海角视频

Forensic engineering approach to slab defects

UK-wide

海角视频 was engaged to provide forensic engineering, combining technical expertise with investigative techniques to identify the underlying causes of failures in structures, systems, or components.

We were engaged by a client to instigate peer reviews on all its projects to provide a health check of the design at key stages. These checks are undertaken to identify any obvious issues, risk and opportunities in the plans to allow for these issues to be addressed in collaboration with the original design team. This provides the client with the reassurance that the design is being progressed appropriately and helps with the approvals of the warranty provider.

海角视频鈥檚 forensic engineering team draws on expertise from across a range of disciplines including structural engineering, facades, fire engineering, ground, geotechnical and civil engineering.

One of the key considerations focused on potential slab defects. Reinforced concrete (RC) flat slab construction is one of the most common building construction forms, especially in residential buildings. A fundamental requirement is to resist 鈥減unching shear鈥�, a failure involving columns punching through the floor slab and risking a collapse.

The standard assessment methods normally employed by engineering consultants are often rudimentary, based on limited test geometries and can provide inaccurate results.

When applied conservatively, they can lead to an inefficient structure with spare load capacity, but when used incorrectly, these rudimentary calculations can lead to significant structural defects.

Using the latest digital modelling techniques, we accurately simulate the realistic capacity of RC slabs. Together with specialist consultants ASDEA, 海角视频鈥檚 forensic engineering team is utilising advanced non-linear analysis to provide accurate results, highlighting where mitigation is required and not required, and in turn, helping to avoid unnecessary costly strengthening works.