Structure Magazine - May 2020 PDF

STRUCTURE
NCSEA | CASE | SEI MAY 2020
MASONRY
INSIDE: Masonry Madness 18

Digital Tool Simplifies Masonry Design 12
The Wilkes-Barre Tornado 14
Reinforced Shear Wall Systems 24
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4 STRUCTURE magazine
Contents
Cover Feature
M AY 2020
Columns and Departments

7 Editorial Channeling Tom Hanks By Ed Quesenberry, S.E.
8 Structural Innovation Advancement in Masonry Today

By Peter Roberts
12 Structural Design New Digital Tool Simplifies

Masonry Design By Scott Conwell
14 Structural Performance The Wilkes-Barre Tornado

By Heather A. Sustersic, P.E., Michael Kinzel, Ph.D., and David Malyszek
17 Emerging Technology A Structure as an Electric Battery?

18 MASONRY MADNESS By Peter Roberts
By Cathy Inglis and Jonathon Turley, S.E.
The use of brick challenges the norm with the design of the 24 Structural Systems Reinforced Masonry Shear Wall Systems
University of Technology Sydney’s Dr. Chau Chak Wing By P. Benson Shing, Ph.D., Jianyu Cheng, and Andreas Koutras, Ph.D.
Building. This building has been called everything from a

28 InSights The Shape of Things to Come
treehouse, to a squashed brown paper bag, to a masterpiece.
By Mark Weber, AIA, Jim Kirk, P.E., S.E., and Jillian Weber, Ph.D.
30 Business Practices Inviting and Keeping Women

22 A MASSIVE BEAM TO SPAN in Engineering By Jennifer Anderson
A NEW AUDITORIUM
By Casey Moore, E.I.T., and Thomas M. Corcoran, P.E., S.E. 34 Structural Forum Celebrate the Structural Engineering
The Central Kitsap High School and Middle School Community By Chad S. Mitchell, P.E., S.E.
Replacement project’s feature of the auditorium and the

architect’s desire to maintain the same material along the wall In Every Issue
allowed CMU to be utilized to span across large openings. 4 Advertiser Index
31 NCSEA News
32 SEI Update
Editor's Note
33 CASE in Point
To continue to provide you, our readers, with the same
wealth of information and articles during these extraordinary
times, this issue of STRUCTURE includes Bonus Content only
available in the digital magazine. Our Editorial Board is May 2020 Bonus Content
committed to delivering additional online articles, when
Additional Content Available Only in the Digital Magazine – www.STRUCTUREmag.org
available, until the situation improves.
If you have a success story as an SE working remotely Technology Small Unmanned Aerial Systems
that you would like to share, email your anecdote By Peter M. Babaian, P.E., S.E., and Sean D. Gordon
to [email protected] for posting on the
STRUCTURE website (all stories will be anonymous). A Education Industry Perspective on
process or a product that improved your transition to
Masonry Education By Heather A. Sustersic, P.E.
working remotely may be the solution for someone else.
Stay safe and healthy. Publication of any article, image, or advertisement in STRUCTURE® magazine does not constitute endorsement by NCSEA, CASE, SEI, the
Publisher, or the Editorial Board. Authors, contributors, and advertisers retain sole responsibility for the content of their submissions.
M AY 2 0 2 0 5
A Powerful Software Suite for Detailed
Analysis & Design of Reinforced Concrete Structures
EDITORIAL
Channeling Tom Hanks

By Ed Quesenberry, S.E.
O ne of the last people I thought I would ever get professional

advice from is Tom Hanks. Then it happened. It was during my
daily lunchtime indulgence of
easily share their thievery with other engineers across the country.
CASE was formed in 1987, and NCSEA and SEI were formed in
1993 and 1996, respectively,
surfing YouTube for a good all well after the AIA (1857)
comedy or anything unrelated and ASCE (1852) were estab-
to structural engineering. I lished by the professionals
stumbled upon a video of Tom
“It all started they represent. Until the last
Hanks’ acceptance speech for with stealing couple of years, these three
the Golden Globe Cecil B. concepts of national organizations have
DeMille Award, which is for operated relatively inde-
outstanding contributions to structural pendently from each other,
the world of entertainment. stability and with each advancing differ-
After the traditional, heart- ent aspects of the structural
felt expression of thanks to proportion engineering profession. In
his family for their support, from the 2019, the profession real-
he summed up the key to his ized that there is something
success by saying, “…you’re a
Ancient to the adage “there is strength
dope if you don’t steal from Egyptians.” in numbers.” As a group, they
everybody you have ever formulated the Joint Vision
worked with.” Hanks went for the Future of Structural
on to name some of the people Engineering, which is a road-
he had unapologetically stolen ideas from during his career, including map for collaboration between each of the 3 national organizations
names such as Streep, Eastwood, Scorsese, and DeNiro. that support our profession. It has taken us a while to get to this
This kernel of wisdom resonated with me, and I immediately began point, but thanks to our willingness and ability to steal from each
assessing my career and, eventually, our entire profession through other, we are working together in new, exciting ways to advance the
this lens. I will save you all from the reflections on my own past but practice of structural engineering.
would like to share a few on our profession. This advancement is going to occur in areas beyond the technical
When it comes to stealing technical knowledge, I do not believe Mr. realm and is going to require a sharp application of our knowledge of
Hanks would classify structural engineers as dopes. The history of appropriation skills to be realized. We could learn a few things from
structural engineering is steeped with the pilfering of ideas, theft of our friends in the architecture industry about promoting the value
mathematical theories, and outright looting of scientific discoveries, all of our profession, perhaps starting with studying the effectiveness of
in the name of advancing the practice and enhancing public safety in their use of social media, www.youtube.com/user/AIANational. We
the built environment. It all started with stealing concepts of structural may want to steal some tactics from the sportswear and automotive
stability and proportion from the Ancient Egyptians. It progressed industries (i.e., Nike and Tesla) about how to position ourselves as
through time with an appropriation of discoveries made by the likes innovators in our industry. We could begin to fill the gaps in struc-
of Archimedes, the Ancient Romans, DaVinci, Galileo, Hooke, and tural engineering education as the hi-tech industry has done for the
Newton. Our profession continued to refine its craft by taking ideas computer science fields-of-study, through an investment of capital,
from Euler, Bernoulli, Bessemer, Freyssinet, and countless others, and materials, and human resources. As I write this, I see the need for our
formulating the foundation of structural analysis and design that we profession to learn from the world’s reaction to the COVID-19 crisis
all still use to this day. Modern-day structural engineers have much as we both advocate for more resilience in the built environment and
more vast libraries of technical knowledge to plunder than our pre- fortify our position in the disaster response community.
decessors did, including the institutions of higher learning, national As you can see, there is plenty of heavy lifting to be done to achieve
professional organizations such as SEI, NCSEA, CASE, and all of the Joint Vision. SEI, CASE, and NCSEA will need to rely on crafty
their respective state-level organizations. Perhaps the most enduring thieving by all of you that read this article and by those that work
victim of our theft is our fellow Structural Engineer, for who among with you to make it a reality. The time has come for you to
us would be where we are today without acquiring knowledge from channel your inner Tom Hanks and steal some great ideas
our mentors and coworkers? It’s an open-and-shut case; Structural for the good of the profession. Don’t be a dope.■
Engineers are accomplished thieves of technical knowledge.
When it comes to banding together on a national scale to secure Ed Quesenberry is the Founding Principal of Equilibrium Engineers LLC and
and solidify the future of our profession, it was not until recently serves on the NCSEA Board of Directors. ([email protected])
that Structural Engineers created national associations to more
STRUCTURE magazine M AY 2 02 0 7
structural INNOVATION
Advancement in Masonry Today
By Peter Roberts
W hat is the future of masonry? Innovation in masonry is critical to meet the growing challenges facing our world. These
advancements will create new markets, foster economic growth, and create new green technology. Over the next
decade, masonry will evolve into several exciting new hybrid technologies and become a critical part of additive manufactur-
ing. Traditional masonry will be expanded into new design and assembly models, using new materials and green technologies.
• Fastbrick Robotics is a start-up out of

Current Trends: Robots Australia. Their Hadrian X masonry
Building Information Modeling for Masonry robot is capable of building all the vertical
(BIM-Masonry) is expected to shape the walls for a building in a fully automated
future of design. Buildings will be much method. The Fastbrick robotic system
more computer-designed, integrated with requires custom block and uses an adhe-
semi-automated and fully automated assembly sive rather than conventional mortar to
methods. Robots are expected to play a signifi- bind the blocks together.
cantly more substantial role in assembly in the • Built Robotics is a company dedicated
coming years. Additive manufacturing (3-D to providing robots for construction.
printing) will be combining mortar deposition While they do not currently provide
with robotic placement of block in an evolving a block or brick laying robot, by
field of masonry-based additive manufacturing. upgrading off-the-shelf heavy equip-
The high efficiency of block manufacturing ment with AI guidance systems, they
provides an affordable, engineered, finished enable machines to operate fully
Concrete Masonry Unit (CMU) with various autonomously.
textures, colors, finishes, and high strength,
with tight dimensional control to be used as
an element in additive manufacturing (unlike
Exoskeletons
3-D printing). CMUs are also made in a con- Masonry is strenuous manual labor, and the
trolled factory environment, as opposed to advances in the arena of exoskeletal tech-
on-site 3-D printing. The low cost of concrete nology are very promising. These external
block will allow it to win on price in the new support systems will enable today’s masons
realm of additive manufacturing. to keep working and attract young people
3-D printing remains unattractive and into the future of the profession. There is a
unappealing when compared to masonry. critical shortage of masons nationally, and
Familiarity with masonry will help in the Semi-Automated Mason (SAM) by Construction Robotics. many of the best are looking toward retire-
adoption of additive manufacturing innova- ment. Several companies are addressing the
tion because it is based on what is known. This challenges created by the demanding nature
is expected to occur slowly at first, as transi- of masonry work through the research and
tions occur from manual to semi-automated development of various exoskeletal and
and fully automated assembly. This transition other external support system technologies.
will affect labor and must address the evolv- Levitate Technologies, Inc. Suit X and Ekso
ing role of labor (e.g., Bricklayers and Allied Bionics are among the many companies pro-
Craftworkers International Union, BAC). viding various degrees of wearable external
Insulated manufactured concrete block by NRG. body support for workers.
New Methods
Advances in automated additive assembly, 3-D printing, robotics, and
Sustainability and Green House Gases
digital design have created a new frontier in masonry innovation. A Masonry innovators have recently found ways for the industry to
few companies are leading the way in this growing realm of advanced become much more carbon efficient. Here are three companies lead-
masonry technology. ing the way on this front.
• Construction Robotics provides the Semi-Automated Mason • bioMASON is one of the exciting recent technology innova-
(SAM) and the mason’s assistant MULE. The SAM unit uses tors in this area. This start-up has found a way to dramatically
additive assembly techniques of placing mortar while a robotic reduce the carbon footprint of Portland cement by using
arm places block and/or brick in the wall. bacteria to grow calcium carbonate crystals to replace the
carbon-intensive process of Portland cement manufacturing
needed to produce standard concrete and concrete block.
• Solidia Technologies is a company developing a lower carbon
footprint than Portland cement for concrete through its
methods of cementing concrete together by using innovative
chemical cements and curing approaches.
• CarbonCure seeks to reduce the carbon footprint by pumping
liquid CO2 into concrete and CMU through the mixing process.
New Applications
The versatility of masonry creates new design possibilities, includ-
ing water storage, septic tanks, ships, boats, vessels, barges, bridges,
seawalls, levees, flood protection infrastructure (culverts, etc.), and
more. The use of CMU’s to build roofs, including arches, domes,
and flying buttresses, is another new application for manufactured
concrete block (this includes work by the author). The use of fiber Masonry dome made with manufactured concrete block by Spherical Block LLC.
reinforced plastic (FRP) rebar creates rust proof reinforced masonry
and concrete, which will become increasingly significant as sea levels impact, fire, and seismic loads, and can be used to mitigate risk
are expected to rise. These new applications for masonry are expected against accidents, natural disasters, and direct attacks. This material
to grow the industry significantly by creating entirely new markets. design prevents bullet penetration, reduces spalling, and can absorb
large amounts of energy without diminishing structural integrity. It
has 20 times the strain capacity of traditional concrete before failure.
New Materials Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) is another newer material that holds
Ductile and elastomeric composite material create masonry appropri- promise due to its light weight and ease of cutting. Aercon provides AAC
ate for blast and ballistic applications, defense applications, hardened material in both blocks and panels. This material is lightweight, can
structures, seismic applications, and severe weather events. ProtectiFlex be for both load-bearing and non-load bearing applications, has good
provides a proprietary technology combining recycled non-biode- acoustic performance, offers better thermal insulation than standard
gradable material, composite fibers, and/or rebar in a cement matrix. concrete, and includes many of the benefits of standard concrete such
This material offers protection against blast, ballistic, forced entry, as fire safety, insect and pest resistance, and durability.
continued on next page
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A concrete panel made with Litracon material. Masonry arches and flying buttresses made with interlocking block by Spherical Block LLC.
Insulated concrete blocks are also relatively new to the marketplace 8) Academicians who dream up new names for old ideas and
and help to maximize the thermal mass benefits of concrete and make a career out of it.
masonry, creating more thermally efficient buildings. NRG Block 9) Designers who do not care about mason productivity.
makes thermally insulated CMU’s which have a serpentine inter- 10) Lack of financial incentive.
locking expanded foam thermal insert within the block. This design This question persists over 30 years later. The author has encountered
creates an insulated block with no direct thermal bridging from the the following responses from industry, trade groups, and end-users
inside of the building to the outside, resulting in a better thermally over the years: “it is a mature technology” and “there is no room for
insulated building envelope. From both inside and outside, the wall improvement after thousands of years of masonry practice.” Much
looks like a conventional block wall. contemporary research looks back in time to understand some of
Light-transmitting or translucent concrete and mortar are yet another humanity’s achievements with masonry (for example, the work done
new addition to the palette of masonry materials. Fiber optic cables are by Jacques Heyman). Old ideas are often presented as “new,” includ-
cast into concrete, allowing light to pass through dense opaque concrete ing, for example, Catalan arches, which originated in the 14th century
and/or mortar, creating visually compelling architectural lighting effects. around Valencia, Spain. Guastavino tile arches from the 19th century
Litracon produces light-conducting concrete material for construction (Catalan arches) are also reexamined and often presented as new. This
applications. The company uses both glass fiber optic elements, with a illustrates novelty versus innovation, as described by Loreto et al. in
more randomized distribution of light-conducting elements cast in con- the ‘adjacent possible’ scheme.
crete, and a plastic light-conducting grid which creates regularly spaced
light-conducting elements, appearing like LED pixels in a concrete grid.
Light Transmitting Mortar is a start-up using technology similar to that
What is the Vision for the Future Today?
found in light-conducting concrete, except that the light-conducting Expect an increase in the automated assembly of buildings, gradu-
fibers are made of plastic. This creates a unique visual effect by allowing ally moving from worker’s exoskeletons to semi-automated systems
mortar joints to transmit light from outside to inside (or vice versa). to fully automated robotic assembly of masonry. Expect the use of
greener materials, new technologies, and methods to reduce carbon
emissions. Expect new designs and forms from the CMU as designers
What was the Vision of the Future 30 Years Ago? continue to utilize its strength and value. Expect stronger, safer, more
This question was posed by a Workshop on Masonry sponsored by energy-efficient, affordable, beautiful masonry buildings.
the National Science Foundation (NSF) to a steering committee led
by Clayford T. Grimm in 1988. Committee members included the
National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA), the Masonry
Prediction
Institute of America (MIA), and Clemson University. Here are the Green masonry will become central to additive manufacturing. It
findings of the Grimm’s steering Committee from 1988, “Why Are is environmentally appropriate, economical, attractive, and builds
There So Few Innovations in Masonry?” on what is known. This prediction calls for a productive future for
1) Tort Law the masonry industry in which successful innovation will occur as
2) Bureaucratic Building Code Process creative ideas exist in a balance between the familiar and the new.■
3) Unfunded Process of Writing Consensus Standards
4) Industry Fragmentation: “Economic pressures for fast The online version of this article contains addition
construction time leave little time for the learning curve information about innovation and sources of innovation.
required by new ideas. The construction industry mindset Please visit www.STRUCTUREmag.org.
supports the status quo.”
5) Research Fragmentation Peter Roberts, President, Spherical Block LLC, has been developing
6) Educators teach what they know (few know masonry) topological manufactured concrete blocks for roofing and complete
7) Designers are reluctant to use masonry structurally because building envelopes for over 30 years. ([email protected])
of poor jobsite quality control
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structural DESIGN
New Digital Tool Simplifies Masonry Design
By Scott Conwell, FAIA, FCSI, LEED AP
T hose familiar with masonry design understand its benefits for building construction: no other material provides the
beauty, strength, durability, design versatility, and sustainable attributes as materials like brick, block, and stone.
Unfortunately, however, younger designers or those new to masonry may be reluctant to consider it due to its perceived
complexity, the overwhelming options of materials and subassemblies, and the lack of a recognized standard for organizing
masonry systems, assemblies, and components. The International Masonry Institute (IMI) is addressing these obstacles by
developing a systematic process for designing masonry walls: complimentary access, digital Wall Builder Tool to facilitate the
process, and a crowdsourced Masonry Wall Systems Library (imiweb.org/wbt) that applies a logical taxonomy. This design
approach quickly and systematically goes through a series of micro-decisions on a small number (eight or fewer) of subas-
semblies of the wall, resulting in a well-informed system design.
blocks of masonry sub-assemblies, then masonry sub-assemblies

The Paradox of Choice are the building blocks of a masonry wall system. Now that we’ve
The Paradox of Choice is a premise put forth by author Barry Schwartz introduced the hierarchy, for the sake of simplicity, we will refer to
in his 2004 book of the same title that states, “the more choices we are a sub-assembly simply as an assembly.
presented with, the more difficult it is to make an informed decision.”
The argument posits that even if the options are of good quality and
if the consumer or user desires many options to make an educated
Masonry Wall Assemblies
decision, too many choices will result in a state of paralysis and very The key to simplifying masonry walls is the delineation of a manage-
likely lead to no decision at all. We encounter decision paralysis in a able number of assemblies. The makeup of any masonry wall system
variety of everyday situations, from choosing a restaurant to dine at, a using this approach, no matter how complex, comprises no more than
movie to watch, or what to do on a Friday evening. For design profes- eight subassemblies. A masonry wall may have fewer than eight, but
sionals making decisions about materials, structure, and components never more than eight assemblies. Not considering the Interior Finish
of a wall, navigating countless options can present the same difficulty. assembly, which is generally out of the engineer’s scope, the primary
Consider your experience dining at a Mexican restaurant, where seven assemblies are identified as follows, listed by location from the
you are presented an extensive menu offering a comprehensive selec- inside of the wall working toward the outside:
tion of platters, small plates, specials, combos, and a la carte items. A. Structure
Deciding what to order with so many options often feels daunting. B. Sheathing*
At a cafeteria-style restaurant, which limits its menu to five basic C. Air/Moisture Barrier*
items, and prompts you to make a series of micro-decisions about the D. Insulation*
ingredients you want in your entrée, ordering dinner is much simpler. E. Drainage*
Similarly, the Wall Builder Tool simplifies the process of designing a F. Attachment*
masonry wall system by guiding the user through a logical sequence G. Cladding*
of components that make up a wall. * indicates optional assembly
Structure
Components, Assemblies,
Structure is the single assembly that every masonry wall requires. In
Wall System and Systems this context, structure refers to the structure of the wall itself, not
Because it comprises so many parts and the framing system of the building, although they may be one in the
Assembly 1 pieces, a masonry wall system can be complex same as in the case of loadbearing masonry. Examples of wall structure
Component 1 and even intimidating, but a little reverse include concrete masonry (reinforced or unreinforced), steel studs,
engineering will make it easier to under- wood studs, or architectural precast concrete panels. In the case of
Component 2 stand. The key is a three-tiered approach a single wythe CMU wall with no exterior cladding and no interior
to every masonry wall system. From the finish, the Structure assembly would be the only assembly of the wall
Assembly 2 granular to the general, there are compo- system; fields B through G would be blank.
nents, sub-assemblies, and finally, the system
Component 1 Sheathing
itself. If masonry components, also known
as masonry materials (for example, a brick, If the wall’s structure is loadbearing or light gauge steel or wood studs,
Component 2
an air barrier, or a wall tie), are the building it would likely require a sheathing over the studs. The sheathing
imparts in-plane rigidity and provides a surface for an air/moisture Once the wall structure and cladding are selected, the Wall Builder
barrier if desired. For adhered veneers, the sheathing also provides a Tool is intelligent when it comes to subsequent options. For example,
surface to affix the adhered veneer cladding. Walls with a solid structure if no cladding is selected, the program knows it to be a single wythe
like CMU, structural clay masonry, precast, or cast-in-place concrete wall and will only offer the choice of “none” for the fields of sheath-
would likely not make use of the Sheathing assembly. ing, attachment, and drainage. If the structure is concrete masonry
or any assembly other than wood studs, then corrugated wall ties will
Air/Moisture Barrier
not be offered as an option. TMS 402, Building Code Requirements
Although its form and location in the wall may vary, the typical for Masonry Structures, does not allow those types of ties with those
location of an air/moisture barrier is directly over the structure or types of backings. If a thin material is selected as cladding, the only
the sheathing. This assembly may take the form of a sheet or fluid- methods of attachment offered are the direct bond materials rather
applied treatment. If the sheathing or the structure already meets than mechanical anchors.
requirements for resistance to air leakage outlined in the energy code
or other applicable codes, a separate air/moisture barrier may not be
required; therefore, this is an optional assembly.
Deliverables
Once the user has completed the systematic process of selecting each
Insulation
of the subassemblies based on project requirements, he or she can
With the trend toward sustainable practices and lower energy costs, the download a PDF graphic of the wall system. This graphic shows each
thermal performance of walls is more important than ever. Therefore, of the eight or fewer assemblies in a three-dimensional exploded view
many walls are designed with insulation that supplements masonry’s presented as in the field of the wall. A descriptive sheet title is auto-
natural thermal mass in the wall’s ability to manage thermal changes. matically generated as well as a unique wall number, both appearing
Insulation comes in varying types, thicknesses, and locations, and is on the drawing sheet. Each time a wall is built online, the program
an important assembly of most masonry walls. pushes that same PDF file to IMI, who curates the user-generated
Wall Systems Library.
Drainage
The PDF graphic depicts only the field of the wall and not any
Drainage walls, cavity walls, or moisture managed walls are walls with special conditions like penetrations, terminations, or accommoda-
some drainage mechanism to collect and divert moisture that infil- tions for movement or moisture. The Wall Builder Tool is intended
trates the exterior cladding and works its way into the wall. Examples to be a design aid in the conceptual or schematic stages of design.
of drainage mechanisms can be as simple as an air space behind the It does not generate complex construction details or a specification
cladding, to more substantial accessories like drainage mats. (IMI has other resources for those), but it does inform the details and
the specifications since the generated walls provide a perfect starting
Attachment
point for the design development phase.
Walls with a cladding assembly over the wall structure, whether the The PDF graphic can also serve as a communication tool among the
cladding is anchored or adhered, require a method to attach or affix the design disciplines and even the client. It is also a useful teaching tool
cladding to the backing. In the case of anchored veneer, the methods of for engineering or architecture students or practicing professionals
attachment generally take the form of veneer anchors or wall ties; rain- who are just becoming conversant with masonry design.
screen systems typically have a more elaborate framing system that ties the
cladding to the structural backing. Adhered veneers may utilize various
forms of bonding mortar, either reinforced with lath or unreinforced.
BIM Ready
Currently, the output is limited to the PDF graphic. However, BIM
Cladding
users can extrapolate the information into a file compatible with
Unless the wall is a single wythe masonry wall, it will have a cladding their BIM platform of choice. The next phase of the Wall Builder
assembly. The cladding, whether full-depth anchored masonry veneer Tool may introduce Dynamo scripts able to generate Revit files of the
or a thin adhered material, is the exterior skin of the wall. The vari- wall designed, so it can immediately be brought into the BIM model.
ety of masonry cladding material, e.g., brick, stone, tile, terra cotta,
architectural block, etc., provides the exterior element of beauty in
a masonry wall.
Standardization
The Wall Builder Tool and the Wall Systems Library are the masonry
Interior Finish
industry’s first step at developing a universally recognized taxonomy
Interior finish is included in the eight subassemblies because it can be an for masonry walls. The large number of combinations of materials
important part of the wall’s design even if not addressed by the engineer. in a masonry wall results in hundreds of thousands of unique walls,
making it difficult to attempt any method of standardization until
now. Because computer logic assigns a wall number based on the
Design Decisions Sequence materials selected in each assembly and is adept at capturing and
Knowing each of the eight assemblies, the analogy of the build-your- cataloging every wall designed using the Wall Builder Tool,
own burrito experience provides a similar hierarchy and progression the masonry industry is one step closer to achieving a stan-
to the decision-making process. The first two decisions in the burrito dard classification system for masonry walls.■
line are the most important, and they are the ones that will inform
the subsequent decisions: the type of protein and the type of wrap. In Scott Conwell, with International Masonry Institute, educates design
designing a wall system, the first decisions are how the wall supports professionals, advances good masonry design, and advocates superior
itself and what it will look like. Subsequent options follow, like the workmanship. Scott is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects (AIA)
insulation (or not), the drainage device (or lack thereof ), and the and the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI). ([email protected])
interior finish.
M AY 2 0 2 0 13
structural PERFORMANCE
The Wilkes-Barre Tornado
Masonry Damage and Modeling
By Heather A. Sustersic, P.E., Michael Kinzel, Ph.D.,
and David Malyszek
O n June 13, 2018, at approximately 10:00 PM,

an EF-2 tornado passed over Wilkes-Barre,
Pennsylvania, causing an estimated $18,000,000
in property damages and severely impacting com-
mercial and retail buildings within its 600-foot-wide
(183 meters) by 2.9-mile-long (4.7 kilometers) path
(Figure 1). Losses to affected buildings ranged from
complete or partial collapse to superficial damage
to the fenestration. Figure 1. Path of Wilkes-Barre tornado, including impacted buildings. Aerial photo from Google maps.
Current commentary provisions in ASCE 7-16, Minimum Design

Loads for Buildings and Other Structures, for determining tornado
Damage Observations
wind pressures on buildings could have predicted some, but not all, Interior access to most of the damaged buildings in Wilkes-Barre was
of the damage observed in the aftermath of the Wilkes-Barre tornado. not available. However, observations and photos taken by the author
There are gaps in our understanding of how building irregularities and during an independent site visit on June 19, 2018, and aerial drone
discontinuities affect design-tornado wind surface pressures, as the video footage available from local online media coverage after the
research to date has primarily focused on regularly shaped (rectangular) event, were analyzed to arrive at the conclusions presented herein.
buildings with gable roof profiles. Much data exists for straight-line Specifically, damage to seven buildings was observed. These are labeled
wind loads on buildings of variable geometry, but companion data for A through F in Figure 1, and described below:
tornado-induced wind loads is lacking. Working across disciplines to • Building A – wood-framed building addition to Building D,
leverage analysis tools used in aerospace and mechanical engineering, with shared masonry bearing walls
but not commonly used in structural engineering, may help to close • Building B – single-story outdoor strip mall, open web steel
the gaps and improve the way we design buildings with irregularities joists, masonry bearing walls
to withstand low-level tornadoes. • Building C – structural steel building, perimeter CMU apron,
This article expands on material previously presented at the 13th cold-formed steel studs walls
North American Masonry Conference, where the authors summa- • Building D – structural steel building, open web steel joists
rized building damage observed in the wake of the Wilkes-Barre • Building E – structural steel building, open web steel joists,
tornado (with particular attention to masonry) and introduced a infill CMU exterior walls
cross-disciplinary modeling technique for predicting tornado wind • Building F – ‘big box’ building, open web steel joists,
loads on buildings. masonry bearing walls
• Building G – pre-engineered metal building
The observed wood-framed addition to Building D labeled Building
A, and the pre-engineered metal building, Building G, experienced
complete structural collapse. Cold-formed steel stud exterior infill
walls at Building C collapsed. Building B and Building F experienced
significant roof and fenestration damage. Building D experienced a
partial collapse of the roof and sidewalls. Building E experienced separa-
tion of the leeward wall from the sidewalls and perimeter roof support.
Masonry Observations
Structural masonry walls performed very well during this tornado. In
the absence of existing building drawings, the author considered the
age, size, spans, and roof heights before concluding that the affected
exterior CMU walls are most likely partially-grouted reinforced bearing
Figure 2. Building D (middle and background) and Building A (foreground) partial and/or shear walls. The author observed no structural masonry wall
collapse of wood and steel framed elements in line with undamaged CMU walls. collapses on any of the affected buildings. There were no wind-borne
debris impact failures observed in masonry elements, and no base
connectivity failures observed in structural masonry.
Figure 2 shows an undamaged CMU wall of Building D in the middle
ground with the collapsed wood-framed addition (Building A) in the
foreground, and significant roof, framing, and sidewall damage to the
structural steel portion of Building D in the background. At Building
C, the CMU apron beneath the cold-formed steel stud exterior walls
remained unscathed while the cold-formed framing above was destroyed.
Unreinforced, architectural masonry, such as the decorative oversized
piers at a sporting goods store main entrance, experienced failures
ranging from stepped cracks in the mortar joints to partial collapse.
Even though the tornado passed directly over Building B, destroying
75% of the roof and causing significant damage to the storefront and
soffit, the rear CMU wall of the building was undamaged (Figure 3,
top and bottom right). Unreinforced masonry column wraps at the
front of Building B experienced shear failures, some of which twisted
Figure 3. Building B overall damage; typical front column wrap shear failure in
at their base and translated laterally 2 to 3 inches (Figure 3, bottom
mortar joint (left); back wall of building undamaged (right). Aerial photo from 570
left) with mid-height torsional shear failures as well; others had more
Drone footage.
subtle shear stress failure limited to the mortar joints. Roof joist-to-
masonry wall connections remained intact. coefficients. This is a conservative and safe approach to design but may
be over-conservative for low-level tornadoes. ASCE 7-16 Commentary
recommendations are primarily based on physical laboratory testing
Designing Buildings for Tornadoes of simplified, scaled models, which could limit applicability for non-
Most engineers do not design buildings to withstand tornado wind rectangular geometries.
events without realizing that the wind speeds in lower level (EF-0 to
EF-2) tornadoes are comparable to Category 1 to 3 hurricanes. When
engineers do move beyond risk acceptance to design for tornadoes,
New Cross-Disciplinary Modeling Approach
a sacrificial building approach is often used, following FEMA and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is a well-established numerical
NIST recommendations for designated safe rooms and using ASCE approach for fluid dynamics used extensively within aerospace and
7-16 Commentary, Section C26.14, to determine design pressure mechanical engineering, as well as meteorological fields. CFD has
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M AY 2 0 2 0 15
by steel tube columns with masonry wraps spaced
at 17 feet on-center maximum. Parapet heights
vary from 2 feet to 9 feet on the sides and front of
the building. The building was modeled as a solid,
fixed mass with no openings or deformation capa-
bility. Structure deformation using FSI is outside
the scope of this preliminary model; however, a
deeper investigation is planned for the future. The
building model is then considered in the context
of a CFD model with an EF-2 tornado (tangential
speeds ~120 miles per hour) approaching Building
B at 40 miles per hour. Overall views from the
model, including the main view and blowups of
the windward/leeward views of the building, are
Figure 4. Building B subjected to simulated tornado (center); Blowup view of windward side (upper left); shown in Figure 4. The grey features in the flow
Blowup view of leeward side (upper right). highlight the tornado. Here the tornado itself, its
tentacles, and complicated wakes forming around
the building can all be observed. All surfaces are
colored by surface pressure, and lines on the main
plot indicate the local velocity direction on sur-
faces. With the model, loading details (from both
pressure and viscous shear forces) are evaluated on
each square inch of the building, providing highly
detailed loading information that can supplement
design. An animation of this model is available at
https://bit.ly/34iF8Ln. Figure 5 illustrates the
loading character on the building at first tornado
contact. Note that the loads do not appear as pure
constant pressure loading. Instead, the loading is
complex and variable, with low pressures after each
corner leading to a “bottle opener” effect applied
Figure 5. Surface pressure contour plot of Building B at the first contact of a simulated tornado. to the roof, causing localized high pressures. This
is consistent with the pattern of soffit, roof, and
thrived on the recent trend in the expansion of computing power. column wrap damage observed on the real building after the real
CFD uses numerical methods to approximately solve the notoriously tornado. Building designs that can consider these complex loadings
difficult-to-solve Navier-Stokes equations, which reflect the govern- during atmospheric events, such as tornadoes, are where CFD and
ing equations of fluid dynamics: conservation of mass, energy, and FSI can enable next-generation, tornado-resistant designs.
momentum for each particle in a time-space computing domain.
Such solutions provide highly detailed flow-field information and New Tools for Designing
loading details associated with building shapes that can supplement
structural design. One interdisciplinary approach would be through for Tornadoes
coupling CFD to computational structural dynamics solvers yielding Current guidance for engineers to determine design tornado wind
a fully coupled fluid-structure interaction (FSI) solution. These CFD- pressures on buildings is based on tests of enclosed buildings with
based FSI methods describe an emerging engineering toolset that is regular geometries that do not include provisions for extended soffits or
finding applications in biological, marine, and aerospace engineering other irregular building configurations. CFD is a powerful, established
fields. They are even being utilized for atmospheric-scale engineering tool for non-building engineering disciplines that can model realistic,
objects, such as wind turbines and solar panels. These engineering translating tornadoes interacting with modeled buildings,
applications, considering FSI coupled to CFD as the approach, reduce opening the aperture for predicting tornado wind loads on
assumptions and can pinpoint failure modes; hence, enabling design buildings with complex, irregular geometry.■
improvements over to full-scale models as well as enabling the reduc-
tion of engineering factors of safety. The overall goal of these CFD
Heather Sustersic is a Project Engineer with Providence Engineering
models is to expand understanding of full-scale tornadoes, without
Corporation and former adjunct faculty member of the Architectural
building physical models.
Engineering Department at Penn State University. She currently serves
as a voting member of the TMS 402/602 Structural Members and
Preliminary Model and Observations Reinforcement and Connectors Subcommittees. ([email protected])
To demonstrate the feasibility of using CFD (in the context of the Michael Kinzel is an Assistant Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace
commercial tool Star-CCM+) in a structural engineering application, Engineering at the University of Central Florida. ([email protected])
the authors modeled Building B, a 70-foot-wide by 300-foot-total- David Malyszek is an undergraduate student in Aerospace Engineering at
length building, with a 155-degree elbow approximately at mid-length the University of Central Florida. ([email protected])
and a mean roof height of 18 feet. A front extended soffit is supported
emerging TECHNOLOGY
A Structure as an Electric Battery?
Concrete Block Serves as Electrical Batteries and Sensors
By Peter Roberts
A new class of material has become the focus of much research

in the field of cement science and concrete design. Geopolymers
were initially named by French materials scientist Joseph Davidovits in
DER systems exist as a separate component from the building which
they serve and occupy a significant footprint within the building. In
other words, they are in the way of building occupants. The concrete
1979, who attributed this term to the amorphous to semi-crystalline block system places batteries within the structural wall of the building,
tri-dimensional alumino-silicates that can be formed at low tem- out of the way of building occupants.
perature and short time by alkali reaction with naturally occurring This innovation is expected to have a significant impact on efficiency
alumino-silicate solid materials – quite a mouthful but a precise and safety of buildings, on the efficiency and resiliency of the power
representation of the chemistry involved. grid, on reducing greenhouse gases produced by OPC, of finding a
Geopolymers create the potential for providing strong, robust, valuable use for fly ash waste, and in providing safe, secure, resilient
energy-efficient concrete buildings, where the concrete structure itself homes and buildings. By creating affordable, easy-to-use concrete
acts as an electrical battery to store energy and deliver power. These blocks as a distributed component of the evolving new smart
novel batteries can be charged by solar panels, wind turbines, or other power grid, customer acceptance is expected to be easy and
renewable energy. The high thermal mass of the building’s masonry adoption rapid for a large market segment.■
shell provides passive operation capabilities because the masonry
acts as a thermal sink. This heat sink can also be actively controlled Peter Roberts, President, Spherical Block LLC, has been developing
with power delivered by the electrical storage capacity of these novel topological manufactured concrete block for roofing and complete building
masonry batteries in the event of power loss from the grid. This envelopes for over 30 years. ([email protected])
arrangement provides better management of excess energy by feed-
ing to the grid during peak demands, which has the double benefit
of providing increased resiliency and improved energy efficiency.
This technology is featured in the use of novel potassium geopolymeric
(KGP) cementitious material to make concrete block and configure
AutoTight®
this masonry as an energy storage receptacle and a self-sensing struc- TIGHTER CONNECTIONS
tural material. Geopolymers are being explored as a replacement for
Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), whose manufacture is a contributor BETTER PERFORMANCE
to greenhouse gases. KGP’s piezoresistive properties also allow it to
detect stress within a structure for real-time diagnostics. KGP exhibits
good ionic conductivity, which can be exploited for electrical storage

and power. It has high strength, excellent high-temperature resistance,
thermal stability, durability, and is easy to manufacture. This technology
holds the potential to address both partial and complete power loss.
Once fully developed and tuned, this concept could save up to 100%
of a building’s energy needs.
Because geopolymers use fly ash as part of their activation process,

this novel material can help provide a valuable role for the vast waste
repositories of fly ash created by burning coal to fuel electrical pow-
erplants. If fully developed, tuned, and implemented, geopolymers
could help turn the liability of fly ash deposits into a valued com-
modity in geopolymer production.
Electrical batteries currently serve as a component of some
Distributed Energy Resource (DER) systems that are deployed to
help provide a more robust energy distribution system. DER is a
tactic used increasingly across the U.S. to provide increased resilience
for buildings in the face of widespread electrical outages, which
have become more frequent and prevalent in the wake of severe
weather events. For example, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration report “2017 U.S. billion-dollar weather and climate ZERO LOOSENESS
disasters: a historic year in context” listed 16 separate billion-dollar
extreme weather event disasters in the U.S. resulting in power loss to PH: (360) 378-9484 – WWW.COMMINSMFG.COM
significant portions of various communities. Currently, battery-based
STRUCTURE magazine M AY 2020 17

Masonry
Madness
By Cathy Inglis and Jonathon Turley, S.E.
Figure 1. Curved masonry façade.
B rick is one of the simplest and the most versatile materials,

one of the most ubiquitous, and often the least regarded. It
is a fundamental staple among building materials, where the small
Specially designed brick ties bridge a nominal 3-inch (75mm) cavity
between the stud wall and the masonry skin. The ties brace the wall
out-of-plane, transferring the horizontal load imparted by the masonry
scale and modularity yield enormous potential. Traditional masonry wall. The masonry skin itself is constructed from 5 unique brick units
is typified by rectilinear building forms, repetitive laying patterns, and developed to achieve the architectural and structural requirements.
two-dimensional flatness. However, the humble brick is not limited These were laid meticulously on-site, brick-by-brick. The masonry
to traditional, and its form can be fluid and sculptural. skin is vertically supported at each level by stainless steel shelf plates
The use of brick by renowned architect Frank Gehry challenges the which are bolted to the adjacent concrete floor structure. The concrete
norm with the design of the University of Technology Sydney’s (UTS) floor and shelf plate also curve in plan to match the façade geometry.
Dr. Chau Chak Wing Building, School of Business. This arrangement resembles a traditional brick veneer system but
This building has been called everything from a treehouse, to a functions very differently due to the distinctive geometry.
squashed brown paper bag, to a masterpiece. Whatever description
applied to it, the Frank Gehry-designed Dr Chau Chak Wing Building
is now one of Australia’s iconic buildings.
The Brick-Tie System
The defining characteristic of this building is its unique masonry Traditional vertical masonry veneer systems resist lateral loads, such as
façade, which contorts and twists in both vertical and horizontal wind and seismic, through a tie system transferring loads to the support
directions for the full height of the 13-story structure (Figure 1). Each system. The ties provide little or no contribution to gravity load resistance,
brick course snakes along a horizontal plane while vertical curvature which is transferred downward through the plane of masonry veneer.
is achieved by corbelling each progressive course outward or inward. This is not the case for the Dr. Chau Chak Wing Building. Each brick
Gehry chose brick for the exterior to reflect the colonial brick heritage is offset from the brick below to create a wall that appears to lean in
of the surrounding area, curving it to achieve the unique desired form. and out. The offset reaches as much as 1.7 inches (42mm), leaving only
Brickwork, at a complexity never seen before, creates a façade that 2.7 inches (68mm) of mortar bed joint for the standard 4.3-inch-wide
appears to have movement as the horizontal courses of bricks corbel (110mm) brick. Inclinations of this magnitude create significant hori-
to articulate the building's organic shape. zontal loads due to the masonry’s weight, which must be carried by the
Although the construction methodology and arrangement of struc- brick ties. This, in combination with plan curvature, creates complex load
tural elements are like conventional brick façade walls, the wall patterns and concentrations. There is little guidance in the standards on
inclinations and curvatures create structural engineering challenges how to deal with this type of loading. It fundamentally goes against the
that are not typically encountered in masonry façade construction. way that masonry is designed and conventionally constructed. When
This drove the development of a custom structural system that engineering the structural system, the authors had to remind themselves
included custom brick units, ties, mortar, and construction methods that traditional design and construction techniques could not be applied.
– all designed specifically to cope with the distinctive engineering The ties become critical to the stability of the brick façade. They will
challenges of the project. take significant compression where the brickwork slopes in and tension
where the brickwork slopes out (Figure 3).
The engineers initially explored the possibility of
The Façade System using a traditional metal tie system for the brick
The overall façade system consists of several façade construction; however, off-the-shelf ties
interconnected components. were found to be inadequate. They are typically
The innermost element is a steel stud wall that embedded in mortar joints and, in this applica-
spans between the concrete floors. Each stud is a tion, would not be satisfactory to resist the loads
curved, T-shaped profile that follows the curva- imposed by the brick eccentricities. It was clear that
ture with the masonry skin in front of it. Since a more robust brick-and-tie system was required.
there is no repetition in the masonry façade, In searching for a solution, inspiration was taken
every stud wall panel is unique (Figure 2). from a traditional stone cladding support system in
The stud wall is clad with metal sheeting and which every stone is supported individually using
a waterproof membrane. Figure 2. CAD model of curved steel stud wall. ties that lock into a groove in the stone edge. The
question was: could there be a tie that engaged with
the bricks in a similar way?
It is common for brick units to have a localized
depression (also known as a frog) in the top of the
brick to help with mortar bond. A modification of
the frog created a continual channel where a tie could
be placed. This would provide an internal surface
to which the tie could engage and achieve a much
higher load-carrying capacity as opposed to merely
placing the tie in a horizontal mortar bed joint.
The tie would consist of a threaded rod with a
square nut that sat in this channel. The brick tie
system adopted is shown in Figure 4.
The use of a threaded tie allowed it to be adjusted
in and out to suit the channel location, which varied Figure 3. Brick ties in compression when the wall leans in (left) and ties in tension when the wall leans out (right).
significantly as the façade contorted in plan.
This system was adopted for approximately 35% of the façade area. The final solution was a unique structural system developed in col-
The remaining 65% consisted primarily of walls with fewer eccentrici- laboration with AECOM Ltd, the façade structural engineer; ARUP,
ties. For these areas, a conventional style of masonry tie was adopted the structural engineers; Lendlease Ltd, the contractor; and Austral
since the imposed forces did not require the high tolerance provided Bricks, the brick manufacturer.
by the threaded type tie.
A critical aspect of the design was the vertical spacing of the ties. The
goal was to eliminate tension in the mortar joints due to the self-weight
The Brickwork
of the wall and thus align with a fundamental design philosophy that Gehry Partners specified an American manufactured brick with 22
masonry veneer is not intended to resist constant tensile forces, in custom shapes to create the unique brick façade. Many trials were
line with the Australian and International Standards. undertaken to match the brick, at UTS’s request, to manufacture
At maximum corbel, over one-third of the brick overhangs the brick an equivalent brick in Australia. Collaboration between the brick
below. If two bricks are laid on top of each other at this corbel without manufacturer and the project architects changed the brick to a stan-
any mortar, it is unstable and will collapse under its own weight. The dard Australian size (230 x 110 x 76mm), reducing the final number
stability of the brickwork relies on mortar to resist tension. By locating of custom brick shapes to five. Dry press brick manufacturing was
a tie at every course in these areas, this localized instability is addressed selected as that method produces solid bricks and intricate shapes. The
and the tension in the mortar is eliminated. The spacing was increased corbelled nature of the façade meant all brick surfaces needed “face”
to every 4th course where the corbel was less severe. finish, as they would all be visible.
The wall tie is fixed to the stud backup with a special assembly that There were 380,000 bricks with the 5 custom shapes produced
allows the tie to be adjusted during construction. The tie could be at Austral Bricks Bowral Dry Press Plant just south of Sydney. The
moved up and down and rotated relative to the sloping substrate. custom bricks include the centered channel, the offset channel, the
The tie could, therefore, be aligned to project horizontally into the K brick, the L brick (Figure 5), and a solid brick without a channel.
brick mortar joints. The K brick has an angled protrusion to create bends and shadowing
appearing as though it has been offset from the standard coursing.
The L brick is 5.5 inches (140mm) wide and installed at the shelf
Temporary Stability angles to reduce the size
The question of localized stability under self-weight highlighted of the control joint from
another challenge for the design team: the temporary stability of the 2 inches to 1 inch (50 to
wall during construction. 25mm) and improve the
An off-the-shelf brick tie system was used for early mock panels but appearance, with the extra
did not provide adequate temporary support of the bricks. They would width giving sufficient
not engage with the bricks until the mortar had hardened. In areas of bearing on the angle.
Figure 5. Left to right: centered rebate brick,
significant corbel, it was found that only a few brick courses could be laid
K brick, offset rebate brick, and L brick.
at a time before the wall began to collapse. The bricklayers were forced to Structural
wait until the mortar had begun to
set before proceeding. This not only Analysis
affected the efficiency of the bricklay- Detailed finite element
ers but also may have compromised analysis was carried out
the mortar bond. This highlighted to determine the force in
the requirement for a temporary the ties and stresses in the
restraint to the brickwork. masonry under various
To address this, an additional load cases (Figure 6). The
component was added to the values determined from
system in the form of a small analysis were later com- Figure 6. Finite element model of brickwork
square nut to be used in areas of pared to the capacities panel and associated steel substrate (left) and
high corbel. This can be seen in measured from laboratory wall stress contour output (right).
Figure 4. The custom brick tie system. Figure 4 on the inside brick edge. testing. continued on next page
M AY 2 0 2 0 19
There was a particular focus on the most intricate brickwork panels a wheelbarrow and a shovel
to identify critical areas and complex behavior. are used to measure out the
various mortar ingredients.
Brick cleaning posed
Laboratory Testing another challenge onsite, as
Throughout the design phase of the system, a series of laboratory tests were typical cleaning acids were
carried out to determine the performance and properties of the various not allowed on the project.
components. It was essential to demonstrate the structural adequacy of The suggestion to use a
this completely new system. The brick tie pullout capacity and mortar commercial vinegar solution
bond properties were key to confirming the adequacy of the system. was offered up from a retired
Two full-size mock panels were constructed to evaluate construc- bricklayer that had used this
tability and calibrate the analysis models (Figure 7 ). Strain gauges method before the introduc-
were fixed to the brick ties, and the panel was tested to failure using tion of hydrochloric acid. Figure 7. Full-size mockup panels before load testing.
horizontal and vertical hydraulic jacks. Through the application
of the latest design techniques, the design team pushed the boundar-
ies of what can be achieved with masonry, one of the oldest building
Construction materials still in use. The problem was broken down and rebuilt
The unique nature of the brickwork created many challenges on-site, from first principles. Unique and innovative engineering solutions
with bricklaying production as low as 50 bricks per man per day in allowed the reinvention of the masonry façade and the realization
very complex areas. of Frank Gehry’s vision.■
Ensuring consistency of the mortar was crucial. Oven-dried sand
was used to enable better control of the water content of the mix. The online version of this article contains additional
The sand/cement mix was prepared in premixed bags to reduce the graphics. Please visit www.STRUCTUREmag.org.
chance of error and inconsistency when mixing on-site.
Additives were also premixed in the water in an on-site reservoir to reduce
Cathy Inglis is General Manager Technical & Innovation, Brickworks.
variability between batches. This was trialed as part of mix design testing
([email protected])
to ensure the process did not adversely affect the mortar properties. The
brick packs were dipped in water for a specified time before laying to Jonathon Turley is a Senior Structural Engineer at Aurecon. He led the
reduce the suction and ensure that all bricks had the same water absorp- structural design of the Dr Chau Chak Wing Building facade at AECOM.
([email protected])
tion. This was in stark contrast to traditional brickwork construction where
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A Massive Beam
TO SPAN A NEW AUDITORIUM
Central Kitsap High School and Middle School Auditorium
By Casey Moore, E.I.T., and Thomas M. Corcoran, P.E., S.E.
Aerial view of Central Kitsap High School and Middle School project during construction Courtesy of Skanska USA.
T he new Central Kitsap High School and Middle School campus

was celebrated with a grand opening ceremony in October
2019. Located west of Seattle in Silverdale, Washington, the campus
to framing, a 22-foot beam depth. The 24-inch-thick (nominal) by
13-foot-long support piers to each side of the beam provided the
gravity support for the beam as well as the primary shear walls of
houses the new three-story, 325,000-square-foot building that com- the structure.
bines and modernizes the community’s high school and middle
school. The new structure sits at the center of the 52-acre site where
the school will accommodate up to 2,100 students from grades 6 to
Design Parameters
12 with two gymnasiums and an auditorium that both students and Various dead and live loads were applied to the beam from the mul-
the community will use. The former middle and high school build- tiple building levels being supported, the theater rigging equipment
ings were both located on the site and have been demolished to make installed inside of the fly loft, and the catwalks hung to the roof struc-
room for the multiple playfields and parking lots. ture. Along with the self-weight dead load of the beam, an additional
Steel was the primary structural material utilized for the academic self-weight of 22 feet of CMU wall supported immediately above the
portion of the new facility, utilizing special moment frames for the beam was directly applied without the reduction that arching action
lateral force-resisting system. Steel was also used for the gravity sys- would provide. Worst case loading conditions of uniform snow load
tems of the gymnasiums and auditorium but, in these spaces, special or snow drifting at the multiple roof levels supported by the beam
reinforced masonry shear walls were instead used for the lateral system. were also considered. In total, the ultimate load applied to the beam
For all the masonry walls of the project, fully grouted 12-inch nominal using load combinations from ASCE 7-10, Minimum Design Loads for
concrete masonry units were specified. Buildings and Other Structures, was calculated to be about 13.0 kips/ft.
With the beam parameters set at 22-feet-deep by 12-inch-thick (nomi-
nal) and 48 feet long, TMS 402, Building Code Requirements for Masonry
The Auditorium Structures, was followed to determine the design approach to the beam.
The 900-seat Auditorium is a central feature of the facility, centered After calculating the effective length of the beam, an effective span-to-
between the high school and middle school wings of the campus. The depth ratio, leff /dv, of approximately 2.5 was determined. The code put
audience faces a 48-foot-wide by 20-foot-high proscenium opening in
a concrete masonry wall where musical and theatrical performances by
students and community members will be given. There is an orchestra
pit below the stage to provide space for live music with the shows at
the school. Overhead catwalks and a 60-foot-high fly loft space provide
for state-of-the-art lighting, sound, and prop equipment to be used.
CMU was the chosen building material to span across the proscenium
opening and provide support for the roof structure above rather than
other traditional materials such as steel or precast concrete lintels. For
this design feature, it was decided that CMU would provide the best
aesthetic to the exposed wall and would reduce cost by eliminating
the need for multiple trades to work simultaneously in the same area.
With the auditorium roof framing into the CMU wall at an eleva-
tion of 42 feet, the depth of the beam that spans across the opening
was designed for the full height between the top of the proscenium Labeled elevation of the CMU wall and beam.
the flexural design into the deep beam code section when fixed-end
boundary conditions were applied, or to standard beam design when
viewed as a simple span beam. Flexural reinforcement was designed
for each case, but TMS 402, Section 5.2.2.3, required that the flexural
reinforcement be detailed such that the reinforcement was distributed
in the tension zones of the beam equal to half of the beam depth.
Although the required beam flexural reinforcement was determined,
it was not the controlling factor for the longitudinal reinforcement; the
out-of-plane load case would control. A vertical two-span condition
from the top of the proscenium opening to the top of the fly loft roof,
with mid support at the auditorium roof, was used to more accurately
analyze the internal forces of the wall and beam. An equivalent spring
reaction was placed at the top of the proscenium opening, with the
stiffness of the spring calculated from the stiffness of the horizontal Elevation of the CMS wall and beam during construction. Approximately 40 feet
span of the bottom 11 feet of the beam between the support piers. of 60 feet completed.
By using this method, the out-of-plane force against the wall at the
critical location at the bottom of the beam was reduced from 60 psf to
Construction Challenges
50 psf. Fixed-end boundary conditions with the 48-foot span between The primary challenge for the contractor in constructing this large
supports were then used to design the reinforcement required for the beam was providing adequate support while the masons were laying the
out-of-plane flexure. With consideration of the in-plane strength, blocks. With the orchestra pit located directly below the proscenium,
in-plane detailing, and out-of-plane strength requirements, the final an engineer working with the mason subcontractor designed a two-
design for the longitudinal reinforcing bars was U.S. #5 size at 8-inches level shoring system. Although the shoring was removed before the
on-center for the beam depth. erection of the steel began, it was designed to hold the full self-weight
Shear design of the beam closely followed the procedure laid out in of the beam, CMU wall above the beam, and steel roof framing. This
TMS 402, Section 9.3.4.1.2. The nominal shear capacity of the beam gave the general contractor flexibility on the removal date once the
from the contributions of masonry shear strength and supplemental wall’s grout strengthened. Grout lifts of 5 feet 4 inches were used to
shear reinforcement was compared to the code maximum based on the minimize the number of lifts that were required to be poured.
beam’s shear-span ratio, Mu/(Vudv). U.S. #5 reinforcing bars at 8 inches
on-center along the beam were also used for the shear reinforcement of
the beam. The beam’s shear design resulted in a demand-capacity ratio
Creative Beam Design
of approximately 0.50, with the code-maximum shear capacity values The Central Kitsap High School and Middle School Replacement
as the controlling capacity. project was an extensive campus overhaul that brought the two schools
The TMS paper, The Size Effect in Reinforced Masonry, by S. Sarhat and into a single facility and provided amenities that would be accessible
E. Sherwood, was studied to determine how the size effect phenomena of to the community. The facility’s feature of the auditorium and the
a deep beam could affect the load-carrying capacity of the beam. As the architect’s desire to maintain the same material along the wall allowed
effective beam depth increases, cracks along the tension face of the beam CMU to be utilized to span across large openings rather than other
increase in width and spacing. This causes shear failure of the masonry at traditional building materials. The 48-foot-long CMU beam was a
lower shear stresses due to reduced mechanical interlocking of the aggre- unique design challenge for the engineering team, demanding creative
gate. It was discussed between engineering team members that, due to thinking and pushing the boundaries of beam design.■
the amount of longitudinal reinforcement and shear reinforcement along
the length of the beam, longitudinal cracks located in the tension face The online version of this article contains references.
would be kept relatively small and would not impact the shear strength Please visit www.STRUCTUREmag.org.
of the beam. Therefore, the size effect would be negligible.
Casey Moore is a Structural EIT at Integrus Architecture, P.S.,
an architectural and engineering firm with offices in Seattle and
Spokane, WA. He performed the design and detailing for the
masonry structure of the Central Kitsap school project.
Thomas M. Corcoran is a Structural Engineering Principal at Integrus
Architecture, P.S., and is the Engineer of Record for the Central
Kitsap school project. He is on several TMS subcommittees, serves
on TMS 402/602, and serves as a Zone 1 Representative to the
TMS Board of Directors.
Project Team
Owner: Central Kitsap School District, Silverdale, WA
Structural Engineers: Integrus Architecture, Seattle, WA
Architect: Integrus Architecture, Seattle, WA
General Contractor: Skanska USA, Seattle, WA
Mason: Keystone Masonry, Yelm, WA
Masonry Supplier: Mutual Materials, Bellevue, WA
Finished interior view of the auditorium and CMU wall.
M AY 2 0 2 0 23
structural SYSTEMS
Reinforced Masonry Shear Wall Systems
Seismic Design and Performance
By P. Benson Shing, Ph.D., Jianyu Cheng, and Andreas Koutras, Ph.D.
W hile they meet the safety requirement of building codes, special reinforced masonry wall systems designed according
to current codes and practice may not perform in the manner consistent with the design expectation in the event
of a major earthquake. This stems from the fact that seismic design provisions focus primarily on strength and reinforce-
ment details, without sufficient consideration of the actual behavior of a wall system under severe seismic actions. To have a
consistent level of safety and performance, a performance-based design approach may be followed to ensure that the struc-
tural system performs predictably. This article summarizes some recent research findings that may help this design process.
Shear walls are the main seismic force-resisting elements in a rein- One justification for this design approach is that the absence of the
forced masonry building. Depending on the aspect ratio, reinforcement coupling moments results in a lower lateral resistance of the walls, and
details, and loading and boundary conditions, masonry shear walls ignoring these effects would, therefore, produce a more conservative
can exhibit one of several, or a combination of, failure mechanisms design. However, this is true only if the resulting overstrength intro-
when subjected to in-plane lateral loading. Slender cantilever walls duced by the diaphragm coupling is high enough to compensate for the
are expected to have relatively ductile flexural behavior, while walls reduction in wall ductility should the wall become shear dominated.
with a low shear-span ratio (Mu /(Vu dv)) tend to exhibit brittle shear Despite the issues mentioned above, special reinforced masonry
behavior dominated by diagonal cracking. However, walls with very shear wall systems mostly meet the safety expectation of the codes
low shear-span ratios can develop base sliding in lieu of diagonal according to recent studies (Stavridis et al. 2016; FEMA 2020). This
cracking. The masonry building code, TMS 402-16 (TMS 2016), has can be attributed to the overstrength in a typical masonry building or
provisions for evaluating the strength of a reinforced masonry wall the presence of other gravity load-carrying elements in the structural
governed by each of these mechanisms, and reinforcing requirements system, which can enhance the displacement capacity of the system
intended to prevent brittle behavior. by providing an alternative load path.
For high seismic regions (Seismic Design Category D or above), Masonry buildings often have significantly more structural walls than
reinforced masonry walls must comply with the special wall require- what is needed to resist seismic actions because of their dual function as
ments. These require the shear capacity design to prohibit brittle architectural elements, such as exterior building envelopes and interior
shear behavior and impose an upper limit on the amount of verti- partitions. This is especially true for low-rise masonry buildings. The
cal reinforcement to ensure adequate flexural ductility if special unintended coupling action of the horizontal diaphragms is another
boundary element requirements are not met. However, despite the source of overstrength. This, however, depends on the out-of-plane
requirements mentioned above, a special wall designed according to bending stiffness of the diaphragms and the strength of the diaphragm-
current codes may not necessarily develop flexure-dominated behav- to-wall connectors. The study by Stavridis el al. (2016) has shown
ior. The wall may have failure governed by diagonal shear cracking that a wall system with horizontal diaphragms constructed of precast
when subjected to severe seismic actions. Perforated walls and walls hollow-core planks with cast-in-place concrete topping could have
in low-rise masonry buildings often have low shear-span ratios such an overstrength factor of 4. The high shear strength of the walls was
that their flexural resistance is much higher than the shear strength. mainly attributed to the horizontal reinforcement required to satisfy
Such design is permitted by the code as long as the shear strength of the prescriptive requirement of the code for special walls.
the wall component is at least 2.5 times the shear demand, Vu. Hence, Furthermore, studies have shown that a reinforced masonry build-
with the R factor equal to 5 and an expected overstrength factor of ing with shear-dominated walls can develop a displacement capacity
2.5, the shear strength of a special load-bearing reinforced masonry substantially higher than what has been observed in quasi-static
shear wall so designed can be lower than the shear demand of the tests conducted on planar wall segments. This can be attributed to
Maximum Considered Earthquake (MCE), which is 1.5 times the the presence of wall flanges or gravity frames, which can carry the
intensity of the design earthquake. In that situation, diagonal shear additional gravity load after the webs of the walls have suffered severe
failure is likely to occur. shear failure, as discussed later in this article.
Another factor that makes reinforced masonry walls prone to develop-
ing shear-dominated behavior is the coupling effect of the horizontal
diaphragms in a building. The coupling moments exerted by the hori-
Performance Assessments
zontal diaphragms could significantly reduce the effective shear-span ASCE/SEI 41-17, Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit of Existing Buildings,
ratio of a wall. This effect is often under-estimated or neglected in the standard for assessing the seismic performance of existing build-
masonry wall design primarily due to the lack of a reliable analytical ings, considers multiple performance levels, and permits nonlinear
method to capture the behavior of the diaphragms or the diaphragm- analysis procedures. However, it has the same drawback as the design
to-wall connections. As a result, the actual shear-span ratio of a wall codes for new buildings by focusing on the performance of structural
could be significantly lower than what has been assumed in design. components rather than that of the system. In the standard, reinforced
masonry walls are classified as
either flexure controlled or
shear controlled. For nonlinear
static or dynamic analyses, it
specifies modeling parameters
to define the in-plane lateral
force versus displacement
backbone curves that repre-
sent the behavior of reinforced
masonry wall components.
The shape of the backbone
curve and the maximum
deformations permitted for a
wall component depend on the
expected failure mechanism,
and for the flexure-controlled Figure 1. Comparison of nonlinear backbone curves constructed with ASCE 41 and new parameters proposed by Cheng
mechanism, on-the-wall aspect and Shing (2018) to experimental data.
ratio, applied axial compres-
sion, and the total amount of reinforcement. Even though these in a substantial story-drift value that may not be practical with the
curves are intended for assessing the performance of existing build- stringent drift limits of ASCE/SEI 7-16, Minimum Design Loads for
ings, they may be adopted for the displacement-based design of new Buildings and Other Structures.
buildings or for evaluating the performance of a code-based design.
Nevertheless, the nonlinear modeling parameters in the standard have
not been updated for many years. Recent studies have shown that
Seismic Performance
these parameters tend to substantially under-estimate the displace- To investigate the displacement capacity of shear-dominated reinforced
ment capacity of a wall component or a wall system. masonry wall systems and the influence of wall flanges and planar
Based on quasi-static wall test data, Cheng and Shing (2018) have walls perpendicular to the direction of shaking (out-of-plane walls)
proposed a set of new modeling recommendations and parameters on the seismic performance of a wall system, shake-table tests were
for reinforced masonry walls. The study has shown that wall cracking conducted on two full-scale, single-story, fully grouted, reinforced
should be taken into consideration to estimate the elastic lateral stiff- masonry wall specimens to the verge of collapse. Each specimen
ness of a wall. The value given by the theoretical formula recommended had two T-walls as the seismic force-resisting elements and a stiff
in ASCE/SEI 41-17 based on an uncracked section can significantly concrete roof diaphragm. The second specimen had six additional
overestimate the stiffness observed in a wall test. Figure 1 compares planar walls perpendicular to the direction of shaking. The design
the backbone curves constructed with the modeling parameters conformed to the special wall requirements of TMS 402-16. Each
specified in ASCE/SEI 41-17, as well as those proposed in the study specimen was subjected to a sequence of earthquake ground motions
mentioned above, to the experimental data for a flexure-dominated with gradually increasing intensities. Specimen 2 on the shake table
planar wall and a shear-dominated one. is shown in Figure 2a.
While the proposed backbone curves provide a good correlation Figure 2b shows the base shear versus roof drift ratio curves obtained
with the wall test data, a recent study discussed below has shown that from the tests. The roof drift ratio is the roof displacement divided by
they would still under-estimate the displacement capacity of a wall the wall height of 235 mm (8 feet). The behavior of the T-walls was
system by a considerable amount. Furthermore, it should be noted initially dominated by flexure; shear deformation became significant
that, for the design of new reinforced masonry walls, the use of the when the roof drift ratio reached 1%. Failure was eventually dominated
stiffness formula proposed by Cheng and Shing (2018) could result by shear, as shown in Figure 3 (page 26 ). The maximum roof drift
Figure 2. Reinforced masonry wall system (Specimen 2) tested on the outdoor shake table at the University of California, San Diego.
M AY 2 0 2 0 25
Figure 3. Damage in the T-walls of Specimen 2 at different roof drift levels.
ratio reached was 13.4%. The structure did not collapse. At the end Figure 3 shows the damage states of the T-walls in Specimen 2 when
of the tests, the webs of the T-walls had lost a significant amount of the roof drift level reached 2%, 5%, and 10%, respectively. The
masonry due to spalling, and the residual roof drift was close to the damage was relatively moderate and appeared to be easily repairable at
maximum reached in the tests. At that stage, the roof weight was a 2% roof drift. At 5% roof drift, the webs of the T-walls had widely
essentially carried by the wall flanges as well as the out-of-plane walls. opened diagonal cracks but without significant masonry spalling. At
Figure 2b also shows the backbone curve constructed with the 10% roof drift, severe damage was incurred in the webs.
parameters recommended by Cheng and Shing (2018). In that cal-
culation, it was assumed that the lateral resistance was provided by
the T-walls only, and the shear strength of the T-walls was calculated
Recommendations for Design
with the formula given in TMS 402-16. The shear-span ratio (Mu/ A reinforced masonry wall system designed according to current code
(Vu dv)) of the T-walls was taken to be 0.86, assuming fixed-fixed end provisions could exhibit shear-dominated behavior in a significant
conditions because of the stiff roof diaphragm. It was assumed that seismic event. The displacement capacity and post-peak behavior of
the axial force in the T-walls was due to the gravity load only, with such a wall system depend on several factors, such as the presence
the axial force introduced by the horizontal load ignored. This is or absence of wall flanges or gravity frames, the P-Δ effect of the
a reasonable assumption because the increase of the axial force in gravity load, and the severity of wall damage induced in each of
one wall due to the coupling effect of the roof diagonal is offset by the two horizontal directions. If the flanges of the walls or walls in
a decrease in the other wall. It can be seen that the TMS formula one direction have not been severely damaged or gravity frames are
provides a good estimate. Most importantly, it can be observed that present in the building system, they can carry the additional gravity
the specimen exhibited a much higher displacement capacity and a load when the webs of the walls have suffered severe diagonal shear
gentler post-peak load degradation than the proposed backbone curve. failure. Such systems can sustain a much larger drift level than what
Similar observations were obtained for Specimen 1. has been observed from planar wall segment tests. However, damage
The higher displacement capacity and gentler load degradation to the walls can be severe when the story drift approaches 5% or
exhibited by the shake-table test specimens can be attributed to a more. To ensure safety and limit damage, it is essential to determine
couple of factors. One is the loading protocol. In quasi-static tests, the potential failure mechanism and the associate drift capacity.
wall segments were typically subjected to a large number of high- The possibility of shear-dominated wall behavior can be checked by
amplitude displacement cycles, which could be beyond what could either elastic analysis or limit analysis with the consideration of the
have been experienced in an earthquake. The second is the presence coupling moments of the horizontal diaphragms. If shear-dominated
of wall flanges and/or out-of-plane walls, which would carry the behavior is likely, sufficient shear reinforcement should be provided
vertical load after the webs had been severely damaged in the tests. in the walls to control the opening of diagonal cracks and provide
In quasi-static tests of planar wall segments, this alternative load path sufficient overstrength to limit the story drift to desired levels for both
did not exist. However, it should be pointed out that the displacement the design earthquake and the MCE. The sufficiency of the residual
capacity depends on the P-Δ effect of the gravity load as well as the wall strength to counteract the P-Δ effect should also be considered.
residual lateral resistance of the walls. The Limit Design Method in Appendix C of TMS 402-16 may also be
Furthermore, it should be noted that the shake-table tests reported used to design and reinforce special walls whose strengths are limited
here had only uni-axial ground motions. In an earthquake, a by shear. However, the deformation limits imposed by this method
building is subjected to forces in multiple axes. In that case, walls are very low compared to the test data discussed above.■
in different directions could suffer damage, and the displacement
capacity of the structure would depend on the degree of damage The online version of this article contains references.
in each direction. The damage would also depend on the presence Please visit www.STRUCTUREmag.org.
or absence of gravity columns that could carry additional gravity
load after the vertical load-carrying capacity of the walls has been
depleted. Further shake-table tests are needed to investigate the P. Benson Shing is a Professor of Structural Engineering at UC San Diego.
effect of bi-axial horizontal ground motions. However, a recent ([email protected])
numerical study using refined finite element models (Koutras Jianyu Cheng is a doctoral candidate and graduate student researcher in the
2019; FEMA 2020) has shown that reinforced masonry archetype Department of Structural Engineering at UC San Diego. ([email protected])
buildings with shear-dominated walls and steel gravity frames could Andreas Koutras is a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Structural
develop story drift ratios exceeding 10 to 15% without collapsing Engineering at UC San Diego. ([email protected])
when subjected to bi-axial motions.
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INSIGHTS
The Shape of Things to Come
The Use of Shape to Drive Innovation
By Mark Weber, AIA, Jim Kirk, P.E., S.E., and Jillian Weber, Ph.D.
T he construction industry often thinks

of structures as limited by the materi-
als available to build them. Those materials
The Current
State
– concrete, steel, wood, and so on – have dif- Nowhere are the benefits
ferent characteristics and strengths. Building of focusing first on shape
components and, importantly, their shapes greater than within the
tend to develop based on the natural strengths masonry industry. The The shape of an airfoil facilitates lift.
and weaknesses of each of these materials. traditional Concrete
An Innovative System
However, to be genuinely innovative and Masonry Unit (CMU) has a familiar form
expand the bounds of design abilities, we and is a reliable building system, one with It is imperative to understand dry-stack
need to think more explicitly about the ways many strong characteristics. In a 2015 masonry to understand how innovative shape
that shape itself has utility and function. survey conducted by the National Concrete within a masonry system can shift the para-
For instance, because of its shape, a ball rolls. Masonry Association (NCMA) about market digm. CMU dry-stack masonry systems, those
For that ball to roll, its form is initially more perceptions, over 500 key industry decision- laid without mortar, are still relatively new
important than the materials from which it is makers ranked “concrete masonry as the and are often touted for their efficiency and
made. Only once it is understood that we want best material among all trends.” They noted cost-effectiveness. However, many mortarless
the ball to perform in a particular way can we CMU’s strengths in durability, performance, systems simply adapt a traditional block to a
then find materials that will allow us to enable and resiliency. Yet, that same group of deci- dry-stack scenario. One alternative discussed in
that function practically. In the same way, an sion-makers acknowledged that masonry’s the following paragraphs is a system that fea-
airfoil’s shape makes flight possible. The mate- market share is at a plateau, if not slightly tures a tight tolerance unit and new shapes to
rial a plane is made from matters very little if decreasing. Why would masonry lose ground compliment installation and utility. By placing
the form does not first facilitate lift. or stagnate despite its recognized strengths? precision into the masonry unit, faster installa-
In today’s construction industry, materials are In two words, cost and convenience. tion is possible with less labor skills. This gives
usually the drivers of what a shape becomes. It CMU consistently scored near the bottom the mason a tool to win back work on the entire
is possible to shift that paradigm, using shape as amongst building materials in the speed of wall assembly, rather than remaining relegated
the primary catalyst for utility. Can we look to construction and initial costs. Because ini- to portions of the veneer. The conversation to
already-existent materials within the masonry tial installation costs of CMU can be higher follow will consider how this alternative form,
world and reshape them to keep them relevant? than other materials and the speed of con- which uses the BlockUp construction system as
BlockUp, a new dry-stack building system struction is perceived to be slower, builders its model, can help dry-stack become a viable
that has given much thought to the form of tend towards cheaper, faster materials. These and accepted building method.
masonry units, does just that and provides a materials, however, are typically less durable The creation of modified block shapes for
blueprint for the masonry industry as it con- and can lead to higher maintenance costs. dry-stack systems can produce inventive solu-
siders how shape can transform a building. The question, then, is how to overcome the tions to the problems outlined in the NCMA
short-term objec- survey. There are four features of the system
tions to concrete mentioned above that set its shape apart from
block construction traditional CMU and lead to increased utility:
so that its long-term lapping profiles, recessed webs, shouldered
benefits can continue cells, and vertically aligned webs. With all this
to be harnessed. The modification, though, the block still main-
answer lies in shape. tains a familiar format. These shape features
The masonry indus- make more efficient masonry systems while
try needs to look to enhancing the traditional benefits of concrete
the shape of inno- masonry. New block forms within this model
vative, dry-stack answer two guiding questions: how do we take
construction sys- valuable materials and keep them relevant, and
tems that use a form how do we rethink the relationship between
to shorten installa- form and function in building materials?
tion and lower labor
costs, while also
improving upon the
Shape Facilitates Function
BlockUp promotes lapping installation, Shouldered and aligned cores
easy placement of reinforcing bar, and give confidence for grouting and traditional strengths Just as traditional CMU features a stretcher
intuitive construction. reinforcement. of concrete block. block, the dry-stack system outlined here also
uses a stretcher as its workhorse, though with the web is recessed to a depth that forms
some distinct differences in the unit’s shape and usable horizontal chase ways. Reinforcing bars
speed of assembly. The form-related features of can be placed in these indentations, creating
this system, such as uniquely shaped webs and bond beams at any course of a structure. For
profiles, are found within that stretcher, pro- instance, the stretcher can be used to form
ducing a multi-functional unit with expanded lintels, eliminating the need for special lintel
utility. Thus, the stretcher block, because of its blocks and steel angles. This shape provides
shape, provides masons the ability to create a flexibility to reinforce a building in many
building in less time and with added flexibility. ways, as required by code or structural design.
Within this system, much thought has been While important, horizontal chase ways
given to how CMU’s shape affects the laying formed from recessed webs are not the only
of a base course; the result is a quick and more opportunity for reinforcement within this
precise process for masons. Creating a distinc- system design. When set in a running bond
tive, long-length leveling component addresses pattern, the stretcher units result in vertically
the need to level the first course of a structure aligned webs. These webs align from top to
accurately and quickly. Three stretchers are bottom, which is often not the case with tradi-
bonded together to form a single four-foot- tional CMU. They create continuous vertically
long unit. Threaded, mechanical levelers are stacked cores, enabling masons to install and
The placement of shear inserts add to the system’s ductility.
then placed in the bottom block recess at oppo- grout reinforcing bars for entire wall heights
site ends. This bottom recess is a shape design easily. Within this particular dry-stack blue- lends to a masonry system may prove espe-
that receives the levelers and then permits print, grout can be placed confidently in any of cially valuable to designers when seismic and
masons to swiftly and efficiently level the entire the cells because there is a clear path of travel. high wind areas demand special attention.
base course with the turn of a screwdriver. These vertically aligned webs also create a space
After a level and plumb base course is for a shimming device to be inserted. A curv-
established and grouted, rapid assembly of ing, inclined-plane shim can be placed in the
The Path Forward
a structure can begin. Lapping profiles on recess between the aligned webs and rotated The BlockUp system is a model for the shape
both the bed and head joints of the stretcher to move the height of the block above into features outlined here; these new block forms
make quick construction possible. Stretcher alignment. This adjustment, which is made produce innumerable benefits for masons and
units have a raised profile on the inner half within the flow of installation, assures that the the industry alike, which stem from the shape
of the face shell head that is received by the blocks are flush and level; this trues the block, of both individual units and the ways that
overlap from the block above. The overlap- preventing inaccuracies in later courses. they work together as a whole. Within this
ping contours self-align the blocks as they The ability to plan and control where grout model, a block’s shape is not different solely
are stacked. Installers can simply lay a block is placed during installation is significant. for the sake of standing apart from traditional
on the course below and slide it into place. Shouldered cells accept a grout stop, which CMU; it is purposeful. Form builds upon
The shape of the stretcher unit allows for in turn closes a vertical void and partitions and amplifies the positive characteristics of
reduced stress on the mason and much faster the block horizontally to limit the grout flow. the materials from which units are made.
installation. With a decrease in the time of Reinforcing bars can be placed horizontally Innovations in CMU’s shape should spur
construction, the cost of a true masonry wall in the recessed webs with grout confined to a conversation about how to derive utility
system is significantly improved due primarily only that course. Now greater flexibility exists. through form and reinvigorate the masonry
to utility derived from shape. If a mason is assembling an interior wall and industry, keeping concrete units relevant.
Lapping unit profiles not only serve to speed does not want the extra weight, cells can be Currently, masonry design codes refer to and
installation but also to improve weathering left without grout. provide values for systems that use mortar.
performance by pushing water away from the Finally, consideration of shape will help However, The Masonry Society (TMS) is
interior of the block. The stretcher’s lapping to address a common objection to concrete drafting guidelines for dry-stack masonry.
joints resist the intrusion of water and direct masonry – lack of ductility. In a time when This publication will provide guidance for the
it to the exterior, similar to traditional lapped hurricanes and earthquakes seem ever more strength values that building communities can
shingles. Mortar is porous, and it is generally frequent, using shape to adjust for strong apply to engineer reinforcing in walls. It will
accepted that water will penetrate a traditional forces has the potential to save money and normalize the values used for dry-stack masonry.
mortared wall. When that happens, myriad lives. An innovative metallic shear insert can Significantly, this illustrates that dry-stack is
steps are then taken to direct water back to provide added ductility to an inherently brit- becoming a more relevant part of the industry.
the outside of the unit. In this system, these tle structural system. This insert can be placed Dry-stack systems offer real value – flexibil-
reactive measures are rendered unnecessary. at horizontal joints throughout the structure. ity and speed of construction – and
Masons can then turn their focus to struc- Upon initial joint failure, the inserts act as should be a robust part of the building
tural reinforcement, as water penetration a network of ductile connections between industry, now and in the future.■
is a lesser concern. Stretcher units contain many smaller structural pieces. They hold the
Mark Weber is with Max Block Development
recessed webs, a component of the block’s masonry structure together while distributing
and is the original developer of the BlockUp
shape that broadens the modes by which energy throughout the wall. The inserts resist
dry-stack masonry system. ([email protected])
structures can be strengthened. Unless the shear forces that flow at each horizontal course
traditional unit is manufactured as a bond above the shear friction threshold. Combined Jim Kirk has been a Professional Structural
beam, the CMU web is flush with the top with vertical reinforcement, the shear inserts Engineer in Indiana for over thirty years.
of the face shells and needs to be cut out create a resilient structural matrix. The aggre- Jillian Weber has a Ph.D. in Literature.
to lay reinforcing bar. In this system logic, gation of strength and elasticity that the insert
M AY 2 0 2 0 29
business PRACTICES
Inviting and Keeping Women in Engineering
By Jennifer Anderson
T here is much talk about how to engage

more women to join the engineering
field. From elementary schools to universities,
career advisors, teachers, and special interest
groups are encouraging girls and women to
consider and stay in engineering. Why do
we want to add more women to the ranks of
engineering? Their unique perspective is key
to the success of the industry.
While both men and women can learn
and apply science the same way, men and
women bring different mindsets and aspects
to a project team. For the sake of providing
your clients with a versatile skillset and well-
rounded perspective, it is important to have
both men and women as equal contributors to
a project team. Despite the best efforts of our
educational institutions, the fact is there are 2) Continue the conversation with girls. another existing program, look for ways for
still fewer women than men in the engineer- Encouraging adolescents and teens to your firm to support programs that aim to
ing fields. So, it is more important than ever to stay interested in engineering requires attract women (and marginalized groups)
encourage women into engineering positions. more than one conversation. This concept into engineering. You can support with
Their diverse talents make a difference to the needs to be understood and endorsed by monetary donations, employee volunteer-
team, department, and firm. Below are some teachers, school advisors, family mem- ing, by encouraging adjunct teaching, or
ideas on how to invite more women into the bers, adult friends of parents, community use of your facilities for learning and ongo-
engineering field as well as help keep more groups, and more. Again, keep engaging ing education.
women in engineering. the girls in your life. Be that uncle who In both inviting and keeping women in engi-
gives her presents that are engineering neering, current female and male engineers
Inviting Women into the related. Take her to meet your friends have a responsibility to continue to speak up
at work and show her what an engineer and share ideas with their managers, their
Engineering Profession does. Many girls see other women doing alma-maters, their current firm, and with
1) Start with girls. Early introduction of girls jobs that are not engineering related, so professional organizations, all of whom are
to engineering is the best way to get them it is harder for them to relate. seeking more diversity in engineering roles.
to realize that they can have a career in Make it a priority to communicate and help to
engineering. Many women are not exposed Keeping Women in bring about the necessary changes for firms to
to engineering career options until they be profitable and provide excellent workplaces
are in high school and are, therefore, at a Engineering for everyone.
disadvantage to their male counterparts. 1) Be real about mothers’ needs. Women In the end, workplaces will continue to
For many girls, much of the information need time off for maternity leave (ideally, change and evolve. Look at how your firm is
they receive early on is about traditionally the dad’s need time off for paternity leave engaging with the community at large because
female-focused careers, e.g., nursing and too) because it leads to healthier babies, even though you cannot hire that 7-year-old
teaching. Studies show that girls also feel less post-partum issues, and more satisfied girl today, you can in about 15 years. If you are
less confident around math. Ganley and women in the workplace. Regardless of the an individual contributor, a manager, or the
Lubienski’s article on gender differences family dynamic, often one parent will stay owner of a firm, seek opportunities to invite
in math, published in Teaching Children home to help raise children through their and keep more women in engineering. The
Mathematics (https://bit.ly/39Qo1RY), pre-school years. During that time, some profession, your firm, your clients,
highlights that girls are performing the women feel like they are losing ground and the community need the effort
same as boys on math tests. Still, the with their careers because they choose to and will benefit from it.■
girls have a hard time relating to careers spend time with their littles. If you are
associated with strong math and science in management, seek ways to keep those Born into a family of engineers but focusing on
knowledge. So, if you have a young girl in SAHM (stay at home moms) engaged with the people side of engineering, Jen Anderson
your life, talk to her about engineering and your firm by having real conversations has over 21 years of helping leaders build
engage her with age-appropriate activities before going on maternity leave. stronger careers for themselves and their teams.
to show her that she can do science, math, 2) Support programs. Whether starting an (www.CareerCoachJen.com)
and technology-related activities. initiative at your local schools or supporting
30 STRUCTURE magazine M AY 2 0 2 0
NCSEA
NCSEA News
National Council of Structural Engineers Associations
OSEA Participates in E-Week 2020: Bridge Breaking Competition
News from the National Council of Structural Engineers Associations
During E-Week, the Oklahoma Structural Engineers Association's Young Members Group had the opportunity
to volunteer during the Bridge Breaking Contest at the Science Museum of Oklahoma. Students competed
in three different categories: structural efficiency, load capacity, and aesthetics. The YMG judged the load
testing and aesthetics, but also had the opportunity, after bridge failure, to speak to students on the failure
mechanism of the design and explain how the bridge could be improved. Additionally, volunteers were able
to walk around and speak about what structural engineers do and why the profession is important to the
public. OSEA was able to participate in this great opportunity to educate young people and to encourage
them to learn more about the profession, thanks in part to the 2019 NCSEA grant they received.
Have you Considered a Diamond Review of your Education Offerings?

NCSEA has recently enhanced its Diamond Review Program, which was created to evaluate the quality of in-person and online continuing
education courses, seminars, and conferences geared toward structural engineers. After the education content is evaluated and Diamond
Review Approved, structural engineer attendees are eligible to receive PDHs in all 50 U.S. states. Diamond Review approval is one of the
key values behind NCSEA's high-quality, expert-led webinar program, which has only grown in success since adopting the process. The
Diamond Review Program can be beneficial to the following groups:
• SUPPLIERS to the structural engineering profession so they can provide their structural engineer customers technical education!
• SEAs (and other associations) that have annual conferences, monthly meetings, and webinars to deliver structural engineers a tangible
value for their membership in your SEA!
To submit education to be Diamond Reviewed, visit www.ncsea.com. When submitting a course, you will need to have the following
information available:
• A detailed outline of the program content,
• The presentation materials,
• The qualifications of the speaker(s), and
• The number of hours of continuing education credit to be awarded upon completion of the course.
Visit www.ncsea.com to learn more about this benefit to you and your members.
2020 NCSEA Awards Open for Submissions

NCSEA's Excellence in Structural Engineering Awards annually NCSEA's Special Awards are presented to members who have
highlight some of the best examples of structural engineering ingenu- provided outstanding service and commitment to the association
ity throughout the world. Projects are judged on innovative design, and to the structural engineering field. Special Awards are granted
engineering achievement, and creativity. The awards are presented to worthy recipients in four different categories:
to multiple winners with an outstanding winner chosen for each of • NCSEA Service Award, presented to an individual who has
the following categories: worked for the betterment of NCSEA to a degree that is beyond
• New Buildings < $30 Million the norm of volunteerism.
• New Buildings $30 Million to $80 Million • Robert Cornforth Award, presented to an individual for
• New Buildings $80 Million to $200 Million exceptional dedication and service to an SEA and the profession.
• New Buildings Over $200 Million • Susan M. Frey NCSEA Educator Award, presented to an
individual who has a genuine interest in, and extraordinary talent
• New Bridges or Transportation Structures
for, effective instruction for practicing structural engineers.
• Forensic/Renovation/Retrofit/Rehabilitation Structures < $20 Million
• James Delahay Award, presented (at the recommendation of
• Forensic/Renovation/Retrofit/Rehabilitation Structures > $20 Million the NCSEA Code Advisory Committee) to recognize outstanding
• Other Structures individual contributions towards the development of building
Entries are due on July 14, 2020. Structural engineers and structural codes and standards.
engineering firms are encouraged to enter. More information about the Visit www.ncsea.com to submit your nomination for the Service,
awards and the submission process can be found on www.ncsea.com. Robert Cornforth or Susan M. Frey Awards by June 23, 2020.
NCSEA Webinars Register by visiting www.ncsea.com

May 14, 2020 Resiliency of Reinforced Hollow Structural Clay Unit Masonry Construction
Steven Judd, S.E., Interstate Brick and H.C. Muddox
May 26, 2020 Resilience and What it Means to the Structural Engineer
Kevin Moore, P.E., S.E., SECB, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc.
Courses award 1.5 hours of Diamond Review-approved continuing education after the completion of a quiz.
M AY 2 02 0 31
SEI Update News of the Structural Engineering Institute of ASCE
Advancing the Profession
A Message from the SEI President

I hope you and yours are well and successfully navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
As we continue to experience remote work and social distancing, it is inspiring to watch and engage with our communities as we pull
together to meet current challenges. Most of us have shifted from in-person staff and client meetings to virtual business meetings, video chats,
and even virtual social events. I have witnessed the collaboration of university professors sharing ideas on digital course delivery, leaders of
competing engineering companies helping each other deal with impacts on their businesses, and engineering firms making creative use of
technology to service critical infrastructure projects while keeping their employees safe.
Please maintain your incredible resilience and continue to apply your leadership in creative, innovative ways in your practice and com-
munity. Thanks for all you do for the SEI community. And first and foremost, stay safe and healthy.
Glenn R. Bell, P.E., S.E., C.Eng, F.SEI, F.ASCE, SEI President
Don’t Miss Resources

• View the free April 7 Structures 2020 Virtual Event with presentations on Generations@Work, Confidential Reporting on Structural
Safety CROSS-US, and Performance-Based Design at https://bit.ly/39XLuk8
• Ask Me Anything with SEI and Industry Leaders: Access at https://collaborate.asce.org/integratedstructures/home
• #SEILive chats on SEI Instagram
• Confidential Reporting on Structural Safety – CROSS-US first newsletter and reports available at www.cross-us.org.
• Structures Congress 2020 Proceedings are available for free access at ascelibrary.org through October 2.
• Remember to take advantage of your member benefit: 10 ASCE Free PDHs.
SEI Online
SEI News Read the latest at www.asce.org/SEINews

SEI Standards Visit www.asce.org/SEIStandards to view ASCE 7 development cycle
Errata SEI Standards Supplements and Errata including ASCE 7. See www.asce.org/SEI-Errata.
If you would like to submit errata, contact Jon Esslinger at [email protected].
CASE in Point News of the Coalition of American Structural Engineers
Did you know?
CASE has tools to help firms deal with a wide variety of business scenarios. Whether your firm needs to establish new procedures or simply
update established programs, CASE has the tools you need!
If your firm needs to update its current Risk Management Program or establish a program within the firm, the following CASE docu-
ments can guide employees:
962-H: National Practice Guideline on Project and Business Risk Management Tool 2-4: Project Risk Management Plan
Tool 1-1: Create a Culture for Managing Risks and Preventing Claims Tool 3-1: A Risk Management Program Planning Structure
Tool 1-2: Developing a Culture of Quality Tool 3-4: Project Work Plan Templates
Tool 2-1: A Risk Evaluation Checklist Tool 5-6: Lesson Learned
CASE Contracts Currently Available

CASE #1 – An Agreement for the Provision of Limited Professional Services
CASE #2 – An Agreement Between Client and Structural Engineer of Record for Professional Services
CASE #3 – An Agreement Between Owner and Structural Engineer as Prime Design Professional
CASE Updated Tools Available

CASE 5-1: A Guide to the Practice of Structural Engineering CASE 9-2: Quality Assurance Plan
This tool is intended to teach structural engineers the business of This tool provides guidance to the structural engineering professional
being a consulting structural engineer and things they may not for developing a comprehensive, detailed Quality Assurance Plan
have learned in college. While the target audience for this tool is suitable for their firm. High-quality client service – from project
the young engineer with 0-3 years of experience, it also serves as a initiation through construction completion – is critical to both project
useful reminder for engineers of any age or experience. The Guide success and maintaining key client relationships. Elements of ensuring
also contains a test to measure how much was learned and retained. quality service include:
Other sections deal with getting and starting projects, schematic • Client and project ownership by the individuals responsible
design, design development, construction documents, third party for the project
review, contractor selection/project pricing/delivery methods, • Continual staff education including both leadership and
construction administration, project accounting and billing, and technical skill development
professional ethics. • Firm-wide standard of care
Primary updates to 5-1 included changes in technology that • Quality control process with a complete communication loop
the engineer uses today and keeping the document current with • Written Quality Assurance Plan
best business practices.
NEW – CASE Guideline and Commentary on ASCE Wind

Design Provisions
The purpose of this Guideline is to provide guidance and commentary on the wind provisions of ASCE/SEI 7 and provide a brief overview
of the changes from ASCE/SEI 7-05 to ASCE/SEI 7-10 and again from ASCE/SEI 7-10 to ASCE/SEI 7-16.
The most recent revisions to the Standard have restructured the format of its wind design procedures and added step-by-step checklists
for each procedure to help clarify how to use its provisions. The Standard is continually updating and editing its procedures based on the
latest research, data, and studies.
You can purchase these and the other Risk Management Tools at www.acec.org/bookstore.
Follow ACEC Coalitions on Twitter – @ACECCoalitions.

M AY 2 0 2 0 33
structural FORUM
Celebrate the Structural Engineering Community
By Chad S. Mitchell, P.E., S.E.
F or the longest time, I avoided following to win projects. We should use that com- senior to choose civil engineering as their
other structural engineering firms on petition to make the structural engineering college major.
LinkedIn or liking their posts. As the President profession better, not just to win projects. Retention studies repeatedly find that, more
of the Structural Engineers Association of Let’s enjoy the challenge. than money or working conditions, people who
Colorado, I have seen the positive impact Demonstrating mutual respect not only stay with their jobs are motivated by feeling like
of what engineers can do when they come drives us to improve our profession, but it a part of something larger than themselves. By
together. But for some reason, I was still hesi- also improves the perception of our profession connecting to others within the community,
tant to celebrate the achievements of my peers in the public eye. Few members of the public we are not just elevating our practice; we are
publicly. Why? Mostly to avoid a percep- truly understand what we do. If you are like re-energizing ourselves and encouraging the
tion by my supervisors and coworkers that I me, when you first started your career, your bright young people who were drawn to our
was thinking about leaving my current firm. family and friends thought you were an archi- profession to stay in our profession.
Sitting at my desk a couple of months ago, How do we foster collaboration, encour-
on my first day back at work after attend- age mutual respect, and drive visibility?
ing the National Council for Structural
The more positive exposure we receive, Connect on LinkedIn with peers, not just
Engineers Associations (NCSEA) Summit, the more the public will understand clients. When a competitor posts a suc-
I quietly proclaimed, “This stops today!!” cess story, like or comment, or better yet,
No longer will I refrain from following the value that we provide. reach out a congratulatory hand. If you
or liking other firms for fear of how it do not have the bandwidth or expertise
might look. The week I spent in Anaheim, to handle a project, refer the client to a
CA, at the Summit was magical and not just tect. Even now, it is difficult to explain to the competitor you respect. Join one of your local
because I met Micky and Minnie. Witnessing average person what it is we do and how our structural engineering organizations; in addi-
the community of structural engineers at a profession protects life safety. We are only in tion to CEUs, you can grow a network of
national level was truly transformational. the news when a building or bridge collapses. peers, mentors, and, dare I say, friends that
We should see each other for what we are: a Greater positive exposure will pave our way to all share a common goal and inspire you to
community, not just competitors. Building a greater respect and perception in the public eye. contribute outside of deadlines. Volunteer at
community driven by mutual respect allows One of the issues preventing us from receiv- a local school to help kids get excited about
us to commend each other’s achievements and ing greater public exposure is that we, as the bones of the structure – let them see just
applauds a profession that brings excellent engineers, lean towards being introverts. I how cool our jobs really are.
value and expertise to the public. By celebrat- know it is not always true, but it is close. How will you explain to your employer why
ing each other more, we will pave the path for I always say the best way to tell if a person you are connected with your competitors
the public to celebrate us as well. is an engineer is if they are looking at their on LinkedIn and giving them kudos? Bring
The concept of mutual respect is best dem- shoes when they are talking to you. If they information back to your employer with fresh
onstrated after competitive sporting events. are a structural engineer, they will be look- ideas, code updates, resources, etc., and they
It is common for athletes to meet at midfield ing up at the structure above. Introverts do will soon see the value of being plugged into
and embrace each other, even to exchange not typically draw praise to themselves. They our professional community.
jerseys after competing at the highest levels. try and avoid attention. This is why we are Will everyone operate in good faith? Probably
One of my favorite parts of watching the not celebrated for the real value we provide not. But I have the impression that, in gen-
final round of PGA tournaments on a Sunday the public in our profession. What we do is eral, our profession is filled with good, ethical
afternoon is to see the other professional equally as amazing as what the architects do. people. Reach out – you just may be surprised.
golfers waiting just off the green on the final The public just does not know it yet. We need Challenge makes us better. Mutual respect
hole to congratulate the winner. Professional to ensure that the public sees us as a skilled and collaboration drive innovation. Increased
athletes compete at the highest levels on the profession, not as a commodity. visibility for our profession benefits all of us.
field, but they also celebrate each other after Since it can be difficult to praise ourselves, Make that LinkedIn connection; join that pro-
the competition is complete. They respect the we need to celebrate each other more. The fessional committee; volunteer at your local
hard work it takes to compete. They enjoy the more positive exposure we receive, the more school. You will be more fulfilled and, maybe
challenge of competition, and the challenge the public will understand the value that we someday, structural engineers will
makes them better. provide. When we work together, we have give firefighters and doctors a run
As engineers, we can also thrive on the more visibility. Celebrate each other!! for their money in the pre-K crowd.■
challenge. We should challenge each other When asking a preschooler what they want
to increase the quality of our product. With to be when they grow up, their response Chad S. Mitchell is an Associate at S.A. Miro,
higher quality comes higher value. There should not be firefighter or doctor, but a struc- Inc. in Denver, Colorado, and President of the
will always be a competitive side within our tural engineer. Well, we might not knock off Structural Engineers Association of Colorado
community. Whether it is new techniques or those lofty professions as top preschooler’s (SEAC). ([email protected])
high-quality service, we continually compete career goals, but we may inspire a high school
34 STRUCTURE magazine M AY 2 0 2 0
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STRUCTURE
MAY 2020
Bonus Content
TECHNOLOGY
Small Unmanned Aerial Systems
Assistance for Building Façade Assessment
By Peter M. Babaian, P.E., S.E., and Sean D. Gordon
B uilding owners need to routinely assess the condition of their building

façades for many reasons, including compliance with façade inspection
ordinances, to check for deterioration, to monitor known deterioration, and
to plan for maintenance and capital repairs. Traditional methods for façade
inspection include ground-based visual observations and hands-on inspection
using various means of access, which both have limitations. Access to building
façades for hands-on inspection can range from straightforward to very complex.
The more complexity involved in accessing the façade, the higher the costs, and
the less likely that building owners will routinely assess the conditions of their
building façades, potentially allowing deterioration to occur unchecked. Figure 1. Masonry Bell Tower.
Visual ground-based assessment may be a suitable technique for low- work. Before September 2016, operators performing commercial
rise buildings that do not feature significant articulation in the façade. work required a Section 333 exemption, which mandated posses-
Taller buildings result in a greater angle of incidence for ground-based sion of a pilot’s license. After September 2016, the FAA enacted
viewing or require the viewer to be further away from the building, Part 107. The necessary Part 107 certification is acquired by fee and
requiring visual aids such as binoculars. Distance and limited viewing examination. Upon completion, the certificate holder is authorized to
angles can make the detection of potential issues difficult. Low-rise perform work in Class G airspace, uncontrolled airspace outside the
buildings featuring significant articulation also may not be suitable controlled airspace of airports, and below controlled airspace where
for visual review. The articulation can hide significant deterioration commercial aircraft travel. Currently, the FAA requires recertification
that cannot be seen due to the angle of incidence, distance, or the every 24 months.
need to be above the item in question.
Hands-on inspection is the “gold standard” for detecting deteriora-
tion and potential hazards. Temporary access for inspection, such as
Operation Process
aerial lifts, suspended staging, or industrial rope access, is required. A Small Unmanned Aerial System (sUAS) operation can generally be
However, access methods have practical constraints and can be costly. broken down into four stages: establish the scope of survey, operation
Aerial lifts are an efficient and low-cost way to access building façades, planning, on-site operation, and postprocessing/data deliverable.
but require open, supportive, and level ground around the building, There are several items and steps to consider within these stages. The
and are limited in height. Suspended staging is generally not limited following is not a complete list. Operators may find some aspects to
by height or ground access, but can be costly to set up, requires tie- be more critical than others.
back anchors safety lines, and cannot cover a wide area very quickly.
Establish Scope of Drone Survey
Industrial rope access is also not generally limited by height or ground
space. Still, it requires more staff to cover the same amount of area For a successful drone survey, the survey team and drone operator
and more tieback anchor availability for safety lines. should understand the project, the survey goals, obstacles that may
Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS or Drone) technology affect the survey, and expected deliverables. Asking the right questions
offers a new means of efficiently documenting building façade con- can help the project team optimize the survey.
ditions with less time and cost, but with limitations that are specific The most crucial consideration when proposing a drone operation is
to the technology itself. Drone technology can be a suitable way to the airspace restrictions, if any, at the project site. The FAA provides
complement visual building façade condition assessments or as a tool an ArcGIS UAS Map that, when entering an address, will provide
for planning hands-on inspections by identifying areas of concern. the most current airspace restrictions, including maximum allowable
Equipment, such as an infrared camera, can be added to the drone altitude above ground level. If the project is within proximity to an
to obtain additional information during the façade survey. airport, some additional authorization may be required.
Operation Planning
FAA Regulation Operation planning begins once the goals of the façade assessment
All commercial drone operations are regulated by the Federal Aviation are established. During this stage, verify the scope and the agreed-
Administration (FAA) and require a certified operator to perform the upon final product. Once an operation date is finalized, there are a
STRUCTURE magazine
few essential factors to consider. It
is possible the height restriction at
the project site has changed, so make
sure to revisit the airspace restrictions
and be sure you still have the proper
authorizations in place. Verify that
there are no temporary flight restric-
tions (TFR) in place in the proposed
area of observation. TFRs will be put
in place during large public events
or VIP movements. TFRs are gener-
ally considered no-fly zones and will
require additional FAA approval.
Some municipalities may have their Figure 2. Drone image of the top of Bell Tower. Figure 3. Drone head-on close-up image of deteriorated masonry.
own ordinance, which may require
you to submit information about your operation. Be sure to confirm team either due to visibility or safety. Always be aware of the surround-
these restrictions by checking online or calling local law enforcement. ings, and do not get distracted. Remain confident in your abilities to
Several airports participate in LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization control situations. During takeoff and landing, always communicate
and Notification Capability), which allows for instant authorization with the team members so that they can help verify the area is clear of
assuming the flight will remain at or below the published altitude any pedestrians or other obstructions. Remember, safety is the priority.
limit in the FAA’s ArcGIS UAS Map. If operation at a higher alti- After the first flight, review the images with the project team to verify
tude than the published limit is required, you will need to submit a you are getting the desired results. Make sure to back up all data.
request through one of the LAANC providers, identifying the loca-
Postprocessing/Deliverables
tion of your operation and why you are requesting to fly higher than
the posted maximum. Depending on the region, you should get a Once back in the office, the final step is to generate the agreed-upon
response back between two and seven days. If you need to operate in deliverable. Data backup and organization are critical. A detailed
an airspace that does not participate in LAANC, you will be required folder structure by building, elevation, or whatever other attribute
to submit an airspace authorization through the FAA’s Drone Zone is helpful. Consider keeping multiple copies of the unedited data.
portal. The response time for these will vary, so it is important to In its simplest form, the deliverable might consist of formatted and
submit this as soon as you know you need it to get approval before organized images. More detailed deliverables are also possible, includ-
your operation date. ing annotated photos, videos, imaging sequencing, or other data
The weather forecast for the upcoming operation is an important processing (e.g., if additional equipment, such as infrared cameras,
consideration. While a bright sunny day is nice and can be acceptable, is used). Understand the deliverable options and educate the client
data collection may be affected by excessive brightness. High winds, regarding options for report presentation. Use this information to
rain, or other precipitation will require rescheduling. An overcast day focus and optimize the report for its intended purpose.
can be best for photography, but keep in mind that heavy clouds can
affect the GPS signal.
It is best to make an initial site visit to identify obstructions and
Case Studies
drone takeoff and landing locations. If this is not feasible, best practice
Masonry Bell Tower
is to use available aerial imagery software to mark proposed takeoff
and landing areas, understanding these could change at the site. Be The masonry bell tower on a college campus exhibited signs of dete-
sure to consider areas that restrict operation around pedestrians and rioration of the spires at the top of the tower (Figure 1). The masonry
moving vehicles due to safety concerns. At the same time, be sure to bell tower has a church adjacent to its west elevation for approximately
mark potential obstructions to operation. 50% of the tower height. A one-story building connects to the bell
It is vital to have a checklist to ensure that you have everything you tower on the east elevation. The south elevation is located within a
need for a safe and successful operation. limited access courtyard. The north elevation was unencumbered by
other structures but had a sloped ground, making access via mobile
On-site Operation
lift impractical. Previously, the college accessed the bell tower exterior
The site visit date has arrived, and Mother Nature has provided appro- utilizing a crane basket, which cost $5,000 per day, plus mobilization.
priate weather. As an sUAS operator, the priority is always safety. The Interior access allowed for visual observations of the northeast and
first task when arriving on-site should be to walk around and verify southeast corner spires from small roofs behind the spires. However,
potential takeoff/landing locations. Take note of any obstructions, the northwest and southwest spires did not have access. Also, the entire
such as trees, overhead wires, high traffic areas, construction equip- bell tower above the spire level was inaccessible. Ground access for a
ment, and anything that may not have been obvious from the initial binocular survey was generally uninhibited but, due to the angle of
in-office planning. Be aware of nearby tall buildings and other objects incidence, it was not possible to see the tops of the step-backs up the
that could cause issues with GPS connectivity. Follow the preflight tower and the masonry spires on the west elevation.
checklist to minimize issues. Before takeoff, be sure visual observer(s) The college considered multiple options for temporary access, includ-
and all team members are clear on their tasks. ing crane basket, industrial rope access, drone access, and supported
Once airborne, keep the goals of the project in mind. If capturing scaffolding. They quickly ruled out the crane basket and supported
images manually as opposed to an automated flight path, consider scaffolding due to the cost. They also ruled out industrial rope access
focusing on areas that may otherwise be inaccessible to the project due to costs and safety concerns. Therefore, the façade assessment was
M AY 2 0 2 0 B O N U S C O N T E N T
Figure 4. Preprogrammed flight path for façade mapping. Figure 5. Infrared image of façade.
completed from the ground and utilized a drone to focus on areas scanning occurred after sunset and provided an overview of the over-
not visible from the ground. all thermal and air leakage performance of the buildings (Figure 5).
For this project, the weather was less than cooperative, with a clear Working on this campus was challenging and required significant
day forecast several days out, turning into a day with constant pre- coordination with the class schedule and the university safety office.
cipitation. As a result, it took two days to capture the information Knowing the class schedule is very helpful to maximize the time of
rather than a single day. This is something to consider when plan- the drone in the air, as well as knowing when it needs to be on the
ning a project; consider building in an extra day for contingency in ground during periods of substantial pedestrian activity. Also, notifi-
requesting authorization (e.g., local air traffic control, local officials, cation of building and grounds occupants is especially important, as
building users, etc.). Once airborne, the drone captured video and the drone flew outside the windows of professors’ offices, classrooms,
still images of areas not visible from the ground, and allowed for administrative offices, and performance spaces.
close-up, head-on photos in other areas (Figures 2 and 3). The drone The drone information helped supplement the visual assessment and
has some limitations. It cannot remove small falling hazards, such other evaluation work. More importantly, it allowed a visual review of
as loose mortar, cannot remove samples, and cannot sound masonry areas completely inaccessible using other methods. The university can
to detect delaminations. The drone typically cannot fly closer than now decide how soon to access these areas to address issues discovered
10 feet to the building due to the potential for a wind gust to carry by the drone observations.
it into the building.
Overall, using a drone allowed a more cost-effective and time-efficient
façade assessment that quickly identified potential hazards for the
Summary
college to evaluate and determine how best to address. Drones can be an incredibly useful and efficient tool with the poten-
tial to save both time and money. They provide a means of access
Supplemental Access
to obtain visual information rapidly and potentially more detailed,
The authors recently completed condition assessments on three when other means of access are too restrictive or costly. Also, drones
buildings on a university campus using aerial lifts and ground-based provide another cost-effective perspective to view the building
observations. A drone supplemented the survey for multiple reasons. façade even when façade access is possible. Like any new technol-
First, the time available with the aerial lift was limited, and there was ogy, education and understanding of limitations are imperative to
a need to focus on areas of significant distress. The drone was useful implement it effectively. Proper planning is necessary to obtain an
in determining whether areas of significant distress existed that were effective drone survey that adds to the understanding of the building
not visible from the ground. Second, despite having an aerial lift and façade. As a drone operator in the AEC industry, it is essential to
roof access, some areas of the building façades were still inaccessible remember that the primary goal is to enhance engineering work by
due to low roofs being in the way or an inability to get the aerial lift safely generating useful data that provides value. Being an integral
close enough to the building. The drone provided up-close views of member of the survey team is crucial to providing that value.■
these façades. Third, using a drone allowed for whole-building infrared
scans to determine whether air leakage or heat loss was potentially
occurring through the walls, windows, or roofs. And finally, the facil-
ity group wanted to employ new technology to evaluate its potential Peter M. Babaian is the Building Technology Division Head of SGH’s
application to the remaining buildings on campus. Chicago, Illinois office. ([email protected])
The drone captured video and still images of the building façades Sean D. Gordon introduced and manages SGH’s drone program from
and roofs. The drone was preprogrammed to photo map each building the Waltham, Massachusetts office, and is an FAA-licensed drone pilot.
first (Figure 4) and then free-flew to look at areas inaccessible from the ([email protected])
aerial lift and capture specific close-up, head-on images. The infrared
STRUCTURE magazine
education ISSUES
Industry Perspective on Masonry Education
By Heather A. Sustersic, P.E.
T he author’s “Masonry Education

Survey,” administered in October
2018, sought to answer two overarching
survey responses wherein
a reduced percentage com-
pleted the survey.
questions: 1) are industry practitioners More than half of the
satisfied with the masonry design knowl- respondents were engineers,
edge that graduating structural engineers a quarter were suppliers/
bring with them into the workforce, and manufacturers, and the
2) what aspects of masonry design are remaining were a mix
most important for graduating structural of architects, professors/
engineers to master. This survey elicited instructors, contractors, Figure 1. Survey respondent professional role in the industry.
passionate responses from engineers, archi- and industry representa-
tects, contractors, suppliers, instructors, tives (Figure 1). Sixty-eight percent of the When asked whether topics beyond basic
and industry representatives involved in respondents had more than 16 years of expe- member design should be included in
the design, specifying, installation, and/ rience, with 8.3% having more than 45 years of masonry engineering courses, 93% said “yes.”
or manufacturing of masonry systems for experience (Figure 2). Respondents worked on Most comments on this question were posi-
buildings. This article expands on mate- projects across the continental United States, tive, encouraging the inclusion of topics such
rial previously presented at the 13th North distributed as shown in Figure 3. as constructability, economy, understanding
American Masonry Conference, with masonry as a system, arching action, control
additional survey results gathered through joints, fire safety, detailing, and durability.
September 2019.
Satisfaction Ratings However, many remarked on the complete
Participants rated their level of satisfaction absence of masonry courses in engineering
Industry Survey & with new engineers’ level of masonry knowl- curricula, or the lack of technical depth pro-
edge upon entering the workforce. Forty-six vided in existing masonry courses. Several
Respondent Demographics percent of respondents indicated that they respondents cautioned against reducing class
A total of 237 individuals voluntarily took are dissatisfied, 6% were very dissatisfied, time spent on steel and concrete design in
a nine-question online survey in response to 36% were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied, favor of including more masonry, but still
an open invitation circulated by the Masonry and 11% were satisfied. Only 1% indicated supported that masonry should be taught to
Society, the Pennsylvania Concrete Masonry that they were very satisfied. Figure 4 depicts engineering students.
Association, the Mid-Atlantic Masonry overall satisfaction ratings for the entire
Association, the Northwest Concrete group of respondents, while Figure 5 breaks
Masonry Association, the International out the satisfaction ratings by discipline.
Topic Rankings and Results
Masonry Institute, and word-of-mouth. 185 Generally, engineers and suppliers/manu- Respondents weighed in on which topics
respondents completed all required ques- facturers were “dissatisfied” while professors/ should be included in the ideal masonry
tions, and 31 completed the ninth optional instructors were “satisfied.” Contractor opin- course, ranking five general topic areas on
comment question. Participant attrition ion was bimodal but weighted more heavily an importance scale from 1 (most important)
increased quadratically up to 8% at ques- towards “dissatisfied.” Architects’ opinions to 5 (least important). Figure 6 displays these
tion six, topping out at 21.9% for question were more balanced, centered on “neither results in descending order of ranked impor-
seven – an improvement over preliminary satisfied nor dissatisfied.” tance from left to right. There is insufficient
Figure 2. Respondent professional experience distribution. Figure 3. Graphic location of respondents’ projects.
STRUCTURE magazine
space within this article to address the many
generous comments received from survey
respondents. Below is the author’s ‘high-
light summary’ that encapsulates the most
common comments and respondent sugges-
tions, in condensed form:
System Behavior Figure 4. Overall rating of satisfaction with the level of masonry knowledge in graduating engineers.
Understanding masonry as a system of modu-
lar elements is most important, relating to
how masonry is similar to but also different
from other materials. Topics such as arching
action, thermal expansion, historical masonry
behavior (e.g., flying buttresses), the effect
of control joints on wall behavior and lat-
eral stiffness, veneer, wall systems, and how
masonry can work together with architec-
ture – not against it – should be included.
Teaching engineered masonry also reinforces
the fundamental engineering mechanics skills
that students need, without emphasis on pre-
scriptive code compliance.
Constructability
“Passionate” is the best way to describe
respondent comments regarding constructa-
Figure 5. Satisfaction ratings by discipline.
bility. Engineers, especially new engineers,
need to understand how masonry systems While limited class time should be spent on
Detailing and Economy
are constructed to avoid costly schedule innovative technologies, graduating engineers
delays, increased labor costs, and increased Economy follows good detailing that may be expected to be more familiar with
material waste. The industry strongly rec- leads to constructible masonry solutions. newer technologies. They should be prepared
ommends hands-on field experience before Understanding the modularity of masonry to critically review and introduce innovative
designing, specifying, or detailing masonry and why it is selected as an economical mate- concepts to their more experienced colleagues.
systems. This would result in reduced field rial is vital. Physical limitations for placing
cutting of blocks, improved cell space for reinforcement, crack control with appropri-
grout consolidation at rebar laps, more ately detailed joints, familiarity with cast-in
Industry Wishes
constructible attachments, and reduced and post-installed anchors, and the effect of This survey revealed that the masonry
installation difficulty. air spaces in cavity walls on anchorage to industry would like to see graduating engi-
masonry is also essential. neers who: 1) have successfully completed
While engineers typically a course in masonry – with an emphasis
do not specify waterproof- on system behavior, constructability, and
ing, flashing, weeps, etc., detailing of masonry structures, 2) have
an understanding of these had hands-on experience with masonry
issues is essential to good installations, and 3) strategically leverage
detailing. masonry for economy and simplicity on
projects. Instructors are encouraged to
Innovation
attend a Masonry Educators Workshop
Engineers need to stay (MEW) and contact The Masonry Society
abreast of new technolo- (TMS) for support as they develop masonry
gies and developments content for their courses.■
related to masonry; how-
ever, this was ranked less
Heather Sustersic is a Project Engineer with
important than the other
Providence Engineering Corporation and former
categories. Several respon-
adjunct faculty member of the Architectural
dents cited the use of the
Engineering Department at Penn State University.
ASTM C-90 minimum
She currently serves as a voting member of
f´m of 2,000 psi, instead
the TMS 402/602 Structural Members and
of the previous 1,500 psi,
Reinforcement and Connectors Subcommittees.
as an example of missed
([email protected])
Figure 6. Top rankings in order of importance. innovation opportunity.
M AY 2 0 2 0 B O N U S C O N T E N T

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STRUCTURE

NCSEA | CASE | SEI MAY 2020

INSIDE: Masonry Madness 18

ENERCALC, INC ....................................2 RISA ...................................................36 Joe Murphy

Integrated Engineering Software ...............21 Struware ................................................4 Jerry Preston

Publisher Christine M. Sloat, P.E.

Associate Publisher Nikki Alger

Visit our website Creative Director Tara Smith

Linda M. Kaplan, P.E.

Charles “Chuck” F. King, P.E.

Emily B. Lorenz, P.E.

Jessica Mandrick, P.E., S.E., LEED AP

Jason McCool, P.E.

Evans Mountzouris, P.E.

The DiSalvo Engineering Group, Danbury, CT

John “Buddy” Showalter, P.E.

Eytan Solomon, P.E., LEED AP

Jeannette M. Torrents, P.E., S.E., LEED AP

STRUCTURE ® magazine (ISSN 1536 4283) is published monthly

ENR MOUNTAIN STATES 2018

Columns and Departments

8 Structural Innovation Advancement in Masonry Today

12 Structural Design New Digital Tool Simplifies

14 Structural Performance The Wilkes-Barre Tornado

17 Emerging Technology A Structure as an Electric Battery?

Building. This building has been called everything from a

30 Business Practices Inviting and Keeping Women

Replacement project’s feature of the auditorium and the

Channeling Tom Hanks

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• Fastbrick Robotics is a start-up out of

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blocks of masonry sub-assemblies, then masonry sub-assemblies

O n June 13, 2018, at approximately 10:00 PM,

Current commentary provisions in ASCE 7-16, Minimum Design

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Aegis developed Ultra-Span trusses ®

with a proprietary shape that brings your

A new class of material has become the focus of much research

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STRUCTURE magazine M AY 2020 17

Figure 1. Curved masonry façade.

B rick is one of the simplest and the most versatile materials,

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T he construction industry often thinks

T here is much talk about how to engage

Have you Considered a Diamond Review of your Education Offerings?

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A Message from the SEI President