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Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4D10: Structural Steelwork, 2018-19

Module Leader

Prof F A McRobie

Lecturer

Prof F.A. McRobie

Lab Leader

Prof F A McRobie

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas Term. 12 lectures + 2 examples classes + coursework. Assessment: 75% exam/25% coursework

Prerequisites

3D4 assumed, 3D3 useful.

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • bridge some of the gap between structural analysis, as taught in Parts I and IIA, and practical steel design as presented in design codes; however, although it will refer to the appropriate codes, it will not be an "introduction to the code" module.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • show an understanding of the background to the major codes of practice for structural steel work.
  • apply these codes thoughtfully to the design of real steel structures.
  • differentiate between the functions of compact, prefabricated sections and lightweight, thin-walled plate-girder members.
  • appreciate the vital function of joints and connnectors, and understand the limitation of various jointing techniques.
  • understand the performance of civil engineering composite structures.

Content

A separate handout with numerous worked examples covers each of the sections below.

Preliminary Details (1L)

  • Steel properties and grading;
  • Types of section;
  • Principles of Limit-States design;
  • Partial safety factors;
  • British and European Standards.

Compact Member Design (6L)

  • Flexural buckling of columns (axial loads) and effect of elastic restraints;
  • Lateral torsional buckling of beams (transverse loads);
  • Beam-column buckling using Interaction Equations.

Thin-walled Member Design (3L)

  • Local buckling modes for a plate due to compression, bending and shearing;
  • Definitions of compactness and effective sections for beams and columns;
  • Panel performances in stiffened sections.

Joints and Composite Construction (3L)

  • Connections for simple and continuous construction;
  • Bolted joints using bearing bolts and friction bolts;
  • Welded joints using butt and fillet welds;
  • Fatigue life of welds;
  • Classification of weld joints;
  • Detailing of joints;
  • Composite section types;
  • Composite section design using headed shear connectors;
  • Composite floor slabs using profiled decking.

Coursework

Design of a simple steel structure, using methods from the course. Formal report for assessment. (Dr Seffen)

Coursework Format

Due date

& marks

[Coursework activity #1 title / Interim]

Coursework 1 brief description

Learning objective:

  •  
  •  

Individual/group

Report / Presentation

[non] anonymously marked

day during term, ex:

Thu week 3

[xx/60]

[Coursework activity #2 title / Final]

Coursework 2 brief description

Learning objective:

  •  
  •  

Individual Report

anonymously marked

  Wed week 9

[xx/60]

 

 

Booklists

Please see the Booklist for Group D Courses for references to this module.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

UK-SPEC

This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:

Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.

GT1

Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.

IA1

Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.

IA2

Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.

KU1

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.

KU2

Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.

E1

Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.

E2

Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.

E3

Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.

P1

A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.

P3

Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).

P4

Understanding use of technical literature and other information sources.

P6

Understanding of appropriate codes of practice and industry standards.

US1

A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.

 
Last modified: 03/08/2018 14:46

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4D10: Structural Steelwork, 2019-20

Module Leader

Prof F A McRobie

Lecturer

Prof F.A. McRobie

Lab Leader

Prof F A McRobie

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas Term. 12 lectures + 2 examples classes + coursework. Assessment: 75% exam/25% coursework

Prerequisites

3D4 assumed, 3D3 useful.

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • bridge some of the gap between structural analysis, as taught in Parts I and IIA, and practical steel design as presented in design codes; however, although it will refer to the appropriate codes, it will not be an "introduction to the code" module.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • show an understanding of the background to the major codes of practice for structural steel work.
  • apply these codes thoughtfully to the design of real steel structures.
  • differentiate between the functions of compact, prefabricated sections and lightweight, thin-walled plate-girder members.
  • appreciate the vital function of joints and connnectors, and understand the limitation of various jointing techniques.
  • understand the performance of civil engineering composite structures.

Content

A separate handout with numerous worked examples covers each of the sections below.

Preliminary Details (1L)

  • Steel properties and grading;
  • Types of section;
  • Principles of Limit-States design;
  • Partial safety factors;
  • British and European Standards.

Compact Member Design (6L)

  • Flexural buckling of columns (axial loads) and effect of elastic restraints;
  • Lateral torsional buckling of beams (transverse loads);
  • Beam-column buckling using Interaction Equations.

Thin-walled Member Design (3L)

  • Local buckling modes for a plate due to compression, bending and shearing;
  • Definitions of compactness and effective sections for beams and columns;
  • Panel performances in stiffened sections.

Joints and Composite Construction (3L)

  • Connections for simple and continuous construction;
  • Bolted joints using bearing bolts and friction bolts;
  • Welded joints using butt and fillet welds;
  • Fatigue life of welds;
  • Classification of weld joints;
  • Detailing of joints;
  • Composite section types;
  • Composite section design using headed shear connectors;
  • Composite floor slabs using profiled decking.

Coursework

Design of a simple steel structure, using methods from the course. Formal report for assessment. (Dr Seffen)

Coursework Format

Due date

& marks

[Coursework activity #1 title / Interim]

Coursework 1 brief description

Learning objective:

  •  
  •  

Individual/group

Report / Presentation

[non] anonymously marked

day during term, ex:

Thu week 3

[xx/60]

[Coursework activity #2 title / Final]

Coursework 2 brief description

Learning objective:

  •  
  •  

Individual Report

anonymously marked

  Wed week 9

[xx/60]

 

 

Booklists

Please see the Booklist for Group D Courses for references to this module.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

UK-SPEC

This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:

Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.

GT1

Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.

IA1

Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.

IA2

Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.

KU1

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.

KU2

Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.

E1

Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.

E2

Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.

E3

Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.

P1

A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.

P3

Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).

P4

Understanding use of technical literature and other information sources.

P6

Understanding of appropriate codes of practice and industry standards.

US1

A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.

 
Last modified: 28/05/2019 14:13

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4D10: Structural Steelwork, 2017-18

Module Leader

Mr F A McRobie

Lecturer

Mr F.A. McRobie

Lab Leader

Mr F A McRobie

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas Term. 12 lectures + 2 examples classes + coursework. Assessment: 75% exam/25% coursework

Prerequisites

3D4 assumed, 3D3 useful.

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • bridge some of the gap between structural analysis, as taught in Parts I and IIA, and practical steel design as presented in design codes; however, although it will refer to the appropriate codes, it will not be an "introduction to the code" module.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • show an understanding of the background to the major codes of practice for structural steel work.
  • apply these codes thoughtfully to the design of real steel structures.
  • differentiate between the functions of compact, prefabricated sections and lightweight, thin-walled plate-girder members.
  • appreciate the vital function of joints and connnectors, and understand the limitation of various jointing techniques.
  • understand the performance of civil engineering composite structures.

Content

A separate handout with numerous worked examples covers each of the sections below.

Preliminary Details (1L)

  • Steel properties and grading;
  • Types of section;
  • Principles of Limit-States design;
  • Partial safety factors;
  • British and European Standards.

Compact Member Design (6L)

  • Flexural buckling of columns (axial loads) and effect of elastic restraints;
  • Lateral torsional buckling of beams (transverse loads);
  • Beam-column buckling using Interaction Equations.

Thin-walled Member Design (3L)

  • Local buckling modes for a plate due to compression, bending and shearing;
  • Definitions of compactness and effective sections for beams and columns;
  • Panel performances in stiffened sections.

Joints and Composite Construction (3L)

  • Connections for simple and continuous construction;
  • Bolted joints using bearing bolts and friction bolts;
  • Welded joints using butt and fillet welds;
  • Fatigue life of welds;
  • Classification of weld joints;
  • Detailing of joints;
  • Composite section types;
  • Composite section design using headed shear connectors;
  • Composite floor slabs using profiled decking.

Coursework

Design of a simple steel structure, using methods from the course. Formal report for assessment. (Dr Seffen)

Coursework Format

Due date

& marks

[Coursework activity #1 title / Interim]

Coursework 1 brief description

Learning objective:

  •  
  •  

Individual/group

Report / Presentation

[non] anonymously marked

day during term, ex:

Thu week 3

[xx/60]

[Coursework activity #2 title / Final]

Coursework 2 brief description

Learning objective:

  •  
  •  

Individual Report

anonymously marked

  Wed week 9

[xx/60]

 

 

Booklists

Please see the Booklist for Group D Courses for references to this module.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

UK-SPEC

This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:

Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.

GT1

Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.

IA1

Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.

IA2

Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.

KU1

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.

KU2

Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.

E1

Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.

E2

Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.

E3

Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.

P1

A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.

P3

Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).

P4

Understanding use of technical literature and other information sources.

P6

Understanding of appropriate codes of practice and industry standards.

US1

A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.

 
Last modified: 04/08/2017 12:09

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4D8: Pre-stressed Concrete (shared with IIA), 2017-18

Module Leader

Prof T Ibell

Lecturer

Prof T Ibell`

Lab Leader

Prof T Ibell

Timing and Structure

Lent term. 16 lectures (including examples classes) + coursework. Assessment: 100% exam

Prerequisites

3D3 and 3D4 useful

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • understand the analysis and design of prestressed concrete.
  • understand various issues associated with prestressed concrete which are core to its success.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • understand the principles of prestressed concrete, and appreciate why it has important structural advantages.
  • be able to design and analyse statically determinate, composite and statically indeterminate prestressed concrete structures.

Content

Basic Principles (7L)

Introduction, prestress applications, definitions, section design, Magnel diagram, statically determinate structures, limits on stress, practical considerations, current problems, new horizons, new materials.
 

Indeterminate beams (3L)

Secondary moments, line of pressure, concordant profiles, design approaches for continuous beams.
 

Strength Calculations (3L)

Ultimate strength (simple modifications to RC theory), shear failure and prevention.
 

Losses and the long term (3L)

Loss of prestress, creep, composite construction.
 

Coursework

This will consist of carrying out a test on a prestressed concrete beam, plus a write-up.

Prestressed Concrete Laboratory

Learning objectives

  • To understand how concrete can be prestressed
  • To see the effect which such prestress has on a beam
  • To observe failure of a prestressed concrete beam

Practical information:

  • Sessions will take place in the Structures Laboratory on dates yet to be determined.
  • This activity doesn't involve preliminary work.

 

Booklists

Please see the Booklist for Group D Courses for references for this module.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

UK-SPEC

This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:

Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.

GT1

Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.

IA1

Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.

IA2

Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.

KU1

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.

KU2

Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.

D1

Wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and the ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.

S1

The ability to make general evaluations of commercial risks through some understanding of the basis of such risks.

E1

Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.

E2

Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.

P1

A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.

P3

Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).

US1

A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.

US4

An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.

 
Last modified: 05/10/2017 16:22

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4D7: Concrete Structures, 2018-19

Module Leader

Prof C Middleton

Lecturers

Prof C Middleton, Dr J Orr, Dr P Desnerck

Lab Leader

Dr J Orr

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas term. 12 lectures + 2 examples classes + coursework. Assessment: 75% exam/25% coursework.

Prerequisites

3D3 assumed

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • carry further basic material on reinforced concrete studied in Part IIA, treat such matters as durability and corrosion, design of beams, slab, columns & frameworks (for shear and torsion as well as bending), but leaving prestressed concrete to 4D8.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • have a good basic appreciation of the constituents and properties of concrete.
  • understand deterioration processes affecting reinforced concrete, and how to control them.
  • analyse simple concrete structural components and frameworks, and design them to practical requirements.

Content

Background to cement and concrete (1L)

Recent developments

Limit state design (1L)

  • Probability concepts: partial safety factors (brief survey)
  • Failure case studies.

Material properties (2L)

  • Hydration and strength of cement paste;
  • Uniaxial properties of concrete;
  • Concrete under multiaxial stress.

Durability (2L)

  • Net Present Value: whole life costing;
  • Deterioration of concrete;
  • Water migration through concrete; concrete in fire (brief mention)
  • Corrosion of steel in concrete; preventative measures.

Reinforced concrete structures (6L)

  • Serviceability: crack widths, deflections (revision)
  • Initial sizing of members (revision of 3D3)
  • Beams, slabs and frameworks at ultimate limit state;
  • Column design, instability;
  • Shear failure (and fracture mechanics);
  • Truss analogy, torsion;

Coursework

This will consist of two parts (i) witnessing experimental laboratory techniques in the context of reinforced concrete testing, plus short write-up, and (ii) a short design exercise.

Coursework Format

Due date

& marks

[Coursework activity #1 title / Interim]

Coursework 1 brief description

Learning objective:

  •  
  •  

Individual/group

Report / Presentation

[non] anonymously marked

day during term, ex:

Thu week 3

[xx/60]

[Coursework activity #2 title / Final]

Coursework 2 brief description

Learning objective:

  •  
  •  

Individual Report

anonymously marked

  Wed week 9

[xx/60]

 

 

Booklists

Please see the Booklist for Group D Courses for references for this module.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

UK-SPEC

This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:

Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.

GT1

Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.

IA1

Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.

IA2

Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.

KU1

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.

KU2

Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.

S1

The ability to make general evaluations of commercial risks through some understanding of the basis of such risks.

E1

Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.

E2

Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.

E3

Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.

P1

A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.

P3

Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).

P8

Ability to apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and industrial constraints.

US1

A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.

 
Last modified: 25/09/2018 07:39

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4D7: Concrete Structures, 2017-18

Module Leader

Prof C Middleton

Lecturers

Prof C Middleton, Dr J Orr

Lab Leader

Dr J Orr

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas term. 12 lectures + 2 examples classes + coursework. Assessment: 75% exam/25% coursework.

Prerequisites

3D3 assumed

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • carry further basic material on reinforced concrete studied in Part IIA, treat such matters as durability and corrosion, design of beams, slab, columns & frameworks (for shear and torsion as well as bending), but leaving prestressed concrete to 4D8.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • have a good basic appreciation of the constituents and properties of concrete.
  • understand deterioration processes affecting reinforced concrete, and how to control them.
  • analyse simple concrete structural components and frameworks, and design them to practical requirements.

Content

Background to cement and concrete (1L)

Recent developments

Limit state design (1L)

  • Probability concepts: partial safety factors (brief survey)
  • Failure case studies.

Material properties (2L)

  • Hydration and strength of cement paste;
  • Uniaxial properties of concrete;
  • Concrete under multiaxial stress.

Durability (2L)

  • Net Present Value: whole life costing;
  • Deterioration of concrete;
  • Water migration through concrete; concrete in fire (brief mention)
  • Corrosion of steel in concrete; preventative measures.

Reinforced concrete structures (6L)

  • Serviceability: crack widths, deflections (revision)
  • Initial sizing of members (revision of 3D3)
  • Beams, slabs and frameworks at ultimate limit state;
  • Column design, instability;
  • Shear failure (and fracture mechanics);
  • Truss analogy, torsion;

Coursework

This will consist of two parts (i) witnessing experimental laboratory techniques in the context of reinforced concrete testing, plus short write-up, and (ii) a short design exercise.

Coursework Format

Due date

& marks

[Coursework activity #1 title / Interim]

Coursework 1 brief description

Learning objective:

  •  
  •  

Individual/group

Report / Presentation

[non] anonymously marked

day during term, ex:

Thu week 3

[xx/60]

[Coursework activity #2 title / Final]

Coursework 2 brief description

Learning objective:

  •  
  •  

Individual Report

anonymously marked

  Wed week 9

[xx/60]

 

 

Booklists

Please see the Booklist for Group D Courses for references for this module.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

UK-SPEC

This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:

Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.

GT1

Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.

IA1

Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.

IA2

Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.

KU1

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.

KU2

Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.

S1

The ability to make general evaluations of commercial risks through some understanding of the basis of such risks.

E1

Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.

E2

Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.

E3

Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.

P1

A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.

P3

Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).

P8

Ability to apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and industrial constraints.

US1

A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.

 
Last modified: 31/08/2017 07:08

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4D7: Concrete Structures, 2025-26

Module Leader

Prof C Middleton

Lecturers

Prof C Middleton, Dr J Orr, Dr P Desnerck

Lab Leader

Dr J Orr

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas term. 12 lectures + 2 examples classes + coursework. Assessment: 75% exam/25% coursework.

Prerequisites

3D3 assumed

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • carry further basic material on reinforced concrete studied in Part IIA, treat such matters as durability and corrosion, design of beams, slab, columns & frameworks (for shear and torsion as well as bending), but leaving prestressed concrete to 4D8.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • have a good basic appreciation of the constituents and properties of concrete.
  • understand deterioration processes affecting reinforced concrete, and how to control them.
  • analyse simple concrete structural components and frameworks, and design them to practical requirements.

Content

Background to cement and concrete (1L)

Recent developments

Limit state design (1L)

  • Probability concepts: partial safety factors (brief survey)
  • Failure case studies.

Material properties (2L)

  • Hydration and strength of cement paste;
  • Uniaxial properties of concrete;
  • Concrete under multiaxial stress.

Durability (2L)

  • Net Present Value: whole life costing;
  • Deterioration of concrete;
  • Water migration through concrete; concrete in fire (brief mention)
  • Corrosion of steel in concrete; preventative measures.

Reinforced concrete structures (6L)

  • Serviceability: crack widths, deflections (revision)
  • Initial sizing of members (revision of 3D3)
  • Beams, slabs and frameworks at ultimate limit state;
  • Column design, instability;
  • Shear failure (and fracture mechanics);
  • Truss analogy, torsion;

Coursework

This will consist of two parts (i) witnessing experimental laboratory techniques in the context of reinforced concrete testing, plus short write-up, and (ii) a short design exercise.

Coursework Format

Due date

& marks

[Coursework activity #1 title / Interim]

Coursework 1 brief description

Learning objective:

  •  
  •  

Individual/group

Report / Presentation

[non] anonymously marked

day during term, ex:

Thu week 3

[xx/60]

[Coursework activity #2 title / Final]

Coursework 2 brief description

Learning objective:

  •  
  •  

Individual Report

anonymously marked

  Wed week 9

[xx/60]

 

 

Booklists

Please see the Booklist for Group D Courses for references for this module.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

UK-SPEC

This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:

Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.

GT1

Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.

IA1

Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.

IA2

Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.

KU1

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.

KU2

Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.

S1

The ability to make general evaluations of commercial risks through some understanding of the basis of such risks.

E1

Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.

E2

Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.

E3

Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.

P1

A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.

P3

Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).

P8

Ability to apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and industrial constraints.

US1

A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.

 
Last modified: 04/06/2025 13:28

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4D5: Foundation Engineering, 2017-18

Module Leader

Dr G Biscontin

Lecturers

Dr G Biscontin and Dr S K Haigh

Timing and Structure

Lent term. 14 lectures. Assessment: 100% exam

Prerequisites

3D2 assumed

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • introduce the challenges of foundation design and examine possible solutions; from simple pad footings, through piles and caissons, to drop-and drag-anchors.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • assess the design requirements of a foundation.
  • deduce appropriate soil properties for foundation design from site investigation data.
  • decide whether to use a shallow or deep foundation.
  • design shallow and deep foundations against collapse.
  • design shallow and deep foundations against excessive settlement.
  • explain the difference between drained and undrained response.
  • recognise mechanisms which contribute to generating deformations and load capacity.
  • back-analyse observed foundation performance
  • appreciate lessons learnt from field data obtained from case histories.

Content

All civil engineering structures from houses to tethered oil platforms require foundations.

The module begins by examining the requirements of a foundation; the applied loading, the acceptable deformations and the derivation of appropriate soil properties for each aspect of design.

The module then builds on material from 3D2 (geotechnical engineering) to examine theoretical solutions for the capacity (strength) and settlement (stiffness) of shallow and deep foundations under simple loading conditions in idealised soils. Strength is dealt with using plasticity. Stiffness is dealt with using elasticity. These theoretical solutions are then extended to more complex loading conditions and less idealised soils. The course is widely illustrated with case studies from the offshore industry.

Foundations Design (2L)

  • Foundation types;
  • Loading conditions;
  • Allowable deformations;
  • Relevant soil behaviour and soil models;
  • Selection of design soil properties

Shallow Foundations (6L)

  • Strength: Undrained failure of strip footings: Vertical (V), Horizontal (H) and Moment (M) capacity;
  • Strength: Drained failure of strip footings: V-H-M capacity, superposition of surcharge and self-weight effects;
  • Effects of footing shape and embedment, and soil heterogeneity;
  • Stiffness: Elastic settlement of shallow foundations: drained and undrained;
  • Stiffness: Settlement of shallow foundations on non-linear soil.

Deep Foundations (6L)

  • Deep foundation types and construction methods; piles, caissons, drop-anchors;
  • Pile strength: Axial and lateral capacity;
  • Pile stiffness: Axial and lateral deformations;
  • Piles: load testing, influence of installation method on performance;
  • Pile groups: mutual influence, block behaviour, differential settlement;
  • Offshore solutions: caissons, anchors: installation methods and capacity.

Coursework

The preliminary evaluation of three design solutions for an offshore wind turbine foundation.

Booklists

Please see the Booklist for Group D Courses for references for this module.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

UK-SPEC

This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:

Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.

GT1

Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.

IA1

Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.

IA2

Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.

KU1

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.

KU2

Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.

E1

Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.

P1

A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.

P3

Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).

US1

A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.

US4

An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.

 
Last modified: 10/10/2017 12:07

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4D5: Foundation Engineering, 2018-19

Module Leader

Dr G Biscontin

Lecturers

Dr G Biscontin and Dr S K Haigh

Timing and Structure

Lent term. 14 lectures. Assessment: 100% exam

Prerequisites

3D2 assumed

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • introduce the challenges of foundation design and examine possible solutions from simple pad footings, through piles and caissons.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • assess the design requirements of a foundation.
  • deduce appropriate soil properties for foundation design from site investigation data.
  • decide whether to use a shallow or deep foundation.
  • design shallow and deep foundations against collapse.
  • design shallow and deep foundations against excessive settlement.
  • explain the difference between drained and undrained response.
  • recognise mechanisms which contribute to generating deformations and load capacity.
  • back-analyse observed foundation performance

Content

All civil engineering structures from houses to tethered oil platforms require foundations.

The module begins by examining the requirements of a foundation; the applied loading, the acceptable deformations and the derivation of appropriate soil properties for each aspect of design.

The module then builds on material from 3D2 (geotechnical engineering) to examine theoretical solutions for the capacity (strength) and settlement (stiffness) of shallow and deep foundations under simple loading conditions in idealised soils. Strength is dealt with using plasticity. Stiffness is dealt with using elasticity. These theoretical solutions are then extended to more complex loading conditions and less idealised soils. 

Obtaining geotechnical data

  • Site investigation methods
  • Field measurements of soil stiffness
  • Laboratory assessment of soil strength and stiffness parameters
  • Small strain stiffness of soils

Foundations Design

  • Foundation types;
  • Loading conditions;
  • Relevant soil behaviour and soil models;
  • Selection of design soil properties

Shallow Foundations

  • Strength: undrained failure of strip footings: vertical (V), horizontal (H) and moment (M) capacity;
  • Strength: drained failure of strip footings: V-H-M capacity, superposition of surcharge and self-weight effects;
  • Effects of footing shape and embedment, and soil heterogeneity;
  • Stiffness: elastic settlement of shallow foundations: drained and undrained;
  • Stiffness: settlement of shallow foundations on non-linear soil.

Deep Foundations (6L)

  • Deep foundation types and construction methods; piles and caissons.
  • Pile strength: axial and lateral capacity;
  • Pile stiffness: axial and lateral deformations;
  • Piles: load testing, influence of installation method on performance;
  • Pile groups: mutual influence, block behaviour, differential settlement;

Booklists

Please see the Booklist for Group D Courses for references for this module.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

UK-SPEC

This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:

Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.

GT1

Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.

IA1

Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.

IA2

Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.

KU1

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.

KU2

Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.

E1

Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.

P1

A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.

P3

Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).

US1

A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.

US4

An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.

 
Last modified: 31/05/2018 18:28

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4D4: Construction Engineering, 2020-21

Module Leader

Prof G Viggiani

Lecturer

Prof G Viggiani and Dr I Brilakis

Timing and Structure

Lent term - 14 lectures - Assessment: 100% coursework

Prerequisites

3D1, 3D2 and 4D16 useful

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • familiarise students with key design and construction aspects of those areas of construction engineering which are commonly encountered in many major civil engineering projects.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • understand key issues in front-end planning and construction of major civil engineering infrastructure.
  • understand the basics of construction site development, earth removing methods and earth excavation techniques.
  • understand the basics for rock excavation and blasting.
  • understand the practical considerations for loading and hauling operations including productivity estimation, fleet economics and equipment selection.
  • understand the design, construction and operational aspects of compacting, finishing and paving operations for road infrastructure.
  • address stability and deformation problems relating to different types of deep excavation construction (e.g. diaphragm walls, top-down construction, bottom-up construction) in different ground conditions.
  • understand the principal design and construction problems associated with bored tunnel projects.
  • estimate ground movements caused by deep excavations and tunnelling and assess their effects on buildings and services.
  • select appropriate protective and ground improvement measures for different underground construction problems.
  • understand the principal considerations associated with ground water control during construction.
  • understand the conventional and advanced instrumentation techniques used for measuring ground movements and mechanical strain in practice including advantages and limitations.

Content

This module aims to familiarise students with key design and construction aspects of those areas of construction engineering which are commonly encountered in many major civil engineering projects. These are earth moving and soil excavation techniques, rock excavation and blasting, road construction and equipment fleet economics, underground construction and tunnelling, and instrumentation and monitoring. Earthworks for ground and underground construction are becoming increasingly important as massive rail and road projects are needed to cope with growing traffic while underground space is being utilised in urban areas for mass transit systems (metros) and many other areas of infrastructure development.  Instrumentation and monitoring is a growing area with many new innovative techniques being introduced, many of them recently developed at Cambridge. Rock excavation and blasting, as well as paving operations, provide particular challenges in many civil engineering projects. This module will introduce students to the latest front-end planning and construction technologies being used in all these areas. 
 
Site development & earthmoving materials
Excavation techniques & earth moving methods 
Loading and hauling
Road construction
Fleet economics
Deep excavations and bored tunnels
Tunnel stability and ground movements
Damage to buildings and services caused by deep excavations and tunnels, risk assessments
Protective measures and ground treatment for underground construction
Effects of tunnelling and deep excavations on building performance – case histories
Groundwater control
Instrumentation and monitoring
 
7L, Prof G. Viggiani; 7L, Dr I. Brilakis

Coursework

(a) Underground construction (tunnelling), based on a real project: tasks are to establish tunnel stability during construction, assess the risk of damage to a building of considerable historical interest, and design outline protective measures for the building. 
 
(b) Construction earthwork and equipment: estimation of excavation soil volumes from drawings, earthwork production calculation, logistics planning for transporting earth materials and for road construction operations, and equipment economics.
 

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:

Toggle showing UK-SPEC areas.

Coursework Format

Due date

& marks

Coursework 1: Underground construction

Underground construction (tunnelling), based on a real tunnelling project: tasks are to establish tunnel stability duting construction, assess the risk of damage to a building of considerable historical interest and design outline protective measures for the building.

Learning objective:

  • estimate ground movements caused by tunnelling and assess their effects on buildings 
  • define appropriate protective measures

Individual Report

anonymously marked

 

[30/60]

Coursework 2: Earthworks

Construction earthwork and equipment: estimation of excavation soil volumes from drawings, earthwork production, blast design, logistics planning for transporting soils to/from project sites, paving and economics.

Learning objective:

  • Understand the basics of construction site development, earth removing methods and earth/rock excavation techniques.
  • Understand the practical considerations for loading and hauling operations including productivity estimation and equipment selection.
     
  • Understand road construction operations and equipment fleet economics. 

Individual Report

anonymously marked

 

[30/60]

 

 

Booklists

Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

UK-SPEC

This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:

Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.

GT1

Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.

IA1

Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.

IA2

Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.

KU1

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.

KU2

Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.

E1

Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.

P1

A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.

P3

Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).

US1

A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.

 
Last modified: 01/09/2020 10:32

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