Technical Resources

Though designing for building performance — not just energy efficiency — is a holistic endeavor, this document will address the evolution of ASHRAE 90.1 requirements for thermal insulation and air sealing in the building envelope.

Three types of rigid foam insulation are generally specified for precast insulated wall systems: expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS) and polyisocyanurate (ISO). CarbonCast® technology is one of the few enclosure systems that enables the use of any of the three options. The information here will help you decide which type of insulation is best suited for your application.

Learning Objectives:  Identify three types of carbon fiber grid-reinforced enclosure systems Discuss three ways precast contributes to LEED points and conforms to IgCC requirements Explain three key characteristics of carbon fiber grid reinforcement in precast concrete Compare the strengths of carbon fiber grid-reinforced precast with three alternative systems

This course on AEC Daily presents information on graphically imaged precast concrete: a creative, inspiring technology that can be used by architects and designers to create visually impactful building façades and other concrete surfaces. Discussed are the fabrication process, design possibilities, and budgeting considerations. Global case studies present a range of applications of both stock and unique designs. 1 AIA CEU/HSW will be awarded upon successful completion of the course.

This course on AEC Daily explains and illustrates how high-performance, fully composite insulated sandwich wall panels can be detailed to achieve continuous insulation. It explores the pros, cons, and attributes of wythe connectors such as carbon fiber trusses as well as panel insulation options, manufacturing and testing procedures, and installation methods. It concludes by providing a comprehensive set of sample installations to illustrate the broad range of building types and appearances that can be created with insulated sandwich wall systems. 1 AIA CEU/HSW will be awarded upon successful completion of the course.

Learning Objectives: Identify seven project cost drivers Compare panel sizes and their impact on erection costs Discuss three ways reduced weight can influence project costs Evaluate cost impact of three precast finishes

The purpose of architectural acoustics is to create an environment where sounds are clearly heard by the intended listener and noise is isolated or absorbed. Precast concrete can provide good acoustics that can enhance productivity in offices, provide a more conducive learning environment in schools and deliver a better quality of life in residential units.

With CarbonCast Enclosure Systems, you can select from a variety of cement colors, pigments and aggregates to create a distinctive wall surface. These 25 samples demonstrate the versatility and remarkable visual range possible with CarbonCast walls. Finish options, aggregate choices and other aesthetic treatments vary depending on geography and precaster. Your AltusGroup precaster will help with a mix design that meets your aesthetic desires as well as technical requirements. You can also incorporate eye-catching patterns, images and designs using the Graphic Concrete process from your AltusGroup precaster. It’s an ideal way to add a distinctive, highly aesthetic look to complement the palette of precast finishes. Click on a thumbnail to enlarge and zoom to see texture. White Burnish White Polish White Sandblast White Acid Etch White Fossil Gray Burnish Gray Polish Gray Sandblast Gray Acid Etch Gray Fossil Black Burnish Black Polish Black Sandblast Black Acid Etch Black Fossil Buff Burnish Buff Polish Buff Sandblast Buff Acid Etch Buff Fossil Cream Burnish Cream Polish Cream Sandblast Cream Acid Etch Cream Fossil

Learning Objectives: Identify common perceptions about precast enclosures and contrast them with realities Identify technologies and designs that can reduce precast weight List three precast forming options Explain three ways that precast can attain sustainable design goals

The concept of sustainability in construction has been steadily redefined over the past decade. This brief explores how the idea of resiliency has risen to the fore and how ratings systems have advanced to keep pace. The sustainable aspects of precast insulated wall systems are itemized and explained.

Rain screen systems can be complex to design and complicated to install, while a properly designed and installed precast wall system provides a virtually impenetrable exterior moisture barrier. This five-page PDF explains rain barrier/rain screen philosophies and showcases CarbonCast’s ability to limit the chance for moisture infiltration. Several diagrams illustrate the two approaches.

High Performance Insulated Wall Panels in Data Center Construction and Efficiency Data centers require significant HVAC capacity to offset the heat generated by the servers. Precast concrete walls with continuous insulation are an ideal solution for energy efficiency and resilience.

Learning Objectives: Explain how LEED® and IgCC apply to precast enclosures Explain three ways precast helps to control heat flow in wall design Distinguish two types of insulation and their uses in precast wall assemblies Discuss three ways precast controls moisture flow in wall design

The building envelope is critical in regulating internal building temperatures and determining how much energy is required to heat or cool a structure. Thermally efficient exterior wall systems aim to mitigate heat transfer and energy loss. This brief explores the concept of thermal transfer and illustrates how CarbonCast products provide outstanding thermal efficiency.