FAQs

Can I use this program to do two-way slab design?

No. Please use spSlab instead.

Which design codes does this program support?

For information on the codes supported by this program please visit spBeam features.

Does the program calculate long-term deflections?

Yes, in version 2.00 or higher. More information about long-term deflections calculations can be found in Section 2.19.3 in spBeam Manual.

Do I have to have two cantilevers in this program?

No. Cantilevers are optional.

Does spBeam take into account crack control requirements for maximum bar spacing?

Yes. More information about maximum bar spacing can be found in Section 2.15 in spBeam Manual.

Does spBeam support moment redistribution?

Yes. The program allows for redistribution of negative moments at supports. Only reduction in negative moments is considered. More information about moment redistribution can be found in Section 2.10 in spBeam Manual.

Can I open old version data files in the latest version?

Yes.

Does the program consider torsion?

Yes. Torsion analysis can be engaged for beam and one-way systems using the Torsion Analysis and Design check box located in the Solve Options tab in the Input | General Information dialog box. More information about torsion can be found in Section 2.13 in spBeam Manual.

Can the beam cross section vary for each span?

Yes.

What beam cross section does the program consider?

Rectangular, T section and L section.

Can spBeam design doubly reinforced beams?

Yes. Compression reinforcement can be engaged for beams using the Compression Reinforcement check box located in the Solve Options tab in the Input | General Information dialog box. More information about doubly reinforced beam design can be found in "Doubly Reinforced Concrete Beam Design (ACI 318-14)" design example and Section 2.14 in spBeam Manual.

What live load pattern ratio should I use in spBeam? When to use load patterns in spBeam?

The analysis of floor systems requires the consideration of several loading configurations. For example, the two adjacent spans loaded may produce the maximum shear stress around a column, while the alternate spans loaded may produce the maximum flexural moments. To cover different loading scenarios the program generates live load case based on the different load patterns. More information about load patterns can be found in Section 2.7.4 in spBeam Manual.

How to disable load patterning in spBeam?

The user has the ability to select different value for the pattern ratio within the range 0-100%. If 0% is selected then load patterning effects will be neglected. However, the pattern No. 1 with all spans loaded (as specified by the user) is always considered with full unreduced magnitude. More information about load patterns can be found in Section 2.7.4 in spBeam Manual.

Does spBeam consider discontinuous bars in cracked moment of inertia (I_cr) and deflection calculations?

When Compression Reinforcement solve option is not checked, spBeam does not consider discontinuous bars in I_cr and deflection calculations. When Compression Reinforcement solve option is checked, spBeam considers discontinuous bars in I_cr and deflection calculations. More information about this topic can be found in "spSlab/spBeam Reinforcing Bar Arrangement Impact on Deflections" technical article.