CompositesWorld
Issue link: https://cw.epubxp.com/i/919214
JANUARY 2018 34 CompositesWorld INSIDE MANUFACTURING C-GRID trusses in CarbonCast wall system cut construction time, cost, complexity and carbon footprint in energy- efficient urban student housing. » Precast concrete is a construction product made by curing concrete in a reusable mold or form. Produced in a controlled factory environ- ment, precast concrete can be closely monitored during cure, resulting in a higher quality product than can be provided when concrete is poured and cured in job-specific forms at construction sites. is offsite production also enables wider design possibilities, including use of lightweight, high-strength concrete mixes, foam-core insulation in precast panels and reinforcement with steel or synthetic materials. ese options allow for longer spans, a reduced number of supports and thinner panels, which contribute to reductions in weight and cost. A precast plant can reuse its concrete forms hundreds to thousands of times, which also helps to reduce cost. Onsite complexity is reduced as well, as is the construction schedule because manufacturing of the precast elements can begin while the building foundation is prepared. Manufactured off-site, precast elements can be stored, then transported to the construction site and installed as needed. Precast concrete is commonly used today in bridges, parking structures, office buildings, arenas, manufacturing and storage facilities, high-rise apartments and By Ginger Gardiner / Senior Editor Higher performance in precast concrete with CFRP Lighter, thinner, stronger walls = faster construction Construction of the GSU Piedmont Central student housing project in downtown Atlanta was completed in one year — from foundation pour to student move-in — using the CarbonCast wall system, reinforced with carbon fiber composite C-GRID shear trusses (photo below). Source (left) | AltusGroup / Metromont Source (below) | Chomarat