Structures should be designed and constructed to resist loading combinations under these limit states.

ULS = ULS is used to design for safety of the building’s users and occupants and for structural stability. ULS limit states include stability (overturning, sliding), deformation, rupture and fracture.

SLS = SLS is used to design for the structure’s performance, structural appearance, and the comfort of the structure’s users and occupants. The structure should be checked against deflection limits, durability, and vibration and noise effects so that the building finishes, ceilings, cladding systems, and the performance and comfort of the building will not be damaged.

We have listed the most common values used for weights and densities and material properties and types required for the use of scheme designs.

Weights & Densities

Water = 10 kN/m^3

Soil = 20 kN/m^3

Mass concrete = 20 kN/m^3

Lightweight concrete = 18 kN/m^3

Stone cladding = 1.2 kPa

Facade (curtain walls) = 1.0 kPa

Services attached to ceiling = 0.5 kPa

Partitions = 4.5 kPa

Car parking (mostly for kerbs) = 0.5 kPa

Partial Safety Factors

γm = 1.50 for concrete

γm = 1.15 for steel

​Concrete

Grade 40

Strength fcu = 40 N/mm^2

Density = 24.5 kN/m^3

Reinforcement

Type II high yield deformed bar

Grade 460

Strength fy = 460 N/mm^2

Links

Mild Steel

Grade 250

Strength fy = 250 N/mm^2