The finite-element method: software optimizes precast components

When wanting to optimize precast components in structural, formal and economic terms, engineers and designers will inevitably have to use tailored verification and FEM programs. This article provides insights into existing options, benefits and limitations of computer-based design.

In many engineering fields, the finite-element method (FEM) has long been the established standard, including the aerospace, shipbuilding, automotive, and mechanical and plant engineering industries. Optimized shapes and minimized material consumption and weight pay off, particularly when it comes to series production. For this reason, the FEM-based static and dynamic verification of various types of individual and composite structural frameworks, including bar-shaped, slab, shear and shell-like designs, is of particular interest to the precast industry. Today, this method is well-suited to...

Related articles:

Issue 09/2012

Structural and energy-related design of reinforced concrete sandwich facades

Today, designers need to meet a large number of carefully coordinated requirements when designing state-of-the-art buildings. During the last couple of years, the focus has been not only on design...

more
Issue 02/2016 Subsequent connection of structural concrete and reinforced-concrete components

Long-term structural behavior of bonded anchors

Bonded anchors are used to connect additional concrete or reinforced-concrete components to existing structures. They are subject to permanent loading during their service life. Under this permanent...

more
Issue 09/2015

Thermal bridges: minimizing weak spots with an adverse effect on energy performance

Thermal bridges are problematic for several reasons: they adversely affect the energy consumption of buildings, hygienic conditions and living comfort. Thermal bridges may cause up to 50?% of heat...

more
Issue 11/2010 Development of an Easy-to-Use Design Tool

Analysis of Load-Bearing and Deformation Behavior of Sandwich Elements

Load-bearing behavior of sandwich elements The load-bearing behavior of random, layered structural components is determined by the stiffness of the individual layers and by the type and extent of...

more
Issue 08/2018

Load-bearing behavior of wall elements with formwork anchors integrated in the insulation material

Increasing thermal and acoustic requirements on external wall systems more and more demand for multi-layer wall structures. Wall panels made of precast concrete elements fulfilling these requirements...

more