1.

Summary
1.1 Topic:
Economic prospects in the design of long span slabs.
1.2 Executive summary of report
In this report I will be comparing the economic considerations in the design of long span slabs. The
comparison will be between a flat slab and a grid slab. The fat slab will be modelled and analysed
using the direct method and the grid slab will be analysed using the plate theory method. The cost
of the two will be determined by the quantity of steel, volume of concrete used in beams and slab
and the cost of formwork. By adding all these parameters, cost of slabs per square meter is
determined. I will use different sizes of panels which will range from 5m to 13m.
1.2 Keywords- Grid slab, flat slab, economical, comparison, long span.

2. Introduction
2.1 Problem Statement
The objective function is to come on the proper method of selecting the slab forms on variable span.
In this report I will be comparing a flat and grid slab on which one is economical as the span range
increases.

2.2 Scope and Limitations

When I was doing my experimental learning I was exposed with many designs of floor slabs. In this
project I will tackle different sizes of panels; 5X5, 7X7, 9X9, 11X11, and 13X13. I will show the
different costs when either you design a flat slab or a grid slab with each panel by graphical means.
All calculations are done on excel worksheet. The quantity assessment will be carried out for the
designed slab and a rate analysis will be performed.
2.2.1

Limitations
The panels shall be rectangular, and the ratio of the longer span within a panel shall
not be greater than 2
The successive span lengths in each direction shall not differ by more than one third
of the longer span.
The design live load shall not exceed three times the design dead load.

3. Body of the Report

3.1 Literature review
A slab is a flat, two dimensional, planar structural element having thickness small compared to its
other two dimensions. It provides a working surface or covering shelter in buildings. It supports
mainly transverse loads and transfers then to support primarily by bending element just like a beam.

3.1.1 Flat Slab

A reinforced flat slab is one of the type which is used for long span, it is also called a
beamless slab, it is supported directly by columns without intermediate beams or wall
supports. The flat slab is usually thickened close to the supporting columns to provide
adequate strength in shear and to reduce the amount of negative reinforcement in the
support regions.

3.3.1.1 Advantages of Flat slab

Simple formwork
No beams therefore simplifying under-floor services outside the drops
Minimum structural depth
Usually does not require shear reinforcement at the columns

3.3.1.2 Disadvantages of Flat slab

Medium spans
Generally not suitable for supporting brittle ( masonry) partitions
Drop panels may interfere with larger mechanical ducting
Vertical penetrations need to avoid area around columns
For reinforced flat slabs, deflection at the middle strip may be critical.

3.3.2 Grid Slab

Grid slabs consist of beams spaced at regular intervals at perpendicular directions. The size of the
beams running in perpendicular directions is generally kept the same.

3.4.2.1 Advantages of Grid Slab

Thin slab panels

Suits industrial structures
Long spans
Vertical penetrations between beams easily accommodated

3.4.2.2 Disadvantages of Grid Slab

More formwork
Joists and beams intrude on services
Depth of floor
Greater floor to floor height

3.5 Design Procedure

Flat Slab