Project Description: Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRPs) have been used to strengthen 8 Chicago Public Schools through 2010. Rufus M Hitch 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 2 shear collars. 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. This school had severe cracking issues and required an extensive amount of injection.
Summary: This school had strengthening to be done on the top side of the roof slab. Once the old roofing was removed, there were many cracks to inject prior to the FRP installation. The FRPs were installed despite the inclement weather. A dielectric barrier was installed over the carbon FRP.
