Structural idealization for deep beams with web openings

Synopsis The exact analysis of reinforced concrete deep beams with web openings presents formidable problems. However, the ultimate shear strengths of such beams can be predicted with reasonable accuracy by using a simple structural idealization. The idealization was based on pilot tests on 24 beams, but has now been checked against a further 32 tests covering a much wider range of web openings and web-reinforcement patterns. An improved shear strength equation is presented and design hints are given.