SCI P401 Design of Composite Beams Using Precast Concrete Slabs in

Licensed copy: LEEDSUNI, UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS, 26/01/2021, Uncontrolled Copy, © Steel Construction Institute
P401 Design of Composite Beams Using Precast Concrete Slabs in accordance with Eurocode 4
EUROCODE 4
CONCRETE SLABS IN
ACCORDANCE WITH
DESIGN OF COMPOSITE
BEAMS USING PRECAST
To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
This material is copyright - all rights reserved. Reproduced under licence from The Steel Construction Institute on 07/08/2014
EUROCODE 4
ACCORDANCE WITH
CONCRETE SLABS IN
DESIGN OF COMPOSITE
BEAMS USING PRECAST
SCI PUBLICATION P401
G H Couchman MA, PhD, CEng, MICE

EUROCODE 4
CONCRETE SLABS IN
ACCORDANCE WITH
DESIGN OF COMPOSITE
BEAMS USING PRECAST
i
SCI (The Steel Construction Institute) is the leading, independent provider of technical expertise
and disseminator of best practice to the steel construction sector. We work in partnership with
clients, members and industry peers to help build businesses and provide competitive advantage
through the commercial application of our knowledge. We are committed to offering and promoting
sustainable and environmentally responsible solutions.
Our service spans the following areas:
Membership Consultancy
Individual & corporate membership Development
Product development
Advice Engineering support
Members advisory service Sustainability
Information Assessment
Publications SCI Assessment
Education
Events & training Specification
Websites
Engineering software
© 2014 SCI. All rights reserved. Apart from any fair dealing for the purposes of
research or private study or criticism or review,
Publication Number: SCI P401 as permitted under the Copyright Designs and
Patents Act, 1988, this publication may not be
ISBN 13: 978-1-85942-213-7 reproduced, stored or transmitted, in any form
or by any means, without the prior permission
Published by: in writing of the publishers, or in the case of
SCI, Silwood Park, Ascot, reprographic reproduction only in accordance
Berkshire. SL5 7QN UK with the terms of the licences issued by the UK
Copyright Licensing Agency, or in accordance with
T: +44 (0)1344 636525 the terms of licences issued by the appropriate
F: +44 (0)1344 636570 Reproduction Rights Organisation outside the UK.
E: reception@steel-sci.com Enquiries concerning reproduction outside
the terms stated here should be sent to the
www.steel-sci.com publishers, SCI.
To report any errors, contact: Although care has been taken to ensure, to

publications@steel-sci.com the best of our knowledge, that all data and
information contained herein are accurate to
the extent that they relate to either matters of
fact or accepted practice or matters of opinion
at the time of publication, SCI, the authors and
the reviewers assume no responsibility for any
errors in or misinterpretations of such data and/or
information or any loss or damage arising from or
related to their use.
Publications supplied to the members of the

Institute at a discount are not for resale by them.
British Library Cataloguing-in-Publication Data.

A catalogue record for this book is available from
the British Library.
The text paper in this publication is totally

chlorine free. The paper manufacturer and
the printers have been independently certified
in accordance with the rules of the Forest
Stewardship Council.
ii
FOREWORD
7RUHÁHFWWKHZLGHVSUHDGXVHRISUHFDVWFRQFUHWHÁRRUVLQEXLOGLQJFRQVWUXFWLRQ
6&,SXEOLVKHGJXLGDQFHLQWKHIRUPRIDesign of Composite Beams using Precast
Concrete Slabs3LQWKDWZDVEDVHGRQ%67KLVXSGDWHG
SXEOLFDWLRQWDNHVWKDWJXLGDQFHDQGEULQJVLWLQWROLQHZLWK(XURFRGHQRWDEO\
(1DQG(1ZKLFKUHSODFHG%6LQ
7KHVHDUHSXEOLVKHGLQWKH8.DV%6(1GRFXPHQWVEXWIRUVLPSOLFLW\DOOUHIHUHQFHV
LQWKLVSXEOLFDWLRQDUHWRWKHEDVLF(1GRFXPHQW5XOHVDUHWDNHQIURP(1DQG
ZKHUHDSSURSULDWH(1DVLPSOHPHQWHGYLDWKHYDULRXV8.1DWLRQDO$QQH[HV
8QOLNHWKHHDUOLHUJXLGDQFHWKLVSXEOLFDWLRQRQO\FRYHUVVWHHOFRQVWUXFWLRQLQZKLFK
WKHSUHFDVWVODEVVLWRQWKHWRSÁDQJHVRIWKHEHDPV&RPSRVLWHLQWHUDFWLRQLV
GHYHORSHGE\WKHDFWLRQRIZHOGHGVKHDUFRQQHFWRUVDWWDFKHGWRWKHVWHHOEHDPV
XVHGLQFRQMXQFWLRQZLWKWUDQVYHUVHUHLQIRUFHPHQWSDVVLQJEHWZHHQLQGLYLGXDOSUHFDVW
XQLWV$OWKRXJKWKLVIRUPRIFRQVWUXFWLRQLVFXUUHQWO\RXWVLGHWKHH[SOLFLWSURYLVLRQV
RI(XURFRGHWKHHDUOLHU6&,SXEOLFDWLRQDQGUHVHDUFKZRUNKDYHEHHQGHYHORSHG
WRSURGXFHQRQFRQWUDGLFWRU\FRPSOHPHQWDU\LQIRUPDWLRQ1&&,ZKLFKPD\EHXVHG
DORQJVLGHWKH(XURFRGHLWVHOI7KLVSXEOLFDWLRQWKHUHIRUHSUHVHQWVGHVLJQJXLGDQFHRQ
WKHLQWHUDFWLRQDQGGHWDLOLQJRISUHFDVWVODEVRIKROORZFRUHRUVROLGSODQNVHFWLRQWKDW
DUHVXSSRUWHGE\DQGLQWHUDFWZLWKVWHHOEHDPV
7KLVSXEOLFDWLRQZDVSUHSDUHGE\'U*UDKDP&RXFKPDQRI7KH6WHHO&RQVWUXFWLRQ,QVWLWXWH
ZLWKDVVLVWDQFHIURP3URI'HQQLV/DPDWWKH8QLYHUVLW\RI%UDGIRUGDQGVWDIIDWWKH
3UHFDVW)ORRULQJ)HGHUDWLRQ3)),WLVEDVHGRQWKHHDUOLHUZRUNE\'U6WHSKHQ+LFNV To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
DQG3URI0DUN/DZVRQZKRZHUHDWWKHWLPHDVVLVWHGE\DZRUNLQJSDUW\FRQYHQHGE\
WKH3))6LJQLÀFDQWSDUWVRIWKHFRQWHQWDUHDOVRWDNHQIURPRWKHUUHFHQW6&,
SXEOLFDWLRQVSULPDULO\Design of Steel Beams in Torsion3DQGComposite Design
of Steel Framed Buildings37KHDXWKRUVRIWKRVHSXEOLFDWLRQVDUHDOVRJUDWHIXOO\
DFNQRZOHGJHGIRUWKHLUFRQWULEXWLRQ
iii
CONTENTS
FOREWORD iii 4 DESIGN OF THE BEAMS 21

4.1 Construction stage 21
SUMMARY vii
4.2 Normal stage 29
1 INTRODUCTION 1 4.3 Special cases 44
1.1 Background 1 4.4 Steelwork connections 44
1.2 Benefits of composite beams using 4.5 Robustness 45
precast concrete units 1
5 DESIGN OF THE SLAB 47
1.3 Design considerations 2
5.1 Design of precast units 47
1.4 Scope of this publication 2
5.2 Allowance for non-rigid supports 47
1.5 Design basis 3
5.3 Diaphragm action 48
2 FORMS OF CONSTRUCTION 5
6 FIRE RESISTANCE 51
2.1 Generic forms 5
6.1 Support beams 51
2.2 Types of precast slab 6
6.2 Hollow core units 52
2.3 Downstand beams 7
2.4 Materials 7 REFERENCES 55
3 PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS 11 CREDITS 56

3.1 Minimum beam width 11
3.2 Welding of shear connectors 12
3.3 Factory preparation of the ends of
hollow core units 13
3.4 Placing of transverse reinforcement 14
3.5 Detailing of edge beams 16
3.6 Temporary stability 18
v
vi
SUMMARY
This publication provides guidance on the design of steel beams acting compositely
with precast concrete slabs. The use of hollow core or solid plank precast units can
RIIHUEHQHÀWVLQWHUPVRIFRVWDVZHOODVWKHDGYDQWDJHVRIIHUHGE\FRPSRVLWH
construction. The design basis is generally in accordance with Eurocode 4, supplemented
by NCCI derived from test data. The guidance discusses the particular issues affecting
the use of precast concrete concerning the requirements of effective shear connection
and transverse reinforcement. Reference is made to small-scale push-out tests, and
earlier composite beam tests, that have established reduction factors for the design
resistance of welded shear connectors as a function of the gap between the ends of
the precast concrete units, and the amount of transverse reinforcement provided.
The guidance also emphasises the importance of the design of the steel beam in
the non-composite construction stage, where out-of-balance loads can occur during
installation of the precast concrete units. The guidance applies to hollow core units
(which are typically 150 to 250 mm deep), and to solid precast planks (typically 75 to
100 mm deep).
A design procedure is given for composite beams using various forms of precast
concrete units, with or without a concrete topping.
vii
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
Structural steel has achieved a high market share in UK building construction,
DQGLVRIWHQXVHGLQFRQMXQFWLRQZLWKYDULRXVW\SHVRISUHFDVWFRQFUHWHÁRRUV$
KLJKSURSRUWLRQRIPXOWLVWRUH\VWHHOIUDPHVXVHSUHFDVWFRQFUHWHÁRRUVZKLFKDUH
SDUWLFXODUO\VXLWHGWRVHFWRUVVXFKDVKRWHOVUHVLGHQWLDOEXLOGLQJVDQGFDUSDUNV
Precast slabs can be used with steel beams either in the traditional ‘downstand beam’
DUUDQJHPHQWVODERQWRSRIEHDPVRULQVKDOORZÁRRUFRQVWUXFWLRQVODEZLWKLQWKH
GHSWKRIWKHVWHHOEHDPV,QERWKFDVHVWKHSUHFDVWXQLWVSURYLGHDÁDWVRIÀWDQG
DFKLHYHORQJVSDQVEHWZHHQWKHVXSSRUWLQJEHDPV:LWKVKDOORZÁRRUFRQVWUXFWLRQWKH
VRIÀWLVÁDWRYHUWKHZKROHÁRRUDUHD7KLVSXEOLFDWLRQRQO\FRYHUVGRZQVWDQGEHDPV
1.2 Benefits of composite beams using precast

concrete units
7KHV\QHUJ\EHWZHHQWKHXVHRISUHFDVWFRQFUHWHXQLWVDQGVWHHOVWUXFWXUHVLVWKDW
they both come from a manufacturing technology rather than a site-based activity, and
VKDUHWKHTXDOLW\FRQWURODFFXUDF\DQGUHOLDELOLW\RIIDFWRU\SURGXFWLRQ
7KHSDUWLFXODUDGYDQWDJHVRIXVLQJWKHVHWZRFRPSRQHQWVLQFRPSRVLWHDSSOLFDWLRQVDUH
ɹ 7KHZHLJKWDQGGHSWKRIWKHVWHHOVHFWLRQFDQEHUHGXFHGUHODWLYHWRQRQFRPSRVLWH
DSSOLFDWLRQVOHDGLQJWRVDYLQJVLQERWKVWHHOFRVWDQGEXLOGLQJKHLJKW
ɹ 7KHVSDQRIWKHKROORZFRUHVODEVLVVXFKWKDWWKHQXPEHURIVHFRQGDU\EHDPVFDQ
be reduced compared to many traditional composite beams (where the secondary
beam spacing is dictated by the spanning capabilities of the composite deck-slab),
OHDGLQJWRIHZHUEHDPVDQGWKHUHIRUHTXLFNHUHUHFWLRQRIWKHVWHHOZRUN
ɹ $ZLGHUDQJHRISUHFDVWFRQFUHWHSURGXFWVDQGVWHHOEHDPVL]HVLVDYDLODEOH
ɹ $ÁDWVRIÀWLVFUHDWHGEHWZHHQGLVFUHWHGRZQVWDQGEHDPVZKLFKFDQEHDOLJQHG
ZLWKZDOOV7KLVVRIÀWPD\EHOHIWH[SRVHGWRSURYLGHXQLQKLELWHGDFFHVVWRWKH
WKHUPDOPDVVSUHVHQWHGE\WKHFRQFUHWH
ɹ 3UHFDVWFRQFUHWHXQLWVPD\EHSUHIHUUHGLQVHPLH[SRVHGDSSOLFDWLRQVVXFKDV
FDUSDUNVZKHUHHQKDQFHGGXUDELOLW\LVUHTXLUHG
ɹ 7KHFRQVWUXFWLRQV\VWHPLVPRVWHIÀFLHQWIRUFROXPQJULGVRIDSSUR[LPDWHO\PuP
ZKHUHWKHVSDQQLQJFDSDELOLWLHVRIWKHSUHFDVWFRQFUHWHXQLWVFDQEHPD[LPLVHG
DQGWKHEHDPVL]HSURYLGHVDGHTXDWHEHDULQJOHQJWKIRUWKHXQLWV
1
INTRODUCTION
ɹ 6KHDUFRQQHFWRUVFDQEHVKRSZHOGHGEHIRUHGHOLYHU\WRVLWH
ɹ 7KHRSWLPXPQXPEHURIVKHDUFRQQHFWRUVPD\EHSURYLGHGXQOLNHRWKHUFRPSRVLWH
EHDPVZKHUHWKHSLWFKRIWKHWURXJKVZLWKLQWKHSURÀOHGVWHHOGHFNLQJPD\GLFWDWH
WKHVWXGVSDFLQJ
ɹ 7KHSUHFDVWXQLWVKDYHDQDWXUDOSUHFDPEHUZKLFKRIIVHWVGHÁHFWLRQVGXHWRYDULDEOH
DFWLRQV7KHVWHHOEHDPVFDQDOVREHGHOLYHUHGZLWKDSUHFDPEHUIRUORQJVSDQDSSOLFDWLRQV
ɹ ¶'U\FRQVWUXFWLRQ·PD\EHXVHGLIWKHUHLVQRWRSSLQJ
1.3 Design considerations

7KHFRPELQHGXVHRIVWUXFWXUDOVWHHODQGSUHFDVWFRQFUHWHUHTXLUHVFDUHIXODWWHQWLRQ
DWWKHGHVLJQVWDJH7KHIROORZLQJLVVXHVPDQ\RIZKLFKDUHUHODWHGWRWKHGLIIHUHQW
LQGXVWULHVIURPZKLFKWKHFRPSRQHQWVDUHVRXUFHGVKRXOGEHWDNHQLQWRFRQVLGHUDWLRQ
ɹ 7KHGHVLJQVWDQGDUGVRUDEVHQFHRIVWDQGDUGVLQVRPHDUHDVIRUWKHXVHRIVWHHO

DQGSUHFDVWFRQFUHWHLQFRPELQDWLRQ
ɹ 7KHUHVSRQVLELOLWLHVIRUGHVLJQDQGLQVWDOODWLRQPD\QRWEHFOHDUO\GHÀQHGDWWKH
SUHOLPLQDU\GHVLJQVWDJH
ɹ 7KHVWDELOLW\RIWKHEHDPVGXULQJLQVWDOODWLRQRIWKHSUHFDVWXQLWVPXVWEHHQVXUHG
E\WHPSRUDU\RUSHUPDQHQWUHVWUDLQWVZKLFKVKRXOGEHSURSHUO\GHVLJQHG
ɹ %XLOGLQJ5HJXODWLRQUHTXLUHPHQWVIRUUREXVWQHVVDQGRWKHULVVXHVPXVWEHDGGUHVVHG
ɹ 7KHLQWHUDFWLRQEHWZHHQWKHVWHHOVXSSRUWEHDPVDQGKROORZFRUHVODEVPD\JLYH
ULVHWRVHFRQGDU\VWUHVVHVLQWKHVODEV
ɹ 7KHFRPSDWLELOLW\RIÀUHUHVLVWDQFHUHTXLUHPHQWVRIWKHVXSSRUWLQJVWHHOVWUXFWXUH
DQGWKHSUHFDVWFRQFUHWHÁRRULQJ
ɹ 7KHSURYLVLRQIRURSHQLQJVDQGVHFRQGDU\DWWDFKPHQWVWRWKHVODEPD\LQÁXHQFHWKH
GHVLJQRIWKHVODEDQGLWVVXSSRUWVWUXFWXUH
ɹ Communication of information between the design and construction teams, and
WKHFOLHQWWRHQVXUHHIÀFLHQWDQGVDIHFRQVWUXFWLRQ7KHXVHRI%XLOGLQJ,QIRUPDWLRQ
0RGHOOLQJ%,0PD\IDFLOLWDWHWKLV
:LWKDJURZLQJXVHRIWKH(XURFRGHVLQWKH8.LWLVWLPHO\WRXSGDWHSUHYLRXVGHVLJQ To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
JXLGDQFHRQSUHFDVWFRQFUHWHÁRRUV [1], particularly those relying on composite action

EHWZHHQWKHVWHHODQGFRQFUHWH
1.4 Scope of this publication

7KLVSXEOLFDWLRQFRYHUVWKHGHVLJQRIFRPSRVLWHEHDPVXVLQJSUHFDVWFRQFUHWHXQLWVRI
KROORZFRUHRUVROLGSODQNFURVVVHFWLRQ7KHIRUPVRIFRPSRVLWHEHDPFRQVLGHUHGDUH
GHVFULEHGLQ6HFWLRQ
Solid plank units are normally used with an in-situ topping, which enables composite
DFWLRQRIERWKSULPDU\DQGVHFRQGDU\VWHHOEHDPVWREHDFKLHYHG&RQYHUVHO\ZKHQ
hollow core units are used, only composite action with the secondary beams directly
VXSSRUWLQJWKHXQLWVLVSRVVLEOHGXHWRWKHRULHQWDWLRQRIWKHFRUHV
2
3DUWLFXODULVVXHVDGGUHVVHGLQWKLVJXLGDQFHDUH
ɹ (IIHFWLYHZLGWKRIWKHVODEIRUFRPSRVLWHDFWLRQ
ɹ 6KHDUFRQQHFWLRQDQGPLQLPXPGHJUHHRIVKHDUFRQQHFWLRQ
ɹ 7UDQVYHUVHUHLQIRUFHPHQWVLWHSODFHGUHLQIRUFHPHQWSHUSHQGLFXODUWRWKH
ORQJLWXGLQDOD[LVRIWKHEHDP
ɹ &RQVWUXFWLRQDOLVVXHVHJEHDULQJOHQJWKDQGJDSEHWZHHQWKHXQLWV
ɹ 7HPSRUDU\VWDELOLW\RIWKHEHDPVGXULQJLQVWDOODWLRQ
ɹ )LUHUHVLVWDQFHUHTXLUHPHQWV
ɹ 6HUYLFHDELOLW\SHUIRUPDQFH
ɹ 6WHHOZRUNFRQQHFWLRQVZKLFKDIIHFWVWDELOLW\GXULQJFRQVWUXFWLRQ
ɹ 7HPSRUDU\SURSSLQJRIEHDPVGXULQJFRQVWUXFWLRQ
1.5 Design basis

%XLOGLQJRQHDUOLHUZRUNE\6&, [1], this publication adopts and complements the design
UHFRPPHQGDWLRQVJLYHQLQ(1(XURFRGHIRUVWHHOEHDPVDQG(1(XURFRGH
IRUFRPSRVLWHEHDPV:KHUHFRPSOHPHQWDU\LQIRUPDWLRQLVJLYHQEHFDXVHWKHVFRSH
RI(1LVLQVXIÀFLHQWIRUFRQVWUXFWLRQLQFOXGLQJSUHFDVWXQLWVGHVLJQHTXDWLRQVDUH
EDVHGRQWKHSULQFLSOHVRIWKH(XURFRGHV$VDUHVXOWWKLVSXEOLFDWLRQPD\EHXVHGDV
VRFDOOHG1&&,DVSDUWRIDGHVLJQ¶LQDFFRUGDQFHZLWKWKH(XURFRGHV·,WLVWKH
H[SHFWDWLRQRIWKHDXWKRUVWKDWJXLGDQFHZLOOEHH[SOLFLWO\UHSUHVHQWHGLQDIXWXUH
YHUVLRQRI(XURFRGH
Design of the precast concrete units should be carried out in accordance with
(1[2]DQG(1>@
'HVLJQWRWKH(XURFRGHVLVEDVHGRQOLPLWVWDWHSULQFLSOHVLQZKLFKSDUWLDOIDFWRUVDUH
applied both to characteristic values of actions (loads) and to resistances; reduced values
RISDUWLDOIDFWRUVDUHDSSOLHGDWWKHVHUYLFHDELOLW\OLPLWVWDWH7KHYDOXHVRIWKHVHSDUWLDO
factors are nationally determined parameters and may vary between countries; values are
GHÀQHGLQWKHUHOHYDQW1DWLRQDO$QQH[WRWKHUHOHYDQW(XURFRGH3DUW
3
FORMS OF
CONSTRUCTION
,QWKLV6HFWLRQGLIIHUHQWW\SHVRIÁRRUV\VWHPXVLQJVWHHOEHDPVDQGSUHFDVWFRQFUHWH
XQLWVDUHGHVFULEHG$JHQHUDORYHUYLHZRIWKHUDQJHRISUHFDVWVODEVWKDWDUHDYDLODEOH
DQGWKHLULPSDFWRQWKHVL]LQJRIWKHVXSSRUWLQJEHDPVLVDOVRSUHVHQWHG
2.1 Generic forms

7KHUHDUHIRXUJHQHULFIRUPVRIVWHHOFRQVWUXFWLRQXVLQJSUHFDVWFRQFUHWH
ɹ 1RQFRPSRVLWHVWHHOEHDPVVXSSRUWLQJSUHFDVWVODEVRQWKHLUWRSÁDQJH
ɹ 1RQFRPSRVLWHVKDOORZÁRRUEHDPVVXSSRUWLQJSUHFDVWVODEVRQWKHLUORZHUÁDQJHRU
VKHOIDQJOHEHDPVVXSSRUWLQJWKHVODERQDQDQJOHFRQQHFWHGWRWKHZHERIWKHEHDP
ɹ &RPSRVLWHVWHHOEHDPVVXSSRUWLQJSUHFDVWKROORZFRUHRUVROLGSODQNVLQZKLFKWKH
WZRDFWFRPSRVLWHO\GXHWRVKHDUFRQQHFWRUVZHOGHGWRWKHWRSÁDQJHRIWKHEHDP
ɹ &RPSRVLWHVKDOORZÁRRUEHDPVVXSSRUWLQJSUHFDVWVODEVRQWKHLUORZHUÁDQJH
XVLQJDQin-situFRQFUHWHWRSSLQJDQGZHOGHGVKHDUFRQQHFWRUV
6RPHH[DPSOHVRISUHFDVWFRQFUHWHXQLWVXVHGLQFRPSRVLWHDSSOLFDWLRQVDUH
LOOXVWUDWHGLQ)LJXUHQRWHWKDWRQO\IRUPVZLWKGRZQVWDQGEHDPVDUHFRYHUHGE\
WKLVSXEOLFDWLRQ
Composite beam with square-ended Composite beam with chamfered-ended

hollow core slabs hollow core slabs
Figure 2.1
Different composite
Composite beam with precast planks Composite slim floor beam
applications of steel
and precast concrete
5
FORMS OF CONSTRUCTION
$W\SLFDOH[DPSOHRIFRPSRVLWHÁRRUFRQVWUXFWLRQXVLQJSUHFDVWXQLWVLVVKRZQLQ)LJXUH
Figure 2.2
A typical example
of composite
ÁRRUFRQVWUXFWLRQ
with precast
concrete units
2.2 Types of precast slab
7KHPRVWFRPPRQW\SHVRISUHFDVWFRQFUHWHVODEVXVHGLQFRQMXQFWLRQZLWKVWHHO
EHDPVDUH
ɹ +ROORZFRUHXQLWVRIWRPPGHSWKZLWKFRQWLQXRXVFLUFXODURUHORQJDWHG
RSHQLQJVDORQJWKHLUOHQJWKVHH)LJXUH
ɹ 6ROLGSODQNVRIWRPPGHSWKZKLFKDUHLQWHQGHGIRUXVHZLWKDQin-situ
FRQFUHWHWRSSLQJEHFDXVHWKHUXOHVDUHGHULYHGIURPWHVWVRQVLPLODUSURGXFWV
7KHJXLGDQFHLQWKLVSXEOLFDWLRQDSSOLHVRQO\WRWKHXVHRISUHFDVWXQLWVZLWKLQWKH
DERYHUDQJHVRIVL]H

+ROORZFRUHXQLWVGRQRWXVXDOO\UHTXLUHDQ\VWUXFWXUDOWRSSLQJH[FHSWSRVVLEO\
ZKHQXVHGZLWKVKDOORZÁRRUEHDPVRUZKHQGLDSKUDJPDFWLRQLVUHTXLUHGIRUWDOOHU
EXLOGLQJVRUIRUÀUHVDIHW\UHDVRQV
$ZLGHUDQJHRISUHFDVWVODESURGXFWVLVDYDLODEOHIURPYDULRXVPDQXIDFWXUHUV
0RVWSUHFDVWFRQFUHWHVODEVDUHSURGXFHGLQDSURFHVVLQZKLFKZLUHVRUVWUDQGVDUH
SUHWHQVLRQHGDQGKLJKVWUHQJWKFRQFUHWHLVFDVWDURXQGWKHPLQDIDFWRU\FRQWUROOHG
SURFHVVRIWHQLQYROYLQJRYHUPRIFRQWLQXRXVFDVWLQJ7ZRPHWKRGVRIFDVWLQJDUH
XVHGVOLSIRUPLQJDQGH[WUXGLQJ7KHHQGVRIWKHXQLWVFDQEHIRUPHGZLWKDFKDPIHU
GXULQJPDQXIDFWXUH
:KHQWKHFRQFUHWHKDVUHDFKHGLWVVSHFLÀHGVWUHQJWKRIWHQDIWHUDIHZKRXUV
WKHZLUHVRUVWUDQGVDUHUHOHDVHGIURPWKHLUDQFKRUDJHVDQGWKHXQLWVDUHFXWWRWKH
UHTXLUHGOHQJWK7KHSUHVWUHVVLQJIRUFHFDXVHVFRPSUHVVLRQLQWKHFRQFUHWHVHFWLRQ
ZKLFKLQFUHDVHVLWVEHQGLQJUHVLVWDQFHDQGVWLIIQHVV7KHGHVLJQRIWKHSUHFDVW
6
a. Non-circular cores
b. Circular cores
Figure 2.3 c. Elongated cores
Examples of
hollow core slabs
FRQFUHWHXQLWVLVKLJKO\FRPSOH[DQGGHWDLOHGGHVLJQIRUSDUWLFXODUDSSOLFDWLRQVLV
QRUPDOO\FDUULHGRXWE\WKHPDQXIDFWXUHU
2.3 Downstand beams

8QOHVVVSHFLDOSURYLVLRQVDUHPDGHWKHVWHHOEHDPVKRXOGEHDWOHDVWPPZLGH
VHH6HFWLRQLQRUGHUWRVXSSRUWWKHSUHFDVWXQLWVDQGWRDOORZVSDFHIRUWKH
FRQFUHWHHQFDVHPHQWDURXQGWKHVKHDUFRQQHFWRUV
2.4 Materials
6WUXFWXUDOVWHHOVKRXOGEHVXSSOLHGLQDFFRUGDQFHZLWK%6(1>@
0RVWVWUXFWXUDOVWHHOXVHGLQWKH8.LVJUDGH6
7KHGHVLJQUHVLVWDQFHRIKHDGHGVWXGVKHDUFRQQHFWRUVLVGHÀQHGLQ(1>@
7KHVWDQGDUGJLYHVUHVLVWDQFHVRIVWXGVLQVROLGVODEVSOXVUHGXFWLRQIDFWRUVWRDSSO\
ZKHQWKHVWXGVDUHXVHGLQVODEVEDVHGRQSURÀOHGVWHHOGHFNLQJ1RUHGXFWLRQIDFWRUV
DUHJLYHQIRUVWXGVLQVODEVZLWKSUHFDVWXQLWVIRUZKLFKFRPSOHPHQWDU\YDOXHVDUH
JLYHQLQWKLVSXEOLFDWLRQ7ZRFRPPRQGLDPHWHUVRIVWXGDUHXVHGPPIRUVLWHRU
IDFWRU\ZHOGLQJDQGPPXVXDOO\RQO\IRUIDFWRU\ZHOGLQJ)RUXVHZLWKKROORZFRUH
XQLWVWKH\DUHXVXDOO\VXSSOLHGPPORQJPPDVZHOGHGOHQJWKDOWKRXJK
RWKHUOHQJWKVWXGVPD\EHXVHG6WXGVDUHQRUPDOO\W\SH6'WR%6(1,62>@
7
FORMS OF CONSTRUCTION
,Q(1>@DQG(1>@WKHFRPSUHVVLYHVWUHQJWKRIFRQFUHWHLVJLYHQE\
LWVVWUHQJWKFODVVZKLFKUHODWHVWRWKHFKDUDFWHULVWLFF\OLQGHUVWUHQJWKDQGWKHFXEH
VWUHQJWKDWGD\V)RUH[DPSOH&GHQRWHVFRQFUHWHZLWKDF\OLQGHUVWUHQJWK
HTXDOWR1PPDQGDFXEHVWUHQJWKHTXDOWR1PP7KHFRQFUHWHJUDGHV
FRYHUHGE\(1DUH&WR&IRUQRUPDOZHLJKWFRQFUHWH
3UHFDVWXQLWVDUHSURGXFHGXVLQJGLIIHUHQWVSHFLÀFJUDGHVRIFRQFUHWHZLWKDF\OLQGHU
VWUHQJWKWKDWLVW\SLFDOO\EHWZHHQDQG1PPFXEHVWUHQJWKEHWZHHQDQG
1PP7KHPLQLPXPVSHFLÀHGF\OLQGHUVWUHQJWKRIWKHin-situFRQFUHWHVKRXOG
EHDWOHDVW1PPFXEH1PPDQGLWVPD[LPXPDJJUHJDWHVL]HLVQRUPDOO\
VSHFLÀHGDVPPWRIDFLOLWDWHSODFHPHQWRIFRQFUHWHEHWZHHQWKHXQLWV
6WHHOUHLQIRUFHPHQWEDUVVKRXOGFRQIRUPWR%6(1>@DQGWKHLU
GHVLJQSURSHUWLHVVKRXOGEHREWDLQHGZLWKUHIHUHQFHWR(1>@1RWHWKDW
IRUFRPSRVLWHVWUXFWXUHVWKHGHVLJQYDOXHRIWKHPRGXOXVRIHODVWLFLW\EsPD\EH
WDNHQDVHTXDOWRWKHYDOXHIRUVWUXFWXUDOVWHHOJLYHQLQ(1>@$FFRUGLQJWR
(1UHLQIRUFHPHQWVWHHOLVFODVVLÀHGDFFRUGLQJWRLWVGXFWLOLW\&ODVV$%RU&
DQGEDUVPD\EHHLWKHUVPRRWKRUULEEHGDFFRUGLQJWRVXUIDFHFKDUDFWHULVWLFV
+LJKHUGXFWLOLW\EDUV&ODVV%RU&RIRUPPGLDPHWHUDUHUHFRPPHQGHGIRU
FRPSRVLWHFRQVWUXFWLRQ)RUFDVHVZKHQSDUWLDOVKHDUFRQQHFWLRQLVHPSOR\HG
PPGLDPHWHUEDUVVKRXOGEHSURYLGHG
8
9
PRACTICAL
CONSIDERATIONS
Prior to embarking on a detailed design of a composite beam using hollow core units
RUVROLGSODQNVZLWKDFRQFUHWHWRSSLQJWKHIROORZLQJSUDFWLFDOLVVXHVVKRXOGÀUVWEH
considered by the engineer:
ɹ Shop-welding or site-welding of shear connectors.

ɹ Minimum beam width.
ɹ End conditions of hollow core units.
ɹ Positioning of transverse reinforcement.
ɹ Detailing of edge beams.
ɹ Temporary stability during installation of concrete units.
ɹ ‘Robustness’ against accidental design situations.
Due to the orientation of the cores, hollow core units can be designed to act compositely
only with the supporting secondary beams. Because solid plank units are normally used
with an in-situ topping, both the secondary and primary beams may be assumed to act
compositely with the slab.
3.1 Minimum beam width

The minimum beam width required depends on:
ɹ the type of slab;

ɹ whether the shear connectors are shop-welded or site-welded;
ɹ and whether the beam is an internal or edge beam. To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
The width chosen must also take account of manufacturing and construction tolerances.
3.1.1 Minimum bearing

Four factors affect the size of the actual end bearing of precast units on a steel beam:
ɹ The nominal bearing length.

ɹ Variations in the size and position of the steelwork.
ɹ Length variations in the manufacture of the units.
ɹ The accuracy with which the units can be positioned on site.
Although it is possible, with time and effort, to quantify each of these factors separately,
a simple summation will be excessively conservative. A global overview of how deviations
might reasonably combine should be considered. Such an approach was followed by
11
PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
the PFF in their 2013 Code of Practice for: The Safe Installation of Precast Concrete
Flooring and Associated Components [9], which concluded by recommending a minimum
of 75 mm nominal bearing length. This value is based on:
ɹ 40 mm minimum bearing for the precast slabs.

ɹ A manufacturing tolerance of 12 mm.
ɹ A construction tolerance equal to the greater of 15 mm or 3 mm for each metre length.
The PFF Code notes that “where shear studs for composite action … are provided then
the bearing length shall be adjusted accordingly”.
In some cases it is possible, by requiring tighter tolerances on both the manufacturing

and construction elements, to reduce the nominal bearing to 50 mm. However, this
should only be done in consultation and agreement with the precast manufacturer and
the steelwork providers.
3.1.2 Flange width

The (nominal) minimum gap between the ends of the units should normally not be
less than:
ɹ PPIRUVLWHZHOGHGVKHDUFRQQHFWRUVWRDOORZVXIÀFLHQWVSDFHIRUWKHZHOGLQJ
tool (65 mm) whilst recognising up to 10 mm excess bearing of the precast units
on each side.
ɹ 70 mm for shop-welded shear connectors, to allow for concrete placement around
the shear connectors (50 mm), and up to 10 mm excess bearing.
7KHPLQLPXPEHDPÁDQJHZLGWKVKRXOGEHHTXDOWRWKLVPLQLPXPJDSEHWZHHQWKH
units, plus the required minimum nominal bearing lengths.
7KHPLQLPXPEHDPÁDQJHZLGWKLVQRUPDOO\WKHUHIRUH
ɹ For site-welded shear connectors 85 2 u 75 235 mm

ɹ For shop-welded shear connectors 70 2 u 75 220 mm

When (as noted above) special provisions are made so that the nominal bearing can be
reduced to 50 mm, then:
ɹ For shop-welded shear connectors 70 2 u 50 170 mm
3.2 Welding of shear connectors

Headed stud shear connectors of 19 mm diameter may be welded on site or in the
factory, but larger diameter (22 or 25 mm) studs are only normally welded in the
factory, because of the high electrical power input that is required. In practice, most
shear connectors are welded in the factory.
6KHDUFRQQHFWRUVPXVWEHRIVXIÀFLHQWKHLJKWWRSURMHFWDERYHWKHVROLGSODQNVRU
the reinforcement in the hollow core units, and so develop composite action with the
in-situ concrete. The minimum 50 mm gap noted above is to ensure that there will be
12
VXIÀFLHQWVSDFHDURXQGWKHVWXGVWRDOORZIRUHIIHFWLYHSODFHPHQWRIWKHFRQFUHWH
7KHVKHDUUHVLVWDQFHRIWKHFRQQHFWRUVLVLQÁXHQFHGE\WKHJDSEHWZHHQWKHHQGVRI
WKHSUHFDVWXQLWVDVLGHQWLÀHGLQ6HFWLRQ
For welding on site, a generator is used with a local control unit. A minimum (as built)
JDSRIPPLVUHTXLUHGLQRUGHUWRÀWWKHZHOGLQJJXQEHWZHHQWKHFRQFUHWHXQLWV,Q
WKHFDVHRIZHOGLQJRQVLWHWKHWRSÁDQJHRIWKHEHDPPXVWEHXQSDLQWHGDQGIUHHRI
moisture, dirt and mill-scale.
Welding in the factory is preferred, especially where the beam is to be galvanized or

painted before delivery to site. It is not necessary to remove the galvanized or paint
FRDWLQJIURPWKHVKHDUFRQQHFWRUVDOWKRXJKWKHWRSÁDQJHRIWKHEHDPVKRXOGEHIUHH
of all coatings when the shear connectors are welded.
3.3 Factory preparation of the ends of hollow core units
3.3.1 Square-ended units

No special factory preparation is required for square-ended units. In these circumstances,
sawn ended units may be used.
3.3.2 Chamfered-ended units
The ends of the hollow core units can be chamfered to facilitate a smaller gap between
the units. This is normally carried out during the manufacturing process.
A chamfer removing a maximum of 85 mm from the top of the slab, over a horizontal
length of approximately 250 mm, is typical. The formation of the taper should be
FDUHIXOO\FRQWUROOHGWRHQVXUHWKDWWKHUHLVVXIÀFLHQWGHSWKRIVODEOHIWDWWKHVXSSRUW
to resist vertical shear forces that may be applied during construction, including those
due to the weight of any in-situ topping.
7KHVKHDUFRQQHFWRUVGRQRWQHHGWRSURMHFWDERYHWKHFKDPIHUHGHQGVEXWVXIÀFLHQW

transverse reinforcement (see Section 3.4) must be placed below the level of the
heads of the shear connectors.
3.3.3 Opened hollow cores

7KHWRSVRIDVSHFLÀHGQXPEHURIKROORZFRUHVXVXDOO\WKUHHRUIRXUSHUXQLWHQG
should be opened up so that transverse reinforcement may be placed within them.
Typically, this opening up operation is carried out during manufacture.
7KHRSHQLQJRIWZRDGMDFHQWFRUHVVKRXOGEHDYRLGHGDVLWLVGLIÀFXOWWRSUHVHUYHWKH
integrity of the chamfered rib between them. It is advisable not to open the outer core
for a similar reason. Also, the outer rib is liable to slump, thereby making it vulnerable
to damage during handling and erection.
The void at the back of each opened core is blocked with concrete during manufacture;
the other cores are normally blocked using a polystyrene bung. For shallow, chamfered-
13
ended units, the ends of the other cores may be blocked with concrete during the
formation of the chamfered ends.
The layout of the units should be planned to ensure that the opened cores are reasonably
aligned, in order to allow correct placing of the transverse reinforcement bars.
3.4 Placing of transverse reinforcement

Reinforcing bars are placed in the opened hollow cores, perpendicular to the longitudinal
D[LVRIWKHEHDP)RUJRRGFRPSRVLWHDFWLRQWKHEDUVPXVWEHORFDWHGDVXIÀFLHQWGLVWDQFH
(15 mm) below the heads of the shear connectors. Although EN 1994-1-1, 6.6.5.1
imposes a requirement for mesh (fabric) to be at least 30 mm below the heads of the
studs, this clause is not directly applicable to applications using precast units as it directly
relates to solid slabs with two layers of fabric. The base of a core is normally between
DQGPPDERYHWKHVRIÀWVRDFKLHYLQJVXIÀFLHQWGLVWDQFHLVQRWDSUREOHPIRU
hollow core units.
The recommended minimum bar sizes, for transverse reinforcement, are shown in Table 3.1.
SLAB DEPTH BAR SIZES
Solid Planks T10 @ 300 mm centres plus A142 fabric reinforcement
Table 3.1 Hollow Core Units

Recommended T12 @ 200 to 350 mm centres*
(up to 200 mm deep)
minimum bar sizes
for transverse Hollow Core Units
T16 @ 200 to 350 mm centres
(up to 260 mm deep)
reinforcement
* 16 mm diameter bars should be provided if partial shear connection is used.
When hollow core units are used the spacing of the bars should be such that bars are
placed in alternate cores. However, the spacing between the bars should not exceed
350 mm. The shear connectors are often placed at 120 to 225 mm centres along the
beam, and so do not align directly with these bars (see Figure 3.1). Lacer bars are
often required to support the transverse bars at the correct height (above the base of To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
WKHFRUHDOORZLQJVSDFHIRULQÀOOFRQFUHWH7KHOHQJWKRIWKHWUDQVYHUVHUHLQIRUFHPHQW
VKRXOGEHDWOHDVWPPSOXVWKHJDSZLGWKVRWKDWLWSURYLGHVVXIÀFLHQWDQFKRUDJH
200 to 350
Figure 3.1
Longitudinal view
of transverse a. Longitudinal view of filled hollow cores
reinforcement
14
Typical spacing
120 to 225
Transverse
reinforcement
Figure 3.1 b. Longitudinal view of shear connectors

(continued)
LQWKHÀOOHGKROORZFRUHVVHH)LJXUH+RZHYHUORQJHUVWUDLJKWEDUVRU/EDUV

PD\EHQHFHVVDU\WRVDWLVI\ÀUHFRQGLWLRQV6HH6HFWLRQ
For deep (relative to stud height) solid planks, bars may be bent down below the
heads of the shear connectors, and may be detailed to coincide with the stud spacing.
For shallow solid precast planks, fabric reinforcement may be used in addition to the
bar reinforcement if additional area is required.
Note: The above recommendations on bar size and spacing of transverse
reinforcement are based on test specimens using hollow core
units with cores at a particular range of pitches [10]. It may be
possible to increase the spacing of the transverse reinforcement
LIMXVWLÀHGE\WHVWVWKDWGHPRQVWUDWHDGHTXDWHUHVLVWDQFHDQG
deformation capacity.
Be
500 infill 500 infill
Bars 12 mm or
16 mm diameter
1000 mm long
Square end Chamfered end
a. Cross-section at filled hollow core
Be
Figure 3.2
Cross-section
through the hollow Square end Chamfered end
cores (shaded area
indicates extent of b. Cross-section at unfilled hollow core
FRQFUHWHLQÀOO
15
3.5 Detailing of edge beams

Edge beams require special consideration because:
ɹ They are normally required to act as peripheral ties.

ɹ They often transfer diaphragm forces into vertical bracing.
ɹ Cladding attachments can cause eccentricity of loadings (although they often
balance other loads).
ɹ 'HÁHFWLRQOLPLWVDUHRIWHQVWULFWHUWKDQIRULQWHUQDOEHDPV
lb ≥ 32 φ
6 φ sc
35 min.
U-bar
f ( φ ≥ 12 mm)
φ
Filled hollow core
Nominal bearing
55 to 60 mm
Minimum flange
width = 230 mm
a. Composite edge beam
Peripheral
Chamfered end of reinforcement
hollow core unit (if required)
U-bar
( φ ≥ 12 mm)
Studs (preferable site-welded)

through openings pre-formed
in precast units
Minimum flange
width = 120 mm
Figure 3.3 b. Non-composite edge beam
Detailing of composite (as peripheral ties)
and non-composite
edge beams
16
For practical purposes, edge beams are normally designed as non-composite, so that a
similar section size to that used for the (composite) internal beams may be employed.
+RZHYHULQWKHVHFDVHVVXIÀFLHQWW\LQJDFWLRQPXVWVWLOOEHSURYLGHGLQRUGHUIRUWKHVH
members to act as peripheral ties and to transfer in-plane forces.
Should a composite design of an edge beam be desired, in the absence of

experimental data, comparison with in-situ slab composite applications suggests
WKDWDPLQLPXPHGJHGLVWDQFHRIWKHVKHDUFRQQHFWRUVDQGVXIÀFLHQWWUDQVYHUVH
UHLQIRUFHPHQWPXVWEHSURYLGHG'HÀQLQJDQHGJHEHDPDVRQHZKHUHWKHFRQFUHWH
ÁDQJHH[WHQGVOHVVWKDQPPEH\RQGWKHFHQWUHOLQHRIWKHQHDUHVWURZRIVWXGV
EN 1994-1-1, 6.6.5.3(2) requires the distance from the centre line of the studs to
the free edge of the slab to be at least six times the diameter of the studs, in order to
ensure effective composite action (see Figure 3.3). This corresponds to 115 mm for
19 mm diameter studs.
EN 1994-1-1[5] also states that U-bars must be placed around the studs to provide
effective transverse reinforcement and tying action (see Figure 3.4). These U-bars
should be of minimum diameter equal to half the diameter of the shear studs, and
VKRXOGEHDQFKRUHGLQHDFKÀOOHGKROORZFRUH
Figure 3.4
U-bars placed
around the studs to
an edge beam
17
3.6 Temporary stability

7KHVWDELOLW\RIWKHVWHHOEHDPVGXULQJWKHHUHFWLRQRIWKHÁRRUXQLWVDQGWKH
placement of the structural topping, must be considered. The designer should take
GXHDFFRXQWRIWKHÁRRUHUHFWLRQSURFHVVZKLFKZLOOXVXDOO\UHTXLUHHUHFWLRQLQ¶ED\V·
to avoid excessive re-siting of the crane). Should a particular sequence of erection or
WHPSRUDU\VXSSRUWEHQHFHVVDU\WKLVVKRXOGEHQRWHGLQWKHVSHFLÀFDWLRQDQGRQWKH
drawings. The placement of the precast concrete units should be carefully controlled in
order that out-of-balance construction loads are kept within the limits assumed in the
beam design (see Section 4).
When the slab of a composite beam is formed from in-situFRQFUHWHWKHWRSÁDQJHRI

the steel beam will normally be restrained during construction, either by adequately
À[HGGHFNLQJVSDQQLQJWUDQVYHUVHWRWKHEHDPLQZKLFKFDVHLWKDVLQSODQHVWLIIQHVV
or by the secondary beams that support longitudinal decking at 3 to 4 m centres.
When precast units are used, provided they are of equal span to either side of the
beam they may be assumed to provide restraint through a combination of restoring
moment (as illustrated in Figure 3.5) and friction for beam spans up to 500/3 times
the unit’s bearing width. This means that spans up to 8 m may typically be assumed to
be restrained [11].
wd
wd
Restoring moment
= wd b
Figure 3.5
Restoring moment due
to balanced loading
For edge beams one may imagine a special case of a non-composite beam in which the
SUHFDVWXQLWLVVXSSRUWHGE\WKHHQWLUHZLGWKRIWKHVWHHOÁDQJH)LJXUHE,QVXFK
cases full lateral restraint is provided, and indeed torsional effects may be ignored.
A 300 mm section of the slab is broken-out to facilitate the shear connectors and
placing of U-bars.
,IWKHWRSÁDQJHFDQQRWEHDVVXPHGWREHKHOGLQSODFHE\WKHXQLWVWKHQVSHFLÀF
restraints must be provided. Such restraints should be capable of resisting a force
HTXDOWRRIWKHIRUFHLQWKHFRPSUHVVLRQÁDQJH
18
As well as the possible need to provide structural restraint to the beam to prevent
torsional modes of failure, it may be necessary to provide temporary restraints to
KROGWKHWRSÁDQJHLQSRVLWLRQGXULQJSODFHPHQWRIWKHSUHFDVWXQLWV7KHSUHFLVH
requirement will depend on a number of variables, in particular the lateral stiffness
RIWKHEHDP$UHFRJQLVHGUXOHRIWKXPELVWRSODFHWLHVEHWZHHQFRPSUHVVLRQÁDQJHV
DWDPLQLPXPVSDFLQJRIIRUW\WLPHVWKHEHDPÁDQJHZLGWK7LHVEHWZHHQWKHWHQVLRQ
ÁDQJHVDUHLQVXIÀFLHQWWRSUHYHQWWRUVLRQXQOHVVFRPELQHGZLWKD8IUDPHRURWKHU
measures (see Figure 3.6).
wd wd
e ≤ 12 t w
Figure 3.6
Lateral restraint a. Lateral restraint to top flange b. Lateral restraint to both flanges
to beams during by U-frame action
construction
)RUFDVHVZKHQWKHZLGWKRIWKHWRSÁDQJHRIWKHEHDPLVVXFKWKDWDODUJHJDS
between the ends of the hollow core units occurs (particularly in cases where shear
FRQQHFWRUVDUHWREHVLWHZHOGHGLWLVUHFRPPHQGHGWKDWWKHMRLQWVDORQJWKHVLGHV
of the units be grouted after each unit has been correctly positioned; this is to ensure
WKDWWKHSRVVLELOLW\RIDFFLGHQWDOGDPDJHDULVLQJIURPWKHLQVWDOODWLRQRIWKHDGMDFHQW
unit is minimised.
19
DESIGN OF THE BEAMS
The design of the beams should commence by verifying the steel sections for the
WRUVLRQDODQGEHQGLQJPRPHQWVGHYHORSHGGXULQJWKHFRQVWUXFWLRQVWDJH9HULÀFDWLRQV
are carried out in accordance with EN 1993-1-1[8]. Having established the adequacy
of the steel section for this stage, the composite design should follow the general
principles presented in EN 1994-1-1[5], taking account of:
ɹ Effective width of the slab.

ɹ Bending resistance.
ɹ Shear connection (and minimum degree of shear connection).
ɹ Transverse reinforcement.
ɹ Serviceability requirements.
4.1 Construction stage
Two distinct phases need to be considered when verifying the bare steel beam for the
construction stage. Firstly the phase during which the precast units are put in place,
and during which (depending on the sequence of placement and the span of the units
WRHLWKHUVLGHRIDJLYHQEHDPWKHEHDPPD\EHVXEMHFWWRVLJQLÀFDQWXQEDODQFHG
loading because the units act eccentrically to the beam’s centroid. Secondly the phase
when all the units are in place and the weight of any in-situ topping, plus the variable
construction loads, must be allowed for. During this second phase, provided there
DUHSUHFDVWXQLWVWRHLWKHUVLGHWKDWDUHRIHTXDOVSDQWKHEHDPZLOOEHYHULÀHGIRU
balanced loading. There is no need to consider ‘pattern loading’ with the construction To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
loads placed to one side only.
For the special case of a non-composite edge beam in which the precast unit is
VXSSRUWHGE\WKHHQWLUHZLGWKRIWKHVWHHOÁDQJH)LJXUHEWRUVLRQDOHIIHFWV
may be ignored [11].
Any unbalanced loading will subject the beam to combined bending and torsion, for
ZKLFKERWKFURVVVHFWLRQDQGPHPEHUYHULÀFDWLRQVVKRXOGEHFDUULHGRXW
%RWKXOWLPDWHOLPLWVWDWH8/6DQGVHUYLFHDELOLW\OLPLWVWDWH6/6YHULÀFDWLRQVPXVWEH

undertaken. These are presented in separate sections below.
21
DESIGN OF THE BEAMS

4.1.1 Actions on steel beams

According to EN 1991 the construction loads on a steel beam may include the three
components Qk,1a, Qk,1b and Qk,1c, where:
Qk,1a is the construction load for personnel and heaping of concrete topping in a
3 m uPZRUNLQJDUHD7KLVFRQVWUXFWLRQORDGLQJFRYHUVWKHDFWLRQGHÀQHG
in EN 1991-1-6, 4.11 as Qca, which is ‘personnel and hand tools’, and Qcf,
ZKLFKLVGHÀQHGDV¶ORDGVIURPSDUWVRIDVWUXFWXUHLQDWHPSRUDU\VWDWH·
A value of at least 0.75 kN/m2 is recommended in EN 1994 although
clearly this will be conservative for slabs formed by precast units as it is
intended for the more general case where all the concrete is poured in-situ.
Qk,1b is the construction load across the full area (0.75 kN/m2). This general load
is also stated as covering Qca.
Qk,1c is the weight of the wet concrete topping, applied across the full area.
This general load is stated as covering Qcc, ‘Non permanent equipment’
and Qcf, ‘Loads from part of a structure in a temporary state’.
However, as it is unlikely that the construction load for personnel of 0.75 kN/m2 (Qk,1b)
will be present over the whole of the area supported by the beam during the casting
of the concrete topping, it is suggested that, with good site control, the load due to the
3 m u 3 m working area (Qk,1a) could be neglected (it is worth noting that the Qk,1b value
of 0.75 kN/m2 is already 50% greater than the value that has traditionally been used in
the UK). The designer should make the contractor aware of the assumptions made and
the importance of good site practice.
Combination of actions
Ultimate limit state
Considering EN 1990, expressions 6.10, 6.10a and 6.10b, the most onerous case
is given by 6.10a. Based on this fundamental combination of actions and the partial
factor values given in the UK national annexes, the combination of actions to be
considered for the beam during construction is: To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
1.35Gk,1a,sup 1.35Gk,1b,sup 1.5Qk,1b 1.5Qk,1c
where
Gk,1a,sup is the self-weight of the precast units
Gk,1b,sup is the self-weight of the beam.
For the unbalanced condition, as noted above, some actions will not be present.
Serviceability limit state
For serviceability considerations the following combination of actions is recommended:
Gk,1a,sup Gk,1b,sup Qk,1c
22
4.1.2 Out-of-balance condition (ULS)

When the installation sequence of the precast units results in an out-of-balance load
the supporting beam will be subject to combined bending and torsion .
The following checks may be carried out using the bending moment and shear
force values determined from an elastic global analysis. For torsional effects,
EN 1993-1-1, 6.2.7(3) permits the values of Tt,Ed and Tw,Ed (St Venant torsional moment
and warping torsional moment) to be determined by elastic analysis. Clause 6.2.7(7)
DOORZVWKHVLPSOLÀFDWLRQRIQHJOHFWLQJ6W9HQDQWWRUVLRQIRUDQRSHQVHFWLRQ7KLV
VLPSOLÀFDWLRQDYRLGVWKHSURFHVVRIGHWHUPLQLQJWKHUHODWLYHPDJQLWXGHVRIWKHWZR
types of torsional moment, although it can be conservative for long, open section
members (where warping resistance is very small).
$WWKHXOWLPDWHOLPLWVWDWH(1UHTXLUHVYHULÀFDWLRQRIWKHUHVLVWDQFHRIWKH
cross-section and resistance against buckling of the member. The latter requirement
means that lateral torsional buckling resistance needs to be determined, taking into
account any interaction with torsional effects.
At the serviceability limit state, EN 1993-1-1 and the UK National Annex only refer to
FRPSOLDQFHZLWKOLPLWVRQGHÁHFWLRQDQGYLEUDWLRQ7KHUHLVQRUHTXLUHPHQWWROLPLW
stresses at the serviceability limit state (SLS).
Resistance of cross-sections
According to EN 1993-1-1, 6.2.5, the bending resistance of Class 1 and 2 cross-
sections may be taken as the plastic moment resistance. Class 3 sections can only
use the elastic bending resistance. The shear resistance for rolled sections can usually
be taken as the plastic shear resistance, since such sections are not limited by shear
buckling. Bending resistance can be reduced by the presence of a high shear force,
according to EN 1993-1-1, 6.2.8; biaxial bending is considered in EN 1993-1-1, 6.2.9.
Where torsional effects are also present, Clause 6.2.7(1) simply requires that TEd /TRd d 1

but does not give a rule for evaluating TRd in the presence of bending. Additionally,
Clause 6.2.7(4) says that the stresses due to torsion should be taken into account,
ZLWKRXWEHLQJVSHFLÀFDERXWKRZWKH\DUHWREHWDNHQLQWRDFFRXQW(1
VD\VWKDWIRUHODVWLFYHULÀFDWLRQWKH\LHOGFULWHULRQRI&ODXVHPD\EH
used; but where the section is Class 1 or 2, which most rolled I and H sections are,
in bending, the designer will often want to use the plastic bending resistance.
EN 1993-1-1, 6.2.7(6) does cover the plastic bending resistance when torsion is
present but it only says that the torsion effects BEd (by which it must be presumed
that it refers only to the stresses due to warping torsion, not the shear stresses
due to St Venant torsion) should be determined by elastic analysis; it does not offer
an interaction criterion. In practice, at positions of maximum bending moment the
torsional moment is usually wholly warping torsional moment, with no St Venant
torsional moment, so the latter does not need to be considered.
23
DESIGN OF THE BEAMS

Elastic verification
From either a detailed evaluation of the interaction between warping and St Venant
torsion, see guidance in P385 [12]RUWKHVLPSOLÀFDWLRQVDOORZHGLQ(1
direct and shear stresses can be determined at critical cross-sections.
Typical stress patterns for an open section beam loaded eccentrically at midspan are
shown diagrammatically in Figure 4.1 and Figure 4.2 .
σ y = M y /W el,y
σ w = Mw /( t f b 2/6)
σ z = φ My / Wel,z
Peak stress
σy+ σw+ σ z
Stresses viewed
separately . . . .
. . . . and in
combination
Area enlarged
in main view
Figure 4.1
kg
Longitudinal stresses
in an eccentrically
loaded beam shown
separately and in
combination
7KHPD[LPXPGLUHFWORQJLWXGLQDOVWUHVVHVRFFXUDWWKHWLSVRIWKHÁDQJHV$WWKHVH

locations the shear stress is zero (where there is warping restraint, the St Venant shear
VWUHVVHVZLOOJHQHUDOO\EHQHJOLJLEOHDQGHVSHFLDOO\VRDWWKHWLSV7KHYHULÀFDWLRQ
according to EN 1993-1-1, 6.2.9.2 may be performed. For an open section, the
criterion may be expressed in terms of moments:
My,Ed Mz,Ed Mw,Ed

+ + ≤ 1.0
Mel,y,Rd Mel,z,Rd Mf,Rd
24
where:
Mz,Ed IMy,Ed
Mw,Ed rEIf Is(h tf )/2 for bi-symmetric I sections, with If§Iz /2 (for the general
expression refer to P385)
Ic and Is DUHWKHÀUVWDQGVHFRQGGHULYDWLYHVRIWKHDQJOHRIURWDWLRQI with respect to
distance x along the member [12]
Mf,Rd §Mel,z,Rd /2
τ = VA z /I y
τ w = ES w1 φ ′′′/ t f
τ +τ w
Figure 4.2
Shear stresses due to
bending and warping
in the beam
6KHDUVWUHVVHVGXHWRZDUSLQJWRUVLRQDUHYHU\UDUHO\VLJQLÀFDQW7KHWUDQVYHUVHVKHDU

force due to warping restraint is usually much less than the (transverse) plastic shear
UHVLVWDQFHRIWKHÁDQJHDQGPD\EHQHJOHFWHGDVSHUPLWWHGE\(1
Shear stress due to St Venant torsion will give rise to a small reduction in the plastic
shear resistance of the web (6.2.7(9)). To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
Plastic verification
Designers will usually wish to utilize the plastic bending resistance of Class 1 and 2
cross-sections, for economy. Where there is torsion, direct and shear stresses will
usually have been determined elastically. It is therefore necessary to consider the
SRWHQWLDOHIIHFWRIWKHSODVWLÀFDWLRQGXHWREHQGLQJRQWKLVGHWHUPLQDWLRQRIWRUVLRQDO
PRPHQWVDQGRQYHULÀFDWLRQRIUHVLVWDQFH
:KHUHWKHVLPSOLÀFDWLRQDOORZHGE\(1IRURSHQVHFWLRQVKDVEHHQ
adopted, the torsional moment is assumed to be resisted by warping torsion alone;
WKHZDUSLQJPRPHQWLQWKHÁDQJHLVWKHQHDVLO\GHWHUPLQHG0LQRUD[LVEHQGLQJGXH
to the twist of the section (i.e. Mz,Ed IMy,Ed) must also be taken into account but a
note of caution must be given about the value of the rotation of the beam when plastic
25
DESIGN OF THE BEAMS

UHVLVWDQFHRIWKHÁDQJHLVXWLOL]HGWKHURWDWLRQZLOOEHJUHDWHUWKDQWKHHODVWLFYDOXH
An allowance for increased rotation should be made, depending on the situation.
Where the interaction between St Venant torsion and warping torsion has been
determined according to elastic theory [12]LWZRXOGVHHPREYLRXVWKDWSODVWLÀFDWLRQGXH
to combined major axis bending and warping moment would affect the sharing of the
torsional moment. However its effect is to reduce the warping stiffness (effectively reducing
the value of a) and thus to lead to a reduced value of warping moment. The value of
Mw,Ed determined by the elastic analysis may thus be used as a conservative value.
+RZHYHUWKHSODVWLÀFDWLRQZLOODOVROHDGWRDVOLJKWO\ODUJHUURWDWLRQDVQRWHGDERYH
and this should be taken into account when determining the minor axis moment
due to rotation.
Where plastic bending resistance is to be utilized, a plastic interaction criterion can

be used and the criterion in EN 1993-1-1 Expression (6.41) may be adapted for this
purpose; assuming that there is no axial force on the beam the criterion is:
My,Ed 2 Mz,Ed Mw,Ed

+ + ≤ 1.0
Mpl,y,Rd Mpl,z,Rd Mpl,f,Rd
where Mpl,f,Rd§Mpl,z,Rd /2.
Note that this criterion is for a bi-symmetric I or H section only (see P385 for other
types of open section).
The (transverse) shear force due to warping restraint is usually much less than the
WUDQVYHUVHSODVWLFVKHDUUHVLVWDQFHRIWKHÁDQJHDQGPD\EHQHJOHFWHGDVSHUPLWWHG
by EN 1993-1-1, 6.2.10. Shear stress due to St Venant torsion will give rise to a small
reduction in the plastic shear resistance of the web, according to Clause 6.2.7(9).
Member buckling resistance

:KHUHEXFNOLQJRIDPHPEHUFDQRFFXUWKHEXFNOLQJUHVLVWDQFHPXVWEHYHULÀHG
Interaction of lateral torsional buckling with torsion is not covered in EN 1993-1-1 but
this omission has been addressed in EN 1993-6 (concerned with crane supporting
structures). In its Annex A, which may be used for any simply supported beam of
uniform cross-section that is subject to torsion, it gives a criterion in which the torsional
effect and resistance are expressed as the bimoment, but it is perhaps more helpful to
re-express the criterion as:
My,Ed CmzMz,Ed kwkzwkαMw,Ed

+ + ≤ 1.0
Mb,Rd Mz,Rd Mw,Rd
in which:
Cmz is the equivalent uniform moment factor for bending about the z-axis
according to EN 1993-1-1, Table B.3. (For a simply supported beam with a
26
parabolic bending moment diagram due to UDL Cmz 0.95; for a triangular
bending moment diagram due to a single point load Cmz 0.9. It may be
conservatively taken as 1.0)
kw 0.7 0.2 Mw,Ed /Mw,Rd (may be conservatively taken as 0.7)
kzw 1 Mz,Ed /Mz,Rd (may be conservatively taken as 1.0)
kĮ 1/[1 – My,Ed /Mcr]
Mcr is the elastic critical moment about the y-axis, discussed below
Mw,Ed LVDVGHÀQHGDERYH
Mw,Rd LVWKHGHVLJQEHQGLQJUHVLVWDQFHLQWKHZHDNHUÁDQJH
As noted earlier, bending about the minor axis will result from twist of the section
( IMy,Ed) and this needs to be included in Mz,Ed.
The design buckling resistance about the major axis is:
Mb,Rd FLTMy,Rd
where:
FLT is the reduction factor for lateral-torsional buckling.
%HDPVZLWKVXIÀFLHQWUHVWUDLQWWRWKHFRPSUHVVLRQÁDQJHDUHQRWVXVFHSWLEOHWR
lateral-torsional buckling (FLT 1.0). It should be noted that for downstand beams
supporting precast units, should the beam begin to fail in lateral torsional buckling a
restoring moment would develop from the couple between the precast unit reactions
(see Figure 3.5). In these circumstances, it may be assumed that the beam is fully
laterally restrained for spans less than, or equal to, 500/3 u precast unit bearing
width [11] (typically about 8 m).
EN 1993-1-1 provides lateral torsional buckling curves for both the ‘general case’
and ‘for rolled sections’ (including ‘equivalent welded sections’, although the latter
are excluded according to the UK National Annex). The rules for the general case are
not covered in this guide - reference may be made to EN 1993-1-1, 6.3.2.2 and the
National Annex. To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
For rolled sections of constant cross-section in bending, the value of FLT for the appropriate
non-dimensional slenderness λLT should be determined from Clause 6.3.2.3 and NA 2.17:
1
FLT but FLT d 1
φ LT + φ 2LT − βλ 2LT
where:
ILT 0.5 [1 + αLT (λ LT − λ LT,0 ) + βλ 2LT]
λ LT,0 0.4 for rolled sections
E 0.75 for rolled sections
Wy fy
λLT
Mcr
Wy LVWKHDSSURSULDWHVHFWLRQPRGXOXVIRUWKHVHFWLRQFODVVLÀFDWLRQ
27
DESIGN OF THE BEAMS

The value of the imperfection factor DLT depends on the buckling curve to be used.
Table 4.1 gives recommendations for the selection of an appropriate curve, plus
corresponding values of DLT.
CROSS-SECTION LIMITS
BUCKLING
CURVE DLT
Table 4.1 h/b d 2 b 0.34

Rolled doubly symmetric I and H sections,
Recommendations
and hot finished hollow sections 2 h/b d 3.1 c 0.49
for the selection
of lateral torsional h/b ! 3.1 d 0.76
buckling curve
Unfortunately EN 1993-1-1 does not give an expression to allow evaluation of Mcr,

although a number of software tools are available. Alternative methods are
described in P360 [11].
Relationships between FLT and λLT are shown in graphical and tabular form in P360.
Stabilizing and destabilizing loads

Torsion is more often than not the result of eccentric loading. Generally, it is preferable
to arrange for such loading to be applied at or below the level of the shear centre,
the axis about which the member twists, to avoid the secondary effect of increasing
eccentricity as the cross-section rotates.
The unfavourable effect of load application above the shear centre (‘destabilizing’
load), as occurs when precast units are supported on downstand beams, must not
be ignored. The effect of destabilising load can be accounted for by repeating the
YHULÀFDWLRQXVLQJDPDJQLÀHGHFFHQWULFLW\GHWHUPLQHGIURPWKHFDOFXODWHGURWDWLRQ
$VLQJOHLWHUDWLRQLVQRUPDOO\VXIÀFLHQW
Destabilizing load also affects the elastic critical moment.

4.1.3 Out-of-balance condition (SLS)
EN 1990 sets out the principle that ‘serviceability criteria for deformations and
YLEUDWLRQVVKDOOEHGHÀQHG·EXWRQO\PHQWLRQVYHUWLFDODQGKRUL]RQWDOGHÁHFWLRQVLQ
general terms; no mention is made of twist. EN 1993-1-1 offers no recommendations
IRUGHÁHFWLRQOLPLWVRIEHDPVDQGWKH8.1DWLRQDO$QQH[RQO\RIIHUVVXJJHVWHGOLPLWV
IRUYHUWLFDODQGKRUL]RQWDOGHÁHFWLRQVDJDLQQRPHQWLRQLVPDGHRIWZLVW
In P057 [13], it was suggested in a footnote to one of the worked examples that a
2 degree limit to the angle of rotation would seem appropriate. The intention was to
RIIHUSUDFWLFDODGYLFHZLWKRXWEHLQJGHÀQLWLYH7KLV¶OLPLW·KDVEHHQLQSULQWIRURYHU
20 years and SCI’s Advisory Desk has directed enquirers to it. There has been little
feedback on its application in practice, successful or otherwise, but, in the absence
of any other guidance, it may be accorded some respect by virtue of long existence
without negative comment and is reiterated in P385 [12].
28
Because an IVHFWLRQLVUHODWLYHO\ÁH[LEOHLQWRUVLRQWKLVOLPLWDWLRQRIWZLVWDW6/6LV
likely to govern, rather than resistance at ULS, once the warping moment becomes a
VLJQLÀFDQWSURSRUWLRQRIWKHZDUSLQJUHVLVWDQFHPRPHQW
4.1.4 Balanced condition (ULS)

)RUWKHÀQDOSKDVHRILQVWDOODWLRQSURYLGHGWKDWWKHVSDFLQJRIWKHEHDPVLVHTXDOWKH
ORDGIURPWKHSUHFDVWXQLWVRQHDFKVLGHRIWKHEHDPÁDQJHWRJHWKHUZLWKWKHORDGIURP
the topping and variable construction stage actions) produces a balanced load. In these
FLUFXPVWDQFHVWKHXOWLPDWHOLPLWVWDWHYHULÀFDWLRQVIRUWKHEDUHVWHHOVHFWLRQFRQFHUQ
ɹ Lateral torsional buckling resistance of the member.

ɹ 0RPHQWUHVLVWDQFHRIWKHFURVVVHFWLRQ
,WLVZRUWKQRWLQJWKDWDFRQVWUXFWLRQVHTXHQFHZKHUHE\WKHLQÀOODURXQGWKHVKHDUVWXGV
is completed prior to placement of the remainder of the in-situ concrete (the topping)
would mean that the beam is able to act compositely when carrying these loads.
A laterally unrestrained (uniform) steel member subject to major axis bending should be
YHULÀHGDJDLQVWODWHUDOWRUVLRQDOEXFNOLQJDFFRUGLQJWR(1DVIROORZV
MEd
Mb,Rd
d 1.0
where:
MEd is the design value of the moment
Mb,Rd LVWKHGHVLJQEXFNOLQJUHVLVWDQFHPRPHQWGHÀQHGDERYH
4.1.5 Balanced condition (SLS)

$VQRWHGDERYHDOWKRXJK(1RIIHUVQRUHFRPPHQGDWLRQVIRUGHÁHFWLRQ
limits of beams, the UK National Annex does offer suggested limits for vertical and
KRUL]RQWDOGHÁHFWLRQV6RPHW\SLFDOYDOXHVIRUERWKWKHFRQVWUXFWLRQDQGÀQDOVWDJHV
are given in Table 4.3. To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
4.2 Normal stage

The composite beams are designed in accordance with the general principles of EN 1994.
4.2.1 Actions on composite beams

7KHDFWLRQVWREHFRQVLGHUHGLQWKHYHULÀFDWLRQRIWKHFRPSRVLWHEHDPVDUHGHÀQHGLQ
various parts of EN 1991 [14], and fall into the following categories:
Permanent actions:
ɹ Self-weight of steel section.

ɹ Self-weight of composite slab, based on the dry density of concrete, considering
both the precast units and topping (if present).
29
DESIGN OF THE BEAMS

ɹ Finishes.
ɹ Services.
Variable actions:
ɹ Allowance for occupancy loads depending on building usage.

ɹ Allowance for movable partitions.
Thermal, wind and accidental actions do not normally need to be considered.
Combination of actions
Ultimate limit state
Expression 6.10b will usually result in a more onerous combination for the normal
stage than Expression 6.10a of EN 1990.
Serviceability limit state
&RPSRVLWHEHDPVVKRXOGEHYHULÀHGXVLQJWKHFRPELQDWLRQVRIDFWLRQVJLYHQIRU
the serviceability limit state in EN 1990. The UK National Annex (NA.2.2.6) to that
Eurocode recommends the use of the following combinations of actions for the
serviceability limit state:
Characteristic combination – for irreversible limit states, which may include
impairment of functional performance and damage to structural elements,
QRQVWUXFWXUDOHOHPHQWVHJSDUWLWLRQZDOOVDQGÀQLVKHV7KHYHULÀFDWLRQRI
GHÁHFWLRQVVKRXOGLQFOXGHWKHSHUPDQHQWDQGYDULDEOHDFWLRQVSUHVHQWIROORZLQJ
FRQVWUXFWLRQRIWKHHOHPHQWRUÀQLVKHVFRQFHUQHG
Frequent combination – for reversible limit states, such as dynamic effects that
LQÁXHQFHWKHFRPIRUWRIWKHXVHUV
Quasi permanent combination – for long term effects such as creep and cases
ZKHUHGHÁHFWLRQVDUHRQO\OLNHO\WRLQÁXHQFHWKHDSSHDUDQFHRIWKHVWUXFWXUH

EN 1990 gives combination factors for use in these combinations of actions. For typical
ÁRRUVZLWKLQWKHVFRSHRIWKLVSXEOLFDWLRQWKHYDULDEOHDFWLRQVWKDWRFFXUPD\EH
considered not to be independent of each other. Therefore, only combination factors
\1 and \2 are required.
4.2.2 Effective slab width for composite beams

,QFRPSRVLWHDSSOLFDWLRQVZKHUHWKHÁDQJHLVIRUPHGHQWLUHO\IURPin-situ concrete the
effective width of the slab is taken as span/4 (but not exceeding the beam spacing).
This value is adopted by EN 1994-1-1, although with some reduction near to the
supports. However, when hollow core units are used, the slab construction is no longer
monolithic, so the effective width will be smaller than for slabs using in-situ concrete.
The design implications for the effective width, when using hollow core units, or solid
planks, are discussed below.
30
Solid planks
Due to the fact that more in-situ concrete topping is used with solid planks, the effective
width may be calculated in the same way as for a composite beam with an in-situ slab
(be it solid or composite).
The effective widths given in EN 1994-1-1, 5.4.1.2 are expressed in relation to the
span of the beam (Figure 4.3). Different values may apply at different points along the
beam, although when elastic global analysis is used a constant effective width may be
assumed over the whole of each span, as permitted by Clause 5.4.1.2(4) and 6.1.2(2).
This constant value of effective width is taken as Le /4.
Actual effective width of beam
Idealised effective width

used for design
L/4
L/8
b0
3L/32
Figure 4.3
Variation of Slab span
effective width of
FRQFUHWHÁDQJH
The effective width at mid-span may be taken as:
beff b0 ¦b ei
where
b0 is the distance between the centres of the rows of shear connectors

bei is the effective width at midspan of the concrete on each side of the steel
section, taken as Le /8
Le is the effective length of the span, which is taken equal to the distance
between supports for a simply supported beam.
The effective width can be assumed to reduce over the last quarter of the span to the
support. The effective width at the support is given by:
beff b0 ¦E b i ei
where
Ei (0.55 0.025Le /bei ) d 1.0
When determining the effective area of concrete in compression, it should be noted

that solid planks transverse to the beam may be considered to act in compression
31
DESIGN OF THE BEAMS

when the edge details between planks permit transfer of compression. This is the
case when in-situ concrete is present, although a minimum of 25 mm of the slab
depth should be deducted because of the lack of concrete at the bottom edge of the
interface between the planks. If there is a dry butt joint detail between the planks,
this does not achieve effective compression transfer, and the depth of the effective
slab should be taken as equal to the depth of the concrete topping.
Hollow core slabs

For hollow core units, the strength of the in-situ concrete, and the amount of transverse
reinforcement bars provided, will strongly affect the effective width of the slab that may
be considered in the composite beam design. Whilst the rules from EN 1994-1-1 may
apply, research [15] has demonstrated that the effective width of the slab should not
EHWDNHQDVJUHDWHUWKDQWKHWRWDOZLGWKRIWKHFRQFUHWHLQÀOOSOXVWKHZLGWKRIWKHJDS
between the ends of the hollow core units.
4.2.3 Bending resistance

Eurocode 4 allows rigid plastic theory to be used when determining the bending
resistance for a Class 1 or 2 composite section. With the concrete in compression
DQGWKHVWHHOEHDPLQWHQVLRQDFRPSRVLWHFURVVVHFWLRQLVDOZD\V&ODVV7KHÁDQJH
class of all UKB sections and all but the lightest UKC sections is Class 1 so that,
where the relative size of the steel beam is such that the plastic neutral axis lies just
EHORZWKHWRSÁDQJHWKHFRPSRVLWHEHDPZLOOVWLOOEH&ODVV7KHEHQGLQJUHVLVWDQFH
of the composite beam is therefore normally taken as its plastic bending resistance.
When considering the bending resistance of the composite section, the tensile
resistance of the concrete is neglected.
Development of the full plastic resistance moment Mpl,RdUHTXLUHVVXIÀFLHQWVKHDU

FRQQHFWLRQEHWZHHQWKHVODEDQGWKHEHDP:KHUHVXIÀFLHQWFRQQHFWLRQH[LVWV
it is referred to as full shear connection. The requirements for shear connectors are

discussed in Section 4.2.4.
Plastic resistance with full shear connection

Typical plastic stress distributions (stress blocks) for composite beams with full shear
connection are shown in Figure 4.4. Concrete in compression may be assumed to
resist a stress equal to 0.85fcd over the full depth from the plastic neutral axis to the
PRVWFRPSUHVVHGÀEUH$FFRUGLQJWR(1
fcd fck /Jc
7KLVLVEDVHGRQWKHGHÀQLWLRQJLYHQLQ(1ZLWKWKHDGGLWLRQDOYDULDEOHDcc
taken as 1.0, which is considered appropriate for determining member resistance of
composite sections.
32
be
0.45 fcu,infill
a.
b.
c.
py py py
Figure 4.4
Plastic resistance of a. p.n.a. in slab b. p.n.a. in flange c. p.n.a. in web
composite section
The amount of concrete available to resist the compressive force due to bending is
limited by the effective width (beff DQGGHSWKRIWKHFRQFUHWHÁDQJHVHH6HFWLRQ
If more concrete compression resistance is available than can be exploited (i.e. greater
than the tension resistance of the beam), then the plastic neutral axis (p.n.a.) lies within
the depth of the slab, as shown in Figure 4.4 (a). If the steel section offers more tension
UHVLVWDQFHWKDQWKHFRQFUHWHÁDQJHFDQPDWFKLQFRPSUHVVLRQUHVLVWDQFHWKHSODVWLF
QHXWUDOD[LVZLOOWKHQOLHLQHLWKHUWKHWRSÁDQJHRIWKHVWHHOVHFWLRQ)LJXUHE
or, occasionally, in the web (Figure 4.4 (c)). Note that the equations given below to
facilitate rapid calculation of the moment resistance are only applicable to steel beams
ZLWKHTXDOÁDQJHV
When the plastic neutral axis (p.n.a.) lies within the concrete slab, the bending
resistance of the composite cross-section may be determined from the equation given
below. Note that this case is not permitted when hollow core units are used – it should
be avoided by increasing the size of the steel beam (to lower the p.n.a.) or seeking an
alternative solution with partial shear connection (see below).
ha Npl,a hc
Mpl,Rd Npl,a + hc −
2 Nc,f 2

where
Npl,a is the design value of axial resistance of the steel section
Nc,f LVWKHGHVLJQUHVLVWDQFHRIWKHHIIHFWLYHDUHDRIWKHFRQFUHWHÁDQJHDFWLQJ
compositely with the steel section (0.85fcd beff Xc )
ha is the depth of the steel section
h c LVWKHRYHUDOOGHSWKRIWKHFRQFUHWHÁDQJHLQFOXGLQJDQ\WRSSLQJOHVVDW
least 25 mm when solid planks are used)
Xc is the depth of concrete in compression.
When the p.n.a. lies LQWKHWRSÁDQJHRIWKHVWHHOEHDP the bending resistance of the

composite cross-section may be determined from:
ha hc (Npl,a − Nc,f )2
Mpl,Rd Npl,a + Nc,f − 0.25tf,a
2 2 (bf,a tf,a fyd )
33
DESIGN OF THE BEAMS

where
tf,a LVWKHWKLFNQHVVRIWKHVWHHOÁDQJH
bf,a LVWKHZLGWKRIWKHVWHHOÁDQJH
fyd is the design value of the yield strength of the steel.
When the p.n.a. lies within the web the plastic bending resistance (applicable for beams
with a web that is Class 1 or 2) of the composite cross-section may be determined from:
ha + hc Nc,f2 ha
Mpl,Rd Mpl,a,Rd Nc,f −
2 Nw 4
where
Mpl,a,Rd is the design bending resistance of the steel section (Wpl fyd )
Nw fydtwhw
hw ha 2tf
:KHQWKHZHELV&ODVVWKHHTXDWLRQDERYHVKRXOGEHPRGLÀHGWRUHFRJQLVHRQO\WKH
effective web area.
Plastic resistance with partial shear connection
,IWKHIXOOFRPSUHVVLRQUHVLVWDQFHRIWKHFRQFUHWHÁDQJHNc,f ) is not required (or cannot
be exploited) for the bending resistance of the composite beam, the shear connectors
are not required to transfer a force equal to Nc,f . For this situation, the composite beam
may be designed with partial shear connection. When partial shear connection is
adopted, the shear connection must nevertheless satisfy the minimum requirements
given in Section 4.2.4.
A plastic stress distribution for a beam with partial shear connection is given in Figure 4.5.
beff
0.85 fcd

- N c = ηN c,f
M Rd
- Ma
fyd
Na
+
Figure 4.5
Plastic stress
distribution for partial fyd
shear connection
The simplest method of determining the moment resistance of a composite section

with partial shear connection is the ‘linear interaction’ approach, covered by
EN 1994-1-1, 6.2.1.3. The bending resistance is given by:
34
Nc
MRd Mpl,a,Rd (Mpl,Rd Mpl,a,Rd )
Nc,f
where
Mpl,Rd is the moment resistance of the composite section with full shear connection
Mpl,a,Rd is the moment resistance of the steel section.
Nc is the sum of the resistances of the shear connectors provided (N)
Nc,f is the sum of the resistances of the shear connectors needed for
full shear connection (Nf ).
This method is conservative with respect to the more rigorous stress block method,
as illustrated in Figure 4.6. Details of the stress block method are presented
in EN 1994-1-1, 6.2.1.3. Equilibrium of the section is achieved by equating the
compression force in the concrete slab to the longitudinal shear force transferred by
the shear connectors.
M pl,Rd
a. Stress-block
method
M pl,a,Rd
b. Linear interation
method
Figure 4.6
Interaction between Lower limit on N/N f

moment resistance
and degree of shear
connection in composite 0.4 1.0
beams (notation as Degree of shear-connection, N/N f
GHÀQHGDERYH
4.2.4 Shear connection
Design resistance of a headed stud connector

In a solid concrete slab
The expressions presented in EN 1994-1-1, 6.6.3.1 are used to determine the resistance
of a headed stud connector in a solid slab. When the slab is not solid, a reduction
factor k should be applied. The solid slab resistance is taken as the lesser of the values
determined from expressions EN 1994-1-1, (6.18) and (6.19). Those expressions include
a partial factor of Jv, for which a value of 1.25 is adopted by NA.2.3.
35
DESIGN OF THE BEAMS

The design resistance of a headed stud shear connector in a solid slab is the smaller of:
0.8 fuπd 2/4

PRd 0.16 fu Sd2 and
γV
0.29α d 2 fckEcm
PRd 0.232Dd2 fckEcm
γV
where
fu is the ultimate tensile strength of the headed stud (for studs type SD1 to
BS EN ISO 13918 fu 450 N/mm2).
d is the diameter of the shank of the headed stud (16 mm d d d 25 mm).
fck is the characteristic cylinder strength of the concrete of density not less
than 1750 kg/m3 (given in EN 1992-1-1, Table 3.1).
Ecm is the secant elastic modulus of concrete (given in EN 1992-1-1, Table 3.1).
hsc hsc
D 0.2 d + 1 for 3 d
d
d4
hsc
D for 4
1.0
d
hsc may be taken as the as-welded height of the headed stud (this is not clear
from EN 1994)
Reduced design resistance – hollow core units
For hollow core units, a reduction factor kLVDSSOLHGWRWDNHDFFRXQWRIWKHLQÁXHQFHRIWKH

FRQÀQHPHQWRIWKHVKHDUFRQQHFWRUVGXHWRWKHWUDQVYHUVHUHLQIRUFHPHQWDQGWKHJHRPHWU\
of the connectors relative to the hollow core units. Provided the detailing recommendations
(for minimum gap width and reinforcement provision) given in this publication are respected,
the value of the reduction factor k may be taken as 0.9. For other situations see Reference [16].
Reduced design resistance – solid planks
Comparisons with push test results [17] show that the resistance of studs embedded To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
in slabs using solid planks is only affected by the gap between the planks. Provided
the detailing recommendations for minimum gap width given in this publication are
respected, the value of the reduction factor k may be taken as 1.0.
Minimum degree of shear connection

The minimum degree of shear connection required from EN 1994-1-1, 6.6.1.2 ensures
that the shear studs have adequate deformation capacity, based on a characteristic slip
capacity of 6 mm. In order to ensure that 6 mm slip can be accommodated, 16 mm diameter
high tensile transverse reinforcement bars should be used when hollow core units are
employed. For cases when solid planks are employed, it is recommended that the
minimum sizes given in Table 3.1 should be observed, although smaller diameter bars
may still enable 6 mm slip to be achieved.
36
7KHGHJUHHRIVKHDUFRQQHFWLRQLVGHÀQHGDV
N Nc
K or
Nf Nc,f
where
N is the number of shear connectors (sum of resistances Nc ) provided in the
length Le
Nf is the number of shear connectors (sum of resistances Nc,f ) required for full
shear connection in the length Le
Le is the distance between points of zero bending moment (beam span for
simply supported beams).
)RUVWHHOVHFWLRQVZLWKHTXDOÁDQJHVWKHOLPLWRQWKHPLQLPXPGHJUHHRIVKHDU
FRQQHFWLRQLVGHÀQHGLQ(1DV
355
For Le d 25 K t 1 f (0.75 0.03Le ), K t 0.4
yd
For Le ! 25 K t 1.0
Where Le is in metres.
7KHLQÁXHQFHRIWKHVWHHOVWUHQJWKfyd is introduced because of the higher strains,

and hence deformation demands, in plastic design using higher strength steels.
0RUHRQHURXVOLPLWVDSSO\ZKHQWKHVWHHOVHFWLRQLVDV\PPHWULFZLWKDORZHUÁDQJH
WKDWLVJUHDWHULQDUHDWKDQWKHXSSHUÁDQJH
Minimum spacing of shear connectors

According to EN 1994-1-1, 6.6.5.7(4) the minimum longitudinal spacing between shear
connectors is 5d (where d is the diameter of the shear connectors). The maximum
spacing according to EN 1994-1-1, 6.6.5.5(3) is the lesser of 6hs or 800 mm.
)RUZLGHÁDQJHEHDPVLWPD\EHSRVVLEOHWRSODFHVKHDUFRQQHFWRUVLQSDLUVLQZKLFK To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
case, the minimum transverse spacing is 4d (or approximately 80 mm for 19 mm

diameter studs). The minimum beam width then becomes 300 mm for use of shop-
welded shear connectors (see Section 3.1).
4.2.5 Longitudinal shear and transverse reinforcement

,WLVQHFHVVDU\WRHQVXUHWKDWWKHFRQFUHWHÁDQJHFDQUHVLVWWKHORQJLWXGLQDOVKHDUIRUFH
transmitted to it by the shear connectors. The total shear force per metre is the stud
resistance times the number of studs per metre.
The rules given in EN 1992-1-1, 6.2.4 should be used to determine the design resistance
to longitudinal shear for the relevant shear failure surfaces. The failure surfaces for
concrete slabs with precast units are shown here in Figure 4.7. The model given in
37
DESIGN OF THE BEAMS

a b b
Figure 4.7
Potential shear
failure surfaces
DDDQGEE
(1LVEDVHGRQFRQVLGHULQJWKHÁDQJHWRDFWOLNHDV\VWHPRIFRPSUHVVLYHVWUXWV
(angled on plan) combined with a system of ties in the form of the transverse reinforcement.
The required area of reinforcement is determined using EN 1992-1-1, Expression (6.21).
Asf fyd hc
t vEd
sf cotθf
where
Asf is the effective reinforcement per unit length crossing the failure surfaces,
sf as shown in Figure 4.7.
sf is the spacing of the reinforcement bars
Asf is the area of each reinforcement bar
fyd is the design yield strength of the reinforcement (fsd in EN 1994)
vEd is the design value of the transverse shear force
h c LVWKHRYHUDOOGHSWKRIWKHFRQFUHWHÁDQJHLQFOXGLQJDQ\WRSSLQJ
Tf is the angle of dispersion of the force from the shear connector, taken as,
26.3° d Tf d 45°IRUFRPSUHVVLRQÁDQJHV
The shear force will not necessarily be equally divided between the two sides. If the
ÁDQJHLVXQV\PPHWULFDOEHFDXVHRIDQHGJHRUDQRSHQLQJWKHVLGHZLWKWKHODUJHU
ÁDQJHDUHDPXVWUHVLVWDSURSRUWLRQDWHO\KLJKHUVKDUHRIWKHVKHDUIRUFH7KHIRUFHDWDQ\

failure surface is proportional to the area outside it, and it may be worth quantifying this
if the available concrete resistance is likely to govern in the shear calculation.
The minimum area of transverse reinforcement is determined in accordance with

EN 1992-1-1, 9.2.2(5), which gives the minimum value as a proportion of the concrete
area. The ratio is given by expression (9.5N) as follows:
Uw,min (0.08 fck ( / fyk
By substituting expression (9.5N) into expression (9.4), the following expression for the
minimum area of transverse reinforcement is obtained:
0.8 fck shcsin α

Asw
fyk
38
where
Asw is the area of transverse reinforcement within length s
fck is the characteristic compressive cylinder strength of the concrete at 28 days
fyk is the characteristic yield strength of the reinforcement
D is the angle between the transverse reinforcement and the longitudinal axis,
where 45 d D d 90°.
2WKHUWHUPVDUHDVGHÀQHGHDUOLHU
The length of the transverse reinforcement bars should extend over the effective width
of the slab, beff . For edge beams, U-bars are placed around the shear connectors to
give proper end anchorage.
Suggested minimum bar sizes are given in Section 3.4. It is not necessary for the bars
to align with the shear connectors. For cases when solid planks are employed, fabric
reinforcement within the concrete topping is only effective if it is placed at least 15 mm
below the head of the shear connectors. For deep solid planks, ‘bent-down’ transverse
reinforcement bars may be necessary to meet this requirement.
4.2.6 Serviceability conditions
Four design criteria may need to be considered at the serviceability limit state:
ɹ $OLPLWRQGHÁHFWLRQGXHWRYDULDEOHDFWLRQV
ɹ $OLPLWRQWKHWRWDOGHÁHFWLRQZKLFKPD\EHRIIVHWE\SUHFDPEHULQJ
ɹ Avoidance of irreversible deformation.
ɹ Avoidance of excessive vibrations.
Calculation of deflections
EN 1994-1-1, 7.3.1 states that elastic analysis should be used to determine the
GHÁHFWLRQRIFRPSRVLWHPHPEHUV
Elastic properties of composite section
The second moment of area of the composite section is established by transforming To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
the cross-sectional area of concrete into an equivalent area of steel, by dividing by
the modular ratio. In positive bending (sagging), the concrete will be uncracked when
the neutral axis lies in the steel beam. The second moment of area of the uncracked
transformed section is:
beff hc3 Aabeff hc(ha + hc )2

Ig Ia +
12n 4(Aan + beff hc )
where
Aa is the area of the steel section
Ia is the second moment of area of the steel section
h c LVWKHGHSWKRIWKHFRQFUHWHÁDQJH
ha is the depth of the steel section
39
DESIGN OF THE BEAMS

n LVWKHPRGXODUUDWLRIRUWKHGHVLJQVLWXDWLRQFRQVLGHUHG)RUGHÁHFWLRQGXH
to occupancy loads, the modular ratio may be taken as a proportion of the
long term and short term ratios, as noted below (see ‘creep effects’)
beff is the effective width.
Where the neutral axis is within the concrete slab, concrete below that level is
QHJOHFWHGGXULQJUHVLVWDQFHYHULÀFDWLRQV+RZHYHUWKDWFRQFUHWHZLOOFRQWULEXWHVRPH
stiffness so should be included when determining the second moment of area.
%HDPVPD\EHSURSSHGGXULQJFRQVWUXFWLRQLQZKLFKFDVHWKHGHÁHFWLRQDIWHUUHPRYDO
of props should be calculated using the long-term value of the modular ratio. Props
VKRXOGQRWEHUHPRYHGXQWLOWKHLQÀOOFRQFUHWHKDVJDLQHGLWVVSHFLÀHGGHVLJQVWUHQJWK
In these circumstances, the effect of prop removal on the shear resistance of the
hollow core units should be considered.
Influence of partial shear connection
According to EN 1994-1-1, 7.3.1(4) the effects of partial shear connection on the

GHÁHFWLRQRIWKHEHDPPD\EHQHJOHFWHGZKHQWKHIROORZLQJFULWHULDDUHVDWLVÀHG
1. the design of the shear connection is in accordance with Eurocode 4.
2. either no less shear connectors are used than half the number for full shear
connection, or the forces resulting from elastic behaviour which act on the shear
connectors in the serviceability limit state do not exceed the shear connector
resistance (so their behaviour may be assumed to remain elastic).
,IWKHVHFULWHULDDUHQRWVDWLVÀHGWKHLQÁXHQFHRIVKHDUFRQQHFWLRQRQWKHGHÁHFWLRQ
LVFRQVLGHUHGVLJQLÀFDQWEXW(XURFRGHSURYLGHVQRJXLGDQFHIRUFDOFXODWLQJWKLV
DGGLWLRQDOGHÁHFWLRQ,QVXFKFDVHV6&,UHFRPPHQGVWKDWWKHGHÁHFWLRQRIWKHEHDP
should be calculated using:
Propped construction G Gc 0.5(1 K)(Ga Gc )

Unpropped construction G Gc 0.3(1 K)(Ga Gc )
where
G a LVWKHGHÁHFWLRQRIWKHVWHHOEHDPDFWLQJDORQH
G c LVWKHGHÁHFWLRQRIDFRPSRVLWHEHDPDFWLQJZLWKIXOOVKHDUFRQQHFWLRQIRU
the same total loading used to determine Gs
K is the degree of shear connection.
Creep effects
Creep is a time-dependent inelastic strain phenomenon. Its effects are initially rapid
but the creep rate decreases with time. The strain resulting from creep can eventually
exceed the elastic strain by a factor of two or more. The single most important
LQÁXHQFHRQWKHPDJQLWXGHRIFUHHSVWUDLQVLVWKHDJHRIWKHFRQFUHWHDWÀUVWORDGLQJ
40
According to EN 1994, creep can be allowed for by using an appropriate modular ratio,
calculated in accordance with expression EN 1994-1-1, (5.6). The use of a modular
UDWLRDOORZVGHÁHFWLRQVWREHFDOFXODWHGLQDIDPLOLDUTXDVLHODVWLFZD\XVLQJVWDQGDUG
IRUPXODH&UHHSFRHIÀFLHQWVIRUXVHLQ(1([SUHVVLRQVHHEHORZDUH
determined using the rules given in EN 1992-1-1, 3.1.4 (for normal weight concrete).
The modular ratio n0 for short term loading (with no inelastic effects) is given in
EN 1994-1-1, 5.4.2.2 as:
Ea
n0
Ecm
where
Ea is the modulus of elasticity of structural steel (taken as 210,000 N/mm2)
Ecm is the secant modulus of elasticity of concrete for short term loading.
Values for Ecm for normal weight concrete are given in EN 1992-1-1, Table 3.1.
Alternatively, the following expression may be used to determine Ecm:
0.3
fcm
Ecm 22 (N/mm2)
10
where
fcm is the mean value for the cylinder compressive strength of concrete,
taken as fck 8.
C30/37 C40/50 C45/55
Characteristic cylinder compressive strength

30 40 45
fck (N/mm2)
Table 4.2
Properties for
fcm (N/mm2) 38 48 53
some common
concrete classes Secant modulus of elasticity
(from EN 1992-1-1, 33 35 36
Ecm (GPa)
7DEOH
For the consideration of the effects of long term loading, creep of the concrete must be
considered. Creep will depend on the relative humidity within the building and on the age
DWÀUVWORDGLQJ)RUW\SLFDOLQWHUQDOHQYLURQPHQWVZLWKLQEXLOGLQJVWKHUHODWLYHKXPLGLW\
FDQEHWDNHQDV)RUXQSURSSHGFRQVWUXFWLRQWKHDJHDWÀUVWORDGLQJt0 , may be
WDNHQDVGD\)RUVWUXFWXUDOHOHPHQWVSURSSHGGXULQJFRQVWUXFWLRQWKHDJHDWÀUVW
loading can be considered to be when the props are removed. Consideration should also
be given to the use of cement replacements in this context. While the 28 day strength
of a concrete with cement Class R will be similar to an equivalent concrete grade with
cement Class N, the graph of strength gain with time may be very different resulting in
higher creep strains when cement replacement is used. This effect is included in the
design by modifying the age of the concrete when load is applied, t0 .
41
DESIGN OF THE BEAMS

The long term modular ratio may be calculated using EN 1994-1-1, Equation (5.6)
reproduced below:
nL n0 (1 \LMt )
where
n L 0RGXODUUDWLRDSSURSULDWHWRWKHW\SHRIORDGLQJ
Mt &UHHSFRHIÀFLHQWM(t,t0 ) from EN 1992-1-1, 3.1.4 or 11.3.3
t is the age of the concrete in days at the time considered in the design
t 0 LVWKHDJHRIWKHFRQFUHWHLQGD\VDWORDGLQJ0D\EHPRGLÀHGWRWDNH
account of different cement classes, see EN 1992-1-1, B.9
\L is the creep multiplier, depending on the type of loading, taken as:
\L 1.1 for permanent loads
\L 0.55 for primary and secondary effects of shrinkage.
:KHQFDOFXODWLQJGHÁHFWLRQVGXHWRYDULDEOHRFFXSDQF\ORDGVWKHPRGXODUUDWLRVKRXOG
be calculated assuming two thirds short term loading and one third long term loading;
a value not less than 11 is recommended. The short term modulus can be determined
easily and is usually not less than 7. For long term loading, the modular ratio for internal
environments is at least 3 times the short term value, so typically is not less than 21.
Shrinkage effects
6KULQNDJHLVWKHRWKHULQHODVWLFSKHQRPHQRQWKDWLVOLDEOHWRLQFUHDVHWKHGHÁHFWLRQ
of a composite structure. EN 1994-1-1, 5.4.2.2(1) requires appropriate allowance for
the effects of shrinkage. For composite beams, shrinkage can be allowed for using an
appropriate modular ratio calculated in accordance with expression (5.6) (this modular
ratio is different from that for long term imposed loads).
The curvature, Ks, due to a free shrinkage strain, Hs, may be taken as:
εs(hc + ha)Aa
Ks
2(1 + nr)Ic
where
n is the modular ratio appropriate for shrinkage calculations
r is the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the steel section relative to the
concrete section
Aa is the area of the steel section
Ic is the second moment of area of the composite section
ha is the height of the steel section.
)RUGU\HQYLURQPHQWVZLWKLQEXLOGLQJV(1$QQH[&VWDWHVWKDWWKHWRWDOÀQDO
free shrinkage strain may be taken as:
Hs 325 u 10-6 for normal weight concrete
42
7KHGHÁHFWLRQGXHWRVKULQNDJHLQGXFHGFXUYDWXUHLVFDOFXODWHGIURP
KsL2
Gs
8
where L is the span of the composite beam.
Deflection limits
(XURFRGHGRHVQRWVSHFLI\GHÁHFWLRQOLPLWVIRUFRPSRVLWHEHDPV7KHUHIRUHWKHGHÁHFWLRQ
OLPLWVVKRXOGEHVSHFLÀHGIRUHDFKSURMHFWGHSHQGLQJRQWKHVHQVLWLYLW\RIWKHÀQLVKHV
visual appearance, etc. to meet the client’s needs. Typical limits are given in Table 4.3.
BEAM TYPE LOAD CASE LIMIT ABSOLUTE LIMIT (mm)

Internal beams Imposed load Span/360 To suit finishes
Total load Span/200 To suit finishes
Table 4.3 Dead load at construction stage — 25 mm†
Recommended Edges beams Imposed load Span/500 To suit cladding
limiting values for supporting floor
Imposed load plus cladding Span/360 To suit finishes
YHUWLFDOGHÁHFWLRQRI and cladding
composite beams Total load Span/250 To suit cladding
†
This is not a serviceability criterion but is intended to limit the additional load due to ponding of the
in-situ concrete.
Serviceability stress verification

6HUYLFHDELOLW\VWUHVVYHULÀFDWLRQVDUHQRWUHTXLUHGE\(XURFRGH+RZHYHUIROORZLQJ
the guidance given in EN 1990 [18], A1.4.2, stress checks may be included as one of the
serviceability criteria where there is a risk that the stresses in the steel section may
H[FHHG\LHOGXQGHUVHUYLFHDELOLW\ORDGLQJ$VGHÁHFWLRQVDUHEDVHGRQHODVWLFDQDO\VLV
it seems prudent to validate this assumption.
Vibration
,QWKH8.WKHWUDGLWLRQDODSSURDFKXVHGWRGHWHUPLQHWKHVHQVLWLYLW\RIDÁRRUWR

vibrations has been to determine the natural frequencies of the primary and secondary
supporting beams. If the natural frequencies were found to be greater than 4 Hz the
ÁRRUZDVFRQVLGHUHGDFFHSWDEOHIRUQRUPDOXVHHJRIÀFHV$QDOWHUQDWLYHDSSURDFK
was developed and presented in SCI publication P354 [19].
7KHUHDUHW\SLFDOO\WZRPRGHVWRFRQVLGHU,Q0RGH$DOWHUQDWHVHFRQGDU\VSDQVPD\
EHGHÁHFWLQJXSDQGGRZQHIIHFWLYHO\VLPSO\VXSSRUWHGZLWKSDUWLFLSDWLRQRIWKHVODE
DVÀ[HGHQGHGEXWQRWWKHSULPDU\EHDPV,Q0RGH%WKHSULPDU\EHDPVPD\EH
GHÁHFWLQJLQWKHVDPHPDQQHUEXWLQWKLVFDVHWKHVHFRQGDU\EHDPVDQGWKHVODE
ZKLFKDUHHIIHFWLYHO\À[HGHQGHGFRQWULEXWHH[WUDGHÁHFWLRQ)RUWKLVFDVH0RGH%
G is the sum of three contributions.
The lower of the two natural frequencies calculated is the fundamental frequency.
)RUFRPSRVLWHÁRRUVWKHIXQGDPHQWDOIUHTXHQF\VKRXOGEHDWOHDVW+]WRHQVXUHWKDW
walking activities will be outside the frequency range which could cause resonance.
43
DESIGN OF THE BEAMS

Figure 4.8
Floor vibration
modes A and B
7KHGHVLJQSURFHGXUHVIRUGHWHUPLQLQJWKHG\QDPLFSHUIRUPDQFHRIDFRPSRVLWHÁRRU
include the following steps:
ɹ Determine the natural frequency.

ɹ 'HWHUPLQHWKHPRGDOPDVVIRUWKHÁRRU
ɹ (YDOXDWHWKHUHVSRQVHRIWKHÁRRU
ɹ 9HULI\WKHUHVSRQVHRIWKHÁRRUDJDLQVWWKHUHTXLUHPHQWV
Detailed guidance on the above steps is given in P354.
For hospitals and other particularly sensitive occupancies, a more detailed analysis
should be undertaken.
4.3 Special cases

Precast hollow core units may also be used in special applications, such as:
ɹ Changes of slab orientation internally.

ɹ Slabs with large openings.
ɹ Beams with web openings.
ɹ Beams with local point loads.

ɹ Cantilever beams.
These cases are not covered by the current guidance, but the following qualitative
statements can be made:
ɹ Web openings up to 50% of the depth of the beam can be ignored, in terms of their
effect on local stresses in the hollow core units.
ɹ There is no restriction on the use of precast slabs using solid planks, which are
insensitive to local bending effects.
4.4 Steelwork connections

Connections, or joints as they are called in the Eurocodes, take two generic forms:
ɹ Beam-to-column connections.
ɹ Beam-to-beam connections.
44
Beam-to-column connections should be designed to be non composite using full depth

end plates, in order to:
ɹ Resist out-of-balance forces on the beam.

ɹ 5HGXFHGHÁHFWLRQVDWWKHFRQVWUXFWLRQVWDJHDVDUHVXOWRIWKHHIIHFWLYHVWLIIQHVVRI
the joint.
Beam to-beam connections can only be detailed as full depth end plates if the top
ÁDQJHRIWKHSULPDU\EHDPSURMHFWVDERYHWKHVHFRQGDU\EHDP,QRWKHUFDVHVSDUWLDO
depth end plates should be used. Extensive guidance on connection design and
detailing is given in the so-called ‘Green Books’ P358[20] and P398 [21].
a. Full depth end plate b. Partial depth connection
(beam - column) (beam - beam)
Figure 4.9
End plate connections
4.5 Robustness
Robustness of structures relates to the resistance to accidental damage and unusual
actions, such as explosions. There is a statutory requirement for avoidance of
‘disproportionate collapse’ of buildings in Part A of the Building Regulations [22].
This requirement is often covered by specifying minimum tying forces between the
various elements. A steel framed structure achieves tying action by appropriate design
of the beam-to-column connections. In general, the following tying action is required:
ɹ Peripheral ties around the perimeter of the building.

ɹ ,QWHUQDOWLHVEHWZHHQWKHLQWHUQDOEHDPDQGÁRRUVODE
ɹ Internal ties between the columns (may be distributed across the slab).
Extensive guidance is given in P391 [23]. The measures required for diaphragm action
DQGÀUHUHVLVWDQFHZKLFKDUHGLVFXVVHGLQWKHQH[WWZRVHFWLRQVQRUPDOO\DFKLHYH
VXIÀFLHQWUREXVWQHVVRIWKHFRQVWUXFWLRQ
45
DESIGN OF THE SLAB
The following Sections present a summary of the design of hollow core and solid plank precast
units. Further guidance may be obtained from the Precast Flooring Federation [9] (PFF).
5.1 Design of precast units

In the majority of cases, the manufacturer will undertake the design of the hollow core
units. The main design issues that need to be considered for strength purposes are
GLVFXVVHGEULHÁ\EHORZ
Unlike conventional reinforced concrete members, hollow core units have no

reinforcement other than the longitudinal prestressing tendons anchored by bond.
Consequently, whenever possible, tensile stresses in unreinforced zones are avoided
E\GHVLJQLQJWKHÁRRUVWREHVLPSO\VXSSRUWHG
The bending resistance of hollow core units is determined like any prestressed
concrete member in that the prestressing force precompresses the concrete in the
regions where tensile stresses will develop. As a consequence, when the member is
subjected to increments of load, the bending stresses will gradually reduce the built-in
compression in those regions; however, once the load is removed, the beam returns to
its original state of stress.
As well as the shear resistance check normally used in conventional reinforced

concrete design, additional checks in the vicinity of the supports are required. These
FKHFNVHQVXUHWKDWWKHUHLVVXIÀFLHQWUHVLVWDQFHWRSUHYHQWVKHDUWHQVLRQIDLOXUHIURP To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
occurring (which occurs when the principal tensile stress in the web reaches the tensile
VWUHQJWKRIWKHFRQFUHWHDQGWKDWWKHUHLVVXIÀFLHQWDQFKRUDJHRIWKHSUHVWUHVVLQJ
steel. Both of these checks are strongly affected by the length from the support over
which the full prestressing force is developed (known as the ‘transmission length’).
If a structural topping is used, the composite action between the topping and the
hollow core units will often make it is possible to increase the resistance of the hollow
core units; typically an increase in resistance of between 20 to 60% may be obtained.
5.2 Allowance for non-rigid supports

As discussed above, hollow core units are generally designed as simply supported
elements on rigid supports (see Figure 5.1 (a)). However, when these units are
47
DESIGN OF THE SLAB

VXSSRUWHGE\EHDPVWKDWGHÁHFWXQGHUWKHYDULDEOHDFWLRQV)LJXUHEVKHDUVWUHVVHV

parallel to the longitudinal axis of the supporting beam are applied across the ends of the
hollow core units. Test results and Finite Element analyses [24,25] have shown that these
additional stresses are directly related to the vertical shear force due to the variable action
(these stresses are in addition to the stresses within the slab, had rigid supports been
provided). The combination of stresses arising from non-rigid supports should be taken
account of when the shear resistance of the hollow core units is checked.
Figure 5.1 a.
Cross-section of
hollow core units
on a beam with
frictionless bearing:
DQRGHÁHFWLRQRI
the supporting beam,
DQGEGHÁHFWLRQRI b.
supporting beam
In most practical applications, where the secondary beams are unpropped during construction,
VXIÀFLHQWVKHDUUHVLVWDQFHZLOOQRUPDOO\H[LVWZLWKLQWKHKROORZFRUHXQLWVWRZLWKVWDQG
WKHDGGLWLRQDOVWUHVVHVDULVLQJIURPWKHHIIHFWRIWKHÁH[LEOHVXSSRUWV+RZHYHUZKHQ
propped construction is used, particular care should be taken as the removal of the
SURSVFDQVLJQLÀFDQWO\LQFUHDVHWKHDSSOLHGVKHDUVWUHVVHVZLWKLQWKHKROORZFRUHXQLWV
7KHVWUXFWXUDOUHVLVWDQFHRIKROORZFRUHXQLWVRQÁH[LEOHVXSSRUWVFDQEHLPSURYHGE\
LQÀOOLQJWKHHQGVRIWKHXQLWVWRDGLVWDQFHHTXDOWRLWVGHSWKRUE\SURYLGLQJDQin-situ
reinforced concrete topping over the units. Alternatively, the stiffness of the supporting
beam can be increased by providing a heavier or deeper beam than is required for bending
UHVLVWDQFH)RUFRPSRVLWHEHDPVLQÀOOLQJRIDWOHDVWKDOIRIWKHFRUHVDFKLHYHVWKLVREMHFWLYH
)RUXQSURSSHGQRQFRPSRVLWHEHDPVWKHLQÁXHQFHRIVXSSRUWVWLIIQHVVQHHGQRW
be considered [26] if the factored shear force that is applied to the slab is less than To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
0.35VRd (where VRd is the shear resistance of the hollow core units provided by the
manufacturer). For cases when propped construction is used, or when the factored
shear force applied to the slab is greater than 0.35VRd, advice from the manufacturer of
the precast units should be sought.
Pre-cambered beams have no effect on the resistance of the hollow core units, since the
beams will become approximately level under the action of the self-weight of the slab.
5.3 Diaphragm action

7KHÁRRULVRIWHQUHTXLUHGWRSURYLGHGLDSKUDJPDFWLRQLQRUGHUWRWUDQVIHUZLQG
forces to braced walls or concrete core walls. This action can be achieved through the
following measures:
48
ɹ Provision of a continuous in-situ reinforced topping in order to transfer the in-plane

forces in both orthogonal directions.
ɹ 7LHVEHWZHHQWKHSHULPHWHUPHPEHUVDQGWKHÁRRUDWWDFKHGE\ZHOGHGVKHDU
connectors and looped bars, for example).
ɹ Ties to the shear walls or reinforced cores.
ɹ Where an in-situ topping is not used, additional internal ties should be provided
DWRSSLQJLVUHFRPPHQGHGIRUODUJHUÁRRUVRUWDOOHUEXLOGLQJV7KLVLVDFKLHYHGE\
provision of transverse reinforcement in a composite beam.
The same measures are also appropriate to achieve robustness (see Section 4.5).
6WHHOEHDPVDURXQGWKHSHULPHWHURIWKHEXLOGLQJVKRXOGEHWLHGLQWRWKHÁRRUSODWHIRU
diaphragm action, and for torsional resistance (if they support cladding). I beams may
be considered to act as peripheral ties, provided that they are connected mechanically
to the slab through shear connectors (see Figure 3.3). The location of these ties is
illustrated in Figure 5.2.
Longitudinal
tie reinforcement Peripheral tie through steel beam
Longitudinal Span of
internal tie A Steel tie
hollow between Vertical bracing
core unit columns
Steel tie
Composite beam or slim floor beam To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
Figure 5.2
Composite beam
Detailing for diaphragm
Section A-A
DFWLRQRIDÁRRUXVLQJ
precast units
49
FIRE RESISTANCE
)LUHUHVLVWDQFHLVGHÀQHGLQWHUPVRIHQGXUDQFHRIVWUXFWXUDOHOHPHQWVLQDVWDQGDUG
ÀUHWHVW&RPSOLDQFHZLWKWKH%XLOGLQJ5HJXODWLRQVUHTXLUHVDUHVLVWDQFHRI
RUPLQXWHVGHSHQGLQJRQWKHEXLOGLQJ7KHJHQHUDOUHTXLUHPHQWVIRUÀUH
resistance are:
ɹ ,QVXODWLRQEHWZHHQFRPSDUWPHQWVZKLFKLVDFKLHYHGE\DPLQLPXPWKLFNQHVVRI
FRQFUHWHVODESRVVLEO\UHTXLULQJDQin-situWRSSLQJ
ɹ ,QWHJULW\E\ÀOOLQJRIWKHMRLQWVEHWZHHQWKHXQLWVWRSUHYHQWSDVVDJHRIÁDPHVDQG
KRWJDVHV
ɹ 5HVLVWDQFHWRVXSSRUWWKHUHGXFHGDFWLRQVDWWKHÀUHOLPLWVWDWHW\SLFDOO\RIWKH
YDOXHFRQVLGHUHGDWWKHXOWLPDWHOLPLWVWDWH
&OHDUO\E\FRQVLGHULQJWKHVXSSRUWLQJEHDPVDQGWKHKROORZFRUHXQLWVLQLVRODWLRQ
WKHFRPSRQHQWZLWKWKHORZHVWÀUHUHVLVWDQFHZLOOGHÀQHWKHÀUHUHVLVWDQFHRIWKH
ZKROHFRQVWUXFWLRQ7KHIROORZLQJVXEVHFWLRQVJLYHWKHUHTXLUHPHQWVIRUGRZQVWDQG
FRPSRVLWHEHDPV
6.1 Support beams

7KHUDWHRILQFUHDVHLQWHPSHUDWXUHRIDVWHHOFURVVVHFWLRQGHSHQGVRQWKHUDWLR
RIWKHH[SRVHGVXUIDFHDUHDWRWKHYROXPHRIWKHPHPEHUSHUPHWUHOHQJWKAm /V
7KLVUDWLRLVLQYDULDEO\H[SUHVVHGLQXQLWVRIPSHUPHWUHDQGLVWKHGHÀQLWLRQJLYHQ
LQ(1>@IRUWKH¶VHFWLRQIDFWRU·1RWHWKDWLQWKH8.WKHVHFWLRQIDFWRUKDV
WUDGLWLRQDOO\EHHQGHÀQHGDVWKHUDWLRRIWKHKHDWHGSHULPHWHUWRWKHFURVVVHFWLRQDO
DUHDEXWERWKUHODWLRQVKLSVJLYHWKHVDPHYDOXH0HPEHUVZLWKORZVHFWLRQIDFWRUV
KHDWXSPRUHVORZO\WKDQPHPEHUVZLWKKLJKVHFWLRQIDFWRUV
7KHVWHHOEHDPVPXVWEHSURYLGHGZLWKSURWHFWLRQWKDWLVDSSURSULDWHIRUWKHUHTXLUHG
ÀUHUHVLVWDQFHRIWKHFRQVWUXFWLRQ$VRFDOOHGÀUHHQJLQHHULQJDSSURDFKPD\EH
DGRSWHGWRDYRLGSURWHFWLQJWKHEHDPVLQVRPHVLWXDWLRQV)RUPRUHLQIRUPDWLRQ
VHH6&,SXEOLFDWLRQ3>@7KHFKRLFHRIWKHW\SHRIÀUHSURWHFWLRQWKDWLVWREH
DSSOLHGWRWKHVWHHOVHFWLRQLVHVWDEOLVKHGDVIROORZV
51
FIRE RESISTANCE
ɹ Intumescent coatings7KHVHFRDWLQJVDUHDSSOLHGDURXQGWKHSURÀOHRIWKHVHFWLRQ
7KH\DUHIRUPXODWHGWRVZHOOXSDQGIRUPDSURWHFWLYHLQVXODWLQJFKDULQFDVHRID
ÀUH7KH\DUHXVXDOO\VSUD\DSSOLHGDVDWKLQÀOPDQGDYDLODEOHZLWKDUDQJHRIWRS
FRDWVLQGLIIHUHQWFRORXUV$SSO\LQJWKHVSUD\RIIVLWHUHPRYHVDSSOLFDWLRQIURPWKH
FULWLFDOSDWKDQGH[SRVXUHWRZHDWKHUPDNLQJLWDKLJKO\FRVWHIIHFWLYHPHDQVRIÀUH
SURWHFWLRQ,QWXPHVFHQWFRDWLQJVDUHXVXDOO\XVHGIRUVWHHOWKDWQHHGVXSWRPLQXWHV
ÀUHSURWHFWLRQ
ɹ Spray coating&HPHQWLWLRXVSURGXFWVEDVHGRQJ\SVXPRU3RUWODQGFHPHQWELQGHUV
PD\EHDSSOLHGDURXQGWKHSURÀOHXVLQJORZSUHVVXUHVSUD\WHFKQLTXHV)LUHSURWHFWLRQ
LVDFKLHYHGGXHWRWKH¶FRROLQJHIIHFW·DVWUDSSHGPRLVWXUHHYDSRUDWHVDQGWKH
SURGXFWVXEVHTXHQWO\DFWLQJDVWKHUPDOLQVXODWLRQPDWHULDO
ɹ Boards%RDUGDQGVLPLODUFDVLQJV\VWHPVXVHFHUDPLFZRROPLQHUDOZRROJ\SVXP
EDVHGPDWHULDOVFDOFLXPVLOLFDWHRUYHUPLFXOLWHWRSURYLGHÀUHSURWHFWLRQ7KH\
SURWHFWWKHVWHHOLQWKHVDPHZD\VDVFHPHQWLWLRXVVSUD\VDQGDUHGU\À[HGXVLQJ
FOLSVVFUHZVDGKHVLYHVHWF
7KH(XURFRGHVSURYLGHDQXPEHURIGLIIHUHQWZD\VRIGHWHUPLQLQJÀUHUHVLVWDQFH
VRPHRIZKLFKDUHH[SORUHGLQ3>@7KHVLPSOHVWPHWKRGJLYHQLQ(1
SURYLGHVDZD\RIGHWHUPLQLQJDFULWLFDOWHPSHUDWXUHWKDWGHSHQGVRQWKHGHJUHHRI
XWLOL]DWLRQRIWKHPHPEHULQWKHÀUHVLWXDWLRQ7KHGHJUHHRIXWLOL]DWLRQLVGHÀQHGDVWKH
GHVLJQHIIHFWLQWKHÀUHVLWXDWLRQE¿GLYLGHGE\WKHGHVLJQUHVLVWDQFHLQWKHÀUH
VLWXDWLRQDWWLPH]HURR¿G7KH(XURFRGHVWDWHVWKDWWKLVPHWKRGVKRXOGRQO\EHXVHG
IRUPHPEHUVIRUZKLFKGHIRUPDWLRQFULWHULDRUVWDELOLW\FRQVLGHUDWLRQVGRQRWKDYHWREH
WDNHQLQWRDFFRXQWPHDQLQJLWFDQEHXVHGIRUUHVWUDLQHGEHDPV7KHDPRXQWRI
SURWHFWLRQVKRXOGEHVXIÀFLHQWWRNHHSWKHWHPSHUDWXUHRIWKHVWHHOVHFWLRQEHORZWKH
FULWLFDOWHPSHUDWXUHIRUWKHSHULRGRIWLPHVWDWHG
)RUH[DPSOHDOLPLWLQJWHPSHUDWXUHRIDSSUR[LPDWHO\&LVDSSURSULDWHIRUD
FRPSRVLWHEHDPZLWKFURVVVHFWLRQ&ODVVRUVXSSRUWLQJKROORZFRUHXQLWVDQG
KDYLQJDGHJUHHRIXWLOLVDWLRQRI,QIRUPDWLRQRQUHTXLUHGWKLFNQHVVLVDYDLODEOH
IURP$6)3LQSDUWLFXODUWKURXJKWKHLU¶<HOORZ%RRN·>@
6.2 Hollow core units

7KHGHWDLOLQJUHTXLUHPHQWVVKRZQLQ)LJXUHPD\EHDGRSWHGWRHQVXUHVDWLVIDFWRU\
SHUIRUPDQFHLQÀUH
)RUGRZQVWDQGFRPSRVLWHEHDPVVHH)LJXUHWKHWUDQVYHUVHUHLQIRUFHPHQWXVHGWR

GHYHORSFRPSRVLWHDFWLRQLVQRUPDOO\VXIÀFLHQWWRSURYLGHVDWLVIDFWRU\SHUIRUPDQFHLQÀUH
FRQGLWLRQV7KHVHEDUVVKRXOGEHHPEHGGHGWRDPLQLPXPGLVWDQFHRIPPIURPWKH
HQGVRIWKHXQLWV)RUDQGPLQXWHVÀUHUHVLVWDQFHDFRQFUHWHWRSSLQJZLOOQRUPDOO\
EHUHTXLUHG>@7KHHIIHFWRIQRQULJLGVXSSRUWVVHH6HFWLRQQHHGQRWEHFRQVLGHUHG
52
600 mm in cores
a. 60 minutes fire resistance
≥ 50 mm
600 mm in cores
Figure 6.1
Detailing measures
for hollow core units
with downstand steel
or composite beams
to achieve standard
periods of b. 90 and 120 minutes fire resistance
ÀUHUHVLVWDQFH
53
REFERENCES
[1] Hicks, S. J. and Lawson, R. M. [10] Nip, T. F. and Lam, D

Design of Composite Beams using Precast Effect of End Condition of Hollow Core Slabs on
Concrete Slabs (P287). Longitudinal Shear Capacity of Composite Beams.
The Steel Construction Institute, 2003 First Conference on Steel & Composite Structures,
[2] BS EN 1992-1-1:2004 Pusan, Korea, June 2001
Eurocode 2: Design of Concrete Structures. [11] Gardner, L.

General Rules and Rules for Buildings Stability of Steel Beams and Columns (P360).
(incorporating corrigendum January 2008, The Steel Construction Institute, 2011
November 2010 and February 2014).
[12] Hughes, A. F., Iles, D. C. and Malik, A. S.
BSI, 2004 Design of Steel Beams in Torsion (P385).
[3] BS EN 1992-1-2:2004 The Steel Construction Institute, 2011
Eurocode 2: Design of Concrete Structures. Nethercot, D. A., Salter, P. R. and Malik, A. S.
[13]
General Rules - Structural Fire Design Design of Members Subject to Combined
(incorporating corrigendum July 2008). Bending and Torsion (P057).
BSI, 2004 The Steel Construction Institute, 1989
[4] BS EN 10025-2:2004
[14] BS EN 1991-1-1:2002,
Hot Rolled Products of Structural Steels.
Eurocode 1: Actions on Structures. General
Technical Delivery Conditions for Non-Alloy
Actions - Densities, Self-weight, Imposed
Structural Steels.
Loads for Buildings (incorporating corrigenda
BSI, 2004
December 2004 and March 2009).
[5] BS EN 1994-1-1:2004 BSI, 2002
Eurocode 4: Design of Composite Steel and [15] Lam, D., Elliot, K. S., and Nethercot, D. A.
Concrete Structures. General Rules and Rules for Experiments on Composite Steel Beams with
Buildings (incorporating corrigendum April 2009). Precast Concrete Hollow Core Floor Slabs.
BSI, 2004 Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers,
[6] BS EN ISO 13918:2008 Structures & Buildings, Vol. 140.
Welding. Studs and Ceramic Ferrules for Institution of Civil Engineers, 2000 To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
Arc Stud Welding. [16] Lam, D.
BSI, 2008
Capacities of Headed Stud Shear Connectors
[7] BS EN 10080:2005 in Composite Steel Beams with Precast Hollow
Steel for the Reinforcement of Concrete - Core Slabs, Journal of Constructional Steel
Weldable Reinforcing Steel – General. Research, Vol. 63, Issue 9, pp. 1160-1174.
BSI, 2005 Elsevier Ltd., 2007
[8] BS EN 1993-1-1:2005 [17] Moy, S. S. J. and Tayler, C.
Eurocode 3: Design of Steel Structures. General The Effect of Precast Concrete Planks on Shear
Rules and Rules for Buildings (incorporating Connector Strength, Journal of Constructional
corrigenda February 2006 and April 2009). Steel Research, Vol. 36, Issue 3, pp. 201-213.
BSI, 2005 Elsevier Ltd., 1996
[9] Code of Practice for: The Safe Installation [18] BS EN 1990:2002 (+A1:2005),
of Precast Concrete Flooring and Eurocode: Basis of Structural Design (incorporating
Associated Components. corrigendum December 2008 and April 2010).
Precast Flooring Federation, 2013 BSI, 2002
55
REFERENCES
[19] Hicks, S. J., Smith, A. and Devine, P [25] Pajari, M.

Design of Floors for Vibration: Shear Resistance of PHC Slabs Supported on
A New Approach (P354). Beams. II: Analysis, Journal of Structural
The Steel Construction Institute, 2009 Engineering, Vol. 124, No. 9, pp. 1062-1073.
American Society of Civil Engineers, 1998
[20] Joints in Steel Construction:
Simple Joints to Eurocode 3 (P358). [26] Guidelines for the Application of Prestressed
The Steel Construction Institute, 2011 Hollow Core Slabs Supported on Built-In Beams.
[21] Joints in Steel Construction: ECCS, 1998
Moment-Resisting Joints to Eurocode 3 (P398). [27] BS EN 1994-1-2:2005

The Steel Construction Institute, 2013 Eurocode 4: Design of Composite Steel and
[22] The Building Regulations 1991: Approved Concrete Structures. General Rules - Structural
Document A, Structure (1992 ed. 4th Fire Design (+A1:2014) (incorporating corrigendum
impression (with amendments) 1994). July 2008).

Superseded by the Building regulations 2000: BSI, 2005
Approved documents. [28] Simms, W. I.

7KH6WDWLRQHU\2IÀFH Fire Resistance Design of Steel
[23] Way, A. Framed Buildings (P375).
Structural Robustness of Steel The Steel Construction Institute, 2012

Framed Buildings (P391). [29] Fire Protection for Structural Steel in Buildings
The Steel Construction Institute, 2011 (Fifth edition).
Association for Specialist Fire Protection, 2014
[24] Pajari, M. and Koukkari, H.
Shear Resistance of PHC Slabs Supported on [30] Lennon, T.
Beams. I: Tests, Journal of Structural Precast Concrete Hollow Core Slabs in Fire,
Engineering, Vol. 124, No. 9, pp. 1050-1061. The Structural Engineer, Vol. 81, Issue 8,
American Society of Civil Engineers, 1998 pp. 30-35.
The Institute of Structural Engineers, 2003
CREDITS
Cover Photograph courtesy of 09 Photograph courtesy of To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org
Caunton Engineering Ltd. Caunton Engineering Ltd.
vi Photograph courtesy of 09 Photograph courtesy of

Caunton Engineering Ltd. Caunton Engineering Ltd.
vi Photograph courtesy of
Caunton Engineering Ltd.
06 Photograph courtesy of
Caunton Engineering Ltd.
56
57
SCI Membership
Technical Information
Construction Solutions
Communications Technology
SCI Assessment
DESIGN OF COMPOSITE BEAMS USING PRECAST CONCRETE
SLABS IN ACCORDANCE WITH EUROCODE 4
Precast concrete units acting compositely with downstand steel beams can be an attractive
structural solution. Although this form of construction is not explicitly covered by the Eurocodes,
this publication provides guidance that is in accordance with the principles of Eurocode 4,
supplemented by non-contradictory complementary information (NCCI). The guidance discusses
the particular issues affecting the use of precast concrete concerning the requirements of effective
shear connection and transverse reinforcement. Reference is made to small scale push out tests,
and earlier composite beam tests, that have established reduction factors for the design resistance
of welded shear connectors as a function of the gap between the ends of the precast concrete units,
and the amount of transverse reinforcement provided. The publication includes guidance on design
of the steel beams during construction, in accordance with Eurocode 3.
SCI Ref: P401

ISBN: 978-1-85942-213-7
SCI
Silwood Park, Ascot, Berkshire. SL5 7QN UK
T: +44 (0)1344 636525
F: +44 (0)1344 636570
E: reception@steel-sci.com
www.steel-sci.com

SCI P401 Design of Composite Beams Using Precast Concrete Slabs in

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

SCI P401 Design of Composite Beams Using Precast Concrete Slabs in

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Licensed copy: LEEDSUNI, UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS, 26/01/2021, Uncontrolled Copy, © Steel Construction Institute

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

SCI PUBLICATION P401

G H Couchman MA, PhD, CEng, MICE

Our service spans the following areas:

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

Publications supplied to the members of the

British Library Cataloguing-in-Publication Data.

The text paper in this publication is totally

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

FOREWORD iii 4 DESIGN OF THE BEAMS 21

3 PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS 11 CREDITS 56

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

1.2 Benefits of composite beams using precast

1.3 Design considerations

ɹ 7KHGHVLJQVWDQGDUGV RUDEVHQFHRIVWDQGDUGVLQVRPHDUHDV IRUWKHXVHRIVWHHO

:LWKDJURZLQJXVHRIWKH(XURFRGHVLQWKH8.LWLVWLPHO\WRXSGDWHSUHYLRXVGHVLJQ To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

JXLGDQFHRQSUHFDVWFRQFUHWHÁRRUV [1], particularly those relying on composite action

1.4 Scope of this publication

1.5 Design basis

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

2.1 Generic forms

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

Composite beam with square-ended Composite beam with chamfered-ended

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

2.3 Downstand beams

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

ɹ Shop-welding or site-welding of shear connectors.

3.1 Minimum beam width

ɹ the type of slab;

3.1.1 Minimum bearing

ɹ The nominal bearing length.

ɹ 40 mm minimum bearing for the precast slabs.

In some cases it is possible, by requiring tighter tolerances on both the manufacturing

3.1.2 Flange width

ɹ For site-welded shear connectors 85  2 u 75 235 mm

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

ɹ For shop-welded shear connectors 70  2 u 50 170 mm

3.2 Welding of shear connectors

Welding in the factory is preferred, especially where the beam is to be galvanized or

3.3 Factory preparation of the ends of hollow core units

3.3.1 Square-ended units

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

3.3.3 Opened hollow cores

3.4 Placing of transverse reinforcement

SLAB DEPTH BAR SIZES

Table 3.1 Hollow Core Units

Figure 3.1 b. Longitudinal view of shear connectors

LQWKHÀOOHGKROORZFRUHV VHH)LJXUH +RZHYHUORQJHUVWUDLJKWEDUVRU/EDUV

Note: The above recommendations on bar size and spacing of transverse

500 infill 500 infill

To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

Square end Chamfered end

a. Cross-section at filled hollow core

3.5 Detailing of edge beams

ɹ They are normally required to act as peripheral ties.

ɹ 7KHGHVLJQVWDQGDUGVRUDEVHQFHRIVWDQGDUGVLQVRPHDUHDVIRUWKHXVHRIVWHHO

:LWKDJURZLQJXVHRIWKH(XURFRGHVLQWKH8.LWLVWLPHO\WRXSGDWHSUHYLRXVGHVLJQ To buy a hardcopy version of this document visit http://shop.steelbiz.org

ɹ For site-welded shear connectors 85 2 u 75 235 mm

ɹ For shop-welded shear connectors 70 2 u 50 170 mm

LQWKHÀOOHGKROORZFRUHVVHH)LJXUH+RZHYHUORQJHUVWUDLJKWEDUVRU/EDUV

%RWKXOWLPDWHOLPLWVWDWH8/6DQGVHUYLFHDELOLW\OLPLWVWDWH6/6YHULÀFDWLRQVPXVWEH

1.35Gk,1a,sup 1.35Gk,1b,sup 1.5Qk,1b 1.5Qk,1c

Gk,1a,sup Gk,1b,sup Qk,1c

7KHPD[LPXPGLUHFWORQJLWXGLQDOVWUHVVHVRFFXUDWWKHWLSVRIWKHÁDQJHV$WWKHVH

6KHDUVWUHVVHVGXHWRZDUSLQJWRUVLRQDUHYHU\UDUHO\VLJQLÀFDQW7KHWUDQVYHUVHVKHDU