Analysis and Design of Reinforced Concrete Deep Beams by a Manual Approach of Stringer-Panel Method

Abstract D-regions are defined by its non-linear strain distribution over a cross section. Deep beams are an example of D-regions, as most of its load is usually directly delivered to supports by arch mechanism. The present paper focus on the Stringer-Panel Method (SPM), an alternative procedure to some well-known methods for designing this type of structure, i.e., strut-and-tie method and finite element method. A manual approach of SPM is presented, by means of a simple principle of dividing a structure on two distinct elements: stringers, which absorb normal forces, and panels, which absorb shear forces by membrane action. Two practical examples of deep beams designed using SPM are presented and their overall behavior were investigated by means of non-linear analysis. Obtained results have shown that SPM is a very attractive alternative for analyzing reinforced concrete deep beams.