Design of Reinforced Concrete
Structures II
Lecture 2
Chapter 2: Basic of reinforced concrete frames
Dr. Eng. Ngô Việt Dũng
Building Structure Department 2009 - 2025
Mobile: 0948 402 608
Email: dungnv@[Link]
© 2009-2025 [Link] Dung, University of Technology and Education DRCS342917E
Page 2
Chapter 2
Basic of reinforced concrete frames
A Foundational Overview for Civil Engineers
Page 3
2.1. Introduction
Overview
- A reinforced concrete frame is the structural skeleton of a
building, composed of a network of interconnected beams
and columns.
Page 4
2.1. Introduction
Overview
- This framework is responsible for supporting all the loads a
building is subjected to—its own weight, the weight of its
occupants and contents, and environmental forces like wind
and earthquakes—and safely transferring them down to the
foundation.
Page 5
2.1. Introduction
Overview
- The magic of reinforced concrete lies in the composite action
of two materials: concrete and steel.[3] Concrete is
exceptional in resisting compressive forces but weak in
tension.[3] Steel reinforcement, or rebar, on the other hand,
possesses high tensile strength.[3][4] By embedding steel
within the concrete, we create a composite material that
effectively handles both compression and tension, making it
an economical and versatile building material.[5] A key
advantage is that both materials have similar thermal
expansion coefficients, minimizing internal stresses due to
temperature changes.[6]
- We see reinforced concrete frames everywhere, from single-
story industrial buildings to towering skyscrapers, bridges, and
other critical infrastructure. Their rigidity and durability make
them a preferred choice for a vast array of structures.[2][3] Page 6
2.2. Classification
Overview
- Reinforced concrete frames can be classified based on several
criteria, which helps in selecting the appropriate type for a
specific project.
• Based on Member Connection:
o Rigid Frames: In these frames, the connections between beams
and columns are rigid, preventing relative rotation. This rigidity
provides stability and allows the frame to resist vertical and
lateral loads effectively.[7][8] Most modern cast-in-place
concrete structures are rigid frames.
o Braced Frames: These frames resist lateral forces primarily
through a system of diagonal bracing members.[7] The bracing
action of these members provides significant stiffness against
sideways forces like wind and earthquakes.[7][9] The
connections in the rest of the frame can be simpler as they don't
need to transfer significant moments. Page 7
2.2. Classification
Overview
• Based on Structural System:
o Portal Frames: These are simple frames typically consisting of
two columns and a beam, often used for single-story industrial
buildings and warehouses.[2]
o Multi-story Frames: As the name suggests, these frames have
multiple floors and are common in high-rise and commercial
buildings.[2]
• Based on Construction Method:
o Cast-in-situ: The concrete is poured into formwork on-site. This
monolithic construction creates naturally rigid joints.[9]
o Precast: Structural members are manufactured off-site in a
controlled environment and then transported to the site for
assembly. This method can improve quality and speed up
construction.[1]
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2.2. Classification
1. Rigid Frames
- Beams and columns are examples of the linear elements that
make up a rigid frame system, also known as a moment frame
system. Rigidity is the inability to bend or flex. It is commonly found
in reinforced concrete and steel structures. Static indeterminacy is a
hallmark of rigid frames, distinguished by the absence of pinned
joints between individual frame members.
- A rigid frame does not bend under the weight of its beams and
columns, making it resistant to vertical and lateral stresses. Beams
and columns with rigid connections give the rigid frame its stiffness.
The joints need to be sufficiently strong and rigid with little
distortion.
- Solving for internal forces and moments and support reactions can
be done with structural analysis techniques such as the portal
method (approximate), the method of virtual work, Castigliano’s
theorem, the force method, the slope-displacement method, the
stiffness method, and the matrix analysis. Page 9
2.2. Classification
Rigid Frames
Fig1: Rigid Frame Structure
Page 10
2.2. Classification
1. Rigid Frames
A rigid frame structure can be divided into two categories:
i) Fix-Ended Rigid Frame Structure:
The conditions at the ends are usually set in this rigid frame system.
Fig2: Fix-Ended Rigid Frame Structure
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2.2. Classification
1. Rigid Frames
A rigid frame structure can be divided into two categories:
ii) Pin-Ended Rigid Frame Structure:
This rigid frame is held together by pins and is no longer a rigid
frame if the pins are removed.
Fig3: Pin-Ended Rigid Frame Structure Page 12
2.2.
2. Braced Frames
Classification
Fig4: Braced Frame Structure
- Bracing is typically installed between beams and columns in this frame
system to strengthen the system’s resistance to lateral forces and sideways
forces. Placing the diagonal elements between the beams and columns is
a common bracing method. This skeleton design is more able to withstand
earthquake and wind pressures. Compared to rigid frame systems, this
Page 13
one is superior.
2.2. Classification
2. Braced Frames
A braced frame structure can be divided into two categories:
i) Portal Frames:
Fig5: Portal Frame Structure
Most portal frames are designed to resemble doors. In the
commercial and industrial sectors, this frame system is widely used.
Page 14
2.2. Classification
2. Braced Frames
A braced frame structure can be divided into two categories:
ii) Gabled Frames:
Fig6: Gable Frame Structure
Most of the time, the peak is at the top. This type of frame is used
where it might rain or snow a lot.
Page 15
2.3. Calculation Schema
- To design a safe and efficient reinforced concrete frame, we must
first determine the forces and moments acting on each member.
This process begins with creating a "calculation schema" or a
structural model.
- This model simplifies the physical frame into a series of lines
representing the centerlines of beams and columns.[10] We define
the support conditions—whether they are pinned, fixed, or roller
supports—and apply the anticipated loads.
- The loads are categorized as:
• Dead Loads: The self-weight of the structure and permanent
fixtures (walls, floors, etc.).
• Live Loads: Variable loads due to occupants, furniture, and
movable equipment.
• Environmental Loads: Wind loads, seismic (earthquake) loads,
and snow loads.[2]
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2.3. Calculation Schema
- Once the model and loads are defined, we employ structural analysis
methods to determine the internal forces. For simple, determinate
structures, the principles of statics are sufficient. However, most
concrete frames are indeterminate, meaning the equations of static
equilibrium alone are not enough to solve for the unknown forces.[7]
- For indeterminate frames, we use more advanced methods such as:
• Moment Distribution Method: An iterative method for analyzing
indeterminate frames.[2]
• Slope-Deflection Method: Relates moments at the ends of
members to the rotations and deflections.[2]
• Finite Element Method (FEM): A powerful numerical technique
used in modern structural analysis software to analyze complex
frames.[2][10]
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2.3. Calculation Schema
Page 18
2.4. Internal Efforts in Frame
- When a frame is subjected to external loads, internal forces, or
"efforts," develop within its members to maintain equilibrium.[11] The
three primary internal forces are:
• Axial Force (N): A force that acts along the longitudinal axis of a
member. It can be tensile (pulling the member apart) or compressive
(pushing it together).[12] Columns are primarily subjected to
compressive axial forces.
• Shear Force (V): The algebraic sum of transverse forces acting on one
side of a section.[12] It is the force that tends to cause one part of a
member to slide past another.
• Bending Moment (M): The algebraic sum of the moments of all forces
acting on one side of a section.[12] It is what causes a member to
bend or flex. Beams are primarily designed to resist bending
moments.[13]
The distribution of these internal forces is visualized using Shear Force
Diagrams (SFD) and Bending Moment Diagrams (BMD). These diagrams
graphically represent the variation of shear and moment along the length
of a member, allowing engineers to identify critical locations of maximum
stress.[12] Page 19
2.5. Reinforcing Steel Design
- After determining the maximum axial forces, shear forces, and
bending moments, we proceed to design the steel reinforcement. The
fundamental principle is that concrete resists compression, and steel
resists tension.[6]
- The design process involves:
• Flexural Design (for Bending): We calculate the amount of
longitudinal steel rebar required to resist the tensile stresses
induced by bending moments. It is crucial to ensure an "under-
reinforced" design, where the steel yields before the concrete
crushes, providing a ductile failure that gives warning.[14][15]
• Shear Design: We design transverse reinforcement, known as
stirrups or ties, to resist shear forces. These are typically smaller
diameter bars bent into rectangular or circular shapes that enclose
the main longitudinal bars.
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2.5. Reinforcing Steel Design
- After determining the maximum axial forces, shear forces, and
bending moments, we proceed to design the steel reinforcement. The
fundamental principle is that concrete resists compression, and steel
resists tension.[6]
- The design process involves (continues):
• Flexural Design (for Bending):
• Shear Design:
• Column Design: Columns are designed for both axial load and
bending moments. The design involves creating an interaction
diagram that shows the column's capacity under various
combinations of axial force and moment.[16]
• Reinforcement Detailing: This is a critical step where we specify the
exact placement, spacing, anchorage lengths, and bends of the
reinforcement.[4] Proper detailing ensures that the steel is
effective in resisting the calculated forces and is adequately
protected by a concrete cover to prevent corrosion.[4][14]
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2.6. Expansion, Settlement and Seismic Joints
- Large concrete structures are not static; they move. These
movements can be caused by thermal expansion and contraction,
settlement of the foundation, and ground motion during an
earthquake.[17][18] If these movements are restrained, they can
induce significant stresses, leading to cracking and structural
damage.[19][20] To accommodate these movements safely, we
incorporate various types of joints.
• Expansion Joints (or Movement Joints): These are designed gaps
that completely separate parts of a structure to allow for
movement caused by temperature changes, shrinkage, or
creep.[17][20] They prevent the buildup of stress that could
otherwise cause cracking.[19]
• Settlement Joints: When different parts of a building are expected
to settle at different rates (e.g., due to varying soil conditions or
different building heights), settlement joints are provided to allow
for this differential movement without damaging the structure.
Page 22
2.6. Expansion, Settlement and Seismic Joints
• Seismic Joints: In earthquake-prone regions, seismic joints are
crucial. They are wider gaps that separate a large building into
smaller, structurally independent sections.[17][20] This allows the
different sections to move independently during an earthquake,
preventing them from colliding and causing severe damage.[20]
- The proper design and placement of these joints are determined by
a structural engineer based on the building's size, geometry, and
location.[19]
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Group Discussion / Presentation Topics
- Now, to apply what we've learned, I'd like you to break into groups
and discuss the following scenarios. After 20 minutes, each group will
present their key findings.
1. Scenario 1: You are designing a large, single-story warehouse in a
region with significant temperature fluctuations. What type of frame
would you likely choose and why? What specific type of joint would
be critical to include in your design, and where would you locate it?
2. Scenario 2: A 20-story residential building is being designed in a
high-seismic zone. Discuss the importance of a braced frame system
versus a rigid frame system. How would the internal forces in the
columns of the lower floors differ from those in the upper floors
during a seismic event? What role do seismic joints play in such a
structure?
3. Scenario 3: During the construction of a simple reinforced
concrete beam, an inspector notes that the reinforcing steel has been
placed with insufficient concrete cover. Explain the potential long-
term consequences of this error and why reinforcement detailing is a
crucial part of the design process. Page 24