Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland
College Street Car Park is a multi-storey structure requiring confirmation of its structural capacity and suitability for continued vehicle loading. McFarland Consulting Ltd were appointed to undertake a programme of condition assessment, exploratory investigations and full-scale load testing to provide assurance of structural performance.
MCL carried out detailed inspections and exploratory opening-up works to establish the structural form of the car park. The investigations identified an unusual construction system comprising filigree precast beams and hollow blocks with an in-situ structural topping. In the absence of reliable structural records, targeted investigations were undertaken to confirm member geometry, reinforcement arrangement and load paths.
Based on the findings, MCL developed a finite element model to accurately represent the structural behaviour of the deck. The model was used to determine safe load test limits and to predict the expected response of the structure under load. A controlled load test was then designed and implemented using incrementally filled water bags.
Structural behaviour during the test was monitored using a combination of linear variable displacement transducers and strain sensors. The results confirmed the suitability of the structure for vehicle loading and provided the Client with clear recommendations to enhance durability and extend the service life of the car park.