Advantages of Using Inverted T-Sections to Construct Cantilever RC Beams

Abstract

The aim of this study is to find a simple, fast, and economical method for designing RC cantilever beams instead of the traditional methods. Generally, the concrete beams have been designed as T-sections so that their flange has failed within the compression zone, which has embedded with reinforced concrete slab. The structural engineer can select the appropriate section for each span length, but the trial and error method may be used with more effort and time. The economic selection has been become more difficult for cantilever beams especially with a large span due to the significant deflections they have been exposed to. In order to solve this problem, a current theoretical study has been conducted on a number of locally common dropped and inverted T-sections for cantilever RC beams that reinforced with a different reinforcement ratios and their sustained and immediate deflections have been checked according to the ACI -19 provisions. By creating an algorithm and using the Python 3.4 software, the allowable sections have been identified for each required span length. Three curves have been drawn to choose the optimum dimensions for both dropped and inverted T-sections easily. In addition, by comparison, it has been found out that the selection of inverted T-sections has more economy to provide longer spans than dropped sections.