NUST Institute of Civil Engineering

(Precast Concrete)

CE 310
Plain and Reinforced
Concrete II
Dr. Wasim
Khaliq

Spring 2014
 Precast concrete
"Precast concrete" means a concrete member that is cast
and cured at a location other than its final designated location
Precast concrete members may be solid or may contain
hollow cores. Many precast components have thinner cross
sections than cast in place concrete. Precast concrete may be
either normal or lightweight concrete
 Precast concrete
Theoretically there are no restrictions on the use of
skeletal framed precast construction. Irregular and
challenging architectural designs on many occasions
are more suitable to precast construction.
 Use of Precast concrete in Structures

Every construction material & system has its own characteristics which to a
greater or less extend influence the layout, span length, construction depth,
stability system, ect.
This is also the case for precast concrete , not only in comparison to steel,
wood, & masonry structures, but also with respect to cast in-situ concrete.
Theoretically, all joints between the precast units could be made in such a
way that the completed precast structure has the same monolithic concept as
a in-situ one.
However, this is a wrong approach & one, which is very labor intensive &
costly. If the full advantages of precast concrete are to be realized, the
structure should be conceived according to its specific design philosophy:
long spans, appropriate stability concept, simple details, ect.
Designers should from the very outset of the project consider the
possibilities, restrictions & advantages of precast concrete, its detailing,
manufacturer, transport, erection & serviceability stages before completing a
design in precast concrete.
 Precast concrete
Enables faster programme times - not affected by weather or labor shortages.
Improves build ability - early enclosure of dry envelope enables follow-on
trades to start sooner.
Produces a high standard of workmanship in factory conditions - reduces
potential for accidents, addresses on-site skill shortage.
Has a high quality finish that can be left exposed - concrete's thermal
properties can be exploited in low-energy buildings.
 Functions of Precast concrete
Primary functions
Keep water out
Prevent air leakage
Control light
Control radiation of heat
Control conduction of heat
Control sound
Secondary functions
Resist wind forces
Control water vapor
Adjust to movement
Thermal & moisture
expansion/contraction
Resist fire
Weather gracefully
Easy to install
 Functions of Precast concrete
Architectural precast concrete provides architects with an exciting medium when
designing facades for a wide range of buildings, from healthcare facilities to
shopping malls, commercial office buildings to sports stadiums
Complete thermal protection
Continuous air/vapor barrier
Effective rain screens
Superior lifespan
Reduced construction schedule and on-site labor
High quality control standards
Numerous finish options and colors
 Precast concrete Textures

1 Bush hammered, 2 Heavy grit blast, 3 Bush hammered, 4 Aggregate transfer, 5 Heavy grit blast, 6 Light
grit blast, 7 Acid etch, 8 Acid etch, 9 Heavy grit blast, 10 Heavy grit blast, 11 Medium grit blast, 12
Aggregate transfer and acid etch
Precast Concrete Patterns
Precast Concrete Slabs
Precast Concrete Beams
Precast Concrete Columns
Precast Concrete Columns
Precast Concrete Walls
Precast Concrete Braces and Stairs
Types of Connections in Precast Concrete
Structure
Beam Slab and Columns Connection