Chapter 7 - Novel pipe rack frames with rigid joints

Abstract

Pipe racks are open-frame structures with braces that are adopted for the modular construction. In some applications, the steel pipe racks are encased in concrete for fire protection; however, this is not designed to offer structural support. Innovative novel frames for pipe racks are suggested in this chapter: pipe rack frame using the steel-concrete hybrid composite frames with the monolithic rigid beam-column connections; frame with the mechanical joints having detachable laminated joints with assembly and disassembly capability to cope with sudden design changes; or pipe rack structure implementing prestressed precast frames. The braces, which were inevitable with steel pipe rack frames having pinned joints, are removed with rigid joints. The proposed fast track method can even remove the necessity for correcting frames when the needs for the design changes arise. The proposed hybrid rigid frames may replace the steel frames for the offsite modular construction with facile assembly/disassembly capability.