Observations on the grillage analysis of slabs

The results of the analyses of three slabs using the grillage analogy (with various methods for approximating the equivalent grillage members properties) and finite element analysis are compared with theoretical solutions, where available. The examples demonstrate some of the disadvantages of using the grillage analogy for analysing slabs which can lead to erroneous results. It is concluded that the use of finite element analysis is preferred and that the use of the grillage method should be avoided.

Stuart R. Gordon, BSc, MSc, CEng, MICE Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh
Prof. Ian M. May, BEng, MSc, PhD, CEng, FIStructE, FICE Professor of Civil Engineering, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh