ABSTRACT
Beams are horizontal members that span columns. In the case of a cantilever, one end of the beam is supported and the other end is free. Beams support the loads from slabs, other beams, walls, and columns. They transfer the loads to the columns supporting them. Beams supporting columns are called “transfer beams.” The columns terminate on top of the beams because they might be hindering free space in the floor below. Beams can be simply supported, continuous, or cantilevered. Beams can be designed as rectangular, square, T-shaped, and L-shaped sections. Beams can be singly reinforced or doubly reinforced. Doubly reinforced beams are used if the depth of the beam is restricted. Chapter 9 of the code provides specifications for beams. Beams shall be laterally braced. The spacing of the lateral bracing shall not exceed 50 times the least width of the compression flange or face. Slabs can be considered as laterally bracing the beams.
