shaping south asia issue 01-2012
DESCRIPTION
IN THIS EDITION Structural Specialists talk about Seismic Design Visual Transparency Façade Solution for IFC 2, Jakarta Interview with the Bangkok Post: Building Design Complacency Shaken UpPro le: Meet Mick Atkin, BMU SpecialistTRANSCRIPT
SOUTH ASIAISSUE 01 2012
Q&AREGIONAL CEO GLOBAL NEWS
ONE RAFFLES QUAY, SINGAPORE
IN THIS EDITIONStructural Specialists talk about Seismic Design
Visual Transparency Façade Solution for IFC 2, Jakarta
Interview with the Bangkok Post: Building Design Complacency Shaken Up
Pro�le: Meet Mick Atkin, BMU Specialist
SOUTH ASIAISSUE 01 2012
Regional CEO, South Asia
WELCOME TO SHAPING SOUTH ASIA
John Pollard
Regional CEO Message
A happy 2012 to all. In this new year of the dragon, we bring you a
brand new issue of SHAPING South Asia. 2011 was a fruitful year for
Meinhardt as we advanced further as a Group. This issue illustrates
our efforts and the high quality which we strive to deliver in our
projects.
Meinhardt’s experience and specialist expertise in structures can be
seen in our extensive track record over the past years. To
further develop our capabilities, we do encourage and
explore the possibilities of cross-geographical
collaborations among our structural specialists in
various of�ces. Here, we have a special feature
in which the Singapore and Australian structure
specialists discuss such collaborations and the
trends and developments on seismic design,
followed by an insight into earthquake risks in
Bangkok by one of our Thai seismic design
specialists.
Our combination of local expertise in
of�ces throughout Asia, together with
support from experts in our international
of�ces, forms a formidable team to deliver
original designs.
In Meinhardt, we value our people as they play a
key role in our development. Here we are delighted to
announce two key recent appointments. We now have
Peter Galvin on board as Regional CEO for Australia
and Dean Thornton as Manager, Urban and
Landscape Design, Australia. In addition, this issue
features Mick Atkin, BMU specialist for Meinhardt
Facade.
I hope you will enjoy reading this edition of
SHAPING South Asia and I look forward to hearing
your feedback.
Content
INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE, JAKARTA
Q&A WITH OUR STRUCTURAL EXPERTS
BUILDING DESIGN COMPLACENCY SHAKEN UP
CATERPILLAR TRACTOR FACILITIES, THAILAND
PETER GALVIN DEAN THORNTON MICK ATKIN
Understanding Seismic DesignA thorough comprehension of seismic design is essential in creating a building structure that can withstand earthquakes. However, seismic design considerations vary for different infrastructure projects, ranging from low-rise to high-rise buildings, metros and bridges. In addition, new trends have emerged over the past years which might form important design considerations. In this discussion, we have invited representatives from our structural specialist groups to explore these topics and discuss the possibilities of future collaboration.
What makes an effective seismic design? What are the differences in the seismic
impact and design between low-rise and
high-rise buildings?Juneid: The essence of successful seismic design is
the collaboration within the design team, especially the
architect and the structural engineer. Seismic design is
unique in the sense that, unlike other common load
conditions such as gravity or wind, design forces are
based on the assumption that a signi�cant amount of
inelastic behaviour will take place in the structure during
a design earthquake. In nearly all buildings designed
today, survival in large earthquakes depends directly on
the ability of the building’s structural system to dissipate
energy while undergoing large inelastic deformations.
The key to an effective structural seismic design
therefore lies in the initial concept design of the structure
which needs close collaboration with the architect. The
broad guiding principles of a good seismic structural
design are:
It is important to note that complex analysis or design
techniques should not be used to justify a poor concept
design �outing the above fundamentals.
Juneid: During an earthquake, buildings oscillate, but
not all buildings respond to an earthquake equally.
Low-rise buildings have short natural periods and are
excited by short wavelength, high frequency seismic
waves. High-rise buildings, on the other hand, have long
natural periods and are excited by long wavelength, low
frequency seismic waves. If the frequency of oscillation of
the ground is close to the natural frequency of the
building, resonance (high amplitude continued oscillation)
may cause severe damage. In the 1985 Mexico City
earthquake, over half of the buildings that collapsed were
around 20 stories tall because the natural periods of
those buildings matched the ground movements during
the earthquake.
In general, studies of performances under recorded
earthquakes indicate that if buildings of all heights
receive the same level of attention to design and
workmanship, tall buildings are safer than shorter (stiffer)
ones when subjected to ground motions caused by an
earthquake. This is because tall buildings vibrate slower
than shorter buildings and are less likely to be excited by
ground motions recorded till date for most earthquakes.
Peter: A critical factor that must be taken into
consideration for high-rise building designs is the wind
load. Wind tunnel testing must be done to ensure an
ef�cient building design. In Australia, for low-rise
buildings with large �oor plate (equivalent to large mass
per �oor), seismic will be critical in particular for important
post disaster structures such as hospitals but low-rise
basic design is still adopted.
On the other hand, there are more challenging issues in
high-rise design such as long term concrete shortening
and active damping or isolation for movement control
(seismic or wind).
Re�ections at Keppel BaySingapore
Ensuring competent load path with direct transmis-
sion of seismic forces to the ground
Providing redundancy
Avoiding con�guration irregularities through uniformity
and symmetry
Avoiding excessive mass
Providing appropriate torsional resistance
Detailing for controlled energy dissipation
Limiting deformation demands
Group Design Director – StructuralMeinhardt [email protected]
Design Director/ Specialist Engineering Manager - StructuresMeinhardt [email protected]
Director/ General Manager - StructuresMeinhardt [email protected]
Senior Engineer - StructuresMeinhardt [email protected]
Juneid Qureshi
Mark Hennessy Doug Wallace
Peter Placzek
Q&A WITH OUR STRUCTURAL EXPERTS
Understanding Seismic DesignA thorough comprehension of seismic design is essential in creating a building structure that can withstand earthquakes. However, seismic design considerations vary for different infrastructure projects, ranging from low-rise to high-rise buildings, metros and bridges. In addition, new trends have emerged over the past years which might form important design considerations. In this discussion, we have invited representatives from our structural specialist groups to explore these topics and discuss the possibilities of future collaboration.
What makes an effective seismic design? What are the differences in the seismic
impact and design between low-rise and
high-rise buildings?Juneid: The essence of successful seismic design is
the collaboration within the design team, especially the
architect and the structural engineer. Seismic design is
unique in the sense that, unlike other common load
conditions such as gravity or wind, design forces are
based on the assumption that a signi�cant amount of
inelastic behaviour will take place in the structure during
a design earthquake. In nearly all buildings designed
today, survival in large earthquakes depends directly on
the ability of the building’s structural system to dissipate
energy while undergoing large inelastic deformations.
The key to an effective structural seismic design
therefore lies in the initial concept design of the structure
which needs close collaboration with the architect. The
broad guiding principles of a good seismic structural
design are:
It is important to note that complex analysis or design
techniques should not be used to justify a poor concept
design �outing the above fundamentals.
Juneid: During an earthquake, buildings oscillate, but
not all buildings respond to an earthquake equally.
Low-rise buildings have short natural periods and are
excited by short wavelength, high frequency seismic
waves. High-rise buildings, on the other hand, have long
natural periods and are excited by long wavelength, low
frequency seismic waves. If the frequency of oscillation of
the ground is close to the natural frequency of the
building, resonance (high amplitude continued oscillation)
may cause severe damage. In the 1985 Mexico City
earthquake, over half of the buildings that collapsed were
around 20 stories tall because the natural periods of
those buildings matched the ground movements during
the earthquake.
In general, studies of performances under recorded
earthquakes indicate that if buildings of all heights
receive the same level of attention to design and
workmanship, tall buildings are safer than shorter (stiffer)
ones when subjected to ground motions caused by an
earthquake. This is because tall buildings vibrate slower
than shorter buildings and are less likely to be excited by
ground motions recorded till date for most earthquakes.
Peter: For low seismic risk zones such as Australia and
Singapore, a critical factor that must be taken into
consideration for high-rise building designs is the wind
load. Wind tunnel testing must be done to ensure an
ef�cient building design. In Australia, for low-rise
buildings with large �oor plate (equivalent to large mass
per �oor), seismic will be critical in particular for important
post disaster structures such as hospitals.
There are more challenging issues in high-rise design
such as long term concrete shortening and active
damping or isolation for movement control (seismic or
wind).
Re�ections at Keppel BaySingapore
Ensuring competent load path with direct transmis-
sion of seismic forces to the ground
Providing redundancy
Avoiding con�guration irregularities through uniformity
and symmetry
Avoiding excessive mass
Providing appropriate torsional resistance
Detailing for controlled energy dissipation
Limiting deformation demands
Group Design Director – StructuralMeinhardt [email protected]
Design Director/ Specialist Engineering Manager - StructuresMeinhardt [email protected]
Director/ General Manager - StructuresMeinhardt [email protected]
Senior Engineer - StructuresMeinhardt [email protected]
Juneid Qureshi
Mark Hennessy Doug Wallace
Peter Placzek
Q&A WITH OUR STRUCTURAL EXPERTS
Are there any special considerations for infrastructure projects such as metros and bridges?
What are the trends in seismic design? Do you see these factors becoming important design consideration?
Juneid: Earthquake resilient infrastructure is an important
consideration for an effective disaster response and quick
reconstruction activities after a seismic event.
For infrastructure systems, in addition to structural
vulnerability, functional vulnerability has to be carefully
considered. Examples of infrastructures which are
particularly important during disasters include Public
Service buildings (hospitals, police stations, and �re
stations), Transportation systems (bridges, highways,
roads, airports, subways, and harbours), Water and
Sewerage Supply systems, Telecommunication systems,
Energy Supply systems (electricity, gas, fuel pipelines) etc.
Of course not all subsystems of the infrastructure require
the same level of importance since not every public service
needs to function to the same extent as in normal times.
The de�nition of “critical” infrastructure by relevant
authorities is therefore important.
The seismic design of “critical” infrastructure systems
requires consideration of higher resistance and reduced
damage.
b) Multiple levels of ground shaking can be evaluated,
with a different level of performance speci�ed for each
level of ground shaking.
c) Target building performance levels range from
Continued Operation, in which the building and
nonstructural components are expected to sustain almost
no damage in response to the design earthquake, to
Collapse Prevention, in which the structure should remain
standing, but is extensively damaged.
d) Speci�c ductility factors can be speci�ed for each
component of the seismic force-resisting system. The
ductility factor varies and depends on the target building
performance level, material type, and the relative ductility
of the component.
In short, the PBD philosophy allows the selection of
innovative framing systems and materials and through
non-linear assessment of building response for speci�c
performance objectives under various levels of ground
shaking, leading to more reliable and cost-effective
structural solutions.
Doug: PDB is an advanced method in which a level of
acceptable damage is established and used in the push
over type design method. A push over analysis involves a
non-linear analysis (i.e. yielding of the structural elements
is modelled) where a lateral load is applied and increased
gradually at all storeys. It reveals elements that will yield
�rst as the building is pushed over and how the load will
be redistributed in the structure.
In general, linear procedures are applicable when the
structure is expected to remain nearly elastic for the level
of ground motion or when the design results in nearly
uniform distribution of nonlinear response throughout the
structure. As the performance objective of the structure
implies greater inelastic demands, the uncertainty with
linear procedures increases to a point that requires a high
level of conservatism in demand assumptions and
acceptability criteria to avoid unintended performance.
Therefore, procedures incorporating inelastic analysis can
reduce the uncertainty and conservatism.
Juneid: The current trend in seismic design, especially for
high-rise buildings in regions of strong earthquake ground
motions, is the adoption of Performance Based Design
(PBD).
PBD has the following distinguishing characteristics which
are not explicitly covered by prescriptive Building Codes:
a) It allows the choice of both appropriate level of ground
shaking and level of protection for that ground motion.
Craigieburn BypassCraigieburn, Australia
Ocean HeightsDubai, U.A.E.
Are there any special considerations for infrastructure projects such as metros and bridges?
What are the trends in seismic design? Do you see these factors becoming important design consideration?
Juneid: Earthquake resilient infrastructure is an important
consideration for an effective disaster response and quick
reconstruction activities after a seismic event.
For infrastructure systems, in addition to structural
vulnerability, functional vulnerability has to be carefully
considered. Examples of infrastructures which are
particularly important during disasters include Public
Service buildings (hospitals, police stations, and �re
stations), Transportation systems (bridges, highways,
roads, airports, subways, and harbours), Water and
Sewerage Supply systems, Telecommunication systems,
Energy Supply systems (electricity, gas, fuel pipelines) etc.
Of course not all subsystems of the infrastructure require
the same level of importance since not every public service
needs to function to the same extent as in normal times.
The de�nition of “critical” infrastructure by relevant
authorities is therefore important.
The seismic design of “critical” infrastructure systems
requires consideration of higher resistance and reduced
damage.
b) Multiple levels of ground shaking can be evaluated,
with a different level of performance speci�ed for each
level of ground shaking.
c) Target building performance levels range from
Continued Operation, in which the building and
nonstructural components are expected to sustain almost
no damage in response to the design earthquake, to
Collapse Prevention, in which the structure should remain
standing, but is extensively damaged.
d) Speci�c ductility factors can be speci�ed for each
component of the seismic force-resisting system. The
ductility factor varies and depends on the target building
performance level, material type, and the relative ductility
of the component.
In short, the PBD philosophy allows the selection of
innovative framing systems and materials and through
non-linear assessment of building response for speci�c
performance objectives under various levels of ground
shaking, leading to more reliable and cost-effective
structural solutions.
Doug: PDB is an advanced method in which a level of
acceptable damage is established and used in the push
over type design method. A push over analysis involves a
non-linear analysis (i.e. yielding of the structural elements
is modelled) where a lateral load is applied and increased
gradually at all storeys. It reveals elements that will yield
�rst as the building is pushed over and how the load will
be redistributed in the structure.
In general, linear procedures are applicable when the
structure is expected to remain nearly elastic for the level
of ground motion or when the design results in nearly
uniform distribution of nonlinear response throughout the
structure. As the performance objective of the structure
implies greater inelastic demands, the uncertainty with
linear procedures increases to a point that requires a high
level of conservatism in demand assumptions and
acceptability criteria to avoid unintended performance.
Therefore, procedures incorporating inelastic analysis can
reduce the uncertainty and conservatism.
Juneid: The current trend in seismic design, especially for
high-rise buildings in regions of strong earthquake ground
motions, is the adoption of Performance Based Design
(PBD).
PBD has the following distinguishing characteristics which
are not explicitly covered by prescriptive Building Codes:
a) It allows the choice of both appropriate level of ground
shaking and level of protection for that ground motion.
Craigieburn BypassCraigieburn, Australia
Ocean HeightsDubai, U.A.E.
Where do you see possible collaborations
and synergies between both teams?
Singapore and the Malay Peninsula are examples of
such regions with low seismicity but high exposure. It is
important for a detailed risk assessment to be carried
out for such structures to obtain a composite risk rating
of seismic hazard and building performance.
Mark: With many specialists that have great experience
and expertise in our of�ces worldwide, I de�nitely see the
possibility of cross-geographical collaborations. With
that, there needs to be a better understanding of the
various of�ces capabilities, key peoples expertise and
project experience so that we can leverage more on this
capability.
In Australia, we have worked on a number of Large Span
Steel Hangars, Varying Types and Size Complex
Structures over the years. I do anticipate that future
projects will come up soon which our team can bene�t
from the sharing of expertise within other group of�ces.
We would very much enjoy the opportunity to collaborate
with any of our international of�ces where appropriate.
Juneid: We have collaborated in the past with other
of�ces in the group for some of our major projects, but
we need to team-up more often.
With more structured collaboration and knowledge
sharing between various of�ces, I am of the opinion, that
we can provide engineering solutions that would be
second to none.
One Raf�es QuaySingapore
Signature TowersDubai, U.A.E.
This approach is also known as "pushover" analysis. A
pattern of forces is applied to a structural model that
includes non-linear properties (such as steel yield), and
the total force is plotted against a reference
displacement to de�ne a capacity curve. This can then
be combined with a demand curve, typically in the form
of an acceleration-displacement response spectrum
(ADRS). This essentially reduces the problem to a single
degree of freedom (SDOF) system. Nonlinear static
procedures use equivalent SDOF structural models and
represent seismic ground motion with response spectra.
Story drifts and component actions are related
subsequently to the global demand parameter by the
pushover or capacity curves that are the basis of the
non-linear static procedure.
Juneid: A recent trend for high-rise buildings in regions
of high seismicity as well as strong winds is the
increasing use of supplemental damping systems
(energy dissipating devices). The structural design of
such buildings is often governed by con�icting
requirements of ef�cient performance under wind and
seismic loads. Generally for high-rise buildings, under
wind loads, the stiffer the structure, the better is the
dynamic performance. However, a stiff structure attracts
higher seismic forces. The solution to this is the
introduction of a supplementary damping system to the
structure which not only reduces the wind response
without the need for additional stiffening, but reduces
the seismic forces as well. This leads to a more ef�cient
structural system, better performance and cost savings.
Another latest development in seismic hazard
assessment is the realization in many low seismicity
countries in Southeast Asia, that large but infrequent
distant earthquakes might pose real problems when
they occur. As a result of rapid economic growth and
development in Southeast Asia, many high-rise
buildings and complex infrastructure systems have been
constructed on less favourable sites such as soft soils
or reclaimed land.
Where do you see possible collaborations
and synergies between both teams?
Singapore and the Malay Peninsula are examples of
such regions with low seismicity but high exposure. It is
important for a detailed risk assessment to be carried
out for such structures to obtain a composite risk rating
of seismic hazard and building performance.
Mark: With many specialists that have great experience
and expertise in our of�ces worldwide, I de�nitely see the
possibility of cross-geographical collaborations. With
that, there needs to be a better understanding of the
various of�ces capabilities, key peoples expertise and
project experience so that we can leverage more on this
capability.
In Australia, we have worked on a number of Large Span
Steel Hangars, Varying Types and Size Complex
Structures over the years. I do anticipate that future
projects will come up soon which our team can bene�t
from the sharing of expertise within other group of�ces.
We would very much enjoy the opportunity to collaborate
with any of our international of�ces where appropriate.
Juneid: We have collaborated in the past with other
of�ces in the group for some of our major projects, but
we need to team-up more often.
With more structured collaboration and knowledge
sharing between various of�ces, I am of the opinion, that
we can provide engineering solutions that would be
second to none.
One Raf�es QuaySingapore
Signature TowersDubai, U.A.E.
This approach is also known as "pushover" analysis. A
pattern of forces is applied to a structural model that
includes non-linear properties (such as steel yield), and
the total force is plotted against a reference
displacement to de�ne a capacity curve. This can then
be combined with a demand curve, typically in the form
of an acceleration-displacement response spectrum
(ADRS). This essentially reduces the problem to a single
degree of freedom (SDOF) system. Nonlinear static
procedures use equivalent SDOF structural models and
represent seismic ground motion with response spectra.
Story drifts and component actions are related
subsequently to the global demand parameter by the
pushover or capacity curves that are the basis of the
non-linear static procedure.
Juneid: A recent trend for high-rise buildings in regions
of high seismicity as well as strong winds is the
increasing use of supplemental damping systems
(energy dissipating devices). The structural design of
such buildings is often governed by con�icting
requirements of ef�cient performance under wind and
seismic loads. Generally for high-rise buildings, under
wind loads, the stiffer the structure, the better is the
dynamic performance. However, a stiff structure attracts
higher seismic forces. The solution to this is the
introduction of a supplementary damping system to the
structure which not only reduces the wind response
without the need for additional stiffening, but reduces
the seismic forces as well. This leads to a more ef�cient
structural system, better performance and cost savings.
Another latest development in seismic hazard
assessment is the realization in many low seismicity
countries in Southeast Asia, that large but infrequent
distant earthquakes might pose real problems when
they occur. As a result of rapid economic growth and
development in Southeast Asia, many high-rise
buildings and complex infrastructure systems have been
constructed on less favourable sites such as soft soils
or reclaimed land.
Client:PT. Kepland Investama
Design Architect: NBBJ, New York
Local Architect:PDW, Jakarta
Structure, M&E: T.Y. Lin
Green Consultant: Kaer
Mr Domenico F. LioArchitect at NBBJ
International Financial Centre, Tower 2
Meinhardt offers distinctive visual transparency as façade solutionPT Kepland Investama has enlisted Meinhardt in the development of a new tower for the International Financial Centre (IFC) in Jakarta, Indonesia. Although it will only reach completion in 2013, IFC 2 aims to achieve the Green Mark Gold to recognise its energy ef�cient features.
Situated a mere 1.2-metre distance away from Tower One, the
construction of IFC 2 presents signi�cant challenges due to its
constrained site conditions. In response to these challenges,
Meinhardt’s team developed a total façade and BMU system that
can be installed easily onto the building.
Due to the close proximity of the towers and to meet the authority
requirements, light weight and translucent glass panels are
integrated within the curtainwall. These panels offer varying
degrees of light transmission and visual privacy for the occupants.
In addition, as the building design features ten different angles, the
glass panels are specially positioned to let in the natural sunlight,
creating a feeling of transparency and openness. The angles are
synchronised with the surrounding buildings, enhancing the
environment aesthetically.
As Mr Domenico F. Lio, lead architect of NBBJ, pointed out: “the
soft natural light �lls spaces that would otherwise require arti�cial
illumination, additional energy, and also have a potential impact
on lease rates.”
The 64,000-square metre development will be fully enclosed with
curtain wall and high performing low-E coated insulated glass,
allowing it to comply with the Green Mark Gold requirements set
by the Building Construction Authority in Singapore.
Timothy [email protected] Senior Façade Consultant, Singapore
The soft natural light �lls spaces that would otherwise require arti�cial illumination, additional energy, and also have a potential impact on lease rates.
FAÇADE ENGINEERING
Client:PT. Kepland Investama
Design Architect: NBBJ, New York
Local Architect:PDW, Jakarta
Structure, M&E: T.Y. Lin
Green Consultant: Kaer
Mr Domenico F. LioArchitect at NBBJ
International Financial Centre, Tower 2
Meinhardt offers distinctive visual transparency as façade solutionPT Kepland Investama has enlisted Meinhardt in the development of a new tower for the International Financial Centre (IFC) in Jakarta, Indonesia. Although it will only reach completion in 2013, IFC 2 aims to achieve the Green Mark Gold to recognise its energy ef�cient features.
Situated a mere 1.2-metre distance away from Tower One, the
construction of IFC 2 presents signi�cant challenges due to its
constrained site conditions. In response to these challenges,
Meinhardt’s team developed a total façade and BMU system that
can be installed easily onto the building.
Due to the close proximity of the towers and to meet the authority
requirements, light weight and translucent glass panels are
integrated within the curtainwall. These panels offer varying
degrees of light transmission and visual privacy for the occupants.
In addition, as the building design features ten different angles, the
glass panels are specially positioned to let in the natural sunlight,
creating a feeling of transparency and openness. The angles are
synchronised with the surrounding buildings, enhancing the
environment aesthetically.
As Mr Domenico F. Lio, lead architect of NBBJ, pointed out: “the
soft natural light �lls spaces that would otherwise require arti�cial
illumination, additional energy, and also have a potential impact
on lease rates.”
The 64,000-square metre development will be fully enclosed with
curtain wall and high performing low-E coated insulated glass,
allowing it to comply with the Green Mark Gold requirements set
by the Building Construction Authority in Singapore.
Timothy [email protected] Senior Façade Consultant, Singapore
The soft natural light �lls spaces that would otherwise require arti�cial illumination, additional energy, and also have a potential impact on lease rates.
FAÇADE ENGINEERING
Building design complacency shaken up In an exclusive interview with Bangkok Post, Dr. Praween Chusilp, Executive Structural Engineer of Meinhardt, spoke about the structural safety of buildings against the backdrop of the Burmese earthquake which has affected northern Thailand. SHAPING reproduces extracts of the article here.
The March 24 Burmese earthquake, which registered 6.8 in
magnitude, has raised public concerns about the structural safety
of buildings in Bangkok and elsewhere in Thailand. Even though
Bangkok is located far from earthquake sources, it is not immune
to earthquake hazards. The city is underlain by thick, soft layers of
clay capable of amplifying seismic waves emanating from distant
earthquakes by three to �ve times.
“The soft clay also �lters seismic wave characteristics and tunes
the predominant period of ground shaking to about one second.
As the natural period of ten to 20-storey buildings closely matches
the shaking period, these buildings tend to respond violently due
to resonance, “says Dr. Praween.
Medium-rise buildings (ten to 30 storeys) in Bangkok are more
susceptible to damage, while high-rises have a better chance of
survival in a strong earthquake. Improperly constructed
non-structural elements of buildings such as facades or partition
walls can be a source of falling debris and pose the greatest threat
to human life.
“Based on our study, the typical cost difference between
medium-rise buildings with and without earthquake designs is 10
to 15% of the structural cost or 3 to 5% of the project cost,” says
Dr. Praween.
In 2009, the Public Works and Town & Country Planning
Department promulgated an alternative earthquake design
standard for buildings.
This standard �gures in lower yet more rational seismic design
forces for medium-rise standards in Bangkok, with resonance
effects also taken into account. Most buildings endorsed before
2007 were designed only for lateral loads arising due to winds, in
accordance with Bangkok Metropolitan Administration
regulations, which can help to resist some earthquake force. In
many cases such as high-rise of more than 40 storeys, wind
forces are likely to be stronger than those generated by
earthquake ground motions.
The safety of an old building in an earthquake cannot be veri�ed
simply by considering its lateral strength alone. Unlike wind
design, earthquake-resistant buildings require not only strength,
but also ductility or pliability.
Insuf�cient ductility provisions of old buildings are an added
factor reducing their earthquake-resistant capability. Dr. Praween
explains that in order to assess the safety of old buildings, a
seismic evaluation based on standards of the American Society
of Civil Engineers (ASCE 31) is recommended.
“Considering Bangkok’s low seismic intensity, the
conventional earthquake design prescribed by present codes
should be adequate,” he says. “But an alternative,
economical approach would be to add dampers to a building
to dissipate energy.”
When ground tremors are strong, these devices dissipate seismic
energy, minimising damage to the primary building structure.
Dampers can be added to new or old buildings, but this should
be done by quali�ed experts.
Praween [email protected] Executive Structural Engineer, Thailand
Adding dampers in building frame enhances the dissipation of seismic energy and lowers the structural cost.
Computer model of a 30-storey seismic-resistant building in Bangkok.
Meinhardt designed a 30-storey seismic-resistant building located on
Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok.
CIVIL & STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
Building design complacency shaken up In an exclusive interview with Bangkok Post, Dr. Praween Chusilp, Executive Structural Engineer of Meinhardt, spoke about the structural safety of buildings against the backdrop of the Burmese earthquake which has affected northern Thailand. SHAPING reproduces extracts of the article here.
The March 24 Burmese earthquake, which registered 6.8 in
magnitude, has raised public concerns about the structural safety
of buildings in Bangkok and elsewhere in Thailand. Even though
Bangkok is located far from earthquake sources, it is not immune
to earthquake hazards. The city is underlain by thick, soft layers of
clay capable of amplifying seismic waves emanating from distant
earthquakes by three to �ve times.
“The soft clay also �lters seismic wave characteristics and tunes
the predominant period of ground shaking to about one second.
As the natural period of ten to 20-storey buildings closely matches
the shaking period, these buildings tend to respond violently due
to resonance, “says Dr. Praween.
Medium-rise buildings (ten to 30 storeys) in Bangkok are more
susceptible to damage, while high-rises have a better chance of
survival in a strong earthquake. Improperly constructed
non-structural elements of buildings such as facades or partition
walls can be a source of falling debris and pose the greatest threat
to human life.
“Based on our study, the typical cost difference between
medium-rise buildings with and without earthquake designs is 10
to 15% of the structural cost or 3 to 5% of the project cost,” says
Dr. Praween.
In 2009, the Public Works and Town & Country Planning
Department promulgated an alternative earthquake design
standard for buildings.
This standard �gures in lower yet more rational seismic design
forces for medium-rise standards in Bangkok, with resonance
effects also taken into account. Most buildings endorsed before
2007 were designed only for lateral loads arising due to winds, in
accordance with Bangkok Metropolitan Administration
regulations, which can help to resist some earthquake force. In
many cases such as high-rise of more than 40 storeys, wind
forces are likely to be stronger than those generated by
earthquake ground motions.
The safety of an old building in an earthquake cannot be veri�ed
simply by considering its lateral strength alone. Unlike wind
design, earthquake-resistant buildings require not only strength,
but also ductility or pliability.
Insuf�cient ductility provisions of old buildings are an added
factor reducing their earthquake-resistant capability. Dr. Praween
explains that in order to assess the safety of old buildings, a
seismic evaluation based on standards of the American Society
of Civil Engineers (ASCE 31) is recommended.
“Considering Bangkok’s low seismic intensity, the
conventional earthquake design prescribed by present codes
should be adequate,” he says. “But an alternative,
economical approach would be to add dampers to a building
to dissipate energy.”
When ground tremors are strong, these devices dissipate seismic
energy, minimising damage to the primary building structure.
Dampers can be added to new or old buildings, but this should
be done by quali�ed experts.
Praween [email protected] Executive Structural Engineer, Thailand
Adding dampers in building frame enhances the dissipation of seismic energy and lowers the structural cost.
Computer model of a 30-storey seismic-resistant building in Bangkok.
Meinhardt designed a 30-storey seismic-resistant building located on
Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok.
CIVIL & STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
An ef�cient plant design focused on risk managementGiven its unique production environment, safety is the number one priority in all of Caterpillar’s operations worldwide. The US-based, construction equipment manufacturer has commissioned Meinhardt for its two new facilities in Thailand, with plant safety as the foremost consideration in the engineering design.
With this in mind, Meinhardt partnered FM Global, a mutual
insurance company, to identify solutions to prevent property
hazards and risks. The result is a tailored engineering design that
is well planned from the start, with adequate capacity to manage
physical hazards and reduce the plant’s susceptibility to loss by
�re, �ood and earthquake, among other perils.
This ‘risk management design’ is applied conscientiously in the
two production facilities located in the Hemaraj Rayong Industrial
Land - one of which will manufacture medium track-type tractors
and another for underground mining machinery.
Project Director, Mr Theera Wattanasup said: “As Meinhardt is
experienced and familiar with FM Global’s requirements, the
team was able to design and manage both projects in a fast
track manner. This provided a distinct advantage that allowed
us to meet our client’s schedule and expected quality within
reasonable construction costs.”
The two new production facilities will be completed by late 2012
in anticipation of the on-going infrastructure development plans
and growing demand for commodities around the region.
Theera [email protected] Director (Civil & Structural), Thailand
INTEGRATED SOLUTION
An ef�cient plant design focused on risk managementGiven its unique production environment, safety is the number one priority in all of Caterpillar’s operations worldwide. The US-based, construction equipment manufacturer has commissioned Meinhardt for its two new facilities in Thailand, with plant safety as the foremost consideration in the engineering design.
With this in mind, Meinhardt partnered FM Global, a mutual
insurance company, to identify solutions to prevent property
hazards and risks. The result is a tailored engineering design that
is well planned from the start, with adequate capacity to manage
physical hazards and reduce the plant’s susceptibility to loss by
�re, �ood and earthquake, among other perils.
This ‘risk management design’ is applied conscientiously in the
two production facilities located in the Hemaraj Rayong Industrial
Land - one of which will manufacture medium track-type tractors
and another for underground mining machinery.
Project Director, Mr Theera Wattanasup said: “As Meinhardt is
experienced and familiar with FM Global’s requirements, the
team was able to design and manage both projects in a fast
track manner. This provided a distinct advantage that allowed
us to meet our client’s schedule and expected quality within
reasonable construction costs.”
The two new production facilities will be completed by late 2012
in anticipation of the on-going infrastructure development plans
and growing demand for commodities around the region.
Theera [email protected] Director (Civil & Structural), Thailand
INTEGRATED SOLUTION
01 02 03 04 05 06
New BMU specialist for Meinhardt
Why Meinhardt
Having worked as a sub-contractor on
multiple projects where Meinhardt was
the façade consultant, I was impressed
with the company’s professional
approach and technical knowledge.
Meinhardt has de�nitely a major
advantage over the competition as both
of the BMU and façade packages
bene�t from having a consultant that can
integrate the design from day one.
Your career before Meinhardt
I was previously with a BMU
manufacturer for over 10 years, gaining
substantial BMU experience on projects
around the world. I covered all aspects
of the project from initial sales and
concept work, through to procurement,
manufacturing, and installation and
commissioning. This hands-on
experience has exposed me to issues
that can come up with BMU designs
and also the best ways we go about
solving them.
Why BMU design
From the start, I was drawn to the fact that no
two projects are ever the same, so you have a
constant supply of new design problems to
overcome. It keeps the job interesting and
you are always learning new things. Each day
can be a challenge, but in retrospect it is
rewarding and keeps you thinking.
Your best work to date and why
I am proud to say I have worked on
major iconic buildings in the U.A.E such
as Burj Khalifa and Aldar HQ. The
growth in this country has allowed for
completely unique buildings designs,
which of course needed unique
solutions to all aspects of their design.
As a BMU specialist for Meinhardt facade, what will your role entail
Not only will I be directly involved in BMU
projects, I will be able to ful�l a mentor role
to assist my colleagues that are specialised
in the façade design discipline. This will
enable Meinhardt to bring on multi-skilled
consultants to the table, on each project
that we undertake around the world,
offering a �rst class service to the client.
Why should property owners take BMU design and audit seriously
Although the façade is not the most expensive
component of a building, it is the most visual one.
Clients pay for the best architects to provide
cutting-edge designs to make their building stand
out. But in the years to come, if the building
façade is not well-kept or maintained properly, this
is what the public will see.
Building maintenance units are more than just
glass cleaning devices, you need to consider
maintenance and replacement of aircraft warning
lights, façade lighting features, replacement of
broken glass and leaking seals.
As buildings become increasingly tall and complex,
BMU designs too are becoming increasingly
complicated. It is de�nitely in the clients’ best
interest to take this matter very seriously, and to
integrate the BMU design into the façade package
and overall architectural package as early as
possible into the design cycle.
Mick [email protected]
Building Maintenance Unit (BMU) plays an important role in façade maintenance and cleaning of the structure. BMUs can be permanently installed onto the building or the structure, and are usually located within the roof and mechanical services. Particularly where the building envelope has a complex shape, the BMU needs to be �exible enough to navigate its way and access the tough spots for cleaning or replacement of façade materials.
What is BMU?
GLOBAL NEWS
01 02 03 04 05 06
New BMU specialist for Meinhardt
Why Meinhardt
Having worked as a sub-contractor on
multiple projects where Meinhardt was
the façade consultant, I was impressed
with the company’s professional
approach and technical knowledge.
Meinhardt has de�nitely a major
advantage over the competition as both
of the BMU and façade packages
bene�t from having a consultant that can
integrate the design from day one.
Your career before Meinhardt
I was previously with a BMU
manufacturer for over 10 years, gaining
substantial BMU experience on projects
around the world. I covered all aspects
of the project from initial sales and
concept work, through to procurement,
manufacturing, and installation and
commissioning. This hands-on
experience has exposed me to issues
that can come up with BMU designs
and also the best ways we go about
solving them.
Why BMU design
From the start, I was drawn to the fact that no
two projects are ever the same, so you have a
constant supply of new design problems to
overcome. It keeps the job interesting and
you are always learning new things. Each day
can be a challenge, but in retrospect it is
rewarding and keeps you thinking.
Your best work to date and why
I am proud to say I have worked on
major iconic buildings in the U.A.E such
as Burj Khalifa and Aldar HQ. The
growth in this country has allowed for
completely unique buildings designs,
which of course needed unique
solutions to all aspects of their design.
As a BMU specialist for Meinhardt facade, what will your role entail
Not only will I be directly involved in BMU
projects, I will be able to ful�l a mentor role
to assist my colleagues that are specialised
in the façade design discipline. This will
enable Meinhardt to bring on multi-skilled
consultants to the table, on each project
that we undertake around the world,
offering a �rst class service to the client.
Why should property owners take BMU design and audit seriously
Although the façade is not the most expensive
component of a building, it is the most visual one.
Clients pay for the best architects to provide
cutting-edge designs to make their building stand
out. But in the years to come, if the building
façade is not well-kept or maintained properly, this
is what the public will see.
Building maintenance units are more than just
glass cleaning devices, you need to consider
maintenance and replacement of aircraft warning
lights, façade lighting features, replacement of
broken glass and leaking seals.
As buildings become increasingly tall and complex,
BMU designs too are becoming increasingly
complicated. It is de�nitely in the clients’ best
interest to take this matter very seriously, and to
integrate the BMU design into the façade package
and overall architectural package as early as
possible into the design cycle.
Mick [email protected]
Building Maintenance Unit (BMU) plays an important role in façade maintenance and cleaning of the structure. BMUs can be permanently installed onto the building or the structure, and are usually located within the roof and mechanical services. Particularly where the building envelope has a complex shape, the BMU needs to be �exible enough to navigate its way and access the tough spots for cleaning or replacement of façade materials.
What is BMU?
GLOBAL NEWS
GLOBAL NEWS
Meinhardt welcomes two new appointees Down Under - Peter Galvin and Dean Thornton.
Peter has been appointed Regional CEO for Australia. He was appointed six months ago as Director for Strategy & Operations in preparation for this
new role. He takes over from Glenn Morris who will continue to sit on the Board as Group Director (Projects) for Australia. Glenn will work with Peter to
grow and develop operations in Australia and with the Global CEO on strategic group initiatives.
This is an exciting opportunity, which I am really looking
forward to. Meinhardt is looking at several growth areas in
Australia, including sectors such as Mining and Resources,
expanded service lines in existing capabilities such as
Urban Development and Project Management and new
geographic locations, and I am delighted to be part of these
ambitious plans.
Peter brings on board 25 years’ relevant experience having worked
on iconic projects across the globe, from the Darwin Waterfront
redevelopment, and Nakheel's retail and mixed use portfolio to
Westminster Abbey’s refurbishment in London. His reputation and
passion for growing professional services businesses in the areas of
property, capital works and infrastructure is well known within
Australia and the overseas markets.
www.meinhardtgroup.com
Adelaide Bahrain Bangkok Beijing BrisbaneChennai
Danang Doha DubaiGurgaonHanoi Ho Chi Minh City
Hong Kong Jakarta Karachi Kuala Lumpur Kuwait Lahore
London Manila Melbourne MuscatNoidaRiyadh
SeoulShanghai ShenzhenSingapore Sydney
Key Appointments
Peter GalvinRegional CEO, Australia
The addition of Landscape Architecture and Urban Design
to our service offer recognizes their importance in the
planning and land development sectors. They will
complement our existing capabilities and provide a more
holistic service. Our team’s focus is to provide the best
possible service to our clients and deliver creative
imaginative solutions that are practical and contribute to
their bottom line.
Dean joins with 20 years’ experience, the majority gained at
award-winning design practice Hassell, where he was a Principal in
their Melbourne studio. His specialist expertise ranges from the
master planning of residential and mixed-use developments to the
planning and design of transport infrastructure projects. Recent
experience includes preparation of master plans for the in�ll of
urban sites earmarked for regeneration ranging from 3 to 32
hectares, as well as new community developments within growth
areas around Melbourne, Victoria and New South Wales.
Dean ThorntonManager, Urban and Landscape Design, Australia