accessible_forward
Accessibility Statement. Read more.
How Austin Commercial Gained Visibility Using DEWALT Concrete Sensors
This case study focuses on how Austin Commercial used DEWALT Concrete Sensors to gain deeper insight into temperature differential between the inner core and exterior of a large concrete pour.
OVERVIEW OF AUSTIN COMMERCIAL AND PROJECT CHALLENGES
Derek Howton, serving as a Senior Field Engineer at Austin Commercial, offered valuable insights into the firm's deployment of DEWALT Concrete Sensors on a current large project. Austin Commercial, a Dallas-based construction management firm, undertakes a wide array of projects spanning manufacturing plants, hospitals, and sports arenas. With a tenure of 26 years at Austin Commercial, Derek has played a pivotal role in overseeing diverse construction endeavors, ensuring their seamless execution and timely completion.
THE PROJECT
This ongoing project involves the construction of a wafer manufacturing plant crucial for chip production. Derek highlighted the challenge of ensuring the integrity of massive concrete foundations supporting sensitive machinery. He emphasized the concerns raised by their supervising Structural Engineer regarding temperature differentials within the massive concrete structures during curing, posing potential structural issues.
On top of these foundations lie the plants, each approximately 14 feet long, 10 feet wide, and 14 feet tall, comprising nearly 100 yards of concrete in substantial blocks. Depending on the vantage point, there are either six or seven of these structures. Derek mentioned that they rest atop a mat measuring 6 feet deep, around 20 feet long, and approximately 150 feet in total length. “Our structural engineer expressed concerns about the temperature differential between the inner core and the exterior of these sizable concrete structures, fearing the possibility of a cold joint forming due to the significant variation in temperatures during curing, particularly in cooler conditions,” he said.
To address this challenge, Derek and his team employed DEWALT Concrete Sensors. While they had previously used sensors tethered to concrete mixes to determine maturity, this project required a different approach. Unlike maturity meters, which are typically embedded in slabs with consistent temperatures, the concrete team needed to monitor both exterior and interior temperatures. Consequently, they strategically positioned sensors in three distinct areas on each structure. One sensor was placed at the surface, while another, affixed to a 10-foot single probe, was secured to the rebar approximately 3 feet below the surface, ensuring readings from both the exterior and middle of the foundation. This setup allowed them to verify and ensure minimal temperature discrepancies between the concrete's inner core and its surroundings. All in, they have installed 286 DEWALT Concrete sensors with 286 tails.
CHOOSING DEWALT CONCRETE SENSORS
Derek discussed the reasons behind selecting DEWALT Concrete Sensors for their latest project, emphasizing their practicality and dependable performance. He appreciated how these sensors integrate seamlessly with the existing monitoring systems and are user-friendly, making them an optimal choice for their construction needs. The connection with White Cap, established through the main superintendent, played a significant role in simplifying the implementation process of these sensors.
Further elaborating on their benefits, Derek pointed out that the sensors are particularly effective in measuring temperature differentials, which is crucial for the proper curing of concrete and avoiding potential complications. He was so satisfied with their performance that he expressed a strong preference for using DEWALT Concrete Sensors in future projects that have similar requirements. According to Derek, the reliability and straightforwardness of these sensors make them an invaluable tool for achieving project success.
EASY INSTALL - DEWALT CONCRETE SENSORS
Derek described the installation of the DEWALT Concrete Sensors as a straightforward process. He and his team carefully positioned the sensors at crucial points, both on and within the concrete foundation, to maximize their effectiveness. He stressed the significance of meticulous planning and maintaining open lines of communication with his team to guarantee accurate sensor placement and monitoring. Derek also commended the sensors for their ability to measure temperature differentials, which are essential for ensuring the concrete cures properly and preventing potential problems.
METRICS AND DASHBOARD INSIGHTS
The primary metrics under observation involved monitoring temperature variations between the inner core and outer layers of the concrete. Derek highlighted the specific temperature thresholds set by the structural engineer to ensure optimal curing. He emphasized how the sensors provided real-time data, enabling informed decision-making throughout the project.
Of paramount importance was maintaining a temperature difference of 35 degrees or less between the interior and exterior of the concrete. Despite encountering variances of up to 80 degrees in some areas, it was concluded that this deviation was less impactful than expected. Nevertheless, tracking these metrics was manageable, facilitating thorough oversight and analysis of the collected data.
The user-friendly interface of the accompanying Concrete DNA Cloud App simplified data collection and analysis, ensuring smooth integration into Austin Commercial’s workflow.
IMPLEMENTATION AND FUTURE CONSIDERATIONS
Derek described the implementation of DEWALT Concrete Sensors and utilizing the Concrete DNA Cloud App as straightforward and easy to learn for a team that didn’t understand the technology had existed before this project. He also recommends their use in future large-scale concrete projects with similar requirements. Derek stated, "Their effectiveness in monitoring concrete curing processes has very much been demonstrated on this project, making them a valuable asset."
Derek's insights shed light on Austin Commercial's successful implementation of DEWALT Concrete Sensors and their significant impact on project outcomes. Their experience highlights the importance of innovative solutions in enhancing construction processes and ensuring project success.
ABOUT AUSTIN COMMERCIAL
Austin Commercial is a leading construction management firm based in Dallas, Texas, with a distinguished reputation for excellence and innovation in the industry. With roots tracing back to its founding in the early 20th century, Austin Commercial has established itself as a trusted partner in delivering high-quality construction projects across a diverse range of sectors.
At the heart of Austin Commercial's ethos is a commitment to exceeding client expectations through collaborative partnerships, meticulous planning, and superior craftsmanship. The company's multidisciplinary approach enables it to tackle projects of varying complexity and scale, from large-scale manufacturing plants to intricate healthcare facilities and iconic sports arenas.
With regional offices strategically located in Austin, Houston, and Orlando, as well as a presence in the southwest region, Austin Commercial is well-positioned to serve clients nationwide. The firm's geographic reach, coupled with its extensive industry expertise, allows it to adapt seamlessly to the unique challenges and requirements of each project, ensuring successful outcomes and client satisfaction. Visit the website.