The Precast Concrete Structural Design and Application Course at Oxford Training Centre delivers an in-depth, technical learning experience focused on the use of precast systems in modern structural engineering. Participants are guided through all facets of designing, detailing, manufacturing, and applying precast concrete elements in diverse structural applications. Through analytical approaches, applied standards, and structural modeling techniques, this course prepares professionals to integrate precast components in infrastructure projects with both efficiency and safety.
The program provides expertise in interpreting codes and guidelines, developing load paths, and designing key components such as beams, columns, slabs, and joints for both gravity and lateral loading scenarios. Emphasis is also placed on durability, sustainability, and the integration of modular building strategies, aligning with current advances in industrialized construction practices.
This intensive technical training is well-aligned with evolving needs in constructions and civil engineering training course offerings. It supports professionals in meeting structural safety, performance, and quality control requirements associated with precast construction systems across commercial, residential, and infrastructure projects.
Objectives
- Understand the engineering principles and behavior of precast concrete structural systems
- Design primary structural elements such as precast beams, columns, and wall panels under gravity and lateral loads
- Apply national and international codes (e.g., Eurocode, ACI) relevant to precast concrete design
- Conduct structural analysis of precast components using appropriate modeling techniques
- Design detailing of precast connections to ensure stability, safety, and seismic performance
- Integrate precast design with site erection requirements, transportation constraints, and tolerances
- Evaluate sustainability and durability performance criteria of precast concrete systems
- Interpret fabrication and erection guidelines for industrialized precast concrete production
Target Audience
- Structural design engineers
- Civil and construction engineers involved in design execution
- Precast system manufacturers and plant engineers
- Architectural professionals coordinating with structural teams
- Site engineers responsible for erection and quality supervision
- Infrastructure planners and modular construction consultants
- Technical officers involved in code compliance and inspection
- Professionals working on design-build or precast-intensive projects
How Will Attendees Benefit?
- Gain practical proficiency in structural design using precast concrete systems
- Develop capabilities to produce safe and code-compliant precast detailing
- Enhance knowledge of structural analysis methods for modular construction
- Learn to handle project constraints including transportation, installation, and tolerances
- Understand key interfaces between design, manufacturing, and site operations
- Master the use of international codes and standards for design validation
- Improve project efficiency through early-stage precast integration
- Strengthen risk control through effective joint and connection detailing
Course Content
Module 1: Fundamentals of Precast Concrete Systems
- Key principles of precast versus cast-in-place systems
- Benefits and constraints of using precast concrete in structural design
- Overview of modular, panelized, and hybrid construction strategies
Module 2: Precast Concrete Materials and Behavior
- Mechanical properties of precast concrete
- Durability, shrinkage, and creep considerations
- Compatibility of reinforcement and concrete interfaces
Module 3: Structural Design of Precast Beams and Columns
- Flexural and shear design under service and ultimate limit states
- Design of prestressed versus conventionally reinforced members
- Load transfer mechanisms and end bearing design
Module 4: Design of Precast Slabs and Wall Panels
- Solid, hollow-core, and double-tee slab systems
- Load-bearing and non-load-bearing wall design
- Out-of-plane and in-plane load resistance checks
Module 5: Joints and Connections in Precast Structures
- Design of moment-resisting and shear connections
- Dry versus wet joints: structural implications and detailing
- Anchorage, embedment, and interface reinforcement design
Module 6: Structural Analysis for Precast Elements
- Analytical modeling of precast assemblies
- Load path definition and support conditions
- Stability analysis and deflection control
Module 7: Design Codes and Standards
- Eurocode provisions for precast concrete (EN 1992)
- ACI 318 design guidelines for precast systems
- National annexes and jurisdiction-specific regulations
Module 8: Precast Concrete Production and Quality Control
- Manufacturing workflows and curing systems
- Fabrication tolerances and dimensional control
- Inspection and acceptance criteria for structural units
Module 9: Erection, Transport, and Site Planning
- Structural considerations during lifting, storage, and erection
- Crane coordination, load balancing, and lifting inserts
- Temporary bracing, shoring, and safety during assembly
Module 10: Sustainability and Performance in Precast Structures
- Embodied carbon reduction through modular construction
- Lifecycle performance and thermal properties
- Innovations in high-performance and recycled concrete for precast