All projects begin with a concept development phase that eventually evolves into the design phase. Concrete is a key building material for the construction of many structures and as a consequence, consideration of concrete materials and related issues must be done during these initial development and design phases. Whether concrete is intended for a structural system, a mass concrete application, or as RCC for dams, a number of investigations and material analyses are necessary for success. These include a thorough evaluation of available concrete materials, the development and balance of mixture properties and constituent proportions, and the inspection of aggregate and production plants. Evaluations include the analysis of thermal conditions and potential for cracking, shear and/or tensile strength performance of dam lift surfaces, and the development of many concrete construction details. The following list provides examples of the various planning and design tasks Tatro Hinds has performed.
- Aggregate source location
- Aggregate quality evaluation
- Alkali-silica reactivity service evaluation
- Aggregate and concrete plant evaluation and inspection
- Evaluating concrete distress for rehabilitation
- Thermal cracking evaluation
- Technical specification development
- Cost estimates for roller compacted concrete
- Development of concrete strength and performance criteria
- Support to design documents, project planning and method statements