AU2015100567A4 - A modular FRP retaining wall - Google Patents

Abstract

Abstract A modular FRP retaining wall system includes steel posts concreted in the ground with rectangular fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) section spanning between the posts, wherein the FRP section includes a small interlocking rib so that each section will fit together forming a sound and interlocking wall. :Mj) o U cn5 Ifu

Description

EDITORIAL NOTE 2015100567 There is one page of description only.

MODULAR FRP RETAINING WALL SYSTEM The modular FRP retaining wall system works on similar principle to that of the commonly used concrete sleepers fitted inside steel posts. There are a number of cost and disadvantages with using concrete and this includes: - As with all retaining wall construction, there involves costs in significant amount physical and manual labour: there are concrete sleepers to lift, rocks or block to be carted and fitted. This usually involves heavy equipment of some kind. - With the use of equipment, this increases health and safety risks to the workers - Concrete sleepers in particular can also chip and fracture (before or during instillation). Although not severely threatening the structural integrity of the wall, it looks messy and can become a point of erosion over the next years. - Block walls and concrete sleepers themselves are very heavy and without a significant foundation, the wall can stink in particular sections - causing misalignment and strain - Block walls and sleepers are also subject to mould and even graffiti! This being said, a modular FRP retaining wall system maybe an alternative solution. This wall includes: - Steel posts concreted in the ground with rectangular fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) section spanning between the posts. - The FRP section would also include a small interlocking rib so that each section will fit together forming a sound and interlocking wall - The FRP then call be completely 'locked' together by putting a tex-screw at the top and bottom of the column - evading any chances of beams stinking or misaligning. - This rib will also prevent any water seepage though the wall - FRP is an immensely strong composite and more so in comparison to its weight. A section of FRP might be 10% of the weight of a concrete sleeper - a 2 metre sleeper is usually around 80kgs. This weight is required by Worksafe to be lifted by machinery. Lifting an FRP beam would only require one person. - FRP is also not subject to erosion, rust, rot or cracking/chipping. FRP also has the advantage of being able to easily screw attachments after completed (e.g. electrical, plumbing, etc.) - Processional and neat finish - not subject to mould and graffiti is easy removed (because of its chemical resistance) - Construction is very fast and simple with no material handling issues