Brittle Element Factor - Concrete Anchors

[fredPE]

I was just looking for some general opinions on the Brittle Element factor in the 2006 IBC . . . Section 1908.1.16. Here they say that if you don't have a ductile steel failure in your anchorage, you have to multiply your design loads by 2.5. Between Omega Loads on drag connections, the 0.75 factor for seismic loads, cracked concrete and its effects, and the alpha factor on bond strength of epoxy anchors, this extra 2.5 factor just blows up your general connections. For instance, if you want to use epoxy or expansion anchors to anchor a concrete tilt-up panel to a roof, the numbers just do not work. I am in a retrofit situation, so I can't very well reinforce the wall for the anchorage, and the equations just can't work. Just seeing if anybody else has any great ideas on all of these compounding factors.

 

[sandman21]

Are you draging load from anywhere? Or are you just anchoring the panel to the roof? If you are just anchoring it, there is no need for omega, if you are draging loads into the wall, then sadly you are hosed. Maybe a sketch of what you have can help.