I, put it equal to Mrd.

𝑀𝑒𝑑 = 𝑀𝑟𝑑

It is necessary to define the geometry of the section and the materials that
compose it (assuming reinforcement only in the stretched part of the section).

For a best use of materials, we use εc0 → 3,5 ‰, σs → fyd (assuming that σs is
equal to the maximum value that this particular concrete can support) and a
concrete from C 50/60 class. We are under conditions of ductile ultimate state
limit (USL), that means with the breaking on "steel side" (which happens after
yielding) in order to fall within field 3.
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Figure 7: Behavior of the section subject to simple bending

𝑦0 𝜀𝑐𝑜
ξ= = (2.3.2)
𝑑 𝜀𝑐𝑜 +𝜀𝑠

𝑦0 = ξ ∗ d (2.3.3)

C = 0,81 ∗ ξ ∗ σ𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 (2.3.4)

The moment with respect to the point of application of the force T is:

𝑀𝑟𝑑 = 𝐶 ∗ (𝑑 − 𝛽2 ∗ 𝑦0 ) = 𝐶 ∗ 𝑑 ∗ (1 − 𝛽2 ∗ ξ0 ) (2.3.5)

If εc0 → 3,5 ‰, so β2 = 0,42:

𝑀𝑟𝑑 = 𝐶 ∗ 𝑑 ∗ (1 − 0,42 ∗ ξ0 ) (2.3.6)

𝑀𝑟𝑑
= 0,81 ∗ ξ ∗ (1 − 0,42 ∗ ξ) (2.3.7)
𝑑2 ∗𝑏∗σ𝑐𝑑

Considering that:
𝑓𝑦𝑑
= 0,81 ∗ ξ (2.3.8)
σ𝑐𝑑 ∗𝑏∗𝑑

It is noticed that the first member of the equation (2.3.8) is equal to ω, therefore
the design formulas related to field 3 are:

𝜔 = 0,81 ∗ ξ (2.3.9)

μrd = 0,81 ∗ ξ ∗ (1 − 0,42 ∗ ξ) (2.3.10)

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2.6 Example of design the rectangular cross section

MRd = Med = 240 kN*m

H = 600 mm

c = 40 mm

C 25/30

B450C

ξ = 0,25

𝑀
μRd = 0,18 = 𝑏∗𝑑2𝑅𝑑 [a]
∗𝜎 𝑐𝑑

𝐴𝑠 ∗𝑓𝑦𝑑
𝜔 = 0,2 = 𝑏∗𝑑∗𝜎 [b]
𝑐𝑑

From [a] we get

𝑀𝑅𝑑 240.000.000
𝑏= = = 300 𝑚𝑚
0,18 ∗ 𝑑 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 0,18 ∗ 5602 ∗ 14
2

From [b] we get

𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 𝑓𝑦𝑑 0,20 ∗ 300 ∗ 560 ∗ 14
𝐴𝑠 = = = 1212 𝑚𝑚2
𝑓𝑦𝑑 391

It is considered to have 5 Φ 18 having an area equal to 1270 mm2.

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2.7 Example of design the rectangular cross section

Known:
H, b, c

There are cases in which b and H are known and it is only necessary to calculate
As (this happens when the designer have already pre-designed the concrete
section).
In this case, the section behaves as field 3.

𝜔 = 0,81 ∗ ξ (2.3.9)

μrd = 0,81 ∗ ξ ∗ (1 − 0,42 ∗ ξ) (2.3.10)

With the limitation 0,11 ≤ ξ ≤ 0,25

In this circumstance from (2.3.10), ξ is obtained (N.B. it is a II-degree

equation and one have to take as a solution the one within the range 0 ≤ ξ ≤ 0.26).
There is not presence of normal stress and therefore y0 < H.

if ξ < 0,11
One must select ξ = 0,11 and evaluate ω with equation (2.3.9).

In this case, a resistant bending moment higher than necessary is obtained

(N.B. minimum reinforcement is used).

if ξ > 0,25

Then one need to change the cross section because the reinforcement will
exceed the maximum allowable value.
 Design and assessment of R.C. section subjected at simple bending

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if 0,11 ≤ ξ ≤ 0,25
With this value of ξ, calculate ω with (2.3.9).

2.8 T cross section

For the T-shaped section, there are 2 bases:

 Base of the soul bw

 Top plate base (thick s) beff (be careful that beff is not always equal to the
internal axis of the single joists, for the calculation of the b eff refer to EC2 §
5.3.2.1.)
The study of this section can be divided in two cases with respect to the neutral
axis position (Y0). In particular, let’s consider the cases in which the neutral axis is
positioned within the wing thickness or not.

Case 1 Y0<s

One can neglect the stretched concrete, so all that is below the neutral axis can
be ignored, in exception of the reinforcement; then the T-section will be as if it
were a rectangular section of base beff.
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So everything that has been stated before for a rectangular section is valid, both
in the verification and in the design phase.

Example of assessment

s=50mm C40/45

d=250mm B450C

c=40mm Med=60 KN/m

H=280mm σcd=22,6 MPa

bw=500mm fyd=391 MPa

As=400mm2

𝐴𝑠 ∗ 𝑓𝑦𝑑 400 ∗ 391

𝜔= = = 0,0554
𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 22,6 ∗ 500 ∗ 250

We enter the Montoya’s table with the value of ω previously obtained:

An interpolation is necessary to find the exact value:

μrd2 − μrd1
μrd = μrd1 + [ ] ∗ (𝜔 − 𝜔1 )
𝜔2 − 𝜔1
0,0493 − 0,0477
μrd = 0,0477 + [ ] ∗ (0,0554 − 0,0490) = 0,538
0,0506 − 0,0490

Med refers to a span equal to 1 m so to 2 joist (beff = 500mm)

Check the position of the neutral axis:

𝑌0 = ξ ∗ d = 0,0694 ∗ 250 = 17,35 mm

Y0 < s ok
Mrd must be refered to 2 joists, that means 2 beff:

𝑀𝑟𝑑 = μrd ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 2𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑓 ∗ 𝑑2 = 0,0538 ∗ 22,6 ∗ 2 ∗ 500 ∗ 2502 = 38375,99 𝑘𝑁⁄𝑚

Med < Mrd is verified

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Case 2 Y0>s

The equilibrium at rotation with respect to point B is made:

1. 𝑇 = 𝐶 − 𝐶1
𝐻 𝐻 𝐻
2. 𝑀𝑟𝑑 = 𝑇 ∗ ( 2 − 𝑐) + 𝐶 ∗ ( 2 − 𝛽2 ∗ 𝜀𝑐0 ∗ 𝑦0 ) − 𝐶1 ∗ ( 2 − (𝛽2 ∗ 𝜀𝑐1 ∗ 𝑦1 − 𝑆) − 𝑆)

Substituting the values of σ at C, C1, T:

𝑇 = 𝐴𝑠 ∗ 𝜎𝑠
𝐶 = 𝛽1 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑦0 ∗ 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑓
𝐶1 = 𝛽1 ∗ 𝜀𝑐1 ∗ (𝑦0 − 𝑆) ∗ (𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑓 − 𝑏𝑤 ) ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑

It is obtained

1. 𝐴𝑠 ∗ 𝜎𝑠 = 𝛽1 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑦0 ∗ 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑓 − 𝛽1 (𝜀𝑐1 ) ∗ (𝑦0 − 𝑆) ∗ (𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑓 − 𝑏𝑤 ) ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑

𝐻 𝐻
2. 𝑀𝑟𝑑 = 𝐴𝑠 ∗ 𝜎𝑠 ∗ ( 2 − 𝑐) + 𝛽1 ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑦0 ∗ 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑓 ∗ ( 2 − 𝛽2 (𝜀𝑐0 ) ∗ 𝑦0 ) − 𝛽1 (𝜀𝑐1 ) ∗ (𝑦0 −
𝐻
𝑆) ∗ (𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑓 − 𝑏𝑤 ) ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ ( 2 − (𝛽2 (𝜀𝑐1 ) ∗ 𝑦1 − 𝑆) − 𝑆)

To get equations 1) and 2) without dimensions

 Divide 1) by σcd∙d∙beff and the following equation is obtained:

𝑠 𝑏
ω ∗ k = 𝛽1 (𝜀𝑐0 ) ∗ ξ − 𝛽1 (𝜀𝑐1 ) ∗ (ξ − 𝑑) ∗ (1 − 𝑏 𝑤 ) (1.1)
𝑒𝑓𝑓

 Divide 2) by σcd∙d2∙beff and the following equation is obtained:

1 𝐻 𝑦 𝐻 𝑦0 −𝑠
μrd = k ∗ ω ∗ 𝑑 ∗ ( 2 − 𝑐) + 𝛽1 (𝜀𝑐0) ∗ 𝑑02 ∗ ( 2 − 𝛽2 ∗ 𝜀𝑐0 ∗ 𝑦0 ) − 𝛽1 (𝜀𝑐1 ) ∗ ∗
𝑑2
𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑓 −𝑏𝑤 𝐻
∗ [ − 𝑠 − 𝛽2 (𝜀𝑐1 ) ∗ (𝑦0 − 𝑠)] (1.2)
𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑓 2

Subtitute (1.1) in (2.2) and it is finally obtained:

𝑠 𝑏𝑤
μ𝑟𝑑 = 𝛽1 (𝜀𝑐0 ) ∗ ξ ∗ (1 − 𝛽2 (𝜀𝑐0 ) ∗ ξ) − 𝛽1 (𝜀𝑐1 ) ∗ (ξ − ) ∗ (1 − )
𝑑 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑓
𝑠 𝑠
∗ [1 − − 𝛽2 (𝜀𝑐1 ) ∗ (ξ − )]
𝑑 𝑑
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Also in this case, the Montoya’s table is built for the T cross sections (class of the
concrete < C 50/60)

 Define the limit field (fields 2,3,4)

 Known εc0 and εs calculate ξ
 Calculate εc1 = εc0 (1 – s/ (d* ξ))
 Find β1(εc0) β2 (εc0), β1(εc1), β2 (εc1)

Calculate ω and μrd from:

𝑠 𝑏𝑤
ω ∗ k = 𝛽1 (𝜀𝑐0 ) ∗ ξ − 𝛽1 (𝜀𝑐1 ) ∗ (ξ − ) ∗ (1 − )
𝑑 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑓

𝑠 𝑏𝑤
μ𝑟𝑑 = 𝛽1 (𝜀𝑐0 ) ∗ ξ ∗ (1 − 𝛽2 (𝜀𝑐0 ) ∗ ξ) − 𝛽1 (𝜀𝑐1 ) ∗ (ξ − ) ∗ (1 − )
𝑑 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑓
𝑠 𝑠
∗ [1 − − 𝛽2 (𝜀𝑐1 ) ∗ (ξ − )]
𝑑 𝑑

Example of assessment

s=120mm C30/37
d=800mm B450C
c=40mm Med=900 KN/m
H=900mm σcd=17 MPa
bw=200mm fyd=391 MPa
As=3180mm2
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𝐴𝑠 ∗ 𝑓𝑦 3180 ∗ 391
𝜔= = = 0,0228
𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏 ∗ 𝑑 17 ∗ 800 ∗ 400

Enter the Montoya’s table for the T cross sections with the value of ω previously
obtained:
Field 3
ec0 b1 b2 es x k ec1 b1 b2 w mRd
0.0035 0.81 0.416 0.035665 0.089366 1 -0.00237 -1.65727 0.309694 0.022144 0.026046
0.0035 0.81 0.416 0.033792 0.093854 1 -0.00209 -1.41222 0.311766 0.036377 0.038661

An interpolation is necessary to find the exact value:

μrd2 − μrd1
μrd = μrd1 + [ ] ∗ (𝜔 − 𝜔1 )
𝜔2 − 𝜔1
0,0387 − 0,0260
μrd = 0,0260 + [ ] ∗ (0,0228 − 0,0260) = 0,198
0,0364 − 0,0221
μrd = μ1 + [(μ2 – μ1) / (ω2 – ω1)] (ω – ω1) = 0,198
𝑀𝑟𝑑 = μrd ∗ 𝜎𝑐𝑑 ∗ 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑓 ∗ 𝑑2 = 0,0198 ∗ 17 ∗ 400 ∗ 8002 = 863 𝑘𝑁⁄𝑚

Med > Mrd it’s not verified!

T cross section design

Known beff, bw and Med

We put Med=Mrd
We have to find As, s, d,
We have 2 equations
and 3 unknowns

Procedure:
𝑀𝑅𝑑
 From 𝜇𝑅𝑑 = = 0.18 we get d
𝑏𝑑2 𝜎𝑐𝑑
𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑦𝑑
 From 𝜔 = = 0.2 we get As
𝜎𝑐𝑑 𝑏𝑑
𝑦0
 From ξ = we get y0
𝑑
 Verify y0 ≤ s
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It also can happen that the whole shape of the section is known and only the
reinforcement needs to be calculated.
One can proceed as it was done for the beam.
Let’s consider the case in which the neutral axis cuts the section Y0<s.

With the formulas for the rectangular sections, ξ can be calculated, starting from
μrd = 0,81 ξ (1 – 0,42 ξ) and then proceeding as for the rectangular sections.

From:
𝑀𝑅𝑑
𝜇𝑅𝑑 = = 0.18 one obtains As
𝑏𝑑2 𝜎𝑐𝑑

From
𝐴𝑠 𝑓𝑦𝑑
𝜔= = 0.2 one gets As
𝜎𝑐𝑑 𝑏𝑑

If Y0 > s it is necessary to change the section if it is desired that the neutral axis
cuts the section.

Observations
Why did we make T-sections instead of rectangular ones?

Because Med is equal to an internal torque (T and C multiplied by their respective

arms), we look for the form in which at the same distance the two forces of the
couple are the largest possible.
 To increase the pull in the stretched area, we just need to increase the
area of steel, to increase the tension in the compressed area we have to
widen the base of concrete and keep the two of them as far as possible.
 The best situation is when the neutral axis is inside the section (y0≤s)
 From the code, we know that we should add a minimum of reinforcement
in the compressed area

In the design phase after we calculated As, we have to add As1 (reinforcement in
the compressed area):
 In critical areas (column - beam node)

1
𝐴1𝑠
𝜌 = ≥ 0,50 ∗ 𝜌
𝑏∗𝐻
 In non critical areas
𝜌1 = 0,25 ∗ 𝜌
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Questions:

1) For simple bending sections of R.C., field 1 of USL is composed by cross

sections that have in common the point of:

a) maximum strain of the stretched steel

b) maximum strain of the compressed steel
c) maximum strain of compressed concrete
d) strain of yielding of steel

2) For simple bending sections of R.C., field 2 of USL is composed by cross

sections that have in common the point of:

a) maximum strain of the stretched steel

b) maximum strain of the compressed steel
c) maximum strain of compressed concrete
d) strain of yielding of steel

3) For simple bending sections of R.C., field 3 of USL is composed by cross

sections that have in common the point of:

a) maximum strain of the stretched steel

b) maximum strain of the compressed steel
c) maximum strain of compressed concrete
d) strain of yielding of steel

4) For simple bending sections of R.C., field 4 of USL is composed by cross

sections that have in common the point of:

a) maximum strain of the stretched steel

b) maximum strain of the compressed steel
c) maximum strain of compressed concrete
d) strain of yielding of steel

5) In a R.C. cross section, the values of b1 and b2 for the calculation of the
resultant of compression and of his position depend on:

a) strain of the stretched steel

b) strain of the compressed steel
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c) maximum stress of the compressed concrete

d) maximum strain of the compressed concrete

6) For checking a rectangular cross section of R.C. in simple bending we need

to:

a) calculate the reinforcement

b) calculate MRd
c) calculate the height of the section
d) calculate the base of the section

7) In the design of a rectangular section of R.C. in simple bending, the ideal

conditions of
resistance and ductility can be reached by imposing:

a) mechanical percentage of reinforcement = 0.18 and reduced bending

moment = 0.2
b) mechanical percentage of reinforcement = 0.2 and reduced bending
moment = 0.18
c) mechanical percentage of reinforcement = 0.2 and reduced bending
moment = 0.2
d) mechanical percentage of reinforcement = 0.18 and reduced bending
moment = 0.18

8) In the design or in the check of a rectangular section of R.C. in simple bending,

if the depth of the compressed zone with respect to the useful height ξ is greater
than 0.25:

a) there is a reinforcement greater than the maximum

b) there is a reinforcement lower than the minimum
c) neither the minimum and the maximum reinforcement condition are
respected
d) we have the ideal condition
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9) In the design or in the check of a rectangular section of R.C. in simple bending,

if the depth of the compressed zone with respect to the useful height ξ is lower
than 0.11:

a) there is a reinforcement greater than the maximum

b) there is a reinforcement lower than the minimum

c) neither the minimum and the maximum reinforcement condition are

respected
d) we have the ideal condition

10) In the design or in the check of a rectangular section of R.C. in simple

bending, if the depth of the compressed zone with respect to the useful height ξ
is between 0.11 and 0.25:

a) there is a reinforcement greater than the maximum

b) there is a reinforcement lower than the minimum

c) neither the minimum and the maximum reinforcement condition are

respected
d) we have the ideal condition

11) Calculated the reinforcement in the stretched zone of a bending section,

belonging to the critical areas of beams and columns, in the compressed part of
the same section it is necessary to have:

a) twice the reinforcement in the stretched area

b) half of the reinforcement in the stretched area
c) no reinforcement
d) ¼ of the reinforcement in the stretched area

12) Calculated the reinforcement in the stretched zone of a bending section,

belonging to the non-critical areas of beams and columns, in the compressed part
of the same section it is necessary to have:
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a) twice the reinforcement in the stretched area

b) half of the reinforcement in the stretched area
c) no reinforcement
d) ¼ of the reinforcement in the stretched area