Concrete Beams in Slab and Beam Frame Construction

Are concrete beams in slab and beam frame construction required to be closely spaced to support thin slabs?

True or False?

Answer:

The given statement is False.

Slabs in a slab and beam frame construction can be as thin as 2 inches. While the concrete beams in this type of construction do support the thin slabs, they do not necessarily have to be closely spaced. In fact, the purpose of the beams in slab and beam frame construction is to distribute the load from the slab to the supporting columns or walls.

The beams act as structural members that span between the columns or walls, providing additional support and helping to distribute the load evenly. They are responsible for transferring the loads from the slab to the columns or walls, reducing the span of the slab and preventing excessive deflection or sagging.

The spacing of the beams in a slab and beam frame construction is determined by various factors, including design requirements, load considerations, and engineering calculations. The beams are typically spaced at intervals based on structural design considerations, rather than solely on the thickness of the slab.

Therefore, the statement that the concrete beams must be closely spaced to provide adequate support to the thin slab is false. The spacing of the beams is based on structural engineering principles and considerations, taking into account the anticipated loads and design requirements.

Thus, the correct option is False.