7.1.

4 Analysis of structure for serviceability limit states

In general, it will be sufficiently accurate to assess the moments and forces in members subjected to
their appropriate loadings for the serviceability limit states using an elastic analysis. Where a single
value of stiffness is used to characterise a member, the member stiffness may be based on the
concrete section. In this circumstance it is likely to provide a more accurate picture of the moment
and force fields than will the use of a cracked transformed section, even though calculation shows the
members to be cracked. Where more sophisticated methods of analysis are used in which variations
in properties over the length of members can be taken into account, it will frequently be more
appropriate to calculate the stiffness of highly stressed parts of members on the basis of a cracked
transformed section.

7.1.5 Material properties for the calculation of curvature and stresses

For checking serviceability limit states, the modulus of elasticity of the concrete should be taken as
the value given in Table 3.2. The modulus of elasticity may be corrected for the age of loading where
this is known. Where a ‘best estimate’ of the curvature is required, an elastic modulus appropriate to
the expected concrete strength may be used. Attention is, however, drawn to the large range of values
for the modulus of elasticity that can be obtained for the same cube strength. It may therefore be
appropriate to consider either calculating the behaviour using moduli in Table 3.2 to obtain an idea of
the reliability of the calculation or to have tests done on the actual concrete to be used. Refer to
section 3 for appropriate values for creep and shrinkage in the absence of more direct information.

7.2 CRACKING
7.2.1 General
Cracking shall be limited to an extent that will not impair the proper functioning or durability of the
structure or cause its appearance to be unacceptable. Cracking is normal in reinforced concrete
structures subjected to flexure, shear, torsion or tension resulting from either direct loading or restraint
of imposed deformations.
Appropriate limitations, taking into account of the proposed function and nature of the structure and
the costs of limiting cracking, should be established. It may be assumed that the limitations of the
maximum estimated crack width given in Table 7.1 will generally be satisfactory for reinforced concrete
members in buildings with respect to appearance and durability.
Reinforced members and
Prestressed members with
prestressed members with
Exposure condition bonded tendons
unbonded tendons
D
D
1, 2, and 3 0.3 mm(1) 0.2 mm
4 0.3 mm 0.2 mm
Water retaining
0.2 mm -
structures(2)
Notes:
1. For exposure condition 1, crack width has no influence on durability and this limit is set to guarantee acceptable
appearance. In the absence of appearance conditions this limit may be relaxed.
2. Water retaining structures referred to here are water tanks and the like used in general building works and not meant
to include large civil water retaining structures.

Table 7.1 - Limitations of maximum estimated surface crack widths

Since the bar spacing rules given in section 9 for particular members have to ensure that cracking is
not serious in the worst likely practical situation, it will almost always be found that wider bar spacings
can be used if the crack widths are checked explicitly. This will be particularly true for fairly shallow
members.

7.2.2 Control of cracking without direct calculation (deemed-to-satisfy)

If the detailing rules prescribed in sections 8 and 9 with respect to minimum reinforcement areas and
bar spacings are complied with, no further checks on crack widths are usually necessary.

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