Loadbearing Architectural Precast Concrete Wall Panels

Abstract

Architectural precast concrete wall panels that act as loadbearing elements in a building are both a structurally efficient and economical means of transferring floor and roof loads through the structure and into the foundation. In many cases, this integration can also simplify construction and reduce costs. This article presents the many benefits that can be derived from using loadbearing architectural precast concrete walls in buildings. Discussed herein are the various shapes and sizes of wall panels, major design considerations, and when loadbearing or shear wall units should be the first design choice. The role of connections, shear walls, and the use of precast concrete as forms for cast-in-place concrete is explained. In general, the design methods and techniques presented in this article apply to buildings in both seismic and non-seismic areas. The latter part of this article shows how these design principles can be applied in practice in a variety of buildings. These examples illustrate the use of window wall panels, spandrels, and solid or sandwich wall panels as the loadbearing wall members. When all the advantages of using architectural precast concrete as loadbearing walls are added up, it makes good sense to use this structural form in building applications.