AASHTO Type I Beam
AASHTO Type I Beam
(OP)
I have a project that we are considering using the Type I beams, but it seems like the local precasters can't find the forms anymore. It's not common to use this beam but we have a special circumstance.
Wouldn't the precasters still be able to do the beam even if it was 3-5x more expensive than a regular beam? I would think they do custom shapes on a somewhat regular basis.
Wouldn't the precasters still be able to do the beam even if it was 3-5x more expensive than a regular beam? I would think they do custom shapes on a somewhat regular basis.
RE: AASHTO Type I Beam
As you noted, the Type I beam is going the way of the dinosaur. 3 years ago I was working on a design-build project - 1 mile of structure, all precast - precasters were promoting NEXT beams and bulb tees not AASHTO beams, even for the long spans.
RE: AASHTO Type I Beam
RE: AASHTO Type I Beam
The type F look like they could be a disaster from the construction engineering standpoint, unless you aren't planning on having the contractor run the finisher at the edge of deck.
What forms do the precasters local to you have?
RE: AASHTO Type I Beam
Overall it usually boils down to how busy we are and how much shop space/time it takes to make a custom form. Your local precaster can likely work this into their schedule if you have a longer deadline; but if they're busy and you need it right away expect to pay out the nose or go to a non-local precaster.
Professional and Structural Engineer (ME, NH, MA)
American Concrete Industries
www.americanconcrete.com
RE: AASHTO Type I Beam