_________________________________________________________________________________________________ Gage
Brothers
suggested using UHPC for the project , thus taking all the steel out of the building and offering a guaranteed maximum price .
“ In the year leading to our formal involvement in the project , we had already started working on it in the background and developed some designs . Once the contractor developer decided to take this leap of faith with us , we assumed Structural Engineer of Record responsibilities to facilitate the transition . We collaborated with the architect , who also agreed to redesign the building , to deliver a ninestory total precast system using UHPC for the 70-foot beams and eliminating all the interior columns ,” Joe adds .
The versatility of UHPC is further exemplified by Gage in the construction of tornado-resistant buildings . “ We are working on ICC 500 ( Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters ) projects designed to resist severe tornadoes in Tornado Alley , especially around Iowa . As part of this , we are developing an
ICC 500-rated gym box made of UHPC for schools to provide a safe room large enough to accommodate all students and faculty during emergencies . We truly
believe that transitioning to UHPC is more environmentally friendly , as it requires much less concrete not only in the construction of precast elements but also in footings , foundations , and support structures . It also gives the flexibility to repurpose the space in the future without the constraints of columns or other impediments , offering a clean slate to completely change the space , whether in five or 20 years ,” Joe concludes .
By promoting diversity and the use of innovative materials like UHPC , Gage is poised to leave a lasting impact on its communities and on the construction industry . ■
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