Title: The First use of UHPC Technology for an Innovative LRT Station Canopy Shawnessy, Calgery, Alberta

Author(s): V. Perry and D. Zakariasen

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 228

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 1119-1132

Keywords: abrasion; aesthetics; composite; ductile; durability; fiber-reinforced; impact; impermeability; UHPC; usage-life

DOI: 10.14359/14526

Date: 6/1/2005

Abstract:
Twenty-four unique, thin-shelled canopies measuring 5 m x 6 m and just 2 cm thick (18' x 20' and 3/4" thick) supported on single columns, protect commuters from the elements at Calgary’s new Shawnessy Light Rail Transit (LRT) Station. The innovative design was made possible with a new, ultra-high performance, fiber reinforced material that offers a combination of superior technical characteristics including ductility, strength and durability while providing highly moldable products with a quality surface. For this project, the material compressive strength was 150 MPa (22,000 psi) and flexural strength was 18 MPa (2,600 psi). The mechanical properties and design flexibility facilitated the architect’s and engineer’s ability to create the thin, curved, off-white shell structure. This paper presents the fundamentals of the technology, material properties, design details, manufacturing, prototyping, full-scale load testing, erection and economics. Many economies gained from this new technology are a result of engineering new solutions for old problems. By utilizing the material’s unique combination of superior properties, designs can eliminate passive reinforcing steel and experience reduced global construction costs, site formworks, labor and maintenance. Additional benefits include improved construction safety, speed of construction and extended usage life.