WEEK 1 Mass Construction Tower This is a challenge in which students are supposed to build the tallest building possible using a wooden block called the Medium Density Fibre (MDS). Components inside MDS are wood dusts (usually gotten from wood chopping left overs) and resin, compressed into a preferable density. This material has light color and is relatively lightweight: enabling the structure of the building to stand firm and not easily blown away by the wind.
An elephant figurine was used in order to develop the ability of students to plan ahead in terms of size and shape of the building. The category was the elephant should be able to enter and move around the building, along with the competition with other groups to make the tallest and most stable building. Below are some notes taken in the building process:
Image 1: steps on how the tower was built
WEEK 1 It is suggested that in making the door for the elephant figurine should be done in the last step after the building is completed, as the blocks in the upper side would have enough weight for the bottom blocks to support the hole (unsupported blocks) in the doorway. Dome-shaped side is less stable compared to straight side; this makes it easier for the door hole to be made in the domeshaped side. The amount of blocks taken out depended on the size of the figurine (Image 2).
Image 2: steps on how the doorway was formed
In regards of the stability between the domeshaped side and the straight side, it is noted from Ching (2008) that the load will always move downward towards the ground (Image 3). This proves that the straight side of the building supports more weight compared to the domeshaped side (Image 4). Thus, if the doorway is made at the straight side of the building, the whole tower is likely to collapse.
Image 3: how loads work on a figure
Some other examples made by other group are shown below:
Image 4: load path of the tower
Image 5: other examples of the tower
WEEK 1 Paper Pedestal Paper has an amazing strength for a material with high flexibility. It is shown by the ability of a paper to be bent easily, and its ability to hold up a brick when it is formed in certain ways. Paper has strands of fibres within that help it to be flexible without breaking apart unless a large force pulling it apart. Students were challenged to form a pedestal made out of paper to hold up a brick, not less that 10cm high, in order to show the strength of strands in the paper.
WEEK 2 Balsa Frame Tower Students are challenged to build the highest frame tower using strips of balsa wood. Balsa wood is a type of wood that is low in density, very lightweight and has long fibres. According to Robinson et al (2004), wood is an example of anisotropic material, as its properties depended on the way that the wood is cut (along or across the fibres). The fibres have supported the wood gain its strength; therefore it has to be cut along the fibres and not across. It is, too, important to prevent splinters while cutting or working with the wood.
It is important that the base should have a strong support for the whole tower as the tower is going to be tall. Started out with 3 legs for the building and woods are set across each legs to help the base to stand still firmly (Image 1). The base should be wide enough for it to hold up the weight of the tower.
Below are the comparison of tower A, B, and C observed in the tutorial group (Image 2). Balsa tower A and C has similar structure. The only difference is that the size of the triangular frame is bigger in tower A than C. As the result, tower A can stand for a longer time compared to tower C that collapsed within several minutes. This is resulted by the inability of the triangular frame to support the weight of the long rod glued at the top. Tower B, however, cannot be compared with both tower A and C as it does not have the same height compared to other towers.
Image 1: first step in making tower A
Image 2: graphical comparison of 3 models
Image 3: real photo of tower A, B and C
WEEK 2 Compared to all towers, tower A has the least firm structure. It is proven by the bending in the joint of the frame that happens in tower A but not in other towers (Image 4). One reason is that tower A has jointed wood strips (Image 5) whilst other towers do not. Secondly, the way by which the two wood strips are joined together is not strong enough for it to hold the weight of its load within the triangular frame structure (Image 6). And finally is the thickness of the strip used as the it goes up the tower; middle part uses thinner strip compared to upper part, making the centre of the structure to collapse as the thin strip cannot hold up the weight (Image 7). In tower B, it is presumably to be the strongest structure because each wood strip supported securely by putting another strip at the centre of each strip; this helps the frame reduce its tendency to move and thus it is less flexible. Tower C has similar structure with tower A. However, the small size of the structure has made the strips to be strong enough for it to hold the load within the triangular frame structure.
Image 4: bending of the frame in tower A
Image 6: joint needs extra support for it to stay straight
Image 5: the way of taping the jointed wood strips
Image 7: the tower collapsed – the middle strip couldn’t support the upper weight
WEEK 2 Water Tank Structure The task in this activity is to build the strongest support for a “water tank� by using 4 straws and needles. The strength is measured by how much weight can the structure support, which is done by pushing the structure downward towards the weight measurer underneath it. The first attempt made by the lecturer was to measure the approximate weight that a straw and a set of straws can hold. It is important that in order to reach the maximum strength, the straws have to stand straight, as the load will be transferred down the plastic straw and not to the space in the middle or outside.
WEEK 3 Off-site Melbourne Uni Buildings This week students were having an off-site activity around the University of Melbourne campus. This activity will help the students to analyse different structures within buildings and how to distinguish between different types of materials used. There were several buildings being introduced by tutors in terms of structure and materials. First building being discussed was Lot 6 CafĂŠ (Image 1). It can be seen clearly that the structure of the building is a frame structure. What students cannot see is that the concrete used in the building is reinforced with steel rods. This increases the strength of the building and makes the building more stable.
Second site is the South Lawn Underground Car Park. The structure is made out of concrete, and it is reinforced by steel around the rings. The columns support the lawn above from falling to the car park, and it also acts as a place for plants in the lawn to spread its roots and absorb water. However, trees put so much pressure on the structure and make it crack and leak.
The next destination is the Old Arts building. Yellowish brown color of the building shows that the material is sandstone. This is an example of very fine sandstone, which is found not from Melbourne. Some parts of the building are made of other stones and covered with a layer of sandstone, while the others have a big cut of limestone. This can be seen from the appearance of the building.
WEEK 3 Arts West building has a very distinctive feature, in which its canopy is pointing out to Professors Walk lane right in front of it. This structure gives a good example on how a wood beam and steel truss are joined together to form a beautiful faรงade. From the picture, it can be seen that the wood beam is made of laminated wood that are glued together, forming a high-density wood to make it firm. It is capped with steel to increase the strength of the structure.
Babel building is done by masonry combined with concrete work. This is one mistake that was not discovered in the early days; concrete shrinks with exposure to water whilst bricks absorb water and expand. This caused the wall of the building to break down. And to overcome the problem, some steel rods are planted inside the building to hold up the bricks from falling over.
This is the staircase that is found at the west end of union house. The staircase is made at a later time and it is known by the use of metals instead of masonry. At first glance, students thought that the metal wire hangs the staircase, but instead the footing is the real support of the staircase. It has a simple structure to carry the dead load and live loads as people walk along the staircase.
WEEK 3 North side of union house is this roof covering up the lawn. This is an example of membrane structure. It can be identified through the shape and the way that the structure is set up. It is supported by wires that put tension on the membrane in order to make it open wide. Every two main wires from the membrane are supported by one pole, by which the pole is supported by another two wires to prevent it from falling over. This is one example of a tension between the wires from the membrane and wires connected to the ground that occurs in the poles.
Sport building is highlighted on the joint of the frame that supports the building. It is made up of a fixed frame. According to Ching (2008), fixed frame supports fixed joints and is more resistant to deflection. In this case, moving building will cause the glass walls to break, as it is the main feature of the building.
WEEK 3 Construction Workshop Additional class are being held for students, in order to know more about how loads are transferred down within a structure, as well as how different materials have different characteristics that affect the way the structure is impacted. With a span of 1 metre, and maximum height of 400mm Students are asked to design a “bridge� to be tested for its strength, by pressing down the centre and measure the weight applied to the structure by the time it is broken. The equipment in image 1 will be used to measure the strength of the bridge. The steer wheel will move the load down, and the total amount of force it exerted will be the base is measuring the maximum weight the bridge can hold up to. The ruler will measure the maximum distance of deflection that structure can bear until it breaks.
Image 1: equipment
The direction of the wood grain affects the level of tendency for the wood to break. According to Newton (2014), timber breaks parallel to the grain; if load is applied parallel to the direction, structure will have more strength to hold the load, as it will transfer the load directly to the ground and this gives an effective carriage of load. When cross-section is made within the structure, it will carry a percentage of the load diagonally along the section. The weakest part of cut wood is the knot; this affects the way that the crack is formed. Bridge B and C have their breakage at the centre, as there is no cross bracing that transfers the load to the side.
Image 4: load path diagram and break point
Image 2: bridge A
Image 3: bridge B and C
Image 5: bridge B, C and A respectively
WEEK 4 Construction Drawing
Image 1: Oval Pavilion plan drawing
Scaling of drawings is important in order to give plans with exact proportion within a smaller paper size. The scaled drawings will be used as guides for builders and people in charge of the construction. There are so many information that students can take from the main plan drawing. Symbols and codes area used to annotate different elements of the building (Image 2), which are difficult to be presented in a scaled, black and white drawing plan.
Image 2: symbols and grid
Image 3: title block
WEEK 4 The grid acts as the guidelines for navigation through the construction plan (Image 4). There are several section plans that cannot be annotated in the plan, and instead it is easier to annotate it in the elevation or other sections (Image 5). Elevations and sections also give more details in terms of finishing materials used, and give the image of the final design of the building. Image 4: elevation drawing
Detail drawing of the parts will give information on how parts are constructed (Image 6), and therefore people in charge will be able to detect faults that will need improvements, as well as how the building will be protected against heat and moisture to improve the durability of the building. Clouds in some of the plans indicate new ideas on the construction plan (Image 7).
Image 5: section drawing
Image 6: detail drawing
Image 7: clouds
WEEK 5 Oval Pavilion
Image 1: top view (roof)
Image 2: front view (column)
Our group decided to make the base and the roof from cardboard, which is easy to find, easy to cut and is available in large size. Wood sticks are used in the making of the frame, which are unfortunately relatively dense, heavy and difficult to cut. And finally balsa wood is used as back up.
Image 3: cardboard base
Image 4: wood stick structure
Image 5: cardboard roof
Dimensions are measured from 1:10 plan and the angle is derived from the spacing recorded. It is found that the frame has the same pattern lengthwise, as seen in Image 2. The sticks are connected together with tape, a very handy tool but the adhesive is not suitable for wood, making it difficult to make a firm structure. For the roof, dimensions are only taken from top view only and because of the manual recording; the sizes derived are mostly approximations. Angles were not measured in making the roof as the result of not bringing compass along and, in this case, it is a huge mistake. Therefore, our group made an exact copy of the roof plan and used the small drawing as the guide to determine the angle (Image 1).
WEEK 5
Image 6: columns are supported with bracing
After all parts are done, the assembly had few major problems that affected its ability to stand firmly on the base. Firstly, the height of the frame is measured only above the ground and the columns are does not have a fixed base for it to stand on. The uneven size of left and right sides of the structure made it fall on one side, which is towards the heavier size (Image 8). To prevent it from falling, bracing is added on the heavier side (Image 6). The cardboard roof adds the weight even more to the columns, making the bracing to fail, and as the result the roof is not being attached to the structure (Image 7)
Image 8: explanatory drawing of the faults Image 7: built structure with the roof held up
Image 9: structure B, C and D respectively, using balsa wood as the main material
Other prototypes made by other groups show different approaches in building different parts of the building. Most of them used balsa wood as the main material of the structure. This is because balsa wood is light, low density and easy to cut, which is easier to work with. In structure B, the group uses a heavier and sturdier base and uses balsa wood for the frame at the top of the structure. As balsa wood is very light, it is able to stand only by taping it to the base.
WEEK 6 Site Visit Presentation Precast concrete slab – the location of the site is suitable for precast concrete slab to be delivered, as there is enough space for transportation modes to park and bring the precast concrete along. This also speeds up the construction, especially if the site is a public space or apartment building
Kensington
Frame structure – uses timber framework, it is cheaper than steel, fast and more lightweight
Camberwell
Veneer brickwork – uses timber stud wall as the structural frame wall and brickwork as the façade of the building. Lightweight structure on the top floors – using scyon flooring rather than concrete; “advanced lightweight cement composite with heavy-duty performance”
Bracing – uses cross-bracing and vertical bracing. Cross bracing is used to prevent the timber stud frame from shearing effect, while the vertical bracing is to strengthen the timber studs frame from any deflection caused by the load above it.
WEEK 8 1 : 1 Detail Drawing This week students are tasked to draw detail drawing of a section from the Oval Pavilion. My section is a double-glazed window wall, and here students will be able to see how the glass is installed, and how to prevent moisture from entering the room. To make sure where the structure is located, grid line C was used as the reference to read through the floor plan.
Image 1: measurements for 1:1 scale drawing
Image 2: scanned form official construction drawing
Image 3: section derived from the grid line
WEEK 9 Swanston Square Project This week students are going on site, to Swanston Square that is under construction. This building has 31 floors in total, 536 metres above ground. From this site visit, students can learn the construction of several structural elements in an actual building construction. The trip will cover some major points in the construction of structural system, mechanical system and enclosure system, which were conducted in level 29, 14 and 5 respectively. Image 1: building under construction
Image 2: in situ concrete (steel framework)
Image 3: anchor
29th floor is going to be the skydeck of this building. At current condition, concrete slab has not been poured out yet and students are able to see the structural system of in-situ concrete, particularly post-tension concrete. It consists of steel reinforcement, steel tendon and the anchor (Image 2, 3). The process includes the tensioning of steel tendon after concrete has been poured out and cured; the anchor performs the tensioning to the steel tendon (Image 5). Post-tensioning results in a stronger slab and it is more cost effective, as less concrete and less steel is used.
Image 4: steel framework
Image 5: anchor drawing
WEEK 9 In 14th floor is the space where students can learn what is behind the wall and ceiling; what kind of mechanical structures lies behind the white planes. In the ceiling, there are electrical appliances for lighting and emergency alarm, water pipes for water sprinkler, exhaust system as well as air conditioner (Image 6). Especially for exhaust, it has PVC pipe going out to the window. It is made sure that condensation is not happening along the way to prevent rusting to the window frames and blocked up exhaust system. Image 6: mechanical system
Behind the bathroom walls are the water pipes for water system and the controller, as well as cables for electricity. The wall is structured using steel metal studs with fractions of timber is put in several places in the studs (Image 7). These are to strengthen the studs, in particular is to prevent buckling. Timber is an isotropic material and therefore it can improve the rigidity of the structure. Image 7: wall frame
Timber studs are used instead of metal for the appliances in the bathroom (Image 8). An explanation is that to prevent rusting to the metal studs in the wall due to water use in the area, especially if the water pipes are leaking.
Image 8: wall frame in toilet
Image 10: insulation in walls and flooring Image 9: wood for rigidity
WEEK 9 For the enclosure system, there are several points to be considered that is final appearance and the security of the room. Insulation from acoustic and fire needs to be installed to maintain the privacy and security of tenants in the room (Image 10). It is put within the wall between the plaster, which is the outer finish of the wall. Image 11: mechanical system covered by panels in the ceiling
The windows in the room uses frosted glass as its material. It has the properties by which it is not seethru from the outside but light can penetrate through the glass. This allows the access of natural light to the building while maintaining the privacy. It also uses double glazed window to neutralize the temperature inside the room, which the extreme temperature from the weather outside will not easily affect the room. This results in a more efficient energy use, as A/C and heater will be used less frequently. Kitchen bench is using ceramic tiles and shelves are using a plastic-coated material that gives its glossy finish. These are materials that are easy to clean, which is perfect for kitchen use. The color is also carefully selected so that it can compliment the design of the room.
Image 12: different types of materials used for the desired finish
Floors are covered with carpet to retain the heat and give a comfortable surface to walk on. It is also a good material to capture sound and prevent it from echoing across the room (Image 12).
WEEK 10 1: 1 Detail Drawing Presentation Image 1 is the final drawing of the double glazed window measured in week 8. As the most obvious, different colors are used to distinguish the different materials used in the detail. Using Image 2 as the guide, orange color represents the structural silicone, the striped figure is a painted steel structure, and the thick green stripe is a vapor barrier, the dotted figure is concrete. From the different materials, it can be determined what it is used for and why. Steel is used as the main material in the structure, as the properties of steel is strong and very durable. The exposed steel is painted to prevent rusting, so that the steel structure will not deteriorate fast. Structural silicone is used to stick the steel components with the glazing. In this case, silicone is used as the adhesive medium so that the glazing can stand firm in the structure. And also the silicone will act as the basic sealant, which prevent water and air penetration. The advantage of using silicone is that it is heat resistant and has the rubber-like structure, perfect for the job.
Image 1: detail drawing
Image 2: materials used in the detail
Double glazed window is very efficient in retaining heat from penetrating in and out. The interior of the building will not be affected by the extreme weather outside, as the gap between the glasses stores the heat and some are reflected back. This results in a cost efficiency, as the room of the building will use less energy for heater and air conditioner to make it more comfortable.
KNOWLEDGE MAP Strength: Measured in regards of compression and tension
Behaviour: Properties of a material that defined in the direction of its components (isotropic and anisotropic)
Shape: Classified into monodimensional (linear), bidimensional (planar) or tridimensional (volumetric)
Stiffness: State of a material that is flexible or stiff
Static: 1. Accumulated slowly without fluctuating rapidly in magnitude or position 2. Deformation occurs when static force reaches a peak 2. Live loads – comprise any moving or movable loads, may act vertically downward and horizontally 3. Dead loads – comprise self-weight of the structure and building elements permanently attached, acting vertically downward
Fixed: Resists movement, but it can bend as some materials can expand
Pin: Takes out moment forces, relies on tension between joint and material
Structural Joint
Roller: Allows load to move in one direction, usually for expansion and contraction
Construction Material
Dynamic: 1. Applied suddenly, rapid changes in magnitude and point of application 2. Structure develops inertial forces in relation to its mass 3. Maximum deformation does not correspond to maximum magnitude of applied force 4. Wind loads – kinetic energy of a moving mass of air 5. Earthquake – series of longitudinal and transverse vibration in earth’s crust
Loads Construction: 1. Performance requirements 2. Aesthetic qualities – desired relationship of building to its site in terms of form, massing, color, pattern, texture and detail 3. Regulatory constraints – compliance with zoning ordinances and building codes 4. Economic considerations – initial cost and life-cycle cost 5. Environmental impact – conversation and efficiency of resources and energy 6. Construction practices – sets of safety standard Enclosure: 1. Shell or envelope of a building 2. Consist of roof, exterior walls, windows and doors 3. Protect from moisture, heat, airflow and noise 4. Access for light, air, views and people
Mechanical: 1. Provide essential services to a building 2. For water supply, sewage disposal, heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, electrical, vertical transport, fire-fighting, waste disposal and recycling
Building System
Structural: 1. Support and transmit applied gravity and lateral loads to the ground 2. Vertical extension of a building above the foundation
KNOWLEDGE MAP Water Harvesting
Insulation
Thermal Mass
Local Material
Material Efficiency
Environmentally Sustainable Design Night Air Purging
Wind Energy
Smart Sun Design Solar Energy Cross Ventilation
Concrete block: 1. Dimension 30x30x390, weight 11kg 2. Manufactured from cement, sand, gravel and water through process of mixing, moulding and curing (hydration of chemical process as the cement sets) 3. Classified as load-bearing (Concrete Masonry Unit, structural CMU) or non-load bearing (dividing and decorative wall) 4. Strengthened with steel reinforcing bars and filled with grout to provide greater structural resistance 5. Shrinks as cement reduces in volume when it hydrates and drying shrinkage occurs, as water is lost ! Stone: 1. Igneous (granite, basalt, bluestone) very dense and dark in color, used in footing 2. Sedimentary (limestone, sandstone) much softer and less dense, prone to damage by wind and water 3. Metamorphic (marble, slate) high cost, formed when structure of igneous and sedimentary stone changes when subjected to pressure, high temperatures or chemical processes !
Mass Construction
Bricks: 1. Made by shaping clay and water, then goes to extreme temperature (firing) 2. Permeable, which can be joined with water-based mortar, adequately ventilated so wetness can escape and not deteriorates 3. It absorbs moisture and expands overtime (expansion of joints required), salt and lime from soil can be drawn up through the bricks and can cause efflorescence (growth of salt crystals) !
KNOWLEDGE MAP Introduction: 1. Hard, solid material when cement is mixed with water and binds the sand and gravel aggregates together (too much water will weaken the concrete, too little water will make the concrete too stiff and difficult to work with). 2. Fluid and shapeless before it hardens, formed through formwork (temporary support used to hold the liquid concrete in place until it becomes hard
In situ concrete: 1. Pouring, vibrating, curing and flat finishing done by hand within limited time 2. Widely used in footings, retaining walls and bespoke structural elements 3. Construction joints – divide construction into smaller, more manageable sections of work 4. Control joints – absorb expansions and contractions that thermal variations cause 5. Need to be detailed appropriately, especially in terms of water and moisture control
Precast concrete: 1. Fabricated in a controlled environment with standard treatment to avoid many quality control issues associated with in situ concrete, at much faster rate 2. Used in applications associated with structure of a building, bridge, or civil works, as the primary structure or self-supporting panel elements 3. Common in retaining walls, walls and columns 4. Construction joints –naturally occur when one precast element meets another 5. Structural joints – used to join precast elements and to other parts of the structure 6. Cheap and very high level of quality, not damaged by transport, limited in size due to transport
Structural: Direction, strength and stiffness, performance of wood is determined by the grain direction (isotropic) – strong and stiff parallel to grain, weak perpendicular to grain
Timber
Concrete
Consideration: 1. Knots – weak points or cause slope of grain (for bending, compression and tension), timber break parallel to grain 2. Water related damage – fungal attack (when moisture content >20%), swelling shrinkage can cause cracks 3. Avoid exposure; seal against moisture movement (paint), particular care is needed with end grain (seal before assembly) 4. Isolate timber from insect attack (termite and borer), chemical barriers/physical barriers between ground and timber 5. Protect timber from sunlight and heat – direct sunlight causes excessive drying, shrinkage, breakdown wood/cellulose
KNOWLEDGE MAP Engineered Timber Products Chipboard & strandboard: 1. Made by layering hardwood and softwood residuals (chips and strands) in specific orientations with wax and a resin biner by applying high temperature and pressure 2. Used as part of structural systems (flooring) or cladding finish or bracing Cross Laminated Timber (CLT): 1. Made by gluing and pressing thin laminates together to form a sheet 2. Laminate grain laid in alternate direction (90o); provide strength in two directions 3. Used as structural panels (horizontal and vertical) Glue Laminated Timber (glulam): 1. Made from gluing pieces of dressed sawn timber together to form a deep member 2. Most laminates with grain aligned to longitudinal direction 3. Used for beams, posts, portal frames (mainly structural)
Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL): 1. Made from laminating thin sheets of timber 2. Grain aligned to longitudinal direction, high strength 3. Used for beams, posts, portal frames (mainly structural) where walls and roofs are connected together Plywood: 1. Made by gluing and pressing thin laminates together to form a sheet 2. Laminate grain in alternate direction; provide strength in two directions 3. Used in structural bracing, structural flooring, formworks, joinery, marine applications Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF): 1. Made by breaking down hardwood or softwood waste into fibres, combining it with wax and resin binder by applying high temperature and pressure 2. Generally more dense and quality than plywood 3. Used in non-structural application (joinery)
LVL, glulam, CLT, plywood, MDF, chipboard & strandboard
KNOWLEDGE MAP Ferrous and alloys: 1. Iron – magnetic properties, very reactive chemically, good compressive strength 2. Steel – alloy of iron with carbon, very strong and resistant to fractures, long lasting and resistant to wear if properly protected 3. Stainless steel alloy – chromium as main alloying element, corrosion resistant, used in harsh environment where specific inert finishes are required
Metal
Non-ferrous and alloys 1. Aluminium – very light, non-magnetic, non sparking, easily formed, reacts with air creating very fine layer of oxide that keeps it from further oxidation, pure aluminium is soft and lacks of strength 2. Copper – reddish with bright metallic lustre when polished and develops green patina in oxidation, very malleable and ductile, good conductor of heat and electricity 3. Zinc – bluish-white lustrous metal, brittle at ambient temperature, malleable at 100o-150oC, reasonable conductor of electricity, protect iron from corrosion by galvanising 4. Lead – bluish-white lustrous metal, very soft, highly malleable, ductile, relatively poor conductor of electricity, very resistant to corrosion but tarnishes upon exposure to air, toxic to human in large dose 5. Tin – silvery-white metal, malleable, somewhat ductile, has highly crystalline structure, resists water but attacked by strong alkalis and acids, add copper to make bronze 6. Titanium – excellent corrosion resistance, high strength-to-weight ratio, light, strong, low density, not stiff in thin sheets, durable cladding material, expensive 7. Bronze – corrosion resistant, much harder and can be used in engineering and marine applications 8. Brass – malleable and relatively low melting point, not ferromagnetic, used in elements where friction is required (lock, gears, screws) and fittings (knobs, lamps, taps, etc.)
Provenance: Natural rubber sourced from rubber tree, synthesized rubber is technically a plastic Consideration: Weather related damage (sunlight), avoid or minimize sun exposure
Types and uses: 1. Natural rubber used as seals, gaskets and control joints, flooring (in adverse conditions such as laboratories), insulation (electrical wiring), hosing and piping 2. Synthetic rubber EPDM mainly used in gaskets and control joints, neoprene mainly used in control joints, silicone as seals
Rubber!
KNOWLEDGE MAP Provenance: 1. Main purpose is to protect and color 2. Paints are liquid and becomes solid when in contact with air
Types and uses: 1. Oil based – used prior to plastic paints, very good high gloss finishes, not water-soluble 2. Water based – most common unless particular finishes are desired, durable and flexible
Paint!
Types and uses: 1. Thermoplastics (mouldable when heated and becomes solid when cooled, recyclable) used as insulation around copper pipe (polyethene), perspex and acrylic (polymethyl methacrylate), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), roofing (polycarbonate) 2. Thermosetting (can only be shaped once, difficult to recycle) used for finishing surface (melamine formaldehyde), insulation panels (polystyrene) 3. Elastomers (synthetic rubber) used for roofing in rubber sheet (EPDM), neoprene and silicone Consideration: Plastic properties degrade when exposed to weather (especially sunlight), need to be checked and maintained, minimize sun exposure, some have very high expansion/contraction coefficient
Glass!! Tempered glass (toughened glass): 1. Produced by heating annealed glass to 650oC (soft point) and then cooled rapidly, creating high compression in the outer surface 2. Small pellet shapes when cracked, improves safety compared to annealed (used in highly exposed situations)
Properties: 1. Color consistencies – color should resist fading in exposure to UV light (sunlight), red dyes are least stable 2. Durability – paint should resist chipping, cracking, peeling, (for exterior) and effect of rainwater and UV light 3. Gloss – the glosser, the easier to clean 4. Flexibility/plasticity – water based latex paint is more flexible than oil based paint gloss
Provenance: Made from elements such as carbon, silicon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen and chloride, combined by chemical reactions
Plastic!
Clear float glass (annealed): Simplest and cheapest glass; breaks into very sharp and dangerous shards (ideal in low risk glazing scenarios) Laminated glass: Tough plastic interlayer (PVB) bonded together between 2 glass panels. Improves security and safety (sharp fragments tend to adhere to the plastic when cracked)
KNOWLEDGE MAP Roof system: 1. Primary sheltering element for the interior spaces of a building (control the passage of moisture vapor, infiltration of air and the flow of heat and solar radiation. 2. Form and slope of roof must be compatible with the type of roofing used to shed rainwater and melting snow to drainage system Detailing for heat and moisture: 1. Openings need to be drained and kept effectively, remove openings, keep water away, or neutralize forces that move water through openings 2. Controlling heat through conduction (thermal insulation, thermal breaks, double glazing), radiation (reflective surfaces, shading system), thermal mass (absorb and store heat by masonry, concrete and water bodies), controlling air leakage (wrapping building in reflective foil to provide air barrier, weather stripping around doors and windows) Footings and foundations: 1. Allowing building to transfer load to ground, preventing it to slip, overturn and sink 2. Deep foundation in a soil that does not have bearing capacity (unstable) and transmit the load right to bedrock
Movement joints Structures, materials, constructions Maintenance access
Openings: Allow light and ventilation, access and contribute views and appearance
Walls, grids and columns: 1. Enclose, separate, protect the interior from the exterior, moderate climate for the inhabitants, filter out light and insulate from cold and heat 2. Carry load from roof to ground into beams and columns (transfer load around openings from above to the side)
Structural System! Floor system: Support live loads (people, furnishings and movable equipment) and dead loads (weight of floor construction itself), transfer loads horizontally across space to either beams or columns or to loadbearing walls
Cleanable surface
Construction Detailing! Constructability
Health and safety Repairable surface and resistance to damage Ageing (age gracefully)
KNOWLEDGE MAP Composite!Materials! Fiberglass: 1. Made from mixture of glass fibre and epoxy resins in forms of flat, profiled sheet products and formed/shaped products 2. Fire resistant, weatherproof, relatively lightweight and strong 3. Common uses – translucent roof/wall cladding and performed shaped products (pool, water tanks, baths, etc.)! ! Timber composite: 1. Combination of solid timber, engineered timber (solid and sheet), and galvanized pressed steel 2. Minimum amount of material is used for maximum efficiency, cost effective, easy to install, easy to accommodate services 3. Common uses – beams (floor joists and roof rafters), trusses! ! Fibre reinforced polymers: 1. Made from polymer (plastic) with timber, glass or carbon fibres 2. High strength FRP materials with glass or carbon fibre reinforcements provide a strength-to-weight ratio greater than steel, corrosion resistant 3. Common use – decking (and external cladding), structural elements (beams and columns for bridges), fibre reinforced polymer rebar! !
Introduction: 1. Formed from a combination of materials that differs in composition or form and remains bonded together while retain their identities and properties. 2. They act together while retaining the original identities and properties to provide improved specific or synergistic characteristics not obtainable by any of the original components alone Fibre reinforced cement (fibrous): 1. Common forms – sheet and board products (FC sheet) and shaped products (pipes, roof tiles, etc.) 2. Buildings will not burn, resustant to permanent water and termite damage, resistant to rotting and warping, reasonably expensive 3. Common uses – cladding for exterior or wet area walls, floor panels under tiles) Aluminium sheet composite (laminar): 1. Plastic core of phenolic resin (or honeycomb sheet) lined with two external skins of thin aluminium sheet 2. Reduced amounts of aluminium required, lighter weight,less expensive sheets, weather resistant, unbreakable and shock resistant 3. Common uses – feature cladding material in interior and exterior application
Fibre reinforced cement, fiberglass, aluminium sheet composite, timber composite, fibre-reinforced polymers
KNOWLEDGE MAP Health: Minimize waste, choose natural and organic materials Example: PVC is hard to recycle; use non-PVC cables, wools for carpets
Health: Water based paint Reduce particles in the air (minimize dust capture) Clean room with natural products Use bamboo products
Source and waste: Use renewable resources (recycled timber or bamboo)
Heroes and Culprits
Energy: Look at embodied energy and star rating Ecample: buy Australian made, use diodes instead of regular light bulb.
Lifecycle: How is it to clean, how long does it last, easy to assemble and reused
Lateral Support Wind: 1. Size of exposed area 2. Build symmetrical building, separate buildings to reduce pounding, building moving as one entity 3. Remove transfer of loads by inserting more columns, framing a reentrant corner
Earthquake: Mass in the foundation Bracing – to prevent overturning Diaphragm – at horizontal side (flat roofs) to prevent horizontal forces Shear wall – moment resisting frame Seismic base isolation – building is separated from the ground
PROPERTIES TABLE Material
Bricks
Concrete block
Stone
Concrete
Hardness
Medium-high (can be scratched with metallic object)
Mostly mediumhigh (can be scratched with metallic object
Igneous is hardest, then metamorphic and then sedimentary
High (can be scratched with metallic object)
Fragility
Medium (can be broken with trowel, reasonably sturdy)
Medium (can be broken with trowel)
Largely geometry dependent (thickness to surface area ratio), edges of stone most fragile
Low (can be chipped with hammer, not terribly fragile)
Ductility
Very low
Very low
Mostly very low
Very low
Flexibility/plasticity
Very low
Very low
Very low (rigid)
Low
Porosity/permeability
Medium-low (soaked only in prolonged contact with water) Medium (approx. 2-2.5 more dense than water)
Medium (some are sealed to prevent water absorption)
Large range (pumice is very porous, granite is not)
Medium-low (depending on proportions and components)
Medium (approx. 2-2.5 more dense than water)
Largely depending Medium-high (2.5 on stone type more dense than (stones used in water) construction are 2.5-3 more dense than water)
Conductivity
Poor
Poor
Generally poor
Poor
Durability
Very durable
Very durable
Typically extremely durable
Very durable if well constructed
Reusability/recyclability High (can be reused with no change or crushed as recycled aggregate)
Medium (sometimes reused with no change but often crushed as aggregate)
Very high (can be reused with no change or reworked into new shapes for new uses)
Medium-low (can be partially reused as aggregate for new concrete elements)
Sustainability & carbon footprint
Tends to be locally produced with some transport, firing process adds its carbon footprint
Inclusion of recycled waste products from other processes
Transport energy is the main factor, stone sourcing has high environmental cost
High embodied energy, nonrenewable, long lasting
Cost
Generally cost effective but required labor cost
Generally cost effective but labor penalties are often applied
Largely dependent Cost effective but on labor and labor dependent scarcity for formwork and pouring
Density
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PROPERTIES TABLE Material
Timber
Hardness
Metal
Rubber
Plastic
Medium-low Varied (lead is (most timbers can easy to scratch, be easily marked) gold is not)
Harder rubber resist abraision, softer provide better seals
Medium-low (depending on type)
Fragility
Medium-low, geometry dependent (generally will not shatter or break
Low (generally will not shatter or break)
Low (generally Low-medium will not shatter or (generally will not break) shatter or break, high temperatures can degradate plastics quickly)
Ductility
Low (some can be manipulated into shapes in their green state)
High, due to atomic composition
High (when heated state), low (when cold state)
High (when heated state), varied (when cold state)
Flexibility/plasticity
High flexibility, medium plasticity
Medium-high flexibility, high plasticity while heated
High flexibility, plasticity and elasticity
High
Porosity/permeability
High, varies on seasoning, finishing (protection) and fixing
Generally impermeable
All rubbers considered waterproof
Many are waterproof
Density
Extremely varied on timber type
High (aluminium 3 to gold 19 more dense than water)
Medium (approz. 1.5 more dense than water)
Low (PVC 1.5 to polypropylene .65 density of water)
Conductivity
Poor
Very good
Very poor
Very poor
Durability
Very durable if detailed correctly
Depending on type (ferrous metal can rust)
Can be very durable
Varies on type, finishing and fixing
Reusability/recyclability Very high
High
High
High
Sustainability & carbon footprint
Very low embodied energy, fully renewable if correctly sourced
Very high embodied energy, recyclable and renewable if correctly managed
Very low in natural, medium in synthetic, renewable if correctly managed
Embodied energy varies greatly (recyclability), not a renewable resource
Cost
Generally cost effective but labor dependent for on-site work
Generally cost effective (material efficient and an economic option)
Generally cost effective
Generally cost effective
PROPERTIES TABLE Material
Glass
Hardness
High (can be scratched with metallic object)
Fragility
High, differs depending on type of glass (tempered glass is not as brittle as float glass)
Ductility
Very low
Flexibility/plasticity
Very high when molten, very low when cooled
Porosity/permeability
Non-porous, waterproof
Density
Medium-high (2.7 more dense than water, more dense than concrete)
Conductivity
Transmit heat and light but not electricity
Durability
Typically very durable (rust, rot and chemical resistant)
Reusability/recyclability Very high Sustainability & carbon footprint
Typically high embodied energy and carbon footprint, but ease of recycling/reuse makes it sustainable
Cost
Generally expensive to produce and transport
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GLOSSARY Week 1 Load path
The interconnection of all wood framing elements of the lateral and vertical force resisting systems, which transters forces to the foundation
Masonry
Stonework or brickwork
Beams
Rigid structural members designed to carry and transfer transverse loads across space to supporting elements
Reaction force
A force having equal magnitude and the opposite direction along the same line of action as the original force
Point load
A load concentrated over a tiny area
Compression
The state of being compressed, or being shortened by a force
Week 2 Structural joint
Connectors used to joint the structural elements in the form of a point, a line, or a surface
Stability
The resistance of a structure or element thereof to withstand sliding, overturning, buckling or collapsing
Tension
The state or condition of being pulled or stretched
Frame
The timberwork or steelwork that encloses and supports the components of a building
Bracing
Structural elements installed to provide restraint or support (or both) to other members, so that the complete assembly forms a stable structure
Column
A relatively, slender structural compression member such as post, pillar, or strut, supporting a load, which acts in (or near) the direction of its longitudinal axis
Week 3 Moment
An applied load or force that creates bending in a structural member
Retaining wall
A wall that holds up steep grounds from falling over
Pad footing
A thick slab-type foundation used to support a structure or a piece of equipment
Strip footing
Continuous spread footings of foundation walls
Slab on ground
Plate structures that are reinforced to span either to both directions of a structural bay
Substructure
The supporting part of a structure; the foundation
Week 4 Joists
Any of a number of small, parallel beams of timber, steel, reinforced concrete, etc. for supporting floors, ceilings or the like.
GLOSSARY Steel decking
Steel in the form of self-supporting flooring or roofing units laid between joists or rafters. Treated in various ways as a waterproof covering of a deck or roof.
Span
The extent or measure of space between two points or extremities, as of a bridge or roof; the breadth
Girder
A beam, as of steel, wood, or reinforced concrete, used as a main horizontal support in a building or bridge.
Concrete plank
A hollow-core or solidm flat beam used to floor or roof decking. Usually precast and prestressed
Spacing
Distance between parallel erinforcing bars, measured centre to centre
Week 5 Stud
An upright post in the framework of a wall for supporting sheets of lath, wallboard or similar material
Nogging
The process of filling the space between timber framing member with bricks
Lintel
A horizontal supporting member, installed above an opening such as window or a door, that serves to carry the weight of the wall above it
Axial load
A force with its resultant passing through the centroid of a particular section and being perpendiculat to the plane of the section
Buckling
The distortion of a structural member, such as beam or girder under load. This condition is brought on by lack of uniform texture or by irregular distribution of weight, moisture or temperature
Seasoned timber Week 6
Timber that has a moisture content of 19% or less, and is air- or kiln-dried
Rafter
One of a series of sloping parallel beams used to support roof covering
Purlin
One of several horizontal structural members that support roof loads and transfer them to roof beams
Cantilever
A structural member supported at one end only. Any rigid construction extending horizontally well beyond its vertical support.
Portal frame
A frame, usually of steel, consisting of two uprights and a cross beam at the top: the simplest structural unit in a framed building or a doorway
Eave
Portions of a roof that project beyond the outside walls of a building. The bottom edges of a sloping roof.
Alloy
A substance composed of two or more metals
Soffit
The underside of a part or member of a strucure, such as beam, stairway or arch
Top chord
The top member of a truss (typically horizontal), as distinguished from the web members (in roof system)
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GLOSSARY Week 7 Drip
A groove in the underside of a projection, such as a windowsill, that prevents water from running back into the building wall
Vapour barrier
Material used to prevent the passage of vapor or moisture into a structure or another material, this preventing condensation within them
Gutter
A shallow channel positioned just below and following along the eaves of a building for the purpose of collecting diverting water from a roof
Parapet
Part of a wall that extends above the roof level, protects the edge of a platform or roof
Downpipe
A vertical pipe, often of sheet metal (extension of gutter)
Flashing
A thin, impervious sheet of material placed in construction to prevent water penetration or direct the flow of water and moisture
Insulation
Material used in walls, ceilings and floors to retard the passage of heat and sound
Sealant
Any material or device used to prevent the passage of liquid or gas across a joint or opening
Week 8 Window sash
Any framework of a window; may be movable or fixed; may slide in a vertical plane or may be pivoted
Deflection
The bending of a structural member as a result of its own weight or an applied weight. The amount of displacement resulting from this bending.
Moment of inertia
Of a body around an axis, the sum of the products obtained by multiplying each element of mass by the square of its distance from the axis
Door furniture
Any functional or decorative fitting for a door, excluding the lock and hinges
Stress
The internal forces set up at a point in an elastic material by the action of external forces; expressed in units of force per unit area
Shear force
A force acting on a body which tends to slide one portion of the body against the other side of the body (sliding action)
Week 9 Sandwich panel Bending
A panel formed by bonding two thin facings to a thick and usually light weight core
Skirting
The border or section of molding under a window stool
Composite beam
A beam combining different materials to work as a single unit
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The forming of a metal part, by pressure, into a curved or angular shape. Or the stretching of flanging of it along a curved path
GLOSSARY Cornice
An ornamental molding of wood or plaster that encircles a room just below the ceiling
Week 10 Shear wall
A wall portion of a structural frame intended to resist lateral forces, such as earthquake, wind, and a blast, acting in the plane or parallel to the plane of the wall
Soft storey
When one or more floors are significantly weaker or more flexible than thos above and/or below
Braced frame
A wooden structural framing system in which all vertical members, except for corner posts, extend for one floor only. The corner posts are braced to the sill and plates A period of time that a building can be expected to actively and adequately serve its intended function Any relatively broad, flat, horizontal surface, as the outer edge of a cornice, a stringcourse, etc.
Lifecycle Fascia Corrosion
The oxidation of a metal or other material by exposure to chemical or electrochemical action such as rust
IEQ
Indoor Environmental Quality. An important criterion for green, or sustainable, building design, this refers to general overall building occupant comfort. Includes humidity, ventilation and air circulation, acoustics and lighting.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY Brooks,!G.!(2012).!What’s'a'Beam?'What’s'a'Girder.'Retrieved!from! http://are320k.wordpress.com/structuralAvocabulary/! ! Ching,!F.!D.!K.!(2008).!Building'Construction'Illustrated'(4th!ed.).!Danvers,!MA:!John!Wiley!&! Sons,!Inc.! ! Dictionary.com!Unabridged.!(2014).!Dictionary.!Retrieved!from! http://dictionary.reference.com! ! Farlex,!Inc.!(2014).!Dictionary/thesaurus.!Retrieved!from! http://www.thefreedictionary.com/dictionary.htm! ! Hansen!Pole!Buildings.!(2014).!Top'Chord.!Retrieved! http://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/images/glossary/TopAChord.jpg! ! Harris,!C.!M.!(2006).!Dictionary'of'Architecture'and'Construction!(4th!ed.).!United!States:! McGrawAHill.! ! Hes,!D.!(2014).!Herroes'and'culprits.!Retrieved!from! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhdfwGNp_6g&feature=youtu.be! ! Newton,!C.!(2014)!Bricks.!Retrieved!from! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lYlQhkMYmE&feature=youtu.be! ! Newton,!C.!(2014).!Composite'Materials.!Retrieved!from! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uem1_fBpjVQ&feature=youtu.be! ! Newton,!C.!(2014).!Concrete.!Retrieved!from! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1M19C25MLU&feature=youtu.be! ! Newton,!C.!(2014).!Concrete'Blocks.!Retrieved!from! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=geJv5wZQtRQ&feature=youtu.be! ! Newton,!C.!(2014).!Construction'Detailing.!Retrieved!from! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqVwAV7yJCI&feature=youtu.be! ! Newton,!C.!(2014).!Construction'Systems.!Retrieved!from! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zTarEeGXOo&feature=youtu.be! ! Newton,!C.!(2014).!Detailing'for'Heat'and'Moisture.!Retrieved!from! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lhwm8m5R_Co&feature=youtu.be! ! Newton!C.!(2014).!Engineered'Timber'Products.!Retrieved!from! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YrYOGSwtVc&feature=youtu.be! ! Newton,!C.!(2014).!ESD'and'Selecting'Materials.!Retrieved!from! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=luxirHHxjIY&feature=youtu.be! ! ! !
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