Joe Bunkers from Gage Brothers discusses UHPC benefits, collaboration in structural engineering design, cost considerations, and sustainability. They explore innovative uses of precast concrete like architectural cladding and fire caps for underground parking.
Collaborative process between precast manufacturers, architects, and structural engineers enhances building design efficiency.
Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) offers higher strength and durability, revolutionizing construction practices.
Deep dives
Introduction to Structural Engineering Podcast
Structural Engineering podcast hosts Zach and Max delve into unraveling the intricacies of architectural marvels. Through insightful interviews with industry leaders, they explore the science behind skyscrapers and bridges. Whether a professional engineer or an intrigued observer, this podcast provides a deep dive into the world of structural engineering.
Exploring Precast Concrete with Joe Bunkers
Joe Bunkers, the president of Gage Brothers Concrete Products, discusses precast concrete as a prefabricated solution. He highlights the process of casting concrete off-site, transporting it to the construction site, and using cranes for installation. Precast concrete finds applications in architectural cladding, insulated wall panels for energy efficiency, and structural elements like beams, columns, and flooring systems.
Collaborative Design Process with Engineers and Architects
Joe explains the collaborative process between precast manufacturers, architects, and structural engineers. While the structural engineer oversees the building's overall design and load path, the precast team translates rough designs into detailed precast drawings. By involving all stakeholders early in the design process, including subs and manufacturers, a more efficient and effective building design can be achieved.
Innovations in Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC)
The discussion delves into Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC), a material offering significantly higher strength and crack resistance compared to traditional concrete. Joe details the composition of UHPC using fine aggregates, cement particles, and dense mixtures for increased strength and impermeability. The application of UHPC in precast elements like beams and fire caps demonstrates enhanced durability and design flexibility, paving the way for more resilient and sustainable construction practices.
This week we get to continue our education in to UHPC with a discussion with Joe Bunkers from Gage Brothers. Gage Brothers is a group of precast experts helping move the needle on UHPC production and use, take a peak at the links below for a very cool project that comes up in our conversation, and reach out to if you have any questions at all.