Tilt Up Pre-cast - Lifting and Bracing
Tilt-up is an incredibly efficient and versatile method for constructing large, flat wall panels. And, like any other construction method, it's essential to consider the loads applied during and after construction. That's why knowing how to lift and brace tilt-up panels properly is so crucial.
Two main types of lifting and bracing hardware can be used for tilt-up construction — embedded recessed anchors and quick connect/disconnect hardware. Embedded recessed anchors are placed in the concrete before it dries, while quick connect/disconnect hardware is mounted on the slab's surface.
Coil inserts and lifting plates are also used in tilt-up construction. Coil inserts are placed in the holes drilled to receive lifting rods while lifting plates are used to connect the rods to the wall.
Bracing is another crucial element of tilt-up construction. Braces support the after they are placed in position. On panel bracing is attached to the wall after casting, while on floor slab bracing is attached to the floor after lifting in place.
When choosing lifting and bracing hardware for tilt-up construction, it is vital to consider the project's specific needs. The type of lifting and bracing hardware used will be determined by the size and weight of the walls being lifted and the height at which they will be installed. Quick connect/disconnect with embedded recessed anchors will be necessary for large and small projects. Coil inserts and lifting plates must also be chosen based on the size and weight of the walls.
Tilt-Up Lifting and Bracing Hardware Selection
Tilt-up construction is a method of building in which walls are cast on-site and then tilted into position. This type of construction requires specialized lifting and bracing hardware to ensure the safety of the workers and the structure itself.Two main types of lifting and bracing hardware can be used for tilt-up construction — embedded recessed anchors and quick connect/disconnect hardware. Embedded recessed anchors are placed in the concrete before it dries, while quick connect/disconnect hardware is mounted on the slab's surface.
Coil inserts and lifting plates are also used in tilt-up construction. Coil inserts are placed in the holes drilled to receive lifting rods while lifting plates are used to connect the rods to the wall.
Bracing is another crucial element of tilt-up construction. Braces support the after they are placed in position. On panel bracing is attached to the wall after casting, while on floor slab bracing is attached to the floor after lifting in place.
When choosing lifting and bracing hardware for tilt-up construction, it is vital to consider the project's specific needs. The type of lifting and bracing hardware used will be determined by the size and weight of the walls being lifted and the height at which they will be installed. Quick connect/disconnect with embedded recessed anchors will be necessary for large and small projects. Coil inserts and lifting plates must also be chosen based on the size and weight of the walls.
Adequate Supports for Tilt-Up Panels
Tilt-up bracing is an essential part of the construction process for tilt-up buildings. The walls could collapse during construction or a severe weather event without adequate bracing.Tilt-up bracing consists of horizontal and vertical members installed on the building's exterior walls. The horizontal members are typically installed at the base of the wall, extending to the top of the wall. The vertical members are installed on the corners of the wall, extending from the foundation to the top of the wall. The number and type of bracing members used will vary depending on the size and height of the wall, as well as other factors such as wind load and seismic activity in the area.
Several types of tilt-up braces are available on the market, each with their own unique advantages. It is crucial to select the correct type of brace for your particular project to ensure its safety and stability.
The most common type of tilt-up brace is the steel pipe. Steel pipes are typically made from one or two steel pipes that are bolted together. These pipes are placed on top of the columns or walls supporting the panel's weight.
Panel-to-panel connections are generally made using steel plates and bolts. The plates are fastened to the panels using either welds or mechanical fasteners. Bolts are used to join the panels together. The size and number of plates and bolts will vary depending on the loads.
Structural connections are often made using steel plates and bolts, while footing connections are generally made with concrete anchors. Slab-on-ground connections are typically made using dowels or expansion joints, and roof/elevated floor connections are most often made with metal fasteners.
When choosing a connection method, it is vital to consider the type of loads that will be applied to the connection and the environment in which the connection will be located.
For example, structural connections must be designed to resist tension and shear forces, while footing connections only need to resist compressive forces.
Similarly, slab-on-ground connections must be able to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction, while roof/elevated floor connections do not need to accommodate this movement.
How Are Tilt-Up Panels Connected?
Tilt-up panels are connected to each other and to the structure's frame using various methods, depending on the type of connection specified.Panel-to-panel connections are generally made using steel plates and bolts. The plates are fastened to the panels using either welds or mechanical fasteners. Bolts are used to join the panels together. The size and number of plates and bolts will vary depending on the loads.
Structural connections are often made using steel plates and bolts, while footing connections are generally made with concrete anchors. Slab-on-ground connections are typically made using dowels or expansion joints, and roof/elevated floor connections are most often made with metal fasteners.
When choosing a connection method, it is vital to consider the type of loads that will be applied to the connection and the environment in which the connection will be located.
For example, structural connections must be designed to resist tension and shear forces, while footing connections only need to resist compressive forces.
Similarly, slab-on-ground connections must be able to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction, while roof/elevated floor connections do not need to accommodate this movement.
Maintenance and Safety (Inspection) of Tilt-Up Braces
Tilt-up braces are one of the most critical safety features on a construction site. They support the weight of the tilt-up panels during construction and ensure that the panels are securely in place. They must be properly inspected and maintained to ensure the safety of the workers and the structure itself.A few common challenges can occur with tilt-up lifting and bracing. The first is that the braces can become damaged or weakened over time. This weakening can be due to weathering, general wear, or even vandalism. It is essential to regularly inspect the braces for any damage signs and repair or replace them as necessary.
Another challenge is that the braces used in lifting and bracing can sometimes become loose. This issue can happen if the bolts in place become loose or the ground around the braces settles.
It is essential to check the bolts' tightness regularly and ensure that the ground around the braces is level.
The final challenge is that lifting and bracing can sometimes interfere with other construction activities. This concern can happen if they are in the way of equipment or blocking access to certain areas. It is vital to work with the other construction crews to ensure that the braces are not in the way and are not causing any problems.
Safety is always the number one priority on a construction site. Tilt-up lifting and bracing are essential to the safety plan and must be adequately inspected and maintained.
Look no further than White Cap. We partner with great suppliers to assist field applications and make job site or technical visits. Our specialists have the knowledge and experience to get the job done right.
Contact us today if you're ready to get started on your next tilt-up lifting and bracing project. We look forward to helping you build something amazing!
The final challenge is that lifting and bracing can sometimes interfere with other construction activities. This concern can happen if they are in the way of equipment or blocking access to certain areas. It is vital to work with the other construction crews to ensure that the braces are not in the way and are not causing any problems.
Safety is always the number one priority on a construction site. Tilt-up lifting and bracing are essential to the safety plan and must be adequately inspected and maintained.
Need a Knowledgeable Team to Help With Your Next Project?
Look no further than White Cap. We partner with great suppliers to assist field applications and make job site or technical visits. Our specialists have the knowledge and experience to get the job done right.Contact us today if you're ready to get started on your next tilt-up lifting and bracing project. We look forward to helping you build something amazing!
