Does anyone know what the standard governing load factors are for concrete bridge slabs designed with AASHTO LRFD? I have read that it is 1.3DL + 2.17LL and I have also seen 1.25DL + 1.75LL listed. And I have even seen 1.3DL + 1.3LL. Which of these is the latest governing load case in the...
Is there any way to analyze an unreinforced CMU wall using strength design instead of allowable stress design? If you do use strength design, it is my thoughts that the you may use masonry tensile strain and strength in calculating the balance failure point on the interaction. I have not...
The carbon fiber option is ideal for this application - for one, there is no need for drilling into the stems and chancing contact with the tendons. Never drill into pt or prestressed if you don't have to - you never know where a tendon would be, even if you think it makes no sense for tendons...
I would strongly consider FRP - the first structural uses of FRP were seismic upgrades on brick walls in Europe. You may be surprised how effective FRP strips will be on a CMU wall - in terms of strength with relatively low material quantity. I would contact Fyfe Company (858-642-0694) - they...
One of our biggest problems as structural engineers is that we try to save on items that do not greatly affect cost ... such as rebar. Weigh the constructability issues, not so much the design or material quantity issues. Designing top bars as continuous will negate many possible field...
In response to the previous email about bonding agents, remember that using CFRP in this instance (axial load capacity increase) is not "bond critical" - it is strictly for confinement and as long as the CFRP layers are lapped sufficiently, this fix will be effective regardless of bond to the...
