HOLLOW CORE SLAB - ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

Hollow Core Slab

Hollow core slab is also know as a voided slab, hollow core plank or simply a concrete plank is a precast slab of prestressed concrete concrete typically used in the construction of floor in multi-story apartment buildings.In hollow core slab the main function of core is to maximizing structural efficiency, reduce the self weight of slabs and work as a service ducts.

The precast concrete slab has tubular voids extending the full length of the slab, typically with a diameter equal to the 2/3 - 3/4 the thickness of the slab.This makes the slab much lighter than a massive solid concrete floor slab of equal thickness or strength.The slab are typically 1200 mm wide with standard thickness normally between 150 mm and 500 mm.These type of slabs are precast and it is used where the construction has to be done fast.

The hollow core ribed slabs have between four and six longitudinal core running through them, the primary purpose of the cores being to decrease the weight and material within the floor yet maintain maximal strength.To increase the strength of the slab, it is reinforced with 12 mm diameter steel stand running longitudinally. This is one of the types of concrete slabs.

Advantages Of Hollow Core Slab

• Fast construction.
• High load capacity.
• Reduce self-weight.
• Excellent fire resistance.
• Excellent sound insulation.
• Excellent thermal properties.
• Easy to install and required less labour.
• Long spans without intermediate supports.
• Green product reduce the use of raw materials.
• No additional formwork or any special construction machinery is required.
• It not only reduces the building costs it also reduces the overall weight of the structure. 

Disadvantages Of Hollow Core Slab

• Not economical for small spans.
• Difficult to repair and strengthen.
• Required special equipment for lifting and moving the precast units.
• Required proper handling during transportation other wise it get damaged.
• It is difficult to produce satisfactory connections between the precast members.