Snow Load Reduction due to Grating
Snow Load Reduction due to Grating
(OP)
All,
I've recently read this thread http://www.eng-tips.com/viewthread.cfm?qid=291105 about snow loading and grating and there does seem to be a mixed opinion on it.
I'm currently desiging a frame system to support a MUA unit for a soccer field. The platform is to be 16'-6" x 27'6" x 8'-0" high and placed against a much higher structure. Through some very quick snow drift calculations the inside edge would accumulate a snow load of approximately 80psf and the outside edge to be quick significant as well as it would drift against the MUA unit.
My question is weather I should account for this or not or have a reduction factor at least for the snow load.
My factored weight of the unit is 55psf assuming 10psf dead load for the structure.
Now I'm questioning for my live/snow load if I should calculate 1.5 * 20 psf Live + 0.5 * Snow Drift Loading or can eliminate altogether.
Any opinions would help.
I've recently read this thread http://www.eng-tips.com/viewthread.cfm?qid=291105 about snow loading and grating and there does seem to be a mixed opinion on it.
I'm currently desiging a frame system to support a MUA unit for a soccer field. The platform is to be 16'-6" x 27'6" x 8'-0" high and placed against a much higher structure. Through some very quick snow drift calculations the inside edge would accumulate a snow load of approximately 80psf and the outside edge to be quick significant as well as it would drift against the MUA unit.
My question is weather I should account for this or not or have a reduction factor at least for the snow load.
My factored weight of the unit is 55psf assuming 10psf dead load for the structure.
Now I'm questioning for my live/snow load if I should calculate 1.5 * 20 psf Live + 0.5 * Snow Drift Loading or can eliminate altogether.
Any opinions would help.






RE: Snow Load Reduction due to Grating
RE: Snow Load Reduction due to Grating
Is there any heat coming up from the grated area, like a transformer vault?
Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)
RE: Snow Load Reduction due to Grating
The only heat that may occur is heat loss from the Make Up Air Unit.
RE: Snow Load Reduction due to Grating
RE: Snow Load Reduction due to Grating
Thanks for the Help!
RE: Snow Load Reduction due to Grating
But maximum wind will probably not occur at the same time as shoveling.
RE: Snow Load Reduction due to Grating
RE: Snow Load Reduction due to Grating
the authors state in reference to snow on grating that "balanced snow will accumulate on this surface just as it would on a checkered plate or any other continuous flooring material". They further state that snow drift should be considered.
I've also seen snow accumulate on grating as if it were a solid surface.
RE: Snow Load Reduction due to Grating
Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)