Method Statement
The aim of the project is to investigate punching shear failure of flat slabs in fire conditions; this will be done by a combination of a literature review and computer modelling of an axi-symmetric slab-column connection. Modelling will be undertaken using the Finite Element Analysis programme ABAQUS and results will be analysed using a combination of visual outputs from ABAQUS and graphs of the data.
Throughout the course of the project, the reviewing of literature and finite element modelling of the problem will be undertaken. There will also be additional project deadlines that need to be met. For each submission, a summary of the work that has been undertaken and a review of the literature needs to be submitted. The requirements for each submission are indicated below:
Throughout the course of the project, the reviewing of literature and finite element modelling of the problem will be undertaken. There will also be additional project deadlines that need to be met. For each submission, a summary of the work that has been undertaken and a review of the literature needs to be submitted. The requirements for each submission are indicated below:
Interim Report
The interim report will include the full literature survey and review to this point. To assess the reliability of previous work undertaken and whether it is suitable for further work in the project. There will also be a critical assessment of the project planning document, the objectives will be analysed to see if they are likely to be met and dealt with accordingly. The time scale of the project will also be reassessed to determine if the project is remaining on track. Initial modelling work will also be completed with any analysis that may have also been undertaken. Finally it will include a proposed table of contents for the final report.
Final Report
The final report will include a full literature review on the behaviour of flat slabs in both ambient and fire conditions. The results of the modelling will be used for analysis to either support or contradict the literature and design guides and a full analysis will be made on the findings. Conclusions will be made about the validity of the findings, and avenues for further research and experiments will be noted. It is planned to finish the report in adequate time so that it can be thoroughly checked and formatted before submission.
Oral Examination
At this stage in the project, the topic will be well known so this will include reading through the report and identifying potential questions that may be asked.