4:00 PM (1.0 PDH)
Geoforensic Engineering Study of an Industrial Metal Building in Houston
Presented by Mr. John Wang, Ph.D., with Geotech Engineering and Testing
BIO: Mr. Wang is a Project Manager at Geotech Engineering and Testing (GET) with responsibility for daily operations of Geoforensic and geotechnical explorations, data analysis, and preparation of report recommendations. He has several years of experience in the field of geoforensic, geotechnical, environmental, and materials engineering. He has been involved in geoforensic studies related to commercial and residential structures, slope failures, pavements, retaining walls, and sewer and plumbing leaks. His other experience includes research and development in the field of soils, rock materials testing for slopes, retaining walls, pavements, low- to high-rise buildings, slope protection remedial works, deep foundations, flood control channels, community centers, office buildings, and subdivisions. His other experience includes research and development in the field of unsaturated soil mechanics (expansive soils). Dr. Wang is also actively involved in environmental site assessment projects, including Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessment Studies.
ABSTRACT: This presentation reviews a geoforensic evaluation of a distressed metal building in Houston conducted by John Wang, Ph.D. The study examines structural and serviceability problems linked to foundation movement, moisture intrusion, slab performance, and environmental influences common to Gulf Coast soils. Through site inspections, geotechnical exploration, and analysis of historical construction data, the investigation identifies how design assumptions, construction practices, and subsurface conditions contributed to the building’s distress. The presentation highlights key forensic findings and outlines practical repair and mitigation strategies to restore performance and reduce future risk for metal structures built on challenging Texas clays.
5:00 PM (1.0 PDH)
Field Evaluation, Assessment, and Repair of Fire-Damaged Steel
Presented by Mr. Steve Schilder, P.E., with SMS Engineering
BIO: Steve Schilder, P.E., is the principal and owner of SMS Engineering in Katy, Texas. He is a registered structural engineer in the states of Texas, Mississippi, and Florida. He received his BS in Architectural Engineering from the University of Texas in Austin with studies in advanced structural design, material science, construction management, and building systems. In addition to his broad design experience, Steve has decades of experience as a project manager, having been involved in the construction of numerous public, private, and government projects. Steve is an FPA member of long standing, is a past president of the FPA (2013, 2016 and 2023) and is the current Treasurer.
ABSTRACT: This presentation will offer a practical overview of investigating and assessing fire-damaged steel for repair. Participants will gain an understanding of the effects of structural steel exposed to extreme heat conditions. Plastic versus elastic steel behavior will be reviewed as a result of exposure to loads and heat. Methods for determining steel conditions in the field will be presented. Repair details, methods of repair, removal of damaged steel, and replacement with new steel members will be presented. By the end of the presentation, participants will be better equipped to make rapid and simple field evaluations of steel components exposed to fire and to suggest cost-effective repairs.
