Join our expert panel as they discuss the principles and challenges of designing with Precast concrete.
As well as looking at some of the inherent advantages of designing with precast (versatility, strength, and erosion resistance) the panel will consider how precast performs on other important measures, including –

• Compliance requirements (waterproofing as well as condensation)

• High moisture content in concrete - is mould possible in a precast building structure?

• Insulation – what works with precast? – inside or outside

• Design techniques and tools

• Sustainability – helpful or hindering to zero net carbon objectives on projects

• Airtightness (cladding and structural) leading to high humidity - how should designers deal with this?

• Concrete composition – moisture content and colour - render or paint?

• Differing construction methodologies

• Fixing systems

• Vapour control membranes / Intelligent air barriers - what are they & how do they work

• Validity of industry guidance

 
In addition, to the above headings, this presentation will illustrate (through project case studies) how designers express their creativity with precast while also facing up to some of the difficult technical questions and recommendations for potential pathways forward.

Our Expert Presenters/Panel

David West

Technical Director, Inhabit Sydney

David has over 35 years of experience with the performance of materials in building facades. He has worked across the entire building lifecycle, from the concept design of new building facades, through diagnosis of performance failures, to repair, refurbishment, and conservation of existing buildings, and even the conservation and interpretation of archaeological remains. David brings a different perspective to issues relating to durability, resilience and sustainability of building facades based on his combined architectural and scientific training, and extensive experience with the way buildings behave over time. Throughout his career, he has been an active contributor to the development of Australian and ASTM technical standards on a wide range of topics. He has contributed to professional organisations in the stone, heritage conservation and façade sectors. When looking at the waterproofing of building facades, David has a particular interest in gaps, junctions, and interfaces – as well as in the lessons to be learnt from traditional and vernacular building details.

Villy Yordanov

Innovation Engineer, pro clima

Villy is a Mechanical Engineer with professional experience across divers sectors, including manufacturing, building products and renewable energy. His professional journey extends to the realm of sustainability within building services consulting, encompassing energy modelling, thermal comfort modelling, and computational fluid dynamics. He is a keen problem solver with skills that lend themselves to the optimisation and constant improvement of everything around us. Driven by a profound vision, he aspires to leverage his technical acumen and fervour for sustainability to make a positive impact on society. In the domain of construction, Villy directs his attention towards the prevention of mould and condensation, championing the creation of environments that foster the well-being of all occupants. His commitment to ensuring a healthy and sustainable future underscores his dedication to both his profession and the greater good.

Geoff Fletcher

Temporary Works Engineer, Euro Precast
(Master Precaster member of National Precast)

Geoff is a chartered engineer and is registered in Victoria & Queensland for civil/structural engineering. He has broad design, research and construction experience, particularly regarding precast concrete and concrete anchorage systems. He is a member of Australian Standards committees for AS 3600 (Concrete Structures), AS 3850 (Prefabricated Concrete Elements) and is a member of the fib (International Federation for Structural Concrete) Task Group 2.9 re Anchorage into Concrete. He has worked closely with the major Australian precast industry association (National Precast) for about 20 years and is also an active member of the Forensic Engineering Society of Australia.

CPD - Participation in this webinar will deliver 2 formal CPD points.
Written CPD questions will be circulated with your purchase. Send your responses to CPD questions to mark@meccaevents.com.au for the issue of a certificate of completion. Keep your receipt, completed questions and certificate for your CPD records.
For more information, contact Mark Gledhill - mark@meccaevents.com.au