Discussion on Design Stresses for Concrete Structures Subject to Multiaxial Stresses by D.W. Hobbs,

Whilst I am a firm believer in the economy obtained by the intelligent use of grade 50 steel, the submission by Mr. Needham that the present cost differential is an extra £3.50 per tonne compared with grade 43 steel is somewhat misleading. This figure is applicable only when comparing the cost of grade 43A steel with that of grade 50A steel, and is thus limited only to certain rolled sections. Significant economy by the use of grade 50 steel with rolled steel sections is doubtful, especially where deflection is the criterion. When using structural hollow sections in lattice construction, where the maximum economy in weight is possible, it is necessary to compare the cost differential between grade 43C and grade 40C. This is, I am given to understand, as much as 50 per tonne depending on the sections used. B.J. Jessup

. . spare that tree Mr. C. G. H. Jofeh is clearly a man concerned about nature conservancy. He writes: I read with interest the letter from Mr. A. Billingham (November 78). What interested me was not the question of what the building regulations do or do not say, but the attitude of mind of the author that I inferred from what he said about the trees. Verulam

Design curves and formulae are presented for the calculation of deflections in reinforced concrete flexural members. These are based on the procedure given in appendix A of CP110 for direct calculation of curvatures and deflections due to short-term and long-term effects. Using the design curves as the basis, an estimate of the errors introduced by the simplifying assumptions presently used in deflection calculation is obtained, and the area of validity of these assumptions is defined. The need for a more realistic assessment of deflections and the use of the design curves are illustrated by an optimum design example. The advantage of the design formulae and the associated curves in deflection calculations is illustrated by considering a doubly reinforced member. D.J. Gunaratnam