Two-Way Joist Sizes Minimum Joist Depth

For Joist depth determination, waffle slabs are considered as flat slab (ACI, & 9.5.3). The
thickness of equivalent flat slab is taken from table 9.5 (c). The thickness of slab and depth of rib
of waffle slab can be then computed by equalizing the moment of inertia of equivalent flat slab to
that of waffle slab. However since this practice is time consuming, tables have been developed to
determine the size of waffle slab from equivalent flat slab thickness.

Equivalent Flat Slab Thickness

ACI 318-05 * Sect.9.5.3– Minimum thickness = ln/33

Minimum Joist Depth

Slab and rib depth from equivalent flat slab thickness

Minimum Sizes
Two-Way Joist Load Solid Head

Floor dead load for two-way joist with certain dome size, dome depth can be calculated from the
table shown for two options of slab thicknesses (3 inches and 4 ½ inches).
ACI Recommendations on Reinforcement Requirement of Waffle Slab

Recommendations for Ribs: ACI states that if the effective depth d of a beam or joist exceeds 36
inches, longitudinal skin reinforcement shall be provided as per ACI section

Recommendations for Slab: According to ACI, for cellular or ribbed construction reinforcement
shall not be less than the requirements of ACI 7.12. As per ACI 7.12, Spacing of top bars cannot
exceed 5h or 18 inches.