Output details
14 - Civil and Construction Engineering
Imperial College London
Blinding struts, Part 2: Towards a simplified design method
No rigorous design method previously existed for blinding struts which Mott MacDonald have used empirically to achieve significant economies on major infrastructure projects. Design of blinding struts is complex since axial resistance depends on many uncertain factors including imperfection geometry, loading duration, concrete properties and ground heave. Novel analytical model is presented allowing for the first time the relative importance of these factors to be assessed, enabling designers to rationally determine minimum required slab thicknesses for prescribed geometrical imperfections. Research confirms blinding struts have considerable axial resistance and provides scientific basis for engineers to justify their use to clients (Alan.Powderham@mottmac.com).
