CMAA_News3

NUMBER 3
MARCH 2001

PAST ARTICLES INDEX



		Concrete Segmental Retaining Wall Systems (CSRWS) New Standard Being Developed CE/32 Committee - Reinforced Soil and Retaining Structures
				Australian Defence Industry blast wall, Benalla, Victoria.

Background

Concrete segmental retaining wall systems were initially developed in the early 1980's as low, non-critical retaining walls, ideal for landscape use. Their popularity increased significantly when geosynthetic soil reinforcements were incorporated with the units to form soil-reinforced structures suitable for all retaining wall applications. These systems (capable of being fully engineered) are attractive, flexible, cost-effective and easy to install. CSRWS offer benefits over conventional retaining wall types and as a result are the fastest growing retaining wall system in the world.



			Code Development Standards Australia is developing a code entitled Reinforced Soil and Retaining Structures. The new code will codify in a generic sense the following: safety levels partial loading and material factors limit state design methodologies compatibility with loading standard AS 1170 The code will set limits on the above requirements - no particular design methodologies are nominated in the new code. Design for concrete segmental retaining wall systems have usually been carried out using proprietary design information and software.
	Significance With the publication of the Australian code imminent, the CMAA will develop a standardised generic engineering approach for the analysis and design of CSRWS. The benefit of the single "consensus" design approach is greater understanding, confidence and acceptance of CSRWS by design and construction professionals. The development of an industry generic approach to the design, specification and detailing of CSRWS will assist greatly in achieving a larger usage in the marketplace.
	National Seminars With the publication of the new code imminent and the development of an industry design guide, the CMAA and the Concrete Institute of Australia have teamed up to organise and present seminars covering both the code and the design guide. The seminars will be conducted in all state capitals during February/March 2002. Please pre-register your interest by e-mailing us at admin@cmaa.com.au.

Sponsoring Members

GENERAL MEMBERS	ASSOCIATES	INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATES
Archistone Pty Ltd (WA) Baines Masonry (NSW) BCP Building Products Pty Ltd (NSW) Capricornia Rockblock Pty Ltd (QLD) Cowra Concrete Products Pty Ltd ECS Masonry Systems Pty Ltd (VIC) Island Block and Paving Pty Ltd (TAS) McKeno Blocks & Pavers (WA) Scott Brickworks Townsville (QLD) Tudor Pavers Pty Ltd (SA)	Cathay Industries Australasia Pty Ltd (NSW) Cement Australia Pty Ltd (QLD) Columbia Concrete Block Machine Pty Ltd (QLD) Lanxess Pty Ltd (NSW) Skillswest (NSW) Sam the Paving Man Pty Ltd (NSW) Techni-Seal Australia (NSW) Rockwood Pigments and Trading Pty Ltd (VIC)	Monier Limited, Papua New Guinea