Civil Engineer Notebook

What is New in the IS codes: Recent Revisions of Which You should be Aware. Why Does Code Revision Matter? The construction quality and safety is pegged on the Indian Standard (IS) codes. They change to accommodate new materials, new technology, lessons captured in the failures, and best sensed practices all over the world. As an engineer, it can be said that being on top of the recent changes to IS codes will make sure that once your project is compliant, it is also more intelligent and tougher. Key Recent Changes in IS Codes of Civil Engineering (updated to 2023-24): Note: BIS official portal is where latest updates are to be referred to always. 1. IS 456 Plain, and Reinforced Concrete-Code of Practice Status: Revision of primary order Future Changes: High-performance and self-compacting concrete features are provided Modifications of curing time factor and durability factors as per environment Better coverage of sustainability and green practices Why It Matters: It is one of the mos...

Role of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) in Modern Construction  The construction sector has become very competitive and rigorous in terms of quality and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) has emerged as a core instrument in ascertaining soundness of structure, safety, and compliance with the codes, without incurring any destruction to the structure. NDT plays a pivotal role in the construction industry because it is used to detect flaws in bridges, high-rises, tunnels and dams in order to ensure the quality of the materials used and make critical decisions during and after the construction process. NDT in Construction What is NDT in Construction? Non-Destructive Testing is a term that is used to describe ways in which materials or structures can be tested without compromise or destruction. USP Pitts and DTT do not penalize conventional concrete, Steel, welds etc., they permit testing without breaking, cutting, or destroying the element in-situ. Widely Used NDT in Construction: Advantages ...

 Methods of Curing Concrete: Site vs Guidelines in the Code One of the most important steps in the construction of concrete structure is curing yet it is most of the time the neglected part on-site. Even though design and mixing are refined, poor curing may end up destroying the durability of even the best concrete in the long term. This blog pits site curing as it is practiced on sites against the guidelines that are provided regarding the same in IS codes, and investigates the way to get the two to meet. The reasons to cure: Curing entails ensuring that the concrete has the right level of moisture, temperature and time in order to develop the required strength and durability. The result of poor curing is: Surface cracks Decreased compressive strength Scaling and dusting The poor abrasion resistance Code Guidelines of Curing (IS:456): In accordance with the provisions of Indian Standard IS 456:2000 (Clause 13): IS recommended curing time: 7 days of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) 1...