Is it composite?
Is it composite?
(OP)
The project consists of adding new ceiling hung medical equipment on the ground floor of a hospital. The building was apparently built in the 1920s, and of course there are no as-built drawings. The existing floor framing above consists of a concrete slab supported on steel beams. The concrete slab was constructed using hollow clay tile in an arch as the forms. The steel beams are at 8 feet spacing. The concrete slab is 4" thick at the midpoint between the beams and 7" thick at the beams, encasing the top flange with 2" +/- of concrete. I know this is not an encased beam, but could this be considered a composite beam? Any input is welcome. Thanks.






RE: Is it composite?
Incidentally, there are several articles written on how to make existing systems composite with totally tearing everything up. See the AISC Journals.
RE: Is it composite?
Thanks for you response. I have also asked this question to AISC and they said that it is not considered composite according to latest codes. One book that I have that deals with structural renovations, suggests coring the slab above the beam and welding shear studs to the top flange to make it composite. I have a space limitation below the beam, so I this is my only practical option, unless someone has any other ideas.
RE: Is it composite?
I should think you would still have to run some type of a load test if you go the core slab/install stud route.
Just a thought!
RE: Is it composite?
The coring and welding of studs or channels to the beam is common and is treated from a theoretical standpoint in the AISC Engineering journal - not Modern Steel Construction.
Unless specifically stated in a code, I don't see why this method should require additional load testing.
Additionally, this method is employed sans coring/drilling with precast deck beams often and the holes are grouted afterward.