COMMUNICATION, COORDINATION AND CONCRETE PROBLEMS

Abstract

Several classes of problems observed in reinforced concrete (including prestressed/post-tensioned and precast) design, detailing, fabrication and construction are identified and examined via examples. These problems are not always technically complex or unusual. From the perspective of a forensic engineer, these kinds of problems do not result simply from a single error in design, detailing, fabrication or construction. Rather, these problems have a common feature: they might have been avoided by improved coordination and communication on the design/construction team: architect, structural engineer, other engineers, detailers, fabricators and constructors. The recurrence of such problems in concrete construction can be avoided by improved communication and coordination by the design/construction team. Types of problems examined include: rebar design, detailing and placement; congested rebar; rebar stacking; rebar conflicts with embedded items; coordination of architectural details; concrete mix design specifications; and prestressed / precast / post-tensioned details. Technical solutions for resolution of these problems are given, and recommendations are made for improved design, detailing, construction and overall project management practices. Such basic improvements in communication and coordination have the potential to reduce the occurrence of both premature deterioration and structural failures in concrete construction, and further to enhance the quality and reliability of concrete construction in the future. As concrete technology advances and concrete performance reaches new and higher levels, it is important to reintroduce excellence in the fundamentals of coordination and communication within the design/construction team. INTRODUCTION REINFORCING STEEL DESIGN AND DETAILING PRACTICES CONCRETE MIX DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS COORDINATION OF ARCHITECTURAL DETAILS PRESTRESSED / PRECAST CONCRETE DESIGN DETAILS AND FABRICATION PROCEDURES SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS