Technology 2 – Coursework / 15 University Of Salford

Technology 2 - Coursework /15 University of Salford

Analyze the most suitable construction approach for the sub-structure, super-structure, and cladding and roofing elements of a proposed four-storey university building, considering the building’s specific requirements, site conditions, and construction compatibility. Develop detailed annotated drawings—including floor plans, elevations, cross-sections, and detailed junctions—to demonstrate the application and integration of selected construction technologies, ensuring the building elements are compatible and suitable for the scenario building.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The design and construction of modern multi-storey buildings necessitate careful selection of construction technologies that align with structural, functional, and aesthetic requirements, as well as site conditions. The proposed university building for the External Relations Division at the University of Salford presents unique challenges and opportunities that influence the choice of sub-structure, super-structure, and cladding and roofing systems. An appropriate selection must consider factors such as the site’s geological profile, existing space constraints, the need for flexibility, and the environmental conditions, especially given the groundwater table identified at 1.2 meters below ground level.

Site Conditions and Constraints

The project site’s geological profile indicates variable ground conditions, including demolition waste (0–3.0m), course sand (3.0–4.25m), stiff brown boulder clay (4.25–6.0m), and red sandstone bedrock (6.0–20.0m). The water table at 1.2m presents challenges for excavation, foundation design, and waterproofing. These conditions highlight the necessity for foundation systems capable of dealing with variable materials, water ingress, and stability issues, especially considering the proximity of the water table and the potential for groundwater rise during construction.

Sub-structure Selection

Foundations

The foundation system forms the building’s base, transferring loads to the ground and ensuring stability. Given the variable soil profile and the water table, deep foundations such as pile systems are appropriate. The use of bored cast-in-situ piles or precast concrete piles can effectively bypass weak soil layers such as clay and sand, reaching the more stable bedrock at 6 meters below ground. This strategy offers stability, supports the load of the four-storey structure, and offers variability for future modifications.

Moreover, reinforced concrete pile foundations can be designed with waterproofing measures, such as pile caps with integral waterproof membranes, to mitigate water ingress from the high water table. The selection between driven piles and bored piles depends on site access, environmental impact, and construction logistics. Bored piles are suited given their minimal noise and vibration impact, compatible with the surrounding university environment.

Basement and Car Park

The basement design, serving as plant, storage, and pool areas, requires consideration of water ingress potential and adequate waterproofing. Diaphragm wall systems or secant pile walls may be employed for basement retaining walls, providing effective groundwater control and structural support. The basement floor should incorporate a reinforced concrete slab designed with waterproof membranes and drainage layers to prevent water penetration from the groundwater table, addressing the high water table issue directly.

Super-structure Selection

Structural Frame

The structure’s frame must support the building’s height, loads, and flexibility expectations. Steel frame systems are highly suitable, offering rapid construction, adaptability for open plan layouts on the middle floors, and ease of modification for future partitioning. Steel frames also perform well in resisting lateral loads, essential for stability considering the building’s height and external factors like wind.

Alternatively, reinforced concrete frames could be employed, providing durability and fire resistance. However, concrete framing involves longer construction periods and less flexibility once cast. The choice should factor in the necessity for spatial flexibility, future partitioning, and construction schedule considerations. Steel frames combined with core shear walls can optimize stability and flexibility, crucial for institutional buildings with changing spatial needs.

Floor Systems

For the floors, a composite steel-deck system on steel framing provides strength, lightweight characteristics, and ease of installation. This system facilitates open plan spaces, interesting ceiling heights, and supports services integration. The upper floors designated as offices and executive suites benefit from this flexibility, aligning with client requirements for adaptable layouts.

Cladding and Roofing Selection

External Cladding

For external cladding, a rainscreen facade comprising insulated panels or brick-slip systems offers aesthetic appeal, thermal performance, and durability. The rainscreen system allows for ventilation, reducing the risk of moisture ingress and managing condensation, which is important considering the proximity of the water table. Aluminum composite panels or high-performance terracotta tiles can be employed, depending on aesthetic and environmental considerations.

Roofing

The roofing system should be robust, thermally efficient, and waterproof. A flat roof with a conventionally supported reinforced concrete slab topped with thermal insulation and a waterproof membrane (such as EPDM or Bituminous membrane) is suitable. Incorporating green roof elements can also improve insulation and urban heat island effects, aligning with sustainable construction principles.

Integration of Elements and Construction Compatibility

All selected systems must function cohesively. Deep foundations underpin a steel frame building, with connections designed to accommodate differential movements and load transfer effectively. Basement waterproofing must align with the foundation system to prevent water ingress. The cladding attaches to the steel or concrete frame through suitably designed fixings, allowing ventilation and thermal performance. The roofing is integrated into the upper structural frame, ensuring weather resistance and thermal insulation, vital for occupant comfort and building energy efficiency.

Conclusion

The optimal construction approach for the proposed university building involves using bored cast-in-situ piles with waterproofed pile caps for the sub-structure, a steel frame for the super-structure, and a composite floor system. External cladding should be a vented rainscreen facade, while the roof comprises a reinforced concrete slab with high-performance waterproofing and thermal insulation. The integration of these systems provides stability, flexibility, durability, and environmental performance, tailored to the specific site conditions and functional requirements of the building.

References

  • Allen, E., & Iano, J. (2019). Fundamentals of Building Construction: Materials and Methods. John Wiley & Sons.
  • British Standards Institution (2016). BS EN 1997-1: Eurocode 7: Geotechnical Design — Part 1: General Rules. BSI.
  • Henderson, M., & Green, M. (2017). Structural Systems in Building. Routledge.
  • McPolin, D., & Byrne, P. (2020). Construction Technology 1. Routledge.
  • Nelson, H. (2018). Building Construction Illustrated. Pearson.
  • Publications Office of the European Union (2018). Eurocode 2: Design of Concrete Structures. European Committee for Standardization.
  • Princeton, T. (2019). Sustainable Building Design. Wiley.
  • Shah, R., & Taylor, G. (2015). Foundations and Ground Improvement. CRC Press.
  • Trinidad, J., & Rivera, R. (2021). Modern Cladding Technologies. Springer.
  • Watson, M. (2015). Building Construction Handbook. Routledge.

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