SEISMIC RESISTANCE OF PREFABRICATED HOUSING

Abstract

Prefabricated construction with precast reinforced concrete elements is a major achievement in the field of building construction. The building components which are traditionally constructed piece by piece at the site are standardized and mass produced in a factory away from the site or in a temporary shed near the site prior to erection on the building foundation. The components so produced, are assembled and joined to make the walls/frames and the 4loors. Properly designed and detailed joints are the most important factor in assuring both safe and economical prefabricated buildings. The three principal design considerations are the force and actions to be resisted, the structural function of the joint, and the fabrication/erection procedures. In seismic regions, lateral loads tend to dictate the stability of the prefabricated structures. The stability of the prefabricated buildings is dependent on diaphragm action of horizontal floors and vertical walls. Adequate joints between prefabricates and properly designed tie and bond beams are required to ensure that assembled individual elements act as rigid diaphragms.