Spandrel Beam

What is Spandrel Beam?

Spandrel beam is built along the circumferences of the slab. It is built along the external wall. Spandrel beam is also known as edge beam.

Spandrel Beam

Why Spandrel Beam is Provided in the Slab?

A spandrel beam is provided in the slab when walls are not able to bear the weight of the slab or floor. This type of beam is provided along the perimeter of the roof to support the wall load and little roof load also.

Spandrel beam is mostly provided in R.C.C. buildings or multi-story buildings. They increase the stiffness of the building.

Features of Spandrel Beam:

Some features of spandrel beam are as follows:

  • It is constructed along with the slab of the building.
  • It carries a wall load and transferred it to the column.
  • Spandrel beam constructed only to carry the load of the exterior wall.

Advantages of Spandrel Beam:

  • Spandrel beams enhance the lateral stability of the building.
  • It increases the stiffness of the structure.
  • It increases the stability against seismic force.

Disadvantages of Spandrel Beam:

  • Spandrel beams are exposed to the external environment.
  • Corrosion can occur due to moisture content in the atmosphere.

Applications of Spandrel Beam:

  • It is used to transfer the load of the exterior wall of the building to the columns.
  • It is most commonly used in high-rise buildings.
  • It used to increase performance against the seismic load.

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