A monitoring method for scaffold-frame shoring systems for elevated concrete formwork

This article proposes a monitoring method to prevent scaffold-frame shoring systems, used as a falsework for an elevated concrete formwork, from colla pse. Basically, if a scaffold-frame shoring fails, it fails in buckling fai lure mode. To avoid the buckling failure, it is recommended that two parame ters, axial forces and lateral displacements, be monitored in the field. Th e allowable axial forces and displacements for these two parameters as well as the locations of the monitoring instruments to be installed are propose d based on analysis and full-scale laboratory experiments. A data gathering real-time analysis program should be combined with the monitoring process so that warning signals can be issued in advance of the collapse, The whole monitoring process including the alert giving can be managed using a perso nal computer. A flowchart to show this management is also proposed herein. Finally, a site test has been performed, and the test result indicates that the suggested monitoring method is basically applicable. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.