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Difference Between One-Way Slab and Two-Way Slab
A one-way slab is a reinforced concrete slab that can bend and transfer loads in one direction. The one-way slab is used to support the load on two opposite sides from the beams or walls. In this case, the distribution of the load has been done in one single direction and the slab has been supported on two opposite sides. The beam width-to-depth ratio has been increased in the one-way slab and the amount of steel perpendicular to the bending direction helps to make the one-way slab more economical rather than the two-way slab.
The structural architecture of the one-way slab has been made by considering several factors which include:
- Calculating the bending moment of the slab.
- Calculating the load.
- The kind and distribution of the reinforcement steel.
- The flexure and deflection depths are acceptable.
Different types of One-Way slab
The one-way slabs have been classified into three different types which are as follows:
One-way solid slab with beams
In these types of one-way slabs, the beams are used to support the slabs. This slab system has been created for handling various types of load conditions on the basis of the arrangement of the columns and beams.
One-way ribbed slab
These types of one-way slabs have been used in low-rise office buildings, warehouses and parking garages.
One-way ribbed slab with integral beams
These types of one-way slabs have a broader span as compared to solid slabs. These types of slabs are cost-effective while used as prefabricated or modular structures.
Advantages of using One-Way Slab in the Construction site
The benefits of using a one-way slab are:
- The one-way slab is less expensive as less concrete and steel reinforcement is required in the one-way slab.
- The construction process of the one-way slab is faster and simpler as it only requires support on two opposing sides.
- One-way slabs are suitable for small spans in which loads have been applied largely in one direction so these types of slabs are useful for industrial and residential buildings.
Concept about Two-Way Slab
The two-way slabs bend in two directions which helps to transfer the load to all four sides of the slab. In this case, the distribution of the load enables the slabs to bear heavier loads as well as span larger areas as compared to the one-way slab. Two-way slab helps to provide structural stability to stand with the weight of furniture, people, equipment and other loads. The two-way slab has been utilised in multi-storey buildings as these slabs have the ability to span greater distances without any assistance.
Advantages of using Two-Way Slab in the Construction sector
There are numerous advantages of using two-wat slabs which include:
- The two-way slabs are more effective as they help to eliminate the requirements for columns and other types of supporting elements which helps to allow for more flexible and open floor patterns.
- These types of slabs are also adaptable and can be created in various types of sizes and forms which helps to satisfy the specific architectural designs.
- These types of slabs are also resilient to natural disasters including hurricanes and earthquakes as these slabs have been made to endure several strains and loads.
The main difference between One-Way Slab and Two-Way Slab
There are also some differences between one-way slabs and two-way slabs which are as follows:
The load transfer mechanism
In the one-way slabs, the main load has been transferred in one direction among the slabs. Two opposing supports are there in the form of walls or beams.
On the other hand, in two-way slabs, the load has been transferred along with two perpendicular directions. This indicates that overall stability can be possible within the wider spaces.
Reinforcement features
In the case of the one-way slabs, the strength has been provided by the main bars which run parallel to the shorter direction along with secondary reinforcement. This helps to produce strength only in one direction. In addition, the materials have been utilized in a better way for specific load orientations.
Whereas, in two-way slabs, the reinforcement has been found in both ways along with the main and distribution bars that intersect throughout the slabs. The comprehensive reinforcement in the two-way slab helps to balance the distribution of the load where the smaller areas have been subjected to the larger spaces. This helps to produce less possible cracking and deflection.
Supporting features
The one-way slabs have been supported on two opposite sides which is much easier to design, whereas, the two-way slab has been supported on four sides which enhances the structural strength of the slab.
Aspect ratio
On the basis of the aspect ratio, the one-way slab has been expressed as L ≥ 2W, in which, L is greater than the other spans and W is the lesser one. In this context, the lengthier side of the beam is significantly more as compared to the other shorter one which helps to justify the cause for the one-way nature of the load orientation.
In contrast, in the case of the two-way slab, the aspect ratio is about L < 2W. This balance helps to provide the ability of the slab to carry the loads evenly which makes it feasible for square layouts that are appropriate for uniform strength.
Different applications
On the basis of the applications, the one-way slabs are appropriate for narrow structures including footpaths, corridors, residential areas and others. The pone-way slab is simple in design which allows the speedy construction process.
On the other hand, two-way slabs are appropriate for open large areas including auditoriums, conference halls and commercial buildings. These types of slabs help to provide greater stability and have efficient load distribution ability over wider spans.
