Project Description: Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRPs) have been used to strengthen 8 Chicago Public Schools through 2010. Christian Ebinger was one of three done during the summer of 2010. The investigations and load testing determine which beams and joists require strengthening. The installation of FRPs allows the removal of the structural steel beams and hangers that support the structural frame.
Solution: Fibrwrap had a scope that included all concrete repairs, crack injection, FRP installation and construction of 1 shear collar and 1 concrete column. The concrete repairs involved the patching of any deteriorated concrete in the locations of the FRPs. During the work, several form and pour repairs were necessary and performed as extras.
Summary: The shear collar were located in the attic and presented less of a challenge as it was the 7th one built that summer. The FRP strengthening involved both glass and carbon FRPs and the application of a 2 hour UL rated smoke and flame coating. The project was successfully completed during the summer school shut down.
