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INSTRUCTORS:
Kent Sasaki, S.E.
Hayley Proctor, S.E.
Kaat Ceder, P.E.
Tim Kern, P.E.
Gorkem Okudan, Ph.D.
Daniel Wojnowski, Ph.D., P.E.
Travis G. Ebisch, M.S., P.E.
Ravi Mullapudi, Ph.D., P.E., S.E., RBEC
Course Length: 1.5 hour
These presentations were recorded at the 2024 Forensic Engineering Congress.
Purpose and Background
Brittle Cracking of HSS Tube Steel (29 minutes)
This presentation discusses the investigation of cracking in Hollow Structural Section (HSS) tube steel elements in a multi-story steel building. It focuses on understanding the causes of cracking, particularly strain age embrittlement, and compares A500 and A1085 steel standards to identify deficiencies in material specifications. The cracking was discovered in HSS elements used in elevator and stair towers during construction. The cracks were primarily at beveled ends and were linked to strain age embrittlement due to material properties and fabrication processes. Testing and metallurgical analysis revealed discrepancies in chemical composition and highlighted the need for stricter specifications and testing protocols. The presentation analyzed the root causes of brittle cracking in HSS tube steel and recommended material and quality control measures to prevent such issues in future construction projects.
Forensic Analysis of High-Strength Steel Boom Failure in a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (14 minutes)
This presentation explores the investigation of column failures in a 43-story high-rise building during construction, which posed significant structural risks. The forensic analysis identifies low-strength concrete in key columns due to improper use of lubricating grout during pumping operations. Comprehensive testing, including core sampling and ultrasonic pulse velocity, revealed widespread material deficiencies. The presentation outlines an emergency response involving extensive shoring and the implementation of full-height composite column jackets to restore structural integrity. The learners will learn the importance of rigorous inspection protocols, material quality control, and proactive design solutions to mitigate potential catastrophic failures.
Walking on Water: The Adverse Effects of Moisture on Flooring (22 minutes)
This presentation explores moisture-related distress in wood flooring systems, particularly in high-end residential settings. It covers common manifestations like cupping, buckling, and shrinkage and identifies potential moisture sources such as slab moisture, plumbing leaks, and HVAC inefficiencies. The case study focuses on a large North Texas residence experiencing repetitive flooring distress. Investigations revealed that HVAC inefficiencies and poor air circulation were the primary causes, emphasizing the importance of proper system design and maintenance in preventing such issues. The learners will learn the importance of identifying and mitigating moisture sources to maintain the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of wood flooring systems.
Assessment of Water Damage Effects on Wood Components: Impacts and Considerations (21 minutes)
This presentation examines the effects of water damage on wood components, including strength reduction, fungal growth, and connection failures. It highlights assessment methods and mitigation strategies to address water damage effectively. Water exposure can significantly weaken wood by reducing its compressive and bending strength, leading to long-term issues like fungal growth and adhesion failures. Case studies and testing methods, such as moisture content analysis and visual inspections, are used to evaluate damage and recommend appropriate repairs. The presentation provides insights into assessing and mitigating water damage in wood structures, ensuring long-term safety and performance.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of these sessions, you will be able to:
- Identify the causes and contributing factors of steel and water damage in construction projects, including material properties and environmental conditions.
- Explain the mechanisms of cracking in steel structures, such as strain-age embrittlement and other metallurgical phenomena.
- Describe the investigative process for assessing structural failures, including visual inspections, material testing, and analysis of design specifications.
- Discuss the implications of inadequate material standards and construction practices on structural integrity and project outcomes.
- List potential mitigation strategies to prevent or address steel cracking and water damage, including the adoption of improved material specifications and quality control measures.
Assessment of Learning Outcomes
Learning outcomes are assessed and achieved through passing a 10 multiple choice question post-test with at least a 70%.
Who Should Attend?
- Architects
- Construction Engineers
- Forensic engineers
- Geotechnical engineers
- Structural engineers
- Transportation engineers
How to Earn your PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion
This course is worth 1.5 PDHs. To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short on-line post-test and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 365 days of the course purchase.
How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?
1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]