Use of engineering robust design approach to improve the surface quality of pre-cast concrete elements: An experimental approach

Abstract

Pre-cast concrete components are commonly used for columns, beams, floors, walls and other structural elements in buildings. In general, several quality control assessments must be performed during the production of pre-cast concrete elements. Further, the quality of any cast product depends on material selection, equipment used and workmanship. The quality of surface finish is one feature which gives an immediate visual impact. In order to minimize life cycle costing for the structure, it is vital to have durable material and formed surfaces with few surface detects (i.e. honeycombing, air void surfaces, etc.). Surfaces of acceptable quality and accuracy are difficult to achieve and depend on functional and aesthetic requirements. However, the end user of pre-cast elements expects a high quality surface finish with minimum defects. It is a great challenge to reduce the occurrence of such surface defects during the production of the elements. This manuscript identifies factors affecting the surface finish of pre-cast elements. It also describes the possibility of using an engineering robust design approach to improve the surface finish of pre-cast elements and explains the experimentation approach.