Engineering Commons^™

Numerical Computation Of Transient Response Of 2d Wedge Impact, Naresh Kumar Koyyapu

University of New Orleans Theses and Dissertations

The diverse applications of advanced marine craft ascribed to their high speed and technological advancements has led to the use of stronger and lighter metals in such crafts. High speed, in effect also increases slamming loads as higher speed increases frequency of wave encounter while operating in waves. The present study is limited to wedge impact models. Fundamentally, the study is thus about two-dimensional (2D) wedge impact in water. In an attempt to predict the structural response to impact hydrodynamic force, a beam element based finite element (FE) computer program is written and the results of the code are presented …

Investigation Of Grouted Dowel Connection For Precast Concrete Wall Construction, Douglas J. Provost-Smith

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

The grouted dowel connection is a simple and cost-effective connection used in many precast concrete structural systems. The required dowel length is currently designed as a regular bar in reinforced concrete, which underestimates the bond strength, thus resulting in excessive connection lengths. Furthermore, precast wall construction continues throughout cold weather, where in-situ heating of the grout used in the grouted dowel connections is usually conducted for short periods of time. Hence, early-age exposure to subfreezing conditions may affect the quality of the grout and subsequently the bond strength of the connection, which can compromise structural integrity.

In this thesis, full-scale …

Total Bridge Replacement Of M-13 Over Cheboyganing Creek, Daniel Burns

Honors Theses

The Michigan Department of Transportation sought a proposal consisting of design and construction engineering services for the total bridge replacement of M-13 over Cheboyganing Creek. The M-13 Bridge Project is located on M-13 over Cheboyganing Creek on the Saginaw River in Portsmouth Township, Bay County, Michigan.

Several components of the existing bridge have been rated in poor or serious condition on the National Bridge Inventory rating scale. A total bridge replacement is required and aligns with MDOT strategies to address critical infrastructure needs in the state as well as the Bay Region's five-year plan for managing bridge and culvert infrastructure. …

Microstructural Analysis Of Thermoelastic Response, Nonlinear Creep, And Pervasive Cracking In Heterogeneous Materials, Alden C. Cook

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation is concerned with the development of robust numerical solution procedures for the generalized micromechanical analysis of linear and nonlinear constitutive behavior in heterogeneous materials. Although the methods developed are applicable in many engineering, geological, and materials science fields, three main areas are explored in this work. First, a numerical methodology is presented for the thermomechanical analysis of heterogeneous materials with a special focus on real polycrystalline microstructures obtained using electron backscatter diffraction techniques. Asymptotic expansion homogenization and finite element analysis are employed for micromechanical analysis of polycrystalline materials. Effective thermoelastic properties of polycrystalline materials are determined and compared …

Identifying Damage, Predicting Expansion, And Determining The Effectiveness Of Sealers On Concrete Affected By Alkali-Silica Reaction And Freeze-Thaw, Matthew Caleb Waidner

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Premature cracking of the barrier wall and pavement on I-49 south of Fayetteville, Arkansas due to a combination of Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR) and freeze-thaw has led to ASR and freeze-thaw research at the University of Arkansas. Potential for further expansion (PFET), Damage Rating Index (DRI), and mitigation of freeze-thaw and ASR with sealers testing and results are contained herein. PFET results indicated that the pavement will not continue to expand from ASR. With other interstate pavements deteriorating prematurely throughout Arkansas, DRI has shown that most are damaged not only by ASR but by freeze-thaw too. Recommendations for freeze-thaw’s inclusion into …

Development Of Design Loads For Transmission Line Structures Subjected To Downbursts Using Aero-Elastic Testing And Numerical Modeling, Amal Elawady

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

The failure of transmission line structures due to severe High Intensity Wind (HIW) events is one of the major problems facing the electrical utility companies in various places around the globe including Canada. An extensive research program focusing on this problem started about fifteen years ago at The University of Western Ontario (UWO). In this Thesis, two major milestones are achieved leading to the advancement of the knowledge in this field. The first milestone is conducting, for the first time, a test on an aero-elastic model of a multi-span transmission system under reduced–scale simulated downbursts. The first objective of the …

Relaxation In Bolted Assemblies, Samuel Augustus Moeller

Theses and Dissertations

The purposes of this investigation were to (a) extend previously developed elastic spring models for bolt assemblies to include simulating creep loss in the bolt and the threads and (b) to present an approach in which appropriate spring stiffness in the model are determined rationally. Previous efforts at modeling tension in bolts have been limited in that they were not readily applicable to analyses of realistic bolted connections. The simulated load distributions on the shank and the threads in a single-bolt assembly showed good comparison to the gathered experimental data as did the simulated, time dependent creep loss in the …

Detailed Study Of Integral Abutment Bridges And Performance Of Bridge Joints In Traditional Bridges, Brooke H. Quinn

Doctoral Dissertations

Integral Abutment Bridges (IABs) are jointless bridges in which the superstructure is cast monolithically with its substructure. Eliminating expansion joints from the superstructure reduces corrosion of bridge elements that typically result from leaking joints in traditional bridges. IABs have proven to be cost effective for both construction and life-cycle analysis. As a result, they are the standard single span highway bridge of choice by the majority of State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) across the country. Despite the widespread use of these bridges, there are no uniform guidelines in place. Factors such as pile orientation, design assumptions, maximum span length, skew …

Behavior Of Fire-Exposed Rc Frames Before And After Jacketing, M. Monir M. Ajan Alhadid

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Analysis and design of fire-exposed Reinforced Concrete (RC) frames before and after jacketing with concrete layers are commonly performed using prescriptive methods that rely on the concept of fire rating. These methods were developed based on empirical results on individual RC members subjected to certain fire conditions. In typical fire scenarios, the residual capacity, stiffness and thermal deformations affects not only the local performance of each fire-exposed member, but also the load redistribution and global behavior of the entire frame. In terms of fire safety, the philosophy of the new building codes considers objective-based design as an alternative of the …

Restoring Capacity In Compromised Glued Laminated Beams, Cole Moller

Graduate Theses & Non-Theses

After structural fires are extinguished, presuming the structure is not a total loss, structural wood members can be inspected for residual properties. Through this research, we explored alternative methods aimed at keeping structurally compromised wood member’s in service when they would otherwise warrant replacement. For this study, we used 24F-V8 DF/DF glued laminated beams that had been loaded to their max capacity; both non-fire damaged and fire damaged. In situations where physical and mechanical changes occur, and the beam warrants individual replacement, a new restoration procedure could be used to salvage the member. Salvaging the member could mean to keep …

Efficient Domain Decomposition Algorithms And Applications In Transportation And Structural Engineering, Paul W. Johnson Iii

Civil & Environmental Engineering Theses & Dissertations

Domain decomposition is a divide-and-conquer strategy. In the first part of this dissertation, a new/simple/efficient domain decomposition partitioning algorithm is proposed to break a large domain into smaller sub-domains, in such a way as to minimize the number of system boundary nodes and to balance the work load for each sub-domain. This new domain decomposition algorithm is based on the network’s shortest path solution. Numerical results indicate that the new Shortest Distance Decomposition Algorithm outperformed the most widely used METIS algorithm in 21 out of 27 tested (transportation) examples. In the second part of this dissertation, another new/simple and highly …

Enhancing The Seismic Performance Of Steel Structures Utilizing Superelastic Shape Memory Alloys, Papia Sultana

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Although conventional earthquake-resisting structural systems provide the life safety level during earthquakes, they experience significant structural damage when exposed to strong ground shaking that render structural retrofitting as uneconomical. Superelastic shape memory alloys (SMAs) can be used in steel structures to reduce the residual deformations due to their recentering capability, which can facilitate post-seismic retrofitting. The primary aim of this thesis is to enhance the seismic performance of both regular and modular steel structures using an optimum amount of superelastic SMAs material in terms of maximum inter-storey drift, residual drift, and damage scheme.

First, a simplified method based on pushover …

Numerical Studies For Improving Fracture Toughness Resistance Curve Testing Using Single-Edge (Notched) Tension Specimens, Yifan Huang

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

The fracture toughness resistance curve, i.e. the J-integral resistance curve (J-R curve) or the crack tip opening displacement resistance (CTOD-R) curves, is widely used in the integrity assessment and strain-based design of energy pipelines with respect to planar defects (i.e. cracks). This thesis deals with issues related to the experimental determination of the J(CTOD)-R curves using the newly-developed single-edge (notched) tension (SE(T)) specimens. In the first study, the plastic geometry factor, i.e. the η_pl factor, used to evaluate J in a J-R curve test based on …

Innovating Two-Stage Concrete With Improved Rheological, Mechanical And Durability Properties, Manal F. Najjar

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Two-stage concrete (TSC), also known as preplaced aggregate concrete, is a special type of concrete that is produced using a unique procedure which differs from that of conventional concrete. TSC is distinguished by its high coarse aggregate content and exceptional placement technique, whereby aggregates are first pre-placed in the mold then injected with a special grout. The preplacement of aggregates saves substantial energy since only the grout needs mechanical mixing; the grout is self-leveling and needs no vibration and no mechanical compaction. However, TSC applications are still limited despite substantial advancement of modern concrete technology. Therefore, there is a need …

Lattice Boltzmann Methods For Wind Energy Analysis, Stephen Lloyd Wood

Doctoral Dissertations

An estimate of the United States wind potential conducted in 2011 found that the energy available at an altitude of 80 meters is approximately triple the wind energy available 50 meters above ground. In 2012, 43% of all new electricity generation installed in the U.S. (13.1 GW) came from wind power. The majority of this power, 79%, comes from large utility scale turbines that are being manufactured at unprecedented sizes. Existing wind plants operate with a capacity factor of only approximately 30%. Measurements have shown that the turbulent wake of a turbine persists for many rotor diameters, inducing increased vibration …

Torsional Strengthening Of Reinforced Concrete Beams Using Cfrp Composites, Ranj Rafeeq

Dissertations and Theses

Few decades ago, there were no guidelines for torsion design of reinforced concrete (RC) beams. Hence, many existing beams in older buildings have a lack of adequate torsional strength since they were not properly designed for torsion. One way to regain/rehabilitate adequate torsional strength is through application of externally bonded carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP). To date, American Concrete Institute (ACI) code, as well as other building codes, do not have recommendations or provisions for strengthening RC beams for torsion using fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites due to the inexistence of conclusive experimental and analytical data. Of the very limited works …

Bridge Deck Research At The University Of Tennessee: A Summary Thesis, Lindsey Brooke Phelps

Masters Theses

Currently, there has been no compilation of all the research the University of Tennessee has completed on chloride ion penetration in concrete bridge decks. The following thesis is a brief summary of the work that has been completed under Dr. Edwin Burdette’s direction over the last six years along with some additional literature review. The testing consisted of Surface Resistivity and Rapid Chloride Ion Penetration testing. This testing showed that there is, in fact a correlation between the two test methods, though SR testing is much easier to conduct. Considerable testing was completed on bridge decks throughout the state of …

The Design And Construction Of A Rear Bumper With Incorporated Spare Tire Rack, Alan C. Isaacson

BioResource and Agricultural Engineering

This senior project outlines the design and construction of a rear bumper with incorporated spare tire and equipment rack for a 1946 Willys CJ2A Jeep. The spare tire rack is capable of swinging out away from the vehicle to allow for the use of the vehicle’s tailgate. The bumper was designed for strength, functionality and aesthetic qualities alike. Additionally, the bumper design considered all vehicle codes and regulations.

Verifying Automated Prestressed Concrete Design Software For Mdot Bridge Design Standards, Hussein Kadhim Abood Khalaf

Masters Theses

The design and analysis of bridges is a very critical and time consuming process. The automation of bridges design can save us time and effort, but the designer must have enough background with structural design of bridges in order to be able to analyze and understand the output of the automated design. This research shows the design and analysis of the superstructure of the US-27 Interchange Bridge at M-57 in Gratiot County of Washington Township, Michigan. The main purpose of this research is to establish a comprehensive design example following AAHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications and Michigan Bridge Design Manual. …

Retrofitting Adobe Buildings, Ashley V. Gaur, Jessica E. Ellis

Architectural Engineering

No abstract provided.

Broad Street Apartments, Carla Alejandra Simental, Viviana C. Sanchez

Architectural Engineering

No abstract provided.

Experimental Building Demonstration Model With Viscous Fluid Dampers, Blake Thomas Reeve, Brianna Jean Kufa, Aden Malek Stepanians, Sophie Carmion Ratkovich

Architectural Engineering

The Architectural Engineering major places a heavy emphasis on structural dynamics and the role of wind and seismic loading in building analysis and design. Buildings of high importance that are critical to community function, such as hospitals, often utilize supplemental damping devices like supplemental viscous fluid dampers or base isolators to reduce the overall demands on the structural system. The design and analysis of these dampers are typically not taught at the undergraduate level, and is frequently performed by mechanical engineers, in lieu of structural engineers.

To better understand and research building behavior with supplemental damping devices, our multi-disciplinary team …

Structural Calculations For Nepal Vocational Learning Center, Nicholas Petrarca

Architectural Engineering

This project goal is to build a Leadership Vocational School for youth, women, differently abled, and local leaders of rural and Kathmandu Nepal. The client for this project is an organization called Sakcham Rural Nepal and they partnered with a humanitarian organization called Journeyman International to find Architecture and Architectural Engineering students to design a safe, attractive and functional building to fit their needs.

Seismic Design Of A Prestressed Concrete Bridge, Alperen Ozel

University of New Orleans Theses and Dissertations

Latest advancements in software have become an indispensable tool in structural analysis. The main goal of this thesis is to examine dynamic responses of bridges in seismic activity with the help of such tool as CSi Bridge. Therefore, throughout this study, a prestressed concrete bridge model will be thoroughly designed. In the first section, the required materials and structural components will be introduced. The following section will cover calculations required for modeling. The actual modeling of the structure will be carried out in Section 3. In Section 4, the set of required analysis for seismic design such as modal, pushover …

Seismic Vulnerability Of Buried Energy Pipelines In Northern Canada, Behrang Dadfar

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Permafrost in Canada’s North covers the terrain either continuously or discontinuously. Geological hazards associated with the presence of permafrost are serious barriers against development of the northern hydrocarbon resources. In recent decades, negative effects of geohazards such as frost heave, thaw settlement, slope instability on the safety of northern pipelines are widely studied; however, those of the seismic events are not. During earthquakes, buried pipelines may suffer damage from the induced transient ground deformations (TGD) and/or permanent ground deformations (PGD). While the former is caused by seismic wave propagation, the latter can result from liquefaction, faulting and landslides. This thesis …

Design Of A Folding V-Scraper With Roller For Orchard Applications, Chase Ulrich

BioResource and Agricultural Engineering

This senior project discusses the design of a folding 15 ft. wide leveler for orchard use. This design utilized a category 2 three-point hitch to connect the implement to a tractor. The folding mechanism uses the tractors hydraulic system to actuate the folding movement using hydraulic cylinders. The blades, when wings in operational position, are rigid with one another after some assembly. When the implement is folded the width is reduced to nine feet.

Analysis Of Bolted Beam-Column Connections With Multiple Bolts Per Row And Column Web Stiffeners, Benjamin C. Sutherland

Civil Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses

Bolted beam-column connections are a common moment connection used in the design of steel buildings. Existing design guides include design parameters for bolt configurations having one bolt on either side of the beam web for each row of bolts. There is potential for increasing connection strength by adding additional bolts on the outside of these rows. This addition could be useful in retrofit scenarios, or even in the design of new structures. In this research, finite element analysis is used to analyze various beam-column connections and t-stub connections. The modeling methods, research process, and conclusions are explained in the thesis …

Towards A Fast Reconstruction Paradigm For Urban Environments In Developing Regions Affected By Natural Disasters, Christopher Maestri

Civil Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses

Natural disasters in developing regions often displace people from their homes, into temporary shelters. These temporary shelters often consist of single-story pre-assembled tents designed to provide short-term aid for individual families. Unfortunately, single-story temporary shelters are not sufficient for accommodating large displaced populations in urban settings due to issues of land overcrowding and disruption to utilities providing water sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services (along with many other issues).

This study investigates the feasibility of implementing a multi-story steel structure, constructed with multi-use structural members and special end connectors, into future relief efforts. A multi-use structural member is an element whose …

Analysis And Design Procedure For Liquid-Filled Conical Tanks Under Seismic Loading, Ahmed Musa

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Steel conical tanks are widely used for liquid storage in North America and elsewhere. A number of those tanks collapsed in the last decades as a result of instability of the steel shells. Despite being widely used, no specific design procedure is available for conical tanks under dynamic conditions. The research conducted in the current thesis presents a simplified approach for the design of steel conical tanks when subjected to ground excitations in the form of horizontal and vertical excitations.

First, the capacity of steel conical tanks to avoid yielding and buckling of the tank vessel under hydrodynamic pressure resulting …

Steel Compression Members With Partial-Length Reinforcement, Morgan Herrell

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Steel wide-flange columns in existing truss bridges may be built-up with flange cover plate reinforcement to increase compressive capacity. This thesis investigates the use of partial-length steel cover plates about column mid-height to improve the weak-axis buckling resistance.

The present research first reviews literature concerning the Euler buckling of members with partial-length reinforcement. Inelastic buckling is simulated by 3-D finite element analysis accounting for cover plate length, cover plate area, bolt hole perforations, yield stresses, residual and locked-in dead load stresses, and initial out-of-straightness. The model is validated by a load test of a full-scale column with bolted reinforcement plates. …