Sessions & Events

New and Updated Examples for Design Using the Strut-and-Tie Method, Part 1 of 2

Wednesday, October 29, 2025  8:30 AM - 10:30 AM, H - Holiday 3

This session will review updates to PRC-445.2-21: Strut-and-Tie Method Guidelines, which will include general updates as well as updates to conform to ACI 318-25. The session will also feature both new and updated design examples using the strut-and-tie method.

Learning Objectives:
(1) Discuss the application of the latest ACI requirements for design of deep beams using the strut-and-tie method;
(2) Discuss the application of the latest ACI requirements for design of column corbels using the strut-and-tie method;
(3) Discuss the application of the latest ACI requirements for design of high walls with openings using the strut-and-tie method;
(4) Discuss the application of the latest ACI requirements for design of transfer girders using the strut-and-tie method.

This session has been approved by AIA and ICC for 2 PDHs (0.2 CEUs). Please note: You must attend the live session for the entire duration to receive credit. On-demand sessions do not qualify for PDH/CEU credit.

Deep Beam Design: Updated for ACI 318-25

Presented By: Nancy Varney
Affiliation: Northeastern University
Description: A deep beam spanning 20 ft (6.10 m) is designed using the strut-and-tie method according to ACI 318-25. The beam carries to concentrated loads at the third points. The example illustrates design for development of two layers of hooked bars at the bottom of the beam.

Corbel at Column: Updated for ACI 318-25

Presented By: Daniel Kuchma
Affiliation: Tufts University
Description: A single corbel projecting from a square column is designed using the strut-and-tie method according to ACI 318- 25. The corbel supports a precast beam reaction. The example includes design of unidirectional strut reinforcement.

High Wall with Two Openings: Updated for ACI 318 25

Presented By: Robert W. Barnes
Affiliation:
Description: The example shows design of a 16-in. (405-mm) wall with a height of 53 ft (16.3 m) and two openings. The design is carried out in accordance with ACI 318-25.Separate strut-and-tie models are required for each of the five load cases.

Pile Cap: Updated for ACI 318-25

Presented By: Andrew Stam
Affiliation: Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates
Description: The example illustrates use of strut-and-tie models for design of a pile cap in accordance with ACI 318-25. Two load cases are cases are considered 1) axial load only, and 2) combined axial load and overturning moment. A comparison to sectional design is provided.

Hammerhead Bent Cap: Updated for ACI 318-25

Presented By: Robin Tuchscherer
Affiliation: Northern Arizona University
Description: The design of a hammerhead bent cap is is updated in accordance with ACI 318-25. The bent cap is 29 ft (8.84 m) wide and 6.25 ft (1.91 m) deep at the pier. Alternative designs using a single-panel and two-panel truss in each cantilever are compared.

Transfer Girder with Asymmetric Loading: Updated for ACI 318-25

Presented By: Adam Lubell
Affiliation: Read Jones Christoffersen Ltd.
Description: A transfer girder with an 18.67-ft (5.69-m) span is designed to provide column-free space in a hotel conference room at the second floor. The girder supports uniform floor load and a concentrated column load. Two alternative designs in accordance with ACI 318-25 are compared.