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Applications of Hollow Core Plank

The NiCore™ hollow core concrete plank by Nitterhouse Concrete Products (Nitterhouse) are precast plank made from high-strength concrete with voids in the middle. These precision-manufactured plank are a very popular floor and roof system specified by contractors, builders, architects and engineers for building projects. Explore how hollow core plank are used and their various applications. Why Use Hollow […]

Why & How is Precast Concrete Prestressed?

What is the purpose of prestressing concrete if it is already subject to significant stress when supporting a load? Imagine building a concrete beam but not including any reinforcing bars or stirrups. It would have a very limited capacity for supporting any load. Before too long as the loading is increased the plain concrete beam […]

Expansion (Isolation) Joint Determination in Parking Structures

When designing long structures subjected to significant gravity and lateral seismic & wind loads it is also important to take into consideration the effects of thermal, shrinkage, creep, etc. volumetric effects as they relate to the length of the structure, and when to consider the need for isolation joints. It is customary to call these […]

Seismic & Wind Loading for Parking Structures – Shear Walls & Openness

Lateral seismic and wind loads significantly influence the selection of structural framing for precast parking structures. While it is not always the case, seismic loading usually controls the lateral design because it is a direct function of the mass of the structure, and robust precast concrete structures are naturally more massive than many other building […]

Seismic & Wind Loading for Parking Structures – Shear Wall Design Considerations

Lateral seismic and wind loads significantly influence the selection of structural framing for precast parking structures. While it is not always the case, seismic loading usually controls the lateral design because it is a direct function of the mass of the structure, and robust precast concrete structures are naturally more massive than many other building […]