Concrete Design and Technology

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2016:

200 hours

Admission to the 746ST Master of Engineering Structures OR

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

AIMS

This subject introduces the students to advanced modelling techniques for concrete structures, and to the design and analysis of pre-stressed concrete structures with applications to both buildings and bridges. It builds on knowledge from CVEN90049 Structural Theory and Design 2, in particular the section on the fundamental behaviour of reinforced concrete structural elements when subjected to flexure, axial load and shear. Students will be introduced to strut-and-tie modelling which is used in the analysis and design of complex regions in concrete elements where simple flexural behaviour is disrupted, and also to deformation modelling for reinforced concrete elements which highlights the importance of ductility in these elements. This subject will also introduce advanced concrete technology with discussion of high strength concrete, deterioration mechanisms and the design for durable concrete structures. Students who complete this specialist subject are likely to find employment in design consultancy or concrete construction companies and work under the supervision of a senior engineer.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Partially prestressed concrete beams: Properties of prestressing steel and types of prestressing systems; Sectional behaviour at service load level, equivalent load concept and load balancing; Creep and shrinkage in concrete; Estimation of prestress losses, deflection and amount of cracking; Indeterminate structures; Anchorages; Applications to building and bridge construction; Applications to precast concrete structures; Deformation modelling; Strut-and-tie modelling; High strength concrete; Design against physical and chemical attack of concrete structures.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILO)

On completion of this subject the student is expected to:

1. Use advanced deformation modelling techniques and tools for modelling concrete structures
2. Use strut and tie design methodology to design non-flexural members such as deep beams
3. Describe the technology related to high strength concrete and demonstrate awareness of the important factors affecting its performance in practical applications
4. Design against physical and chemical attack of concrete structures
5. Describe the behaviour of partially pre-stressed concrete beams, and analyse and design these structures. The implementation of measures to improve environmental sustainability will be discussed in relation to design
6. Describe the use of precast concrete, its advantages and aspects related to its design application.

• One assignment (10%) students will work in a team of 2/4 students on a prestressed concrete laboratory exercise. Approximately 2000 words, each member committing to approximately 10-13 hours of work, due approximately week 5. Intended Learning Outcome (ILO) 5 is addressed in this assignment
• One 50 minute test (and an associated laboratory class) (10%) held approximately week 8. ILO 4 is addressed in this test
• One individual assignment (10%) approximately 1000 words, a time commitment of approximately 10-13 hours work, due approximately week 11. ILO 1 is addressed in this assignment
• One 3-hour written, closed book examination (70%) end of semester. ILOs 1 to 6 are addressed in this examination
  
  Hurdle Requirement: A pass in the end of semester examination is required to pass the subject.

Foster, S., Warner, R. and Faulkes, K. (2013) Prestressed Concrete, 3rd Edition. Pearson.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

• Ability to apply knowledge of science and engineering fundamentals
• Ability to undertake design problem identification, formulation, and solution
• Capacity for creativity and innovation
• Proficiency in engineering design
• Understanding of professional and ethical responsibilities, and commitment to them
• Capacity for lifelong learning and professional development.

LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS

Lectures, with examples, are used to convey basic information and concepts. Lectures are supplemented with tutorial problems, a virtual laboratory class, and several assignments (one of which includes a hands-on concrete technology laboratory class), all of which reinforce the student’s understanding of the core material. Concept design workshops are given in conjunction with experienced bridge and building design consultants from industry; they give the students the opportunity to test their acquired skills.

INDICATIVE KEY LEARNING RESOURCES

Recommended texts:
Foster, S, Warner, R. and Faulkes, K (2013) Prestressed Concrete, 3rd Edition. Pearson
Design Standard: Standards Australia, Concrete Structures, AS3600-2009.

CAREERS / INDUSTRY LINKS

Three concept design exercises are given in conjunction with experienced structural design consultants from industry.