The situation when the static equilibrium of a structure depends on the torsional

resistance of elements of the structure is illustrated in Fig.1 where a L-shaped cantilever

carries a load at the tip. The longitudinal beam is subjected to a twisting moment equal
to Wa and it is necessary that the beam can resist this twisting action otherwise the
beam will collapse. The twisting moment Wa is equilibrium torsion and requires a
torsional design covering both ultimate and serviceability states.

a
W
Fig.1 Equilibrium torsion
Compatibility torsion arises when members are subjected to twisting moments in order
to preserve continuity of displacements, but torsional resistance is not required to
maintain equilibrium.
Fig.2 shows an intersection of two beams. Only the longitudinal beam carries an
external load W normal to the plan of the grid formed by the two beams.

Fig.2 Compatibility torsion

If the two beams are rigidly connected, when the longitudinal beam sags under the
action of force W, the transverse beam must rotate for compatibility reasons. This
rotation is called compatibility torsion. This torsion is not needed to maintain equilibrium.
The EC2 suggests in section 6.3.1(2) that the minimum longitudinal and shear
reinforcement normally provided can produce sufficient resistance against excessive
cracking caused by compatibility torsion.