In this episode, I talk with Sonia Sorabella Swift, P.E., director of engineering at Menard USA, about how rigid inclusions and piles enhance safety and durability in modern construction. We break down their function and impact on buildings, bridges, and infrastructure.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Sonia:
- Can you explain what rigid inclusions are, how they’re different from piles, and some common misconceptions about them?
- What are the main differences between rigid inclusions and piles, and how do those differences influence their use?
- Can you describe the concept of the spectrum of applicability for rigid inclusions and how it applies to different projects?
- How can a project team decide where their project falls on the spectrum of applicability for rigid inclusions?
- What are the benefits and challenges of using a load transfer platform with rigid inclusions on projects with high bearing capacity or varying soil conditions?
- What strategies have you found helpful for promoting strong teamwork and communication among all the parties involved in a project?
- What final piece of advice would you give to engineers who want to deepen their knowledge of foundation solutions, especially rigid inclusions and piles?
Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How Rigid Inclusions Make Modern Construction Safer:
- Rigid inclusions are often mistaken for piles because both reduce settlement and enhance bearing capacity, but they differ in design and behavior. Unlike piles, rigid inclusions share load with the surrounding soil, requiring unique design considerations and advanced modeling tools to optimize performance.
- Rigid inclusions are separated from the structure by a load transfer platform, allowing for the use of spread footings and slabs on grade, unlike piles that connect directly to the superstructure. This approach typically reduces costs and accommodates greater settlement tolerances, ranging from one to two inches, compared to the minimal settlement usually required for piles.
- The spectrum of applicability for rigid inclusions spans from low-risk projects with good soils and low loads to high-risk projects with soft soils and high loads. Placement on the spectrum involves teamwork among the project team to evaluate risks, apply appropriate design conservatism, and adjust methodologies for higher-risk conditions.
- Determining placement on the spectrum for rigid inclusions is a qualitative process that examines factors like soil conditions, high bearing pressures, seismic loading, and settlement tolerances. Collaboration with the design team is essential to understanding these triggers and predicting how the project will perform under field conditions.
- Load transfer platforms effectively distribute loads and provide flexibility in rigid inclusion elevation, but their thickness can lead to increased settlement in soft soils. Addressing these challenges may require adjustments such as thickening slabs, adding reinforcement, or revising the design approach to maintain stability and performance.
- Clear communication among project team members addresses key concerns like material costs, accessibility, and performance expectations early in the process. Short, focused discussions uncover potential issues, prevent surprises during construction, and contribute to smoother project execution.
- Engineers advance their expertise by asking questions and remaining open to understanding system behavior and optimization. Rigid inclusions offer cost-effective, environmentally friendly design opportunities that utilize good soil conditions to create leaner, more efficient solutions.
More Details in This Episode…
About Sonia Swift, P.E.
Sonia Sorabella Swift, P.E., is Menard USA’s director of engineering and is based in Boston, Massachusetts. She has 18 years of experience in ground improvement design and is responsible for the overall management of Menard’s design team and design protocols. During her career, Sonia has worked on the design and implementation of ground improvement systems for a variety of projects, including warehouses, roadway widening and abutments, industrial and commercial buildings, and multifamily residences. She has enjoyed evaluating and implementing new design techniques and helping to evolve the design of ground improvement, especially rigid inclusions. Sonia is a member of the DFI Ground Improvement Committee and ASCE-XX Standard Subcommittee on Ground Improvement and serves on the Rigid Inclusion Task Forces within those two committees.
About the Host: Jared M. Green, P.E., BC.GE, F.ASCE
Jared, originally from southwest Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, graduated from Syracuse University’s College of Engineering in 2001 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. He later went on to attain his M.S. in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical Focus) from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Campaign, in 2002. In 2003, he began working in the New York City office of Langan. He has since become a Principal / Vice President and is one of the owners of this international land development engineering consulting firm. After 15 years at Langan, Jared moved to the Philadelphia office and is one of the geotechnical practice leaders in that office.
Jared is a consultant and team leader who also enjoys mentoring young engineers and first-generation college students. He has been instrumental in increasing the number of pre-college students who are interested in STEAM majors and fields. He strives to make complex engineering topics relatable and understandable to people new to the field and to people who are completely unfamiliar with engineering. Jared and his family currently reside in Flemington, New Jersey. He and his wife have three energetic, inquisitive, and awesome children. You can connect with Jared here.
Sources/References:
Menard USA
GEI Consultants
Connect with Sonia Swift, P.E., on LinkedIn
Please leave your comments or questions in the section below on how rigid inclusions make modern construction safer.
