Differentiate between rectangular beam and flange beam

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around differentiating between rectangular beams and flange beams in the context of a design problem. Participants explore the conditions under which each type of beam should be used, particularly in relation to a specific engineering question involving beams and slabs cast together.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether they can design a beam as rectangular instead of flange, given the lack of clarity in the problem statement.
  • Another participant suggests designing both types of beams and comparing the results.
  • There is a repeated emphasis on the need for a comparison of designs to determine the "ultimate" design, as stated in the problem.
  • Some participants express uncertainty about when to use flange versus rectangular beams, asking for specific clues or conditions that dictate the choice.
  • One participant argues that since the beams and slab are cast together, it implies the necessity of using a flange beam, while another participant agrees with this reasoning.
  • Concerns are raised about the lack of definite information in the problem statement, suggesting that engineering decisions often rely on judgment due to incomplete data.
  • It is noted that rectangular beams typically do not have features that allow them to lock into the concrete slab, which is a characteristic of flange beams.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that a comparison between beam designs is necessary, but there is no consensus on the conditions that dictate the use of flange versus rectangular beams. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the definitive choice between the two types of beams.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the ambiguity in the problem statement and the potential implications of the beams being cast together with the slab, which may affect the design choice. There is also mention of the need for additional features in rectangular beams to achieve similar functionality as flange beams.

tzx9633

Homework Statement


How to differentiate between rectangular beam and flange beam ? In the question below , the answer provided is flange beam , I'm wondering can i design it as rectangular beam

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



Since there's no clue whether the flange beam or rectangular beam , i think i can also design it as retcnagular beam . Correct me if i am wrong . [/B]
 

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As i read it, you need to design it both ways and then compare the two.
 
anorlunda said:
As i read it, you need to design it both ways and then compare the two.
ok , thanks for the answer ... how if other question ? Is there any specific clue that we should use flange or rectangular beam ? In what conditions , we should use flange beam ?
 
Part C of the question says find the "ultimate" design. That is meaningless unless you show a comparison of more than one design.
 
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anorlunda said:
Part C of the question says find the "ultimate" design. That is meaningless unless you show a comparison of more than one design.
how if other question ( not this question) ? Is there any specific clue that we should use flange or rectangular beam ? In what conditions , we should use flange beam ?
 
anorlunda said:
Part C of the question says find the "ultimate" design. That is meaningless unless you show a comparison of more than one design.
Since the question specifies that the beams and slab are cast together, can i say that the beam must be 100% flange beam ? IMO , the rectangular beam doesn't have beams and slab are cast together, am i right ?
 
You're beyond my expertise. I'll let someone else answer.
 
There just is not enough definite information given in the problem statement .

So it's down to @tzx9633's judgement - if designing this floor slab for real what would he use ? What is commonly used in such situations ?

That's how things work in engineering . There is seldom enough definite information provided at the start of a new project .
 
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Nidum said:
There just is not enough definite information given in the problem statement .

So it's down to @tzx9633's judgement - if designing this floor slab for real what would he use ? What is commonly used in such situations ?

That's how things work in engineering . There is seldom enough definite information provided at the start of a new project .
This is just a coursework question , it's just an question from the exercise ...Since the question specifies that the beams and slab are cast together, can i say that the beam must be 100% flange beam ??
 
  • #10
Nidum said:
There just is not enough definite information given in the problem statement .

So it's down to @tzx9633's judgement - if designing this floor slab for real what would he use ? What is commonly used in such situations ?

That's how things work in engineering . There is seldom enough definite information provided at the start of a new project .
afaik , rectangular beam doesn't have beams and slab are cast together
 
  • #11
tzx9633 said:
afaik , rectangular beam doesn't have beams and slab are cast together

That's a valid observation . So you can reasonably make the decision that it needs to be a flanged beam . That is what I would have decided on as well .

Really any beam being cast directly into a concrete slab has to have features which lock into the concrete . These features occur naturally in a flanged beam but would have to be provided as extras for any type of flat sided beam .
 
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