Expansion Joints for Concrete and Steel Structures 2

[canstruct]

Hi Guys,

What is the maximum limit of building dimension related to expansion joints for steel and concrete structures.I think in anycase structure should ideally be checked how much it expands or contract for any material type. There should be some rule of thumb also for countries having more severe weather. And also if somebody have a refernce if particularly for Canada is much appreciated.

 

[twinnell]

For steel, see AISC 13th ed. page 2-31 and 2-32. Concrete....don't know. We would usually put expansion joints where changes in building direction occured. Didn't add them for length issues.

 

[civilperson]

Unrestrained building dimension of less than 275 feet does not need expansion joints.

 

[csd72]

In Australia we generally used a rule of thumb of 50 to 100m (depending on the sensitivity) but this was mainly for concrete shrinkage and pour size.

In Canada the temperature range will be higher than most places in Australia.

check out:

http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=9801

http://www.modernsteel.com/Uploads/Issues/April_2005/30740_fisher.pdf

csd