Structure 201101

®
STRUCTURE
Special Section: Anchors, Piers, Foundations
and Underground Construction
A Joint Publication of NCSEA | CASE | SEI
January 2011 Concrete

The Hollow Set Drop-In is specifically
designed and engineered for Sleeve available in Zamac alloy.
Cone available in carbon or
anchoring in hollow base materials stainless steel.
such as hollow concrete block, brick
with weep holes and precast hollow Zamac sleeve allows better
corrosion resistance. Great
core plank. It can also be used in solid for anchoring into thin wall
base materials, and is appropriate for base materials.
overhead applications.
Drill the appropriate size hole. Attach the anchor to the setting Anchor has been set. Put fixture in place and bolt in.
tool and tap into predrilled hole.
Turn the tool clockwise to
pre-expand the anchor. Unscrew Ultimate and Allowable Load Capacities for Hollow-Set Dropin
the setting tool and your anchor in Hollow Concrete Masonry1,2,3
is set.
Rod/ Minimum Drill f´m ≥ 1,500 psi (10.4 MPa)
Anchor Embedment Bit
Ultimate Load
Great For Diameter Depth Diameter Allowable Load
d hv dbit Tension Shear Tension She
Anchoring in.
(mm)
in.
(mm)
in. lbs.
(kN)
lbs.
(kN)
lbs.
(kN)
lbs
(kN
In Wall 1/4
(6.4)
7/8*
(22.2)
3/8 530
(2.4)
1,575
(7.1)
105
(0.5)
315
(1.4
Thickness 5/16
(7.9)
1*
(25.4)
5/8 1,035
(4.7)
1,815
(8.2)
205
(0.9)
365
(1.6
As Little 3/8
(9.5)
1*
(25.4)
5/8 1,225
(5.5)
2,485
(11.2)
245
(1.1)
495
(2.2
As 1”! 1/2
(12.7)
1 1/4*
(31.8)
3/4 1,790
(8.1)
3,655
(16.4)
360
(1.6)
730
(3.3
5/8 1 1/2* 1 1,790 3,740 360 750
(15.9) (38.1) (8.1) (16.8) (1.6) (3.4
1. Tabulated load values are applicable to anchors with carbon and stainless steel cones.
Powers Fasteners, Inc. 2. Tabulated load values are for anchors installed in minimum 6-inch wide, minimum Grade N, Type II, lightweight, medium-w
2 Powers Lane or normal-weight concrete masonry units conforming to ASTM C 90. Mortar must be minimum Type N. Masonry cells may
grouted. Masonry compressive strength must be at the specified minimum at the time of installation (f'm ≥ 1,500 psi).
Brewster, NY10509 3. Allowable load capacities listed are calculated using and applied safety factor of 5.0. Consideration of safety factors of 20
www.powers.com higher may be necessary depending upon the application such as life safety, and in sustained tensile loading applications.
*Anchors were installed with sleeve flush to face shell surface and with setting tool for hollow base materials.
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27
FEATURES
Shrinkage-Compensating
CONTENTS January 2011
Concrete in Post-Tensioned
Buildings – Part 2
By Kenneth B. Bondy, S.E.
COLUMNS
Case studies of four projects which demonstrate the effective
use of shrinkage-compensating concrete to mitigate restraint-to- 7 Editorial
shortening (RTS) cracking in post-tensioned concrete buildings. What Are Your New Year’s
Resolutions?
30 South Tower of the Milwaukee By John A. Mercer, Jr., P.E., SECB
City Hall – Part 2 9 InFocus

Remember the Hyatt
By Mark D. Webster, P.E., Gunjeet Juneja, P.E.
By Jon A. Schmidt, P.E., SECB
and Donald O. Dusenberry, P.E.
10 Building Blocks
After the completion of the Part 1 investigation, the City of
Steel or Synthetic Fiber
Milwaukee proceeded with design for the repairs of the
Reinforcement?
South Tower. The City quickly established a goal for the
By Pierre Rossi
repairs to last 100 years.
12 Codes and Standards
ACI 318 and Pile Stability
35 Anchors, Piers, Foundations and By Stephen P. Schneider, Ph.D.,
Special Underground Construction P.E., S.E. and C. Scott Branlund,
P.E., S.E.
Section By Larry Kahaner
16 Structural Practices
Although projects are not coming as plentiful as before the
Becoming a Results-Oriented
recession, foundation companies are seeing a slow but steady
Structural Engineer
improvement in the pace of inquiries, bids and projects.
Part 1
By John P. Miller, P.E., S.E.
ON COVER
®
STRUCTURE
THE 18 InSights
300 New Jersey Avenue is a 10-story concrete office building with an Glazing Retrofits for
Special Section: Anchors, Piers, Foundations
and Underground Construction
adjacent atrium and 6-story parking garage. It is the first commercial Blast Mitigation
office building designed and built in the United States by world By Jon A. Schmidt, P.E.,
renowned architectural firm, Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners. SECB, BSCP
A Joint Publication of NCSEA | CASE | SEI
The 300 New Jersey Avenue project was one of the 2010 NCSEA 22 Professional Issues
Excellence in Structural Engineering award winners. Sustainability and the
January 2011 Concrete
See the Spotlight article on page 51. Structural Engineer
By Zak Kostura, M.Eng, EIT and
Publication of any article, image, or advertisement in STRUCTURE® magazine does not constitute endorsement Jennifer Pazdon, EIT
by NCSEA, CASE, SEI, C 3 Ink, or the Editorial Board. Authors, contributors, and advertisers retain sole
responsibility for the content of their submissions. 42 Historic Structures
Critical Skills for Structural
DEPARTMENTS Engineers Encountering

Historic Structures
By Dr. Debra F. Laefer
24 Structural Performance 48 Legal Perspectives
Wood Pre-fabricated Shear Panels Dispute Resolution Techniques
for Lateral Force Resistance By David J. Hatem, PC IN EVERY ISSUE
By Renee Strand, P.E. and Jordan S. Rattray
6 Advertiser Index
44 Great Achievements 51 Spotlight
Charles Conrad Schneider The New DC: The Atrium at 300 50 Resource Guide
By Frank Griggs, Jr., Ph.D., P.E. New Jersey Avenue (Anchor Updates)
46 Product Watch By Azer Kehnemui, D. Sc., P.E.,
Hakan Onel P.E., S.E. 50 Noteworthy
SIPs Provide Green Building
and Rupa M. Patel 52 NCSEA News
Benefits in Traditional and
Cutting-Edge Designs 58 Structural Forum
54 SEI Structural Columns
By Joe Pasma, P.E. For the Love of the Profession
By Robert H. Lyon, P.E. 56 CASE in Point
Advertiser index PleAse suPPort these Advertisers
ADVERTISEMENT – For Advertiser Information, visit www.structuremag.org

Computers & Structures, Inc. ............... 60 KPFF Consulting Engineers .................. 47
CTS Cement Manufacturing Corp........ 23 MacLean-Dixie ..................................... 38
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Fyfe Co. LLC ........................................ 29 Monotube ............................................. 37 wind, seismic, snow and other loadings for
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Grip-Tite Manufacturing Co., LLC....... 36 NCEES ................................................... 8 these codes ($195.00).
Hayward Baker, Inc. .............................. 34 NCSEA/Kaplan Engineering Educ. ....... 15
ICC.................................................. 20-21 Pile Dynamics, Inc. ............................... 40 Tilt-up Concrete Wall Panels ($95.00).
Integrated Engineering Software, Inc..... 49 Powers Fasteners, Inc. .............................. 2 Floor Vibration for Steel Beams and Joists
onwide/ Irvine Institute of Technology.................. 6 RISA Technologies ................................ 59 ($100.00).
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Interactive Sales Associates
Chuck Minor Dick Railton
editorial Board Eastern Sales
847-854-1666
Western Sales
951-587-2982
Chair sales@StRuCtuREmag.org
ertisement.indd 1 Jon A. Schmidt,
11/8/2010 P.E.,
9:45:29SECB
AM
Burns & McDonnell, Kansas City, MO
chair@structuremag.org
editoriAL stAFF
Craig E. Barnes, P.E., SECB Mike C. Mota, P.E. Executive Editor Jeanne Vogelzang, JD, CAE
CBI Consulting, Inc., Boston, MA CRSI, Williamstown, NJ
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Richard Hess, S.E., SECB Evans Mountzouris, P.E. Editor Christine M. Sloat, P.E.
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STRUCTURE® (Volume 18, Number 1). ISSN 1536-4283.
Publications Agreement No. 40675118. Owned by the
Faculty Positions in Structural Engineering National Council of Structural Engineers Associations and
published in cooperation with CASE and SEI monthly by C3
The Department of Civil Engineering and Geological Sciences at the Ink. The publication is distributed free of charge to members
University of Notre Dame (www.nd.edu/~cegeos/) invites applications of NCSEA, CASE and SEI; the non-member subscription rate is
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$65/yr domestic; $35/yr student; $125/yr foreign (including

for faculty positions to complement the existing Structural Engineering
Canada). For change of address or duplicate copies, contact
group. Qualified candidates at all levels will be considered with hiring your member organization(s). Any opinions expressed in
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Successful candidates must hold a doctoral degree in an appropriate field necessarily reflect the views of NCSEA, CASE, SEI, C3 Ink, or the
and must demonstrate potential for high quality research and teaching. The department is seeking STRUCTURE Editorial Board.
outstanding faculty members with a research focus on, but not limited to: bridge engineering and STRUCTURE® is a registered trademark of National Council of
infrastructure systems, high-performance and sustainable civil structures, reliability and performance Structural Engineers Associations (NCSEA). Articles may not be
reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission
of structures under extreme loading, and foundation-structure interaction. Candidates for the of the publisher.
positions should be qualified to teach civil engineering courses, with a strong commitment to teaching
excellence at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Each successful faculty candidate is expected
to develop and sustain an externally funded research program and publish in leading scholarly National Council of Structural
journals. Applications should be submitted online at www.nd.edu/~struct as a single PDF with Engineers Associations
cover letter, detailed CV, statements of research and teaching, and names and contact information for
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STRUCTURE magazine 6 January 2011

editorial What Are Your New Year’s Resolutions?
new trends, new techniques and current industry issues
By John A. Mercer, Jr., P.E., SECB
I
am committed to cleaning up my desk sometime in 2011. I
How Structural Engineers Can Work Effectively with
cleaned it off sometime in 2010 and I was so proud. It lasted
Architects Who Use AIA C401
for a week or two, but it seems like one thing adds to another
and here we are again, buried in paper, books, and magazines. If your firm works as a sub-consultant to architects, examine
I’ve heard that a messy desk is a reflection of a creative mind. That CASE’s Commentary on AIA Document C401, the Standard Form of
gives me pause to consider whether or not I should even attempt Agreement Between Architect and Consultant. AIA Contract Document
to clean it. I can still find my pencils and pens, but where did I put C401 incorporates by reference AIA Contract Document B101, the
that job file…? Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Architect.
The only other issue that I am committed to is my continuing The interplay between C401 and B101 cannot be over-emphasized.
education. I am signed up to try some of the webinar approaches to Using C401 without understanding fully the interrelationships with
obtaining PDH’s, but I still look forward to traveling in February to B101 is a recipe for disaster. This presentation will cover how the
a southern location to spend a few days where there isn’t any snow or engineer’s rights and obligations are impacted by these two agreements
ice. I also get to see some of you there as well. (I live in the beautiful and CASE’s recommended provisions to include in your contract
state of North Dakota in case you were wondering.) with the architect.
I have a question for you. In your opinion, whose responsibility is
The Changing Face of Indemnity: Meaner and Uglier!
it to maintain your continuing education? Personally, I believe that
it is every engineer’s responsibility, not their employer’s. “A carpenter This program will present an overview of some recent California cases
without a hammer and saw doesn’t build much”. Some firms may having received national attention, which could present potentially
offer a policy to participate in partial or even full reimbursement for disastrous results for the engineering community. The program will
continuing education expenses as a part of their benefits program. conclude with a description of some legislative and practical efforts
Past experience has taught me that anyone considering starting to defend against this unfortunate tide.
their own firm should join ACEC and become a participating CASE
New Tools for Managing Risk and Project Implementation
member immediately. I joined ACEC for the insurance benefits when
I started my firm, but didn’t participate in any of the conventions The CASE Tool Kit Committee has developed a number of new
or other activities for the first 12 years of membership. I missed on tools that will be presented in this session. Developing a Culture of
many education opportunities, not counting the relationships and Quality provides a white paper and PowerPoint presentation used to
networking I’ve been able to establish with other engineers like your- engage firm leaders in a discussion about their firm culture and key
self. I discovered the true value of my membership to be centered in aspects that contribute to quality.
my participation in ACEC and CASE. A new tool on staffing projections provides a method for firms to
In the March 2008 STRUCTURE magazine Editorial, John project future revenues and staffing demands based on contract values
Grieshaber, P.E. discussed the issue of mandatory continuing education and potential work.
(MCE) requirements and listed states’ annual, biennial, or triennial Managing Computer Software Use provides a white paper on key
PDH requirements to maintain licensing. At the time of its writing, aspects and responsibilities of the project manager and principal in
33 out of 55 registration boards required continuing education. How charge relative to software use on projects.
many of your registrations require continuing education?
Lessons Learned from Arbitration, Mediation and Litigation
I encourage you to take advantage of the perfect storm currently
forming for CASE structural engineers to attend the CASE Winter A panel discussion will focus on applying lessons learned from the
Meeting, and leverage their travel expenses to stay on and attend the speakers’ involvement with arbitration,
NCSEA Winter Institute to be held in Jacksonville, FL at the end mediation and litigation. The speak-
®
of February 2011. ers, who are a practicing structural

structure
Now is a perfect time for CASE member firms and new structural engineer & arbitrator, an attorney
engineering firm principals to make plans to attend both meetings. specializing in construction law, and
a member benefit
Get a bigger bang for your buck by attending the CASE Winter a professional liability insurance agent,
meeting and NCSEA Winter Institute, and receive PDH continuing will share some of their own lessons
education credits for the presentations you attend. Look for dates, learned and anecdotes.
times and accommodations information in other sections of this and So there you have it. My winter and
future issues. early spring schedule is set. How about
Looking forward to 2011, a CASE Risk Management Convocation yours? I will look forward to meeting
will be held at the Structures Congress in Las Vegas in April 2011, you at one of our CASE meetings. Step STRUCTURAL
ENGINEERING
INSTITUTE
Don’t Gamble on your Future. CASE will discuss the following topics: forward and introduce yourself.▪

inFocus Remember the Hyatt
new trends, new techniques and current industry issues
By Jon A. Schmidt, P.E., SECB
A
rallying cry often serves to unite people behind a particular There is a more specific lesson to be learned as well. The fundamental
cause, especially in a time of war. Texans urged each other mistake in the case of the Hyatt failure was the design of the skywalk
to “Remember the Alamo!” During the Spanish-American hanger rod connections – or, rather, the fact that these connections
War, it was “Remember the Maine!” For World War II, the were never truly designed at all. The engineering team did not take
exhortation was to “Remember Pearl Harbor!” The objective in such any steps to ascertain the load capacity of the conceptual arrange-
cases was to highlight a particularly egregious offense committed by ment, and then overlooked it again when the fabricator proposed
the enemy – often whatever it was that provoked the conflict in the changing it during submittal review. In what we do for a living, the
first place. devil really is in the details.
Structural engineers should remind each other of certain past events What specific steps can we take to “Remember the Hyatt”? For one
for a different reason – we need to invoke occasions when our pre- thing, a non-profit organization, the Skywalk Memorial Foundation,
decessors, our colleagues, and we ourselves have made mistakes, so is currently raising funds for a permanent memorial to honor the
that hopefully we can avoid similar errors in the future. One such 114 people who perished and the 216 people who were injured by
case study is the collapse of the skywalks at the Hyatt Regency hotel the collapse – many of whom were permanently disabled – and to
in Kansas City, Missouri. This year will mark the 30th anniversary of recognize the emergency and medical personnel, firefighters, police
the deadliest structural engineering failure in United States history, officers, public servants, and others who bravely responded immedi-
which happened on July 17, 1981. ately afterwards. The site is a small tract of land donated by the City of
The details should be familiar to most of us already. The architect Kansas City in Hospital Hill Park, just east of the Hyatt facility itself.
wanted the walkways that traversed the main lobby to look as light The preliminary design, prepared by local architect Lorie Bowman,
and airy as possible, suspended by thin rods hanging down from the includes a series of concentric circles in an outdoor gathering space.
structural steel framing above. The preliminary drawings showed each The concrete plaza will have 114 LED pinlights in the inner circle
rod supporting the end of a box member formed by welding two and 216 pinlights in the next ring. The remaining bands of colored
channels together at the flange tips. The fourth floor walkway was concrete will have hundreds of additional lights in a more dispersed
directly above the second floor walkway, and the rods were depicted formation, to represent the families, the rescue workers, and those
as continuous, with nuts and washers at both levels. who suffered psychological trauma as a result of the tragedy. The
As the fast-track project proceeded, the fabricator notified the objective is to provide a place for quiet contemplation and small
engineering team that continuous rods would not be practical and gatherings, with lots of colorful landscaping; to celebrate the lives,
suggested, as an alternative, providing two separate rods – one to hang but remember the loss.
the fourth floor from the roof, and the other to hang the second floor I think that our profession would do well to take up this cause.
from the fourth floor. The engineers approved this modification, but We are widely (and wrongly) perceived as mere number-crunchers,
never performed any calculations to verify its structural adequacy. rather than front-line preservers of human life, liberty, and happiness.
They did not realize that this arrangement would double the bearing Creation of the Skywalk Memorial, with generous financial assistance
load from the upper rod’s nut and washer on the bottom of the box from the nation’s structural engineering community, would highlight
member at the fourth floor level. the crucial role that we play in modern society and the importance
On that fateful Friday night, during a popular tea dance event, this of taking further steps – like separate licensure – to reduce the likeli-
nut and washer pulled through the built-up box member, sending hood of a similar disaster in the future. Please join me in supporting
the second and fourth floor walkways crashing down to the floor this worthy endeavor.▪
below. The subsequent forensic investigation revealed that even the
original connection was not adequate for the loads specified by the
governing building code – a situation that was greatly exacerbated
How to Contribute
by the revised configuration, which was barely able to support just The Skywalk Memorial Foundation needs roughly $400,000 to
the weight of the walkways. Based on these findings, the structural cover design and construction. This translates to only about $12
engineers in responsible charge were stripped of their licenses by the per recipient of STRUCTURE magazine. To make your tax-
Missouri board. deductible donation, or to learn more about the project, please visit
What should “Remember the Hyatt” bring to mind? The most www.skywalkmemorial.org.
important thing is that structural engineers have a uniquely significant
responsibility to hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of
Jon A. Schmidt, P.E., SECB (chair@STRUCTUREmag.org) is an
the public. Architectural, mechanical, and electrical system failures
associate structural engineer at Burns & McDonnell in Kansas City,
usually result in unattractiveness, poor functionality, discomfort,
Missouri, and chairs the STRUCTURE magazine Editorial Board.
and/or inconvenience. A structural system failure almost always has
more serious consequences; even in the best cases, there are often
substantial costs associated with correcting what is or could become
a life-threatening situation.

Building A
fter over 30 years of techni-
cal research and development,
engineering and construction
Blocks
professionals no longer consider
fiber reinforced concrete as exotic. This
positive assessment is the result of several
factors, including:
• Conclusive experience (especially for
updates and information steel fiber concretes which have been
on structural materials used since the 1970s);
• Technical understanding of the materi-
als (formulation, use, physical, chemical
and mechanical properties, etc.);
• National and international recommen-
dations on the sizing of the structures
or structural elements made up of
these materials.
In industrial flooring, steel fibers are a proven and
recognized solution. Already more than 1/3 square
Comparisons meters is reinforced with steel fibers.
There are now two types of fiber available
on the market: steel and synthetic fibers. without saying that the anchoring of the fibers
Unfortunately, when is essential as well.
reviewing the available Cracks appear at different times over the life
Steel or Synthetic literature on these two
types, certain approxi-
of the material, from the initial shrinkage up
to advanced age. Although cracks result from
Fiber Reinforcement? mations are made shrinkage, creep and cyclic loading, the struc-
and even errors can tural (e.g. density) and mechanical characteristics
be found in the texts. (resistance in compression, Young modulus) of
By Pierre Rossi
Our objective is not to call out these discrep- concrete, which develop progressively, also have
ancies but to offer some of the more objective an effect on crack development.
elements regarding these fibers, so that users • During the first three hours after place-
can make their own determinations. We have ment of the concrete, its resistance and
chosen not to make an exhaustive compara- Young modulus are very low: compres-
tive analysis between suppliers, but rather to sion resistance is lower than 3 MPa,
focus on two important problem areas where traction resistance is below 0.3 MPa
differences between the fibers can be found. and Young modulus is below 5 GPa. If
The two problem areas are mechanical per- the concrete cracks during this period,
formance and durability. loads to be taken by the fiber and the
size of crack openings will be low.
Pierre Rossi is the Research Director at the
• After 24 hours, the mechanical
LCPC (Laboratoires Centrale des Ponts et Mechanical Performance properties of the concrete increase
Chaussées), Paris, France.
It is useful to remember the two main points considerably: compression resistance
about fiber reinforced concrete. Fiber rein- higher than 10 MPa, traction resistance
forced concrete is a composite material made is above 1 MPa and Young modulus is
up of a matrix – the concrete, and the rein- above 15 GPa. During this maturation
forcement (e.g. the fiber). In a fiber reinforced period if the concrete is “pushed” again
concrete, the fibers distribute the strain across to crack, the load resisted by the fibers
the cracks created in the matrix. In the sim- and the size of the crack widths will be
plest analogy, fibers are only useful if cracks more significant.
exist in the material. If the material does not
present the potential for cracking, there would
be no need for the addition of fiber. And, the
Behavior
potential for cracking makes concrete a prime Steel fibers have a high modulus of elasticity
candidate for the addition of fibers. (200 GPz) and a high resistance in traction
When cracks occur, the mechanical proper- (between 800 and 2,500 MPa). At the very
ties of the fiber are important. The modulus earliest age of the concrete matrix, small cracks
of elasticity defines the rigidity of the fiber. may appear as the concrete shrinks. Also during
The higher the modulus of elasticity of the this period, the fibers are not yet adequately
Figure 1: Example of Dramix® steel fibers. fiber, the better it will control the cracks in anchored in the immature concrete matrix.
terms of length and opening. And, it goes As such, these steel fibers are not very effective
10 January 2011
against crack propagation. As the concrete ages, the literature related to the product, illustrates
the effectiveness of the steel fibers increases and this phenomenon. It presents a comparative
crack propagation decreases. study of the creep of pre-cracked girders with
The most common synthetic fibers used in steel fibers and macro-synthetic fiber rein-
concrete mixtures are primarily polypropylene forced concrete. This is only an illustration;
fibers. They have a low modulus of elastic- the size of the creep depends on the initial
ity, varying between 3 and 5 GPa. Available opening of the cracks, which is not speci-
polypropylene fibers are typically short in fied here.
length and small in diameter.
Recently, another type of synthetic fiber has
become available for structural applications
Durability
– polymer fiber, also called macro-synthetic. Apart from some aramid fibers, there is no
Example of macro synthetic fibers.
In comparison to the polypropylene fibers, durability problem associated with synthetic
these macro-synthetics are larger in length and fibers in concrete. Corrosion of steel fibers arise when using steel fiber concretes. When
diameter, and have a higher modulus of elas- may occur. Superficial corrosion of the fibers the steel fibers have small diameters, less than
ticity (between 5 and 10 GPa, approximately). may cause discolorations on exposed surfaces. approximately 0.25 mm, any protrusions at
Two other types of synthetic fibers are also used However, surface corrosion of the fibers does the surface may be “sharp” and cause injuries.
in concrete, but less frequently. These are polyvi- not affect the load carrying capacity of the And, regardless of size, one can never guaran-
nyl alcohol (PVA) fibers and aramid fibers, with structures of which it is comprised. This tee 100% that any steel fiber will not show on
Young Modulus of 30 and 70 GPa respectively. potential corrosion of steel fibers may be the surface of the structure. Designers should
These fibers are used in very high and ultra high minimized in practice by: examine technical solutions to mitigate this
performance fiber reinforced concretes. • Optimizing the formulation of the problem. Protrusion of synthetic fibers does
Polypropylene and other synthetic fibers fiber reinforced concrete; not present the same hazard level.
restrain plastic shrinkage during the first 24 • Using non steel frameworks or ones
hours after concrete is poured. This is primar- with an “internal skin” (synthetic
ily due to their low Young Modulus, making tissue for example);
Conclusions
them very reactive to potential cracks. Indeed, • Using galvanized fibers. In conclusion, the following is a brief synopsis
slight displacements on the fibers as small The second aspect regarding the durability of the pros and cons of various fiber additives.
crack openings begin generate sufficient loads of fiber reinforced concretes concerns the fire • Steel fiber concretes do not perform in
to combat the propagation of cracks. Some resistance of structures. Steel fibers are not a the early stages of the concrete matrix
types of polypropylene fibers are fibrillated determining factor in the fire resistance of cure, but they are very effective for the
and therefore anchor into the matrix very structures. What we can underscore is that cracking in concrete structures which
well, increasing their effectiveness. a structure with fiber reinforced concrete have reached maturity.
Conversely, as the concrete becomes more behaves no worse in the presence of fire than • Polypropylene micro fiber concretes
mature, synthetic fibers become less effective. a normal reinforced concrete structure. are effective in young age cracking
Indeed, because of their high elongation or Conversely, some synthetic fibers, par- (plastic shrinkage).
“stretchiness” relative to their low Young modu- ticularly polypropylene microfibers, have a • Macro-synthetic fibers in concrete are
lus, synthetic fibers are able to undergo larger significantly positive impact in a fire. This is technically less significant than steel
displacements as cracks widen. Therefore, in due to a very simple phenomenon: in the case fiber concretes in relatively stressed
aged and cracked concrete structures with of a fire, polypropylene fibers disappear (they structures, due to varying abilities to
macro-synthetic fibers, cracks can be much have reached their fusion point) to leave in maintain certain functions over time;
wider than with steel fibers and the deforma- place a significant network of fine canaliza- • Polypropylene microfibers can
tion of these structures may be (too) significant. tions (capillaries) shared through the volume improve the fire resistance of con-
It is also important to consider mechani- of the structure. These canalizations act as crete structures;
cal properties related to problems of creep expansion vessels for the water vapor gener- • Care is needed regarding portable
with fibers. The creep of a material describes ated under pressure by the fire (evaporation structures or surfaces in contact
how it flows in the direction perpendicular of the water present in the concrete). with users when they contain
in time under sustained strains. Steel fibers in Additionally, the durability of the fiber micro steel fibers. These micro
strain in the concrete matrix do not creep, or reinforced concrete structures is affected by steel fibers can cause cuts if no
hardly ever creep. However, creep associated the progression of time. A fiber reinforced technical solution is adopted.
with synthetic fibers is potentially significant. concrete matrix must ensure a seal, e.g. pre- There are pros and cons to both synthetic
This may have negative effects. Indeed, one vent water infiltrations. As discussed above, and steel fibers; in some cases the two fibers
may encounter a situation where the concrete the problem of creep with synthetic fibers have been combined, which is not as strange
with synthetic fibers responds correctly to the increases over time. Because of this, the abil- as you may have thought.▪
specifications of the structure (mechanical ity of the synthetic fiber and concrete matrix
stability, deformation, openings of cracks) but to provide sealing properties to the structure This article is a translation of Pierre Rossi’s
the creep of fibers (between cracks) makes the may diminish with time. This problem is not papers published in Béton Magazine,
structure “sway” which is not acceptable with encountered in steel fiber concrete matrixes. March 2009.
deformation (good use of the structure) and Finally, in the case of prefabricated portable
crack openings which become too significant elements, or structures which may come into
(durability problems). Figure 1, taken from direct contact with users, safety problems may

Codes and
standards
updates and discussions related to codes
and standards
Three-dimensional schematic showing a typical container wharf and an example of highly variable pile
lengths. Water is cut away to show slenderness of waterside piles, often having a length of 60 feet or more
from deck level to the mudline below. Piers would be oriented normal to the shoreline with many long
piles being needed to support the pier deck.
W
hen learning reinforced con- structures along the west coast of the United
crete and structural steel States. When used in a deep water pier, pile
design as an undergraduate lengths near the shore can be 40 to 50 feet
in college, one might begin long from the soffit of the pier deck to an
to think that unlike the assumed point of fixity below the mudline,
potential for local and resulting in an average slenderness ratio of
ACI 318 and Pile Stability global buckling that
might occur for struc-
l/r = 85 for the 24-inch octagonal pile section.
Piles farthest from shore can often support
tural steel elements, decks in water as deep as 50 feet or more,
concrete accommodates compression very resulting in a pile slenderness of l/r = 175 or
well. While mostly true, concrete piles used greater between soffit to point of fixity for the
By Stephen P. Schneider, Ph.D., P.E., S.E. for piers and wharfs may be the exception, typical octagonal pile section.
and C. Scott Branlund, P.E., S.E. at least where global instability is concerned. Piles supporting a pier may be installed in
This article reviews slenderness effects for con- a plumb (vertical) or battered configuration.
crete compression elements needed for the In the high seismic region of the west coast,
pile design, and the apparent direction of plumb piles are typically preferred, where
future codes. It is possible provision changes resistance to lateral loads is due exclusively to
in ACI 318 may compromise a critical provi- flexural resistance of the pile at the top and
sion for structures similar to wharfs and piers bottom. Consequently, the effective length
that may be susceptible to overall instability. factor must be larger than k=1, and generally a
Typically, wharfs run parallel and are often value of k=1.2 is used as a minimum assuming
Stephen P. Schneider Ph.D., P.E., S.E. connected to the shoreline and piers are ori- a pile length with good fixity at the pier deck
is a Project Manager and helps with the ented perpendicular to the shoreline. Both and good knowledge of the location of fixity
technical aspects on a variety of projects types of structures can have pile lengths varying of the pile below mudline. When considering
at BergerABAM. Steve can be reached at dramatically over their width and/or length. that the average length of a pile for a long pier
steve.schneider@ABAM.com. Because the mudline typically slopes near the can be over 65 feet long, the pier is effectively
shore and then remains fairly flat over a consid- a 5- to 6-story building with virtually all of
Scott Branlund, P.E., S.E. is a Senior Project
erable distance away from shore, piers generally its mass at the roof.
Manager/Diver in the Waterfront division
have far longer piles as a percentage of the total To accommodate a wide variety of present and
and has been with BergerABAM for 27
pile count compared to wharfs. However, pile future demands, owners are more frequently
years. Responsible for the design and QA/
design for wharfs and piers involves one of the requiring piers and wharfs to be designed to
QC on numerous pier and wharf projects,
more slender concrete compression elements accommodate substantial live load, in the range
Scott also leads dive teams on underwater
faced by the structural engineer, particularly of 600 to 1,000 pounds per square foot. The
inspection of piles after constructed. Scott can
when the structure must accommodate ships large gravity load requirements and long slen-
be reached at scott.branlund@ABAM.com.
with deep drafts where required water depths der piles in flexural resistance coalesce into a
along the face needs to be 50 feet or more. fairly extreme stability demand on the piles.
While slenderness must be considered for both Design standards, such as the Minimum Design
piers and wharfs, piers are more susceptible Loads for Buildings and Other Structures by the
to overall pile instability and will thus be the American Society of Civil Engineers, ASCE
primary focus of this discussion. 7-05 and others, typically specify the require-
Because of their economy and availability, ments of the 2005 edition of the Building
solid 24-inch octagonal prestressed concrete Code Requirements for Structural Concrete by
piles are used for many major waterfront the American Concrete Institute, ACI 318-05.
12 January 2011
The design of slender elements such as these and the method in which
elastic buckling is considered in the ACI provisions may not necessarily
be apparent. This article summarizes our understanding of the current
design philosophy of ACI 318-05 Chapter 10.10 “Slenderness Effects
in Compression Elements” and, more importantly, our understanding
of the future provisions in ACI 318-08.
In general, the ACI 318 provisions for slender column design address
column instability exclusively by the moment magnification method.
The 1989 ACI suggests that this is “similar to the procedure used as
part of the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) specifica-
tions.” However, there are some distinct differences in the way each
code accommodates instability that may not be apparent by casual
Section of wharf showing the dramatic variation in pile lengths.
inspection. In structural steel, the column demand is intended to be
amplified for the P-δ and P-∆ effects (slenderness along the element
chord and slenderness due to frame sway), in all cases. In addition, system. Non-sway moments, Mns , are amplified by a similar method
the column compressive capacity is limited by either elastic Euler with associated factors needed for the P-δ effect. ACI 318-05 allows
buckling or by the inelastic behavior of the column considering amplified moments, δMs, to be computed by one of three methods:
residual stresses. In contrast, the capacity of a long concrete column a) A second-order elastic frame analysis, often called
is the same as the short column capacity (the axial load-moment P-M a P-∆ analysis.
interaction surface for the cross section) and is therefore not reduced b) Use of the approximation Q = ΣP∆/ΣVh , where ΣP is the
for Euler buckling directly. For long concrete columns, slenderness sum of all of the gravity loads in the story, ∆ is the story
is accommodated by the moment magnification method in which drift, ΣV is the total story shear and h is the story height.
the moments are amplified depending on if the applied loads induce Q is termed the “stability coefficient” by other codes such
sway or no sway on the structural system. The general form of this as ASCE 7-05, Chapter12.8.7.
moment amplification is: c.) Substituting Q with the ratio of ΣPu / 0.75ΣPc where ΣPu is
the sum of the factored gravity loads in a story, ΣPc is the
δMs = ( 1 –1 Q ) M
s Equation 1 sum of the critical buckling loads for all columns in the story
and 0.75 is a stiffness reduction factor, φk .
where δ is the moment amplification factor and Ms is the moment Regardless of which method above is used in computing the ampli-
on the column induced by loads producing sway of the structural fied moments, it is important that the stiffness is reduced for the
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cracked moment of inertia and for creep under
sustained loads. These conditions effectively
reduce the Euler buckling load to the critical
buckling load, Pc, of a concrete column.
While the moment magnifier method is
intended to account for slenderness and
ultimately elastic buckling, it is clearly
more effective when applied loads, such as
wind and seismic, induce large column end
moments. A structure that has large axial
loads, such as a pier loaded by large grav-
ity loads only, may not necessarily induce
large column moments and therefore may
Elevation of wharf showing pile slenderness.
be subject to only the minimum required
eccentricity of the axial load. Because the concrete column capac- When the provisions of Methods a., b. and c. are plotted for applied
ity is not reduced directly by the elastic Euler buckling, and the axial load vs. the amplification factor, the curve becomes asymptotic
P-δ magnification would not necessarily amplify the small bending to the buckling capacity as predicted by each method. The predicted
moments induced by gravity loads beyond the minimum eccentric asymptotic value, without reduction for cracked moment of inertia
moment, column capacities supporting large gravity loads may not and creep, is an indicator of how well that provision predicts the Euler
be reduced properly for Euler buckling. buckling capacity. Method a. becomes asymptotic at Euler buckling
One set of provisions that are particularly applicable to this situation provided the second-order analytical model is performed properly.
are found in Chapter 10.13.6 of ACI 318-05. Ironically, these require- Method b. provides the least accurate estimate for elastic buckling,
ments are within the moment magnification for sway section of the actually overestimating Euler buckling by 1.22 times for the end
column slenderness provisions of ACI 318-05; however, heavy gravity restrained sway case for plumb piles in piers and wharfs. Method c.
loads only do not necessarily cause large second-order moments in the results in a value 0.75 times Euler buckling because of the stiffness
sway case, even in a long pier with highly variable pile lengths. Per reduction value, φk, included in the denominator. Consequently, the
Section 10.11.4, if applied loads do not cause second order moments method chosen in analysis may have significant consequences on the
greater than 5%, only the nonsway moment magnification provisions true estimate of instability of the structure.
of Chapter 10.12 must be considered and there is no need to use Noticing this scatter in the stability estimates from ACI 318-05, it
provisions of Chapter 10.13. Although not codified, it is intended is of interest to compare how the new provisions of the code, ACI
that a lateral deformation is induced on the structural system, or a 318-08, accommodated this global instability requirement. As has
“unit load” imposed, to determine if the second-order effects are larger been the case with many concrete code cycles, the slenderness provi-
than 5%. So if performed properly, heavy gravity loads in sidesway sions for concrete columns changed. Instead of the global stability
frames would most likely induce second-order effects larger than 5% provisions being embedded within the Magnified Moments – Sway
which would ultimately lead to the overall frame stability provisions. Frame of ACI 318-05, the ACI 318-08 has lumped this into a single
The provisions of ACI 318-05 Chapter 10.13.6 are particularly general provision of Chapter 10.10.2.1. This provision states that the
applicable to piers and wharfs, since these structures inevitably have demand on the structure from second-order effects cannot exceed 1.4
variable pile lengths and can be susceptible to large axial loads. With times the linear elastic demand on the system. With this reduction
the variable pile lengths, it could be argued that a single pile cannot in the limit of second-order effects, the commentary of ACI 318-08
buckle individually. Thus, even though all piles might be plumb piles suggests it is no longer necessary to retain the ACI 318-05 Chapter
which would qualify it as a sway frame having an effective length factor 10.13.6 global instability provisions.
of k=1.2 minimum, if an individual column cannot buckle indepen- However, we also understand that the ACI column committee is
dently the effective length can be assumed more consistent with a considering adopting the requirement of Chapter 10.10.2.1 of ACI
nonsway frame column, or k<=1. Thus, the pier is only susceptible 318-08 as a seismic condition only. It is possible this provision was
to instability if all columns are on the verge of buckling, or if enough always intended to be a seismic requirement since the commentary for
columns are on the verge of buckling and there is insufficient lateral this section also compares it to the ASCE7-05 Chapter 12.8.7 that is
restraint by the piles not near Euler buckling to prevent global instabil- strictly a seismic criterion. In addition, pier and wharf structures are
ity. Consequently, determining if the sum of all columns are close to often designed to Marine Oil Terminal Engineering and Maintenance
Euler buckling is the appropriate method to determine if a structure Standards (MOTEMS), which also has a limitation on second-order
with dramatically different pile (column) lengths is near instability. effects for seismic behavior and is nearly identical to ASCE7-05.
The provisions of ACI 318-05 Chapter 10.13.6 require the amplifica- Consequently, another provision to limit the amount of P-∆ influence
tion of δMs for Methods a. and c. to be less than 2.5 and the Q value on the seismic behavior of the structural system is not really needed by the
in Method b. to be less than 0.6 (which effectively makes it consistent ACI 318 provisions, at least for most structures using ACI as a reference
with Methods a. and c.). The understanding of this provision is prob- code for concrete. Plumb piles on a wharf or pier design is perhaps one
ably best illustrated by resolving the requirement in Method c. to: of the more slender elements experienced in the design of many types of
structural systems. A consistent, effective and accurate methodology to
ΣPu = 0.6 * 0.75 * ΣPc = 0.6 * φk * ΣPc Equation 2 prevent the instability of the piles is needed. If the current ACI 318-08
Chapter 10.10.2.1 becomes limited to a seismic provision, the global
where Pc is in effect the Euler buckling capacity reduced for cracked stability provision of ACI 318-05 Chapter 10.13.6 should be reinstated
sectional properties and creep. This requirement is comparable to the and should be revised so that regardless of the method used, the predicted
elastic buckling portion of the AISC steel column capacity require- overall stability capacity of the structure is consistent.▪
ments Pu < φc 0.877 Pe.
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Structural A
s newly minted structural engi- Frames (SCBF), Special Moment Resisting
neers, we were all eager to get Frames (SMRF), chords and collectors, etc?
settled in with our employer and Are you familiar with various foundation sys-
PracticeS
get to work crunching numbers tems and ground improvement techniques?
and working on projects. This is great –
Improvement Tasks
every firm needs fresh young talent for many
• Review drawings of other project types
reasons. Most young engineers tend to be
that you have not worked on
task-oriented, whose metrics might include:
• Ask questions
practical knowledge beyond the textbook How many hours did I work this week? Was
• Make it known that you would like
my day filled with productive work? Did I
to work on a certain building type or
complete my assignment on time? Was the
structural material that interests you or
input data on my structural model correct?
that you are not very experienced with
Did I learn something new today?
• Educate yourself by reading books, trade
As younger engineers grow and become
magazines, engineering journals, etc.
more experienced in their field, some will
• Take classes and attend seminars
be interested in maturing into something
• Join a professional organization
other than task-oriented engineers. Many
• Be curious about other people’s projects
firms have in-house training and mentoring
and discuss them together, even if you
programs that help younger engineers transi-
are not associated with that project
tion into becoming results-oriented engineers.
• Review drawings for projects pre-
For results-oriented engineers, it matters less
pared by other engineering firms
how many hours
whenever possible to see how other
they work than what
Becoming a Results-Oriented results are achieved
firms do things
Structural Engineer from that work.

Measurable results
Ability to Simplify a Problem
might include new Do you know how to bracket a problem?
clients, profit, revenue, problem solving, How precise of an answer is required on a
Part 1: Technical Skills good risk management, creative solutions, particular problem? Can you look at a prob-
and whether a client is happy with your work. lem and reduce it down to its simplest form?
By John P. Miller, P.E., S.E.
This is a two-part article that identifies and Can you recognize where a detailed analysis
describes sixteen key skill sets that engineers is required and where an approximate solu-
in a structural engineering practice should tion is good enough? How efficiently do you
have in order to achieve results and make spend your time?
significant contributions to the firm. These
Improvement Tasks
skill sets follow two broad themes; techni-
• Learn to run quick hand calculations to
cal and management. Part One covers the
check your work
technical theme.
• Know the answer by approximate meth-
Each skill set starts with a set of questions to
ods before you model it in the computer
help you assess your overall maturity level for
John P. Miller, P.E., S.E. is a Principal • When an exact answer is not required
that particular shell. These are followed by sug-
with KPFF Consulting Engineers, St. or achievable, simplify
gested ways to improve within each skill set.
Louis, MO. He may be contacted at • Learn to work fast and efficiently
john.miller@kpff-stl.com. • Know when to use software and when
Familiarity with All Structural NOT to use software
• Use rules of thumb and short cuts
Project Types and Materials whenever it makes sense
Are you familiar with all of the project types
that your firm normally works on? How many Completeness and
of these have you actually worked on? Are you
familiar with all of the usual structural mate-
Thoroughness of Drawings
rials, like reinforced masonry and concrete, How well are your drawings coordinated
structural steel, light gage, post-tensioning, with other disciplines? Is there a “perfect”
stick-framed wood and timber, engineered set of documents? How well do the general
lumber, etc.? Are you familiar with all of the notes and specifications agree with the draw-
normal structural systems, like flat plates, pan ings? How well organized are your plans and
slabs, pre-engineered metal building systems, details? How clear are your structural draw-
composite steel, metal deck, steel joists and ings to the end user? Do you know who the
joist girders, retaining walls, etc.? Are you end users are? How complete is the informa-
familiar with customary lateral force resisting tion on your drawings and specifications? Will
systems like shearwalls, Eccentrically Braced this project be reviewed by an outside party
Frames (EBF), Special Concentrically Braced and does that affect the level of completeness?
16 January 2011
Improvement Tasks • Take a class or two in areas in which • Cite conclusions in the calculations
• A set of drawings that goes to the you are weak or inexperienced and indicate any assumptions made
Principal for final review should • Cite references when appropriate
represent the best possible and most • Pay special attention to organization
complete effort on your part
Writing Skills and completeness when you know the
• Make sure the general notes, specifica- Are you able to clearly and succinctly express project will be reviewed out-of-house
tions and drawings always agree a thought or technical concept in writing? Are • Remember that, although most
• Make sure your drawings follow your paragraphs and sentences grammati- building departments require struc-
common drafting rules and cally correct? Is your writing professional and tural calculations to be submitted for
office standards liability free? Are you as careful with emails as building permit, they are not part of
• Make sure drawings are well organized you are with other types of correspondence? the construction documents and are
and appropriate for the project only used as a guide to assist in making
Improvement Tasks
• Discuss the drawing organization at the engineering decisions
• Read The Business Writer’s Handbook
start of the project • Consider purging your files of the
(St. Martins Press) or Handbook of
• Determine if the project size or com- calculations when a job is complete as a
Technical Writing (St. Martins Press) or
plexity warrants the need to over-do a part of your records retention policy
similar books on how to write
set of drawings
• Practice writing as often as you can
• Read the American Institute of Steel
• Write correspondence and reports in
Desire to Learn New Things
Construction (AISC) Code of Standard
third person active voice Do you embrace new software? Do you view
Practice and the American Concrete
• Read Design Professional Insurance Building Information Modeling (BIM) as a
Institute (ACI) Detailing Manual
Corporation’s (DPIC) Lessons in hindrance or an advantage? Do you want to
• Review the drawings for constructability
Liability booklet to understand the work with new materials and building types?
problem with words like “all”, “final”, Do you want to learn how the consulting
Technical Skills “inspect”, “certify”, “best”, “worst” and business operates? Are you open to new
Are you conversant with all the computer scores of others. structural systems? What are your thoughts
software available in your office? How is your • Read everything you write AT LEAST on Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) and
knowledge of Building Code requirements? three times before you send it out to Design/Build (D/B) delivery?
Do you have a good understanding of struc- catch grammatical and syntax errors.
Improvement Tasks
tural analysis and design techniques? Are you Then read it again from the perspective
• Do not be afraid to use new software
familiar with all the various material codes? of a lawyer, and then again from the
• Take a class or two and go to seminars
Do you have a detailed understanding of the perspective of the intended recipient.
– continue your education
basis for seismic loads, wind loads, snow loads, • Try using the Oxford English
• Ask to review the office or company
etc.? How much experience do you have with Dictionary (OED) instead of MS
financials with one of the principals
geotechnical issues? Are you familiar with all Word’s thesaurus
• Take a leading role in the implementa-
the various framing systems? Do you have a
tion of BIM in your office
good inventory of rules of thumb? Quality and Organization • Become an expert in emerging technol-
Improvement Tasks of Calculations ogy or techniques
• Read and learn the International You may find it surprising that many
Are your calculations neat and orderly, easy
Building Code (IBC), the American of the architects, contractors, and build-
to follow, complete, and correct? Why do you
Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) ing owners who hire structural engineers
perform calculations? Do you dive into the
codes and other similar building codes don’t always know, or care, whether we’re
detailed beam design first thing on a proj-
• Be familiar with all material codes technically superior compared to the next
ect? Does your level of effort change if you
(AISC, ACI, National Wood Products engineer or another firm. They may take it
know your calculations will be reviewed by
Association, American Iron and Steel for granted that all structural engineers have
an outside party? Do the calculations help
Institute, Steel Deck institute, Steel a similar level of technical ability. Having
the contractor? Should you save calculations
Joint Institute, etc.) a command of the technical aspects of our
after the project is constructed?
• Be familiar with American Society of profession is certainly essential and basic,
Testing and Materials (ASTM) Improvement Tasks but many of the consumers of our services
• Learn about Factory Mutual (FM) • Organize calculations into sections value other skill sets, like our ability to
requirements and Underwriters Labs such as foundations, floor framing, make good decisions, our ability to take
(UL) assembly ratings lateral analysis, etc. ownership, whether we embrace BIM and
• When you review a geotechnical • It is helpful to have a calculations index IPD, and our capability to understand a
report, you should have an intimate on larger projects project from their point of view. In Part
understanding of all geotechnical • Develop a written design criteria Two, we will explore a broad set of man-
aspects of the site. Read the geotechni- document tailored for each project so agement skills that should be mastered to
cal report AT LEAST three times that you and all other engineers on the round out your ability to make a significant
• Become familiar with all available project work with the same parameters contribution to the success of your firm and
structural engineering software in the • Imagine someone who did not work on achieve results.▪
office – go through the software guide the project having to read and under-
and practice every program or go stand your thought process by reading
through every tutorial your calculations

W
hen an explosion occurs near
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PVB holds the glass together, even if it cracks, appearance or functionality. However, the
and stretches out considerably in response perimeter of the pane remains vulnerable to
to the overpressure. shear failure in a blast event, such that the
However, proper entire sheet of filmed glass could be blown
Glazing Retrofits for replacement of exist- out of its frame and into the building, posing
Blast Mitigation ing glazing systems

with laminated glass
a risk of blunt force trauma. Furthermore,
in an insulating glass unit (IGU), only the
can be a difficult inboard lite is filmed, so it is still possible for
By Jon A. Schmidt, P.E., SECB, BSCP and expensive proposition, often requiring fragments from the outboard lite to pose a
replacement or reinforcement of framing hazard to occupants.
members and connections as well.
A popular alternative is to apply a polyester FRF Plus Catcher Bar – One way to improve
fragment retention film (FRF) to the interior the protection provided by daylight-applied
surface of the glass, which performs much like FRF is to install a rigid bar across the filmed
the PVB interlayer in laminated glass. The glass, on the interior, either horizontally or
four most common retrofit configurations vertically (Figure 2). In a blast event, the FRF
are as follows. will hold the glass together, and if it shears
off around the perimeter, the pane will wrap
Daylight-Applied FRF – The simplest, least around the catcher bar and slap together –
intrusive and least expensive way to reduce the likely dislodging a few fragments. Substantial
Jon A. Schmidt, P.E., SECB, BSCP
fragment hazard from glazing is to apply FRF anchorage is required at both ends of the rod,
(jschmid@burnsmcd.com), is an associate
only to the exposed interior surface of the glass which protrudes into the room and may be
structural engineer and the Director
(Figure 1). A thickness of 4 to 7 mils is usually an impediment if the window is intended
of Antiterrorism Services at Burns &
to be operable. Thicker FRF – typically 7 to
McDonnell in Kansas City, Missouri. He
11 mils – is required, and for an IGU, frag-
is vice-chair of the SEI Codes & Standards Catcher Bar Attached to Wall
ments from the outboard lite will be largely
Committee on Blast Protection of Buildings.
Wall unimpeded.
FRF Plus Net Curtain – Another enhance-

Window Frame
ment for daylight-applied FRF is to install
a polyester curtain that is hung from a rod
above the filmed glass, on the interior, and
Glass with Anti- has weights sewn into it at the bottom, where
Shatter Film on excess material is housed in a box (Figure
Inside Surface
3). Once again, in a blast event, the FRF
will hold the glass together; in this case, if
it shears off around the perimeter, the net
Elevation View curtain will catch the entire pane and drop it
No Scale
to the floor. Substantial anchorage to the wall
Figure 2: FRF Plus Catcher Bar. is required for both the rod and the box, and
18 January 2011
Curtain Rod Attached to Wall
Wall
One thing that all retrofits using FRF have in Acknowledgment
Net Curtain common is the limited service life of the film
Much of the information in this article and
itself – typically about 10 years. When evalu-
Window Frame all of the accompanying figures are taken from
ating replacement vs. retrofit, it is important
the Window Analysis Guide, published by
Glass with Anti- to keep this life-cycle cost consideration in
the US Army Corps of Engineers Protective
Shatter Film on mind. A somewhat larger up-front investment
Inside Surface Design Center (pdc.usace.army.mil) as part
in laminated glass may pay off by eliminating
of the Help file for its Window Fragment
Curtain Box Attached the need for removal and replacement of FRF
to Wall (holds excess Hazard Level Analysis (HazL) software.
curtain and weighted
in the future.▪
curtain edge) Elevation View
No Scale
Figure 3: FRF Plus Net Curtain.
the curtain must be removed and washed

regularly – hopefully not on a day when
an explosion occurs!
Attached FRF – The most effective tech-

nique using FRF involves fastening it to
the frame around the glass along either
two opposite sides or all four sides (Figure
4). Needless to say, it is also the most
complex, most intrusive and most expen-
sive option, requiring thicker FRF – 7
mils minimum – as well as mechanical
attachment or the application of a struc-
tural silicone sealant. As with laminated

glass, it may be necessary to replace or
reinforce the framing members and con-
nections in order to ensure that the entire
assembly is not dislodged from the wall
in a blast event.
Glass Anti-Shatter
Film
Outside Inside
Section View
No Scale Film anchoring device
attached to frame
Film extended onto
frame surface
Frame
Figure 4: Attached FRF.

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10-04029
PROFESSIONAL E
very single player in the design and
execution of the built environment
ISSUES
plays a major role in the sustain-
ability of our future. The process of
creating a green building by today’s standards
requires the input and cooperation of every
professional on the design team. The process
issues affecting the structural beckons for a form of leadership equipped
engineering profession with the capability to envision and realize
a rational end product amongst an ocean
of competing objectives. It could be argued
that, as structural engineers, we are the best principles will ultimately settle upon profes-
outfitted among consultants to take the lead sional fields that are themselves in a constant
in this respect. By doing so, our efforts would state of flux.
at once drive the evolution of modern sus-
tainable design and the enhancement of the
structural engineering profession.
Symbiosis
There are indisputable truths worth noting. Enter the structural engineer. With extensive
In the United States and around the world, technical training and an affinity for interpret-
more available resources go into creating complex systems, structural engineers
ing buildings than have the capacity to preserve and enhance
any other manmade the principles behind modern sustainable
Sustainability and the enterprise in exis- design. By harnessing these principles, the
Structural Engineer tence today. These

resources – manifested
structural engineering industry could in turn
reap tremendous symbiotic opportunities to
as energy, raw materi- enhance their role in the design process and
als, and available land for both the building the quality of the end product.
A Dialectic of the Structural itself and the waste generated – are largely Commonly accepted and often implemented
Engineer’s Role in Sustainable non-renewable. As builders, our collectively tactics of the sustainable-minded structural
unchecked consumptiveness continues to engineer center on responsible materials selec-
Building Practice negate the positive impact our industry may tion. Recycled and low energy materials, as
otherwise have on modern society. well as locally produced sources, are the most
By Zak Kostura, M.Eng, EIT, LEED AP
It is also an unassailable fact that the face apparent contributions a structural engineer
and Jennifer Pazdon, EIT, MSE
of contemporary building design and con- can make to the “greenness” of a project.
struction is changing. Design teams face ever Because they are easily quantifiable, these
greater motivation to consider and address additions are recognized by current metric
the impact their work will have on the world standards such as LEED. However, this is far
around them. The annual number of new cer- from the end of the contributions to be made.
tified green building projects and accredited Structural engineers can lead a project toward
Zak Kostura is a practicing structural engineer
sustainable designers continues to increase enhanced sustainability by doing what they
with Arup. Mr. Kostura also currently serves
dramatically. Every year, more clients demand commonly do: take a proactive role at the
as editorial advisor for several industry-
sustainability in the design of their projects design table and facilitate solutions to prob-
related publications. He is an adjunct
throughout the country and, in turn, they face lems requiring a multidisciplinary approach.
professor within the Graduate School for
impressive public support for their business An enhanced building feature, whether it
Architecture, Planning and Preservation at
practices in the form of real estate sales and serves to benefit the structure’s mechanical
Columbia University. Zak may be reached
press coverage. efficiency, energy consumption or recycled
at zak.kostura@arup.com.
Beyond these established realities, there is content often requires the cooperation
Jennifer Anna Pazdon is a structural much uncertainty. The very definition of of numerous constituencies across varied
engineer at Robert Silman Associates. She a “green building” remains elusive and the building trades. It is the nature of the design
is the acting Programs Chair for SEAoNY criteria for certification by prominent orga- process that enhancements in one area may
and a contributing author for the ASCE nizations remains fundamentally flawed. It lead to added complications in others. When
SEI Sustainability Committee’s 2010 has been shown time and again that building a building feature is considered non-essential
publication: “Sustainability Guidelines green is marketing gold, but how much of (as many modern-day green building fea-
for the Structural Engineer”. Jennifer may our effort in promoting sustainability stems tures often are), such a complication is often
be reached at Pazdon@silman.com. from our humanitarian sense of social respon- solved quickly through exclusion. Vigilance
sibility? Even for the engineers, architects, is required to realize any complex design
consultants and builders who have accepted approach that is not strictly required by the
the concept of sustainable design with open client’s scope. By taking an assertive role in
arms, it remains to be fully decided how these facilitating collaboration across disciplines,
22 January 2011
the structural engineer can uphold and pro- Structural engineers are equipped with
mote the design team’s sustainable objectives. excellent analytical tools; if they lack in any
Bearing in mind the already considerable field, it is in regard to communication and
complexity of our profession, the difficult leadership skills. Favorably, the altruistic
balance of market interests, building secu- nature of interest in sustainability is often
rity concerns, architectural intentions, and accompanied by a personality interested in
technological advances, one might proffer people and communication. Thus, in addi-
that a leadership role in sustainability is a tion to benefiting the practicing engineer by
second helping on an already too full plate. enhancing the value associated with our work
But how do we prioritize? As the industry by others, respecting sustainability increases
advances, we should look toward making the appeal of our industry to the kind of
the process better and not simply faster. In employees firms seek to hire and keep.
truth, the fact is that the choice is no longer
one to be made. The building industry, via
bodies such as the USGBC, the AIA COTE,
Conclusion
the GSA, a swarm of publications such as By approaching structural engineering in
Ecostructure and Metropolis Magazine, pri- a sustainable fashion, structural engineers
vately funded research, and a multitude of have the opportunity to serve as role models
inspired individuals have already blazed a within the building community, which col-
path in the direction of sustainable building lectively contributes in enormous proportion
practices. It is now vital to the profession that to the ever growing levels of consumption and
the structural engineer take a primary lead waste in America. Change begins with small
in the further development of techniques, steps, such as individual engineers adhering
metrics and standards related to sustainability. to practical and proven methods of design

The holistic fiber of sustainability is often with greater sustainability. Such a mindset is
touted, meaning that the whole is greater than in fact practical, not idealistic. If a substantial
the sum of its parts. Consequently, by assert- portion of the professional engineering com-
ing a lead role in this domain, we increase our munity can be convinced of this, the approach
primacy as members of the design, construc- will grow. Guidelines will improve and many
tion, political and societal spheres. Technical of the most progressive green building tac-
fields may grow more specialized, but the tics may someday become industry standard.
world in which they exist grows evermore Someday, perhaps green buildings will just be
interconnected. Any single action on behalf called buildings.
of an individual can have resounding impli- The nature of structural engineering is what
cations. The specific duties of the structural we make of it. The duties and responsibilities
engineer are generally opaque to the public mandated by the global building industry are
due to their complexity and in some cases virtually endless. With all the talk about hand-
as a result of disinterest. Little attention is off of risk and responsibility and tasks that
paid the structural engineer at the completion we as structural engineers don’t want to do,
of design as compared with the architect or who’s talking about what we do want to do?
owner. When interest is spurred, it is often in The field can be as mundane or as challenging
the wake of disaster and failure. Firms devote as we seek it to be. Our choices set the stage
portions of their revenues to developing an for the future. If we adopt technically chal-
attractive website and other marketing mate- lenging – and socially responsible – aspects
rials in order to appeal to clients as well as of 21st Century building design, we realize
potential employees. There is no question an industry that will attract a generation of
that, with amplified participation in sustain- young, innovative designers and problem
able design, we increase the accessibility and solvers; fuel innovation in sustainable living,
appeal of our persona. It is certainly in the working and development; and continue the
interest of safety that the structural engineer bold traditions of visionary engineers that
must remain sober to interests of self-pro- have come before us.▪
motion that might compromise the integrity
of our work, but it is also true that public
perception will sway how we are valued by This article was originally published in the
clients and other consultants. This, combined Winter 2006 issue of Structural Engineers
with the additional services we can provide Association of New York (SEAoNY) Cross
as sustainable minded consultants and the Sections. It is reprinted with permission.
demand for sustainable buildings in the real
estate market, will translate to greater job
security and accordingly higher fees.

Structural Performance performance issues relative to extreme events
Wood Pre-fabricated Shear Panels

for Lateral Force Resistance
By Renee Strand, P.E.
T
o limit damage of wood-framed Some pre-fabricated shear panels can also
light commercial buildings, multi- be used as part of a single- or double-portal
family structures and homes frame system installed on a concrete foun-
against lateral forces from earth- dation. Code-evaluated portal frames have
quakes and high wind, the International been tested as an assembly consisting of 1 or
Wood pre-fabricated shear panels can accommodate
Building Code (IBC) and International 2 panels with a header spanning the opening high lateral loads in narrow wall segments.
Residential Code (IRC) allow several bracing and connected to the panel(s) with a moment-
methods. These include shear walls and braced resistive connection. Load capacities vary by time-consuming to build. If contractors do
wall panels built on-site, and pre-fabricated manufacturer and for steel versus wood shear not follow design details closely, there is also
shear panels as allowed under the alterna- panels but, as an example, an 18-inch wide a risk of red tag delays due to mistakes such as
tive materials section of the code. From an by 9-foot tall wood shear panel in a single- over-driven nails, incorrect nail spacing, nails
engineering standpoint, these are all workable portal system can have an allowable seismic that miss framing members, misplaced hold-
solutions – depending on the specific wall shear load of 1,905 lbs and an allowable wind downs and over-bent straps, to name a few.
design and building characteristics. shear load of 2,090 lbs. The same size panel in Wood pre-fabricated shear panels are easier
However, pre-fabricated shear panels offer a double-portal system can have an allowable to install than site-built options since they
a number of advantages to consider, such seismic load of 3,810 lbs and an allowable come in one-piece units and have simple
as consistent and predictable performance wind load of 4,180 lbs. brackets for attachment to the building’s
to satisfy code requirements, and the ability Pre-fabricated shear panels have also been foundation (additional fasteners are required
to accommodate high loads in narrow wall tested and used successfully in tall walls up at the top). Because of their consistency and
segments and other applications. For wood- to 20 feet high and in two-story structures pre-attached hold-down components, pre-
framed structures, wood pre-fabricated shear to meet the latest code requirements. Refer fabricated shear panels also typically can pass
panels also help simplify work for building to ICC-ES ESR-2652, April 1, 2010, for inspection easier than site-built shear walls
crews when compared to steel panels. details on one such product. The code evalua- and braced wall panels.
tion report justifies using the panel as a shear While engineers often specify steel shear
wall in Type V construction, wood-framed panels given a general familiarity with them,
Structural Applications buildings and as a one-to-one replacement for such panels can be more difficult to use on-
Because many modern building designs call braced wall panels specified in IBC Section site than wood pre-fabricated shear panels for
for numerous window and door openings 2308.9.3 and IRC Section R602.10. contractors working on wood-framed build-
along a wall line, the required length of site- Because they come in a variety of sizes ings. Steel panels require additional framing
built shear wall segments or braced wall panels (heights ranging from 7 to 20 feet and widths materials to attach finish products, and the
may be too wide to meet the architect’s desired ranging from 12 to 48 inches), wood pre-fab- ability to modify the panels in the field is lim-
aesthetic. For engineered designs, the code- ricated shear panels provide design flexibility ited. Wood pre-fabricated shear panels, on the
established height (h) to width (b) ratios are for a variety of wall sizes and loading condi- other hand, can be nailed, making them easier
3.5 to 1 for wind-controlled design loads and tions. As these details vary by product, it is for contractors to attach exterior siding and
2 to 1 for seismic-controlled design loads important to confirm specific capabilities in interior wallboard. Crews can also trim some
(with an exception for 3.5 to 1 for seismic the manufacturer’s literature. wood panels in height, which allows modifica-
if the allowable shear load is multiplied by tions to fit uneven foundations and varying
2b/h). For prescriptive design, even though wall heights. In addition, wood pre-fabricated
the height-to-width ratios can be increased
Ease of Construction shear panels can be drilled to accommodate
beyond 3.5 to 1 under certain rules, the Beyond structural considerations, specifying wiring or plumbing. It is important to follow
required brace wall length may still be limited wood pre-fabricated shear panels can help the manufacturer’s guidelines for field trim-
by the architectural design. streamline construction. Although ensuring ming or drilling.
Pre-fabricated shear panels are tested to a stable, code-compliant structure is the top For more information, contact a shear panel
industry standards, and can thus exceed code design concern, taking into account the chal- manufacturer. They can provide details on
limits on height-to-width. This allows for lenges building crews face on the jobsite can product sizes, applications, allowable loads,
accommodating high loads in narrow wall help reduce labor time and costs. and code compliance.▪
segments. For example, a 24-inch wide by Due to the extensive list of components
8-foot tall wood pre-fabricated shear panel for site-built shear walls or braces (e.g.,
Renee Strand, P.E., is a senior engineer for
can have an allowable shear load of 4,435 lbs studs, plates, sheathing, anchor bolts, hold-
iLevel by Weyerhaeuser. She can be reached
based on seismic controlled designs or 4,880 downs, nails, etc.), site-built shear walls
at renee.strand@weyerhaeuser.com.
lbs based on wind controlled designs. and braced wall panels can be difficult and

Cracked&
Cracked &
IBC
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Continue to look to Simpson Strong-Tie Anchor Systems for all of your cracked concrete anchoring solutions.
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IN THE SPECS
ON THE JOB
© 2011 Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc. SAS-STB211 AT YOUR SERVICE™
meet the newest member of our waterproofing products family:
mel-rol precon ® TM
VERTICAL HORIZONTAL
You’ve trusted W. R. MEADOWS to protect MEL-ROL PRECON does double-duty when used in horizontal
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Use of Shrinkage-Compensating
Concrete in Post-Tensioned Buildings Figure 1: Efflorescence at crack
on L1 slab soffit.
Part Two: A Four-Building Survey

By Kenneth B. Bondy, S.E., FACI
L3 (top level) of Parking Structure B2 looking north.
This is the second of a two-part article presenting case studies of four projects which demonstrate the effective use of shrinkage-compensating concrete
to mitigate restraint-to-shortening (RTS) cracking in post-tensioned concrete buildings. Two of these projects were built more than 40 years ago, one
has been in service for 12 years, and one is new, completed just 19 months before this writing. The first two buildings surveyed were presented in the
April, 2010 issue of STRUCTURE magazine.
John Wayne Airport Parking Structures were measured and repaired in the 480,000 square feet of floor area in
both structures. Prior to repair, some of the cracks allowed the passage
A2 and B2, Santa Ana, CA of water through the slab, resulting in unsightly efflorescence at the
Construction began on Parking Structures A2 and B2 at John Wayne slab soffit and potential damage to cars below (Figure 1).
Airport in Santa Ana, CA in the early 1990s. Virtually everyone in the Construction proceeded on the upper two levels in the late 1990s.
Southern California construction community during that period was The most significant structural change made in the upper levels was
aware of the project because of its dramatic RTS cracking problems the use of Type K shrinkage-compensating concrete. Virtually all other
and the ultimate resolutions. details relating to RTS were unchanged: dimensions, pourstrips, join-
The buildings are framed with cast-in-place, monolithic post-tensioned ery details, and the contractor executing the work. The two expanded
concrete slabs, beams, and girders. Each contains three elevated levels structures were completed and went into service in 1998.
(L1, L2, and L3), and each is three bays wide (about 175 feet) in the A visual inspection of all three elevated levels of both structures was
direction of the beam spans, and very long (over 1,000 feet) in the direc- made in February 2009, about eleven years after completion of the
tion of the slab spans. The long direction is separated into independent second phase. There is a striking difference in the performance of the
sections, each slightly over 300 feet in length, with two permanent upper levels (L2 and L3) where shrinkage-compensating concrete was
expansion joints. Each independent section has two pourstrips. used, and the lower level (L1) where it was not. The L1 level is laced
The buildings were built in two phases: first an initial level (L1), and with thousands of feet of unsightly repaired cracks (Figure 2). The
then two upper levels (L2 and L3) as the need for additional parking upper two levels, L2 and L3, are virtually crack free. Since the only
arose. The first elevated level (L1), built with normal-weight portland significant and relevant variable is the use of shrinkage-compensating
cement concrete, was completed in the early 1990s and immediately concrete in the upper levels, the performance difference can be reason-
began to crack severely. Eventually, over 70,000 linear feet of cracks ably attributed to the cement.
continued on next page
Figure 2: Typical repaired cracks on structure A2 Level L1. Figure 3: Top of slab near expansion joint, structure A2 Level L1.

Figure 4: Same Location as Figure 3, One Floor Up On Level L2. Figure 5: North elevation showing three lower parking levels and five upper
residential levels.
Figure 3 (page 27) shows the top of the slab at a double column significant savings in construction time. SDG did a complete rede-
straddling the expansion joint at the L1 level. Diagonal cracks radi- sign of the building based on these and other cost-saving measures.
ate off the columns in an orientation consistent with RTS on either Bids on the redesigned job came in under budget. Net savings realized
side of the expansion joint. Figure 4 shows the top of the slab on the by eliminating pourstrips was estimated at $250,000, including the
L2 level, exactly one floor above the location shown in Figure 3. The premium for the KSC concrete. Total savings realized by the redesign
slab is crack free at this location. was about $3 million.
Construction started in 2007 and the building was completed in
Ridgecrest Community Residence, 2009. During an onsite inspection of the parking level slabs in April
2009, they were found to be in excellent condition. No cracking
University Of Alabama, Tuscaloosa was evident related to RTS or applied load. Careful observation of
The building is an 8-story student dormitory and parking structure the far corners of each of the sections separated by the expansion
built on-campus for the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. In this joint – where the most RTS cracking could be expected – revealed
building, the use of shrinkage-compensating concrete resulted in the these critical areas to be crack-free. An experienced observer of post-
elimination of pourstrips in large post-tensioned slabs with cost sav- tensioned slabs would rate the performance and condition of these
ings and excellent performance. large slabs as outstanding.
All of the floors are framed with cast-in-place post-tensioned flat In a published article describing the building, the structural design-
plates (solid thickness slabs supported on concrete columns with no ers state:
drop panels or shear caps). The lower three elevated slabs are roughly “The real proof is the slab itself – there are virtually no cracks
650 by 300 feet in plan dimension, separated by a central permanent in more than 420,000 square feet of slab. Further, the concrete
expansion joint running in the 300’ dimension. The slab-on-ground frame was bid and completed 42 days ahead of (a very aggres-
and the first two elevated slabs (7¼ inches thick) are used for parking; sive) schedule.”
the third elevated deck (11-12 inches thick) is the first residential floor The first elevated slab of this building was extensively instrumented
and forms two large courtyard areas with landscaping. Type K cement to measure short and long-term concrete strains and curvatures. The
was used in the lower three slabs but not in the upper residential slabs testing program was directed by Dr. Jim Richardson, professor of
(7¼ inches thick) where Type 1 was used (with pourstrips). Civil Engineering at the University of Alabama. Data collected 14
The photograph in Figure 5 was taken in April, 2009 when the months after construction of the slab has been published in the ACI
building was structurally complete but architectural finish work was Structural Journal.
still underway. Measurements made 14 months after the slab concrete was placed
The original design of the building used light steel framing in the show that total shortening in the first-floor slab (ε = 0.000435 in/in)
upper residential floors. Bearing walls were supported on the third was less than half that predicted for conventional (i.e., non-shrinkage-
floor concrete deck on a grid of deep concrete transfer beams, with a compensating) concrete normally used for this application. That is
post-tensioned slab outside and between the beams. On the lower two extremely significant, since studies of concrete shrinkage versus time
elevated parking slabs, each of the two 300- by 300-foot pieces were show that over 80% of total shrinkage has occurred at 14 months,
divided temporarily into four smaller pieces by pourstrips, specified and the remaining 20% progresses with dramatically decreasing rate
to be kept open for 9 to 12 weeks. over the next 20 years. If it is assumed that another 10% of the final
Bids came in substantially over the approximately $70 million total strain will occur between 14 months and 5 years, predicted
budget. The structural engineers, Structural Design Group (SDG) of total strain at 5 years would be 0.000435/0.9 = 0.000483 in/in., a
Birmingham, AL, value-engineered the job for cost-cutting measures. value reasonably consistent with the 5-year strain of 0.00034 in/in
They eliminated steel framing and changed to post-tensioned concrete measured in the Santa Monica Structure #2. Continuing strain mea-
slabs in the upper residential floors, using the same column layout as surements made on the Ridgecrest structure should lead to important
the parking area below. That eliminated the grid of transfer beams at new information on creep relaxation and temperature change effects.
the third level. They used KSC™ shrinkage-compensating concrete in This is an extremely important building whose significance cannot
the lower three elevated slabs in order to eliminate pourstrips. This be overestimated. Its success will help establish a relationship between
resulted in direct savings in the cost of building pourstrips, and a post-tensioned concrete and expansive concrete that should have a

Soffit of First Level slab (standing on slab-on-ground) looking northwest. The Slab-column joint at First Level near northwest corner of slab.
first supported level is the most susceptible to RTS cracking.
great impact on future design and construction practices. Things were (when properly mixed, placed, finished, and cured) can substantially
done in this building that could not have been done without the use eliminate pourstrips; and, with due consideration of temperature effects,
of shrinkage-compensating concrete, and they resulted in outstanding can realistically increase the maximum length between expansion joints
performance and significant cost savings. to approximately 500 feet, with equivalent or superior performance.
The author gratefully acknowledges the staff of CTS Cement
Manufacturing, Inc., whose products include KSC shrinkage-com-
Conclusion pensating cement, and in particular its president, my old friend Ed
RTS (along with tendon corrosion) is one of the two biggest problems Rice, for their assistance with this article.
ever faced by the post-tensioning industry. Looking back over the growth
Kenneth B. Bondy, S.E., FACI, is the current President of the Post-
of post-tensioned concrete for 5 decades, and the early efforts to solve the
Tensioning Institute (PTI) and was, in 2005, inducted into the PTI
shortening problems, it seems that the use of shrinkage-compensating
Hall of Fame, Legends of Post-Tensioning. He serves on numerous ACI
concrete may have made the solution to the RTS problem easier.
committees. Mr. Bondy can be reached at www.kenbondy.com.
Observations of the four buildings included in this survey (including
the two discussed in the April 2010 issue) indicate that, on most post- The online version of this article contains references.
tensioned concrete buildings, the use of shrinkage-compensating concrete Please visit www.STRUCTUREmag.org.
Fyfe Ad-Oct 2010.indd 1 12/1/10 10:55 AM

Solutions to This article is the second of a three-part series on the rehabilitation of the
South Tower of the historic Milwaukee City Hall. Part 1, published in
Structural Distress the November, 2010 issue of STRUCTURE®, addressed the investigation
of significant masonry cracking in the structure. Part 3 will discuss the
in the South
design for durability of the reconstructed masonry.
Tower of the
A
fter the completion of the inves-
tigation outlined in Part 1 of
this three-part series, the City of
Milwaukee Milwaukee elected to proceed
with design for the repairs of the South Tower
City Hall of Milwaukee City Hall (Figure 1). National
engineering firm Simpson Gumpertz & Heger
Inc. (SGH) teamed with architect Engberg
Part 2 Anderson and engineer Bloom Companies,
By LLC for the repair design. The City of
Mark D. Webster, Milwaukee quickly established a goal for the
LEED AP, P.E., repairs to last 100 years, with regular mainte-
Gunjeet Juneja, P.E. nance for wear and tear of the materials. The
and Donald O. City awarded the construction contract to J.P.
Dusenberry, P.E. Cullen & Sons, Inc. of Janesville, Wisconsin.
Finite Element Analysis

SGH performed finite element (FE) analyses
to determine the most likely causes of the
observed cracking patterns in the tower and
to help design the structural repairs. These
analyses included global models evaluating
the tower steel structure and the masonry
walls, and component models to study the
effect of brick pointing on a wall section and
the performance of critical masonry piers.
Steel Structure FE Model
The interior steel structure (the core truss,
Figure 2) of the tower extends from the 10th
floor to the lantern at the apex of the roof,
86 feet above the 13th floor. The truss was
analyzed using a two-dimensional model rep-
resenting one plane of the three-dimensional
trusswork. This model calculated the load
distribution through the truss under the
weight of the roof and wind loads acting on
the roof, and provided the reactions of the
steel structure on the masonry for the design
of masonry rehabilitation.
With the exception of the 13th-floor plate
girders that span between the core truss and
the masonry walls and the steel columns
immediately above, all members of the core
truss were modeled to carry only tension and
compression. The plate girder members were
modeled as beam elements to capture the
important bending behavior of the girders
and the effects of the eccentricity of the con-
nection of the diagonal truss members and
the plate girders.
The steel structure is supported on two steel
trusses spanning diagonally across the tower
Figure 1: Milwaukee City Hall’s South Tower.
at the 10th floor. The flexibility of this
support was accounted for using elas-
tic springs at the base of the analytical
Figure 2: The core model. The spring stiffness was calcu-
steel truss within lated based on the elastic deformation
the South Tower. of the diagonal truss considered as a
simply supported beam resting on the
masonry. Rotational restraints were used
at the ends of floor beams where they
are embedded in the masonry walls.
Cross-sectional properties were cal-
culated from the structural shapes
specified on the drawings for the steel
tower, and from field measurement of
some members.
The steel truss supports 3-inch-thick
terra cotta roof tile and copper clad-
ding, the weight of which we modeled as
concentrated masses at nodal locations.
Other miscellaneous weights, such as
the lantern weight at the top of the core
truss, were also included. The weight of
the floor at various levels was modeled
as concentrated masses at the beam- Figure 3: FE mesh of the tower masonry.
column intersection nodes.
The wind load was calculated in accordance with Minimum Design Loads for
Buildings and Other Structures (ASCE 7-02), using 90 mph as the basic wind speed
for Milwaukee.
The steel structure incorporates tie rods that appear intended to help resist tower
overturning forces between the 12th and 13th floors. The tower was analyzed with
and without these tie rods. The results show that the tie rods do not significantly
influence the stresses in the members or the tower deformations.
The steel stresses throughout the model were found to be within allowable limits,
based on standard design practice at the time the tower was built.
Masonry Wall FE Model
The reactions from the steel truss analysis were applied to a FE model of one side
of the masonry tower from the 9th to 13th floors. The effect of the adjacent perpen-
dicular walls at the tower corners was modeled by applying a symmetric boundary
condition about a 45-degree plane through the center of the corner pier. Figure 3
shows the FE mesh of the masonry tower model.
The cross-sectional properties of the wall and piers were computed, incorporating
the offsets in the wall at different levels. The various colors in Figure 3 represent the
different section and material properties used in the model. SGH analyzed the wall
for gravity loads including the reactions from the steel tower. The resulting stress
values were used to design the repairs at and above the 11th floor.
Elements of the Structural Design

Figure 4 (page 32) schematically shows the locations of some of the major structural
elements that we discuss below.
Durability
SGH addressed the durability goals of the project by careful selection of systems,
materials, and details. Much of the tower structure, both interior and exterior,
is exposed to the elements and subject to temperature extremes, rain, snow, and
humidity, at heights where the wind can drive precipitation into every corner, so it
presented exceptional durability challenges.
Galvanized steel was specified for all new structural steel. As a value engineering
step, the final construction utilized a durable three-coat paint system, comprised of
an inorganic zinc-rich primer followed by an epoxy intermediate coat and finished

with a polyurethane coat. SGH specified stainless steel or hot-dip
galvanized components for all post-installed anchors and threaded
rods. For concrete elements, epoxy-coated reinforcement and wire-
welded fabric was specified for all applications, and a minimum
concrete strength of 5,000 psi.
Ring Beam
The structural analysis found excessive horizontal tension stresses in
the perimeter masonry at the 13th level. These walls supported four
solid masonry gables, incorporating 15-foot diameter clocks, and
massive solid masonry corner turrets, as well as a portion of the load
from the sloping steel-framed roof.
To resist the stresses at the 13th level, we designed a reinforced
concrete “ring beam” that is 1 foot 3 inches wide by 4 feet 6 inches
deep. Because the gable walls and corner turrets were in poor condi-
tion, and constructing the ring beam required removing the masonry
at this level, it was determined that the solution that best matched
the economic and durability goals of the project was to remove and
reconstruct the masonry from the 13th level up, incorporating modern
materials and systems while maintaining the historical appearance
of the tower.
The ring beam was designed using forces derived from the computer
model of the steel roof, as well as loads from the 13th floor and the
clock gables.
The ring beam at each face is supported by the corner turrets and
by four intermediate piers, which also required reconstruction due
to extreme deterioration.
Corner Turrets
At each corner of the tower, the ring beams frame integrally into the Figure 4: Schematic diagram showing location of major new structural elements.
massive concrete cores of the reconstructed corner turrets. The solid
concrete cores are over 7 feet in diameter and nearly 11 feet tall.
The ACI 301 Specifications for Structural Concrete Checklist states that
Clock Gables
heat of hydration should be considered for elements with minimum
dimensions over 2.5 feet. Because the turrets are large by this standard, The clock gables were originally constructed using solid mass masonry
special procedures were specified to address the potential for excessive with embedded structural steel framing. Precast concrete panels
heat gain in these elements. The use of up to 30% flyash or 50% slag attached to new structural-steel framing were used to reconstruct the
replacement of cement was permitted to reduce the heat of hydration. gables. This solution offered structural system continuity with the
A maximum differential concrete temperature of 35 degrees Fahrenheit steel framing in the core truss, eliminated any embedded structural-
and a peak temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit was specified. steel framing that would be vulnerable to future hidden corrosion,
To verify that the contractor’s mix design would meet these goals, and provided a stable backup surface for the brick veneer cavity wall
SGH required the contractor to submit thermal and strength analysis system used to face the new gables.
of the mass concrete mix, including heat-of-hydration analysis of Three 6-inch precast panels were specified to frame the face of
the cement, concrete strength tests, adiabatic heat signature tests on each gable (Figure 5) and two panels for the cheek walls, nominally
6-inch by 12-inch cylinders, and simulation studies. reinforced with #5 bars at 12 inches on center each way at panel
The mix design for the 5,000 psi turret concrete included 615 lb/cy mid-thickness. The panels were designed to resist their self-weight,
of cementitious materials, 32% of which was a combination of Type out-of-plane wind, and seismic forces, providing connections with
C fly ash and slag, as well as a set-retarding/water-reducing admix- slotted and oversized holes between the precast and steel to isolate
ture. The contractor engaged a consultant to perform heat analyses the panels from other loads that were intended to be supported by
of the pour, which predicted a maximum temperature of 130 degrees the steel framing.
Fahrenheit and a maximum temperature differential of 32 degrees
Cintec Ties
Fahrenheit, assuming a placement temperature of 50 degrees and
ambient temperature ranging from 45 degrees to 50 degrees. To address vertical cracking and spreading of the tower walls at the
There were some concerns about the actual pour, because the deliv- 11th floor, the installation of three horizontal 54-foot long, Cintec
ered temperature of the concrete was 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 1-inch diameter deformed stainless-steel rods were specified in each
the air temperature was below 40 degrees, but temperature sensors masonry face. The rods were sized using the tensile stress results
cast into the northwest turret recorded a maximum temperature of from the FE analysis of the masonry wall. In the Cintec system, the
115 degrees Fahrenheit in the middle of the turret and a maximum rods and associated fabric socks are inserted into cored holes, drilled
temperature differential of about 30 degrees Fahrenheit, satisfying horizontally in the plane of the walls at mid-thickness, and grouted.
specified goals. No significant cracking was observed in the concrete The fabric socks prevent uncontrolled dispersal of the grout while
when the contractor removed the forms. “keying” into voids and irregularities in the base material.

Pier Reconstruction
Each tower face had four solid brick masonry
piers that needed to be reconstructed at the
12th story: two round piers approximately 1
foot 9 inches in diameter, and two roughly
rectangular piers with overall dimensions
of approximately 5 feet 6 inches by 2 feet 6
inches. The replacement piers were designed
as reinforced composite masonry elements to
strengthen them beyond what was inherent
in the original unreinforced brick piers. The
piers are reinforced with #6 vertical bars and
#4 ties.
In these composite masonry elements, the
veneer brick served as formwork for the
grout. The brick was constructed in two-
foot lifts. After the mortar set, the brickwork
was braced as needed and filled with masonry
grout. The grout needed to be sufficiently
fluid to fully engage the perimeter brick and
carefully consolidated to ensure composite
action with the brick.
Figure 5: View of the ring beam, corner turrets, and clock gable precast backup during construction.
Construction Sequence
The construction sequence for the tower reconstruction presented The contractor elected to modify the proposed sequence, for schedul-
special challenges. The top story of masonry had to be completely ing reasons, by constructing the ring beams at the 13th floor before
rebuilt, while the sloping roof structure above remained supported constructing the 12th-story piers. Since the piers support the ring
and capable of resisting live, snow, and wind loads. In the construc- beams, SGH was especially concerned about establishing tight joints
tion documents, a specific demolition and construction sequence between the tops of the piers and undersides of the beams. Following
was recommended that would maintain the structural integrity of constructive dialog with the contractor, a sequence was settled upon
the tower during construction, as follows. in which the contractor constructed each composite masonry pier to
1) Remove the clock gable and corner turret masonry down to the bottom of the terra cotta capital, cast in place the concrete backup
the 13th floor. for the capital, leaving a 2-inch gap below the ring beam, and then
2) Remove the steel elements that were embedded in the clock finally filled the gap beneath the ring beam with dry-pack.
gables and the steel framing between the gable faces and
sloped roof framing.
3) Repair or replace remaining corroded steel members
Conclusion
as required. The South Tower of the Milwaukee City Hall had serious structural
4) Install Cintec anchors at the 11th floor. damage that related to its original design, but had been aggravated
5) Reconstruct the floor system at the 12th story. The replace- by decades of exposure to a very aggressive environment. Using
ment floor framing was designed to carry shoring loads a combination of tailored construction materials and techniques,
needed to complete the following steps. structural repairs and reconstruction procedures were developed that
On one side of the tower at a time, complete Steps 6 through 10, were designed to revitalize and extend the useful life of the South
allowing at least one week of curing time at a given side before pro- Tower of the magnificent Milwaukee City Hall, while preserving its
ceeding to the next side: important historical features.▪
6) Shore the central core truss and the 13th floor down to the
new 12th floor.
Mark D. Webster, LEED AP, P.E., is a Senior Staff II –
7) Remove all the masonry at the 13th-story and 12th-story piers,
Structures and project manager at national engineering firm
including one contiguous corner turret.
Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc. He can be reached at
8) Reconstruct the 12th-story piers and corner turret up to the
mdwebster@sgh.com.
bottom of the ring beam.
9) Cast the new concrete ring beam and remaining portion of Gunjeet Juneja, P.E. is a Senior Staff II – Structures at Simpson
the associated corner turret. Gumpertz & Heger Inc.. She can be reached at gjuneja@sgh.com.
10) Resupport all roof framing and floor framing on the newly
Donald O. Dusenberry, P.E., is a senior principal at Simpson Gumpertz
constructed ring beam as required.
& Heger Inc. He can be reached at dodusenberry@sgh.com.
11) Reconstruct clock gables.
Photos courtesy of Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc. (SGH)

FOUNDATION
Foundation Firms Seeing Improvement
Business is getting better.
By Larry Kahaner
T
hat’s the word from foundation companies. Although projects beginning to move off the bottom with slow growth over the next
are not coming along as fast or as plentifully as they did before few years.”
the recession, company officials are seeing a slow but steady The company has recently been building its ground improvement
improvement in the pace of inquiries, bids and projects. business. “It’s more diversification for us. Our approach has always
“Clearly, there’s been a reduction in the amount of work because been to be diversified across different but related techniques and
of the economy,” says Jim Hussin, Director at Hayward Baker, Inc. applications.” The company, which has been in business for 60 years,
(www.haywardbaker.com), headquartered in Odenton, Maryland. is geographically diverse, too, covering the 12 Western states including
“But we’ve turned the corner. There’s not a rapid rise, but we’ve seen Alaska and Hawaii. It also maintains regional offices in California.
some improvement… we’ve definitely seen a pick-up in the past year.”
T
Hayward Baker offers a full range of pre- and post-construction ony Jacobsen, Senior Engineer at Grip-Tite (www.griptite.com)
services for foundation rehabilitation, settlement control, liquefaction of Winterset, Iowa, which has been manufacturing earth
mitigation, soil stabilization, groundwater control, slope stability, exca- anchoring products for almost 90 years, is seeing a rise in
vation support, and underpinning. The company has 20 offices across demand, too. “We’re starting to see a pick-up in industrial work.
the United States, as well as locations in Central and South America, We’re also seeing some increase in residential retrofit, usually two
and Canada. “Soil mixing is growing rapidly, and the techniques of stories or less.”
handling soft soils has evolved over past years,” Hussin notes. “We’re continued on next page
now finding more applications in areas
that were thought to be too expensive,
but are now economically viable.” He
adds: “We have a full range of techniques
that are available to clients, and we can
get creative and offer innovative solutions
to their problems.”
In the near term, Hussin forecasts that
more of their work will be in horizontal
markets such as infrastructure, roads and

bridges. In vertical markets, he sees more
work in hospitals, education and power.
“We’ll see a recovery in commercial first,
and then residential will follow.”
B
ob Carnevale, Business De-
velopment Manager at Seattle-
based DBM Contractors, Inc.
(www.dbmcm.com), agrees that business Design/Build
is improving. “The construction industry
is suffering compared to two or three years Earth Retention
ago, but we have been diversified across Foundation Support
public and private work. Traditionally,
when one is up, the other is down. Prior to Slope Stabilization
the most current downturn, though, they Ground Improvement
were both up. Since then the private sector
has dwindled, so like most other construc- Dewatering
tion companies, we’ve been making our
living from public sector projects.” He
adds: “We think we’re bouncing along
the bottom and our indicators during the 800-562-8460 www.dbmcontractors.com
last six months seem to show that we’re

FOUNDATION
“ The market has shrunk, but we’ve doubled our
business. We continued to hire people to do
R&D work. ”
Jacobsen is seeing a trend toward larger diameter helicals, especially business,” says Petres, who has been involved with helical piles for 39
the 2⅞-inch and the 3½-inch, both for new construction. “We years. “We continued to hire people to do R&D work.”
are within six months of providing a 4½-inch diameter helical for The company serves both the utility market and the civil market
three-story concrete building and lateral loads.” He adds: “We’re with a complete line of helical piles, from small to large, says Petres,
pushing toward a 1¾-inch square bar for retrofit and tie backs for Product Manager – Anchoring Products. “We’re trying to offer an
new construction…next year we’ll see a 2¼-inch square bar, helical alternative product for engineers who are not familiar with helical
shaft, mainly for new construction.” piles. We want to address the issues of why engineers are not using
Jacobsen notes that the new diameters will allow the company to more helical piles.”
get into higher density materials and provide some benefits in highly- To this end, the company has done two things. First, it came up
expansive soil, like that found in the Front Range in Colorado, which with their Strength Squared coupling system. Petres notes that engi-
is the most populated region of the state. neers are wary of using pipes with drilled holes, fearing that they will
deform. “So we came up with a square engagement system which
A
lso touting the benefits of helical piles is Stephen Petres of gives engineers confidence that they’re not going to have bolts that
MacLean Dixie (www.macleandixie.com), located in Franklin shear. We’re offering strength to structural engineers.”
Park, Illinois. “The market has shrunk, but we’ve doubled our Second, the company submitted its helical piers for testing by an
accredited laboratory. “We spent money to submit some of our
products to an ICC AC-358 evaluation
program, about a year and a half ago. We
expect certification this year [2011].” He
says that the company has already been
assigned preliminary certification num-
bers for their 1½-inch, 1¾-inch, 2⅞-inch
and 3½-inch products. “After certifica-
tion, structural engineers will have the
confidence to use our products because
they have been tested by an accredited
lab. They can study the data themselves.”

Petres is confident about the growth
of helical piles as engineers are asked to
squeeze even more costs out of their proj-
ects. “There’s greater pressure for SEs to
cut costs, and I think they’re becoming
more open minded about alternatives like
helicals,” he says. (See ad on page 38.)
M
onotube Pile Corporation
(www.davidsonpipe.com),
part of the Davidson Group
of Companies, is dedicated to manufac-
turing steel piles for exclusive use in the
deep foundations industry. The Canton,
Ohio company mainly serves the United
States market, says General Manager Sam
Kosa. “It appears that highway work is
increasing slightly. We’re seeing more bid-
ding action.” He adds: “We’re starting to
see more activity in government projects,
continued on page 38
Put infrastructure spending
on a solid foundation.
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FOUNDATION
CONTINUOUSLY HOT-ROLLED THREADED STEEL BARS FOR DEEP FOUNDATION ELEMENTS, MICRO
PILES, MULTI-BAR CAISSONS, TIE-BACKS, DOUBLE CORROSION PROTECTED ANCHORS, FORMWORK TIE
ROD SYSTEMS, POST-TENSIONING SYSTEMS, HOLLOW CORE SELF DRILLING ANCHOR SYSTEMS, GRADES
80, 97, 150, 160 KSI, 60 FOOT MILL LENGTHS OR GREATER, DESIGNED FOR HEAVY CONSTRUCTION,
HIGHER LOADS, BETTER ENGINEERING, BETTER DESIGN
SAS HIGH STRENGTH BAR REINFORCEMENT
and we’re anticipating more government

jobs this year.”

The company offers four diameters, four
gauges, and three rates of taper that allow
the designer to select a Monotube suitable
for a wide variety of economical applica-
tions. For fully embedded foundation piles,
the most commonly used diameters are 12
and 14 inches, with design loads up to 150
tons, contingent on soil capacity. Kosa
notes that one advantage of the Monotube
pile is the ability to nest a tapered section
into an extension to produce a compact
bundle. This process reduces shipping and
storage volume by as much as 40 percent.
SAS
GRADE 97 FOUNDATION DOWEL REINFORCEMENT
F
FOR WTC TOWER 2
elix Ferrer, President and CEO of
STRESSTEEL Fairfield, New Jersey-based SAS
100 NEW DUTCH LANE Stressteel, Inc. (www.stressteel.com),
FAIRFIELD, NJ 07004 says that business is definitely getting better.
P: 973 . 244 . 5995 “Some projects that were stopped two years
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ago are coming back to life. Developers
are now talking to us about new sites, new
developments and new projects in New
York City. We have picked up some work,
and it’s getting pretty exciting.”
TM He says that his company offers 3-inch
diameter grade 150 bar anchors, each with
a capacity of 1,028 kips. These anchors
are being used to tie down One World
Trade Center – about 230 anchors that
are about 90 feet deep – and also will
be used on the other buildings in the
Strength Squared™
complex. “That’s pretty significant for
foundations, that we’re using this type of
tie-down technology.”
Steel Cast Coupling System
I
n the area of ground improve-
ment, Lyle Simonton, Director
Increased Torque Capacity of Business Development for St.
Louis-based Subsurface Constructors
Bolt Holes Align for Faster Assembly (www.subsurfaceconstructors.com),
says the company has done well in the
Bolts Do Not Shear During past year. “We had an extremely busy
Installation year. There is still a lot of work: DOTs,
wastewater, schools, medical, etc.” The
Lighter Weight Leads and Extensions 100-year old company is working on some
high profile projects, like deep founda-
Hot Dip Galvanized to ASTM A-153 tions for the new Mississippi River Bridge
Missouri approach and ground improve-
ment work for the Indiana Department of
www.MacLeanDixie.com Transportation. He further notes that some
C o p y r i g h t © 2 0 11 M a c L e a n D i x i e H F S
continued on page 40

FOUNDATION retail commercial projects are coming on line, too, such as senior earthmovers also have large carbon footprints. We are faster and use
living facilities. less equipment.” He adds: “As many owners are also developing more
Simonton says that the company has been highlighting the green sustainable construction projects, they are exhibiting preference for
benefits of soil mitigation using its Vibro-Stone Column machines. this soil reinforcement approach for the LEED benefits and reduced
“We can often build stone columns without having to pre-drill. carbon footprint, compared to more conventional foundation sup-
This limits how much spoil we generate, so that’s positive for a more port options.”
sustainable construction approach.” The RAP system is also more cost effective, says FitzPatrick. “Design
teams, contractors and owners are all challenged to build more with
A
lso touting the green benefits of soil improvement is Geopier less. Many project teams are opting for the schedule and cost benefits
Foundation Company, Inc. (www.geopier.com), based in offered by a RAP system, as opposed to costly over-excavation and
Mooresville, North Carolina. “Our biggest role has been as replacement, or deep foundations.”
a developer of technologies suited for any site. We have a variety of
“T
systems to treat virtually any soil condition. Impact systems allow us hings are looking up on the testing side of the founda-
to treat to deeper depth, up to 45 feet in a cost-effective way,” says tions business,” according to Gina Beim, P.E., senior
Brendan FitzPatrick, P.E., Director of Engineering and Development, consulting engineer-marketing at GRL Engineers
North America. The company highlights its Rammed Aggregate Pier (www.pile.com) in Cleveland, Ohio. “We see an increase in remote
(RAP) system, which FitzPatrick says lowers a project’s carbon foot- testing. Business seems to be picking up.” She credits the increase
print because they’re not using steel and concrete for driven piles to several factors, including the cost savings involved with remote
or caissons, both of which have larger carbon footprints. “Massive testing as opposed to on-site testing. “We have been seeing some
results of campaigns to help DOT understand remote testing. Lots
of structures are transmitting data now. This is a trend. We’re feeling
Pile Driving Analyzer ® Model PAX the pull for this.” She notes that AASHTO’s LRFD bridge design
standards will lead to more testing, and that the cost effectiveness of
Tests on remote testing will become of greater interest. “We hope that testing
Location or in a more economical way will give the market a method to keep
Remotely with standards high while offering cost-saving methods.” Aside from the
savings of not needing someone on site to check readings, another
cost benefit is not having to ship wires and cables to the project site.
Beim adds that the company is introducing a product aimed at the
drilled shaft market. It will include remote sensing. “The Thermal

Integrity Profiler (TIP) inspects the integrity of a drilled shaft using
iCAP™: instant a temperature method,” says Beim. Now in prototype, the product
capacity by is expected to be available in spring or summer. “We can inspect
signal matching the drilled shaft that has been fitted with the temperature sensor
remotely. It’s imbedded in the shaft itself and will indicate how good
Dynamic Load Testing of Deep Foundations the concrete is.”▪
Smart (wireless)
Sensors
eliminate cables
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Historic U
nlike some parts of Europe,
America has yet to develop a
formal designation or description
structures
of a “Preservation Engineer”; yet
many members of the structural engineering
community regularly inspect, evaluate, and
recommend repairs, interventions, and modi-
fications for the thousands of buildings on
significant structures of the past national and local historic registers and the
many others that qualify for such status (Figure
1). Because of the predominance of vernacular Figure 1: Inspection of Masonry Façade. Courtesy
structures and small religious buildings that of Dr. Debra F. Laefer.
constitute this specific building stock and the
they tend to develop small cracks. In traditional
proportionally modest resources generally
masonry, the weak lime-based mortars tend
available for their maintenance and upgrading,
to crack, instead of the substantially stronger
small local firms are often engaged on their
brick. This is intentional. In part this is because
behalf. The nature of these firms, and in fact
the mortar has the ability to heal itself to some
that of most structural engineering firms, is
extent (referred to as self-annealing), because
that few have engineers on staff with specialized
of the carbonation based curing process which
training in assessing historic buildings.
relies on air (as opposed to the hydration based
curing for concrete, which is dependent upon
“Old” Buildings free water). A soft mortar can also be periodi-
Although it is true cally removed from between the facing side of
Critical Skills for Structural that Newton’s pre-
cepts do not differ
the bricks in the process of repointing. With
Portland cement based mortars, the mortar is
Engineers Encountering based on a building’s nearly as strong, if not stronger, than the brick.
age or architec- Thus the brick is as likely to develop cracks,as
Historic Structures tural significance, the mortar, and periodic maintenance cycle of
there needs to be an repointing is nearly impossible without risking
By Dr. Debra F. Laefer acknowledgment that material production, damage to the bricks as the mortar is removed
material selection, structural systems, and join- from the joints. As seen in this example, failure
ing options are all constantly evolving topics. to understand material properties and their
This is problematic, as what is taught in most roles in distinction to those of modern ones,
civil engineering programs focuses exclusively jeopardize the long-term viability of preserv-
on new construction with only the rarest of ing buildings.
curriculum providing any instruction in tradi- Not only is this problematic with respect
tional or “archaic” technologies. This fact leaves to preserving architectural heritage but, as
the majority of today’s engineers ill-equipped America tries to come to terms with sustain-
to address the problems of older structures, ability, life-cycle, and embodied energy issues,
Dr. Debra F. Laefer is an American who is because these buildings include materials and two things need to be acknowledged. The
a tenured lecturer in Civil Engineering at structural systems that behave in ways that fun- first is that an existing structure represents an
the University College Dublin in Ireland damentally differ from modern construction. enormous previous investment from an envi-
and past Interim Director of Conservation A common example of the criticality of this is ronmental perspective. Thus, its replacement
Research for their Master’s in Urban and in understanding the traditional role of lime- represents a complete loss of that investment
Building Conservation. She is also Chair based mortars and their expected strength and requires the major environmental expen-
of the Heritage and Existing Structures capacity. Portland cement’s general displace- diture of manufacturing new materials and
Committee for the Earthquake Engineering ment of lime as the main binder in late 20th energy investment in their assembly, as well
Research Institute. Dr. Laefer may be century mortars was a failure to recognize a as the further energy needed for demolition,
reached at debra.laefer@ucd.ie. major role of mortar as the sacrificial element removal, and disposal of the existing structure.
in the building fabric. As buildings move Another example relates to the plaster ren-
due to a wide range of external factors, from derings over adobe walls. When removed, the
temperature-based expansion to differential structures fair much worse from a durability
settlement because of non-uniform loading, perspective. They also become more vulner-
able to damage and subsequent collapse when
To stack Waste heat to drier
Preheated air for burners exposed to seismic loading. Similarly, if the ren-
dering is repaired with a cement-based product,
the subsequent performance tends to be vastly
inferior to the application of traditional, local
materials. So not only are non-local materials
Preheat
Movement of cars
Fire Cool
Movement of gases
inferior to those originally used, they often
require higher levels of embodied energy as
Figure 2: Tunnel Kiln. Courtesy of they must be shipped greater distances.
Dr. Debra F. Laefer.
42 January 2011
are on the final deformation at the time of
Acquiring the failure. Current practice dictates determin-
Knowledge and Skills ing the Young’s modulus early in the loading
The situation is complicated. In some cases, curve and through a series of discrete measure-
gaining the specialty skills and background ments. Accurate properties are essential for
needed to sensitively and cost-effectively the analysis of an historic structure.
work with historic buildings can be rela- The issue is further complicated by the higher
tively straight forward as is the case with variability of traditional materials compared
documentation, where surveying skills and to their modern counterparts. An easy to
conservation theory are areas where the field understand example of this is in brick making. Figure 3: Traditional Scove Kiln.
is well established and literature is readily Modern brick production employs a tunnel
available. Even legislation and standards from kiln to dry and fire the units. The equipment industry has gone to greater transparency, in
around the world are now readily available is highly controlled with respect to the tem- part as a function of the expiration of patents
through the power of the Internet. perature levels and exposure time of the bricks and also in recognition that government agen-
Other areas, such as masonry evaluation and to the heat. Furthermore, the conveyor belt- cies often control the means and methods used
timber intervention, are arguably less accessible like arrangement of the tunnel kiln promotes a on a project. Thus, the permitted technologies
through self-study. In fact, at a recent workshop uniform heat exposure (Figure 2). In traditional must cooperate in facilitating verification of
for the development of curricula in Preservation kilns there was little heat flow so that bricks products and procedures. Increasingly, the
Engineering held at the University of Vermont located closer to the heat were more thoroughly teaching of these techniques is occurring at
in collaboration with the National Center for fired than those further away, resulting in mate- the master’s level. Additionally, many faculty
Preservation Technology and Training, there was rial variabilities with coefficients of variation member use examples in the classroom involv-
a fairly strong consensus amongst academics in excess of 20%, even after hand culling of ing major historic monuments to illustrate the
and practitioners alike that to best understand the material (Figure 3). Finally, just to further criticality of understanding fundamental soil
masonry and timber not only did specialty con- complicate the matter, the modern engineer mechanics. A common example is teaching
tent need to be developed, but that the ideal must evaluate what decades (if not centuries) of primary and secondary clay consolidation
situation would include firstly the introduc- exposure has done to material capacity. calculation using the Tower of Pisa as a mini-
tion of formal courses on modern masonry and Another problem is that many of the subjects case history. Such an approach enlivens the
timber. This approach might on the surface seem that the modern structural engineer needs to classroom and introduces, in an indirect way,
counter-intuitive. However, because current study in preservation engineering fall into the the fundamental role of engineers and engi-
practices are based on much more homogenous category of either developing technologies or neering in historic preservation.
materials, where the variability of performance is emerging fields. Some examples of the former Unfortunately, there are topics that cannot
highly controlled through modern production include non-destructive analysis, sensors, sta- be addressed effectively through any of these
and material inspection methods. Thus, first bilization, repair, and treatment strategies. means. Teaching forensics is a good example, as
studying the contemporary design methodolo- Base-isolation is a good example of something even the most fundamental skills such as con-
gies is actually much easier. that was nearly completely unknown 30 years ducting a load take down and understanding
The vast majority of older brick and timber ago but is now becoming a more mainstream a building with respect to code development
structures in America are vernacular and were (although still quite expensive) option for requires more than “chalk and talk” instruction.
designed and built without the benefit of the seismic protection of historic buildings. Teaching preservation ethics in a meaningful
an engineer, even when the engagement of In the latter category is the field of disaster way is another good example. In both instances
engineers for larger structures was already management, where training and expertise are fieldwork, case histories, and mentoring by
common practice. Consequently, the configu- rapidly evolving along with changing com- experienced engineers are inherent components
ration of a large percentage of these structures munity expectations. to the process. Such experiential learning can
was based on common practices. Although Perhaps the geotechnical community can only be obtained through mentored profes-
some of these are documented in a few early provide a partial model on how structural sional practice or through the creation of highly
20th century handbooks, the texts are hard engineers can move forward to incorporate specialized graduate level courses.
to access, arguably incomplete, and do not fundamental training for engineering students
approach the subject in a way that would be that would be appropriate for interacting
familiar to a modern engineer. For example, with historic buildings. Geotechnics is an
Conclusion
modern practice is based upon a certain area where specialty products have long been In summary, America’s structural engineers
probability that the materials are within a developed for heritage buildings, because have much to learn about historic buildings, if
particular performance range. That perfor- of the potential liability during subsurface we want them safely preserved for the sake of
mance level is in part an outgrowth of testing construction when it occurs adjacent to one both architectural heritage and environmental
methods that the structural engineering com- of these facilities. From a financial impera- protection. Some of this information is readily
munity has developed and adopted through tive, several sub-specialties have developed available for self study and some from spe-
consensus documents, such as those published including compensation grouting, jet grout- cialty courses, but eventually the community
by ASTM. Since most of these standards did ing, micropiles, and screw piles, just to name will have to embrace and financially support
not exist until recently, the limited testing data a few. From 1970 through the early 1990s, the dual concepts of preservation engineer-
from the period of original construction is these technologies faced great difficulties in ing as a formal master’s level endeavor and of
hard to evaluate in a modern context. A per- gaining wide spread acceptance and adoption, preservation research as a scholarly pursuit
fect example is stiffness. In the few available especially on public projects because of an worthy of tenure at top academic institutions
documents where deformation of masonry absence of widely available testing data and and funding at a national level. Such is already
piers was documented, the reported results clearly defined specifications. Since then, the the case in parts of Europe.▪

Great achievements notable structural engineers
Charles Conrad Schneider

By Frank Griggs, Jr., Ph.D., P.E., P.L.S.
C
harles Schneider was born in Bridge at Ainsworth, Washington. His men-
Apolda, Germany and received tors, Macdonald, Chanute and Morison were
his engineering education at the some of the most renowned bridge engineers
Royal School of Technology at of the time.
Chemintz, Germany. After graduating in In 1883, he set himself up in business as a
1864, he worked as a mechanical engineer “civil engineer in New York making a specialty
before immigrating to the United States in of designing and superintending bridges and
1867. He went to work for the Paterson structural work for buildings.” One of his
Locomotive Works for four years before going first large clients was the Canadian Pacific
on to the Michigan Bridge and Construction Railway which was racing westward in com-
Company in Detroit. This was his first profes- petition with Jim Hill’s Great Northern.
sional involvement with bridges which would One of Schneider’s first jobs was to design
C. C. Schneider
occupy most of his career. In 1873, he went wooden Howe Trusses, his most famous
to work for the Erie Railroad in New York being the Stoney Creek Viaduct in the Selkirk completed a design of the 525-foot span,
City. Here he worked for Octave Chanute, located 125 feet above the river, in the spring
who designed the Kansas City Bridge, the first of 1882. Due to slowness of the iron delivery,
bridge over the Missouri River in 1867-68. In even though it was the first cantilever designed
addition, George Morison, who had worked by Schneider, it would not be completed
with Chanute on the Kansas City Bridge, until 1887. It lasted until 1910, when it was
was there as his Principal Assistant Engineer. replaced by a new steel bridge.
While with the Erie, “one of his duties was to On October 13, 1882, the Michigan
check the strain sheets and plans submitted Central Railroad asked Schneider to submit
by bridge companies... Bridge work up to this a proposal for a bridge across the Niagara
time had usually been let on a competitive Gorge near Roebling’s suspension bridge.
lump-sum basis. Mr. Schneider soon found Schneider’s Second Stoney Creek Viaduct.
They wanted “an estimate for a double-track
that this method was unsatisfactory, and the railroad bridge of 900 feet clear span, for the
Railroad Company’s officials decided to make Mountains. The only iron in the bridge was purpose of ascertaining the probable cost
their own plans; and it was Mr. Schneider’s the wrought-iron verticals and miscellaneous of bridging the Niagara below the Falls...
duty to prepare them...” bolts and plates. Even though built of wood intimating that a braced arch reaching from
In 1875, he went with Chanute who was and considered to be a temporary bridge, it cliff to cliff might be the proper design for
selected as one of the Board of Engineers to survived until 1893 and was replaced by a the proposed structure.” He submitted his
review proposals for a bridge at Blackwell’s steel arch bridge designed by Schneider. completed design to the Central Bridge
Island across the East River in New York He was asked to design an iron bridge, Works of Buffalo, New York who in turn
City. While reviewing them, he met Charles just west of his Stoney Creek Viaduct, over submitted a tender to the Niagara Bridge
Macdonald who eventually won the com- the Fraser River. This river was a fast flow- Company. The tender was accepted by the
petition. After leaving this position, he ing stream which precluded placement of Board of Directors on April 11, 1883.
went to work for a year with the Delaware falseworks in the river bed. Schneider, based The erection technique worked out by
Bridge Company and Macdonald. During upon his previous exposure to the Blackwell’s Central Bridge Company and Schneider
this period the Delaware Bridge Company Island Bridge competition, decided to build became the pattern which was followed on
had an agreement with the Edgemoor Iron this bridge using cantilever techniques. He many cantilevers in the future. They started
Company to fabricate all of their bridges. by building their towers and anchor spans
Schneider was stationed at the Edgemoor from falsework resting on rock banks. They
Company, where he designed and supervised designed and built two travelers to erect the
construction of several bridges including the rest of the bridge. The travelers worked out-
Pennsylvania Railroad Rockville Bridge, 23 ward on each cantilever until they reached
spans of 160 feet with two tracks, over the the end of the cantilever span. The suspended
Susquehanna River and the Cohoes Bridge span was 120 feet long and the maximum
over the Mohawk River on the Delaware and reach of each traveler was 40 feet. Schneider
Hudson Railroad. did not want the traveler to go beyond the
From 1879-1883, he was associated with end of the cantilever span, as he did not want
George Morison on the Plattsmouth, to overload the cantilever span or anchor-
Bismarck and Blair Bridges across the age. This left 40 feet of suspended span that
Missouri River as well as the Snake River Fraser River Bridge. could not be erected by the travelers. He

spans of 810 feet in the clear, 840 feet center
to center of piers, making them the longest
cantilevers in the United States. Foundations
were started, and steel contracts for the super-
structure awarded in March 1895. After a
fast start the company ran out of funds and
construction halted. Washington Bridge over the Harlem River.
He remained with Pencoyd until 1900, when
it was purchased by the American Bridge the deaths of 13 men. The bridge was finally
Niagara Cantilever from a postcard. Company, a J. P. Morgan led consolidation of opened on October 27, 1917.
28 of the largest steel fabricators and construc- Schneider was active in ASCE, serving as
solved this by placing wooden beams across tors in the United States. At American Bridge Director, Vice-President and President in
the 40-foot gap and erecting the rest of the Company, he was appointed Chief Engineer 1905. He won the Rowland Prize for his
truss by hand methods. as well as Director and Vice President until paper The Cantilever Bridge at Niagara Falls
The speed at which the bridge was erected 1903, and then until his death as Consulting in 1886, the Norman Medal for his paper
was impressive, with the entire bridge taking Engineer. The President of the firm noted, The Structural Design of Buildings in 1905
four months. What Schneider and Central “Mr. Schneider, without question, stood at and Movable Bridges in 1908. In addition,
Bridge did was to erect the superstructure of the very head of his profession. And, in addi- he contributed to many discussions of the
a new style bridge, using new techniques, over tion, I believe never had an enemy in his entire papers of his colleagues.
900 feet long and 230 feet over the Niagara career.” In 1903 he, along with Theodore His memoir in the Transactions ASCE noted,
River in less than two months. Cooper, was appointed by the Government “Mr. Schneider was dearly beloved by his
In June 1885, three commissioners were of Japan to develop sets of plans for Japanese many friends on account of his sterling
appointed to oversee building of a bridge railroad bridges, character and his kindly disposition. He was
across the Harlem River near John Jervis’ Around 1895, Theodore Cooper suggested always willing and ready to assist brother engi-
High Bridge. They set up a design com- Schneider should take his place as consulting neers with advice, giving to them freely from
petition and offered premiums of $1,500, engineer before construction of the Quebec his rich fund of knowledge, and large indeed is
$1,000 and $500 to the top three entries. On Bridge commenced, due to his age and declin- the number of engineers today in responsible
December 3, 1885 seventeen designs were ing health. The bridge company did not accept positions, who owe their training and their
submitted. Designs of the Union Bridge this recommendation, and Cooper continued position to him. He was most democratic
Company, Edward Shaw, Julius Adams, C. in nominal charge with the Phoenix Bridge in his ways and of a lovable disposition, and
C. Schneider and Wilhelm Hildenbrand were Company taking over more and more of the gained, in the highest degree the respect of
favored by the commission. To help them in design. In 1907, after the August failure of the everybody who came in contact with him. He
making a decision, they formed a Board of bridge, Schneider was selected to investigate always stood for good work, good designs, and
Experts consisting of Theodore Cooper, P. P. the failure of Cooper’s Bridge. He wrote an good details, and the Engineering Profession
Dickinson, Edward Kendall and McAlpine extensive report on the bridge design which is greatly indebted to him for the present high
to review the plans. The Commission rec- was included with the Report of the Royal standard that has been obtained in bridge
ommended Schneider’s design for the first Commission. He was asked to respond to and structural work. His was a most useful
premium. The design was modified by the three questions, the most important being, life, well lived, an example and an inspira-
Union Bridge Company, and the bridge was “The advisability of discarding the present tion to the Profession, that will remain in
completed on February 22. It wasn’t totally plans of the Quebec Bridge, and recom- the memory of all who had the privilege of
opened until December 1889, when residents mendations as to a new design.” Schneider’s knowing him.”▪
tore down the barricades and started using report was finished early in 1908, but not
the bridge. released until the Commission’s report was
In 1886, he entered into a partnership with released. He, after a lengthy structural analysis
the Pencoyd Iron Works to design, fabricate of the bridge, had eight conclusions, the most
and erect their bridges. During this period, important being, “The present design is not
Schneider designed or built the Delaware well adapted to a structure of the magnitude Schneider’s Blackwell’s Island Plan.
River Bridge for the Pennsylvania Railroad, of the Quebec Bridge and should, therefore,
L. L. Buck’s record setting arch bridge over be discarded and a different design adopted
the Niagara River below the falls, The James for the new bridge, retaining only the length Dr. Griggs specializes in the restoration of
River Bridge for the Chesapeake and Ohio of the spans in order to use the present piers.” historic bridges, having restored many 19th
Railroad and many other smaller bridges in On May 17, 1911, Schneider was Century cast and wrought iron bridges.
the United States, Mexico and Japan. appointed a full member of the Board that He was formerly Director of Historic
One of his potentially greatest bridges was at was to oversee design and construction of Bridge Programs for Clough, Harbour
Blackwell’s Island where, in 1893, the Long the replacement bridge, serving with Charles & Associates LLP in Albany, NY, and is
Island Railroad Company was planning a Monsarrat and Ralph Modjeski. Schneider now an independent Consulting Engineer.
bridge across the East River. Schneider was died January 8, 1916, eight months before Dr. Griggs can be reached via email at
selected as engineer and designed a cantilever another major bridge failure when the sus- fgriggs@nycap.rr.com.
bridge crossing the two river channels and pended span being lifted into place slipped
the island. It had two identical cantilever off its supports into the river resulting in

Product Watch updates on emerging technologies, products and services
SIPs Provide Green Building Benefits in

Traditional and Cutting-Edge Designs
By Joe Pasma, P.E.
I
n the 1970s, geodesic domes were the
vision of efficient, futuristic build-
ings. It seems that every community
had a least one of these Buckminster
Fuller-inspired creations – whether a home,
restaurant, office, church or motel.
Today, green buildings typically look no
different than conventional buildings. The
unseen systems and materials are often more
important than the outward appearance. A
case in point is structural insulated panels
(SIPs). SIPs contribute to a range of envi-
ronmentally responsible design goals, while
meeting the structural and aesthetic needs of a
host of building types and architectural styles.
SIPs provide a strong and stiff base for a living roof at the Bend, Oregon, Metro Parks and Recreation
Structural Attributes District headquarters.
Structural insulated panels are high-per- structural diaphragms to resist high winds and a tight, high-performance building envelope.
formance, engineered wall, roof, and floor earthquakes. They have been proven for use in The rigid foam core offers continuous insulation
components for use in single- and multi- seismic design categories D, E and F. across the panels’ width and length, reduc-
family homes, as well as schools, worship In roof applications, SIPs perform well under ing the thermal bridging created by lumber.
facilities, offices, retail, and other light com- gravity and snow loads. Designers can specify Additionally, the large-size panels have signifi-
mercial buildings. The panels are made of SIPs to create vaulted, open interior spaces. cantly fewer joints that require sealing.
two outer sheathing layers (typically oriented Since they have long clear span capability – The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE)
strand board – OSB) laminated to a rigid typically up to 20 feet – SIPs can reduce the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)
insulating foam core (such as expanded poly- need for intermediate structural supports. evaluated the energy performance of SIPs
styrene – EPS). The skins and foam core work They can also be employed in roof struc- versus stick-built framing. Their analysis of
together to achieve high strength in a manner tures without an engineered truss system. complete wall assemblies found that SIPs had
comparable to other engineered structural The results are large, soaring rooflines, open an approximately 47 percent higher whole-
components, such as I-joists. and vaulted ceilings, and overall extra indoor wall R-value than a comparably sized stud
In wall applications, SIPs provide exceptional space for applications otherwise very difficult wall (i.e., 3.5-inch-thick core SIP versus 2
strength in racking and diaphragm shear capac- to achieve with stick-built construction. by 4 studs at 16 inches on center).
ities, making them suitable as shear walls and Most SIP manufacturers work with design- Because of SIPs’ capabilities, more design
ers and specifiers to ensure their panels are professionals are using them in net zero-
accepted by local building code officials and energy buildings. The panels can help reduce
are in compliance with the building codes, annual heating and cooling demands by 50
including the International Building Code (IBC) to 60 percent compared to stick framing,
and International Residential Code (IRC). This going a long way toward reducing overall
process includes providing alternative material energy needs. This is particularly important
evaluation or listing reports for SIPs showing in states such as California, where energy
evidence of compliance with code requirements efficiency is mandated. California’s Title 24
as an alternate method of construction. Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential
and Nonresidential Buildings require net-
zero energy construction by 2020 for homes
Green Building Advantages and 2030 for commercial buildings. All
In addition to their ability to meet a range of across the country, the American Institute
structural needs, SIPs support green building of Architects (AIA) has put forth its AIA 2030
goals, including improved energy efficiency Commitment, calling for all new buildings to
and indoor air quality. be carbon neutral by 2030.
The key environmental advantage of designing The tightness of the SIPs’ envelope also
For walls, SIPs provide exceptional strength in
and building with SIPs is their ability to create makes buildings less prone to infiltration by
racking capacities.

Helping speed construction, SIPs arrive at the jobsite in large, ready-to-install sections. SIPs meet a wide range of structural needs in roof, wall and floor systems.
common pollutants such as radon, molds, changed is a growing recognition of their

Joe Pasma, P.E., is the technical manager
pollen, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contribution to green building and ability to
for Premier Building Systems, a firm
lead dust and asbestos. As such, SIPs can be an work well with a range of building designs.
that develops and manufactures high-
important part of creating a healthier indoor For structural engineers and other design
performance, energy-efficient structural
environment, which is especially important team members who have not yet designed
insulated panels. A licensed structural
in homes, schools and healthcare facilities. a structure with SIPs, to get started, contact
engineer, Pasma has worked with SIPs for
For these and other green building advan- a panel manufacturer or dealer for detailed
almost two decades. Joe may be reached at
tages, including reduced construction waste, information on load capacities, panel sizes,
jpasma@insulfoam.com.
SIPs can help design professionals earn up code acceptance and other related factors.▪
to 36 or more points in the U.S. Green
Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED) program
for homes, and up to 23 points for com-
mercial construction.
Design Flexibility
Design teams are using SIPs in a range
of architectural styles, from traditional to
ultra-modern. SIP buildings look no dif-
ferent than other construction materials,
and can also enable innovative designs.

For example, architects working for Brad
Pitt’s Make It Right Foundation to help
rebuild New Orleans, developed a “Float
House” that uses SIP walls and roofs as
Pierce County Terminal, Tacoma, Washington
part of a modular structure built on a chas-
sis designed to float. In Bend, Oregon, the
Bend Metro Parks and Recreation District
opened a new headquarters with a green
“living” roof placed on top of structural
insulated panels. Pushing the design enve-
lope even further, a commercial building in
Seattle used six cargo shipping containers
with a roof made of SIPs. Each of these
projects incorporated a host of other green
features; the design teams selected the SIPs
as a key part of that, as well as for their abil-
ity to meet aesthetic and structural needs.
Conclusion
SIP technology is not new, having been
around for several decades. What has

LegaL PersPectives discussion of legal issues of interest to structural engineers
Dispute Resolution Techniques

By David J. Hatem, PC and Jordan S. Rattray
C
onstruction projects are built
through the application of ideas,
decisions and judgments made by
different individuals and stake-
holders in the project. Misunderstandings and
differences of opinion are daily occurrences,
even on successful projects. It is common
for some issues that arise during the course
of a project to become a dispute. There are
as many ways to resolve disputes as there
are ways for disputes to arise. Disputes are
resolved through techniques ranging from
court judgments to negotiations between
business partners. In response to the restric- or jury. Through the process of litigation (ADR) methods have been developed. The
tiveness and uncertainty in taking disputes to the parties identify the issues in dispute, most common forms of ADR are Arbitration
trial, alternative methods of resolving disputes exchange information and documents, gather or Mediation. ADR also covers informal
have become commonplace. testimony from people with knowledge, and negotiation or other methods of resolving
The occurrence of a dispute is often antici- retain expert witnesses to render opinions. a dispute other than through a judgment
pated by parties, and dispute resolution Ultimately, after what might be several years, entered by a court. All ADR methods are
procedures are agreed to and defined in the parties will present their factual and legal voluntary and must be agreed to by the par-
contracts. Other times, a dispute resolution arguments to a judge or jury which will render ties. Contracts often set forth the method(s) of
process is developed in response to the cir- a decision, thereby resolving the dispute. In dispute resolution that the parties do or may
cumstances surrounding the dispute and the its simplest form, a litigation case will involve agree to should a dispute arise. Contractual
needs of the parties. This article will describe one Plaintiff and one Defendant; however, it dispute resolution processes can be straight
some of the more typical dispute resolution is common, especially in construction related forward or can set forth numerous steps the
techniques, and the benefits and limitations cases, for cases to involve multiple parties, parties must take before the final resolution
to each option. The parties to a dispute should cross-claims, counter-claims, and multiple method (typically litigation or arbitration)
look at the issues and circumstances involved claims for damages. can be commenced.
in their dispute when choosing a dispute reso- Litigation is very expensive, and requires a
Arbitration
lution technique. lot of time from both attorneys and from the
project personnel and representative princi- Arbitration involves the resolution of a dispute
Traditional Dispute Resolution pals of the firm. The costs associated with the through the issuance of an award by a single
exchanging of information, especially in the arbitrator or an arbitration panel. Arbitration
Litigation
era of emails and electronic documents, and is similar to litigation in that all parties will
Litigation is the traditional way of formally preparing for trial can be daunting, especially present their factual and legal arguments to
resolving a dispute that parties are unable to when there are multiple parties. Once a law- a decision maker, who will issue an award,
resolve on their own. Litigation is the pro- suit is filed, it does not mean that the parties which is intended to be a final resolution
cess of resolving a dispute through the court must give up trying to resolve the dispute on of the dispute. There are however some sig-
system, which commences when one party, their own. The parties are permitted, and are nificant, and important, differences between
the Plaintiff, files a Complaint against another usually strongly encouraged by the Court, to litigation and arbitration proceedings.
party, the Defendant. The parties to the litiga- try to resolve the dispute on their own using The most significant shortcoming of arbitra-
tion are represented by attorneys. Ultimately Alternative Dispute Resolution techniques, any tion is that, with the exception of a few very
the court, through either a jury verdict or a time before a judgment is entered by the Court. limited circumstances, there is no right to
judge’s decision, will enter a judgment in Once a judgment has been entered, either party appeal an award once issued. This removes
favor of one party. The litigation process has the option of appealing the decision to a an important check and balance which is
is defined and governed by Rules of Civil higher court. It often takes years for a case to inherent in the litigation process, the right
Procedure, which can be rigid and inflexible be resolved once litigation is initiated. to appeal a bad decision. Any party should
when compared to alternative methods of consider the lack of appeal before agreeing
dispute resolution. to arbitrate a dispute. Other differences
Litigation is typically the final step in the
Alternative Dispute Resolution are that the parties must pay for the time
process, initiated only after the parties have In response to the expense, formality and of the arbitrator(s), and discovery is typi-
been unable to resolve the dispute and need risk of an adverse finding inherent in litiga- cally not allowed, or limited by agreement.
the assistance of a decision maker, the judge tion cases, Alternative Dispute Resolution Resolution of the dispute is often efficient

and a decision is typically issued more quickly ultimate goal of moving the project forward. Conclusion
than in litigation. Additionally, the proceed- Participants in a partnering session will be the
There are numerous techniques for resolving
ings are confidential and are not a matter of project personnel and principals. The parties
a dispute. Some techniques are formal, while
public record. Another important difference will identify issues and discuss them as they
others are informal and are tailored to the
is that an arbitrator may also consider issues arise. If resolution of issues cannot be achieved
needs of the dispute. The parties to a dispute
of equity or fairness, and are not limited by at the partnering session, the parties often
can agree to any method of resolution and
legal precedent like a court is. Depending on discuss ways to work around the dispute until
often contracts spell out a resolution process.
your position, this can either be helpful or it is resolved. While a partnering session is a
When agreeing to a dispute resolution pro-
harmful. The parties have the right to agree to method of resolving issues, it is also intended
cess, whether it is in the contract negotiation
any of the factors of an arbitration proceeding, to encourage communication and maintain
stage or after the dispute has arisen, each party
such as whether the award will be binding or good working relationships.
must weigh the benefits and limitations of
non-binding.
Negotiation each available dispute resolution technique.
Mediation All alternative methods of dispute resolution
Negotiation of a dispute, whether it involves
are voluntary, and must be agreed to by all
Mediation is a non-binding, strictly voluntary, a casual conversation between long time
parties. Therefore, they are often more suc-
entirely confidential process which uses the business partners or structured settlement
cessful methods of resolving a dispute in a
assistance of a third party neutral, a media- discussions, can be a cost effective way to
timely and cost effective manner.
tor, to achieve a settlement of the dispute. resolving any dispute. At the beginning of a
Mediation is flexible process that can be dispute, parties to the dispute may sit down
David J. Hatem, PC, is the founding Partner
tailored to the needs of the parties and the and try and negotiate a resolution of some
of the multi-practice law firm Donovan
dispute. Mediation involves the mutual agree- or all of the issues in dispute. If not entirely
Hatem LLP. He leads the firm’s Professional
ment of all parties to enter into the mediation successful, a negotiation session may result in
Practice Group. Mr. Hatem can be reached
and the mutual selection of the mediator. the narrowing of issues in dispute. Successful
via email at dhatem@donovanhatem.com.
The mediator has no authority to bind the negotiations are dependant on the parties
parties and merely facilitates resolution of understanding of the issues in dispute and Jordan S. Rattray is an associate in the
disputes through the exchange of informa- other factors which influence the ability to Professional Practices Group at Donovan
tion and settlement negotiations. The parties resolve the dispute together. Hatem LLP. Ms. Rattray can be reached via
to a mediation are bound by confidentiality, email at jrattray@donovanhatem.com.
and cannot use any of the information that
is shared through the mediation process
against the other party at any time (i.e.
at an arbitration hearing or trial).
Through mediation, the parties will
educate the mediator of their position.
Often, but not always, the parties will
exchange mediation statements or presen-
tations with each other. The mediator’s
communications with each side cannot

be shared with the other side. While most Model * Load * Analyze * Design * Report * Succeed!
mediations involve a one- or two-day
session which will or will not result in
a settlement, other mediation processes
can involve numerous informational
exchange sessions followed by negotia-
tion sessions
Less Formal Processes

There are also less formal methods of
resolving disputes which do not involve
the use of third-parties. Often contracts
will require, as a first step to resolving a
Aluminum Design
dispute, less formal negotiation or part- Great Looking Reports
nering sessions as a way to talk through
and resolve issues before a dispute arises. IBC 2009, ASCE 7-10
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discussing contentious issues with the

NOTEWORTHY news and information
Matthew Salveson Retires from STRUCTURE ® Editorial Board

On January 1, 2011, Matt Salveson, Ph.D., P.E. completed his tenure on the magazine to keep me abreast of critical issues in
STRUCTURE magazine Editorial Board. Dr. Salveson, a senior engineer professional practice. Thank you very much for
with Dokken Engineering and an Associate Professor with California State giving me the opportunity to serve.”
University in Sacramento, will be concentrating on his academic commit- SEI has appointed Brian Miller to succeed Matt
ments going forward. Jon Schmidt, Chair of the Editorial Board, had this as one of its three representatives on the Editorial
to say about Matt’s tenure, “Matt has been a real asset to the Editorial Board Board. Brian was a representative of AISC on
over the last four years. I am sorry to see him go, but wish him all the best the Board, but separated from AISC at the end
in his other endeavors.” of September. Mr. Miller will continue to work
Regarding his departure from the Board, Matt added, “I have genuinely with the Editorial Board on behalf of SEI. The
enjoyed my service on the Editorial Board. My colleagues on the Board are STRUCTURE magazine leadership continues to work towards filling the
among the best in the field and the magazine’s authors have always given me vacant steel industry seat.
fresh insight into professional structural engineering practice. As my own Please join us in thanking Matt Salveson for his service over the last four
career shifts towards academia, I will continue to rely on STRUCTURE years and wishing him well.
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award winners and outstanding projects Spotlight
The New DC: The Atrium at 300 New Jersey Avenue
By Azer Kehnemui, D. Sc., P.E., Hakan Onel P.E., S.E. and Rupa M. Patel
Smislova, Kehnemui and Associates, P.A. received an Outstanding Project Award for the 300 New
Jersey Avenue project in the 2010 NCSEA Annual Excellence in Structural Engineering awards
program (Category – New Buildings $10M to $30M)
V
eiled in the shadow of the U.S. hundred feet from cantilevered beams at the
Capitol, the atrium at 300 New top floor of the building. Steel cables extend
Jersey Avenue displays one of the from the top level of the structure to support
most contemporary integrations the hanging wall against vertical and lateral
of architectural vision and engineering cre- forces. Lateral movement is also restricted
ativity in Washington, DC. The expansive, by horizontal kipper trusses at each level,
full-height atrium was designed and con- and springs at the bottom of the wall and
structed as part of a new, 10-story concrete at the attachment to the existing building
office building and six-story below grade park- prevent loads from being transferred to the
ing garage. It is the first commercial office glazing system below the curtain wall and to
building to be designed and built in the the existing building.
United States by the world renowned archi- The boomerang truss, seemingly hovering
tectural firm, Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners over the length of the atrium, is offset from
(formerly the Richard Rogers Partnership), the supporting tree structure with tie-back
who collaborated with Smislova, Kehnemui rods that help support it at mid-span. The
and Associates, P.A. (SK&A), the structural truss has a tapered triangular section with
engineer of record and HKS Architects, the circular chord and web members. The depth sheave beams supported on a dedicated steel
project architect and architect of record, to of the truss tapers from eight feet to zero at cage system, which itself is supported on
create one of the most unique structures in the the ends. A noteworthy feature of the support atrium tree beams and the main truss at the
Washington, DC metropolitan area. Hakan system for the truss is the tension rods that top. The guide rails are laterally supported by
Onel, P.E., S.E., an associate at SK&A, led support it and its stair platforms. These tie slender steel forks attached to the tree beam
the structural design of the atrium and Tolga rods are pre-tensioned so that they remain members. The stair treads are Z-shaped bent
Cubukcu, now retired, was responsible for tensioned during all phases of construction plate sections that were specifically designed
the office building portion of the project. and provide initial camber to the steel truss. to provide lateral stiffness to the stair frame.
Azer Kehnemui, D.Sc., P.E., principal and The two steel lattice columns supporting the Steel bridges extend from the main atrium
co-founder of SK&A, served as the principal truss at each end are constructed of steel HSS tree structure, spanning each level between the
in charge of the entire project, leading both pipe sections in compression and pre-ten- two historic buildings and the new contem-
design teams and coordinating efforts between sioned cables with roller pins at each outrigger porary structure. The bridges are framed with
the engineers, architects, and owner. to allow for zero loss in pre-tensioning fric- stiff kink post truss structures with slender
The LEED GOLD certified 270,000 SF tion. Structural redundancy in the columns members and walking platforms composed
office building is constructed adjacent to an has been provided using double cables at each of multilayer laminated glass panels.
existing historic 1935 office building and of the three lines of cables around the main Residents and tourists alike are now witness
its 1953 addition. The atrium is the proj- pipe section. to a timeless vision of engineering and archi-
ect’s most notable feature and serves as the The skylight covering the atrium is com- tectural ingenuity that punctuates a sleepy
common convergence space between the posed of ladder frames that were assembled morning commute or casual stroll through
three buildings–blending past and present off-site and transported to the project site. The Capitol Hill. This part futuristic, part whim-
in a three-dimensional cascade of glass and frames are constructed of steel channels and sical atrium structure is a welcome contrast
steel. Linked by the canopy of a skylight and HSS tube steel sections that were field bolted to the stern, conservative personality of the
a full-height hanging glass facade in front, the together on-site to create the framework that traditional DC skyline, introducing a truly
buildings come together in a series of glass supports the glass panels of the skylight. spectacular integration of art and ability.▪
walkways and platforms that extend out from The atrium tree is the primary structural
the main “tree” structure in the center of the steel moment frame tower that supports the Azer Kehnemui, D. Sc., P.E., Consulting
space. Supporting the skylight is a complex, skylight, the boomerang truss, and the eleva- Structural Engineer, is Founding
bright yellow boomerang truss that extends tor shaft and platforms. The 18-inch diameter Principal of Smislova, Kehnemui &
the length of the atrium and is punctuated steel HSS round columns that make up the Associates, PA (SK&A).
at each end with two lattice columns that, at tree structure’s vertical members had to be
Hakan Onel P.E., S.E. is an Associate
first glance, appear to be sculptures placed for filled with concrete and designed as composite
of SK&A.
aesthetic appeal. columns in order to carry the high axial loads.
The luminous glass curtain wall at the The elevator support cage and transparent Rupa M. Patel is a project engineer at SK&A.
entrance of the atrium falls about one elevator shaft are constructed with elevator

NaTioNal CoUNCil of STRUCTURal ENgiNEERS aSSoCiaTioNS
2011 WiNTER iNSTiTUTE fEbRUaRy 25-26, 2011
Deferred Submittals:
News form the National Council of Structural Engineers Associations
What the EOR Needs

to Know and Show
from Design to Construction
Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort
Friday, February 25 8.0 Professional Development Hours

Deferred Submittals Gone Wrong
Introduction of topic and personal experiences. Ben Nelson, Martin/Martin, Inc., Lakewood, CO, Tom DiBlasi, DiBlasi Associates,
P.C., Monroe, CT, and Tom Grogan, Haskell, Jacksonville, FL.
Building Officials Have Their Say

Can SE’s get themselves into trouble by improperly dealing with deferred submittals? No question, according to these building
officials. Take this opportunity to gain a better understanding of the permitting process using deferred submissions. Ron Lynn,
Clark County, NV, and Jim Schock, Jacksonville, FL.
Non-Standard Steel Joists

What are the responsibilities of the project registered design professional and the joist manufacturer for non-standard steel
joists? What do you know about steel joist calculation submittals? Tim Holtermann, Canam Steel Corporation, Washington, MO.
Design Responsibility for Engineered Precast Systems

How do you divide design responsibilities when specifying precast concrete components and systems? Discussion will
include how best to convey necessary design information in the contract documents and how to deal with issues related
to precast concrete lateral load resisting systems, as well as approaches to avoid RFIs and design omissions. Tim Salmons,
Salmons, P.C., Albuquerque, NM.
Moderated tours of the Canam Steel Joist Facility

and the Gate Concrete Products Facility, Jacksonville, FL
Saturday, February 26 7.5 Professional Development Hours

NCSEA News
Specifying Wood and Cold-Formed Steel Trusses –

Avoiding Pitfalls and Unnecessary Liability
Pre-manufactured trusses: Who is responsible for what, when it comes to the SER, the truss industry, contractors, and the building
department? What are some of the pitfalls of specifying pre-manufactured trusses? Ed Huston, Smith and Huston, Inc., Seattle, WA.
Cold-Formed Steel Submittals – Expectations and Performance

of Structural and Specialty Engineers
While some cold formed steel (CFS) products require specialty engineering, others do not. What are the responsibilities of all
members of the construction team, particularly the Structural Engineer of Record and the Specialty Structural Engineer? Who
assumes liability for design? Steve Walker, Light Gauge Steel Engineering Group, Inc., Oakland, Florida.
Current Trends in Professional Liability & Risk Management

What are the duties and limitations when providing construction phase services? Which contract provisions are frequently the
subject of difficult negotiations? How can poorly worded provisions impact the design professional? Brian Hadar, Suncoast
Insurance, and Colleen Palmer, Beazley Insurance.

NCSEA News
Ron Lynn Jim Schock Tim Holtermann Tim Salmons Ed Huston Steve Walker
Lunch Presentation
Sponsored by Fyfe Company
How do you avoid deferred submittal problems when specifying
fiber reinforced polymer for the structural upgrade of concrete?
Scott Arnold, P.E.
Deferred Submittal Documentation –

What You Really Need to Show
Regarding Deferred Submittals Brian Hader Colleen Palmer C. Ben Nelson
Why is it important to clearly identify, in the contract documents,
what scope is covered by the EOR and what scope requires design by a specialty engineer?
How can you avoid unnecessary risks? C. Ben Nelson, Martin/Martin, Inc., Lakewood, CO.
Register at
News from the National Council of Structural Engineers Associations

Deferred Submittals – Panel Discussion of Lessons Learned www.ncsea.com
Problem prevention, pre-engineered metal buildings, incorrectly-prescribed foundations,
inordinate numbers of changes, and more.
Networking Opportunities: Accommodations:

Reception Thursday evening, February 24, 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort
Reception Friday evening, February 25, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Amelia Island, FL 32035
sponsored by the Florida Structural Engineers Association NCSEA Winter Institute rate until February 9: $149
Reservations: 1-888-261-6165
Cost and Registration: Group number: 022011NCSEAWINT or National
Council of Structural Engineers Associations
Breakfast, lunch, breaks and receptions included in price:
Free roundtrip airport transportation to/from Jacksonville
$350 per day, or $595 for both days
airport, provided you reserve 72 hours in advance.
January 25, 2011: Heavy Timber Connections: Mistakes and Lessons Learned – Ben Brungraber
February 10, 2011: Detailing of Unbonded Post-Tensioned Structures to Minimize the Effects
of Restraint to Shortening – Bryan Allred
March 1, 2011: Building Information Modeling in Structural Engineering Practice Today –
Upcoming David J. Odeh
NCSEA March 10, 2011: Post-Tensioned Slabs on Ground Design – Bryan Allred
Webinars: April 19, 2011: Code Issues in Existing Buildings: Archaic and Obsolete Structures –
Donald Friedman
May 17, 2011: AISC T.R. Higgins Lecture–The AISC Seismic Design Provisions:
Past, Present and Future – James O. Malley
NCSEA/Kaplan Structural Engineering Exam Review Course

Obtain two weekends (12 hours each) of targeted review, sitting in front of your computer, with 24/7 playback. Review
anytime. Instructors are knowledgeable, hand-picked and recommended by your peers:
January 29-30: Vertical Forces Review.
February 12-13: Lateral Forces Review.
Visit www.ncsea.com and follow the “Hot Topics” link for the NCSEA/Kaplan SE Exam Review Course, to register and
for more information on the course and the instructors.

Spring 2011 Fazlur R. Khan Distinguished Lecture Series
at Lehigh University
The Fazlur Rahman Khan Distinguished Lecture Series honors Dr. Fazlur Rahman Khan’s legacy of excellence in structural
engineering and architecture. Initiated and organized by: Dan M. Frangopol, Fazlur Rahman Khan Endowed Chair of Structural
Engineering and Architecture, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, ATLSS Center, Lehigh University.
The Newsletter of the Structural Engineering Institute of ASCE
1st Lecture: David Scott, Arup, America’s Building Practice Leader, Past Chairman, CTBUH, New York, NY
“Extreme Engineering” – Friday, February 18, 2011 – 4:10 pm
2nd Lecture: Masayoshi Nakashima, Kyoto University, Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto, and
E-Defense, National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Prevention, Kyoto, Japan
“Safeguarding Quality of Life: the Role of Large-Scale Testing” – Friday, March 25, 2011 – 4:10 pm
3rd Lecture: Chris D. Poland, Chairman & CEO, Degenkolb Engineers, San Francisco, CA
“Building Disaster Resilient Communities” – Friday, April 8, 2011 – 4:10 pm
For more information about the lecture series, see the Lehigh University website at www.lehigh.edu/frkseries.
Call for New Members Upcoming Conference

ASCE/SEI Athletic Field Lighting SEWC 2011 – April 4-6, 2011
Structures Standards Committee Villa Erba, Lake Como, Italy
The Structural Engineering Institute (SEI) of ASCE is seeking The Structural Engineers World Congress (SEWC) is an inter-
members for the newly forming Athletic Field Lighting Structures national conference with worldwide participation by structural
Standards Committee. The committee is developing a national engineers. The primary purpose of SEWC2011 is to focus on
consensus guideline for the proper specification, design, installa- the overall practice of structural engineering for both technical
tion, and on-going maintenance of athletic field, or other similar and theoretical aspects, including materials, actions, design,
large area lighting system support structures. Membership on construction, research and tests. The conference will address
SEI/ASCE standard committees is open to all those who might the practical needs of structural engineering world-wide, and
reasonably be expected to be or who indicate they are directly improve co-operation among persons who share the same
affected by the activity without dominance by any single inter- interests. For more information, see the conference website:
est group: Producer, Consumer and General Interest, including http://sewc-worldwide.org/index.php/sewc2011-italy.
Regulatory. Those interested in serving on the committee should
apply online at www.seinstitute.org/committees/codeform.cfm.
For more information, please contact Lee Kusek, ASCE Standards
Administrator, at lkusek@asce.org or 703-295-6176.
Structural Columns
Online Game is Part of

ASCEville’s Green Makeover www.asceville.org
Solar panels. Mixed use development. Permeable pavement. If you haven’t been to ASCEville lately you’re in for a surprise.
Visitors to ASCE’s kids Website will find these features and more on the new home page, which features new graphics, new video
content, and a fun, scavenger hunt game highlighting themes of sustainability. Kids, parents, teachers and, yes, even engineers
will love learning how civil engineers are making local communities more livable. See if you can find all 20 features and discover
how civil engineering contributes to healthier built and natural environments!
Teachers, especially, will find the site useful in supporting their lessons on sustainability topics. A FREE companion poster,
What makes ASCEville Greenville?, is available for classroom use. All 20 features of the scavenger hunt are visible on the poster.
The poster back also contains two classroom activities to jump start explorations of water management and recycling, and a
profile of a young engineer who is having a positive impact on the world through his work as a bike trails designer. To order the
poster, email outreach@asce.org. Write ASCEville goes GREEN in the subject line.
2012 SEI/ASCE Student Structural Design Competition

The Structural Engineering Institute of ASCE is sponsoring a structural design competition for
universities. Innovative projects demonstrating excellence in structural engineering are invited for
submission. Awards include cash prizes and an opportunity to present their designs at the 2012
SEI Structures Congress in Chicago, IL. Deadline for Submissions: June 30, 2011
For competition guidelines, entry form and a poster to promote the competition, visit
http://content.seinstitute.org/StudentStructuralDesignCompetition.html. The 2010 winning team from
Villanova University

Structural Columns
REgiSTRaTion iS opEn
for the 2011 Structures Congress
Green Valley Ranch Resort and Spa Las Vegas, Nevada
April 14-16, 2011
Register early to take advantage of reduced rates-see the SEI Website for
more details: www.SEInstitute.org
Earn more than 16 PDHs!

Structural Engineers from around the country will be gathering at the
Green Valley Ranch Resort in Las Vegas from April 14-16 for the 2011 SEI
Structures Congress to learn, share and network among friends and col-
leagues. Opening bright and early on Thursday, April 14th the Congress is
packed with 2½ days of technical sessions, committee meetings, fascinating
keynote and plenary speakers, concluding with a closing plenary technical
session after lunch on Saturday – an opportunity to earn more than 16
PDHs during one mega-event!
More than 100 different technical sessions on
such topics as:
• Seismic Strengthening of Buildings
• SEI/ASCE Chile Earthquake Assessment
Team Report
The Newsletter of the Structural Engineering Institute of ASCE

• New Provisions of ASCE 7-10
• Lateral Systems of Buildings
• How the Future of Structural Engineering
sees the Future of Structural Engineering
• Lessons Learned from Arbitration,
Mediation and Litigation
• Vulnerability Assessments of Bridges
and Tunnels
• and Masonry, Concrete, Steel, Wood, Blast,
Wind and much, much more!
Special events will include the opening plenary
speaker F. Dave Zanetell, P.E., PMP, the Federal
Highway Administration’s project manager of the
HOUSING Room Rates*:
brand new $240 million Hoover Dam Bypass
Green Valley Ranch Resort • Single: $135.00
Bridge. On Saturday, the plenary speaker will be
2300 Paseo Verde Parkway • Double: $135.00
Ron Lynn, the Director/Building Official for Clark
Henderson, NV 89052 • Triple: $165.00
County Department of Development Services
www.greenvalleyranchresort.com/ • Quad: $195.00
and immediate Past-President of ICC, who will
discuss some of the unique challenges of building
Reservations: 702-617-7777
in Las Vegas.
Toll free: 866-782-9487
You won’t want to miss the Grand Opening
When registering refer to ASCE Code: GCIASCE
Reception on Thursday and be certain to attend
Friday’s special Evening at the Hoover Dam
This magnificent Las Vegas hotel, resort and spa attends to its guests with
with exclusive tours, savory and appetizing hors’
unmatched special touches and an impeccable service philosophy. The elegant
d’oeuvres, and refreshments.
decor and hotel accommodations, world-class cuisine and lively entertain-
ment create an exciting experience for the senses. They have combined these
Errata standards and amenities with the grandeur of their grounds and facilities to
make GVR the choice in luxury hotels in Las Vegas.
SEI posts up-to-date errata information for our Reservation Cutoff Deadline: Friday, March 11, 2011
publications at www.SEInstitute.org. Click on
* The group rate has been extended for three (3) days before and three (3) days
“Publications” on our menu, and select “Errata.”
after the conference dates, on a space availability basis.
If you have any errata that you would like
to submit, please email it to Paul Sgambati at Visit the SEI Website for more information about Conference Registration
psgambati@asce.org. and housing: www.SEInstitute.org.

SAVE THE DATE! CASE Winter Planning Meeting Scheduled for February
The CASE Winter Planning Meeting will take place on As part of the Committees’ ongoing activities, face-to-face
Wednesday and Thursday, February 23-24, 2011, at the Amelia meetings and informal discussions are held twice a year to
Island Plantation, Florida in conjunction with the NCSEA explore current issues and work on projects like new and revised
Winter Institute. On Wednesday afternoon, the CASE Executive Risk Management Tools, Guidelines and Contracts, as well
Committee will meet and set the agenda for the next day’s com- as Publications and Risk Management Convocations. These
mittee planning sessions. The committee breakout meetings will meetings also allow the various CASE committees to interact
take place on Thursday for the National Guidelines, Contracts, across all of CASE’s activities. For more information on the
The Newsletter of the Council of American Structural Engineers
Programs & Communications, and Toolkit Committees to CASE committees and CASE in general, visit their website at
continue work on their respective assignments. www.acec.org/CASE.
CASE Risk Management Convocation

in Las Vegas Next Spring
The CASE Risk Management Convocation will be held in
conjunction with the Structures Congress at the Green Valley
Ranch Resort in Las Vegas, NV, April 14–16, 2011. For more
information and updates go to www.seinstitute.org.
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
The following CASE Convocation sessions are scheduled to New Tools for Managing Risk
take place on Friday, April 15: and Project Implementation
8:30 AM – 10:00 AM Speakers: Stacy Bartoletti, President and COO,
Degenkolb Engineers
How Structural Engineers Can Work Effectively Nils V. Ericson III, Project Manager,
with Architects Who Use AIA C401 The Di Salvo Ericson Group
John Aniol, Vice President, Thornton Tomasetti
Speaker: William Geisen, Esq., Brent White, President, ARW Engineers
Graydon Head & Ritchey LLP
The CASE Tool Kit Committee has developed a number of
If your firm works as a sub-consultant to architects, come
new tools that will be presented in this session. Developing
examine CASE’s Commentary on AIA Document C401, the
a Culture of Quality provides a white paper and PowerPoint
Standard Form of Agreement Between Architect and Consultant.
presentation used to engage firm leaders in a discussion about
AIA Contract Document C401 incorporates by reference AIA
their firm culture and key aspects that contribute to quality. A
Contract Document B101, the Standard Form of Agreement
new tool on staffing projections provides a method for firms
Between Owner and Architect. The interplay between C401 and
to project future revenues and staffing demands based on
B101 cannot be over-emphasized. Using C401 without under-
contract values and potential work. Project Work Plans set the
standing fully the interrelationships with B101 is a recipe for
stage early for project success and a new work plan template
disaster. This presentation will cover how the engineer’s rights
will be presented. Finally, a new tool titled Managing Computer
and obligations are impacted by these two agreements, and
Software Use will be presented. This tool provides a white paper
CASE’s recommended provisions to include in your contract
on key aspects and responsibilities of the project manager and
with the architect. Understanding and using B101 effectively
CASE in Point
principal in charge relative to software use on projects.

can give you more leverage in collecting fees, getting paid for
Additional Services and collecting more reimbursable expenses.
3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
10:30 AM – 12 Noon Lessons Learned from Arbitration,
The Changing Face of Indemnity: Mediation and Litigation
Meaner and Uglier! Speakers: John O. Woods, Jr., P.E., President,
Speaker: Brian Stewart, Esq., WOODS PEACOCK Engineering
Collins, Collins, Muir & Stewart Consultants, Inc.,
Bruce E. Titus, Esq., Principal Rees Broome, PC
This program will present an overview of some recent Charles Vonderheid CBIZ
California cases having received national attention, which
could present potentially disastrous results for the engineering This panel discussion will focus on applying lessons learned
community. The discussion will center on how and why the from the speakers’ involvement with arbitration, mediation
cases were decided the way they were, and what is being done and litigation. The speakers, who are a practicing structural
as a result of the holdings in those cases. The program will engineer & arbitrator, an attorney specializing in construction
conclude with a description of some legislative and practical law, and a professional liability insurance agent, will share
efforts to defend against this unfortunate tide. some of their own lessons learned and anecdotes.

CASE in Point
Looking for a few good people!
CASE is looking for a few good engineers who would like to devote their time to
improving the business practice experience of engineering firms. A brief description of
each committee is below; if you are interested in learning more, contact Heather Talbert,
htalbert@acec.org or 202-682-4377.
Programs and Communications Committee – Responsible Contracts Committee – Responsible for developing and
for the planning and organizing all CASE education sessions maintaining all CASE contracts to assist practicing engineers
at the SEI Structures Congress, ACEC Fall Conference, plus with risk management.
CASE planning meeting locations. This committee also keeps Guidelines Committee – Responsible for developing and main-
the editorial calendar of CASE articles for both STRUCTURE taining national guidelines of practice for structural engineers.
magazine and Structural Design magazine. Toolkit Committee – Responsible for developing and main-
taining all risk management tools.
ACEC Education Information

2011 ACEC Convention Offers Political Expanding Sustainability Markets
Insights, Business Opportunities and Methods
CASE is a part of the American Council of Engineering Companies

Leaders of the new Congress, noted jour- A faculty of leading practitioners and A/E industry experts
nalist Bob Woodward and procurement with diverse perspectives presents an in-depth exploration of
officials from more than a dozen federal the expanding markets for sustainable design and construc-
agencies will highlight the 2011 Annual tion in ACEC’s first course of 2011: Green Infrastructure and
Convention and Legislative Summit, Sustainable Communities: Opportunities in Expanding Markets,
March 30-April 2, in Washington, D.C. set for February 1-4, San Antonio, TX.
Incoming Speaker of the House Course curriculum examines key environmental planning and
John Boehner (invited), new House design processes, and showcases applications of sustainable engi-
Transportation and Infrastructure Investigative Journalist neering. A special San Antonio-area field trip visits real world
Committee Chairman John Mica Bob Woodward will sustainable projects. Topics to be covered include • Sustainability
(invited), and former U.S. Representative provide an “Insider as Business Strategy • The Business Case for Delivering Sustainable
Tom Davis will brief attendees on the View of the Presidency.” Projects • Current Techniques and Innovation in Sustainable
dynamics of the new Congress and what they mean for the Design • Infrastructure Project Rating Systems • Application
engineering industry. of BIM Software in Sustainability • Sustainable Urban Water
Attendees will also get the inside track on new market opportu- Management, Transportation and Buildings Projects.
nities with federal agencies including GSA, the U.S. Army Corps Get agenda highlights, browse the course brochure, and register
of Engineers, Department of Energy, and Homeland Security. at advance best-price:
www.acec.org/education/eventDetails.cfm?eventID=1232.
ACEC Government Affairs

Congress Continues ACEC-Backed
ACEC Urges Senate to Approve Effort to Repeal 1099 Filing Mandate
9/11 Liability Reform Bill Senate attempts to repeal a new federal IRS Form 1099
filing mandate fell short in November 2010, but supporters in
ACEC and major contractor organizations are lobbying Senate Congress vow to continue the repeal effort.
leaders to act on key 9/11 liability reform legislation. Under the new law, which takes effect in 2012, business pur-
H.R. 847, which passed the House in September, provides chases of goods and services valued at more than $600 annually
liability relief for engineering firms and contractors involved from any vendor must be reported to the IRS.
in the response and cleanup of the Ground Zero site following Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT) has
the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center. announced his intent to repeal the mandate. His repeal amend-
A settlement accepted by more than 95 percent of Ground ment, as well as similar legislation offered by Senator Mike Johanns
Zero first responders requires that they drop their lawsuits. The (R-NE), faltered over differences in how to pay for the repeal.
passage of H.R. 847 by the Senate would help in resolving the ACEC and coalition allies will continue working with Baucus and
remaining lawsuits. other lawmakers to include a repeal provision in other legislation.

Structural Forum opinions on topics of current importance to structural engineers
For the Love of the Profession

By Robert H. Lyon, P.E.
S
tructural engineers consistently rank have responsibility for planning, designing The combination made for a tremendously
high in levels of job satisfaction and and constructing the Metrorail system. My invigorating, exciting work place! I also met
public respect. Through the experi- dad saw this as an opportunity of a lifetime and married the travel agent that handled
ences and testimonies of practicing and moved our family from Chicago to DC the firm’s business… but that is a story for
engineers, both past and present, this series of halfway through my kindergarten year. another time.
articles celebrates the joys and satisfactions of Growing up, I enjoyed learning – not just math Although the professional road has been
our profession. From this collection of personal and the sciences, but in all areas. After complet- winding, and at times rocky, 31 years later my
accounts, sources of career satisfaction are identi- ing high school, I enrolled at the University of firm remains the same kind of place. When
fied and examined. Obstacles are also identified Virginia as a student of Civil Engineering. In an opportunity came for my family to serve as
which can impede our level of job satisfaction. retrospect, I am sure that my choice of major missionaries in Russia, my supervisors granted
These observations are used to formulate keys for stemmed first and foremost from my admiration me a year’s leave of absence with their bless-
improving, advancing and uplifting the struc- for my dad and his colleagues. ing. Several years later, when an unexpected
tural engineering profession and its personal Upon graduation, I half-heartedly inter- victory landed me in the state legislature, my
rewards. Whether an idealistic young profes- viewed with one or two engineering firms firm once again allowed me a series of leaves of
sional, or an experienced engineer in need of but decided that school was still too much absence to serve my term. Although the politi-
a career re-charge, reclaim the pleasures that fun! So I enrolled to study law at The George cal experience was interesting, I chose not to
make structural engineering a great profession! Washington University. One month before seek reelection, primarily because I missed the
classes were to start, while browsing the uni- structural engineering environment.
versity bookstore, I abruptly changed my Having served as a part-time adjunct pro-
Part One – My Story plans and decided to pursue a master’s degree fessor for a number of years, I have recently
My father was a structural engineer. My in structural engineering instead. These were transitioned to a full-time teaching position at
grandfather was a public works engineer. two wonderfully interesting, satisfying and the University of Kansas. Once again, I enjoy
In several small towns of Iowa you can find fun years. the company of numerous distinguished, pro-
plaques on bridges that bear Granddad’s With a master’s, I was much better prepared fessional colleagues, and I continue to work
name, Harold Lyon. Engineering is a Lyon for a practicing bridge engineering position. part-time with the firm where I started my
family tradition. It is in my blood. Once again my dad came into the picture, career. I do not know what the future holds
As a child, I loved visiting my dad’s office. advising that I interview with a consulting for me professionally. I only hope that it will
What impacted me the most was not necessarily firm that he held in high esteem. He arranged be possible for me to continue doing exactly
my fascination with the projects. More than for an interview with the office leader and, what I am doing, because this is a great pro-
that, I relished the work environment and the although the Washington office was not fession and I love it.
camaraderie of professionals. hiring, he suggested that a young fellow want- The point of this autobiography is to suggest
My dad served alongside my granddad in ing to learn the bridge business should go and that nothing is terribly unique about my pro-
World War II with a Seabees unit in the South interview at the home office in Kansas City. fessional experience. Every structural engineer
Pacific. The Seabee motto shows them to be I was not excited. Although I did not object has a story to tell, and such accounts can serve
the consummate engineers: “The difficult we strongly to the idea, I had not envisioned as a basis for identifying and fostering the
do immediately; the impossible takes a little moving halfway across the country for a job. tremendous sources of career satisfaction that
longer”. When he returned to civilian life, Dad However, this was a friend of my dad’s, and are ours as structural engineers. In my case, it
enrolled at Iowa State University and received I felt an obligation to consider it. I agreed begins with being in a profession with men
his bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. He to interview. and women that I respect, admire and enjoy.
then worked two years designing bridges for I lugged my heavy suitcase through Kansas In my next article, I will explore the lives of
the Iowa Highway Department. One day, he City that morning, wondering why I was other, more notable structural engineers, and
and a colleague took time off work and went there. But when I arrived in the firm’s bridge discover what sources of joy undergirded their
up to Chicago to “pound the pavement” in department, it was a “déjà vu” moment. I professional careers.▪
hopes of landing a consulting job. tingled with childhood memories of my
Dad joined the firm DeLeuw Cather and dad’s office. The competence, professional-
Robert H. Lyon, P.E. (blyon@ku.edu), is
spent his first ten years there designing and ism, collegiality and warmth in that office
a lecturer in the Civil, Environmental and
managing various bridge and highway proj- convinced me that this was where I wanted
Architectural Engineering Department at the
ects. While working on a major highway to spend my career. It had a wonderful mix
University of Kansas and a structural engineer
project in the Washington, D.C. area, the of thirty-year design professionals, along with
at HNTB in Kansas City, Missouri.
organization was being formed that would a large group of talented, recent graduates.
Structural Forum is intended to stimulate thoughtful dialogue and debate among structural engineers and other participants in the design and
construction process. Any opinions expressed in Structural Forum are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of NCSEA,
®
CASE, SEI, C 3 Ink, or the STRUCTURE magazine Editorial Board.

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January 2011 Concrete

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