question on the definition of Deep Beams 2

[user11596]

ACI 9.9.1.1

Deep beams are members that are loaded on one face and supported on the opposite face such that strut-like compression elements can develop between the loads and supports AND that satisfy (a) or (b):
(a) Clear span does not exceed four times the overall member depth h

(b) Concentrated loads exist within a distance 2h from the face of the support

First condition states some sort of loading setup which i need help in interpreting. Basically do a beam with a clear span < 4 times beam depth but is only loaded uniformly count as a deep beam and fall under the provision above?

 

[Lomarandil]

Yes, assuming the load is applied on the opposite face and in the direction toward the beam supports. (e.g. nearly all concrete beams, except some unique tension hanger arrangements).

 

[KootK]

Basically do a beam with a clear span < 4 times beam depth but is only loaded uniformly count as a deep beam and fall under the provision above?

I would say so yes.

First condition states some sort of loading setup which i need help in interpreting.

#MeToo. Frankly, I disagree with the statement and feel that the clause would have been better written without it. Having the loading and the supports on the same side of the supports creates a requirement for some kind of hanger situation. But, then, once that is properly detailed the beam may again qualify for deep beam treatment. It isn't at all the case that failing to meet the opposite face requirement means that deep beam treatment is in appropriate. The example I've shown below illustrates a beam that is not loaded on the opposite face but, obviously, still warrants strut and tie treatment.

(a) Clear span does not exceed four times the overall member depth h

(b) Concentrated loads exist within a distance 2h from the face of the support

Even those statement represent an unfortunate dumbing down of things for mass consumption. The more concise, and broadly applicable way to capture both of those statements would be "shear span < 2.0".