U2 Const Tech - Framed Structures

Question 1

Describe the four type of framed structures used in single and multi-storey construction?

Answer 1

Reinforced concrete
Steel frames
Precast concrete frames
Advanced timber frames

Question 2

What are the basic criteria for the selection and design of frames? (5)

Answer 2

Dimensions
Loads
Deflection
Costs
Availability

Question 3

What are the advantages and disadvantages of reinforced concrete construction?

Answer 3

Advantages
Cheap materials
Off site manufacturing/early start
Complex/irregular shapes possible
Late design changes possible
Fire resistance
Little maintenance

Disadvantages
Labour intensive
Site based plant requirements
Slow construction
High risk of error
Quality Control
Weather sensitivity
Shrinkage

Question 4

What are the advantages and disadvantages of steel frames?

Answer 4

Materials - expensive, lightweight
Manufacturing requirements
Lead times - could be long
Design flexibility
Large components - difficulty transport
Site works - erection fast
Good quality control possible
Fire resistance - requires protection
Durability - requires protection
Structural performance
Sustainability

Question 5

What are the pros/cons precast frame construction?

Answer 5

Basic materials are cheap
Manufacturing offsite requirements
Lead times
Design flexibility
Large components - limitations
Site works required
Quality - higher quality
Fire resistance
Durable
Good sound insulation
Sound insulation

Question 6

Pros/cons of timber frames

Answer 6

MATERIALS
Raw materials easily available
MANUFACTURING
Beam/glulam require factory facilities
LEAD TIMES
May be temporary shortages
DESIGN FLEXIBILITY
Cannot be used in tension
LARGE COMPONENTS
Long timbers difficult to obtain, glulam for long members.
SITE WORKS
Possible damage
QUALITY
Structural timber beautiful.
FIRE RESISTANCE
DURABILITY
STRUCTURAL PERFORMANCE
Good strength capabilities.
SUSTAINABILITY