Twisting moments in two-way slabs : design methods for torsion in slabs using finite element analysis

Abstract

In contrast to traditional strip methods for two-way slab design, finite element analysis (FEA) automatically provides deformation compatibility and a full equilibrium load path. Designers using FEA, however, have often blindly ignored twisting moments that occur on the edges of the elements because they are not sure how to account for them. This assumption may be unconservative where torsion is high. The available methods for explicitly incorporating twisting moments in the design of slabs based on FEA results are discussed in this article.