RF Concrete Members Manual en

RF-CONCRETE
Members
Reinforced Concrete
Design
User
Manual
Version
June 2020
Short Overview
1 Introduction 5
2 Theoretical Background 8
3 Input Data 58
Dlubal Software GmbH
4 Calculation 104 Am Zellweg 2
93464 Tiefenbach
Germany
5 Results 114
Telephone: +49 9673 9203-0
6 Results Evaluation 148 Fax: +49 9673 9203-51
E-mail: [email protected]
7 Printout 160
Dlubal Software, Inc.
The Graham Building
8 General Functions 165 30 South 15th Street
15th Floor
9 Examples 170 Philadelphia, PA 19102
USA
Phone: +1 267 702-2815

E-mail: [email protected]
A Literature 210
All rights, including those of translations,
are reserved. No portion of this book may
be reproduced - mechanically,
electronically, or by any other means,
including photocopying - without written
permission of Dlubal Software.
Using the Manual
The program description is organized in chapters that follow the order and structure of the input
and result windows. The chapters present the individual windows column by column. They help
to better understand the functioning of the add-on module. General functions are described in
the manual of the main program RFEM.
Hint Topicality
The text of the manual shows the described The high quality standards placed on the
buttons in square brackets, for example software are guaranteed by a continuous
[OK]. In addition, they are pictured on the development of the program versions. This
left. Expressions appearing in dialog boxes, may result in differences between program
tables, and menus are set in italics to clarify description and the current software version
the explanation. You can also use the you are using. Thank you for your
search function for the Knowledge Base understanding that no claims can be
and FAQs to find a solution in the posts derived from the figures and descriptions.
about add-on modules. We always try to adapt the documentation
to the current state of the software.
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Table of Contents RF-CONCRETE Members - User Manual
Table of Contents
1 Introduction 5 3.6.3 Reinforcement Layout 84

3.6.4 Min Reinforcement 87
1.1 Add-on Module RF-CONCRETE Members 5
3.6.5 Shear Joint 89
1.2 Using the Manual 6
3.6.6 Standard 90
1.3 Starting RF-CONCRETE Members 6
3.6.7 Serviceability Limit State 92
3.6.8 Tapered 98
3.6.9 Fire Resistance 100
2 Theoretical Background 8
3.7 Deflection Data 102
2.1 Ultimate Limit State Design 8
2.1.1 Bending and Axial Force 8
2.1.2 Shear Force 9 4 Calculation 104
2.1.3 Shear Forces Between Web and Flanges of T- 12
4.1 Details 104
Beams
4.1.1 Ultimate Limit State 104
2.1.4 Shear Force Transfer in Joints 13
4.1.2 Serviceability 105
2.2 Serviceability Limit State Design 16
4.2 Details for Nonlinear Calculation 106
2.2.1 Provided Reinforcement 16
4.2.1 Analysis Method 106
2.2.2 Limitation of Stresses 16
4.2.2 Tension Stiffening 109
2.2.3 Minimum Reinforcement 17
4.2.3 Iteration Parameters 111
2.2.4 Crack Width Control 18
4.3 Check 112
2.2.5 Limitation of Deformations 21
4.4 Starting the Calculation 113
2.2.6 Creep and Shrinkage 22
2.3 Fire Resistance Design 28
2.3.1 Subdivision of Cross-Section 29
5 Results 114
2.3.2 Reduction of Cross-Section 29
2.3.3 Stress-Strain Curve of Concrete 31 5.1 Required Reinforcement 115
2.3.4 Stress-Strain Curve of Reinforcing Steel 34 5.1.1 Required Reinforcement by Cross-Section 115
2.4 Nonlinear Design 37 5.1.2 Required Reinforcement by Set of Members 118
2.4.1 Method 37 5.1.3 Required Reinforcement by Member 118
2.4.2 Strain and Curvature 38 5.1.4 Required Reinforcement by x-Location 119
2.4.3 Tension Stiffening 39 5.1.5 Required Reinforcement Not Designable 120
2.4.3.1 Model: Tensile Strength of Concrete 40 5.2 Provided Reinforcement 121
2.4.3.2 Modified Characteristic Steel Curve 42 5.2.1 Provided Longitudinal Reinforcement 121
2.4.4 Mean Moment-Curvature Relation 43 5.2.2 Provided Shear Reinforcement 126
2.4.5 Determination of Element Stiffnesses 44 5.2.3 Provided Reinforcement by x-Location 129
2.4.5.1 Bending Stiffness 44 5.2.4 Steel Schedule 130
2.4.5.2 Longitudinal, Shear and Torsional Stiffness 45 5.3 Serviceability Limit State Design 132
2.4.6 Creep and Shrinkage 49 5.3.1 Serviceability Check by Cross-Section 132
2.4.7 Ultimate Limit State 50 5.3.2 Serviceability Check by Set of Members 135
2.4.7.1 Material Properties 51 5.3.3 Serviceability Check by Member 136
2.4.7.2 Safety Design 52 5.3.4 Serviceability Check by x-Location 136
2.4.8 Serviceability Limit State 54 5.4 Fire Resistance Design 137
2.4.9 Convergence 56 5.4.1 Fire Resistance Design by Cross-Section 137
5.4.2 Fire Resistance Design by Set of Members 139
5.4.3 Fire Resistance Design by Member 140
3 Input Data 58 5.4.4 Fire Resistance Design by x-Location 140
5.4.5 Fire Resistance Design Not Designable 141
3.1 General Data 58
5.5 Nonlinear Calculation 142
3.1.1 Ultimate Limit State 61
5.5.1 Nonlinear Calculation - Ultimate Limit State 142
3.1.2 Serviceability Limit State 63
5.5.2 Nonlinear Calculation - Serviceability 144
3.1.3 Details 65
5.5.3 Nonlinear Calculation - Fire Resistance 146
3.1.4 Fire Resistance 66
5.5.4 Nonlinear Calculation - Design Details 147
3.2 Materials 67
3.3 Cross-Sections 69
3.4 Ribs 73
6 Results Evaluation 148
3.5 Supports 75
3.6 Reinforcement 77 6.1 Reinforcement Proposal 148
3.6.1 Longitudinal Reinforcement 80 6.2 3D Rendering of Reinforcement 152
3.6.2 Stirrups 82 6.3 Results on RFEM Model 155
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Table of Contents RF-CONCRETE Members - User Manual
6.3.1 Background Graphic and View Mode 155

6.3.2 RFEM Work Window 156
6.4 Result Diagrams 159
7 Printout 160
7.1 Printout Report 160
7.2 Graphic Printout 162
8 General Functions 165

8.1 Design Cases 165
8.2 Cross-Section Optimization 167
8.3 Units and Decimal Places 168
8.4 Export of Results 168
9 Examples 170
9.1 Direct Deformation Analysis 170
9.1.1 Input Data 170
9.1.2 Initial Values of Deformation Analysis 171
9.1.3 Curvature for Uncracked Sections (State I) 172
9.1.4 Curvature for Cracked Sections (State II) 173
9.1.5 Determination of Deflection 174
9.1.6 Results in RF-CONCRETE Members 175
9.2 Nonlinear Deformation Analysis 178
9.2.1 Input Data 178
9.2.2 Input in RF-CONCRETE Members 179
9.2.3 Checking the Reinforcement 182
9.2.4 Specifications for Nonlinear Calculation 182
9.2.5 Results of RF-CONCRETE Members 186
9.2.6 Manual Calculation 187
9.2.6.1 Material Properties for Deformation Analysis 187
9.2.6.2 State I (uncracked) 187
9.2.6.3 State II (cracked) 189
9.2.6.4 Mean Curvatures 192
9.2.7 Results Evaluation 194
9.3 Stability Analysis for Bracket 197
9.3.1 Model in RFEM 197
9.3.2 Nonlinear Calculation 200
9.3.2.1 EN 1992-1-1, 5.7 200
9.3.2.2 EN 1992-1-1, 5.8.6 205
10 Literature 210
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1 Introduction RF-CONCRETE Members - User Manual
1 Introduction
1.1 Add-on Module RF-CONCRETE Members

RF-CONCRETE Members is an add-on module for RFEM. It is completely integrated into the RFEM user
interface, which ensures a continuous calculation and design of reinforced concrete components
available in RFEM in the form of framework structure elements.
The add-on module imports all relevant model parameters such as materials, cross-sections, members,
sets of members, ribs, supports, as well as internal forces of load cases and combinations from RFEM.
The program also allows for design alternatives with modified cross-sections including optimization.
RF-CONCRETE Members analyzes the ultimate and serviceability limit states. The analyses for cracks
and deflections are performed by calculating crack widths and deformations directly.
Designs are possible according to the following standards:
EN 1992-1-1:2004/A1:2014
DIN 1045-1:2008-08
DIN 1045:1988-07
ACI 318-19
ACI 318-14
ACI 318-11
CSA A23.3-19
CSA A23.3-14 (R2015)
SIA 262:2013
SIA 262:2017
GB 50010-2010
The figure on the left shows the National Annexes for EN 1992-1-1 [1] that are currently
National Annexes for implemented in RF-CONCRETE Members. Optionally, the program checks if the requirements of the
EN 1992-1-1 fire protection design according to EN 1992-1-2:2004 [2] are fulfilled.
The determined required reinforcement contains a reinforcement concept, which takes user
specifications for rebars in the longitudinal and shear reinforcement into account. This reinforcement
layout can be adjusted at any time. The designs related to the modifications will be updated
automatically.
RF-CONCRETE Members also allows for a nonlinear analysis (state II) considering Tension Stiffening.
In addition, the influence of creep and shrinkage can be determined.
The inserted reinforcement is visualized photo-realistically – both in the add-on module and on the
concrete cross-sections of the RFEM model. This realistic representation of the reinforcement cage can
be documented in the printout report with the design's remaining input and output data.
We hope you will enjoy working with RF-CONCRETE Members.
Your Dlubal Software team
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1.2 Using the Manual

Topics such as installation, graphical user interface, results evaluation, and printout are described in
detail in the manual of the main program RFEM. This manual focuses on typical features of the add-on
module RF-CONCRETE Members.
The descriptions in this manual follow the sequence and structure of the module's input and results
windows. In the text, the described buttons are given in square brackets, for example [View Mode].
At the same time, they are pictured on the left. Expressions that appear in dialog boxes, tables,
windows, and menus are set in italics to clarify the explanation.
If you do not find what you are looking for, use the search function of the Knowledge Base to find a
solution among the articles. You may also consult the FAQs on our website.
1.3 Starting RF-CONCRETE Members

RFEM provides the following options to start the RF-CONCRETE Members add-on module.
Menu
To start the add-on module, use the RFEM menu item
Add-on Modules Design - Concrete RF-CONCRETE Members.
Figure 1.1 Menu Add-on Modules Design - Concrete RF-CONCRETE Members
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Navigator
Alternatively, you can open the add-on module in the Data navigator by double-clicking
Add-on Modules RF-CONCRETE Members.
Figure 1.2 Data navigator: Add-on Modules RF-CONCRETE Members
Panel
If results from RF-CONCRETE Members are already available in the RFEM model, you can start the
design module in the panel:
Set the relevant design case of RF-CONCRETE Members in the load case list of the menu bar. Click the
[Show Results] button to display the reinforcements graphically.
You can now click the button in the panel to start the add-on module.
Figure 1.3 [RF-CONCRETE Members] panel button
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2 Theoretical Background RF-CONCRETE Members - User Manual
2 Theoretical Background
2.1 Ultimate Limit State Design

We forgo a detailed description of linear design methods, because the manual is not meant to replace
reference books.
2.1.1 Bending and Axial Force
The standards EN 1992-1-1, clause 6.1 or DIN 1045-1, clause 10.2 describe the calculation basis for
the ultimate limit state design in detail. These regulations apply to bending with or without axial force,
as well as to axial force only.
The mathematical state of failure occurs when the ultimate strains are reached. Depending on where
these ultimate strains occur, the failure can be caused by the concrete or the reinforcing steel.
The following figure shows the allowable strain distributions for bending with and without axial force
according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 6.1.
Figure 2.1 Mathematically possible strain distributions in the ultimate limit state
According to [3] , the areas for strain distributions shown in the figure have the following meaning:
Area 1
This area appears in the case of a central tension force or a tension force with slight eccentricity. Only
strains occur on the entire cross-section. The statically effective cross-section consists only of the two
reinforcement layers As1 and As2. The reinforcement fails because the ultimate strain εud is reached.
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Area 2
Area 2 appears in the case of pure bending and bending with axial force (compression and tension
force). The neutral axis lies within the cross-section. The bending-tension reinforcement is fully used,
meaning the steel fails when the ultimate strain is reached. Generally, the concrete cross-section is not
fully used: The compressive strains do not reach the ultimate strain εc2u.
Area 3
This area appears only in case of pure bending and bending with axial force (compression). The
steel's load-bearing capacity is higher than the load-bearing capacity of the concrete. The concrete
fails because its ultimate strain εc2u is reached.
As in the areas 1 and 2, the concrete's failure is announced by cracks because the steel exceeds the
yield point (failure with announcement).
Area 4
Area 4 appears in case of bending with a longitudinal compression force. It represents the transition of
a cross-section mainly subjected to bending to a cross-section affected by compression. The concrete
fails before the steel's yield point is reached because the possible strains are very small. This area
results in a strongly reinforced cross-section. To avoid such a cross-section, a compression
reinforcement is inserted.
Small steel strains in the tension zone result in failure without announcement (the bending-tension
reinforcement does not start to yield).
Area 5
This area appears in case of a compression force with slight eccentricity (a column, for example) or a
centric compression force. On the entire cross-section, only compressive strains occur.
The compressive strain on the edge that is less compressed is between 0 > εc1 > εc2. All compressive
strain distributions intersect in point C.
2.1.2 Shear Force
The check of shear force resistance is to be performed only in the ultimate limit state (ULS). The actions
and resistances are considered with their design values. The general design requirement according to
EN 1992-1-1, clause 6.2.1 is the following:
VEd ≤ VRd
where
VEd : design value of applied shear force

VRd : design value of shear force resistance
Depending on the failure mechanism, the design value of the shear force resistance is determined by
one of the following three values.
VRd,c : design shear resistance of a structural component without shear reinforcement

V Rd,s : design shear resistance of a structural component with shear reinforcement, limited by the
yield point of shear reinforcement (failure of tie)
VRd, max : design shear resistance limited by strength of concrete compression strut
If the acting shear force VEd remains below the value of VRd,c, no calculated shear reinforcement is
necessary and the check is verified.
If the applied shear force VEd is higher than the value of VRd,c, a shear reinforcement must be designed.
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The shear reinforcement must resist the entire shear force. In addition, the bearing capacity of the
concrete compression strut must be analyzed.
VEd ≤ VRd,s and VEd ≤ VRd,max

The various types of shear force resistance are determined according to EN 1992-1-1 as follows.
Design shear resistance without shear reinforcement

The design value for the design shear resistance VRd,c may be determined with:
C Rdc k l f ck k 1 s

1

V Rdc 100s b d
3

cp
w
Equation 2.1 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (6.2a)
where
CRd,c recommended value: 0.18 / γc
200 scaling factor for considering cross-section depth

k 1 2
0 d : mean static depth in [mm]
d
A sl ratio of longitudinal reinforcement

s l 0
02 Asl : area of tensile reinforcement, which extends by at least
b w d
(lbd + d) beyond the considered cross-section
fck characteristic value of concrete compressive strength in [N/mm2]
k1 recommended value: 0.15
bw minimum cross-section width within tension zone in [mm]
d static effective depth of bending reinforcement in [mm]
N Ed design value of concrete longitudinal stress in [N/mm2]

s cp 0
2 f cd
Ac
It is allowed, however, to apply a minimum value of the shear force resistance VRd,c,min.
v min k 1 s
V Rdcmin b w d

cp
Equation 2.2 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (6.2b)
where
v min 0
035 k 3 f ck
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Design shear resistance with shear reinforcement

The following applies for structural components with shear reinforcement running perpendicular to the
component's axis (α = 90°):
A sw
V Rds z f ywd cot q
s
Equation 2.3 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (6.8)
where
Asw cross-sectional area of shear reinforcement
s spacing of links
z lever arm of the internal forces assumed with 0.9 d
fywd design yield strength of shear reinforcement
θ inclination of concrete compression strut
The inclination of the concrete compression strut θ may be selected within certain limits depending on
the loading. This way, the equation can take into account the fact that a part of the shear force is
resisted by crack friction and the virtual truss is thus less stressed. The following limits are recommended
in equation (6.7) of EN 1992-1-1:
1 ≤ cot θ ≤ 2.5
Thus, the compression strut inclination θ can vary between the following values:
Minimum Maximum
inclination inclination
θ 21.8° 45.0°
cot θ 2.5 1.0
Table 2.1 Recommended limits for inclination of compression strut
Design shear resistance of concrete compression strut

The following applies for structural components with shear reinforcement running perpendicular to the
component's axis (α = 90°):
a cw b w z n 1 f cd
V Rdmax
cot q tan q
Equation 2.4 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (6.9)
where
αcw coefficient for considering stress state in compression flange
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bw cross-section width
z lever arm of the internal forces (precisely calculated in bending design)
ν1 reduction factor for concrete strength in case of shear cracks
fcd design value of concrete strength
2.1.3 Shear Forces Between Web and Flanges of T-Beams
The longitudinal shear stress vEd,f at the junction between flange and web is determined by the
longitudinal force difference Δ Fd,f in the flange's governing part according to EN 1992-1-1, clause
6.2.4 (3), equation (6.20).
F df
v Edf
h f x f
Equation 2.5
where
hf flange thickness at junction
Δxf considered length
ΔFd,f longitudinal force difference in flange over length Δx
The maximum value that may be assumed for the length Δxf is half the distance between the maximum
and the zero point of moments. Where concentrated loads are applied, the distance between the
concentrated loads should not be exceeded.
The determination of Δ Fd,f is done optionally with a control available in the module details according
to two different methods that are described below.
1. Simplified method via inner lever arm z = 0.9d without considering Mz,Ed
MyEd NEd beffi for compression flanges

Fdi
z s

z z beff
M yEd N Ed A sa for tension flanges

F di
z s N Ed

z z As
where
zs distance between centroid of cross-section and tension reinforcement
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z lever arm of internal forces 0.9 d
beff,i width of adjacent flange (compression flange) or width of reinforcement distribution in

adjacent flange (tension flange) considering the Distribute reinforcement evenly over
complete slab width option (see Figure 3.30 )
beff flange width
Asa reinforcement exposed in connected tension flange
As total area of tension reinforcement
2. Calculation of Fd from general stress integration in partial areas of cross-section
The required tension flange reinforcement due to shear forces per unit length asf may be determined
according to equation (6.21).
v Edf h f
a sf
cot q f f yd
where
1.0 ≤ cot θf ≤ 2.0 inclination of concrete compression strut for compression flanges
1.0 ≤ cot θf ≤ 1.25 inclination of concrete compression strut for tension flanges
fyd design yield strength of reinforcement
At the same time, the compression struts in the flange must be prevented from failing, which is ensured if
the following requirement is met:
v Ed n 1 f cd sin q f cos q
f
Equation 2.6 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (6.22)
where
fcd design value of concrete strength
ν1 reduction factor for concrete strength in case of shear cracks
2.1.4 Shear Force Transfer in Joints
When concrete components are added retroactively, the transfer of shear force between the different
casting zones must be designed. These so-called shear joints occur for concrete structural components
of different ages. In such a case, for example, you need to consider joints between precast parts and
cast-in-place concrete additions, or connection joints between construction stages during reconstruction,
new construction, or renovation.
The shear force transfer should be designed as follows:
n Edi n Rdi
Equation 2.7 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (6.23)
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There are two possibilities for calculating the shear stress in the shear joint:
1. Calculation from Vz,Ed and factor β according to EN 1992-1-1, equation (6.24)

without considering Mz,Ed
In this case, vEdi is the design value of the shear force to be resisted per unit of length in the joint. This
value is determined by [1] equation (6.24).
b V Ed
v Edi
z b i
Equation 2.8 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (6.24)
where
β quotient from longitudinal force in concrete topping and total longitudinal force in
compression or tension zone in considered cross-section
VEd design value of applied shear force
z lever arm of combined cross-section
bi width of joint
The design value of the shear resistance vRdi is determined by the following equation:
v Rdi c f ctd m s n r f yd
m sin a cos a 0
5n f cd
Equation 2.9 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (6.25)
where
c, μ coefficients that depend on roughness of joint according to [1] 6.2.5 (2)
fctd design value of concrete tensile strength according to [1] 3.1.6 (2)P
σn smallest stress perpendicular to joint, which acts simultaneously with shear force
(positive for compression) where σn < 0.6 ⋅ fcd
ρ As / Ai
where
As cross-sectional area of reinforcement crossing the joint
Ai area of connection joint
α inclination angle of joint reinforcement
ν strength reduction factor according to [1] 6.2.2 (6)
2. Calculation from difference of axial forces in added concrete part from general
stress integration
The rigid bond assumed for the design of shear joints in the ULS should be primarily reached by an
adhesive bond, that is, adhesion and micromechanical gearing. Hence, the joint reinforcement is
responsible for the transfer of forces after overcoming the rigid bond, as well as for the ductility of the
connection, while the shear joint would have to be designed solely for the adhesive bond.
In the current standards, this approach is accommodated only to a minor degree. Though a movable
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bond is allowed, it is conservatively differentiated and complemented by construction rules, to be on

the safe side.
For shear joints, which are designed for the ultimate limit state for a moveable bond as planned,
serviceability limit state designs must additionally be performed. For this case, the moveable bond must
be consistently included in the determination of the internal forces and stresses in the ULS and SLS.
Self-equilibrating stresses normally involving shear stresses in the joint (due to the varying shrinkage
behavior of two concrete components of different ages, for example) are generally not considered.
The acting shear force vEdi is solely calculated from internal forces on the cross-section.
Figure 2.2 Shear stresses in joints according to [4]
Figure 2.2 shows a section of the length dx from a beam with a shear joint parallel to the structural
component's axis. The variable bending moment causes a change in the flange forces along the
length. For example, the following applies to the compression flange:
dM Ed V Eddx
dF cd
z z
There is an equilibrium between the compression force change and the shear stresses in the joint.
dF cd V Eddx V Ed
t Ed
bdx bzdx bz
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Thus, for a constant lever arm z, the stress of the shear joint is in proportion to the shear force VEd, with
a constant axial force having no influence on the shear force in the joint parallel to the component
axis.
If the shear joint lies within the compression zone, only the portion of the flange force difference
between joint and compression flange edge must be transferred. As a result, τEd becomes:
F cdi V Ed
t Ed
F cd bz
2.2 Serviceability Limit State Design

The serviceability limit state designs consist of various individual designs that are specified, for
example, for the Eurocode in the following clauses:
Stress limitation: EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.2

Crack control: EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.3
Deflection control: EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.4
2.2.1 Provided Reinforcement
In the serviceability limit state design, it is first analyzed whether the cross-section can be reinforced,
and if the reinforcement proposal can be placed in the cross-section. If this is not the case, no
serviceability will be designed for this member.
The serviceability limit state designs are performed with the reinforcement areas available in window
3.1 Provided Longitudinal Reinforcement.
2.2.2 Limitation of Stresses
Concrete compressive stresses

The concrete compressive stresses must be limited according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.2 (1), in order
to avoid cracks or strong creep in case they could affect the structure's function. Therefore, clause
7.2 (2) recommends applying a reduction factor for the characteristic concrete compressive strength.
s c k 1 f ck
The recommended value for k1 is 0.6.
Reinforcing steel stresses

To avoid inelastic strains, unallowable cracking, and deformations, the tension stresses in the
reinforcement must be limited according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.2 (4). Clause 7.2 (5) recommends
reduction factors for the characteristic tensile strength, which depend on the type of action
combination.
σs = k3 ⋅ fyk for characteristic action combination

σs = k4 ⋅ fyk for indirect action (restraint)
The recommended values for k3 and k4 are 0.8 and 1.0.
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2.2.3 Minimum Reinforcement
The minimum reinforcement area for crack control is determined according to EN 1992-1-1, clause
7.3.2 (2), Eq. (7.1), simplified as follows:
A smin s s k c k f cteff A ct
Equation 2.10 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (7.1)
where
As,min : minimum area of reinforcing steel in tension zone

σs : allowable stress of reinforcing steel according to Figure 2.3
kc : factor for considering stress distribution in tension zone

kc = 1.0 for pure tension
kc = 0.4 for bending
For bending with axial force, kc is determined as follows:
s c
k 1
h h f cteff
k c 0
4
1 * 1
Equation 2.11 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (7.2)
where
σc : mean concrete stress acting on part of section under consideration
σc = NEd / (b ⋅ h)
NEd : axial force acting on part of cross-section under consideration
h* = h < 1.0 m
k1 : coefficient for considering effects of axial forces on stress distribution:
k1=1.5 for NEd = compressive force
k1 = 2h*/3h for NEd = tensile force
k : coefficient to consider nonlinearly distributed self-equilibrating stresses
k = 1.0 for webs with h ≤ 300mm
k = 0.65 for h ≥ 800 mm
k = 1.0 for restraint caused outside (e.g. column settlement)
fct,eff = fctm : mean value of effective tensile strength of concrete when cracks occur
Act : area of concrete tension zone
Figure 2.3 Limit diameter Øs* for reinforcing steels according to EN 1992-1-1, Table 7.2
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2.2.4 Crack Width Control
Checking rebar diameter

The limit diameter of reinforcing bars with max Øs is checked in accordance with EN 1992-1-1, clause
7.3.3 (2) as follows.
f cteff k c h cr
2h d
s *s for bending
2 9
f cteff h cr
8
h d
s *s for uniformly distributed tensile normal stresses
2 9
where
Øs* : limit diameter according to Figure 2.3
fct, eff : effective tensile strength of concrete at relevant point of time, in this case fctm
kc : factor for considering stress distribution in tension zone, see chapter 2.2.3
hcr : depth of tension zone immediately before cracking occurs

h : overall depth of cross-section
d : effective depth up to the centroid of outside reinforcement
Design of rebar spacing

The maximum rebar spacing max sl is specified according to EN 1992-1-1, Table 7.3 (see Figure
2.4 ).
Figure 2.4 Maximum values for rebar spacings according to EN 1992-1-1, Table 7.3
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Design of crack width by direct calculation

The characteristic crack width wk is determined according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.3.4, Eq. (7.8).
w k s rmax
e sm e cm
Equation 2.12 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (7.8)
where
sr,max maximum crack spacing for final crack state according to Eq. (7.11) or (7.14)
εsm mean strain of reinforcement considering contribution of concrete to tension between

the cracks
εcm mean strain of concrete between the cracks
Maximum crack spacing sr,max

If the rebar spacing in the tension zone is not greater than 5 ⋅ (c + Ø/2), the maximum crack spacing
for the final crack state may be determined as follows according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.3.4 (3):
k 1 k 2
k 4
s rmax k 3 c
r p
eff
Equation 2.13 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (7.11)
where
k3 recommended value: 3.4 (German National Annex: 0)
c concrete cover of longitudinal reinforcement
k1 coefficient for considering the bond properties of the reinforcement

(0.8 for ribbed steel bars and 1.6 for rebars with a plain surface)
k2 coefficient for considering strain distribution

(0.5 for bending and 1.0 for pure tension)
k4 recommended value: 0.425 (German National Annex: 1/3.6)
ρp,eff effective reinforcement ratio
If the spacing of rebars within the bond exceeds 5 ⋅ (c + Ø/2) or if there is no reinforcement within the
bond in the tension zone, the following limit value of the crack width may be assumed:
3
s rmax 1 h x
Equation 2.14 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (7.14)
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Applying equations (7.11) and (7.14) are "optional" rules within the meaning of the Eurocode.
Internal study of these two crack spacing equations has shown that the explicit differentiation when
applying equation (7.14) to rebars with a larger spacing than 5 ⋅ (c + Ø/2) does not always lead to
the desired crack width. We analyzed cross-sections with slightly different rebar spacings in the range
of 5 ⋅ (c + Ø/2). For T-beam-like cross-sections and a bar spacing of 1.01 ⋅ [5 ⋅ (c + Ø/2)] using Eq.
(7.14), the result was a smaller crack spacing than with Eq. (7.11) and a bar spacing of 0.99 ⋅ [5 ⋅ (c
+ Ø/2)]. This would mean that when you increase the reinforcement content, the crack width increases
as soon as you fall below the limit value of the rebar spacing 5 ⋅ (c + Ø/2). To put it clearly: The
calculated crack width in a zone without reinforcement is smaller than in a reinforced zone!
In the program, the crack spacing is calculated using equation (7.11) by default. Optionally, it is
possible to activate sr,max as the upper limit according to equation (7.14). As a result of the
circumstance described above, the upper limit value is always taken into account, regardless of the
available rebar spacing in the tension reinforcement.
Difference of mean strain (εsm - εcm)

The difference of the mean strain of concrete and reinforcing steel is determined as follows according
to [1] 7.3.4 (2), Eq. (7.9).
eff
f cteff
s k t 1 a r
s r e p s
e e
p
eff s
sm cm 0
6
Es Es
Equation 2.15 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (7.9)
where
σs : stress in tension reinforcement assuming a cracked cross-section

kt : factor for creep of bond
kt = 0.6 for short-term loading
kt = 0.4 for long-term loading
fct,eff : effective tensile strength of concrete at relevant point of time (in this case fctm)
αe : ratio of moduli of elasticity Es / Ecm
ρeff : effective reinforcement ratio
20 www.dlubal.com
2.2.5 Limitation of Deformations
EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.4.3 allows for a simplified design of the limitation of deformations via direct
calculation. The deflections must be determined realistically: The calculation method has to match the
real structural material performance with an accuracy that corresponds to the design purpose.
The deflection is determined by double integration from the differential equation of the bending line.
However, as the stiffness of a reinforced concrete cross-section changes in parts due to cracking, the
moment-curvature diagram is nonlinear. There are big differences in curvature, and thus in deflection,
for uncracked (state I) and cracked sections (state II).
Therefore, the deflection is determined with the principle of virtual work for the location of the
maximum deformation. An approximation line is used for the curvature, connecting the extreme values
of the curvature with a line that is affine to the moment distribution.
When calculating manually, three values of the deflection are determined according to [3] :
Lower calculation value of deflection

Minimum deflection is achieved when the calculation is performed for a completely uncracked cross-
section (state I). This type of deflection is described as fI.
Upper calculation value of deflection

Maximum deflection is achieved when the calculation is performed for a completely cracked cross-
section (state II). This type of deflection is referred to as fII.
Probable value of deflection

It is fair to assume that some parts of the cross-section are uncracked, and other, highly stressed parts
are cracked. The moment-curvature relation runs up to the first crack after state I, after which it shows
some cracks. This assumption results in the probable value of the deflection f, which lies between the
lower and upper calculated value. According to EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.4.3 (3), Eq. (7.18), the value
can be derived from the following relation:
a z a II
1 z a 1
Equation 2.16 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (7.18)
The values αI and αII represent general deflection parameters (e.g. fI or fII). This can be a strain,
curvature, deflection, or rotation. ζ is the distribution coefficient between state I and state II, and lies
between 0 ≤ ζ < 1, as shown in EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (7.19). Generally, the deformation calculation is to
be performed with a quasi-permanent combination (see EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.4.3 (4)).
Chapter 9.1 describes an example where the manually performed calculation of a deformation
analysis is compared with the results of the program.
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2.2.6 Creep and Shrinkage
Determination of initial values

This chapter gives an overview of the time-dependent stresses and strains due to creep and shrinkage.
The influence of creep and shrinkage is used in the analytical serviceability limit state design for the
determination of the deformation. The approach of creep and shrinkage in the nonlinear calculation is
described in chapter 2.4.6 .
Creep is the time-dependent deformation of concrete under loading over a specific period of time. The
essential influence values are similar to those of shrinkage, with the so-called creep-producing stress
having considerable effects on the creep deformation. Special attention must be paid to the load
duration, the point of time of load application, as well as to the extent of actions. The creep
determining value is the creep coefficient φ (t, t0) at the relevant point of time t.
Shrinkage describes a time-dependent modification of volume without influence due to external

loads or temperature. We will not elaborate on further expansion of the shrinkage problem into
individual types (drying shrinkage, autogenous shrinkage, plastic shrinkage, and carbonation
shrinkage). Significant influence values of shrinkage are relative humidity, effective thickness of
structural components, aggregate, concrete strength, water-cement ratio, temperature, as well as the
type and duration of curing. The shrinkage determining value is the shrinkage strain εc,s (t, ts) at the
relevant point of time t.
Hereafter, the determination of the creep coefficient φ (t, t0) and shrinkage strain εc,s (t, ts) according to
EN 1992-1-1, clause 3.1.4 and annex B is described.
Creep coefficient φ (t, t0)

Using the following formulas requires the creep-producing stress σc of the acting permanent load to not
exceed the following value:
s c 0
45 f ckj
where
fckj : cylinder compressive strength of concrete at point of time when creep-producing stress is
applied
Figure 2.5 Creep-producing stress
Under the assumption of a linear creep behavior (σc ≤ 0.45 ⋅ fckj), the concrete's creep can be
determined by a reduction of the modulus of elasticity for concrete.
22 www.dlubal.com
E cm
t 0
E ceff
1 j eff t
where
Ecm : mean modulus of elasticity according to EN 1992-1-1, Table 3.1

φeff (t, t0) : effective creep coefficient, φeff (t, t0) = φ (t, t0) ⋅ MQP / MEd
t : age of concrete in days at relevant point of time
t0 : age of concrete in days when load application starts
The creep coefficient φ (t, t0) at the analyzed point of time t may be calculated as follows:
j
tt 0 j RH b t 0 b
f cmb tt 0
where
RH
1
100
j RH
1 a 1 a 2
0
1 3 h
0
RH : relative humidity in [%]

h0 : effective thickness of structural component in [mm]
h0 = 2 ∙ Ac / u
Ac : cross-sectional area
u : cross-section perimeter
α1, α2 : adjustment factors
α1 = (35 / fcm)0.7
α2 = (35 / fcm)0.2
fcm : mean value of cylinder compressive strength
b
f cm
16
8
f cm
fcm : mean value of cylinder compressive strength of concrete in [N/mm2]

1
b t 0
0
1 t 020
0
b t 0
t t 0
0
3
t
b H t t 0
t : age of concrete in days at relevant point of time

βH = 1.5 ⋅ [1 + (0.012 ⋅ RH)18] ⋅ h0 + 250 ⋅ α3 ≤ 1500 ⋅ α3
h0 : effective thickness of structural component [mm]
α3 : adjustment factor
α3 = (35 / fcm)0.5 ≤ 1.0
www.dlubal.com 23
The following input is required to calculate the creep coefficient:

t : age of concrete in days at relevant point of time (optionally ∞)
The influence of high or low temperature ranging from 0°C to 80°C on the concrete's maturity can be
taken into account by correcting the concrete age with the following equation:
4000
65
i
273 T t 13
n
tT e t
i
i 1
where
n number of periods with identical temperature
T (Δti) temperature in [°C] during time period Δti
Δti number of days with this temperature T
The influence of the type of cement on the concrete's creep coefficient can be taken into account by
modifying the load application age t0 with the following equation:
9 a

2
t 0T
t 0 t 0T
1

1
2

0
5

where
t0,T = tT effective age of concrete when load application starts considering influence of
temperature
α exponent, depends on type of cement, see Table 2.2
α Type of Cement
−1 slow-hardening cements of class S
0 normal- or rapid-hardening cements of class N
1 rapid-hardening, high-strength cements of class R
Table 2.2 Exponent α
24 www.dlubal.com
Example
concrete C25/30
cement CEM 42.5 N
RH: 50%
Two temperature changes:
6 days - temperature 15 °C
8 days - temperature 7 °C
Considered age of concrete tk: 365 days
Figure 2.6
Age of concrete when creeping starts:

4000 4000 4000
65 65 65
i i i
273 t D t 13 273 t D t 13 273 t D t 13
n
t t e D t i e

6 e

8
i 1
8
96 days
Age of concrete under influence of type of cement:
a
0
9 9
t 0t
t 0 t 0t
1 8
96
1 8
96

96 days
2 2
8
1
2 1
2
Effective structural component thicknesses:
2 A c 2 0 3 0
5
2 5
h0 0
1875 cm
u 03 0
Creep coefficient:
j
tt 0 j RH b t 0 b c
f cmb tt 0 1
933 2
923 0
606 0
758 2
595
where
RH 50
1 1
100 100
j RH
1 a 1 a 2
1 1
042 1
012 1
933
0
1 h0
3

0
1 187
3
5
35 0
7 35
0
7
a

1
1
042
f cm 33
35 0
2
35
0
2
a 2

1
012
f cm 33
b
f cm
16
8 16
8
2
923
f cm 33
1 1
b t 0 0

606
0
1 t 0
0
2 0
1 8
960
2
c
t t 0
t t 0
0
3
365 8
96
0
3
b 0
758
b H t t 0 538
779 365 8
96
www.dlubal.com 25
b 1 1 0
012 RH h 0 250 a 3

18
H 5
1 012 50

1
5

0 18
187
5 250 1
030 538
779
b H 1500 a 3 1500 1
030 1545
35
0
5
a 3
1
030
33
Coefficient of shrinkage ε (t, ts)

When determining the coefficient of shrinkage ε (t, ts) according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 3.1.4, the
shrinkage strain εcs (t) can be calculated from the sum of the components of the autogenous shrinkage
εca (t) and drying shrinkage εcd (t, ts).
cd
e cs
t e ca
t e tt s
The autogenous shrinkage strain εca at the relevant point of time (t) is determined as follows:
ca
e t b as
t e ca

where
b as
t 1 e 0
2 t
e ca
5
2 f ck 10106 f ck in [Nmm 2]
The component from drying shrinkage εcd is determined as follows:
cd
e tt s b ds
tt sk h e cd0
f cm
where
ds t s
t t s
b t
t t s 0
04 h 30
t age of concrete in days at relevant point of time

ts age of concrete in days when shrinkage starts
h0 effective cross-section thickness in [mm] : h0 = 2 ⋅ Ac / u
f cm

ds1
a ds2
f cm0
e cd0 0
85 220 110 a e 10 b
6
RH
fcm : mean cylinder compressive strength of concrete in [N/mm2]

fcm0 : 10 N/mm2
26 www.dlubal.com
Cement class Property αds1 αds2
S slow-hardening 3 0.13
N normal-hardening 4 0.12
R rapid-hardening 6 0.11
Table 2.3 αds1 and αds2
RH 3
b RH 1
55
1

RH
0
RH relative humidity of environment in [%]

RH0 100 %
Example
concrete C25/30
cement CEM 42.5 N
RH: 50 %
Age of concrete ts when shrinkage starts: 28 days
Considered age of concrete t: 365 days
Effective cross-section thickness:
2 A c 2 0 3 0
5
2 5
h0 0
1875 m
u 03 0
Autogenous shrinkage:
ca
e t b as
t e ca
0
978 0
0000375 0
0000367
where
as
b t 1 e 0 1 e 0
2 0
2t 0
5 365 978
e ca
5
2 f ck 10106 2
5
25 10106 0
0000367
Drying shrinkage:
cd
e tt s b ds
tt sk h e cd0 0
766 0
87 0
000512 0
000341
where
ds t s
t t s 365 28
b t 0
766
t t s 0
04 h 30 365 28 0
04 187
53
h 0 187
5 mm k h 0
87
www.dlubal.com 27
f
cm
220 110 a ds1e

a ds2
f cm0
e cd0 0
85 10 b RH
6

4e
33
12
0
085 220 110 106 1 356 0
10
000512
3 50

RH 3

b 1
55
1 1
55
1 1

RH
356
RH
0
100

Cement class N ⇒ αds1 = 4; αds2 = 0.12
Total coefficient of shrinkage:
e
tt s
e cd
tt s
e ca
t0
0000367 0
000341 0
000378 0
378 ‰
2.3 Fire Resistance Design

The fire resistance design in RF-CONCRETE Members is performed by using the simplified calculation
method according to EN 1992-1-2, clause 4.2. The program uses the zone method described in
annex B.2:
In case of exposure to fire, the bearing capacity is reduced due to a reduction of the component's
cross-section and a decrease of material strengths. The concrete zones that are directly exposed to fire
and thus damaged are not taken into account for the equivalent cross-section used for the fire
resistance design. The fire protection design is performed with the reduced cross-section and the
reduced material properties analogous to the ultimate limit state design at normal temperature.
Figure 2.7 Cross-section exposed to fire with damaged zones
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2.3.1 Subdivision of Cross-Section
The cross-section is subdivided into a certain number of parallel (n ≥ 3) zones of the same thickness.
For each zone, the program determines the mean temperature, the corresponding compressive strength
fc,θ, and, if necessary, the modulus of elasticity.
Figure 2.8 Subdivision of a wall with both sides exposed to fire into zones according to [2] , Figure B.4
The cross-section exposed to fire is compared to an equivalent wall. The width of the equivalent wall is
2 ⋅ w. The equivalent width is subdivided symmetrically in several zones as shown in Figure 2.8 .
Half of the equivalent width w depends on the fire load acting on the structural component. The
following Table 2.4 gives an overview of the determination of equivalent widths conforming to the
standard.
Fire load Half of equivalent width w
Structural component with one side exposed Structural component width in direction of fire
to fire effects
Column or wall with both sides (facing each 0.5 ⋅ structural component width in direction
other) exposed to fire of fire effects
Column with four sides exposed to fire 0.5 ⋅ smaller cross-section dimension
Table 2.4 Determination of equivalent widths
2.3.2 Reduction of Cross-Section
Determination of temperature θi in center of zone

After the cross-section's subdivision into zones, the temperature θi in the center of each i zone is
determined. This occurs based on the temperature courses according to EN 1992-1-2, Annex A, which
are based on the following assumptions:
The specific heat of concrete corresponds to the specifications according to EN 1992-1-2, clause
3.2.2.
The moisture is 1.5 % (the specified temperatures are on the safe side for moistures > 1.5 %).
The thermal conductivity of concrete is the lower limit value mentioned in EN 1992-1-2, clause 3.3.3.
The emission value for the concrete surface is 0.7.
The convective heat-transmission coefficient is 25 W/m2K.
www.dlubal.com 29
Determination of reduction factor kc (θi)

The reduction factor kc (θi) is determined for the temperature found in the i zone's center in order to
take the decrease of the characteristic concrete compressive strength fck into account. This reduction
factor kc (θi) depends on the concrete's aggregates:
According to EN 1992-1-2, Figure 4.1, graph 1 is to be used for normal concrete with aggregates
containing quartz, and graph 2 for normal concrete with aggregates containing limestone.
Figure 2.9 Factor kc (θi) for considering decrease of concrete compressive strength according to [2] Figure 4.1
Determination of damaged zone with thickness az

The cross-section damaged by fire is represented by a reduced cross-section. Consequently, a
damaged zone of thickness az on the sides exposed to fire is not taken into account for the ultimate
limit state design.
Figure 2.10 Reduction of strength and cross-section in case of fire exposure according to [2] Figure B.3
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The calculation of the damaged zone thickness az depends on the structural component type:
Beams, plates
k cm
k c
q M
a z w
1

Columns, walls, and other structural components for which effects due to the second-order
analysis must be taken into account
1
3
k cm
a z w k
1

q
c M
where
w half the width of the equivalent wall
kc,m mean reduction coefficient for a specific cross-section
02
1
i 1 k c
n n
k cm q i
n
n : number of parallel zones in w
The temperature change in each zone is taken into account with the factor (1 - 0.2/n).
kc(θM) reduction coefficient for concrete at point M (see Figure 2.9 )
2.3.3 Stress-Strain Curve of Concrete
Point M, a point on the central line of the equivalent wall (cf. Figure 2.8 ), is governing for the
reduction of the concrete's material properties. It is used to determine the reduction factor kc (θM). The
concrete's reduced material properties are to be used for the entire reduced cross-section (without
damaged zone az) for the ultimate limit state design in case of fire.
Compressive strength of concrete for fire resistance design

The stress-strain curve for the concrete's compressive strength is determined depending on the
temperature in point M and the type of aggregates. The values of the compressive strain εcu1,θ for the
compression strength fc,θ can be found in EN 1992-1-2, Table 3.1.
f cq k c
q Mf ck
where
kc(θM) : reduction coefficient for concrete at point M (see Figure 2.9 )

fck : characteristic compressive strength of concrete at normal temperature
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Figure 2.11 Parameters of stress-strain relation for concrete in case of fire according to [2] Table 3.1
Figure 2.12 Stress-strain diagram for concrete with aggregates containing limestone, dependant on temperature
The diagram (Figure 2.12 ) shows how the stress-strain relation of normal concrete with aggregates
containing limestone changes depending on the temperature. The graph's descending branch is not
taken into account for the fire resistance design.
The concrete's reduced modulus of elasticity is determined for the fire protection design according to
the following equation:
k c
E cdq q M
E c

2

where
kc(θM) : reduction coefficient for concrete at point M (see Figure 2.9 )

Ec : modulus of elasticity of concrete at normal temperature (20 °C)
32 www.dlubal.com
Tensile strength of concrete for fire resistance design

Being on the safe side, the concrete's tensile strength is not applied for either the cross-section design or
the fire protection design. For the sake of completeness, however, the values can be found in the
description of the material properties (cf. chapter 3.2 ).
According to [2] Figure 3.2, the tensile strength of concrete is generally to be reduced for the fire
resistance design:
f ckt
q k ct
q Mf ckt
where
kc,t (θM) : reduction coefficient for concrete tensile strength according to Figure 2.13
fck,t : characteristic tensile strength of concrete at normal temperature (20 °C)
Figure 2.13 Reduction factor kc,t(θ) for considering temperature-dependent tensile strength of concrete fct according to [2] Figure 3.2
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2.3.4 Stress-Strain Curve of Reinforcing Steel
Reduction factor ks (θ) for tensile strength of steel

To determine the reduction factor ks (θ), the temperature in the center of the most unfavorable
reinforcing member must be determined first. Depending on how the reinforcing steel is produced and
classified (class N or class X), and how much it is strained, the reduction factor ks (θ) is determined.
Figure 2.14 Class N -- reduction factor ks (θ) according to [2] Figure 4.2a
Figure 2.15 Class X -- reduction factor ks (θ) according to [2] Figure 4.2b
Reduction of reinforcing steel strength fsy,θ

The stress-strain relation of reinforcing steel is defined by the following parameters:
slope in linear-elastic range Es,θ

proportionality limit fsp,θ
maximum stress level fsy,θ
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The maximum reinforcing steel strength to be applied in the fire design is determined as follows:
f syq k s
q f yk
where
ks (θ) : reduction coefficient for reinforcing steel (see Figure 2.14 or Figure 2.15 )
fyk : characteristic strength of reinforcing steel at normal temperature
Determination of reduced modulus of elasticity Es,θ of reinforcing

steel
If the reinforcing steel can be assigned to graph 1 or graph 2 of Figures 4.2a or 4.2b in EN 1992-1-2
(cf. Figure 2.14 and Figure 2.15 ), it is possible to take the reduced modulus of elasticity of the
reinforcing steel depending on the reinforcing steel temperature and the steel's type of production from
EN 1992-1-2, Table 3.2a or 3.2b. They are displayed in the following figures.
Figure 2.16 Class N -- parameters of stress-strain relation of steel according to [2] Table 3.2a
Figure 2.17 Class X -- parameters of stress-strain relation of steel according to [2] Table 3.2b
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For reinforcing steels assigned to graph 3 according to EN 1992-1-2, Figure 4.2a, the reduced
modulus of elasticity is calculated as follows:
E syq k s
q E s
where
ks (θ) : reduction coefficient for reinforcing steel (see Figure 2.14 or Figure 2.15 )
Es : modulus of elasticity of reinforcing steel at normal temperature (20 °C)
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2.4 Nonlinear Design

EN 1992-1-1 allows for a nonlinear determination of internal forces in the ultimate and serviceability
limit states. The internal forces and deformations are determined while considering the nonlinear
behavior of internal forces and deformations (physical).
2.4.1 Method
The principle for the analysis of nonlinear problems is presented by describing an example of uniaxial
bending. To determine the nonlinear diagram for deformation of internal forces, the finite element
method is used with constant equivalent stiffnesses that are element-by-element. For this reason, the
selected division of elements has a significant influence on both the results and the calculation's
convergence.
The following flowchart shows the general procedure of a nonlinear calculation.
Figure 2.18 General calculation process of a nonlinear design
The individual steps are described in the following chapters.
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2.4.2 Strain and Curvature
This chapter describes the determination of significant parameters on the cross-section level. The
description is reduced to a simple rectangular cross-section affected by uniaxial bending. The
advantage is that the moment-curvature (axial force) relation, which mirrors the stiffness development
depending on the loading the most clearly, is specified completely. The moment-curvature diagram is
therefore dependent on the cross-section's loading due to axial force.
Chapter 2.4.7.1 and chapter 2.4.8 describe the material properties that are applied for the
ultimate and serviceability limit states in detail.
The following essential relations exist between strain and curvature:
Figure 2.19 Relation between strain and curvature on infinitesimal element
The following conditions result based on the relations shown above.
dj
ds
d j tan
r
e ds e e e
dj
s cc ds s cc
d j tan ds
d d
The following results by equating
1 e s e cc

r d
where
εcc : negative for compressive strain of concrete

Taking the linear elastic material behavior as a basis, the relation between moment and curvature for
uncracked sections (state I) is as follows.
1 M

r E I
For cracked sections (state II), the direct affinity between the course of the moment graph and
curvature graph is lost. The value E ⋅ I (flexural resistance of secant) depends on the loading and is
thus no longer constant where identical geometric boundary conditions are given.
38 www.dlubal.com
The following figure illustrates the basic difference between secant and tangent stiffness.
Figure 2.20 Secant stiffness (E ⋅ I) and tangent flexural stiffness (B)
When calculating deformations, the approach depends strongly on the used method. In [5] , Quast
points out the advantages of using the transfer matrix method applying the approach of the tangential
flexural resistances (for area-by-area linearization (1/r)0 + M/BII). This may be very practical in
regards to the mentioned method or for "manual calculations" when deformations or release rotations
are to be determined with the principle of virtual work.
When the finite element method is used, calculation based on constant equivalent stiffnesses is
recommended. In order to also determine the nonlinear diagram of the cross-section's
moment-curvature relation in the area where abrupt changes of the tangential flexural stiffness occur
with a sufficient level of detail, a finer division in such transition zones (Mcr; My) is required. This is
done in the program's background by limiting the differences in stiffness of adjacent elements.
2.4.3 Tension Stiffening
When parts of the reinforced concrete are cracked, we know from the design in the ultimate limit state
that the tension forces occurring in the crack must be absorbed by the reinforcement only. Between two
cracks, however, tension stresses are transferred into the concrete by means of the (movable) bond.
Thus, in relation to the length of the structural component, the concrete participates in the absorption of
internal tension forces, which leads to increased structural component stiffness. This effect is called
effectiveness of concrete for tension between cracks or Tension Stiffening.
Figure 2.21 Stress and strain behavior between two primary cracks
www.dlubal.com 39
This increase in the structural component stiffness due to tension stiffening can be considered in two
ways:
After the crack formation, a remaining constant residual tension stress is represented in the concrete's
stress-strain diagram. The residual tension stress is notably smaller than the concrete's tensile strength.
Alternatively, it is possible to introduce modified stress-strain relations for the tension zone, which
consider the concrete's effect on tension between cracks in the form of a descending branch in the
graph after the tensile strength is reached. This procedure often proves to be sensible for numerical
calculations.
The approach that is clearer and more conventional for practical designs is the modification of the
"pure" stress-strain diagram of steel. A reduced steel strain εsm is applied in the considered
cross-section, resulting from εs2 and a reduction term due to tension stiffening.
Figure 2.22 Considering the tension stiffening effect via a) characteristic concrete curve or b) modified characteristic steel curve
In RF-CONCRETE Members, it is possible to consider the effect of Tension Stiffening by means of a

modified characteristic curve for steel according to [6] , as well as through a stress-strain curve for
concrete in the tensile zone according to [7] and [8] .
Advantages and disadvantages of these approaches and the functional application of the individual
methods are described in detail in corresponding reference books (for example [8] ).
2.4.3.1 Model: Tensile Strength of Concrete
This model that is used to determine the effectiveness of concrete on tension between cracks is based
on a defined stress-strain curve of concrete in the tension zone (parabola-rectangle diagram). The
mathematical tensile strength is no fixed value but refers to the given strain in the governing steel
(tension) fiber. The approach has been taken up in accordance with the specifications in [7] to the
effect that the maximum tensile strength fctR decreases linearly to zero, starting at the defined crack
strain until a yield strain εsy is reached in the governing steel fiber.
In several research projects (i.a. [8] ), efforts were made to refine or modify the approach of Quast
and adjust it on the basis of evaluated experiments.
The following figure illustrates the schematic approach.
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Figure 2.23 Calculation of residual tensile strength for Tension-Stiffening model according to Quast
The parabola-rectangle diagram for the tensile zone is determined according to the following formal
relations:
f ctR a red
f ctbasic
f ct
v
f ctR

e c1

e cr

v
e cr
n ct 1
05
E ctm
f ctR
ct
e sy e s2
s R with e cr e s2 e sy
ct
e sy e cr
where
αred : reduction factor of basic value of tensile strength

fct,basic : basic value of tensile strength (e.g. fctm)
fct,R : calculational tensile strength
www.dlubal.com 41
v : ratio of compressive to tensile strength

εcr : calculational strain when fcr,R is reached
nct : exponent of parabola in tension zone
σct,R : calculational stress depending on governing strain of steel fibre
εsy : calculational yield strain
εs2 : strain of governing steel fiber
2.4.3.2 Modified Characteristic Steel Curve
The Tension Stiffening effect can also be taken into account by means of a modified characteristic steel
curve. The approximate minor tangential stiffness (abrupt change in case of re-cracking) during crack
development is determined by distinguishing between crack formation and final crack state.
Stress-strain curve of steel
Figure 2.24 Modified stress-strain curve of reinforcing steel according to [6]
Explanation
Uncracked – state I (0 < σs ≤ σsr)
e sm e s1
State of first crack formation (σsr < σs ≤ 1.3σsr)
sr s
sr1
b s s s 13s s
e e e sr2 e
t sr

sm s2
3s
0 sr
State of final crack state (1.3 σsr < σs ≤ fy)
e sm e s2 b t
e sr2 e sr1
Plastic steel yielding until failure (fy < σs ≤ ft)
sr1 sy
s sr
e sm e sy b t e sr2 e d d 1

e s2 e
fy
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Descriptions:
εsm : mean steel strain

εsu : ultimate strain at failure of reinforced steel
εs1 : steel strain in uncracked state
εs2 : steel strain in cracked state (in crack)
εsr1 : steel strain in uncracked state with crack internal forces
εsr2 : steel strain in crack with crack internal forces
βt : factor for considering loading period or load repetitions
0.40 short-term loading
0.25 permanent load or frequent load changes
σsr : stress in tension reinforcement, calculated based on cracked cross-section for action
combination resulting in first crack formation
σs : steel stress in cracked state (in crack) in [N/mm2]
σd : factor for considering ductility of reinforcement
0.8 highly ductile steel
0.6 normally ductile steel
2.4.4 Mean Moment-Curvature Relation
The mean moment-curvature relation describes the relation between moment and curvature by taking
the concrete's tension stiffening effect into account. By means of discrete conditions of strain
(curvatures), it is possible to determine a corresponding moment. On the basis of the ultimate strain at
failure, the ultimate curvature is generally divided varyingly depending on the task. The disadvantage
of this approach is that it requires a very fine division in order to also represent the transition zones for
significant yield points. By connecting the respective single points, you get a continuous (polygonal)
line as the characteristic moment-curvature diagram. The diagram curve is also affected by or
dependent on the acting axial force. However, in most practical situations, it is sufficient to apply a
moment-curvature relation linearized in particular areas.
RF-CONCRETE Members determines the stiffness in a process-related way (double bending, no

constant axial force) on every element node directly from the internal force of the previous iteration.
One of the differences between the two approaches of Tension Stiffening is that in the approach by
Quast, the mean stiffness arises directly from the stress calculation. In contrast, in the approach with the
modified characteristic steel curve, the mean curvature is to be determined separately once more,
which may lead to certain losses in velocity depending on geometry and system.
For compression elements, we generally have to use the model by Quast [7] to consider the
concrete's effectiveness. The reason is the simplified calculation in the uncracked state for the model via
the modified characteristic steel curve (see chapter 2.4.3.2 and chapter 4.2.2 ).
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Figure 2.25 Examplary diagram of a moment-curvature relation
2.4.5 Determination of Element Stiffnesses
2.4.5.1 Bending Stiffness
As described in chapter 2.4.1 , the calculation is based on constant element-by-element equivalent

stiffnesses. For this approach, is important to have a very fine division in zones of significant stiffness
changes (tearing, yielding). If the element division is too coarse, the stiffness conditions may be
misinterpreted for some parts and stiffnesses may oscillate. In this case, the FE mesh must be refined in
RFEM to prevent these effects.
Another important aspect for minimizing a non-convergence of statically indeterminate systems is

damping the stiffness change. A change of stiffnesses occurring too abruptly may lead to the iteration
"breaking off", especially in cases where the stiffness decreases strongly due to cracking and yielding
(slightly reinforced cross-sections).
The following figure illustrates the relation between moment, curvature, and stiffness.
Figure 2.26 Schematic representation of relation between moment, curvature, and stiffness
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In accordance with the relations described above, the load-dependent secant stiffness arises according
to the following equation:
E I
Mx

1r
x
x
2.4.5.2 Longitudinal, Shear and Torsional Stiffness
The determination of the bending stiffness as the input parameter for the nonlinear calculation is
described in previous chapters. The remaining stiffness parameters can be determined as follows.
Longitudinal stiffness
Similar to the procedure for bending, the longitudinal stiffness E ⋅ A is determined from the ratio of the
strain ε0 to the acting axial force. When bending moment and axial force occur at the same time, it is
no longer possible to apply this relation directly because this would result in negative stiffnesses in
particular areas, provided that the approach is performed consistently. This results from the simplified
analysis not considering the shifting of the neutral axis for strain. When performing nonlinear
calculations, this axis no longer matches the centroid of the cross-section. Generally, it is possible to
take this fact into account by uncoupling the stiffness matrix from the centroid. However, this will result
in a direct correlation between moment and axial force in the terms of the stiffness matrix.
RF-CONCRETE Members does not consider axis strain due to crack formation or physical nonlinearity.
Looking at the relation between axial force and bending moment, we can see a direct correlation
between both stiffness terms. To clarify, imagine a column with a constant compression force: If an
increasing moment acts in addition to the axial force, a curvature leading to a displacement of the
resulting axial force from the centroid is added to the pure constant strain diagram. Seen from a plastic
point of view, the effective area of the resultant force is thus reduced as well, which by necessity leads
to larger strains and thereby to decreasing stiffnesses. Therefore, the approximate consideration for an
affinity between bending stiffness and strain stiffness in case of bending with axial force is a practical
solution.
Shear stiffness
Determining the shear stiffness in detail is very difficult for the design of reinforced concrete structures,
and is an endeavor that is barely manageable in regards to various geometry and load arrangements.
The beam theory quickly reaches its limits because the bearing capacity should be determined by the
truss effect in order to represent the stiffness for moderate shear loading. In the past, such models were
used to develop different methods which are generally not or only partially sufficient in their
application.
In a simplified method, Pfeiffer [8] reduces the shear stiffness in accordance with the available
bending stiffness. Even if this approach seems to be somewhat strange at first, it is the result of a basic
idea that is quite simple and plausible. Imagine that bending load and shearing stress are independent
values. When looking at the modified loading of moment and axial force, the bending stiffness
changes according to the strain and curvature diagram. However, this does not only affect the stiffness
in the beam's longitudinal direction, but also in transversal direction used to transfer shear forces.
This approach is meant as an approximation, which assumes a sufficient shear capacity, but does not
(or only roughly) determine slanting cracks, increase of tension force, etc. In spite of these
simplifications, the method according to Pfeiffer for moderately slender beams can be considered a
sufficiently accurate approach. Alternatively, we can also take the linear elastic shear stiffness as a
basis for the calculation in RF-CONCRETE Members.
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Torsional stiffness
Compared to bending stiffness, torsional stiffness is reduced strongly in case of cracking. On one hand
this is positive, as torsion moments from restraint which frequently occur in building construction are
almost completely reduced for load increments until failure is reached. On the other hand, there is the
so-called equilibrium torsion where the strong decrease of the torsional stiffness may already lead to
remarkable torsions in the serviceability state and thus to a reduction of the serviceability.
Figure 2.27 Figure from [9] about decrease of torsional stiffness in case of cracking
There are two different approaches for considering torsional stiffness available for the calculation with
RF-CONCRETE Members.
Torsional stiffness according to Leonhardt [9]
Torsional stiffness in uncracked sections (state I)
For the torsional stiffness in state I, the program takes into account that the stiffness is reduced by 30
and 35 % until the crack moment is reached. Reasons indicated by Leonhardt are the following: The
concrete core escapes the loading and the stresses are displaced to the outside. A micro crack
formation is also involved in the reduction to some extent.
x 0
G c I T
I
8 G c I T0
x as mean value
where
IT : torsional constant
Gc : shear modulus
Torsional stiffness in cracked sections (state II)
The torsional stiffness in state II is derived from a spatial truss model. For simplification, we can assume
the inclination of the compression strut to be below 45°. According to Leonhardt, this assumption is
also true when the ratios of the longitudinal and transverse reinforcement are not equal. Minor strut
inclinations result from the equilibrium analysis or from the design assumption, if the reinforcement ratio
of the links is less than the one of the longitudinal reinforcement. However, tests showed that the
assumed planer inclination of cracks only occurs for high stress.
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Tests also showed that the truss model provides a good algorithm for determining the torsional stress
for the limit of failure. However, for the serviceability state we can observe that the steel stresses in the
shear and longitudinal reinforcement do not reach the values according to the truss analogy even after
several load repetitions.
Link inclinations of 90°:
x
4 Ec
I T
A 3k 1
Gc
4a
1 j
II u 2k 1 1 Ak

kT

m L m Li u k t
Link inclinations of 45°:
x
Ec
A 2k
I T
t 1
Gc
1 j
II u 2k kT a

m Li 4
where
T ed 0
7 T cr for compression strut inclination of 90°
k T 1
T Rdsy 0
7 T cr
T Ed 0
9 T cr for compression strut inclination of 45°
k T 1
T Rdsy 0
9 T cr
A sl longitudinal reinforcement ratio related to kern

m L
Ak
a sw
uk transverse reinforcement ratio related to kern
m Li Ak
A sws w f y 2 A k

T Rdsy min

A slu k f y 2 A k

Determination of crack moment for solid cross-section:
Start: f ctr1 0
55 f 2
ck
3
End: f ctr2 0
65 f 2
ck
3
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Determination of crack moment for hollow cross-section:
Start: f ctr1 0
45 f 2
ck
3
End: f ctr2 0
55 f 2
ck
3
TRd,sy torsional moment for which steel stress in truss model reaches yield point (torsional
moment that can be absorbed)
Tcr torsional moment for transition to state II (crack moment)

W f
T ctr1

min
2 A k t f ctr1

Ak area enclosed by center line of walls
Asl cross-sectional area of longitudinal reinforcement
α ratios of moduli of elasticity Es / Ec
uk perimeter of area Ak
sw spacing of links
t effective thickness of wall
φ creeping coefficient to consider
A mutual influence of torsional and bending stiffness is not effected.
Global reduction of torsional stiffness

As an alternative, it is possible to calculate with a linear elastic torsional stiffness that is reduced on a
percentage basis in the cracked area.
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2.4.6 Creep and Shrinkage
Determining the coefficients for creep φ (t,t0) and shrinkage εc,s (t,ts) according to EN 1992-1-1, Annex
B is described in chapter 2.2.6 .
Creep and shrinkage in the model are considered by calculation as described below.
Creeping
If the strains are known at the point of time t = 0 as well as any later point of time t, the factor for
creeping φt can be specified as follows.
e
j
t
1
t e t 0
The equation is converted to the strain at the point of time t. This results in the following correlation,
which is valid for uniform stresses (less than approx. 0.4 fck).
e t e t 0
j t 1
For stresses higher than approx. 0.4 fck, the strains increase disproportionately, resulting in the loss of
the linearly assumed reference.
The calculation in RF-CONCRETE Members uses a common solution that is reasonable for construction
purposes: The concrete's stress-strain curve is distorted by the factor (1+ φ).
Figure 2.28 Distortion of stress-strain relation to determine creep effect
When taking account of creeping, uniform creep-producing stresses are assumed during the period of
load application as shown in the figure above. Due to the neglect of stress redistributions, the
deformation is slightly overestimated by this approach. In addition, this model comprises stress
reduction only in parts as the change in strains (relaxation) is not taken into account: If we assume a
linear elastic behavior, it would be possible to presume a proportionality and the horizontal distortion
would also reflect the relaxation at a ratio of (1+ φ). This context, however, is lost for the nonlinear
stress-strain relation.
This procedure thus represents an approximation. A reduction of stresses due to relaxation as well as
nonlinear creep cannot or can only approximately be represented.
The creep coefficient φt applied in RF-CONCRETE Members is to be considered an effective creep

coefficient. For calculations in the ultimate limit state, this means that the ratio of creep-producing and
www.dlubal.com 49
acting load must be taken into account. Therefore, the creep coefficients determined according to
chapter 2.2.6 must be adjusted as shown in the following equation.
creepproducing load
j e
t j t

acting load
Shrinkage
The question arises how distortions of the structural component relevant for the calculation are caused.
The reason for this is the concrete's restrained reduction due to reinforcement. If the boundary
conditions of common "slender" components with uniformly distributed shrinkage strain are assumed,
component curvatures will occur only for asymmetric reinforcement distribution.
Therefore, the shrinkage can be represented by a pre-strain of concrete or steel. In detail, this means
that the steel's "free strain" is restrained by a positive pre-strain of concrete. In the same way, it would
be possible to model the component with a negative pre-strain of steel so that the concrete restrains the
free strain of the pre-strained steel. Both variants show identical stress distributions while taking into
account the respective pre-strain, but they differ significantly on the strain level: If steel is pre-strained, it
is immediately evident from the strain's condition where zones of tension and compression due to
shrinkage occur. If concrete is pre-strained, it is possible to make statements from the strain's condition
concerning the concrete's actual reduction.
As the determination of deformations is most important for the calculation, it is of no interest whether the
modeling in the stiffness determination is carried out by a positive pre-strain of concrete or a negative
pre-strain of reinforcement.
RF-CONCRETE Members takes shrinkage strain by negative pre-strain of the reinforcing steel into
account.
2.4.7 Ultimate Limit State
Nonlinear analyses in the ultimate limit state serve to determine the limit of failure (mechanism)
realistically. However, the design involves the following difficulty: Realistic estimations require realistic
initial and computational parameters.
The material properties are not deterministic parameters. In contrast to the discrete cross-section design
where the concept of "local defects" is always applied, mean material properties have to be used for
the determination of deformations and internal forces.
Another aspect when determining the behavior of structural components realistically is the
consideration of the concrete's effectiveness for tension between cracks (Tension Stiffening, see chapter
2.4.3 ). The influence of creep and shrinkage is especially significant for compression elements.
According to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.7, we have to use nonlinear methods leading to a realistic
stiffness and considering uncertainties concerning failing. Design methods that are valid in the
governing application areas may be used. An appropriate nonlinear method for determining internal
forces including cross-section design is the approach with average values of material properties and
the application of a global partial safety factor γr described both in the National Annex for Germany
to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.7 as well as the German DIN standard 1045-1, clause 8.5. This approach
is described in the following as the method according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.7.
According to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.7 (5), it is possible to use the approach as per EN 1992-1-1,
clause 5.8.6 for structural components where effects according to the second-order analysis may not
be neglected.
RF-CONCRETE Members provides both nonlinear methods of calculation (cf. Figure 4.4 ).
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2.4.7.1 Material Properties
Method according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.7

The design according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.7 is based on mean material properties that have
been calibrated to realize a global safety factor. The result is a reduced concrete compressive strength
that represents a controversial subject due to the distortion of the average characteristic curve for
concrete.
Calculational mean values of material strengths
Stress-strain curve for steel according to EN 1992-1-1, Figure NA.3.8.1
fyR = 1.1 ⋅ fyk
ftR = 1.08 ⋅ fyR Reinforced steel high ductility
ftR = 1.05 ⋅ fyR Reinforced steel normal ductility
Es = 200 000 N/mm2 Modulus of elasticity for steel
Stress-strain curve for concrete according to EN 1992-1-1, Figure 3.2
fcR = 0.85 ⋅ α ⋅ fck
Ecm mean modulus of elasticity for concrete (secant)
The following relation between the global safety factor R and the mean material strengths applies:
Concrete (γc = 1.5) : 1.5 ⋅ 0.85 = 1.275 ∼ γR = 1.3

Reinforcing steel (γs = 1.15) : 1.15 ⋅ 1.1 = 1.265 ∼ γR = 1.3
Figure 2.29 shows how the reduced concrete compressive stress fcR is represented with the
calculational mean values in comparison with the concrete's stress-strain diagram. The strong distortion
of the characteristic curve for concrete is clearly recognizable. It results in an overestimation of strains,
particularly in highly utilized areas, thus leading to overestimated curvatures.
Figure 2.29 Stress-strain relation for internal forces and deformation analysis
Looking at the concrete's characteristic values, we can see the following: Though the theory is based
on reduced stresses (0.85 ⋅ α ⋅ fck), according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 3.1.5, the modulus of elasticity
corresponds to the mean value.
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Method according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.8.6

Clause 5.8.6 of the Eurocode standard describes the nonlinear calculation of structural components
prone to instability risks. According to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.8.6 (3), we need to define the
stress-strain curves on the basis of design values.
Design values of the material strengths for the calculation of internal forces and
deformations, as well as for design on cross-section level
Stress-strain curve for steel according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 3.2.7

fyd = fyk / γs
ftd = k ⋅ fyk / γs
Esm = mean modulus of elasticity for steel (200 000 N/mm2)
Stress-strain curve for concrete according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 3.1.5
fcm = fcd = α ⋅ fck / γc
Ec = Ecd = Ecm / γcE
2.4.7.2 Safety Design
Method according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.7

According to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.7, we have to design the safety of nonlinear calculations by
means of a global safety factor γR. We can do this with a "trick", though it is disputed: modifying the
mean stiffnesses of structural components (fcR, fyR, etc.). The calculational steel stress has been
increased and the calculational concrete stress has been reduced, which allows for a return to the
global safety factor γR = 1.3 (or 1.1 for extraordinary action combinations).
To ensure sufficient bearing capacity, the following conditions are required:

R
E d Rd f cR f yR f tR

g R
where
Ed : design value of governing action combination

Rd : design value of load-bearing capacity
γR : uniform partial safety factor on side of ultimate load
RF-CONCRETE Members calculates with a γR-fold action. It can be applied in load steps,
corresponding to an incremental calculation of the ultimate load.
The design is fulfilled when the γR-fold action is higher than the ultimate load. This corresponds to a
conversion of the equation above.
g R E d R d R
f cR f yR f tR

This also takes account of the aspect for determining the reduction of imposed internal forces.
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Advantages and disadvantages of the method
The most important advantage of this approach is obvious: Only one material rule is used for the entire
calculation. This leads to easier handling as well as economy of time when calculating, because the
determination of internal forces and the design are performed in one go.
The disadvantage is only explicitly visible when we assume that the terms
R
R
f cR f yR f tR
f cR f yR f tR

g R
g
R g R g R

are compatible. In nonlinear calculations, of course, this compatibility is not given without restrictions.
An example, which shows that such an approach can be very much on the unsafe side, is the
consideration of imposed internal forces. The use of material properties divided by γR leads to strongly
reduced stiffnesses resulting in a strong reduction of the imposed internal forces. However, this
representation is quite useful to illustrate the problem of the reduced elastic modulus for steel.
The direct reduction of the stiffnesses is described in detail by Quast [10] and is evaluated critically
with regard to slender compression elements.
To clarify the correlations, we simplify the conditions and assume a horizontal branch of the
characteristic curve for reinforcing steel (fyd = ftd). This results in the reduced design resistance Rd for:

1
e z

R 1

Rd s R
a y dA where a

z
g g

R R

y

cR
a f e f cR0f yR sR
e f yR
1
Rd s s

dA

g R
cR
cR
f cR s e f cR f yR s sR
e
a g
f yR
Rd 0 dA
R g R g R g R g R
If we set σsR = Es ⋅ ε, the result is the following:
cR
f cR s e f cR f yR
a g
Es f yR
Rd 0 e dA
R g R g R g R g R
For a practical determination of internal forces according to the linear static analysis without imposed
internal forces, it is absolutely legitimate to calculate with the reduced stiffnesses. In this case, the
diagram of internal forces is affected by the relation of the stiffnesses from different areas to each other
anyway.
However, this concept proves to be problematic when designing slender compression elements
according to the second-order analysis. The deformations are overestimated because of the reduced
stiffness in the system. This results in an overestimation of internal forces for calculations according to
the second-order analysis.
Slender compression elements generally fail when the yield strain in the reinforcement is reached.
Hence, it becomes obvious that deformations are overestimated due to the reduced modulus of
elasticity and the resulting larger curvatures when the yielding starts. This leads to a smaller allowable
column load, or the reinforcement must be increased accordingly. Quast [10] sees no reason for
that.
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Method according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.8.6

According to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.8.6 (3), it is possible to directly perform the design for sufficient
structural safety on the basis of design values (fcd, fyd, ...) of the material properties. In accordance with
clause (3), the stress-strain curves defined on the basis of design values must also be used for the
determination of internal forces and deformations. The modulus of elasticity Ecd to be applied must be
calculated with the safety factor γCE (Ecd = Ecm / γCE).
Note concerning German NAD DIN EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.8.6
According to the National Annex for Germany EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.8.6 (NDP 5.8.6 (3)), the
internal forces and deformations may be determined by means of average material properties (fcm,
fctm, ...). However, the design for the ultimate load capacity in the governing sections must be
performed with the design values (fcd, fyd, ...) of the material properties.
The problem with this approach is that it is impossible for some parts in statically indeterminate systems
to reach a convergence of results: The internal forces calculated with the mean values of the material
properties cannot be taken over in the design with the design values to be applied. Increasing the
reinforcement results in an increase of stiffness of the respective parts and areas, which again requires
an increase of reinforcement in the subsequent iteration step. It is also important to note that a
utilization of the plastic resources in the ultimate limit state is hardly possible, as the calculational
design moment MEd (design values for strengths of materials) will not reach the value of the yield
moment My (mean material properties).
RF-CONCRETE Members performs the safety design according to the standard by contrasting the
provided reinforcement with the required reinforcement that is determined for the design values of the
material properties. This must always be observed when manually correcting the reinforcement
(keyword: "increase in stiffness").
2.4.8 Serviceability Limit State
With EN 1992-1-1, more detailed designs for the serviceability limit state have found their way into
engineering offices.
The serviceability limit state is divided into three groups:
Limitation of stresses (EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.2)

Limitation of crack widths (EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.3)
Limitation of deformations (EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.4)
Hereafter, only the limitation of deformations is described, also taking the influence of creep and
shrinkage into account.
The reason for the more detailed analysis of deformations can be found again in the nonlinear
behavior of reinforced concrete as a composite material. As a result of crack formation, the stiffness is
reduced significantly in particular areas compared to the pure state I (uncracked sections). If the
cracking is not taken into account, occurring deformations will be underestimated. By considering
creep and shrinkage, the deformation may be three to eight times larger, depending on the stress state
and boundary conditions.
The governing curvatures are determined as basis for deformations. It is important not to forget the
concrete's effectiveness for tension between the cracks, otherwise unrealistic results are to be expected.
54 www.dlubal.com
A correct interpretation of results from nonlinear calculations requires knowledge of the most important
factors. Therefore, we compare the most important parameters that affect the stiffnesses in uncracked
sections (state I) and cracked sections (state II) in the table below:
Influencing value State I (uncracked) State II (cracked)
Creep The stiffness is mainly controlled Minor influence

(here as reduction of by concrete.
elastic modulus for Thus, a reduced modulus of
concrete) elasticity leads to a considerable
reduction of stiffness.
Reinforcement Minor influence The stiffness in state II is mainly

ratio (see Creep for reasons) controlled by the reinforcement.
The influence is therefore
enormous.
Axial force Influence hardly given A tensile force reduces the

(In case of simplified stiffness significantly.
linear-elastic analyses, there is This must be considered when
no influence at all.) modeling the shrinkage, as it
leads to tension stresses in the
concrete.
Table 2.5 Influence values and their impact in uncracked and cracked state
Material properties
Generally, the mean material properties are used to calculate the deformation. The effectiveness of
concrete on tension between cracks (Tension Stiffening) must also be taken into account by
appropriate approaches (see chapter 2.4.3 ) because otherwise no realistic deformation analysis is
possible.
The mean material properties according to DIN 1045-1 and EN 1992-1-1 for determining the
deformations do not differ from each other (or only marginally).
Calculational mean values of material strengths
-- Stress-strain curve for steel according to EN 1992-1-1, Figure NA.3.8.1
fy = fyk
ft = fyk for serviceability considerations
Esm = 200 000 N/mm2 mean modulus of elasticity for steel
-- Stress-strain curve for concrete according to EN 1992-1-1, 3.1.5 and 5.7
fcm mean concrete compressive strength

Ecm mean modulus of elasticity for concrete (secant)
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2.4.9 Convergence
How fast and safely a nonlinear calculation converges depends on a variety of factors and can be
specified for the general case only as a tendency.
Main starting point of the convergence evaluation is the method that is used. We know that methods
based on tangential improvements (tangential stiffness matrix) often converge faster (square
convergence in area of searched solution) than methods that determine an iterative improvement by
means of secant stiffnesses. However, secant methods are generally numerically more stable,
especially in the area of very flat gradients near the limit of failure (tangential stiffness approaches
zero). Of course, this cannot be generalized because the convergence is affected by incremental load
application, various iteration methods (Newton-Raphson, Riks/Wempner/Wessels, etc.), and other
parameters.
Hereafter, the convergence behavior of the used algorithm is presented briefly. RF-CONCRETE
Members performs the actual iteration of the state of strain on the cross-section level. This means that
based on a diagram of internal forces within one iteration cycle, more and more new and current
strain-stress conditions are calculated. The convergence is reached when a state of equilibrium is
established, meaning the diagram of internal forces in two successive iteration steps remains within a
given threshold.
This method alone is very stable in case of minor stiffness fluctuations in statically indeterminate
frameworks. However, problems occur in case of abrupt changes or major changes in stiffness. The
calculation may oscillate. To avoid this non-convergence, a damped stiffness reduction has been
implemented in the calculation. The change between the stiffnesses of two iteration steps will be
damped according to user specifications. The calculation thereby slows down a little, but is numerically
more stable. Finally, we know that a damping for statically determinate systems makes no sense.
Hence, the two controllable termination criteria of nonlinear calculations are the following:
e
1g 1g
i
tolerance 1

1 i 1

γ is an indicator for the ratio of ultimate moment to acting moment. This way, the termination criterion
ε1 takes into account the change of internal forces.
e 2
EI i EI i 2
2
EI i
2 tolerance 2
This design criterion controls the stiffness difference of two successive iteration steps on the nodes.
In addition, the deformation difference between two iterations is checked:
e tolerance 3
u i u i 1

3
fixed
The maximum deformation difference is set fixed to the value ≤ 0.1 mm.
If the nonlinear calculation does not converge, some possibilities are offered in the Settings for
Nonlinear Calculation dialog box (see Figure 2.30 ) to improve the convergence behavior.
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Figure 2.30 Settings for Nonlinear Calculation dialog box, Iteration Parameters tab
Increasing the number of iterations

The iteration process strongly depends on cross-section shape, structural system, and loading. This may
lead to a different convergence behavior. Generally, structural components that are highly stressed by
compression converge a bit more slowly. As the current deviations ε1 and ε2 are displayed
permanently during calculation, you can easily decide if increasing the number of iterations (slow but
continuous convergence) makes sense.
Increasing the number of load increments, trilinear if necessary

In the first load step, the linear-elastic stiffness is used as initial value. Calculating with only one load
step in the first iteration cycle may result in a very large difference in stiffness, which interferes with the
convergence. In this case, it can be practical to apply the load gradually.
Reduction of damping factor

By a specific reduction of stiffness changes between two iteration steps, it is possible to counteract the
calculation's oscillation. In two successive iteration steps, the program determines the difference in
stiffness on one node. The damping factor represents the part of the stiffness difference that is

considered for the new stiffness applied in the subsequent iteration step:
E I i
damped E I i 1 1 damping factor E I i damping factor
This means: The higher the damping factor, the smaller the damping's influence. If the factor is 1, the
damping does not affect the iterative calculation.
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3 Input Data RF-CONCRETE Members - User Manual
3 Input Data
When you start the add-on module, a new window appears. On the left, a navigator that manages the
available module windows is displayed. The drop-down list above the navigator contains the design
cases (see chapter 8.1 ).
The design-relevant data is defined in several input windows. When you open RF-CONCRETE
Members for the first time, the following parameters are imported automatically:
Load cases, load combinations, and result combinations

Materials
Members and sets of members
Cross-sections
Internal forces (in background, if calculated)
To select a window, click the corresponding entry in the navigator. To go to the previous or the next
module window, use the buttons shown on the left. You can also use the function keys to select the next
[F2] or previous [F3] window.
To save the entered data, click [OK]. You will exit RF-CONCRETE Members and return to the main
program. To exit the add-on module without saving the data, click [Cancel].
3.1 General Data

In window 1.1 General Data, you specify the design standard and the actions. The tabs manage the
load cases, load combinations, and result combinations for the designs in the ultimate and the
serviceability limit state, as well as for the fire resistance design.
Figure 3.1 Window 1.1 General Data
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Design Acc. to Standard / NA
Standard
Figure 3.2 Available standards
You have to specify the standard according to which you want to perform the reinforced concrete
design. Different standards are available for selection in the list. You can purchase each standard
separately.
Standards marked in red are no longer valid, but can, for example, be used for recalculations of
existing structural buildings. You can hide the "old" standards by using the [Filter] button.
National Annex
For the design according to Eurocode (EN 1992-1-1:2004/A1:2014), you have to specify the
National Annex whose parameters apply to the checks.
Figure 3.3 National Annexes for EN 1992-1-1
Click the button to view the default parameters (see Figure 3.4 ).
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Figure 3.4 Parameters of National Annex dialog box
In this dialog box, you can find all design-relevant coefficients specified in the National Annexes. They
are listed by the Eurocode's clause numbers.
If other specifications apply to partial safety factors, reduction factors, angles of concrete compression
strut, etc., it is possible to adjust these parameters: First, click the button to create a copy of the
current National Annex. In this user-defined annex, you can specify the parameters individually.
Comment
Figure 3.5 User-defined comment
In this input field, you can enter user-defined notes describing the current design case, for example.
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Figure 3.6 Window 1.1 General Data, Ultimate Limit State tab
Existing Load Cases / Combinations

This column lists all load cases, load combinations, and result combinations that have been defined in
RFEM.
To transfer selected entries to the Selected for Design list on the right, click the button. You can also
double-click the items. To transfer the entire list, click .
As common for Windows applications, selecting several load cases is possible by clicking them one by
one while holding down the [Ctrl] key. This way, you can transfer several load cases at once.
Load case numbers marked in red like LC 9 in Figure 3.6 cannot be designed: It indicates a load
case without load data or a load case containing imperfections. A warning appears if you try to
transfer it.
Below the list, various filter options are available. They help you to assign the entries sorted by load
case, combination, or action category. The buttons have the following functions:
Selects all load cases in the list.
Inverts the selection of load cases.
Table 3.1 Buttons in Existing Load Cases / Combinations column
Selected for Design

This column lists the load cases, load combinations, and result combinations that have been selected
for design. To remove selected items from the list, click or double-click the entries. To empty the
entire list, click .
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You can assign the load cases, load and result combinations to the following design situations:
Persistent and Transient

Accidental
This classification controls the partial safety factors γc and γs according to EN 1992-1-1, Table 2.1
(see Figure 3.4 and Figure 3.37 ).
To change the design situation, use the list, which you can access by clicking the button at the end of
the text box.
Figure 3.7 Assigning the design situation
For a multiple selection, press the [Ctrl] button and click the corresponding entries. This way, you can
change several entries at once.
If more than 16 load combinations are available for a design situation, analyzing an enveloping max/
min result combination is faster than the analysis of all contained load cases and load combinations.
Result combination The reason is that a design is performed on every x-location for 16 extreme values for result
combinations. If less than 16 different load combinations per design situation are available for design,
the load combinations should be selected individually for the design. However, when analyzing a
result combination, it is difficult to discern the influence of the included actions.
Options
Figure 3.8 Options for nonlinear calculation
Nonlinear calculation
A license of the add-on module RF-CONCRETE NL is required for the nonlinear design method. The
program performs a physical and geometrical nonlinear calculation. The internal forces are generally
determined according to the second-order analysis. The nonlinear analysis for the ultimate limit state is
The nonlinear design method is based on the assumption of an interaction between model and action-
effects, requiring a clear distribution of internal forces. Therefore, only load cases and load
combinations can be analyzed, but not result combinations (RC): In a result combination, there is a
maximum and a minimum value per x-location available for each internal force.
To open the Settings for Nonlinear Calculation dialog box, use the button. This dialog box consists
of three tabs. They are described in chapter 4.2 .
Nonlinear analyses are possible for both the ultimate limit state and the serviceability limit state.
Creep /Shrinkage
In the nonlinear calculation, it is possible to take the influence of creep and shrinkage into account. For
more information, see chapter 2.2.6 .
If the check box is selected, you can define the creep coefficient φ (t, t0) and shrinkage strain ε (t, ts) in
window 1.3 Cross-Sections (see Figure 3.19 ).
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The serviceability limit state design depends on the results of the ultimate limit state design
(reinforcement). It is not possible to perform the serviceability limit state design alone.
Figure 3.9 Window 1.1 General Data, Serviceability Limit State tab

This window section lists all load cases, load and result combinations defined in RFEM.
Normally, the actions and partial safety factors relevant for the serviceability limit state (SLS) design
are different from the ones considered for the ultimate limit state. The corresponding combinations can
be created in RFEM.
Selected for Design

You can add or remove load cases, as well as load and result combinations as described in chapter
3.1.1 .
For EN 1992-1-1, it is possible to assign different limit values for deflection to the individual load cases,
load and result combinations. The following design situations are available:
Characteristic with direct load

Characteristic with imposed deformation
Frequent
Quasi-permanent
To change the design situation, use the list that you can access by clicking the button at the end of
the text box.
Figure 3.10 Assigning the design situation
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With the [Details] button you can access the setting options for the individual design situations (see
chapter 4.1.2 ).
Options
nonlinear analysis for the serviceability limit state is described in chapter 2.4.8 .
Nonlinear analyses performed according to EN 1992-1-1 or DIN 1045-1 can only be carried out for
load cases and load combinations, but not for result combinations.
To open the Settings for Nonlinear Calculation dialog box, use the button. This dialog box consists
of three tabs. They are described in chapter 4.2 .
Nonlinear analyses are possible for both the ultimate limit state and the serviceability limit state.
Creep/Shrinkage
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3.1.3 Details
This tab appears when load cases or combinations are selected for the serviceability limit state design,
and the analysis is performed according to EN 1992-1-1. There is no need to display this tab for
DIN 1045-1 because the factor kt is specified as 0.4 in Eq. (136).
Figure 3.12 Window 1.1 General Data, Details tab
In the crack width design, the program calculates the differences in the mean strains of concrete and
reinforcing steel (see chapter 2.2.4 ). According to EN 1992-1-1, 7.3.4 (2), Eq. (7.9), the load
duration factor kt must be specified for this.
Load Case / Combination Description

This column lists all load cases, load combinations, and result combinations that have been selected for
design in the Serviceability Limit State tab. For load and result combinations, the included load cases
are shown, too.
Permanent load
This column indicates the load cases to be applied as permanent loads. When selecting an entry, the
corresponding factor kt is automatically set to 0.4 in column C.
Factor kt
The load duration factor kt is used to consider the duration of the load. The factor kt is 0.4 for long-term
load actions and 0.6 for short-term actions.
For load and result combinations, the mean is taken from the kt values of the load cases contained in
the CO or RC.
i
i 1 g LC k ti
LC
n

kt
i
i 1 g LC
n
Equation 3.1 Load duration factor kt
Factor β
This column is displayed if the analysis of Deflection ul,z is set in window 1.6 (see Figure 3.38 ). The
factor β is 1.0 for short-term loading and 0.5 for long-term loading.
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3.1.4 Fire Resistance
Figure 3.13 Window 1.1 General Data, Fire Resistance tab

This window section lists all load cases, load and result combinations defined in RFEM.
Normally, the actions and partial safety factors relevant for the fire resistance designs are different
from the ones considered for the ultimate limit state. The corresponding combinations can be created in
RFEM.
Selected for Design

You can add or remove load cases, as well as load and result combinations for the fire protection
design as described in chapter 3.1.1 .
Options
nonlinear design method is described in chapter 2.4 .
To open the Settings for Nonlinear Calculation dialog box, use the [Settings] button. This dialog box
consists of three tabs. They are described in chapter 4.2 .
Creep/Shrinkage
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Settings
The Reduction factor acc. to 2.4.2 (2) option allows for a simplified transfer of loadings from the
design for normal temperature and to reduce these actions by the reduction factor ηfi.
The reduction factor ηfi is determined as per the equations according to EN 1992-1-2, 2.4.2 (3). As a
simplification, the recommended value ηfi = 0.7 can be used.
3.2 Materials
The window is divided into two parts. The upper section lists the concrete classes and steel grades
relevant for the design. All materials of the 'concrete' category used for members in RFEM are preset.
In the Material Properties section, the properties of the current material, that is the material whose table
row is selected in the upper section, are shown.
Figure 3.15 Window 1.2 Materials
Column A lists the materials relevant for the design of the members. Materials that are not allowed are
highlighted in red, modified materials in blue.
Chapter 4.3 of the RFEM manual describes the material properties used for the determination of the
internal forces. The design-relevant material properties are also stored in the global material library.
The values are preset for the Concrete Strength Class and for Reinforcing Steel.
To adjust the units and decimal places of the characteristic values and stresses, select Settings
Units and Decimal Places in the menu (see chapter 8.3 ).
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Material description
Concrete Strength Class
The materials used in RFEM are already preset.
The strength class can be changed at any time: Click the material in column A to select the field. Then,
click the button, or press the [F7] function key to open the list of strength classes. The list contains
only strength classes in accordance with the design concept of the selected standard.
After importing a material, the Material Properties are updated in the section below.
The material properties are generally not editable in RF-CONCRETE Members.
Reinforcing Steel
In this column, the program presets a steel grade in accordance with the design concept of the
selected standard.
As with the concrete strength class, you can select a different reinforcing steel from the list: Click the
material in column B to select the field. Then, click the button or press the [F7] key to open the list of
reinforcing steels. As with the concrete strength classes, the list contains only steel grades that are
relevant for the selected standard.
After importing a material, the Material Properties are updated in the section below.
Material library
Many materials are stored in a database. To open the library, select the menu item
Edit Import Material from Library

or use the button shown on the left. You can find the library buttons below columns A and B.
Figure 3.16 Material Library dialog box
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In the Filter section, the materials relevant to the standard are already preset, thus excluding all other
categories or standards. You can select the desired concrete strength class or steel grade from the
Material to Select list; then you can check the properties in the section below.
Click [OK] or press Enter to import the selected material into window 1.2 of RF-CONCRETE Members.
Chapter 4.3 of the RFEM manual describes how to filter, add, or reorganize materials.
3.3 Cross-Sections
This window lists the cross-sections used for the design. In addition, you can make specifications for
optimization.
Figure 3.17 Window 1.3 Cross-Sections
Cross-Section Description
The cross-sections defined in RFEM are preset along with the assigned material numbers.
To modify a cross-section, click the entry in column B to activate the field. Then, use the [Cross-Section
Library] button, click in the text box, or press the [F7] key to open the cross-section table of the
current input field (see Figure 3.18 ).
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A dialog box opens where you can select a different cross-section or a different cross-section table. The
following Solid Cross-Sections are enabled for the design in RF-CONCRETE Members:
Rectangle
Floor beam (symmetric, unsymmetric, or conic)
Rotated floor beam (symmetric or unsymmetric)
I-shape (symmetric, unsymmetric, or conic)
Circle
Ring
Hollow rectangle (Z-symmetric)
Conic shape (symmetric)
U-section (symmetric)
Selecting cross-sections from the library is described in chapter 4.13 of the RFEM manual.
Figure 3.18 Parametric solid cross-sections of rectangular shape in cross-section library
You can also enter the new cross-section description directly into the text box. If the entry is already
listed in the database, RF-CONCRETE Members will import the properties.
A modified cross-section is highlighted in blue.
If the cross-sections in RF-CONCRETE Members are different from the ones used in RFEM, both are
displayed in the graphic to the right of the table. The designs will be performed for the cross-section
selected in RF-CONCRETE Members, using the internal forces from RFEM.
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Optimize
Each allowable cross-section can run through an optimization process. For the internal forces
determined in RFEM, the program finds the cross-section that meets the specifications of the
Optimization Parameters dialog box with the least possible dimensions (see Figure 8.5 ).
To optimize a certain cross-section, select its check box in column C. Recommendations for optimizing
cross-sections can be found in chapter 8.2 .
Notes
This column shows remarks in the form of footnotes. They are explained in the status bar.
Creep Coefficient / Shrinkage Strain

Column E shows the values of the creep coefficients φ (t,t0) and shrinkage strains ε (t,ts). The values are
determined from preset parameters. They can be adjusted with the button that appears after clicking
into the text box. A new dialog box opens.
Figure 3.19 Settings for Creep and Shrinkage dialog box
The Counting Form for the creep coefficient and the shrinkage strain is possible in two ways:
Age : The values are calculated by the program using parameters.

Defined : The values must be specified directly.
At the end of the table, the Result determined from the parameters is displayed for the creep coefficient
φ (t,t0) and the shrinkage strain ε (t,ts). The determination of the creep coefficient and shrinkage strain is
In the Set Settings for dialog section, you can define whether the specifications apply to a particular
cross-section, all cross-sections, or selected cross-sections.
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Info About Cross-Section

The Info About Cross-Section dialog box provides information on the cross-section's properties.
Figure 3.20 Info About Cross-Section dialog box
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3.4 Ribs
The ribs defined in RFEM are preset. Ribs represent a special type of member consisting of a beam and
an effective plate cross-section (see RFEM manual, chapter 4.18). RF-CONCRETE Members imports
the rib internal forces from RFEM and uses them for the design.
Figure 3.21 Window 1.4 Ribs
You can adjust the effective widths beff in columns D and F. A recalculation in RFEM is not required
because the system stiffness remains unchanged. The calculation of the cross-section properties and the
integration of the rib internal forces are carried out automatically for each change of the effective
widths.
Member No.
This column shows the numbers of the members defined as Rib member type in RFEM.
Cross-Section No. Start / End

Columns A and B show the cross-section numbers (see chapter 3.3 ). If different numbers are
displayed, the member is a tapered member.
Effective Width beff

Columns D and F indicate the effective widths for the left and the right side of the member. The values
for b1 and b2 taken from the New Rib dialog box in RFEM (see RFEM manual, chapter 4.18) are
preset here. The rib internal forces are determined based on the integration widths for the pro rata
internal forces in surfaces.
The effective width controls the cross-section design in the form of an equivalent cross-section.
Therefore, you can adjust the values for beff. Reduced effective widths result in reduced member
internal forces, which affect the design in RF-CONCRETE Members. Increasing the integration widths is
not allowed.
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The effective widths can be modified directly. Alternatively, it is possible to adjust the widths with the
button that opens a dialog box managing the parameters of the equivalent cross-section called
Unsymmetric Floor Beam. When entering the widths bl and br, follow the sketch of the cross-section.
To check the effective widths, select the Show rib effective widths for determination of internal forces
check box. The table will be extended by two additional columns.
Figure 3.22 Window 1.4 Ribs
By selecting the check box, the [Edit Rib] button becomes accessible. It enables you to adjust the rib
parameters of RFEM, thus affecting the system stiffness. However, this also means that the internal
forces must be recalculated.
In the cross-section graphic below the table, changes are represented dynamically. The graphic shows
the equivalent cross-section used for the design.
Notes
If the rib leads to problems in the design, a corresponding note appears in this column.
The following items must be considered for a correct design of ribs:
The rib's local z-axis must be parallel to the local z-axis of the surface.
The rib's local z-axis must be orthogonal to the xy-plane of the surface.
The surface type of the connected surface must be Plane.
The cross-section type of the rib member must be a Rectangle.
When sets of members are used, a uniform rib type must be defined for the entire set of members.
The material of the rib must be identical to the material of the surface.
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3.5 Supports
In this module window, you can define the support conditions for the members. The support nodes of
horizontal members taken from RFEM are preset. The program recognizes whether the support is
located at the end of a member or between two members (continuous beam).
Support widths greater than zero affect the design (redistribution of moments, moment reduction,
reduction of shear force) and the reinforcement proposal (length of anchorage). However, this only
applies to members in horizontal or slightly inclined position, not to columns!
Figure 3.23 Window 1.5 Supports
Node No.
This column lists the supported nodes of all members in a horizontal position or a position that is
inclined up to 15°. Use the button in this column to select additional nodes graphically in the RFEM
work window.
Support Width b
In this column, the widths of the supports must be defined. This way, you can determine, for example, a
wall's wide bearing area that is represented as singular support in the RFEM model.
Direct Support
This column controls the support type of the beam. If there is an adjoining beam introducing its load to
another beam, the support is an indirect support. In this case, you have to clear the check box.
The specifications affect the lengths of anchorage and the shear force design.
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Monolithic Connection
In column D, you can specify whether there is a flexurally rigid connection with the support, or a rotary
support allowing for a reduction of the supporting moment.
End Support
The geometrical conditions for end supports are different than the ones for intermediate supports, in
order to determine the design moments and anchorage lengths (see graphic on the right in window).
M Ratio δ
For continuous structural components, you can define the ratio δ of redistributed moment and
elastically determined initial moment in column F. You can access the column as soon as the option
Consideration of limited moment redistribution below the graphic is selected.
The δ-values can be determined according to a standard, for example EN 1992-1-1, 5.5 (4).
Comment
Here, you can enter a text describing the selected support conditions.
Moment redistribution / Shear force design

Below the graphic, you can find four check boxes whose settings affect the required reinforcement.
These settings are generally effective for the current design case (see chapter 8.1 ).
Consideration of limited moment redistribution of the supporting moments
For continuous beams, it is possible to apply the linear-elastic methods with limited redistribution of the
supporting moments. The resulting distribution of internal forces must be at equilibrium with the acting
loads. In standards such as EN 1992-1-1, 5.5 (4), the moment ratios δ that must be observed in order
to ensure the ability for rotation in critical areas without special designs are described.
RF-CONCRETE Members determines the limit value and compares it with the value specified in column
F. Then, the higher value is used for the redistribution.
Reduction of the moments or dimensioning for the moments at the face of a

monolithic support
Optionally, RF-CONCRETE Members performs a moment reduction according to, for example,
EN 1992-1-1, 5.3.2.2, if all of the following requirements are met:
No end support
Support width > 0
Support is restrained in Z-direction
Support force acts positive in Z
Member in horizontal position or with max. inclination of 15°
Negative moment distribution in entire support zone
The decision whether to reduce the moment or to apply the moment at the face of the support depends
on the support's definition in column D: The moment at the face of the support is used for a monolithic
connection; the supporting moment is reduced for a support with no rotational restraint.
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Shear force design at the support face
A shear force design is possible for the moment at the face of the support. In case of a direct support, it
is possible to reduce the design value of shear force according to EN 1992-1-1, 6.2.1 (8).
For result combinations, the shear force design is always carried out on the support's edge because a
"uniformly distributed load" cannot be presumed for an envelope.
Reduction of shear forces with concentrated loads near support
Use this check box to control whether the shear force component of concentrated loads close to the
support is considered according to EN 1992-1-1, 6.2.2 (6) or 6.2.3 (8). A reduction is only carried
out for load cases and load combinations, not for result combinations.
3.6 Reinforcement
This module window consists of several tabs that manage the settings for the reinforcement. As the
members to be designed often require different specifications, it is possible to define what are known
as "reinforcement groups" in each design case (RF-CONCRETE Members case): Each reinforcement
group contains the reinforcement's parameters that apply to particular members or sets of members.
Reinforcement Group
Figure 3.24 Window 1.6 Reinforcement with two reinforcement groups
Click the [New] button to create a new reinforcement group. The button is accessible if the All check
box in the Applied to section is deactivated so that the members can be assigned clearly.
The number of the reinforcement group is defined automatically; it cannot be changed. A user-defined
Description helps you to keep track of all reinforcement groups available in the current design case.
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With the [Delete] button, you can remove the current reinforcement group from the design case without
any further warning. As a result, members that were included in that reinforcement group will not be
designed. To design them, they must be reassigned to a new or existing reinforcement group.
To select the desired reinforcement group, use the No. list, or click the entry in the navigator.
Applied to members/sets of members

In this dialog section, you can specify the members and sets of members the parameters of the current
reinforcement group apply to. All members and All sets of members are preset. If both check boxes are
selected, you cannot create another reinforcement group because it is not possible to design a member
using different rules (this is only possible by using "design cases", see chapter 8.1 ). To use
reinforcement groups, you have to clear the All check box.
In the input fields, enter the numbers of the members and sets of members the reinforcement parameters
of the tabs below apply to. You can also use the button to select them graphically in the RFEM
work window. Only numbers of members and sets of members that have not yet been assigned to
other reinforcement groups can be entered into the fields.
Members contained in continuous members are automatically deactivated for the design.
Cross-Section
The cross-section graphic shows how the data entered in the various tabs affects the cross-section.
Changes in the reinforcement specifications are carried out dynamically.
The relevant cross-section can be set in the list above the graphic.
Settings
With the Design the provided reinforcement option, RF-CONCRETE Members takes the reinforcement
specifications to calculate a rebar reinforcement. If you clear this check box, some input fields in the
tabs of this module window will be locked. Then, RF-CONCRETE Members will determine only the
required reinforcement areas.
If you have set the design for the serviceability limit state or for fire resistance in window 1.1 General
Data, it is not possible to prevent the calculation of the provided reinforcement: The SLS designs are
based on an available bar reinforcement because crack widths, crack spacings, etc. can only be
determined on the basis of rebar diameters and rebar spacings. The same applies to the design
according to the nonlinear method.
Select the Use saved reinforcement results check box to apply a reinforcement stored in the
user-defined library of reinforcement templates. Reinforcement templates can be defined and saved in
module window 3.1 (see chapter 5.2.1 ). The check box will also be enabled.
The relevant reinforcement template can be selected in the list. Use the button to access the
database of reinforcement templates where you can choose among the stored templates (see Figure
3.25 ).
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Figure 3.25 User Database of Reinforcement Templates
User-defined reinforcement templates allow for keeping the reinforcing bars and using them for design
even if the input data is changed.
The reinforcement stored in the reinforcement template is not dynamic, which means that the
reinforcements' position and length are fixed and assigned to a particular member. If the original
length of a member changes in RFEM, it is not adjusted in the reinforcement template.
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3.6.1 Longitudinal Reinforcement
In this tab, you can enter the specifications for the longitudinal reinforcement.
Figure 3.26 Window 1.6 Reinforcement, Longitudinal Reinforcement tab
Reinforcing Steel
The list of possible diameters provides commonly used options for reinforcing bars. You can set
different diameters for the provided reinforcement.
Use the [Edit] button to adjust the list of available rebar diameters.
Figure 3.27 Edit List of Possible Diameters dialog box
You can modify, remove, or add diameters in the input line.
Reinforcement Layers
RF-CONCRETE Members also considers multi-layered arrangements of rebars for the provided
reinforcement. Use the list to specify the Max. number of layers.
The Minimum spacing of rebars a for the first layer and, if necessary, b for additional layers can be
defined in the two input fields.
These structural specifications are considered for the provided reinforcement: They affect the number of
possible rebars of each layer and the lever arm of internal forces.
If several reinforcement layers are arranged, a curtailment of the reinforcement is not possible.
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Anchorage Type
Both lists in this dialog section provide a variety of anchorage possibilities. The graphic to the right is
dynamic, which means that modified settings are displayed immediately in the graphic.
Anchorage and Steel surface (solely ribbed for ACI 318 and EN 1992) affect the required length of
anchorage.
Curtailment Type
No curtailment is preset. If several reinforcement layers are specified, the remaining two options are
disabled.
If you select a Curtailment by zones, use the list to define how many zones with the same reinforcement
are allowed in the provided reinforcement. Then, RF-CONCRETE Members will find out how to
optimally cover the required steel cross-section areas with the available rebars.
If you select a Curtailment by reinforcement bars, the program will only open a new zone when the
user-defined maximum number of rebars is reached. Use the list to define this rebar number.
Provided Basic Reinforcement

In this window section, you can specify a basic reinforcement As,-z for the top layer and As,+z for the
bottom layer. After selecting the check boxes, you can access the input fields to define the number of
rebars n and the rebar diameters d. Based on these specifications, RF-CONCRETE Members
determines the reinforcement areas As of the basic reinforcement.
When the provided reinforcement is created, the user-defined basic reinforcement is taken into
account. It will be inserted over the entire length of the member or set of members. If the required
reinforcement cannot be covered by the basic reinforcement, the program determines the additionally
required rebars and inserts them into the cross-section.
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3.6.2 Stirrups
This tab manages the specifications for the shear reinforcement.
Figure 3.28 Window 1.6 Reinforcement, Stirrups tab
Reinforcing Steel
The list of possible diameters provides commonly used options for reinforcing bars. Use the button
to adjust the list of available rebar diameters (see Figure 3.27 ).
Stirrup Parameters
With the Number of legs list, you can define how many stirrups are available in the shear force
direction. It is possible to specify up to four legs; two legs are default. The changes are represented
dynamically in the graphic to the right.
The Inclination of the shear reinforcement is defined by the angle between longitudinal and shear
reinforcement. The default is 90°, which means perpendicular stirrups. When changing the angle,
observe the standard specifications: EN 1992-1-1, 9.2.2 (1) only allows for angles between 45° and
90° and stipulates in 9.2.2 (4) that bent bars acting as shear reinforcement may be used only together
with stirrups. At least 50 % of the shear force to be absorbed should be covered by stirrups.
The Anchorage type list provides various possibilities for stirrup anchorages, which affect the
determination of the anchorage lengths. The changes are represented dynamically in the graphic to
the right.
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Stirrup Layout / Stirrup Spacing

This window section is only accessible if a provided reinforcement is created.
A Uniform spacing throughout is default for all members and continuous members.
If you select a Zone related spacing, use the list to specify the number of zones with the same stirrup
layout. Specifying one zone leads to the creation of another zone in addition to the zone with the
maximum stirrup spacing (minimum reinforcement). The additional zone covers the maximum value of
the required stirrup reinforcement. In case of two zones, RF-CONCRETE Members determines the mean
value from the required minimum and maximum reinforcement and applies the corresponding
x-locations in the member as additional zone limits.
If the layout is Subdivided according to stirrup spacing, you have to define a spacing for the stirrup
zones. The zones will change in the spacing intervals that are also determined from the required
minimum and maximum reinforcement with an interpolation method.
When a Defined stirrup spacing is selected, you can choose an entry in the list shown on the left. Use
the button to adjust these entries or create a new entry with user-defined stirrup spacings.
Figure 3.29 New List of Allowable Tie/Stirrup Distances dialog box
An example of user-defined stirrup spacings can be found in the following article:

https://www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/support/knowledge-base/000491
It is also possible to define the Spacing limits according to the standard or to specify them with
user-defined limit values.
The zones presented in the provided reinforcement can be modified or complemented in window 3.2
Provided Shear Reinforcement at any time (see chapter 5.2.2 ).
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3.6.3 Reinforcement Layout
This tab defines how the reinforcement is inserted and which of the RFEM internal forces will be
designed.
Figure 3.30 Window 1.6 Reinforcement, Reinforcement Layout tab
Concrete Cover / Cover to Bar Centroidal Axis

Both window sections are interactive with Design the provided reinforcement (see chapter 3.6 ): If the
check box is selected, the covers refer to the edge distances c. They can be defined in the Concrete
Cover section. If the provided reinforcement is not desired, the specifications refer to the dimensions of
the rebars' centroidal axis u. They can be entered in the section Cover to Bar Centroidal Axis.
Figure 3.31 Centroidal axis u and edge distance c
In the input field c-z(top), you can enter the concrete cover of the longitudinal reinforcement at the top; in
the input field c+z(bottom), specify the cover of the longitudinal reinforcement at the bottom. These values
represent the nominal values of the concrete cover cnom (e.g. EN 1992-11, 4.4.1.1). Based on these
specifications and taking into account the applied rebar diameters, RF-CONCRETE Members
determines the lever arm of internal forces.
"Top" and "bottom" are clearly defined by the position of the local member axes in RFEM. The cover
c±y(side) is needed for the equivalent wall thickness in the torsional design.
The position of the member axes is shown in the cross-section graphic to the right. In the RFEM work
window you can display the local member axes by using the member's shortcut menu or the Display
navigator (see Figure 3.32 ).
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Figure 3.32 Activating the member axis systems in the RFEM Display navigator
When entering the edge distances u for multilayer reinforcements, the distances must relate to the
centroid of the entire reinforcement layer!
If you select the Minimum cover acc. to Standard check box, the default values of the selected design
standard are set. It is also possible to [Edit] the parameters for determining the concrete cover. Clicking
the button opens a dialog box with three tabs where you can adjust the specifications for the layouts
individually.
Figure 3.33 Concrete Cover acc. to Standard dialog box
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Reinforcement Layout
The list contains various ways to arrange the reinforcement in the cross-section:
top - bottom (optimized distribution)

top - bottom (symmetrical distribution)
top - bottom (define ratio As,top / As)
top - bottom (define ratio As,tension / As)
in corners (symmetrical distribution)
uniformly surrounding
For the option -z (top) - +z (bottom) (optimized distribution), RF-CONCRETE Members also performs an
optimization for biaxial bending load.
The reinforcement layout can also be defined by a user-defined Ratio of top reinforcement or tension
reinforcement at the total reinforcement. You can enter the reinforcement ratio in the input field below.
This enables you to analyze existing structural buildings.
For T-beams and I-sections, you can Distribute reinforcement evenly over complete slab width. With this
option, the program releases a part of the rebars. It is also possible to reduce the distribution of the
tension reinforcement over the effective width beff individually with a factor.
If a torsional reinforcement is required, it is distributed over the circumference by default.
Modifications to the reinforcement layout are shown dynamically in the graphic to the right.
In case of pure bending about the minor axis (My = 0; Mz > 0), increased reinforcement areas result
for top - bottom reinforcement layouts: The design moment does not act in the specified distributing
direction of the reinforcement. In this case, it is recommended to use the reinforcement layout In
Corners.
Settings
All internal forces (axial and shear forces, bending and torsional moments) are taken into account for
the design. This window section allows you to suppress particular internal forces in the performance of
the design, for example, if very small torsional moments lead to problems in the shear analysis.
Modifying the default settings is the user's responsibility!
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3.6.4 Min Reinforcement
This tab manages the specifications for the minimum and the secondary reinforcement, as well as the
parameters for crack width control. The entered data is considered for the ultimate and serviceability
limit state designs, but not for the fire resistance design.
Figure 3.34 Window 1.6 Reinforcement, Min Reinforcement tab
Minimum Reinforcement
Two input fields are available for specifying a general minimum reinforcement. You can enter the steel
cross-sections for Min As,-z (top) and Min As,+z (bottom). The reinforcement's cross-sectional areas can also
be determined from the number of rebars and the rebar diameters. Click the button to open the
corresponding dialog box.
Figure 3.35 Import Reinforcement Area from Rebars dialog box
When determining the required reinforcement, it is possible to independently take into account or
exclude the Minimum longitudinal reinforcement and the Minimum shear reinforcement required by the
standard.
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Longitudinal Reinforcement for Shear Force Design

You can choose among three options to decide, which longitudinal reinforcement is applied in the
shear force design without shear reinforcement.
Use required longitudinal reinforcement

The design of shear resistance is carried out with the available tension reinforcement.
Use provided longitudinal reinforcement
For the design of shear resistance, either the user-defined longitudinal reinforcement or the one
suggested by the program is used.
Automatically increase required longitudinal reinforcement to avoid shear reinforcement
If the required longitudinal reinforcement is not sufficient for the shear force resistance, the
longitudinal reinforcement is increased (at most up to the longitudinal reinforcement ratio of 0.02)
until the shear force design is satisfied without any shear reinforcement.
You can find more information about these three options in the following article:
Secondary Reinforcement
This window section is enabled if you design a provided reinforcement.
The Maximum bar spacing of secondary rebars (which are not structurally required) in the cross-section
can be defined by a peak value. The aim of this setting is to find a uniform distribution of bars in the
cross-section leading to a secondary reinforcement of T-beam webs or slender rectangular cross-
sections.
If you select the Identical diameter as longitudinal reinforcement option, the same (minimum) rebar
diameter as for the required reinforcement is used. Alternatively, after clearing the check box, you can
select another diameter ds in the list.
Optionally, you can Add corner reinforcement in order to set a secondary reinforcement in all corners
of the cross-section. This way, it is possible, for example for I-shaped sections, to arrange a
reinforcement outside the web.
Similar to the minimum reinforcement, the secondary reinforcement, if sufficiently anchored, is taken
into account for the ultimate limit state design and the calculation of crack widths.
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3.6.5 Shear Joint
In the design according to EN 1992-1-1, it is possible to design shear joints of casting segments, as
well as shear forces between beam web and flange.
Figure 3.36 Window 1.6 Reinforcement, Shear Joint tab
Shear Joint
By selecting the Shear joint available check box, you can activate the design of joints, for example in
concrete additions for precast members. The other input fields will be enabled for entering the
parameters according to EN 1992-1-1, 6.2.5.
The Location of shear joint must be defined by the distance from the top or bottom side of the plate.
Alternatively, it can be arranged automatically between plate and web.
The Surface classification can be selected in the list. EN 1992-1-1, 6.2.5 (2) describes the different
surface categories.
If there is Fatigue or dynamic loads, the roughness factors c must be halved according to
EN 1922-1-1, 6.2.5 (5). For this, specify the support widths a+y and a-y of the precast elements, as well
as the stress σn, if applicable, due to the minimum axial force perpendicular to the joint.
Shear Force Between Member Web and Flange

The check box provides the possibility of activating the Design of flange connections on segmented
cross-sections.
Details
The [Details] button opens the Details dialog box with general calculation settings (see Figure 4.1 ).
In the Ultimate Limit State tab, you can define the calculation method for determining the shear stress in
shear joints, as well as the longitudinal force difference between member web and flange. The
theoretical background is described in chapter 2.1.4 .
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3.6.6 Standard
The parameters in this tab depend on the standard set in window 1.1 General Data (see Figure
3.2 ). Here, you can specify standard-specific reinforcement data, which is described in the following
for EN 1992-1-1.
Use the [Default] button in the bottom right corner of this tab to restore the initial values of the selected
standard.
Figure 3.37 Window 1.6 Reinforcement, EN 1992-1-1 tab
Percentages of Reinforcement
The input field controls the general maximum percentage of reinforcement for the beam. EN 1992-1-1,
9.2.1.1 (3) recommends a value of As,max = 0.04 Ac for tension or compression reinforcement and
refers to country-specific regulations. The National Annex for Germany defines the maximum value of
the sum resulting from tension and compression reinforcement with As,max = 0.08 Ac, which must not be
exceeded, even in zones of overlapping joints.
Various
If the concrete compression area is no longer able to absorb compression forces, a compression
reinforcement is required. This occurs if the bending moment is exceeded, which results from the
concrete edge's compression strain of −3.50 ‰ and the strain εyd when reaching the yield strength of
the reinforcing steel. For rebars of the material type 500, a related neutral axis depth of x/d = 0.617
ensues. In case of continuous beams, horizontal beams of non-sway frames, and structural components
mainly stressed by bending, you should not use this limiting bending moment to its full capacity in order
to ensure a sufficient ability for rotation.
With the check box you can limit the depth of the compression area according to EN 1992-1-1,
5.6.3 (2). In this case, the maximum ratio is xd/d = 0.45 for concrete up to strength class C50/60 and
xd/d = 0.35 for concrete starting from strength class C55/67.
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Shear Reinforcement
The two input fields define the allowable range of the compression strut inclination. If there are
user-defined angles beyond the allowed limits of the standard, a corresponding error message
appears.
EN 1992-1-1 provides an integrated model for calculating the shear force resistance. For structural
components with shear reinforcement perpendicular to the component's axis (α= 90°), the following
applies:
A sw
V Rds z f ywd cot q
s
Equation 3.2 Shear resistance according to EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (6.8)
where
s spacing of links
fywd design yield strength of shear reinforcement
z lever arm of internal forces (assumed as 0.9 ⋅ d)
The inclination of the concrete compression strut θ may be selected within certain limits depending on
the loading. This way, the equation can take into account the fact that a part of the shear force is
resisted by crack friction and the virtual truss is thus less stressed. These limits are recommended in
EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (6.7N) as follows:
1 cot q 2
5
Equation 3.3 Compression strut inclination
The compression strut inclination θ can vary between these values:
Minimum Maximum
inclination inclination
θ 21.8° 45°
cot θ 2.5 1
Table 3.2 Limits for compression strut inclination
The National Annex for Germany allows for a flatter compression strut inclination of 18.4°.
s cd
1
2 1
4
f cd
0 cot q
1 3
0
V Rdcc
1
V Ed
Equation 3.4 Compression strut inclination NA Germany
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A flatter concrete compression strut results in reduced tension forces within the shear reinforcement and
thus in a reduced required area of reinforcement.
Factors
The upper input fields control the Partial safety factors according to 2.4.2.4 for concrete γc and
reinforcing steel γs. The values according to EN 1992-1-1, Table 2.1N are preset for the load-bearing
capacity. In the same way, the recommended values are preset for the serviceability. They can be
adjusted as needed.
The Reduction factor α for considering long-term effects on the concrete strength can be specified
separately for compression and tension loads. Again, a differentiation by design situations is possible.
The values recommended in EN 1992-1-1, 3.1.6 are preset.
According to the National Annex for Germany, the reduction factor for the concrete compressive
strength to be applied is αcc = 0.85, the one for the concrete tensile strength is also αct = 0.85.
According to EN 1992-1-1, remark to 3.1.7 (3), the value η ⋅ fcd must additionally be reduced by
10 % if the width of the compression area decreases towards the compressed edge of the
cross-section. If this condition is given, RF-CONCRETE Members will perform the reduction
automatically.
This tab is displayed if at least one load case or load combination is selected for the serviceability limit
state design in window 1.1 General Data.
Figure 3.38 Window 1.6 Reinforcement, Serviceability tab
For information on the theoretical background of serviceability limit state designs, see chapter 2.2 .
For the serviceability limit state design, you can specify various criteria concerning stress design and
crack width analysis. Table 3.3 provides an overview of the relevant clauses in the standard.
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Design Normative specifications in

EN 1992-1-1
Limitation of concrete stress σc 7.2 (1)
Limitation of steel stress σs 7.2 (4)
Limitation of crack widths wk 7.3.1 (5) and 7.3.4
Limit diameter limit ds Table 7.2 (see Figure 2.3 )
Maximum rebar spacing limit sl Table 7.3 (see Figure 2.4 )
Minimum reinforcement min As 7.3.2 (2)
Table 3.3 Stress designs and crack width analyses
Not all of these designs have to be fulfilled. The design of concrete and steel stresses, for example, can
be dispensed with if the internal forces are determined according to the elasticity theory, not more than
15 % are redistributed in the ULS design, and the rules according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 9 are
followed.
By deactivating individual designs (e.g. stress designs), they are not considered for the determination
of the longitudinal reinforcement. The available results (e.g. concrete and steel stresses under loading
in serviceability limit state), however, are still displayed in the results windows 4.1 to 4.4.
Concrete Stress Analysis

EN 1992-1-1, 7.2 (1) requires the Limitation of concrete compressive stress σc in order to avoid
function-affecting longitudinal cracks, micro cracks, or strong creep.
The concrete compressive stresses can be reduced according to clause 7.2 (2) and 7.2 (3) with the
factors k1 (0.6 recommended) and k2 (0.45 recommended), or a user-defined factor α.
Design of Crack Width Control

The Limit value for allowable crack width wk,max can be specified for the top and bottom side of the
member according to EN 1992-1-1, 7.3.1 (5). The [Info] button opens a dialog box with information
about the surrounding conditions.
Figure 3.39 Crack widths depending on exposure class according to EN 1992-1-1
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It is also possible to specify the crack widths individually for the top and bottom reinforcement.
For the limitation of crack widths, three different criteria are available according to which the
reinforcement is designed:
Design Normative specifications in

EN 1992-1-1
Limit diameter limit ds Table 7.2 (see Figure 2.3 )
Maximum rebar spacing limit sl Table 7.3 (see Figure 2.4 )
Direct calculation of crack width wk 7.3.1 (5) and 7.3.4
Table 3.4 Crack width designs
These design criteria are described in chapter 2.2.4 .
Generally, only one of the limit ds, limit sl, or wk criteria must be fulfilled for the crack width design!
With the Find the most economical reinforcement for crack width design option in the Determination of
Longitudinal Reinforcement section (see below), you can check, which of the three criteria can be
covered by the least necessary reinforcement area. The program will add individual rebars to the
provided reinforcement until the design is successfully fulfilled.
For the direct crack width calculation of wk, you can define an upper limit for the maximum crack
spacing sr,max according to EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (7.14) (see chapter 2.2.4 ).
The effective concrete tensile strength fct,eff,wk at the moment of cracking used for the crack width
analysis can be influenced by a factor for the mean concrete tensile strength fctm. The effective concrete
tensile strength fct,eff,wk is also used in the analytical serviceability limit state design to analyze whether
the cross-section is cracked or uncracked. The general settings in the Serviceability tab of the Details
dialog box also allow you to analyze the crack width on the uncracked cross-section, meaning fct,eff,wk
is not reached (see Figure 4.2 ).
Deflection Analysis
If the check box is selected, the additional module window 1.7 Deflection Data is available for
entering the member parameters (see chapter 3.7 ).
Steel Stress Analysis

EN 1992-1-1, 7.2 (4) requires a Limitation of steel stress σs in order to avoid non-elastic strains,
unallowable crack formations, and deformations.
The steel stresses can be reduced according to clause 7.2 (5) by the factors k3 (0.8 recommended)
and k4 (1.0 recommended), or by a user-defined factor α.
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Minimum Reinforcement for Effects Due to Restraint
Figure 3.40 Window section Minimum Reinforcement for Effects Due to Restraint (for NA DIN and ÖNORM)
When designing the limitation of crack widths, you have to distinguish between load actions and
effects due to restraint. An effect due to restraint is considerably reduced by crack formation in the
structural component. A sufficiently dimensioned minimum reinforcement As,min provides for an
allocation of the entire component reduction to several cracks with accordingly small crack widths. The
crack widths due to load actions, however, depend on the available steel stress and the reinforcement
layout.
For effects due to restraint, it is necessary for the criterion of the minimum reinforcement As,min to always
be fulfilled.
The Stress distribution within the section prior to cracking affects the factor kc according to
EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (7.1). Several options are available in the list. kc = 1.0 is applied to centric restraint
with pure tension load. In the case of bending restraint with pure bending load, σc is equal to zero in
the component axis, and thus kc = 0.4 according to Eq. (7.2). Alternatively, it is possible to determine
kc according to Eq. (7.2) or (7.3) dependent on the loading, whereas the mean concrete stress σc is
determined from the loads. In addition to the stress distribution, the factor kc approximatively considers
the increase of the inner lever arm for crack formation.
The As,min layout list defines the reinforcement layer the minimum reinforcement is assigned to.
If you expect a Crack formation in the first 28 days, you should reduce the effective concrete tensile
strength fct,eff according to EN 1992-1-1, 7.3.2 (2). You can enter the appropriate reduction factor into
the input field. The German National Annex recommends to use fct,eff = 0.50 ⋅ fctm (28d). If you cannot
determine a definite point of time for crack formation within the first 28 days, a tensile strength of at
least 3 N/mm2 for normal concrete should be assumed in accordance with the German National
Annex.
The National Annex for Germany for EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.3.2 (2) distinguishes between the types
of effect due to restraint for the factor k that is used to consider nonlinearly distributed self-equilibrating
stresses. You have to specify whether tensile stresses are caused due to
restraint caused in the structural component itself (e.g. from drain of hydration heat) or
restraint caused outside of the structural component (e.g. column settlement).
In RF-CONCRETE Members, the crack width is calculated directly for the respective load action
according to EN 1992-1-1, 7.3.4. For effects due to restraint, the program designs the minimum
reinforcement for limiting the specified crack width according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.3.2.
The 0.85 As,min for slowly hardening concrete check box allows you to reduce the minimum
reinforcements for concretes with r ≤ 0.3 according to the National Annex for Germany or Austria.
You can find further information about this in the following article:
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Determination of Longitudinal Reinforcement
Figure 3.41 Determination of Longitudinal Reinforcement window section
The Increase the required longitudinal reinforcement automatically for serviceability limit state design
check box allows you to design the longitudinal reinforcement so that the design for serviceability is
fulfilled. If this option is deactivated, the program uses the provided reinforcement for the SLS design
that results from the ultimate limit state design or from manually defined specifications.
The reinforcement's dimensioning for the SLS design is determined by increasing the reinforcement
iteratively. The required ULS reinforcement serves as the initial value for iterations. The program
analyzes whether it is sufficient to resist the characteristic load. If not, it is increased gradually. The
dimensioning process ends without results if the rebar spacing sl of the reinforcement is as large as the
rebar diameter dsl. The results windows will indicate that the respective point cannot be designed.
For the design according to EN 1992-1-1, it is possible to Find the most economical reinforcement for
crack width design. Click the [Info] button to display information about this procedure. The Information
dialog box describes when the check of crack width can be considered as being fulfilled.
Figure 3.42 Information dialog box for determining the most economical reinforcement
Clause 7.2 of EN 1992-1-1 describes, under which conditions the stresses shall be limited. This means
that not all design ratios shown in window 4.1 have to be less than 1 in order to fulfill the
serviceability limit state design!
The following article on our website describes how the program determines the most economic
reinforcement for the crack width analysis:
If the check box to Consider As,min acc. to 7.3.2 also for the direct calculation of crack width acc. to
7.3.4 is selected, As,min is also considered if the crack width design is performed in the most
economical way by using direct calculation according to 7.3.4. Hence, if the check box is clear, the
reinforcement will only be considered if the crack width design is carried out without direct calculation.
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Details
The [Details] button opens the Details dialog box. In the Serviceability tab, you can specify additional
settings for the SLS designs.
Figure 3.43 Details dialog box, Serviceability tab
This dialog tab is described in chapter 4.1.2 .
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3.6.8 Tapered
This tab only appears if the RFEM model includes tapered members.
Figure 3.44 Window 1.6 Reinforcement, Tapered tab
RF-CONCRETE Members is also able to design tapered members if the same cross-section type is
defined for the member start and end. Otherwise it is not possible to interpolate intermediate values,
and RFEM displays a corresponding error message before starting the calculation.
Figure 3.45 Error message in case of incompatible tapered cross-sections
Tapered sets of members are only designed if the entire set of members has a linear cross-sectional
profile.
Tapering
The following three options are available to describe the taper in detail:
uniform
bottom
top
This specification affects the design as well as the arrangement of the longitudinal reinforcement (see
Figure 3.46 ).
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Figure 3.46 Taper with inclined bottom side
Tapered Beam Axis

To display the reinforcement in the 3D rendering of RFEM, you must specify the position of the tapered
member axis. Normally, tapers in the structural system are defined centrically in RFEM. However,
tapers in RF-CONCRETE Members are usually designed and calculated with displaced taperings. In
order to correctly display the reinforcement's connection to the continuing members in the RFEM
rendering, you have to specify the member end of the tapered member that will be displaced in
construction - provided that it has not yet been taken into account by member eccentricities in RFEM.
Use the [Info] button to see more information.
Figure 3.47 Information dialog box describing taper member axes
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3.6.9 Fire Resistance
The final tab of window 1.6 is available if at least one load case or load combination is selected for
the fire resistance design in window 1.1 General Data (see chapter 3.1.4 ). The "fire protection
design" is performed as per the simplified calculation method according to EN 1992-1-2, clause 4.2
(see chapter 2.3 ).
Figure 3.48 Window 1.6 Reinforcement, Fire Resistance tab
In the bottom right corner of this tab, you can find the [Default] button for restoring the initial values.
Data for Fire Resistance Design

Five drop-down lists control the parameters that have a decisive influence on the fire resistance design:
Fire resistance class (according to EN 1992-1-2, clause 1.6.1 (1))

Number of zones (zone method according to EN 1992-12, Annex B.2)
Type of concrete aggregates (see Figure 2.9 and Figure 2.11 )
Classification of reinforcement (see Figure 2.14 and Figure 2.15 )
Production type of reinforcing steel (see Figure 2.16 and Figure 2.17 )
These parameters are described in the theory chapter 2.3 .
The Cross-section sides exposed to fire have to be defined as well. If not All sides are affected by
charring, clear the corresponding check box (see Figure 3.48 ). The check boxes around the
cross-section symbol to the right become accessible, allowing for specific settings. The directions refer
to the local member axes.
In the case of asymmetrical effects of fire, the cross-section is stressed by an additional thermal
precamber due to the temperature difference that must be considered in the calculation according to
EN 1992-1-2, clause 2.4.2 (4). This thermal precamber affects the load-bearing capacity of structural
components such as brackets calculated according to the second-order analysis. The program
internally creates a member load as precamber of the cross-section and superimposes it with the
design loads.
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The Design longitudinal reinforcement for fire resistance check box controls whether the provided
reinforcement also considers effects of fire in addition to the ultimate limit state.
Material Factors in Case of Fire

The two upper input fields control the Partial safety factors for concrete γc and reinforcing steel γs that
must be applied for the fire resistance design. The values recommended in EN 1992-1-2, clause 2.3
(2) are preset.
The Reduction factor α used to consider long-term effects on the concrete strength in case of fire can be
specified separately for compression and tension loads. The value 1.0 recommended in EN 1992-1-1,
clause 3.1.6 is preset in both input fields.
With the Consider thermal strain of concrete and reinforcement steel option, it is possible to consider
the difference between the strain of the "hot" reinforcement and the concrete cross-section's regular
thermal strain in the form of a pre-compression strain of the rebar. For loading due to temperature,
thermal longitudinal strains occur in concrete and reinforcing steel, varying within the cross-section
because of the non-uniform temperature distribution. The thermal strains cannot freely arise everywhere
in the cross-section as they are influenced by the adjacent areas. Generally, it may be assumed that the
cross-sections remain plane. As the thermal strain of the reinforcement in the cross-section's edge area
is restricted, the reinforcement is pre-compressed.
The zone method according to EN 1992-1-2 includes only a calculation of structural components,
which means the thermal additional strains in the centroid are not taken into account by the standard.
According to Hosser [11] , however, these thermal strains must not be neglected for calculations
according to the second-order analysis. In his approach, the concrete's thermal strain is calculated
across the entire concrete cross-section by using the temperature's mean value.
Consider Checks
Annex D to EN 1992-1-2 contains a calculation method for shear and torsional design of structural
components exposed to fire. This method can be activated separately for both internal force types.
As this calculation method for shear and torsional design is not allowed in Germany, both options are
disabled for a design according to German standards.
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3.7 Deflection Data

This window is only available if the deflection analysis is activated in the bottom left in the Serviceability
tab of window 1.6 Reinforcement.
Window 1.6, Serviceability tab
Figure 3.49 Window 1.7 Deflection Data
The design criterion of the deflection ul,z considers the displacement in direction of the local member
axis z. The reinforcement's layout for the deformation analysis is carried out as per the simplified
method according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.4.3.
Reference to
Column A shows if the deflection refers to single members or sets of members.
Member/Set of members No.

In this text box, you can enter the numbers of the members or sets of members to be designed. Click the
button for a graphical selection in the RFEM work window. Then, enter the length of the member or
set of members as the Reference Length in column D.
Reference Length
The list in column C allows you to manipulate the reference lengths of the deflections. With the
Member default setting, the distance between start and end nodes is used. The Distance between
supports option uses the reduced span length resulting from the support widths specified in window 1.5
Supports (see chapter 3.5 ).
Use the User-defined option to individually specify the reference length in column D.
For sets of members with different field lengths, the program determines the variable span lengths
automatically. They can be displayed in the tooltip.
Figure 3.50 Reference lengths of a set of members with different span lengths
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Precamber
In this column, you can enter a Precamber w0.
The shape of the precamber is calculated as follows:
x

w cx w 0 sin

L
where
wc,x : precamber at location x

w0 : precamber specified in column E
x : location x
L : length of member or set of members
Limit value / uz,max

Enter the relative limit value of the deflection in column F. A sag of 1/250 of the span length is preset
as recommended in EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.4.1 (4). In the list, you can select another limit value or
specify a User-defined value.
The maximum allowable deflection is indicated in column G. It is determined from the limit value
(column F) and the reference length (column D).
Details
The [Details] button opens the Details dialog box. In the Serviceability tab, you can set the relation of
deformations.
Figure 3.51 Relation of deformations in Details dialog box
Both options are described in chapter 4.1.2 .
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4 Calculation RF-CONCRETE Members - User Manual
4 Calculation
RF-CONCRETE Members uses the RFEM internal forces for the design. If results are not yet available in
RFEM, the internal forces are calculated automatically.
4.1 Details
The Details dialog box manages global settings for the analysis approaches.
Figure 4.1 Details dialog box, Ultimate Limit State tab
Analysis Method for Shear Stress at Interface Between Concrete

In this dialog section, you can specify the calculation method according to which the shear stresses in
the shear joint are determined. Both calculation types are described in chapter 2.1.4 .
Shear Force Between Member Web and Flange

Plates on T-beams or box sections acting as compression or tension chords must be connected to the
web by a shear-resisting connection. It must be verified that on the one hand the bearing capacity of
the concrete compression strut is not exceeded, and on the other hand the tension strut force of the
shear reinforcement can be absorbed. The theoretical basis for transferring shear forces between
beam web and flanges is described in EN 1992-1-1, clause 6.2.4.
The Simplified method is preset for the design. In this method, only moments about the structural
component's y-axis with the inner lever arm z = 0.9 ⋅ d are considered.
Alternatively, it is possible to determine the longitudinal force difference by a General integration of

stresses in single cross-section parts. However, this option requires more calculation time. This
procedure is described in chapter 2.1.4 .
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4.1.2 Serviceability
Figure 4.2 Details dialog box, Serviceability tab
Design Situation Settings for Serviceability Limit State Checks

By selecting the check boxes in the table, you can decide which serviceability limit state designs are
performed in the individual design situations. Thus, it is possible to calculate different limit values per
design situation directly in a concrete case. For example, with the settings shown in Figure 4.2 , the
program will analyze the crack widths wk only with loads of the Frequent and Quasi-Permanent design
situations.
Click the [Info] button to display information describing the requirements the limit values of the
serviceability limit state designs are based on.
Figure 4.3 Information dialog box
Use the [Select or Clear All for Selected Line] button to quickly activate or suppress all checks for a
particular design situation.
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Design of Crack Width Control

After selecting the Crack width control for σc,I.Ed < fct,eff,wk check box, the crack width analysis will also
be performed on the locations where the concrete's effective tensile strength fct,eff,wk is not reached.
Deformation relative to
The two options control whether the maximum deformations are related to the Shifted members ends or
set of members end (connection line between start and end nodes of deformed system) or to the
Undeformed system. Generally, the deformations have to be designed relative to the displacements in
the entire structural system.
An example of the relation of member deformations can be found in the following article:
4.2 Details for Nonlinear Calculation

It is possible to control the nonlinear calculation by means of parameters that affect the analysis
method and the convergence behavior. They are managed in the Settings for Nonlinear Calculation
dialog box. You can open the dialog box with the button available in window 1.1 (see Figure
3.1 and Figure 3.9 ). The dialog box consists of three tabs.
4.2.1 Analysis Method
Figure 4.4 Settings for Nonlinear Calculation dialog box, Analysis Method tab for EN 1992-1-1
The sections in this tab differ depending on the selected design standard (ACI 318 does not provide
for nonlinear calculations). The following description refers to EN 1992-1-1.
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Analysis Method - Deformations and Internal Forces
Method with mean values of material strength and with global partial safety
factor
As described in chapter 2.4.7 , two methods for the nonlinear calculation are specified in EN
1992-1-1. The Method with mean values according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.7 is preset.
The procedure has been modified in order to consistently use one safety concept only. According to
EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.7 (NA.10) for Germany, the global partial safety factor on the ultimate load
side is to be applied as follows:
γR = 1.3 for permanent and temporary design situations and analysis for fatigue
γR = 1.1 for extraordinary design situations
The concrete's modulus of elasticity can be reduced by a factor of 0.85 for the analysis. This is
recommended for cross-sections that are fully compressed.
General design method for members in axial compression acc. to second order
theory
The General design method according to EN 1992-1-1, clause 5.8.6 is mainly suited for the design of
slender compression elements. In most cases, the determination of deformations and internal forces
using verified mean values leads to more efficient designs. Chapter 2.4.7.2 provides more
information about this method.
Allow utilization of yielding
The check box is enabled for both analysis methods (EN 1992-1-1, clauses 5.7 or 5.8.6). The reason
for it is that clause 8.6.1 (5) of the German DIN standard 1045-1 does not allow plastic releases
(curvatures (1/r)m > (1/r)y) for structural components stressed by longitudinal compression. Because of
the abrupt stiffness decrease when plastic zones or releases are created, the result is often a loss of
stability for slender compression elements resulting in failure of the column.
If the check box is clear, no plastic curvatures are possible in the calculation of cross-section curvatures.
Design of longitudinal reinforcement for percentage of utilization
If this option is activated, the longitudinal reinforcement will be increased if the cross-section's load
bearing capacity is exceeded. This is the case when the design ratio in the results window of the
nonlinear calculation (see chapter 5.5.1 ) is greater than 1.
Analysis Method - Shear and Torsional Rigidity
Shear rigidity
If you Apply linear elastic shear rigidity, the shear areas will be calculated linear-elastically. Reduction
due to cracking is not taken into account.
Alternatively, you can Reduce shear rigidity affine to flexural rigidity. In this case, the linear-elastic
shear stiffness diagram will be reduced in line with the diagram of bending stiffness. The theoretical
basis is described in chapter 2.4.5.2 .
Torsional rigidity
By default, the torsional stiffness is calculated while considering cracking according to the approach by
Leonhardt [9] (see chapter 2.4.5.2 ).
The Global reduction of torsional rigidity allows you to reduce the stiffness for cracking to a
user-defined residual value. A residual stiffness of 10 % is preset, which is based on the relatively high
decrease of torsional stiffness (see Figure 2.27 ).
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Export of Nonlinear Stiffness

In this dialog section, you can save the stiffness from nonlinear calculations (considering reinforcement
and cracked state) to use it later in RFEM. This way, it is possible to also consider the reduced
stiffnesses of reinforced concrete components in the cracked state for the determination of internal
forces and the design of remaining structural components consisting of steel or timber. This is useful, for
example, if the stiffening components of a model are designed in reinforced concrete.
In the Extra Options tab of the Edit Load Cases and Combinations dialog box in RFEM, you can also
find settings for considering the nonlinear stiffness from RF-CONCRETE Members.
Figure 4.5 RFEM dialog box Edit Load Cases and Combinations, Extra Options tab
The two options in the add-on module's dialog box control the assignment of stiffnesses for RFEM: The
stiffnesses of load combinations calculated linearly with RF-CONCRETE Members can be saved
Individually (separately). Then, in RFEM, they will only be useable for the respective load
combinations. With the Consistent for reference load option, however, the stiffness of a reference load
is saved, which can then be assigned to any load combination in RFEM.
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4.2.2 Tension Stiffening
Figure 4.6 Settings for Nonlinear Calculation dialog box, Tension Stiffening Effect tab
The specifications for the Tension Stiffening Effect (effectiveness of concrete between cracks) can be
defined separately for the ultimate limit state, the serviceability limit state, and for fire resistance.
Tension Stiffening Approach
Concrete (residual) tensile strength
The approach is based on a residual tensile strength of concrete described by Quast [7] that is
defined depending on the governing strain of the steel fibre within the tension zone. This approach is
represented graphically in chapter 2.4.3.1 .
Modified steel characteristic diagram
As described in chapter 2.4.3.2 , the Tension Stiffening Effect can also be considered through a
modified characteristic steel curve. The computing time will be slightly increased, because in addition
to the sole calculation in cracked sections (state II ), the analysis requires a calculation in the
uncracked state, as well as a determination of crack internal forces.
Without tension stiffening
If the Tension Stiffening Effect is not taken into account, the program will simply distinguish between
cracked and uncracked zones: In uncracked zones, the program calculates using the concrete's
corresponding stiffness in uncracked sections (state I, considering the provided longitudinal
reinforcement). In cracked zones, it calculates with the stiffnesses available in pure state II.
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Tension Stiffening
The calculation values of the concrete tensile strength determine the exponent of the parabola area in
a way that results in an increase affine to the compression zone (Ecm = Ectm).
Effective Tensile Strength fct,R
To take the appropriate safety level into account, it is possible to select one of the following strengths
for the concrete tensile strength to be applied:
fctm : mean axial tensile strength

fctk; 0.05 : characteristic value of 5%-quantile of tensile strength
ftk; 0.95 : characteristic value of 95%-quantile of axial tensile strength
Adjustment Factor of Tensile Strength fct,R
The value for the concrete tensile strength fct,R applied for calculation can be influenced by an
adjustment factor. Thus, it is possible to consider boundary conditions such as existing damage.
Pfeiffer [8] suggests a reduction to 60 % of the tensile strengths (default setting).
Normal force as initial force
This check box is important for the calculation of crack internal forces: If it is selected (not possible for
method by Quast [7] ), the axial force will be kept constant for the calculation of crack moments. This
case is applicable in case of an acting prestress, for example. If it is clear, the entire load vector will be
considered for the calculation of the crack internal forces.
Concrete Material - Calculation Parameters

The Standard Values of the concrete parameters are preset (see chapter 2.4.3.1 ). After clearing the
check box (fourth table column), you can directly influence the stress-strain curve of the tension zone.
As the values are interdependent, the corresponding columns are adjusted accordingly after a
modification.
Duration of Loading for the Designed Load Cases and Load

Combinations
This dialog section manages the load duration factors β for applying the reduction term (εsr2 - εsr1), that
is the strains of the governing steel fibres for the crack internal forces in the cracked or uncracked state
(see chapter 2.4.3.2 ). The factor β depends on the time of load duration:
0.25 : permanent load or repeated loading

0.4 : short-term loading
When applying a Modified characteristic steel diagram, you can use the check box to decide if a load
case is considered a Permanent Load or short-time load.
For load combinations, the applied factor β2 represents the average of the respective β2-values of the
load cases contained in the combination.
When designing compression elements, you generally have to use the Tension Stiffening model by
Quast. The residual tension force can be influenced by the Adjustment Factor of Tensile Strength fct,R.
The Tension Stiffening model with the modified characteristic steel curve is based on a distinction
between cracked (M > Mcr) and uncracked zones (M < Mcr): In the uncracked zone, the program
calculates linear-elastically using a constant modulus of elasticity for concrete (Ecm,eff). In the case of
predominant compression, however, considerably expanded curvatures occur for minor moment
loadings due to the nonlinear diagram of the concrete's stress-strain curve. Thus, results may be very
much on the unsafe side.
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4.2.3 Iteration Parameters
Figure 4.7 Settings for Nonlinear Calculation dialog box, Iteration Parameters tab
For more information about this tab, see chapter 2.4.9 .
Adaptive Element Division

The locked setting options of this dialog section are not required for RF-CONCRETE Members: The FE
division allowing for a fine control of the convergence behavior is used for nonlinear calculations.
Click the button to open the FE Mesh dialog box where you can adjust the global target length of
elements of the FE mesh and the division specifications for members.
Iteration Parameters
You can control the iteration process with the parameters in this dialog section.
Max. number of iterations per load increment
The iteration process strongly depends on the cross-section shape, the structural system, and the
loading. Thus, the number of iterations required to reach the break-off limits is exposed to strong
fluctuations. The preset value of 50 iterations is sufficient for most practical applications but can be
adjusted, if necessary.
Damping of the change in stiffness between two iteration steps
The program determines the difference in stiffness on a node in the course of two successive iteration
steps. The Damping factor represents the part of the stiffness difference that is considered for the new
stiffness applied in the subsequent iteration step. By reducing the stiffness changes between two
iteration steps, it is possible to counteract the calculation's oscillation.
The higher the damping factor, the smaller the damping's influence. If the factor is equal to 1, the
damping does not affect the iterative calculation.
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Break Limits ε1 / ε2 / ε3
The break-off limits can be adjusted depending on purpose and function: Even if relatively roughly
defined break limits (ε1 = ε2 ≤ 0.01) lead to sufficiently accurate results when calculating according to
linear static analysis (beam deformations in SLS, for example), it is nevertheless recommended to refine
the tolerances used for stability analyses (ε1 = ε2 ≤ 0.001). Example 3 in chapter 9.3 illustrates the
effect clearly.
With the break limit ε3, you can additionally control the deformation change. This criterion observes
how the size of the maximum deformation changes. The specified damping factor is also taken into
account.
Load Increments
The loading can be gradually applied in order to avoid or attenuate an abrupt stiffness change within
the individual finite elements ("adapting" the system to the loading). The aim is to avoid the generation
of major stiffness changes during an iteration. When the loading is applied step-by-step, it is possible in
the iteration step of a load increment to always fall back on the corresponding final stiffness of the
element from the previous load increment.
Number of load increments
This input field determines the number of individual load increments for the nonlinear calculation.
Load application
Linear
The load is applied in linear steps.
Trilinear
As you can only react to the load-dependent stiffness development with a correspondingly fine
gradation when applying loads linearly, RF-CONCRETE Members provides a trilinear load
application as an alternative. Thus, it is possible to respond accordingly to boundary conditions like
creeping near the state of failure.
Trilinear load application: 75 % / 98 % / 100 % The trilinear load application is managed by a table: You have to specify two intermediate points that
characterize the respective applied load ratio.
4.3 Check
Before you start the calculation, it is recommended to check if the input data is correct. The [Check]
button is available in every input window of RF-CONCRETE Members.
The program checks if the data required for the design is complete and if the references of the data
sets are defined sensibly. If the program does not detect any input errors, the following message is
displayed.
Figure 4.8 Plausibility check
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4.4 Starting the Calculation

In every input window of RF-CONCRETE Members, you can start the calculation with the [Calculation]
button.
RF-CONCRETE Members searches for the results of the load cases, load combinations, and result
combinations to be designed. If they cannot be found, the RFEM calculation initially starts in order to
determine the design-relevant internal forces.
You can also start the calculation in the RFEM user interface: The To Calculate dialog box (menu
Calculate To Calculate) lists the design cases of the add-on modules such as load cases or load
combinations.
Figure 4.9 To Calculate dialog box
If the design cases of RF-CONCRETE Members are missing in the Not Calculated section, select All or
Add-on Modules from the drop-down list below.
To transfer the selected RF-CONCRETE Members cases to the list on the right, click . Then, click
[OK] to start the calculation.
To calculate a design case directly, use the drop-down list in the RFEM toolbar: Set the RF-CONCRETE
Members case and click the [Show Results] button.
Figure 4.10 Direct calculation of an RF-CONCRETE Members design case in RFEM
You can subsequently observe the calculation process in the solver dialog box (see Figure 9.20 ).
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5 Results RF-CONCRETE Members - User Manual
5 Results
Window 2.1 Required Reinforcement by Cross-Section is displayed after the calculation.
Figure 5.1 Results window
The reinforcement areas required for the ultimate limit state design are listed in the results windows 2.1
to 2.4. If the program created a reinforcement proposal, the provided reinforcement including steel
schedule is displayed in the results windows 3.1 to 3.4.
Windows 4.1 to 4.4 contain the results of the serviceability limit state designs. Windows 5.1 to 5.4
show the results of the fire resistance designs.
Windows 6.1 to 6.4 are reserved for the results determined by a nonlinear design.
Every window can be selected directly by clicking the corresponding entry in the navigator. To go to
the previous or subsequent module window, use the buttons shown on the left. You can also use the
function keys [F2] and [F3] to go through the windows.
Click [OK] to save the results. RF-CONCRETE Members closes and you return to the main program.
Chapter 5 describes the result windows one by one. Evaluating and checking results is described in
chapter 6 .
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5.1 Required Reinforcement
5.1.1 Required Reinforcement by Cross-Section
The table shows the maximum reinforcement areas of all analyzed members, which are determined
from the internal forces of the load cases, load and result combinations selected for the ultimate limit
state design.
Figure 5.2 Window 2.1 Required Reinforcement by Cross-Section
The program displays the maximum required reinforcement areas resulting from the parameters of the
reinforcement groups and the internal forces of the governing actions for all designed cross-sections.
The reinforcement areas of the longitudinal and the shear reinforcement are sorted by cross-sections.
Both parts of the window show the reinforcement types and design details that are selected in the
Results to Display dialog box (see Figure 5.3 ).
The lower part of the window lists all Detailed Results for the table row selected above. These design
details allow for a specific evaluation of the results. If you select another table row in the upper part,
the detailed results will automatically be updated in the lower part.
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Reinforcement
The following longitudinal and shear reinforcements are preset:
Reinforceme Explanation
nt
As,-z(top) Reinforcement area of the required top longitudinal reinforcement due to

axial force, or bending with or without axial force
As,+z(bottom) Reinforcement area of the required bottom longitudinal reinforcement due to

axial force, or bending with or without axial force
As,T Reinforcement area of torsional axial reinforcement, if required
asw,V,stirrup Area of required shear reinforcement for absorption of shear force, in relation
to the standard length 1 m
asw,T,stirrup Area of required shear reinforcement for absorption of torsional moment, in

relation to the standard length 1 m
asf,-z(top) Area of required shear reinforcement for absorption of shear forces between
beam web and flanges on the -z side of the cross-section, in relation to the
standard length 1 m
asw,T,stirrup Area of required shear reinforcement for absorption of shear forces between
beam web and flanges on the +z-side, in relation to the standard length 1 m
Table 5.1 Longitudinal and shear reinforcements
The top reinforcement is defined on the member side in direction of the negative local member axis z
(-z), the bottom reinforcement correspondingly in the direction of the positive axis z (+z). To display the
Top and Bottom layer member axes, use the Display navigator in the RFEM graphical user interface or the shortcut menu of
the member (see Figure 3.32 ).
Click the [To Display] button to open a dialog box where you can specify the reinforcement results to
be displayed in the upper part of the window.
Figure 5.3 Results to Display dialog box
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The settings in this dialog box also control the results output in the printout report!
Member No.
For each cross-section and each reinforcement type, the table shows the number of the member that
has the maximum reinforcement area.
Location x
The column shows the x-location on the member for which the program has determined the maximum
reinforcement. The following RFEM member locations x are used for the table output:
Start and end node

Division points according to member division, if specified (see RFEM Table 1.16)
Member division according to specification for member results (Global Calculation Parameters tab of
Calculation Parameters dialog box in RFEM)
Extreme values of internal forces
LC / CO / RC
This column shows the numbers of the load cases, load or result combinations that are governing for
the respective designs.
Reinforcement Area
For each reinforcement type, column E informs about the maximum reinforcement areas required for
the ultimate limit state design.
The Units of the reinforcements shown in column F can be adjusted with the menu option
Settings Units and Decimal Places.

The dialog box described in chapter 8.3 opens.
Error Message or Note

The final column indicates non-designable situations or notes referring to design issues. The numbers
are explained in the status bar.
Use the button shown on the left to view all [Messages] of the current design case.
Figure 5.4 Error Messages or Notes to Design Process dialog box
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5.1.2 Required Reinforcement by Set of Members
Figure 5.5 Window 2.2 Required Reinforcement by Set of Members
This window lists the maximum reinforcement areas that are required for each of the designed sets of
members. The columns are described in detail in chapter 5.1.1 .
5.1.3 Required Reinforcement by Member
Figure 5.6 Window 2.3 Required Reinforcement by Member
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The maximum reinforcement areas are sorted by members. In case of tapered members, the table
shows the cross-section descriptions available for the member start and end.
5.1.4 Required Reinforcement by x-Location
Figure 5.7 Window 2.4 Required Reinforcement by x-Location
This table shows the required reinforcement areas including detailed results sorted by x-location for
each member:
Start and end node

Locations of discontinuity are indicated separately.
The window provides the option to specifically access information about the design results. This way,
you can check, for example, the required shear reinforcement with related details for a particular
member location (designed location).
The individual columns are described in chapter 5.1.1 .
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5.1.5 Required Reinforcement Not Designable
Figure 5.8 Window 2.5 Required Reinforcement Not Designable
This window is only displayed if the program has detected non-designable situations or any other
problems during the calculation. The error messages are sorted by members and x-locations.
The number of the Error Message indicated in column G is described by comments in the footer.
Use the [Messages] button to display all issues that have occurred in the design process.
Click the [All] button in the dialog box to get a list of all messages available in RF-CONCRETE
Members.
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5.2 Provided Reinforcement

The results windows 3.1 to 3.4 are displayed if the Design the provided reinforcement option has been
activated in window 1.6 Reinforcement and if no non-designable situations have been found (see
chapter 5.1.5 ). Serviceability limit state designs and nonlinear calculations also require a
reinforcement proposal, that is, a provided reinforcement.
By using the specifications of window 1.6, RF-CONCRETE Members determines a proposal for the
layout of the longitudinal and shear reinforcement. The program tries to cover the required
reinforcement, taking into account the parameters (specified rebar diameters, possible number of
reinforcement layers, curtailment, type of anchorage) with the least possible amount of rebars and
reinforcement areas.
The provided reinforcement can be edited in the Provided Reinforcement windows: Diameter, number,
position, and length of the reinforcement items can be adjusted individually.
5.2.1 Provided Longitudinal Reinforcement
Figure 5.10 Window 3.1 Provided Longitudinal Reinforcement
The longitudinal reinforcement to be inserted is arranged by Items (reinforcement sets) and sorted by
members and sets of members.
Below the table you can see the reinforcement represented graphically with item members. The current
item (row selected in upper part where pointer is placed) is highlighted in red. Modifications to the
parameters in the table are immediately displayed in the graphic. The buttons for controlling the
reinforcement graphic are described in chapter 6.1 .
The reinforcement proposal also considers structural regulations. According to EN 1992-1-1, 9.2.1.2,
for example, a minimum reinforcement on supports assumed to be hinged must be arranged in such a
way that it covers at least 25 % of the maximum adjacent moment of span and is available over the
0.25-fold of the length of the final span (values for German National Annex).
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Item No.
The results are listed by Items which have the same properties (diameter, length).
The items of all members and sets of members are summarized in the 3.4 Steel Schedule window.
Reinforcement Position
This column indicates the position of the reinforcement in the cross-section:
basic reinforcement -z (top)

basic reinforcement +z (bottom)
-z (top)
+z (bottom)
in corners
all round
secondary
RF-CONCRETE Members considers the specifications set in the Reinforcement Layout tab of window
1.6 Reinforcement for the reinforcement's arrangement (see chapter 3.6.4 ).
No. of Bars
The number of rebars of an item can be edited: Click into the table cell to open the edit dialog box
with the button.
Figure 5.11 Longitudinal Reinforcement - Coordinates dialog box
The Number of rebars can be changed by using the spin buttons or by directly entering a number. In
the section below, you can adjust the position of the members in the individual input rows.
The position of a rebar is defined by means of its Bar Coordinates: The coordinates y and z determine
the global distance from the cross-section's centroid. The angle β describes the inclination against the
longitudinal member axis for the anchorage types "Hook" and "Bend". For example, a Hook Rotation
about the angle β = 90° results in a downward rotation (i.e. in direction +z) for the top reinforcement;
the angle β = 270° rotates the anchorage end of the bottom reinforcement upwards. For the "Straight"
anchorage type, column C is of no importance.
In order to delete the reinforcement of a row, clear the Place rebars evenly check box, which enables
the [Delete] button.
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ds
The rebar diameters affect the calculation of the inner lever arm of forces as well as the number of
rebars per position. Use the list to change the rebar diameter for the current item number.
As
Column E lists the respective total reinforcement area resulting from the number of rebars and the
diameter.
Length
The total length of a representative rebar is shown for each position. The value is composed of the
required rebar length and the lengths of anchorage at both member ends. It cannot be edited here.
x-Location from / to
The values represent the mathematical start and end positions of the rebars. They refer to the member's
start node given in RFEM (x = 0). When the program determines the dimensions, it takes the support
conditions and the anchorage lengths l1 and l2 into account.
The values cannot be modified in both columns. This is only possible with the [Edit Reinforcement]
button, which is available above the graphic (see Figure 5.10 and Figure 5.13 ).
Anchorage
The anchorage lengths of the provided reinforcement can be changed using the list. The Details option
opens the following edit dialog box.
Figure 5.12 Anchorages dialog box
The dialog box manages the parameters of the Anchorage on Start and on End of the rebar.
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You can adjust the Anchorage type and the Bond type via the lists. The anchorage type is described in
chapter 3.6.1 . RF-CONCRETE Members automatically recognizes the bond conditions that result
from the cross-section geometry and the rebar position. It is also possible to enter user-defined
specifications. Figure 8.2 in EN 1992-1-1, 8.4.2 describes good and poor bond conditions.
The Anchorage length l1 is determined with equation (8.4) according to EN 1992-1-1, 8.4.4 (1)
considering Table 8.2. It cannot be modified.
The Anchorage length l2 for hooks and bends should be at least 5 dS according to EN 1992-1-1,
8.4.1 (2).
The required Bending diameter dbr is specified according to EN 1992-1-1, Table 8.1.
The entire anchorage length Σ for each rebar end results from the individual portions.
Weight
This column shows the total weight of the contained rebars for each position.
Notes
If a footer is indicated in the final column, the reason is a special condition. The numbers are explained
in the status bar.
To access all [Messages] for the provided reinforcement, use the corresponding button. The Error
Messages or Notes to Design Process dialog box appears (see Figure 5.4 ).
Editing the reinforcement proposal

In the graphic zone of the window, the longitudinal reinforcement is represented by item members. The
current reinforcement item (row in upper table where pointer is placed) is highlighted in red. Clicking
the [Edit Reinforcement] button above the graphic opens the edit dialog box for the selected item.
Figure 5.13 Edit Longitudinal Reinforcement dialog box
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This dialog box summarizes the reinforcement parameters already described above. Use the dialog
box to control or, if necessary, adjust the specifications for Location, Bar Positioning, Reinforcement
Diameter, and Anchorages.
After modifying parameters, the designs must be calculated again with the new reinforcement. So,
when leaving window 3.1, a query appears that asks if you want to recalculate the safety.
Figure 5.14 Query when leaving window 3.1
An exception exists for the results of nonlinear analyses: They are generally deleted so that a manual
[Calculation] is required.
A modified reinforcement proposal can be stored as a template with the [Save] button. In the following
dialog box, the Name of the Reinforcement Template must be entered.
Figure 5.15 Save Provided Reinforcement dialog box
Using these templates, you can reset the user-defined reinforcement when the design specifications
have been changed in window 1.6. The changes are not lost if RF-CONCRETE Members creates a
new provided reinforcement.
The possibility to import reinforcement templates is described in chapter 3.6 (see Figure 3.25 ).
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5.2.2 Provided Shear Reinforcement
Figure 5.16 Window 3.2 Provided Shear Reinforcement
The shear reinforcement to be inserted is arranged by Items (reinforcement sets) and sorted by
members and sets of members.
The reinforcement is represented graphically below the table. The current item (row selected in upper
part where pointer is placed) is highlighted in red. The graphic to the right shows the position stirrup,
including dimensioning. Modifications to the parameters in the table will be updated in the graphic.
The buttons for controlling the reinforcement graphic are described in chapter 6.1 .
The reinforcement proposal also considers structural regulations. EN 1992-1-1, 9.2.2 (6), for example,
recommends a maximum spacing of sl,max = 0.75 d for vertical links. Table NA 9.1 of the National
Annex for Germany also allows for reduced longitudinal spacings depending on the shear force ratio
and the concrete strength.
Section
The sections indicated in this table divide the shear reinforcement into zones with the same diameters
and spacings (see also chapter 3.6.2 ). They are defined in columns F and G where they can be
adjusted, if necessary (see below).
Item No.
The results are listed by Items, each having the same properties (diameter, spacing).
The items of all members and sets of members are summarized in window 3.4 Steel Schedule.
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No. of Stirrups
RF-CONCRETE Members considers the user specifications of the Stirrups tab in window 1.6
Reinforcement (see chapter 3.6.2 ) when determining the shear reinforcement.
The link number can be modified quickly: After clicking into a cell, you can enter another value. The
link spacing in column H will be converted automatically.
ds
The reinforcement proposal uses the specifications of the Stirrups tab in window 1.6 Reinforcement.
Use the list to change the rebar diameter in the current section.
Length
Column E shows the length of the link zone for each section. It is determined by the start and end
locations x and cannot be edited in this column. This is only possible with the two subsequent table
columns or the [Edit Reinforcement] button (see Figure 5.16 and Figure 5.17 ).
x-Location from / to
The values represent the start and end positions of the reinforcement section. They refer to the
member's start node given in RFEM (x = 0). The entries in both columns can be edited so that the zone
limits can be shifted by modifying the values.
You can subdivide a zone as follows: In column F or G, enter a new location x which is between both
column values. Thus, a new link zone is automatically created.
Spacing sli
RF-CONCRETE Members considers the specifications of the Stirrups tab in window 1.6 Reinforcement
(see chapter 3.6.2 ) when determining the link spacings. The values in this column can be edited.
When changing a spacing manually, the number of links in column C are automatically adjusted. The
exact link spacing, however, is then calculated on the basis of an integer amount of links.
Number of Sections
The links' sections are based on the specifications of the Stirrups tab in window 1.6 Reinforcement (see
chapter 3.6.2 ). The number of sections can be changed by using the list.
Weight
This column shows the total weight of stirrups for each link section.
Notes
If a footer is indicated in the final column, a special condition is the reason. The numbers are explained
in the status bar.
To access all [Messages] for the provided reinforcement, use the corresponding button. The Error
Messages or Notes to Design Process dialog box appears (see Figure 5.4 ).
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Editing the reinforcement proposal

The graphic in the lower part of this window represents the shear reinforcement on the member or set
of members. The current reinforcement section (i.e. the row in the upper table where the pointer is
placed) is highlighted in red. Clicking the [Edit Reinforcement] button above the graphic opens the
dialog box for editing the selected link section.
Figure 5.17 Edit Shear Reinforcement dialog box
This dialog box summarizes the reinforcement parameters already described above. Use the dialog
box to control or, if necessary, adjust the specifications for Location, Stirrup Dimensions, and Stirrup
Parameters.
After modifying parameters, the designs must be calculated again with the new reinforcement. So,
when leaving window 3.2, a query appears that asks if you want to recalculate the safety (see Figure
5.14 ).
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5.2.3 Provided Reinforcement by x-Location
This window provides a list with reinforcement areas sorted by x-location including notes about design
criteria. In case of a recalculation after modifying the reinforcement in windows 3.1 and 3.2, the results
will be updated.
Figure 5.18 Window 3.3 Provided Reinforcement by x-Location
The table in the upper part of this window shows the longitudinal and shear reinforcement areas at the
individual member locations. The lower part of the window lists all Detailed Results for the table row
selected above.
Location x
The provided reinforcement areas are sorted by x-location for each member:
Start and end node

In case of reinforcements by curtailment, two identical x-locations with both reinforcement values
appear on the zone limit.
As,-z (top)
This value represents the reinforcement area of the provided top longitudinal reinforcement.
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As,+z (bottom)
This value represents the reinforcement area of the provided bottom longitudinal reinforcement.
As,total
The provided total longitudinal reinforcement is determined from the values of columns B and C.
as,stirrup
This column shows the area of the provided shear reinforcement.
Notes
The meaning of the footers is explained in the status bar.
The Detailed Results allow you to check the designs specifically. The design details refer to the
x-location selected in the table above. They are updated automatically when clicking into another table
row.
The detailed results also provide information about the percentages of reinforcement and the safeties
of the selected reinforcement, that is, the ratio of provided to required reinforcement. The safety of the
longitudinal reinforcement is designed with an increased moment, taking the global offset into account.
5.2.4 Steel Schedule
Window 3.4 lists the scheduled rebars by items. The table cannot be edited.
Figure 5.19 Window 3.4 Steel Schedule
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Item No.
The rebars are listed by Items that have the same properties (diameter, length, type of
anchorage, etc.).
The item numbers are not identical to the numbers of windows 3.1 and 3.2.
Reinforcement Type
This column indicates if the reinforcement is a Longitudinal or a As,Stirrup reinforcement.
ds
Column C informs about the used rebar diameters.
Surface
Column D shows the surface type of the reinforcing steel, which can be Ribbed or Plain.
No. of Bars
Here, you can see the number of similar rebars available in each item.
Length
The total length of a representative rebar is shown for each position.
Anchorage Type Start / End

Both columns inform about the types of anchorage at the start and end of the rebars (No anchorage,
Straight, Hook, etc.).
Bending Diameter
The bending diameter dbr is indicated for stirrups and hooks.
Weight
This column shows the total weight of the contained rebars for each position.
Total
At the end of the steel schedule, the total number of rebars as well as the weight of the total required
reinforcing steel is shown. The sums are determined from the values of the items above.
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5.3 Serviceability Limit State Design

The results windows 4.1 to 4.4 are displayed if the design for the Serviceability Limit State has been set
in window 1.1 (see chapter 3.1.2 ).
The serviceability limit state designs are performed with the reinforcement layout available as Provided
Reinforcement in windows 3.1 and 3.2.
5.3.1 Serviceability Check by Cross-Section
The upper part of the window presents a summary of the governing serviceability limit state designs.
The lower part shows the Detailed Results of the current member (row selected in table above) with all
design-relevant parameters. You can expand or reduce the chapters by clicking [+] and [-].
Figure 5.20 Window 4.1 Serviceability Check by Cross-Section
The designs are sorted by cross-sections. The table shows the most unfavorable values of the criteria to
be considered for the serviceability limit state design. They are based on the reinforcement groups'
parameters for crack width control (see chapter 3.6.7 ), the provided reinforcement, and the internal
forces for the serviceability limit state.
Generally, only one of the criteria lim ds, lim sl, or wk must be fulfilled for the crack width design.
Clause 7.2 of EN 1992-1-1 describes the conditions under which the stresses shall be limited. This
means that not all design ratios shown in window 4.1 have to be less than 1 in order to fulfill the
serviceability limit state design!
Member No.
For each cross-section, the column shows the numbers of the members whose result values (column E)
or design ratios (column H) are greatest. Use the [Sort] button to control the reference.
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Location x
The column shows the x-location on the member where the most unfavorable values or design ratios
occur. The distances refer to the start nodes of the members.
Loading
The column lists the numbers of the governing load cases, load and result combinations.
Type
Column D indicates the criteria to be considered for the serviceability limit state design. Depending on
the settings in the Serviceability tab of window 1.6 Reinforcement, up to seven design types are
displayed.
uz,local
This is the absolute value of the deflection available in the direction of the local member axis z.
The allowable relative deformations are managed in window 1.7 Deflection Data (see chapter 3.7 ).
σc
This parameter describes the concrete stresses in the serviceability limit state.
σs
The stresses in the reinforcement for a cracked tensile zone are determined as the product of steel
strain and modulus of elasticity:
s s e s E s
As,min
The minimum area of the rebar reinforcement according to EN 1992-1-1, 7.3.2, Eq. (7.1) is:
A ct
A smin k c k f cteff
s s
where
kc : factor for considering stress distribution in cross-section before first crack formation
k : factor for considering self-equilibrating stresses distributed nonlinearly over cross-section
fct, eff : mean value of effective concrete tensile strength when cracks occur
Act : tension zone of concrete in uncracked state in case of first crack formation
σs : allowable steel stress directly after crack formation (depending on limit diameter or maximum
value of rebar spacings, where applicable)
lim ds
According to the simplified design method described in EN 1992-1-1, 7.3.3, the limit diameters of the
reinforcing steel are limited to the dimensions stated in Table 7.2 (see Figure 2.3 ).
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lim sl
According to the simplified design method described in EN 1992-1-1, 7.3.3, the allowable bar
spacings are limited to the maximum values stated in Table 7.3 (see Figure 2.4 ).
wk
The characteristic crack width is determined according to EN 1992-1-1, 7.3.4, Eq. (7.8) as follows:
w k s rmax
e sm e cm
where
sr,max : maximum crack spacing in final crack state (see chapter 2.2.4 )
εsm : mean strain of reinforcement considering contribution of concrete to tension between cracks
εcm : mean strain of concrete between cracks
Existing Value
This column displays the values that are governing for each cross-section for the serviceability limit state
designs.
Design Limit Value

The limit values are determined from the standard specifications and the load situation. The
determination of limit values is described in chapter 2.2 .
Capacity
Column H shows the ratio of existing value (column E) to limit value (column F). Ratios greater than 1
mean that the design criterion is not fulfilled. The length of the colored bar represents the design ratio
graphically.
Note
The final column indicates design problems or shows notes referring to difficulties that occurred during
the analysis. The numbers are explained in the status bar.
To see all [Messages], use the button shown on the left. The Error Messages or Notes to Design
Process dialog box appears.
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The buttons below the table have the following functions:
Button Description Function
Sort results Sorts results by maximum ratios (column H) or maximum

values (column E)
Exceeding Displays only rows with a ratio greater than 1
Select member Allows for graphical selection of member to display its

results in the table
Color bars Displays or hides the colored relation scales
View mode Jumps to RFEM work window to change the view
Table 5.2 Buttons in result windows 4.1 to 4.4
5.3.2 Serviceability Check by Set of Members
Figure 5.22 Window 4.2 Serviceability Check by Set of Members
This window lists the governing serviceability limit state designs for each of the designed sets of
members. The columns are described in detail in chapter 5.3.1 .
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5.3.3 Serviceability Check by Member
Figure 5.23 Window 4.3 Serviceability Check by Member
In this window, the results of the SLS designs (see chapter 5.3.1 ) are sorted by members.
5.3.4 Serviceability Check by x-Location
Figure 5.24 Window 4.4 Serviceability Check by x-Location
This window lists the individual designs (see chapter 5.3.1 ) by x-locations.
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5.4 Fire Resistance Design

The results windows 5.1 to 5.4 are displayed if the design of the Fire Resistance was enabled in
window 1.1 (see chapter 3.1.4 ).
The fire resistance design is performed with the reinforcement layout available as Provided
Reinforcement in windows 3.1 and 3.2.
5.4.1 Fire Resistance Design by Cross-Section
Figure 5.25 Window 5.1 Fire Resistance Design by Cross-section
This overview shows the smallest safeties and greatest ratios of the individual cross-sections in the case
of fire. They result from the parameters of the reinforcement groups defined for the fire designs (see
chapter 3.1.4 ), the provided reinforcement, and the internal forces of the relevant actions.
The lower part of the window lists all Detailed Results for the table row selected above. These design
details allow for a specific evaluation of the results. They are updated when clicking into a different
table row.
For information on the theoretical background of the fire protection design, see chapter 2.3 .
Type
The safeties and ratios are listed by cross-sections. In addition to the designs for Bending, the table
shows the safeties for Shear Force and Torsion, provided that these designs have been activated in the
Fire Resistance tab of window 1.6 Reinforcement (see Figure 3.48 ).
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Member No.
The column displays the numbers of the members that have the maximum design ratios.
Location x
The column shows the x-location on the member that is governing for the fire design. The following
RFEM member locations x are used for the table output:
Start and end node

Loading
Column D shows the numbers of the load cases, as well as load and result combinations that are
governing for the respective designs.
Safety γ
Column E provides information about the minimum safety factors γ for each type of design. If the safety
is less than 1, the fire resistance design is not fulfilled. The results row is highlighted in red.
Capacity 1 / γ
The entries in this column represent the safeties' reciprocal values (column E). This way, you can quickly
evaluate, which resources are available in the cross-section until the limit value 1 is reached.
The Detailed Results provides information about how the provided safeties are determined from the
ratio of ultimate internal force in case of fire to effective internal force.
Figure 5.26 Detailed Results window section with design details

The final column indicates non-designable situations or notes referring to design issues. The numbers
are explained in the status bar. Use the [Messages] button to see all notes of the current design case.
Temperature course
To the right of the table, the equivalent cross-section used for the fire resistance design is graphically
displayed. The damaged zone aZ is highlighted in red (cf. Figure 2.7 ).
To look at the distribution of temperature in the current cross-section, click the button below the
graphic. The following dialog box appears.
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Figure 5.27 Temperature Course dialog box
The table describes the Temperature Distribution in Zone Center (see chapter 2.3.2 ). The graphic
shows the Temperature Course in Equivalent Wall according to EN 1992-1-2, Annex A.
5.4.2 Fire Resistance Design by Set of Members
Figure 5.28 Window 5.2 Fire Resistance Design by Set of Members
If sets of members have been selected for design, this window shows the fire resistance designs sorted
by sets of members. The columns are described in detail in chapter 5.4.1 .
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5.4.3 Fire Resistance Design by Member
Figure 5.29 Window 5.3 Fire Resistance Design by Member
This window shows the results output of the fire protection designs listed by members.
5.4.4 Fire Resistance Design by x-Location
Figure 5.30 Window 5.4 Fire Resistance Design by x-Location
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This results window displays the fire protection designs sorted by x-locations in detail.
5.4.5 Fire Resistance Design Not Designable
Figure 5.31 Window 5.5 Fire Resistance Design Not Designable
This window is only displayed if the program has detected failed designs or any other problems in the
fire design process. The error messages are sorted by members and x-locations.
The number of the Error Message indicated in column G is described by comments in the footer.
Use the [Messages] button to display all issues that have occurred in the design process for the fire
situation.
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5.5 Nonlinear Calculation

The results windows 6.1 to 6.4 are only displayed if the Nonlinear calculation option (state II) has
been activated for the ultimate limit state, the serviceability limit state, or the fire resistance design in
window 1.1 General Data (see chapter 3.1 ). Furthermore, there should be no design problems (see
chapter 5.1.5 ).
The designs are performed with the reinforcement available in window 3.1 Provided Longitudinal
Reinforcement.
The theory of nonlinear designs is described in chapter 2.4 .
The results of the nonlinear design are sorted by ultimate limit state, serviceability limit state, and fire
resistance designs. In addition, they are sorted by cross-sections, members, sets of members, and
x-locations in individual windows for each of the mentioned categories. The concept of these windows
corresponds to one of the "usual" serviceability limit state designs (see chapter 5.3.1 ).
5.5.1 Nonlinear Calculation - Ultimate Limit State
Figure 5.33 Window 6.1.1 Ultimate Limit State for Nonlinear Calculation by Cross-Section
The table in the upper part contains the governing safety factors and utilizations determined in the
nonlinear ultimate limit state design for each cross-section, member, or set of members. They result from
the internal forces, the reinforcement parameters, and the specifications set in the Settings for Nonlinear
Calculation dialog box (see Figure 4.4 and Figure 4.6 ).
The lower part lists all Detailed Results for the table row selected above. The design details are
updated when clicking into another row.
With the All load cases check box, you can decide whether to only show the results of the governing
action or (as shown in Figure 5.33 ) the results of all analyzed load cases and combinations.
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Member No.
The safeties and design ratios are listed by cross-sections.
Location x
The x-locations refer to the FE nodes that have been created on the members for the nonlinear
calculation. Use the [Details] button in the Iteration Parameters tab of the Settings for Nonlinear
Calculation dialog box (see Figure 2.30 ) to access the FE Mesh dialog box of RFEM where you can
adjust the FE mesh settings.
Loading
This column displays the numbers of the load cases or load combinations that are governing for the
individual cross-sections, members, or sets of members.
If several load cases or combinations have been designed, it is possible to show the results of all
analyzed actions by selecting the All load cases check box.
Safety γ
The column lists the safety factors γ for each location x. They represent the ratio of ultimate and acting
internal forces.
Rd
g 1
0
Ed
where
N Rd

Rd M yRd design value of loadbearing capacity
M zRd

N Ed

E d M yEd design value of action
M zEd

If the safety factor at any x-location is less than 1, or if no convergence is reached, the ultimate limit
state design is not fulfilled. The entire table is presented in red color.
Capacity 1/γ
The entries in this column represent the safety factors' reciprocal values γ. Thus, you can quickly
evaluate the resources in the cross-section.
The Detailed Results in the lower part of the window (see Figure 5.34 ) provide information about all
design details. They are organized in a tree structure.
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Figure 5.34 Detailed Results window section with details for stress and strain analysis
The detailed results are adjusted to the selected Tension Stiffening Approach (see Figure 4.6 ).

The final column refers to failed designs or specific situations occurring in the course of the design (e.g.
when the maximum number of iterations was reached in the final load step of the calculation without
fulfilling the break-off criterion). The numbers are explained in the status bar.
Use the [Messages] button to display all issues that have occurred in the nonlinear calculation.
5.5.2 Nonlinear Calculation - Serviceability
Figure 5.35 Window 6.2.3 Serviceability Limit State for Nonlinear Calculation by Member
The table in the upper part shows the deformations and crack widths that have been determined as
governing in the nonlinear serviceability limit state design.
The lower part lists all Detailed Results for the table row selected above.
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With the All load cases check box, you can decide whether to only show the deformations and crack
widths of the governing action or (as shown in Figure 5.35 ) the results of all analyzed load cases
and combinations.
Member No.
The deformations and crack widths are sorted by members.
Location x
The x-locations refer to the FE nodes that have been created on the members for the nonlinear
calculation. Use the [Details] button in the Iteration Parameters tab of the Settings for Nonlinear
Calculation dialog box (see Figure 2.30 ) to access the FE Mesh dialog box of RFEM where you can
adjust the FE mesh settings.
Loading
This column displays the numbers of the load cases or load combinations that are governing for the
individual cross-sections, members, or sets of members.
If several load cases or combinations have been designed, it is possible to show the results of all
analyzed actions by selecting the All load cases check box.
Type
ug
The column lists the resulting displacements ug on the individual member locations. The total
displacement is related to the global XYZ-coordinate system.
The deformation components in the direction of the global axes X, Y, and Z can be seen among the
detailed results in the Global Nodal Deformations category. The components in the direction of the
local member axes x, y, and z can be found in the Local Nodal Deformations category.
wk
In this column, the characteristic crack widths according to EN 1992-1-1, 7.3.4, Eq. (7.8) are
indicated (see chapter 2.2.4 ). For the determination of crack spacing and strains, the program uses
the internal forces of the nonlinear calculation.
Existing Value
This column displays the values that are governing for the deformation and crack width analyses.
The Detailed Results in the lower part of the window (see Figure 5.36 ) provide information about all
design details. They are organized in a tree structure.
Figure 5.36 Detailed Results window section with details for cross-sectional rigidities and deformations
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5.5.3 Nonlinear Calculation - Fire Resistance
Figure 5.37 Window 6.3.4 Fire Resistance for Nonlinear Calculation by x-Location
The window shows the governing safety factors and design ratios of the nonlinear fire resistance
design. They result from the internal forces for the fire situation, the reinforcement parameters, and the
specifications set in the Settings for Nonlinear Calculation dialog box (see Figure 4.4 and Figure
4.6 ).
The lower part lists all Detailed Results for the table row selected above.
The table columns correspond to the ones of window 6.1.1. They are described in chapter 5.5.1 .
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5.5.4 Nonlinear Calculation - Design Details
Figure 5.38 Window 6.4 Design Details
In the final window, you can check the course of the nonlinear calculation. The output is partitioned
into two main parts.
Convergence settings
This part lists the general specifications for the nonlinear calculation (see explanations to Figure
2.30 ).
Performance of convergence
The convergence behavior is an important criterion for evaluating the results. The iteration process
allows conclusions to be drawn on the quality of the nonlinear calculation. In the table, you can see
the break criteria of the iteration steps for each load increment. The output is displayed separately for
the ultimate limit state, the Serviceability limit state, and the Fire Resistance Design.
In the majority of cases, a nonlinear calculation converges because the deviations concerning internal
forces, stiffnesses, and deformations are steadily decreasing. This effect can be checked by means of
the values ε1 and ε2 in successive iterations: Hence, peaks or increasing deviations (in case of stability
analyses, for example) are easy to understand.
Looking at the convergence behavior, you can also see how the parameters can be influenced to
control the calculation (see chapter 2.4.9 ).
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6 Results Evaluation RF-CONCRETE Members - User Manual
6 Results Evaluation
The results of the design can be evaluated and adjusted in different ways. The results windows are
described in detail in chapter 5 . Chapter 6 describes the graphical evaluation of results and the
possibilities for modifying the reinforcement proposal.
6.1 Reinforcement Proposal

The results windows 3.1 and 3.2 show how to cover the required reinforcement areas with rebars to
fulfill, for example, the serviceability limit state design. The reinforcement proposal is graphically
displayed in the lower part of windows 3.1 Provided Longitudinal Reinforcement and 3.2 Provided
Shear Reinforcement in the form of a 3D drawing (see Figure 5.10 and Figure 5.16 ).
Figure 6.1 Reinforcement drawing in window 3.1 Provided Longitudinal Reinforcement
The current item (row selected in table above, in which the pointer is placed) is highlighted in red. The
graphic allows you to see and, if necessary, adjust the position and arrangement of the individual item
members.
The graphic window provides mouse functions for zooming, rotating, and shifting the representation
familiar from RFEM. By scrolling the wheel button you can maximize or minimize the model. By holding
down the wheel button you can shift the reinforcement graphic. When you additionally hold down the
[Ctrl] key, you can rotate the graphic (also possible with wheel button and by holding down the right
mouse button). The pointer symbols indicate the selected function.
Figure 6.2 3D representation of reinforcement cage
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The buttons have the following functions:
Button Description Function
Print Opens the Graphic Printout dialog box

Figure 7.5
Move, zoom, rotate Allows for shifting, zooming, and rotating the
reinforcement graphic with the mouse
Zoom Allows for zooming by drawing a window
Whole model Resets to full view
Previous view Sets the previous view
View in X / -Y / Z Sets the view in direction of axes X and Z, or

against axis Y
Isometric view Shows the object in 3D
Perspective view Shows reinforcement graphic in perspective view

(can be combined with all view types)
Line model Displays or hides the cross-section outlines in line

model
Column reinforcement in perspective view
Solid model Turns the concrete represented in cross-section on

and off
Supports Displays or hides the supports
Top reinforcement Displays or hides the top longitudinal reinforcement
Bottom Displays or hides the bottom longitudinal

reinforcement reinforcement
Peripheral Displays or hides the circumferential and the

reinforcement secondary reinforcement
Stirrups Displays or hides the stirrups
Member axis system Controls the display of local member axes x,y,z
Longitudinal Displays or hides the item members of top

reinforcement - top reinforcement
Longitudinal Displays or hides the item members of bottom

reinforcement - reinforcement
bottom
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Shear reinforcement Displays or hides the position stirrups and the link
zone descriptions
Stirrup description Shows stirrup descriptions parallel or perpendicular

to the member
Start of anchorage Displays or hides the anchorage lengths on

member start
End of anchorage Displays or hides the anchorage lengths on

member end
Description Displays or hides the item descriptions in X-view (in

preparation)
Edit reinforcement Opens the Edit Longitudinal Reinforcement (Figure

5.13 ) or Edit Shear Reinforcement (Figure
5.17 ) dialog box.
Numbering Displays or hides the numbering of members and

sets of members
Table 6.1 Buttons in results windows 3.1 and 3.2
Edit reinforcement
The [Edit Reinforcement] button selected in Figure 6.1 opens the edit dialog box of the current
reinforcement item. The dialog box is shown in Figure 5.13 and Figure 5.17 . It can be used to
check and, if necessary, modify the parameters of the longitudinal or shear reinforcement (e.g.
reinforcement layout, rebar diameters, anchorages).
You can also access the edit dialog boxes in the shortcut menu of the marked item members or
reinforcements.
Figure 6.3 Shortcut menu of reinforcement
The following article describes how to edit a reinforcement proposal:

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Complete reinforcement
Using the shortcut menu shown in Figure 6.3 , you can also Insert a new reinforcement item. The
same is possible in the table of window 3.1 (see shortcut menu shown on the left).
The Edit Longitudinal Reinforcement dialog box appears. The next Item No. is preset. Now, you can
define number and position of the rebars, as well as diameter and anchorage lengths of the
Shortcut menu of table
reinforcement. After clicking [OK], the new reinforcement item is added to the table and the graphic.
More editing options are described in the following chapter.
Save reinforcement
A modified reinforcement can be saved as a template by using the [Save] table button. You have to
enter the Name of the Reinforcement Template in the Save Provided Reinforcement dialog box (see
Figure 5.15 ).
Use this template to preset the user-defined reinforcement configuration when the design specifications
in window 1.6 are changed. The changes are not lost if RF-CONCRETE Members creates a new
provided reinforcement.
Importing reinforcement templates is described in chapter 3.6 (see Figure 3.25 ).
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6.2 3D Rendering of Reinforcement

The [3D-Rendering] button is available in the windows 3.1 Provided Longitudinal Reinforcement and
3.2 Provided Shear Reinforcement, providing the possibility to display the reinforcement of the selected
member photo-realistically and modify it, if required.
It is also possible to access the 3D rendering by double-clicking the reinforcement in the graphical
area of windows 3.1 and 3.2.
Figure 6.4 3D rendering of provided longitudinal and shear reinforcement
You can control the graphic in the View menu, or by using the corresponding buttons (see Table
6.1 ). In addition, you can use the mouse functions described in chapter 6.1 .
Copy reinforcement
The graphic window provides the option to copy reinforcements by item. This way, it is possible, for
example, to quickly create new reinforcement layers from existing rebars or to generate secondary
reinforcements.
First, select the reinforcement or item description that you want to copy. Then, right-click the
red-highlighted object to open the shortcut menu of the reinforcement (see figure on the left). The Copy
option opens the Move or Copy dialog box (see Figure 6.5 ).
Shortcut menu of reinforcement
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Figure 6.5 Reinforcement item created via Copy shortcut menu
In the dialog box, you can specify the Number of copies and the displacement vector in the direction
of the global axes X, Y, and Z.
After clicking [OK], a new reinforcement item (or several, if applicable) is created.
Figure 6.6 Copied reinforcement item
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Windows display
The Window menu provides various ways to display the reinforcement in several windows. For spatial
control, we recommend using the function
Window Isometric and 3 Views.

The 3D rendering window is divided as follows.
Figure 6.7 Isometric and 3 Views window display
In addition to the isometric view shown in the main window, the view in the longitudinal direction X, the
lateral view in -Y, and the top view in Z are displayed.
If changes are made in one window, the views in the other windows are updated automatically.
With the [Print] button you can send the current graphic directly to the printer. You can also transfer it
to the printout report or the clipboard. Printing several windows is not possible.
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6.3 Results on RFEM Model

You can also evaluate the design results in the RFEM work window.
6.3.1 Background Graphic and View Mode
The RFEM work window in the background is useful when you want to find the position of a particular
member in the model: The member selected in the results window of RF-CONCRETE Members is
indicated by an arrow in the background graphic; the x-location is highlighted in the selection color.
Figure 6.8 Indication of member and current x-location in RFEM model
If the background graphic does not display any results of RF-CONCRETE Members, you can use the
[Jump to graphic] button to activate view mode: The program hides the module window so that you
can set the design case in the RFEM toolbar and activate the results with the button.
The view mode provides all functions of the View menu, for example zooming, moving, or rotating the
model view so that you can adjust the representation accordingly.
Click [Back] to return to RF-CONCRETE Members.
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6.3.2 RFEM Work Window
You can also check the reinforcements and detailed results graphically on the RFEM model: Click the
[Graphics] button to exit the design module. The work window of RFEM will subsequently show all
design results such as the internal forces of a load case.
You can set the design cases in the drop-down list of the RFEM menu bar.
Results navigator
The Results navigator is tailored to the designs of the RF-CONCRETE Members add-on module: You
can select the design results for the ultimate and the serviceability limit state designs, the fire resistance
design, and the nonlinear calculation including all intermediate results.
Figure 6.9 Results navigator and panel for RF-CONCRETE Members
The Results navigator allows you to display several reinforcement types or designs at the same time.
This way you can graphically compare the required longitudinal reinforcement with the provided
longitudinal reinforcement, for example. The panel is synchronized with the selected types of results.
An example of graphical documentation for shear analysis can be found in the following article: https:/
/www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/support/knowledge-base/000715
This article shows how the curtailment or reinforcement covering lines can be displayed: https://
www.dlubal.com/en-US/support-and-learning/support/knowledge-base/001482
Due to the multiple selection and automatic color assignment, the display options for member results in
the Display navigator are without effect.
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The Results navigator also allows for graphically evaluating the design details of nonlinear analyses.
Figure 6.10 Graphical output of nonlinear design results
With the Reinforcement - Rendering option in the navigator, it is possible to display the rebars and
stirrups in the RFEM work window.
Figure 6.11 3D rendering of reinforcement in RFEM
As is usual in RFEM, you can use the [Print Graphic] button to send the graphics to the printer or
transfer them to the printout report (see chapter 7.2 ).
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Panel
The panel with the usual control options is also available for the results evaluation. The functions are
described in chapter 3.4.6 of the RFEM manual.
In the second tab of the panel, you can set the Display Factors for the reinforcements, stresses, strains,
or load-bearing capacities.
The Filter panel tab allows you to select the results of particular members for display. This function is
Tab Factors
Figure 6.12 Display of selected members via Filter tab
The figure above shows the reinforcement of a building's concrete columns. The remaining members
are shown in the model but are displayed without reinforcement.
To return to the add-on module, click the [RF-CONCRETE Members] button in the panel.
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6.4 Result Diagrams

To access the result diagrams in the RFEM work window, select
Results Result Diagrams for Selected Members

in the menu or use the corresponding button in the RFEM toolbar.
A window opens showing the distribution of reinforcement areas and detailed results on the selected
member or set of members.
Figure 6.13 Result Diagram on Member dialog box
In the navigator on the left, you can select the reinforcements and detailed results. With the lists in the
toolbar you can switch between the design cases of RF-CONCRETE Members, as well as members or
sets of members.
In chapter 9.5 of the RFEM manual, you can find a detailed description of the Result Diagram on
Member dialog box (i.a. with the smoothing options).
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7 Printout RF-CONCRETE Members - User Manual
7 Printout
7.1 Printout Report

RFEM creates a printout report for the data of RF-CONCRETE Members, which can be complemented
by graphics and descriptions. With the selection options in the printout report you can determine the
design module's data that appears in the printout.
Figure 7.1 Design results in printout report
The reinforcement graphics of windows 3.1 and 3.2 are preset in the printout report (see Figure
7.1 ).
The printout report is described in detail in the RFEM manual. Chapter 10.1.3.5 Selecting Data of
Add-on Modules explains how to prepare the input and output data of the add-on modules for the
printout.
The Printout Report Selection dialog box provides various options for selecting the input and output
data (see Figure 7.2 ). Thus, the reinforcements as well as the member results and detailed results
can be individually prepared for documentation.
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Figure 7.2 Printout Report Selection dialog box, Reinforcement tab
For large structural systems with many design cases, it is recommended to split the data into several
printout reports, thus allowing for a clearly arranged overview.
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7.2 Graphic Printout

In RFEM, you can transfer every image shown in the work window to the printout report or send it
directly to a printer. Hence, you can also prepare the reinforcements and design criteria shown on the
RFEM model for the printout report.
Printing graphics is described in chapter 10.2 of the RFEM manual.
To print the current reinforcement graphic, select
File Print Graphic
on the menu or use the corresponding button in the toolbar.
Figure 7.3 [Print Graphic] button in RFEM toolbar
The button is also available in windows 3.1 and 3.2 of RF-CONCRETE Members, as well as in the
3D rendering window (see Figure 6.4 ).
Figure 7.4 [Print] button in window 3.1 of RF-CONCRETE Members
The Graphic Printout dialog box shown in Figure 7.5 appears.
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Figure 7.5 Graphic Printout dialog box, General tab
The dialog box is described in chapter 10.2 of the RFEM manual.
Use the drag-and-drop function to move a graphic within the report to another position.
To retroactively adjust a graphic in the printout report, right-click it in the report navigator. The
Properties option in the shortcut menu opens the Graphic Printout dialog box where you can adjust the
settings.
Figure 7.6 Graphic Printout dialog box, Options tab
Use the Edit option in the shortcut menu to change the view (angle of view, object and value
display, etc.) in the RFEM work window.
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The General tab of the Graphic Printout dialog box provides the option to save the graphic as a 3D
PDF (see Figure 7.5 ). Thus, the reinforcement representations and results graphics can be displayed
interactively even without RFEM.
Figure 7.7 3D PDF from RF-CONCRETE Members
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8 General Functions RF-CONCRETE Members - User Manual
8 General Functions
This chapter describes some menu functions and export options for the design results.
8.1 Design Cases

Design cases allow you to group members and sets of members for the designs, or to design different
variants (e.g. modified materials or reinforcement specifications, nonlinear analysis).
It is no problem to analyze the same member in different design cases.
In RFEM you can set the design cases of RF-CONCRETE Members in the load case list of the toolbar.
Creating a new design case

To create a new design case, select the RF-CONCRETE Members menu item
File New Case.

The following dialog box appears.
Figure 8.1 New RF-CONCRETE Members Case dialog box
In this dialog box, enter an (unassigned) No. for the new design case. A Description makes a selection
in the load case list easier.
After clicking [OK], window 1.1 General Data of RF-CONCRETE Members opens where you can
enter the design data.
Renaming a design case

To change the description of a design case, select the RF-CONCRETE Members menu entry
File Rename Case.

Figure 8.2 Rename RF-CONCRETE Members Case dialog box
In this dialog box, you can specify a different Description as well as a different No. for the design case.
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Copying a design case

To copy the input data of the current design case, select the RF-CONCRETE Members menu item
File Copy Case.

Figure 8.3 Copy RF-CONCRETE Members Case dialog box
Define the No. and, if necessary, a Description for the new case.
Deleting a design case

To delete a design case, select the RF-CONCRETE Members menu entry
File Delete Case.

Figure 8.4 Delete Cases dialog box
You can select the design case in the Available Cases list. To delete the selected case, click [OK].
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8.2 Cross-Section Optimization

As mentioned in chapter 3.3 , RF-CONCRETE Members provides a means of optimizing
cross-sections. In column C of window 1.3 Cross-Sections (see Figure 3.17 ), specify the relevant
cross-section by selecting the check box. The following dialog box appears.
Figure 8.5 Optimization Parameters dialog box of a T-beam
Select check boxes in the Optimize column to specify the parameter(s) you want to modify. This
enables the Minimum and Maximum columns where you can define the parameter's upper and lower
limits. The Increment column controls the interval in which the parameter's magnitude varies during the
optimization process.
The optimization criterion specifies that a Targeted percentage of reinforcement either must not be
exceeded at any location or is an available as average value over the entire member or set of
members. The desired reinforcement ratio can be defined in the input field.
During the optimization process, RF-CONCRETE Members examines which dimensions should be used
in order to still fulfill the design. Please note that the internal forces are not automatically recalculated
with the changed cross-sections (the internal forces may vary significantly due to the changed
stiffnesses in the structural system). In fact, it is up to you to decide when the optimized cross-sections
are transferred to RFEM for recalculation. It is therefore recommended to recalculate the internal forces
with the modified cross-sections after the first optimization and subsequently optimize the cross-sections
once again.
It is also possible to export the modified cross-sections to RFEM: Go to window 1.3 Cross-Sections and
select the menu item
Edit Export Cross-Section to RFEM.

You can also use the shortcut menu of the table row in window 1.3 to export the modified cross-
section.
Before a cross-section is transferred, a query appears that asks if the results from RFEM should be
deleted.
After starting the [Calculation] in RF-CONCRETE Members, the internal forces and designs are
determined in one calculation procedure.
If the cross-section has not yet been exported to RFEM, you can reimport the original Cross-Section
from RFEM by using the corresponding option in the shortcut menu.
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8.3 Units and Decimal Places

The units and decimal places for RFEM and the add-on modules are managed in one dialog box. In
RF-CONCRETE Members, you can open the dialog box for adjusting the units by selecting the menu
entry
Settings Units and Decimal Places.

The following dialog box, familiar from RFEM, appears. RF-CONCRETE Members is preset in the
Program / Module list.
Figure 8.6 Units and Decimal Places dialog box
The settings can be saved as a user profile in order to reuse them in other models. This function is
8.4 Export of Results

The results of RF-CONCRETE Members can also be used in other programs.
Clipboard
To copy cells selected in the results windows to the clipboard, use the key combination [Ctrl]+[C]. To
insert them, for example in a word processing program, press [Ctrl]+[V]. The headers of the table
columns are not transferred.
Printout report
The data of RF-CONCRETE Members can be printed into the printout report (see chapter 7.1 ) where
they can be exported by selecting the menu item
File Export to RTF.

This function is described in chapter 10.1.11 of the RFEM manual.
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MS Excel
RF-CONCRETE Members allows for the direct data export to MS Excel or into the CSV format. To
open the corresponding dialog box, select the RF-CONCRETE Members menu entry
File Export Tables.

The following export dialog box opens.
Figure 8.7 Export of Tables dialog box
When your selection is complete, click [OK] to start the export.
Excel will be started automatically, meaning you do not need to open the program first.
Figure 8.8 Results in Excel
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9 Examples RF-CONCRETE Members - User Manual
9 Examples
9.1 Direct Deformation Analysis

This example describes the analysis for limitation of deformations by direct calculation according to
EN 1992-1-1, clause 7.4.3.
9.1.1 Input Data
system cross-section
Figure 9.1 System, loads, and cross-section
Slab thickness 20 cm
Material Concrete C20/25
Reinforcement steel B 500
Reinforcement As,prov = 4.45 cm2
d = 17 cm
Actions
Self-weight 0.20 ⋅ 25.0 = 5.00 kN/m
Plaster and flooring 1.5 kN/m
gk = 6.50 kN/m
Live load for office 2.00 kN/m
Load of partition walls 1.25 kN/m
qk = 3.25 kN/m
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Maximum moment for quasi-permanent load
Combination factor ψ2 = 0.3 (Live load for office)
Combination factor ψ2 = 1.0 (Load of partition walls)
Quasi-permanent load 6.50 + 0.30 ⋅ 2.00 + 1.0 ⋅ 1.25 = 8.35 kN/m
Maximum moment Mquasi-permanent = 8.35 ⋅ 4.212 / 8 = 18.50 kNm
9.1.2 Initial Values of Deformation Analysis
Parameters
Mean modulus of Ecm = 30 000 MN / m2

elasticity
Mean tensile strength fctm = 2.2 MN/m2
Final creep ratio φ = 1.8 (interior room)
Coefficient of shrinkage εs = −0.5 ‰
Longitudinal reinforcement ratio
As 445 cm2
r 0
002225
e
b d 100 20 cm2
Es 200 000
a e 20
0
Ec 10 000
Effective modulus of elasticity for concrete
E cm 30 000
E ceff 10 000 MNm2
1 j 1 2
0
The influence of creeping is taken into account with the final creep coefficient φ.
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9.1.3 Curvature for Uncracked Sections (State I)
Cross-section values
Depth of concrete compression zone xI
h 20
b h a e A s d A s d 100 20 20
0 4
45
17 4
45 17
2 2
xI 10
28 cm
a e A s A s b h 20 4
45 4
45 100 20
x x I h 10
2820 0
514
k 1 12 5 x 12
a 1r
d 2
0 2
x

h
1 12 514 12
20 10
17
2
05 0 2
002225
0 1
514 06
20
h3 203
I cI k b 1
06 100 70 667 cm4 0
0007067 m4
12 12
I cI 70 667
W cI 7 270
2 cm3
h x I 20 10
28
S I A s
d x I 4
45 28 29
17 10 904 cm3 0
0000299 m3
Curvature due to loading
1 M Ed 0
01850 MNm

0
00262 m1
r
M E ceff I c 10 000 MNm2 0
0007067 m4
Curvature due to shrinkage
1 SI 0
0000299 m3

e cs a 0
0005 20
0 0
00042 m1
r
cs
e Ic 0
0007067 m4
Total curvature
1 1 1

0
00262 0
00042 0
00304 m1
r
tot
I r
M r
cs
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9.1.4 Curvature for Cracked Sections (State II)
Curvature due to loading
When characteristic loads are applied, concrete shows linear elastic behavior. The concrete stress
distributed over the compression zone is assumed to be triangular.
The depth of the concrete compression area can be determined as follows:
2
x r a d
1 1
e
r a e
2
0
0026 20
017 cm
1 1 4
68 cm
0
0026 20
0
The tension stress in the reinforcement is determined with MEd = 18.50 kNm as follows:
M 18
5 103
s 269
60 Nmm 2
s x 0
0468
A s
d
445 104
017

3 3
The curvature in the final crack state is determined as follows:
1 e s 1
346 103

0
010931 m1
r
MII d x 170 46
8
where
s 269 26
e
s
s 1
346 103
Es 200 000
Curvature due to shrinkage
In manual calculations, the curvature for cracked sections (state II) is determined by means of a table
from [12] (see Figure 9.2 ).
As 445 cm2
w a 20
0 0
052 b 1
10
1 e
b d 100 cm 17 cm
1 S II 1 1

e

cs a e cs b 0
0005 1
10 0
00324 m1
r
cs
II
e I II d 0
17 m
Total curvature
1 1 1

0
01093 0
00324 0
01417 m1
r
tot
II r
MII r
cs
II
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Figure 9.2 Calculation table for cracked sections only (state II) from [12]
9.1.5 Determination of Deflection
As described in chapter 2.2.5 , it is possible to determine the probable value of the deformation
according to equation (7.18) of EN 1992-1-1.
Distribution coefficient
The distribution coefficient ζ between state I and state II is determined as follows:
s 2
232 2

87
z 1 b 1 b
s
cr
2 s 1 1

0 0
5
0
63
s 269
26
where
β1 = 1.0 : ribbed steel

β2 = 0.5 : permanent load
The first cracking moment Mcr is:
M cr f ctm W 1 2
2 0
007270 103 16
0 kNm
The stress σs,cr immediately after cracking is determined with Mcr as follows:
M cr 16
0 103
s 232
87 Nmm 2
s
cr x 0
0468
A s
d
4
45 10
4 017
3 3
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Mean curvature
With the distribution coefficient ζ, the mean curvature is determined as follows:
z 1 z 0 01417 630
1 1 1
63 0 1 0 00304 0
01005 m1
rm r II r1
Deformation
Thus, the deflection f in the beam center can be determined as follows:
1 5
f k l 2eff 4
212 m2 0
01005 m1 18
6 mm
rm 48
9.1.6 Results in RF-CONCRETE Members
Some parameters must be defined for the comparative calculation with RF-CONCRETE Members.
In window 1.1 General Data, the governing load case must be selected for design in the Ultimate Limit
State tab and the Serviceability Limit State tab. For the SLS design, the Activate creep and
shrinkage check box must be selected as well.
Figure 9.3 Settings for serviceability limit state design in window 1.1 General Data
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Then, you can directly define the creep coefficient and the shrinkage strain in window 1.3
Cross-Sections.
Figure 9.4 Defining creep coefficient and shrinkage strain in window 1.3 Cross-Sections
In window 1.6 Reinforcement, the reinforcement diameters and concrete cover must be specified as
follows.
Figure 9.5 Defining reinforcement diameters and concrete cover in window 1.6 Reinforcement
If the Deflection Analysis is selected (see figure on the left) in the Serviceability tab of window 1.6
Reinforcement, the additional window 1.7 Deflection Data appears.
Window 1.6, Serviceability tab
Figure 9.6 Defining deformation parameters in window 1.7 Deflection Data
The recommended deflection of ℓ /250 is the default limit value.
The [Calculation] provides the maximum deformation value of 18.9 mm in the center of the member,
confirming the manual calculation. The result is below the limit value of ℓ /250.
Figure 9.7 Window 4.3 Serviceability Check by Member
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The following figure compares the deformations for state I (uncracked sections) and state II (cracked
sections). The crack formation leads to a significant increase in the deflection.
Figure 9.8 Deformations in state I (uncracked sections) and state II (cracked sections)
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9.2 Nonlinear Deformation Analysis

The second example presents the basic principles of a nonlinear calculation for the serviceability limit
state.
A comparative calculation is carried out for a two-span system. We look more closely at the approach
used to limit the degree of bending slenderness and the applied tensile strength.
9.2.1 Input Data
System and loading
Figure 9.9 System and loading
Slab thickness 16 cm
Material Concrete C20/25

Reinforcement steel B 500 S (A)
Exposure class XC1
Concrete cover cnom = 22 mm
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Combination for ultimate limit state
By selecting the corresponding General Data option, RFEM automatically creates a result combination
that is used for the ultimate limit state designs. This result combination forms the envelope of the
following load combinations:
CO1: 1.35 ⋅ LC1 + 1.5 ⋅ LC2 + 1.5 ⋅ LC3

CO2: 1.35 ⋅ LC1 + 1.5 ⋅ LC2
CO3: 1.35 ⋅ LC1 + 1.5 ⋅ LC3
Combination for serviceability limit state
The combination factor ψ2,1 for the quasi-permanent action combination is applied with 0.6. As a
superposition of load case results (RC) is excluded for nonlinear calculations, three load combinations
with the following combination factors are used for the design in the serviceability limit state:
CO4: LC1 + 0.6 ⋅ LC2 + 0.6 ⋅ LC3

CO5: LC1 + 0.6 ⋅ LC2
CO6: LC1 + 0.6 ⋅ LC3
9.2.2 Input in RF-CONCRETE Members
To determine the reinforcement, only the ultimate limit state is considered. In window 1.1 General
Data, select RC1 for the design.
Figure 9.10 Window 1.1 General Data, Ultimate Limit State tab
In window 1.2 Materials, the materials Concrete C20/25 and B 500 S (A) are preset.
Window 1.3 Cross-Sections is described elsewhere when creeping is considered (see Figure 9.18 ).
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Because the calculation is performed by considering moment swap and moment reduction, we have to
specify some settings in window 1.5 Supports.
Figure 9.11 Window 1.5 Supports
In column B, we enter the support widths shown in the figure above. Then, in table column F, we
reduce the maximum column moment for the intermediate support to 85 % of the linear elastic value.
To enable the input field, select the check boxes below the graphic on the right so that the program will
take the specifications for the design into account.
Showing the provided reinforcement is of major importance for the nonlinear calculation because it is
a decisive influencing value when determining curvatures in the cracked state. In window 1.6, we
create an additional reinforcement diameter of 6 mm (see Figure 9.12 ).
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Figure 9.12 Window 1.6 Reinforcement, Longitudinal Reinforcement tab
In the Reinforcement Layout tab of window 1.6 Reinforcement, we specify the concrete covers with 22
mm. Thus, the bar centroidal axis applied for the design is 25 mm.
Figure 9.13 Window 1.6 Reinforcement, Reinforcement Layout tab
The input is thus complete and the [Calculation] can be started.
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9.2.3 Checking the Reinforcement
The longitudinal reinforcement given in results window 3.1 is the basis for the nonlinear calculation.
Figure 9.14 Window 3.1 Provided Longitudinal Reinforcement
9.2.4 Specifications for Nonlinear Calculation
The nonlinear calculation for the serviceability limit state is prepared in the Serviceability Limit State tab
of window 1.1 General Data.
Figure 9.15 Window 1.1 General Data, Serviceability Limit State tab
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For the design, we select load combinations CO4 to CO6 defined for the serviceability limit state
design. In addition, we select the Nonlinear calculation and Activate creep and shrinkage check
boxes.
The [Settings for Nonlinear Calculation] button opens the dialog box of the same name. The default
settings of the Analysis Method tab remain unchanged. In the Tension Stiffening Effect tab, we specify
the following settings.
Figure 9.16 Settings for Nonlinear Calculation dialog box, Tension Stiffening Effect tab
We select the approach of the Modified steel characteristic diagram. For now we leave the adjustment
factor of the tensile strength as 1.00 ⋅ fct. The calculation is performed with the mean axial tensile
strength of concrete specified in EN 1992-1-1, table 3.1.
The load duration factor βt is calculated depending on the load cases of the respective load
combinations between the limit values 0.25 and 0.4. Specifications for the axial force are of no
relevance for pure bending.
We can keep the default values in the Iteration Parameters tab. But we have to adjust the FE division of
members with the button.
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Figure 9.17 Settings for Nonlinear Calculation and FE Mesh dialog boxes
Finally, we define the settings for creep and shrinkage in window 1.3 Cross-Sections.
Figure 9.18 Window 1.3 Cross-Sections
The table cell button in column E opens the dialog box for entering the creep and shrinkage
parameters.
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Figure 9.19 Settings for Creep and Shrinkage dialog box
We change the Type of cement to R and the Effective age to 28 days. The creep coefficient
according to EN 1992-1-1 shall be understood as the pure final creep. It usually must still be
converted into an effective creep coefficient in accordance with the ratio of creep-producing load to
effective load.
The shrinkage is not analyzed further: Due to the almost symmetrical reinforcement in span 1 and the
minor reinforcement difference in span 2, the shrinkage curvatures do not significantly contribute to the
total deformation. Therefore, we Determine the shrinkage strain as 0.
The input for the nonlinear calculation is now complete. We can start the [Calculation] again.
Figure 9.20 Nonlinear calculation
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9.2.5 Results of RF-CONCRETE Members
In the 6.2.4 Serviceability Limit State for Nonlinear Calculation by x-Location window, we can display
the maximum deformations and crack widths on each x-location.
Figure 9.21 Window 6.2.4 Serviceability Limit State for Nonlinear Calculation by x-Location
The maximum deformation occurs at the location x = 2.200 m for CO4 (traffic load in span 1). The
displacement u = 23.94 mm corresponds to a value of 1/209 ⋅ ℓ and is therefore larger than the
recommended value of 1/250 ⋅ ℓ.
Figure 9.22 Detailed results for member 1 at location x = 2.200 m, CO4
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9.2.6 Manual Calculation
Now we check the results for the location x = 2.20 m step by step. Of primary interest is the
calculation of the strain and stress level, which is decisive for the nonlinear determination of
deformations and internal forces as a basis for the stiffness properties.
For manual calculations, we use simplified approaches to some extend, which lead to minor
differences.
9.2.6.1 Material Properties for Deformation Analysis
Concrete C 20/25
fc = fcm = 20 + 8 = 28 N/mm2
Ec = Ecm = 30000 N/mm2
εc1 = −2.0 ‰
εc1u = −3.5 ‰
Distorted for creep with (1 + φ) = 3.95:
Ec = Ecm = 7594.9 N/mm2

ε 2c1 = −7.9 ‰
εc1u = −13.8 ‰
Reinforcement steel B 500 S (A)
fym = fyk = 500 = 500.00 N/mm2

ftm = ftk = 550 = 550.00 N/mm2
Es = 200000 N/mm2
εsu = 25 ‰
αe = 200,000 / 30,000 = 6.67
Distorted for creep with (1 + φ) = 3.95:
αe = 200000 / 7594.9 = 26.33
9.2.6.2 State I (uncracked)
When determining the cross-section properties, we take the available steel area into account. The
missing area of concrete in the zone of rebars is neglected. Recalculating the centroid of the ideal
cross-section is not necessary because the reinforcement is symmetric with the same edge distances on
top and bottom side.
The following distances for the Steiner component (parallel axis theorem) are the direct result:
ac = 0 cm
as1 = 8 − 2.5 = 5.5 cm
as2 = 5.5 cm
www.dlubal.com 187
Moment of inertia
2
A s1s2 a 22 a e 2 33 44 041 cm4
b h 3 100 163
I yI 622 5
52 26
12 12
Ideal cross-section area
a e 16 100 12
AI Ac As 44 26
33 1927
5 cm2
Crack moment Mcr
We assume that the cross-section cracks when the tensile strength fctm in the most external fiber is
reached.
M cr
s z ct f ctm
I
f ctm I 0
22 44 041
M cr 1 211 kNcm 12
1 kNm
z ct 8
Steel stress σsrI and steel strain εsrI for crack moment
55 55
s I
sr1 f ctm a e 2
2 26
33 39
82 Nmm 2
8 8
s 39
82
e
sr
I
sr1 1
991 0
199 ‰
Es 200 000
Notional steel and concrete stress for effective moment M = 17.64 kNm
M 1764
s s1 a e
z s1 5
5 26
33 5
77 kNcm2 57
7 Nmm 2
I 44041
M 1764
s c z cc 8 0
32 kNcm2 3
2 Nmm 2
I 44041
Curvature for uncracked section (state I) (1/r)z,I = (1/r)I
1 M 0
01764

5
283 103 m1
r
zI E I 7594
9 4
4041 104
188 www.dlubal.com
Results of RF-CONCRETE Members
Figure 9.23 Detailed results for state I
9.2.6.3 State II (cracked)
Cross-section properties in cracked state (state II)
In contrast to the cross-section properties in the uncracked state (state I), the cross-section properties in
state II (cracked sections) are quite difficult to determine manually. Determining the strain distribution
(general case: ε0 + (1/r)y ⋅ y + (1/r)z ⋅ z) for a particular action constellation with the stress-strain
relations defined in the standards for nonlinear methods already represents a problem. For further
information, refer to the corresponding literature [7] .
Steel stress σsrII and steel strain εsrII for crack moment
To determine the stresses and strains for crack formation, we can normally make simplified assumptions
(linear elastic material rules). We can justify this approach by the fact that the ratio of stress to strain for
concrete behaves nearly linearly up to a stress of σc ≅ 0.4 ⋅ fc. For reinforcing steel, we can roughly
assume this fact until yielding is reached anyway. Thus, if we have a structural component with a crack
moment in the characteristic load level, we can calculate stresses and strains with sufficient accuracy
using these simplified approaches.
Without an acting axial force, the solution for a triangular compression zone leads to a quadratic
equation (with axial force: cubic equation) when calculating the neutral axis depth x (height of
compression zone). Due to the assumed linearity of stresses and strains, the neutral axis depth is
decoupled from the applied moment.
www.dlubal.com 189
Figure 9.24 Relations for calculating the stresses and strains for characteristic loads
Calculation of neutral axis depth xII
A s1 6 22 cm2
r 0
004607
b d 100 13 5 cm2
A s2 A s2
A s2 d 2
x a r a r 2 a r

1

1
1

e e e

A s1
A s1
A s1 d
26 004607
33 0 1 1
004607
1 1 1 2
5
26
33 0 2 26
33 0
004607
1

1 13 5
0
3459
x II x d 0
346 13
5 4
67 cm4
Moment of inertia
k 4 x 3 12 a e r
1 x
2
A s2 d2
2
12 a e
r x

A s1 2
00460 346
2 2
5
4 0
3463 12 26
33 0 1 0 2
12 26
33 0
00460 1
0
346

13
5
0826
d3 13
53
I cII k b 0
826 100 16 935 cm4
12 12
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Stresses for crack internal forces
M 1210
s cr
II x 4
67 10 3
34 Nmm 2
I yII 16935

d x 26 710 166
M 1210
s sr1
II a e 33 13
5 4 12 Nmm 2
I yII 16935
x d2 467 2 5
s s 166
12 40
82 Nmm 2
sr2
II sr1
II
d x 13
5 4 67
Steel strain for crack internal forces
s 166
012
e
sr1
II
sr1
II 1 000 0
8306 ‰
Es 200 000
Steel stress and concrete stress for available moment
A simplified calculation of stresses and strains, as was done for the crack moment, cannot be applied
without due consideration. The stresses and strains for the effective moment M = 17.64 kNm required
for the calculation of the curvatures and stiffnesses are determined in a comparative calculation using
the exact stress-strain curves for concrete and reinforcing steel according to EN 1992-1-1, Figure 3.2
or 3.3.
Figure 9.25 Relations for calculating stresses and strains for characteristic loads according to [1]
The accurate calculation of stresses in the cracked state is performed by means of a third party
application used for exact stress integration, leading to the following results for M = 17.64 kNm:
σs1,II = 242.27 N/mm2

σs2,II = −59.07 N/mm2
εs1,II = 1.211 ‰
εs2,II = −0.638 ‰
εc,II = −0.6378 ‰
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Figure 9.26 Detailed results for state II
9.2.6.4 Mean Curvatures
The mean curvatures arising with the selected Tension-Stiffening approach are determined from the
calculations for pure state I and pure state II.
The underlying Tension Stiffening model described in book 525 [6] considers the concrete's tension
stiffening effect between the cracks by means of a reduction of the steel strain. The required parameters
are determined as follows.
Governing state of crack formation
Steel stress in state II for crack formation: σsr1,II = 166.12 N/mm2
Steel stress in state II: σs1,II = 242.27 N/mm2
s s1
II 242 3 s
27 Nmm 2 1 sr1
II 215
96 Nmm 2
Hence, we will have a closer look at the final crack state.
Average steel strain

εsm = εs2,II - βt ∙ (εsr,II - εsr,I)
εsm = 1.211 - 0.306 ∙ (0.8306 - 0.199) = 1.0177 ‰
where
εs2,II = 1.211 ‰ : steel strain in state II

εsr1,II = 0.8306 : steel strain for crack internal force in state II
εsr1,I = 0.199 ‰ : steel strain for crack internal force in state I
βt = 0.306 : load duration factor of available action
192 www.dlubal.com
Mean curvature
1
e sm e c 1
0177 0
6378 mm

12
26 1
226 102 m1
r
zm d 0135 m
Mean bending stiffness
From the mean curvature (1/r)z,m and the relation
1 M

r m E
zm I y
the secant stiffness in the corresponding node results.
My 001764

1r
I ym E 1
43883 MNm 2 1438
83 kNm2
z
m 1
226 102
where
My = 17.64 kNm : available moment

(1/r)z,m = 1.226 ⋅ 10-2m-1 : steel strain for crack internal force in state II
Figure 9.27 Detailed results of mean curvatures
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9.2.7 Results Evaluation
Figure 9.28 Deformations according to linear elastic calculation (above) and nonlinear calculation with creep (below)
The deformation from the nonlinear calculation with consideration of the creep effect proves to be
significantly higher than the deformation from the pure linear elastic calculation without creep effect. As
described in chapter 9.2.5 , the calculated deformation falls below the recommended limit value of
ℓ/250.
The deformations in state II are considerably affected by three factors:
Floor thickness
In our example, the floor thickness was determined by a limitation of the bending slenderness
according to DIN 1045-1, 11.3.2, so that we could describe the calculation process. According to EN
1992-1-1, the result is a floor thickness of h ≥ 18 cm calculated with the same boundary conditions.
By increasing the thickness to 18 cm we can significantly reduce the deformations.
Creeping
The assumed creep coefficient appears to be relatively high at φ∞ = 2.95 but meets the requirements
according to EN 1992-1-1 for the assumed environmental conditions and the cross-section geometry.
By means of the factor ψ (ψ2,1 = 0.6) used to calculate the quasi-permanent action combination, it
would be possible to effect a certain reduction from creep-producing load to acting load.
194 www.dlubal.com
Concrete tensile strength
The distribution of stiffnesses in the figure below shows that a large area in span 1 is cracked in the
serviceability limit state.
Figure 9.29 Stiffness diagram Iy,m ⋅ E over beam length
Alternative calculation with increased concrete tensile strength
For the calculation, the concrete tensile strength was assumed with the value fctm (axial tensile strength)
according to EN 1992-1-1. Parameters such as the gradient of stresses have a great influence on the
concrete's effective tensile strength: A large stress gradient increases the tensile strength because the
corresponding high stresses act only in few fibres. You can find more information about the different
influencing factors that affect the tensile strength, inter alia, in [13] .
For our example, the tensile strength is calculated once more according to [13] , chapter 2.1.1:
fctm = 0.45 ⋅ 0.818 ⋅ 1 ⋅ 25 2/3 = 3.14 N/mm2

where
fcm = 20 + 5 = 25 N/mm2 The mean value is taken into account by

the summand 5 N/mm2
CV = 0.85 - 0.2 ⋅ 0.16 = 0.818 ≥ 0.65 Prior damage of structural component is

taken into account
Ch = (2.6 + 24 ⋅ 0.16)/(1.0 + 40 ⋅ 0.16) = 0.87 Influence of structural component thickness
Cη = 1 Influence of eccentricity
η = M/(N ⋅ h) ∞ für N 0
To consider the influence of an increased tensile strength, the model is calculated in a second design
case using the adjustment factor 3.14/2.2 = 1.42 (see Figure 9.30 ).
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Figure 9.30 Adjusting the concrete tensile strength in the Settings for Nonlinear Calculation dialog box
The calculation shows a strong reduction of the cracked zones that also leads to a reduction of the
deformation to ul = 14.6 mm. This value clearly lies below the reference value of
ℓ /250 = 5,000/250 = 20 mm.
The following figure illustrates the relation between deformation and stiffness reduction. In span 1, the
start of the crack formation is discernible; only in the support area does the cross-section pass locally
into the cracked state.
Figure 9.31 Deformation and bending stiffness for increased concrete tensile strength (stress gradient)
It becomes evident how sensitively the nonlinear calculation reacts to changed parameters. The
difference is especially significant for structural components with large stiffness changes between
cracked and uncracked state.
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9.3 Stability Analysis for Bracket
9.3.1 Model in RFEM
By describing the stability analysis of a slender, restrained column, we look at the differences of both
approaches regarding the nonlinear calculation according to EN 1992-1-1, 5.7 and 5.8.6.
This model is presented as example 1 in [14] .
System and loading
Figure 9.32 System and loading
The loading corresponds to the specifications from [14] . In load case 1, the design value NEd =
1059.5 kN is taken into account.
As shown in the figure above, the loading is entered eccentrically. The eccentricity can be determined
geometrically or with an additional moment MSd = 1059.5 ⋅ 0.05 = 52.98 kNm. In our example, the
load is introduced eccentrically through a short member.
The inclination of the column is considered as an imperfection in load case 2. The value of the
inclination is calculated as 1/φ = 1/0.003536 = 282.81.
The concrete's modulus of elasticity is defined with 26230 N/mm2 according to the specification in
[14] .
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Load combinations
For analyzing the load-deformation behavior, we define the following load combinations:
Design-relevant combination:
CO 1 LC1 + LC2
Alternatives:
CO 2 0.20 ∙ LC1 + LC2
CO 3 0.50 ∙ LC1 + LC2
CO 4 0.70 ∙ LC1 + LC2
CO 5 0.80 ∙ LC1 + LC2
CO 6 0.90 ∙ LC1 + LC2
CO 7 0.92 ∙ LC1 + LC2
CO 8 0.94 ∙ LC1 + LC2
CO 9 0.96 ∙ LC1 + LC2
CO 10 0.97 ∙ LC1 + LC2
CO 11 0.98 ∙ LC1 + LC2
CO 12 0.99 ∙ LC1 + LC2
CO 13 1.05 ∙ LC1 + LC2
CO 14 1.10 ∙ LC1 + LC2
No stiffness reduction by the partial safety factor γM is carried out for the calculation (RFEM default
setting).
198 www.dlubal.com
Results
The calculation with RFEM provides the following internal forces and deformations:
Load Axial force Moment Moment Column head

combination N [kNm] I. Order II. Order displacement
Theory Theory u [mm]
MI [kNm] MII [kNm]
CO 1 −1059.50 82.59 170.58 82.71
CO 2 −211.90 18.55 9.27
CO 3 −529.75 56.18 27.77
CO 4 −741.65 91.27 44.77
CO 5 −847.60 113.28 55.36
CO 6 −953.55 139.33 67.83
CO 7 −974.74 145.12 70.59
CO 8 −995.93 151.12 73.45
CO 9 −1017.12 157.36 76.42
CO 10 −1027.71 160.57 77.95
CO 11 −1038.31 163.84 79.51
CO 12 −1048.91 167.18 81.09
CO 13 −1112.47 186.66 91.29
CO 14 −1165.45 208.71 100.80
Table 9.1 RFEM results
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9.3.2 Nonlinear Calculation
The column is designed with both methods according to EN 1992-1-1, 5.7 and 5.8.6.
9.3.2.1 EN 1992-1-1, 5.7
The first design case performs the analysis according to the holistic concept of the European standard
EC 2.
Data entered in RF-CONCRETE Members
The basic input is shown in the following figures.
Figure 9.33 General data for nonlinear calculation according to EN 1992-1-1, 5.7
The [Settings] for the nonlinear calculation must be defined as shown in the following figures.
200 www.dlubal.com
We select the method with mean values of material strength and global partial safety factor. Plastic
releases (plastic curvatures) are excluded.
Figure 9.34 Analysis method according to EN 1992-1-1, 5.7
To achieve results comparable to the calculation in [14] , we have to modify the Tension Stiffening
model according to Quast: As the calculation of the allowable compression stress fcR is based on a low
quantile, fctk,0.05 is also used for the determination of the allowable concrete tension stress.
Figure 9.35 Effective tension stress of concrete for Tension Stiffening
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As our structure is a statically determinate system, we can keep the damping factor set to 1.0.
For the nonlinear calculation of models prone to instability risks, the break-off limits ε1 and ε2 are
important: If a calculation according to the linear static analysis converges steadily, it is possible that
compression elements may see a "reversal point" where the deviations ε increase again. This effect
occurs when the system can no longer compensate or absorb the increase of internal forces through
the decreasing stiffnesses, caused by the increase of the deformation according to the second-order
analysis. We keep ε1 = ε2 = 0.001 unchanged in our example.
Figure 9.36 Iteration parameters
To represent the distribution of stiffnesses with sufficient accuracy, we limit the target length of the FE
mesh to 0.20 m.
Figure 9.37 FE mesh settings
202 www.dlubal.com
In [14] , a required reinforcement of As,tot = 66.10 cm2 is determined using the similar design
method according to DIN 1045-1, 8.5. In order to compare these results with the RF-CONCRETE
Members calculation according to EN 1992-1-1, 5.7, we still have to specify other settings.
The design is performed with a provided reinforcement that is actually available. Thus, some
specifications for diameter, concrete cover, and reinforcement amount are still required in window 1.6
Reinforcement. In the Longitudinal Reinforcement tab, we define the diameter as 25 mm.
Figure 9.38 Specifying the rebar diameter
The concrete cover is selected as cnom = 27.5 mm in order to get a center distance of 40 mm.
Figure 9.39 Specifying the concrete cover
www.dlubal.com 203
In order to perform the design with the specified reinforcement from [14] , a minimum reinforcement
of As,top = As,bottom = 32 cm2 is defined.
Figure 9.40 Specifying the minimum reinforcement
Now the input is complete and we can start the [Calculation].
Results of nonlinear calculation
The interpretation of results is explained in the previous example (chapter 9.2 ).
204 www.dlubal.com
With the safety factor γ = 1.989, the system apparently has sufficient reserves. However, we want to
demonstrate that a small load increase will lead to the system's instability. In window 1.1 General
Data, we select CO 14 for the design so that the loading is increased by 10%. According to the
physically linear second order theory, there is no stability problem for this load combination.
Now the nonlinear [Calculation] is stopped by displaying a message telling us that it is not possible to
design a sufficient resistance of the system with the selected reinforcement.
Figure 9.42 Break-off of calculation for CO 14 due to instability
Analyzing the model according to EN 1992-1-1, 5.8.6, described in the following chapter, shows that
the column fails before the cross-section resistance is reached.
9.3.2.2 EN 1992-1-1, 5.8.6
The second design case performs the design in accordance with the general design method of EC 2
for compression members according to the second-order analysis.
Data entered in RF-CONCRETE Members
In order to compare the results, a new concrete case is created for EN 1992-1-1, 5.8.6. As we need
to change only little input data, we simply copy the first design case on the RF-CONCRETE Members
menu by selecting
File Copy Case.
Figure 9.43 Copying the first design case
In window 1.1 General Data, we need to adjust the [Settings] for the calculation.
www.dlubal.com 205
We select the general method for members in axial compression according to the second-order theory.
Figure 9.44 Analysis method according to EN 1992-1-1, 5.8.6
The nonlinear design of the ultimate limit state for compression elements according to EN 1992-1-1,
5.8.6 is based on a divided safety concept (see chapter 2.4.7.2 ). Therefore, we also have to
calculate with the average values of the material parameters for the approach of Tension Stiffening.
The partial safety factor γc flows directly into the applied tensile strength: fct,R = α ⋅ fct / γc. This also
applies for the concrete's modulus of elasticity.
Figure 9.45 Effective tension stress of concrete for Tension Stiffening
206 www.dlubal.com
The parameters of the Iteration Parameters tab remain unchanged.
In [14] , a required reinforcement of As,tot = 51.0 cm2 is determined by using the similar design
method according to DIN 1045-1, 8.6.1. In order to compare these results with the RF-CONCRETE
Members calculation according to EN 1992-1-1, 5.8.6, we change the minimum reinforcement to
As,top = As,bottom = 25 cm2 in window 1.6 Reinforcement.
Figure 9.46 Modifying the minimum reinforcement
Now the modifications are complete and we can start the [Calculation].
Results of nonlinear calculation
www.dlubal.com 207
With the selected reinforcement, we get a safety factor γ of 2.163 for the restrained location (in
comparison: γ = 1.989 for the design according to EN 1992-1-1, 5.7).
The following figure compares the deformations determined according to the second-order analysis
and both nonlinear calculation methods.
Figure 9.48 Comparison of results according to second-order analysis and nonlinear calculation
The results can be illustrated by a representation in the M-N interaction diagram. In addition to the
cross-section resistance (verified quantile values), Figure 9.49 shows the capacity curves for
calculation according to the linear static analysis and the second-order analysis for linear material
behavior, as well as according to the second-order analysis for nonlinear material behavior.
208 www.dlubal.com
Figure 9.49 M-N interaction diagram
For our slender compression element, the calculation according to the second-order analysis already
deviates from the calculation according to the linear static analysis when applying a low load level.
The physical nonlinearity becomes noticeable only for a higher load level, but then it proceeds very
quickly. Finally, the column fails due to loss of stability because of the strong stiffness reduction
occurring in this process.
If the material-dependent nonlinearity is not taken into account, the pure cross-section design of the
CO1 internal forces according to the second-order analysis (physically linear) provides a required
reinforcement of As,tot = 2 ⋅ 5.27 = 10.54 cm2.
Figure 9.50 Required reinforcement for physically linear design
Thus, the de facto required reinforcement is clearly underestimated. The design of moment and axial
force from the physically nonlinear calculation would also lead to an under-designed reinforcement:
The result for My = 195.22 kNm and N = −1059.39 kN would be a required reinforcement of As,tot
= 2 ⋅ 7.15 = 14.30 cm2. The reason is that the internal forces are calculated depending on the
provided reinforcement. However, the column fails before the ultimate load bearing capacity of the
cross-section is reached. In our example, this happens for a moment of approximately 441.5 kN. In the
interaction with the axial force, we get a required reinforcement of As,tot = 2 ⋅ 25.40 = 50.80 cm2.
www.dlubal.com 209
10 RF-CONCRETE Members - User Manual
10 Literature
[1] Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures - Part 1-1: General rules and rules for buildings; EN
1992-1-1:2011-01
[2] Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures - Part 1-2: Structural fire design; EN 1992-1-2:2010-
12
[3] Avak, Ralf. Stahlbetonbau in Beispielen, DIN 1045 – Teil 1 : Grundlagen der
Stahlbeton-Bemessung - Bemessung von Stabtragwerken. Werner Verlag, 5. Auflage, 2007
[4] Zilch, Konrad u. Zehetmaier, Gerhard. Bemessung im konstruktiven Betonbau. Springer Verlag,
2. Auflage 2010
[5] Quast, Ulrich. Zum nichtlinearen Berechnen im Stahlbeton- und Spannbetonbau. Beton und
Stahlbetonbau, Heft 9 und Heft 10, 1994.
[6] Deutscher Ausschuss für Stahlbeton (Hrsg.): Heft 525 – Erläuterungen zu DIN 1045-1. Beuth
Verlag GmbH, 2003.
[7] Deutscher Ausschuss für Stahlbetonbau (Hrsg.) Heft 415 – Programmgesteuerte Berechnung
beliebiger Massivbauquerschnitte unter zweiachsiger Biegung mit Längskraft. Beuth Verlag
GmbH, Berlin, 1990.
[8] Pfeiffer, Uwe. Die nichtlineare Berechnung ebener Rahmen aus Stahl- oder Spannbeton mit
Berücksichtigung der durch das Aufreißen bedingten Achsendehnung. Cuviller Verlag,
Göttingen, 2004.
[9] Leonhardt, Fritz. Vorlesungen über Massivbau - Teil 1 bis 4. Springer Verlag, 3. Auflage, 1984
[10] Quast, Ulrich. Zur Kritik an der Stützenbemessung. Beton- und Stahlbetonbau 95 (05/2000)
[11] Hosser, Dietmar u. Richter, Ekkehard. Überführung von EN 1992-1-2 in EN-Norm und
Bestimmung der national festzulegenden Parameter (NDP) im Nationalen Anhang zu EN
1992-1-2. Schlussbericht. Fraunhofer IRB, Stuttgart, 2007
[12] Heydel, Günter, Krings, Wolfgang u. Hermann, Horst. Stahlbeton im Hochbau nach EC2:
Einführung und Anwendungsbeispiele. Ernst & Sohn Verlag, 1995
[13] Noakowski, Piotr u. Schäfer, Horst. Steifigkeitsorientierte Statik im Stahlbetonbau. Ernst & Sohn
Verlag, 2003.
[14] Kleinschmitt, Jörrit. Die Berechnung von Stahlbetonstützen nach DIN 1045-1 mit nichtlinearen
Verfahren. Beton- und Stahlbetonbau 100 (02/2005)
210 www.dlubal.com

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RF-CONCRETE

Phone: +1 267 702-2815

Using the Manual

1 Introduction 5 3.6.3 Reinforcement Layout 84

6.3.1 Background Graphic and View Mode 155

8 General Functions 165

1.1 Add-on Module RF-CONCRETE Members

Designs are possible according to the following standards:

We hope you will enjoy working with RF-CONCRETE Members.

Your Dlubal Software team

1.2 Using the Manual

1.3 Starting RF-CONCRETE Members

Add-on Modules Design - Concrete RF-CONCRETE Members.

Figure 1.1 Menu Add-on Modules Design - Concrete RF-CONCRETE Members

Add-on Modules RF-CONCRETE Members.

Figure 1.2 Data navigator: Add-on Modules RF-CONCRETE Members

Figure 1.3 [RF-CONCRETE Members] panel button

2.1 Ultimate Limit State Design

2.1.1 Bending and Axial Force

2.1.2 Shear Force

VEd : design value of applied shear force

VRd,c : design shear resistance of a structural component without shear reinforcement

VEd ≤ VRd,s and VEd ≤ VRd,max

Design shear resistance without shear reinforcement

CRd,c recommended value: 0.18 / γc

200 scaling factor for considering cross-section depth

A sl ratio of longitudinal reinforcement

fck characteristic value of concrete compressive strength in [N/mm2]

k1 recommended value: 0.15

bw minimum cross-section width within tension zone in [mm]

d static effective depth of bending reinforcement in [mm]

N Ed design value of concrete longitudinal stress in [N/mm2]

Equation 2.2 EN 1992-1-1, Eq. (6.2b)

Design shear resistance with shear reinforcement

Asw cross-sectional area of shear reinforcement

z lever arm of the internal forces assumed with 0.9 d

fywd design yield strength of shear reinforcement

θ inclination of concrete compression strut

cot θ 2.5 1.0

Table 2.1 Recommended limits for inclination of compression strut

Design shear resistance of concrete compression strut

αcw coefficient for considering stress state in compression flange

z lever arm of the internal forces (precisely calculated in bending design)

ν1 reduction factor for concrete strength in case of shear cracks

fcd design value of concrete strength

θ inclination of concrete compression strut

2.1.3 Shear Forces Between Web and Flanges of T-Beams

hf flange thickness at junction

Δxf considered length

ΔFd,f longitudinal force difference in flange over length Δx

MyEd NEd beffi for compression flanges

M yEd N Ed A sa for tension flanges

zs distance between centroid of cross-section and tension reinforcement

z lever arm of internal forces 0.9 d

beff,i width of adjacent flange (compression flange) or width of reinforcement distribution in

beff flange width

Asa reinforcement exposed in connected tension flange

As total area of tension reinforcement