Quality in Precast Concrete

This book has been prepared as a practical guide for those responsible for supervising various stages of precast concrete construction. The author describes current practice in detailing, producing and erecting precast concrete for building and civil engineering works. The objective of this book is to promote an understanding of the importance of good communications between the architect, engineer, designer, producer and the constructor. As well as setting out sound practical detail and proven techniques of manufacture and erection it outlines the benefits to be achieved by utilizing available design and detailing capability and capitalizing on the funds of practical skills and experience which exist in industry. Structural, structural/visual concrete are examined in depth, reference being made to concrete technology and production techniques. Key points that require the attention of those responsible for particular aspects of design, planning, manufacture and erection are established. Knowledge of the practicalities of precasting is difficult to obtain without involvement in the actual processes employed.
This book is intended to provide practical information for architects, engineers, designers, construction and production managers and supervisors, particularly those with construction experience who come new to the precast discipline. The information will also be useful to students in advanced courses on construction management and allied topics. Some of the points of supervision highlighted results directly from the authors experience and contact with precast operations, other points have emerged from studies of the work of friends and contacts within the precast industry, amongst them tradesmen, supervisors, managers, architects and engineers. Materials and equipment suppliers, system designers and operators have also assisted by providing information on specialist matters.