Multistory Precast Concrete Framed Buildings

In this paper, design and construction aspects of precast concrete moment resisting frames for the lateral load resistance of multi-storey buildings are described. Discussion concentrates on the particular aspects of the framing system of a 13 storey building constructed in Wellington, New Zealand. The building is octagonal in plan with a perimeter lateral load resisting frame consisting of two storey high precast reinforced concrete elements. Each element includes a column plus two levels of beam stubs. In-situ concrete mid-span beam splices and grouted steel sleeve column rebar splices form the joints between individual units. This paper briefly presents other similar precast systems used for multi-storey buildings. A review of laboratory testing recently completed, is given which confirms the good structural performance of the framing systems described.