Building a house can be an exciting project and a lifetime achievement. However, before the first shovel hits the ground, you will want to cover all the bases in terms of soil and rock tests. A geotechnical engineer can help determine the strength of your soil.
While a building might look solid and stable, it’s actually withstanding a wide variety of different forces at any given time. Structural engineers are trained in how to account for all of these forces to make sure that there aren’t any problems.
Advances in calculation methodology, bolting assembly processes, and gasket technology have created new standards for pressure boundaries in joint assemblies. Among them is stripping excessive paint from joint parts before assembly.
Depending on your location, your building plans may need a structural engineer’s stamp on them. This certification means that the plans have been reviewed and that the building meets all necessary requirements so that permits can be issued.
When environmental regulations and restrictions place limitations on your construction project, our team of mechanical engineers can work with you to identify and develop the most cost-effective designs and applications so that you can keep moving forward.
A geotechnical engineer will conduct soil tests as well as check the groundwater level that is directly below the building zone. They will then be able to advise on the best way to build the strongest structure possible.
There are several types of building project challenges that require the expertise of a geotechnical engineer. These include questionable or expansive soil, deep foundations, the presence of rock strata, and the need for seismic design.
An important component of HVAC, which is a sub-division of mechanical engineering, is ventilation. This is the process of “changing” or replacing air in any space to control temperature or remove any combination of moisture, odors, smoke, heat, dust, airborne bacteria or carbon dioxide, and to replenish oxygen.
Mission: “The professional improvement of the members, the encouragement of social intercourse among men of practical science, the advancement of engineering in its several branches, and of architecture, and the establishment of a central point of reference and union for its members.” (Society of Civil Engineers and Architects, 1852)
As of 2010, the longest suspension bridge in the world was the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge in Kobe, Japan. This bridge spans an amazing 6529 feet.
Architects and engineers work closely together, but perform very different roles. Architects focus on a building’s interior and exterior appearance, layout, form and function. Structural engineers focus on the building core, the infrastructure that ensures the building is solid, strong and able to withstand unexpected forces.
Wondering what the difference is between a civil engineer and a mechanical engineer? A civil engineer is usually concerned with the overall design and construction, while a mechanical engineer is focused on the mechanical systems, such as HVAC or utility control.
De Architectura consists of ten books written by Vitruvius around 25 BC. It comprises one of the earliest compendiums related to structural engineering and architecture. Among other topics, he addressed building materials and machines used in construction.
A strong foundation can withstand the weight of a multi floored structure. However, if the soil underneath the foundation is not solid, many serious complications may occur. Having a geotechnical survey completed from the outset is very important.
In construction, mechanical engineers manage every detail of critical mechanical systems. Whether they’re selecting the right HVAC system or designating where and how ductwork, vents, and intake systems should be positioned, they’re involved in every design and construction stage.
The ancient Greeks discovered a great deal of mathematics, and the Romans put them to use to make huge advancements in structural engineering. Using masonry and concrete, they built aqueducts and buildings that are still around today. Their methods were recorded in De Architectura by Vitruvius around 25 BC.
Bedrock, gravel and coarse sand are the best soil types for strong, stable foundations. Buildings constructed on fine sand, clay or silty soil often experience problems, because the load-bearing capacity shifts as water content changes, causing inadequate foundations to shift, crack or buckle.
The structural requirements of a building will change drastically depending on the purpose. For example, a house can have less forces acting on it then a multi-story hospital. Whatever your project, we can help make sure that it’s structurally sound.
If you are having foundation issues, bringing in a structural engineer first can ensure that the foundation contractor does the work necessary to completely level your home and that you won’t have problems again in the future. He or she can also ensure that any unnecessary repairs aren’t made.
While it's easy to overlook when the building's finished, the ventilation system is crucial for heating, cooling, and making sure there's fresh air. Mechanical engineers are experts at designing ductwork and ventilation systems to fit the design and give good airflow.
One of the hardest parts during reconstruction after a fire is figuring out just how much of the structure was damaged. Fortunately, a structural engineer will help make this easier, and can give you a detailed analysis of the structure’s integrity.
Looking to go green with your new building? Green technology is advancing all of the time. Fortunately, mechanical engineers keep themselves educated on new technology as it develops, and can work with you to make sure your building is as green as possible.
There are several different aspects of site conditions that a geotechnical engineer will look closely at. Specific concerns include expansive soils, potential for erosion, soils with a high liquefaction potential, a high water table, and frost heave potential.
We realize that most homeowners don’t realize the extent of changes they’ll need to make in order to get off the power grid. If you’re ready to switch to an alternative energy source, we’re always happy to help you make it happen safely.