If the quality of concrete is inferior or it is not handled properly, the consequences for the building may be serious. This is by far the biggest challenge of winter construction in extreme weather conditions, starting as high as +5°C. The load-bearing capacities of frozen concrete are not comparable to a properly cured concrete and can cause danger at the site or even in the finished building. Concrete construction in winter always requires thorough planning and preparations and can be considered as an art form in the construction sector. As in the Nordic countries harsh winter conditions are persistent, Peikko has, in collaboration with its customers, worked toward a solution that enables the construction site to work efficiently.
Heating cables for smooth winter construction
DELTABEAM® composite beams are hollow, and they are grouted after installation also from inside. This composite action between steel and concrete brings out the optimal benefits of both materials. In winter construction, the optimal use of DELTABEAM® is guaranteed by installing heating cables inside the beam. The heating cables provide a stable source of heat from inside the beam and guarantee that the concrete does not freeze before reaching the needed freezing strength. This is also more energy-efficient than heating the complete structure. However, the effect of wind should not be disregarded as it may significantly increase the feel of the temperature. In some cases additional isolation may be needed. In the meanwhile the team can move on and continue the installation at the site – as long as they remember to wear winter caps and keep their fingers warm!
Heating cables are a cost-efficient solution widely available at the construction market. The cables are always installed at Peikko’s factory, but the type, amount of loops and capacity of the heating cables is decided in co-operation with the concrete work contractor, concrete supplier, customer’s engineer, and site manager. The conditions of the site, concrete type and quality, outside temperature, and many other features affect the decision. At the site you just plug and play!
Using DELTABEAM® Composite Beams or DELTABEAM® Frame with heating cables provides many benefits, speed of construction being only one of them. Smooth installation is a must requirement, no matter the weather. With the safety of end users and site workers in mind, DELTABEAM® is an effective solution even in demanding winter weather conditions.
Let it snow!
