What is Inverted Beam?
A reinforced concrete beam with different types of beam shapes like I beam, T Beam, L beam, etc. The height of this beam is the same as the normal height of a beam. It forms an essential part of modern reinforced concrete framed structures.
Strict and rigid architectural considerations led to the establishment of inverted beams.
Inverted beams are the same as upstanding beams; it is used for headroom clearance.
If there is a restriction on maintaining a certain level of beams due to reasons like aesthetics/maintenance purposes, the level of the beam is increased.
Usage of Inverted Beam:
Inverted Beams are used to spreading the concentrated load of the beam on the slab area, originated from a flat slab concept.
Usage in Buildings:
Inverted beams are inserted over the slab where the slab flat is considerable. Provided as the main beam, gives a neat and level ceiling surface that’s good for the look.
Designing an Inverted Beam:
The design is the same as a conventional beam, with a restricted depth and shouldn’t be greater than the thickness of the slab.
Therefore, increasing the reinforcement ratio and width of the beam is significant to overcome the restriction to a certain degree.
Why to use Inverted Beam:
- Used to disband loads imposed on the slab.
- Allows use of greater span for the slab.
- Serves architectural aesthetic purposes in the building interior.
- To break a wide panel of a slab into substantial size.
- Improve architectural aesthetic appearance by providing neat and levelled ceiling bottom surface.
- Saves floor height clearance.
- Allows construction of brickwork over the slab.
Advantages of Uses of Inverted Beam in construction structure:
The inverted beam has several advantages:
1. Providing inverted beam floor height can be achieved.
2. Clears the way for electromechanical duct-work, and also the aesthetic appearance of the building.
3. Applicable to industrial, commercial buildings.