Construction Joints

[Parrapit]

When a code says Construction joints to be kept to a min how many would that be. How would one specify a good (strength integrity) construction joint in a beam e.g. Vertical joint, Horizontal joint, in middle of beam, rouged texture, concrete mix ratio ex.

 

[msquared48]

That is dependent on a few things, soome of which are out of your control. But you should be kept in theloop here, which sometimes does not take place.

Placement of construction joints has to do with pour sequencing, the capacity of the batch plant, the capacity of the construction and finishing crew, the weather, the engineer, the contractor, etc., etc., etc.

The idea is to just minimize the impact on the continuity of the structure. Can't set a number to this as projects vary in size and scope too.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

http://mmcengineering.tripod.com

 

[bridgebuster]

"Construction joints shall be kept to a minimum" : Ambiguity, that's what the contractor's lawyer likes to read.Zero is a minimum.

Mike makes good points. You should add a mote stating that construction joints other than those shown on the plans will not be permitted without the approval of the engineer. Also, state locations, if any, where you will not permit a CJ.

On occasion, I'll call out an "optional" construction joint in the plans, with a note that alternate location(s) can be requested subject to approval. This is usually when I have a long, tall abutment or wall.