Joseph R Grill
Engineers in Clarkdale, AZ
License number
Utah 3089762-2202
Issued Date
Mar 24, 2000
Expiration Date
Mar 31, 2009
Category
Engineer/Land Surveyor
Type
Professional Engineer
Address
Address
Clarkdale, AZ
Education
UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING, Jul 29, 1983
Professional information
Post-Tensioned Rammed Earth Construction
US Patent:
7033116, Apr 25, 2006
Filed:
Sep 6, 2005
Appl. No.:
11/221090
Inventors:
Thomas Ward - Jackson WY, US
Joseph Grill - Clarkdale AZ, US
Joseph Grill - Clarkdale AZ, US
International Classification:
E02D 27/00
US Classification:
405229, 405271, 522933, 5274214
Abstract:
A method for erecting structures composed of rammed-earth. A method of rammed-earth building construction is disclosed wherein walls are post-tensioned to enhance the ability of the wall to receive lateral loading without failing in tension. Post-tensioning rods are anchored to a concrete footing, and temporary forms erected alongside the footing. A protective sleeve is disposed around each post-tensioning rod. An earthen mixture is placed between the forms and around the sleeves, and rammed by compaction in a series of stacked courses. When the rammed-earth wall has obtained the desired height, it is topped with a concrete bond beam through which the post-tensioning rods extend. Using the bond beam as a brace against which a retaining plate may push, retaining plates are disposed upon the bond beam and around the threaded upper ends of each rod. A nut is threaded upon each rod and tightened against the retaining plate to draw the rod into tension. The torque applied to the nut thus loads the wall in compression via the plates and bond beam.