Precast Concrete Blocks versus Reinforced Concrete Slab
Precast Concrete Blocks versus Reinforced Concrete Slab
(OP)
I have designed an electrical equipment concrete pad consisting of reinforce concrete- see attachment (slab is on top of page). The client has asked for a design alternative consisting of a series of precast concrete blocks bearing over compacted stone-see attachment. They said that they have seen this done in another project, the details of which I do not have. My concerns are two folds: The first one is over turning due to wind. What sort of uplift can I expect obtain from a 16"x8"x4" concrete block? The second concern is related to the seismic coded compliance. Does this alternative meet the IBC seismic code requirements? I have looked on the IBC2009 book for anything that might hint noncompliance but have not found any. This precast block foundation system seems logically "flimsy". In an event of an earthquake wouldn't the unattached precast blocks slide and become unstable? How can I convince the client not to go this route? Or maybe this alternative design is fine and I am overly cautious. What are your thoughts?
best,
vvs
best,
vvs





RE: Precast Concrete Blocks versus Reinforced Concrete Slab
Maybe this thread will e of some use.
http://www.eng-tips.com/viewthread.cfm?qid=352793
RE: Precast Concrete Blocks versus Reinforced Concrete Slab
RE: Precast Concrete Blocks versus Reinforced Concrete Slab
RE: Precast Concrete Blocks versus Reinforced Concrete Slab
thank you for the link. It has been very helpful and informative and addresses many of the concerns that I may have.
cvg,
I agree the slab may be seem overkill. It was not designed by me but rather it was an off-the-shelf design submitted by a colleague who's no longer with the firm. I was asked to pick up the project after his leave. This could be the reason our client came back with requests for the alternative design.
RE: Precast Concrete Blocks versus Reinforced Concrete Slab