Steel Detailing | Precast Detailing

Category: Precast Blogs

Blog about techniques and tools used in Precast Detaling

  • PRECAST PANEL TO PANEL CONECTIONS USING TEMPORARY PLATE    

    INTRODUCTION :

    To explain the application and detailing requirements of temporary loose plate connections used in precast panel-to-panel joints. This document outlines the types of connections (parallel and corner), their structural purpose during erection, and their specific use in warehouse and multistorey buildings. It also highlights the importance of accurate detailing for cast-in ferrules and placement considerations to avoid clashes with structural elements like roof steel.

    The plate connection used in Precast Panel to Panel connection depends on weight, wind, loading, and shape. The plate also contributes to the additional strength of the panels.

    These connections are used after erection, as they are already structural connections at the panel bottom (grout tube with dowel bars), along with the brace connection. After that, an additional temporary plate is connected from panel to panel for extra strength.

    THE LOOSE PLATE TYPE OF CONNECTION:

    1. Panel to panel (Parallel).
    2. Perpendicular panel with corner connection.

    This type of connection is commonly used for panel-to-panel connections.

    1.PANEL TO PANEL (PARALLEL):

    2.PERPENDICULAR PANEL TO PANEL CONNECTIONS AT CORNER JOINT

    APPLICATIONS:

    WAREHOUSE BUILDING CONDITION.

    The panel-to-panel connection adds additional strength and also helps with propping.

    The loose plate connects to the panel surface with the help of cast-in ferrules.

    This type of connection is mostly used in warehouse projects, and the plate is usually not removed after erection.

    The detailer should provide exact locations with dimensions for cast-in ferrules. For example, refer to the drawing below.

    This type of connection is placed inside the building to avoid affecting the exterior appearance.

    MULTISTORE BUILDING.

    Basically, precast panel-to-panel connections involve steel loose plate connections to support the erection process. Mostly, this type of plate connection is temporary.

    Once the precast wall is erected, the loose plate is connected to the cast-in ferrules with the support of propping.

    Once panel erection is completed, the loose plate will be removed. The main reason for removing the plate is to achieve the panel finish.

    This type of connection is placed inside the building to avoid affecting the exterior appearance.

    NOTES:

        Generally, position all precast connections below the roof steel to avoid clashes with any roof steel works. When placed above the roof steel, they may interfere with the installation or alignment of roof components.

  • TYPES OF MODEL VIEWERS FORMAT , PURPOSE AND ITS BENFITS

    A. IFC Mode

    Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) is an open file format developed by Building Smart Alliance. It is an international data exchange standard for exchanging building information across different software platforms. An IFC Model is just a model of a building or a construction project with all geometric, structural, and semantic information.

    Key Features of IFC Models:

    • Open Standard: IFC is vendor-independent, i.e., any software that supports it can be accessed, without regard for the vendor.
    • Static Data Exchange: It is mostly utilized for data exchange between software tools, data import, and export. For instance, an architect can create a model using Revit and export it as an IFC file, which can then be imported into structural engineering software like Tekla or SAP2000.
    • Limitation of Real-Time Coordination: IFC files are representations of the model at a specific moment. Changes in one application are not duplicated in another except where the file is re-exported and re-imported.
    • Use Cases:
    • Exchange of models between stakeholders with various software.
    • Ensuring interoperability in interdisciplinary projects (e.g., construction, engineering, and architecture).

    Advantages of IFC Models:

    • Encourages collaboration and interoperability in BIM workflows.
    • Reduces errors by making sure all stakeholders are working from the same information.
    • Allows clash detection and coordination between different disciplines.

    B.  Live Link Model Viewer

                      A Live Link Model Viewer is software that enables real-time sharing and visualization of BIM models on various software platforms. Unlike IFC models, which are pre-exported static files, a Live Link Model Viewer enables multiple users to work on the same model at the same time using different software programs. Common examples of Live Link Model Viewers are:

    Revit Live: A cloud-based collaboration platform by Autodesk.

    Trimble Connect: A BIM data management and sharing tool.

    Key Features of Live Link Model Viewers:

    1. Real-Time Collaboration: One software application’s changes are reflected immediately in the model viewer and other linked applications.
    • Dynamic Data Sharing: Unlike static IFC files, Live Link Model Viewers offer dynamic, real-time linking between software applications.
    • Multi-User Collaboration: Multiple stakeholders can view and edit one model at the same time even though they are in different software.
    • Use Cases:
    • Real-time collaboration among architects, engineers, and contractors.
    • Collaborative design review and clash detection.
    • Smooth communication between teams working on different software platforms.

    Advantages of Live Link Model Viewer Benefits:

    • Make collaboration more effective and faster.
    • Eliminate the need for repeated file imports and exports.
    • Enhance accuracy by getting the entire team to work on the current version of the model.

  • Decjuba stair balustrade

    Decjuba stair balustrade

  • Precast Material Take Off

    Estimate precast concrete panels for your quotes

    Tek1 provides material take off for precast panels.

    Deliverables for Precast MTO

    • Marked up elevation and Plans
    • Panel break ups considering
      • minimization of mould sizes.
      • Transportation constraints
      • Lifting constraints at factory and site.
      • Buildability
    • Concrete volume
    • Painting requirements
    • Reckli requirements
    • Mould requirements
    • Reo Weights
    • Lifters
    • Cast in Plates
    • Grout tubes.
    • Mesh (Not sq m of Mesh, but based of how many sqm of Mesh to cover N panels)
    • Rebar schedule
      • Not every panel is estimated for rebar. Typical panels are calculated and applied across similar.
    • Quick turn around.

    Note

    We do not include ferrules in the take off.

  • KAMAY FERRY-LA PEROUSE WHARF

    KAMAY FERRY-LA PEROUSE WHARF

    This was a complex project, but we successfully delivered it. Our scope included the balustrade around the bridge, which needed to be provided in multiple panels. By utilizing advanced modeling techniques, we were able to complete it within a significantly shorter timeline.

    Since the structure is above the sea, we provided several cost-saving ideas for both erection and fabrication to optimize the process.

    This was drawn by Tek1 (Vignesh), if you want shop drawings for a project you are working on, feel free to call Koshy on: (03) 9560 6397.

  • Absolute minimum Anchor Spacing

    Please note that the spacing and edge distances given in the ferrule tables is for design purposes only and not a minimum for actual installation. That is the dimensions given are for each insert to achieve 100% capacity. They can be placed closer. It just means their combined capacity will be reduced. The same is for drilled and epoxied bars.

  • Technical drawing standards for certain clients.

    Please refer to the following techical standards for one of our clients.

    Use this document as check list

  • The Power of Coordination: Elevating Project Success with Steel & Precast Alignment

    The Power of Coordination: Elevating Project Success with Steel & Precast Alignment

    🚀 The Power of Coordination: Elevating Project Success with Steel & Precast Alignment 🌟

    In complex construction projects, effective collaboration between steel and precast detailing teams is crucial. Proper coordination ensures smooth project workflows, minimizes delays, and reduces unnecessary costs, ultimately benefiting the client. During our recent team meeting, we explored specific challenges and solutions for optimizing the coordination process.

    Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the key strategies discussed, along with insights into how we plan to implement them for better efficiency.

    1. Clear Communication on Structural Changes

    • Challenges: Both the steel and precast teams base their work on structural and consultant drawings, but adjustments often arise during the practical implementation. These changes can significantly impact project timelines if they aren’t communicated promptly.
    • Solution: Any modifications in the steel model must be shared with the precast team, allowing them to update their model and drawings accordingly. This is essential to avoid rework and maintain alignment. Our MD emphasized the importance of discussing changes before implementation and ensuring they are approved to minimize unnecessary adjustments.

    2. Model & RFI Exchange Protocols

    • Issue: Delays can occur when teams do not exchange their models and RFI’s efficiently, leading to inconsistencies between steel and precast elements.
    • Solution: To streamline coordination, the precast team should provide the completed model to the steel team, and vice versa. Regular model and RFI’s exchanges help both teams stay in sync and prevent potential clashes in the final stages of detailing.

    3. Setting and Meeting ETA Expectations

    • Importance: The steel team coordinator or the precast team should actively communicate expected completion dates. This mutual accountability is essential to ensure each team is working on schedule.
    • Proposed Workflow: Establishing ETA checkpoints and regular updates will keep both teams informed and accountable, promoting smoother project progression.

    Consequences of Poor Coordination

    When coordination is inadequate, the project risks delays and escalated costs. Here are some potential pitfalls if best practices aren’t followed:

    • Project Delays: Misaligned timelines between steel and precast can cause setbacks, leading to extended project durations.
    • Waste of Resources: Inefficient communication can lead to rework, wasting valuable time and effort.
    • Unplanned Variations: When models are not aligned, variations can arise, leading to costly adjustments for the client.

    Our Key Directives for Improved Coordination

    Highlighted the following directives to improve coordination between steel and precast:

    • Establish Clear Responsibilities:
      It’s essential to specify in the initial RFI who will handle the steel detailing and who will coordinate between the two teams. Clear assignments will create a smoother workflow and enhance accountability.
    • Confirm Internal or External Steel Detailing:
      Knowing whether steel detailing will be done in-house or by an external party ensures everyone is aligned on responsibilities, reducing potential workflow disruptions.
    • Reduce Rework Through Precise Coordination:
      By following these practices, we can eliminate rework and improve project efficiency.

    Future Blog Insights:
    Benefits of In-House Steel and Precast Detailing

    Finally concluding thoughts highlighted the advantages of having both steel and precast detailing by Inhouse. Should the precast team win the job, they can propose in-house steel detailing as well. This approach offers several benefits, which we’ll explore in-depth in our next blog. Stay tuned for more insights on how integrated in-house detailing can drive smoother workflows, lower costs, and ultimately enhance project success.

    Final Thoughts

    Effective coordination between steel and precast teams is foundational to project success. With clear communication protocols, responsibility assignments, and regular model exchanges, we can set a new standard for collaborative project workflows. By continuing to improve these processes, we aim to offer clients timely, cost-effective, and high-quality detailing solutions.

  • Changes in Consultant drawings between Quotation stage to the Project stage? You must check: here’s why…

           It is essential to cross-check the revised consultant drawings we receive against the original drawings from the Quotation stage before commencing the project because this may affect prices.

    For example, the panel break up, or the panel specs might have changed. If they have changed, this might have a material impact on price such as concrete and reinforcement cost.

    What should we do when they make changes?

    1. Check the consultant drawing revisions and their date (between the quotation and the current stage).

    For example:

    2. Highlight the changes that occurred and mark them down in the latest structural PDF.

    For Example:

    3. Prepare a summary document report outlining the modifications.

    For Example:

    4. Inform the precast manufacturer and builder about these changes by sending the relevant information via email.

    For Example:

    Why do we need to check the consultant drawings?

         This verification process will enable the precast manufacturer and builder to re-evaluate the timeline based on the information that was previously quoted. This allows potential Cost issues that could cause confusion or delays in the project timeline to be identified and resolved early on such as

    • Cost estimation of individual precast panels, including their respective panel areas and concrete volumes, for manufacture.
    • Cost estimation of approximate reinforcement and mesh weight requirements.
    • List of cast-in items and loose items required, approximate quantities.

    What are the key factors that need to be verified in the consultant drawings from a precast perspective?

    1. Panel Thickness and Types: Verify the panel thickness and types used, as specified in the Structural Drawings.

    2. Panel Count: Confirm the panel count based on the panel split, as detailed in the Structural Drawings.

    3. Panel Transportability and Tonnage: Conduct a transportability check and verify the tonnage of the panels from our end.

    4. Panel Reinforcement:

    • Perimeter bar diameter
    • Mesh type used and its placement
    • Additional reinforcement provided in the panel typical detail
    • Reinforcement on central or either side ( specify location)
      (Refer to Structural Drawings for details)

    5. Precast Wall Pattern and Special Moulds: Verify the precast wall pattern and special moulds required, as specified in the Architectural Drawings.

    6. Panel Finish: Confirm the panel finish, as specified in the Architectural Drawings.

    7. Panel Connection Details: Verify the panel connection details, if applicable, as specified in the Structural Drawings