Topic : Common Structural Forms for High-rise Buildings in Hong Kong

Construction of prefabricated frame buildingUsing precast elements as part of theexternal walls as well as the permanentformwork for load-bearing wallsAn external view of building –majority of external walls areconstructed in precast mannerAdvantageous features of framed structure1. Speedy construction due to simplicity in geometry –consist of only columns and beams (or partially by thefloor slab) as the main structural elements2. Very rigid and stable – able to resist tremendous vertical(dead load) and lateral loads (wind)3. Reduced dead load – absent of thick shear wall etc.4. Roofed over at an earlier stage – every floor slab beingfinished becomes an cover to protect the lower floors fromsun and rain5. Offer large unobstructed floor areas – without obstaclebetween columns6. Flexible utilization of space24