Q1: Side face reinforcement shall be provided in the beam when depth of the web in a beam exceeds

ANS:B - 75 cm

Side face reinforcement, also known as shear reinforcement or stirrups, is an essential component in reinforced concrete beams. Its primary function is to enhance the shear capacity of the beam by resisting diagonal tension forces that develop in the concrete near the supports or regions of high shear. When a beam is subjected to loading, shear stresses develop along the diagonal planes within the concrete. These shear stresses tend to cause diagonal cracking, which can lead to structural failure if not adequately addressed. Side face reinforcement helps prevent or control these diagonal cracks by providing additional resistance to shear forces. The need for side face reinforcement typically arises when the depth of the web, which refers to the vertical distance between the top and bottom flanges of the beam, exceeds a certain threshold. This threshold is determined based on engineering principles and is often specified in design codes and standards. When the depth of the web exceeds a certain value, usually around 50 cm (or 500 mm), the shear stresses become significant enough to warrant the inclusion of side face reinforcement. This depth threshold indicates that the beam is relatively deep, and the shear forces experienced by the beam are likely to be substantial. Therefore, engineers design and detail side face reinforcement in beams with deep webs to ensure structural safety and integrity. The side face reinforcement typically consists of vertical stirrups placed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the beam at regular intervals along its length. These stirrups help distribute the shear forces and prevent the development of diagonal cracks, thus enhancing the overall shear capacity and ductility of the beam. In summary, side face reinforcement is provided in beams with deep webs, typically when the depth of the web exceeds around 50 cm, to enhance their shear capacity and prevent shear failure. It is an essential aspect of reinforced concrete beam design, ensuring the structural integrity and safety of the overall structure.