FAQ

Q:What is a structure?

     A: Structures are an arrangement of multiple parts that support something complex. This definition is a broad term that can apply to all objects that may be considered structures.

Q:What are some causes to a structure's collapse?

     A: Many scenarios can lead to a structure's failure including a design flaw, earthquakes, wind, flooding, erosion, heavy loads, and fire. Most of these failures can be prevented through high-quality engineering.

Q:How did the Tacoma Narrows Bridge Collapse?

     A: The Tacoma Narrows Bridge collapsed due to accumulating circumstances. The bridge's budget was reduced from 11 million to just 7 million. This budget reduction lead the engineers to become inventive and use a form of deck support that was never used on a suspension bridge before. This change allowed for oscillations in the deck due to perpendicular winds. Eventually when the winds reached 46 mph the bridge was pushed to its breaking point, and eventually the first tie slipped and the bridge collapsed shortly after.

Q:What are some consequence of a Structural Failure?

     A: Once a structure fails numerous consequences can arise. In unfortunate situations human life can be one of many consequence, in this situation there can be financial and legal ramifications pertaining to the loss of human life. Other consequences include environmental damage, economical damage and impacts on the public opinion of the company involved.

Q:How did the South Fork Dam fail?

     A: The South Fork Dam failed as a result of poor maintenance. The dam was not properly taken care of, the bridge being sold on multiple occasions experienced design changes such as the emoval of its cast iron pipes. These cast iron pipes were responsible for releasing the water in a controlled manor. Several leaks had appeared in the years prior to the dam's failure, giving evidence that it was not structurally sound. Significant rainfall lead to the dam flooding. Once the water began flowing over top of the dam, the dam started eroding and eventually gave way.

Q: What were the repercussions of the Dam's collapse?

Once the dam failed the water that it was holding back was able to rush through the valley destroying several towns including Johnstown. Over 2,000 people died and there was approximately 17 million dollars in damage. Relief efforts aided in helping the victims but there were no legal repercussions against the owners of the dam.

Q: What was learned from the failures of the Dam's collapse?

In order to have a structurally sound dam proper maintenance must be exercised. Without proper maintenance the likelihood of the structure's failure significantly increases.

Q:How did the Hyatt Regency walkway collapse?

Poor design planning lead to the supports for the walkways having to support twice the load that they were originally designed for. This inconsistency gave the supports just enough strength to support the dead load the walkways gave.

Q: What were the repercussions of the Hotel's collapse?

With 114 deaths an investigation was conducted, Jack D. Gillum was found guilty of unprofessional conduct and negligence. The engineering firm lost its status of recognition and Gillum lost his ability to practice engineering in the state of Missouri.

Q: What was learned from the Failures of Hyatt's walkway collapse?

The original design was able to hold the required loads but when the design was changed the supports were not strong enough. If the plans need to be changed as they were in this situation , the engineer must ensure that the new plans will meet all of the necessary requirements.

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