Precast Concrete Frames Guide

Precast Concrete Frames Guide

Introduction

Precast concrete framed construction is well established as one of the principal construction methods in Europe. In Ireland, the precast industry has built a close working relationship with developers, offering practical advice and a range of technical services at design and construction stages.

Precast manufacturers have a critical role to play in the proper planning and execution of precast buildings. Involving the precaster at the early design stage is the best way to achieve the most economical building solution. Early involvement also allows the manufacturer to schedule production so as to maximise cost savings brought about by the use of standardised components and early completion.

Precast concrete buildings previously had an identifiable appearance. However, with advances in technology and technique, precast buildings are now indistinguishable from those constructed using non-precast methods. Designers no longer work within tight constraints. Increasingly, the situation is that precasters are able to accommodate greater variety and complexity, effectively designing their elements to meet design requirements. Continuous investment and innovations have transformed the precast industry so that complex plan layouts and external treatments can now be accommodated.

Organic designs can be achieved using standardised precast components. The use of standardised components does not imply a modular appearance. Nowadays, precast elements, including floors, stairs and wall panels combine seamlessly with non-precast elements to produce free-flowing spaces. Curved precast panels with a variety of highly attractive and durable finishes can be manufactured to meet the most challenging design requirements.

Precast concrete can now be incorporated in every building type. Whether the building has a regular or an irregular shape, the entire structure or elements of that structure, such as frame, floors, walls, stairs or balconies, can all be precast. Precast construction is virtually unlimited in its application and is suitable for single and multi-storey construction. Offices and hotels are commonly constructed in precast, as are hospitals, schools, industrial units and multi-storey car parks, apartments and housing. In fact, precast building elements should be considered as an option on every construction project.

The most common error is to take an "all precast or no precast approach" to design.

In fact, a key issue for designers is to identify which construction method, or mix of construction methods and materials is most appropriate for the specific requirements of the building.

The most economical solution might well consist of a mix of cast in situ and factory assembled units. Preliminary structural investigation may identify solutions such as beams and floor slabs fabricated off site being erected on cast in situ columns. These structural elements are then integrated as a composite structure when the floor screed is poured. The proper investigation of construction options at the early design stage is critical to optimising structural performance and delivering the most economical building package.

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Precast Concrete Structures introduces the subject in detail, looking at the design process, manufacture and construction using precast concrete for multi-storey buildings. Detailed structural analysis of the material and its use is provided. The theory is supported by practical case studies, worked examples and explanatory illustrations throughout.

Endorsed by the British Precast Concrete Federation and written by an acknowledged authority, this is the first book to explain and educate the student in the uses and advantages of precast concrete.