Print this page Unconventional Construction Methods
Ruben A. Gomez, P.E.
Course Outline
Concrete is one of the best known and most widely used construction materials, however, it is too heavy and has a propensity to crack where you least wanted it. Available solutions for those two problems are part of this course, additionally, we have included the description of two innovative ideas which have to do with the applicability of synchronized lifting.
This course includes a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding of the course materials.
Learning Objective
Upon completion of this course, the reader will derive the following benefits:
- Will learn how to minimize cracking in concrete;
- What to do to reduce concrete weight as needed;
- A singular idea of how to reduce risks in crane lifting;
- How to raise the roof in outdated buildings;
- Design tips for the design of flat plates; and
- How to conveniently pour all floor and roof slabs at ground level.
Intended Audience
The material presented is intended for the use and interest of engineers and building contractors.
Benefit for Attendee
Attendees of this course will learn about unconventional ideas and solutions that are not readily available from most common sources.
Course Introduction
It is regrettable that our present economic slump is a poor environment to promote new ideas; however, we need to see the problem from a factual and realistic point of view, as the construction industry has always been slow to react to the fluctuations of the market and the economic trend changes. Therefore, we must get ready in anticipation of the change for the better which is quite likely ahead of us.
Course Content
The course content is contained in the following PDF file:
Unconventional Construction Methods
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Course Summary
This course can be summarized by its self-explanatory contents, as it covers five topics of interest for those directly or indirectly involved in the construction industry. First, how to counteract the apparent spontaneous tendency of concrete to crack. Second, how to reduce concrete weight when needed for practical purposes. Third, how to raise the roof of obsolete buildings to meet modern merchandising needs. Fourth, practical recommendations of how to prevent some accidents in hi-rise buildings. And fifth, how to conveniently cast all floors and roof slabs at ground level.
Related Links and References
For additional related technical information on this subject we recommend the latest edition of:
Recommendations issued by the ACI Committee 223 on Expansive Cements.
Description Sheet: U. S. Patent #4,002,483.
Quiz
Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.
DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.
