Font Styles in Technical Writing
Have you considered when and where to use certain font styles in your daily technical documents? Are font styles purely decorative in nature, or do they serve a more meaningful purpose? Which fonts are appropriate for technical writings? In October 2018, Janel Miller, from the University of Wisconsin at Madison, gave a presentation on Improving […]
Principles for Concise Technical Writing
When was the last time you reflected on your writing process for emails, reports, or client updates? Have you considered ways to improve how your audience may perceive your document? Writing is truly an artform, and technical writing requires great skill to engage and inform readers without being unnecessarily complex and difficult for readers to […]
Concrete Pryout Failure for Anchors
Anchors in concrete have several different modes of failure when subject to tension or shear loads. Concrete breakouts in tension tend to get the most consideration since the calculations can be more complex depending on various geometric constraints of anchors or anchor groups. For anchor groups in shear, concrete pryout may also be of concern, […]
Anchored in Knowledge: Resources for Anchors in Concrete
Is your library lacking in design examples for anchors in concrete? Are you familiar with the code-required inspections and certifications for concrete anchors? Designing anchors in concrete can be complex and time-consuming if done by hand. Given the ever-increasing utility and flexibility of post-installed anchors, having the best resources on your bookshelf can ensure all […]
Statement of Special Inspections
For certain structural projects, special inspections are required by the code to ensure a high quality of construction. However, which elements require special inspections? How often are the inspections required and who is responsible for ensuring the are completed at the appropriate time during construction. In the July 2018 SE University session, Dave K. Adams, […]
Increasing Deck Diaphragm Shear Capacities
When designing large roof deck diaphragms, the shear requirements at the perimeter often far exceed those in the field, so much so that the more commonly used lighter gage decks and typical attachment designs can be inadequate. What is the best way to increase the deck diaphragm shear strength while also minimizing any cost increases? […]
Steel Deck Diaphragm Calculators and Resources
Keeping up with all of the available resources for structural engineers can be a job in itself. But being aware of these resources can save time and headaches during design. Are you familiar with the most recent tools developed for steel deck diaphragm design? In June 2018, Keith Cullum, PE, from Simpson Strong-Tie gave a […]
Resources for Wood Construction Issues
How often have you visited a job site for a wood structure you have designed, only to find the contractor has used a different fastener than specified? Or perhaps you noticed a seasoning check on a glulam beam and were unsure whether it could jeopardize the integrity of the beam? With so much flexibility inherent […]
Key Parameters for Classical Design Methods
Structural software has become a daily necessity for structural engineers; however, it can be to an engineer’s detriment if the fundamental concepts of structural engineering are not well understood. Having a good understanding of how structures behave can prevent devastating errors that might be overlooked in a software program. Using classical design methods, engineers can […]
Importance of the Weld Ductility Factor in Bracing Connections
When designing bracing connections, have you been using a weld ductility factor on welds subjected to shear and transverse loads to allow for adequate redistribution of stresses? Although there have been multiple tests and papers showing the importance of this factor, some engineers are still unaware of its necessity which can result in underperforming bracing […]