A Design Chart for Optimum Dimensions of Reinforced Concrete Cantilever Beams

Abstract

Abstract This theoretical study focused on cantilever reinforced concrete beams with a rectangular cross-section (different dimensions) subjected to bending moments due to uniformly distributed loads. By creating an algorithm and using the Python 3.4 software, the beams’ length was calculated for each cross-section dimension to check the required immediate and sustained deflections according to ACI 318M-19. Based on the analysis output, a graphical relationship was developed between the dimensions of the cantilever beam’s cross-section versus the maximum length to control the allowable deflection of the beam. Finally, the author was able to draw a simplified novel graph to facilitate the selection of cross-sections required for specified lengths of cantilever concrete beams.