Moody Chart | Moment Reactions for Rectangular Plates |

Introduction to Moody’s Chart for Slab Design

Moody’s Chart is an essential tool used in structural engineering for the analysis and design of two-way reinforced concrete slabs. It offers a graphical solution to determine moment coefficients for slabs with various support conditions, such as simply supported, fixed, or a combination of both. These charts were developed by Prof. H.C. Moody and are widely referenced in slab design procedures, especially under uniformly distributed loads.


🔹 What is Moody’s Chart?

Moody’s Chart is a graphical representation that provides moment distribution coefficients for slabs based on:

  • Aspect ratio (a/b) – the ratio of shorter to longer span of the slab
  • Support condition – whether edges are fixed, simply supported, or continuous

It simplifies the manual calculation of bending moments (Mx and My) in both directions of a slab panel, making the design process quicker and accurate.


🔹 Key Concepts:

  1. Aspect Ratio (a/b):
    • A critical input for using the chart.
    • For a/b ≤ 2, the slab is considered two-way.
    • For a/b > 2, it is one-way, and Moody’s chart is not typically used.
  2. Moment Coefficients:
    • The chart gives Mx and My (coefficients for short and long spans).
    • These are multiplied by w⋅l2w \cdot l^2w⋅l2 (where www = UDL, lll = shorter span) to calculate design bending moments.
  3. Support Conditions:
    • Charts are available for:
      • All edges simply supported
      • All edges fixed
      • Two adjacent edges fixed and two simply supported
      • One long edge discontinuous, others fixed/supported
    • Correct selection is key to accurate results.
  4. Triangular and Trapezoidal Load Cases:
    • Apart from UDL, Moody’s chart also includes moment coefficients for non-uniform loads, like triangular distribution.

🔹 Why Use Moody’s Chart?

  • Saves time compared to FEM or matrix analysis
  • Accurate for standard slab configurations
  • Preferred in manual design and educational settings
  • Compatible with IS 456:2000 and other codes

✅ Conclusion:

Moody’s chart remains a reliable and practical approach for initial and final design of two-way slabs. When combined with good engineering judgment and code checks, it delivers efficient and safe slab designs for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

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