Stffened slabs adequate for uplift?

[zlr219]

We are considering using a ribbed mat slab for a Pre-engineered metal building. I don't have the loads, but would expect about 10 kips net uplift at approximately 25 foot bay spacing. Does the PTI/WRI methods account for this type of loading? I feel that piers are in order, but the contractor wants to save, save, save.

 

[Ron]

Generally, as long as the slab has enough reinforcing to hold together, it can be counted for uplift resistance in the overturning moment check. When you are considering uplift resistance at the slab level, you're not concerned about the condition of the slab after such resistance...you just don't want the structure to overturn.

 

[jhoulette]

How would a pre-engineered metal building be any different than other buildings? Same principals are there, maybe some buildings have more bearing walls in lieu of columns, but the uplift concentrations are still there.

I guess PEMB might be lighter than the typical building...

Jim Houlette PE
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