Title: Establishing Tolerances in Concrete Construction

Author(s): Dean E. Stephan, Jr., and Alan Murk

Publication: Journal Proceedings

Volume: 74

Issue: 5

Appears on pages(s): 208-211

Keywords: architectural concrete; beams (supports);camber;concrete construction; economics; formwork (construction);precast concrete;slipform construction; specifications;tolerances (mechanics) ; walls.

DOI: 10.14359/11003

Date: 5/1/1977

Abstract:
The specification writer usually designates tolerances for a structure based on standardized specifications on file or appropriate ACI specifications without much thought to the actual tolerances required. This can have a significant cost impact on the project. A detailed field investigation of tolerances for three slipformed structures is presented which indicates that tolerances from "Specifications for Structural Concrete for Buildings (ACI 301-72) (Revised 1975)" should not be applied to slipforming. The authors discuss tolerances required for slipform construction, job site structural and architectural precast concrete, slabs over precast concrete beams, and make recommendations for realistic tolerances based on field experience.