Credit: Initial short article released here. What is a joint? Figure 1: Block 9, Fargo, ND A joint is an intentional area that usually develops a tolerance for clearance between surrounding building components and provides a buffer area where production, erection and interfacing tolerance variances can be absorbed. Item tolerance associate with the measurements and dimensional relationships of the individual precast parts.
Interfacing tolerance are related to other products or developing systems in contact with or in close proximity to precast concrete, both before, during and after precast erection. Joints might likewise be needed to accommodate modifications in wall panel or structure measurements brought on by changes in temperature level, moisture material, or deflection from used design loads.
Figure 1 and 2 show some examples of needed joints. Widths of Joints Figure 2: US Bank Arena, Minneapolis, MN The architect develops the tolerances required to make the building idea work and must temper the desire for close tolerances with the knowledge of what can be practically achievable in the plant throughout construction, and in the field throughout erection.
Joint width should not only accommodate variations in the panel measurements and the erection tolerances for the panel, but must also offer a great visual line and adequate width to allow for effective sealing. The efficiency qualities of the joint sealant must be taken into consideration when choosing a joint size.
When joints are too narrow, bond or tensile failure of the joint sealant may occur and/or nearby precast systems might come in contact and go through unanticipated loading, distortion, cracking, and local crushing (spalling). Joint widths need to not be selected for reasons of appearance alone, however need to relate to panel size, developing tolerances, joint sealant materials, and nearby surface areas.
Tolerances in total structure width and length are consumed in the panel joints. Take Reference of a building, out to out, being 2" too little over 300'. The joints widths are a little reduced over most the wall during erection to appropriately find corners at a somewhat decreased grid out to out.