Episode 118 - Do You Really Need Rebar?
The Structural Engineering Podcast
In this episode, we sit down with Claire Gandee from Bekaert to explore how steel fiber reinforced concrete is changing the way engineers design slab-on-grade and industrial floor systems. Using two comparable projects, one with conventional reinforcement and one with steel fibers, we discuss how the design process changes, what the fibers are actually doing after concrete cracks, and when steel fibers can replace traditional reinforcing steel. Claire explains how fibers influence crack control, joint spacing, durability, constructability, and long-term performance, while also addressing...
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Episode 117 - When Design Becomes Evidence
The Structural Engineering Podcast
In this episode, we sit down with forensic structural engineer Mark Duckett, PE, SI, from Robson Forensic to explore what happens when engineering decisions are examined long after a project is complete. We discuss the role of expert witnesses, what the legal system means by "standard of care," and how forensic engineers use the scientific method to investigate failures, defects, and construction disputes. Mark explains the difference between simply disagreeing with a design approach and identifying a true breach of professional responsibility, while sharing insights into how root causes are...
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Episode 116 - Nonlinear Twists: An Easy Path into Complex Structure
The Structural Engineering Podcast
In Episode 116, we explore the world of nonlinear structural analysis and performance-based seismic design. We discuss when nonlinear methods become necessary, how pushover analysis helps engineers understand building behavior beyond elastic limits, and where these advanced tools fit within modern codes and standards. The conversation covers modeling challenges, common misconceptions, software workflows, seismic performance objectives, and real-world applications where nonlinear analysis can fundamentally change design decisions. We also look ahead to how increased computing power, AI, and...
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Episode 115 - The Gap That Saves Buildings
The Structural Engineering Podcast
In this episode, we dive into facade engineering and explore how building skins are designed to accommodate wind, seismic drift, thermal movement, construction tolerances, and long-term building behavior. We discuss the different types of facade systems, the loads they are designed for, and why movement joints are one of the most critical and often misunderstood parts of facade design. The conversation covers slip joints, story drift, facade deflection criteria, joint sizing, masonry veneer challenges, and the coordination required between structural engineers, facade engineers, architects,...
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Episode 114 - Yielding for a Better Brace
The Structural Engineering Podcast
In Episode 114, we dig into buckling restrained braced frames with Brandt Saxey, SE, of CoreBrace. We talk through how BRBFs work, what makes them different from traditional concentrically braced frames, and why yielding in both tension and compression without global buckling makes them such an effective seismic system. The conversation also covers brace behavior, energy dissipation, detailing considerations, coordination with manufacturers, common design misconceptions, and how BRBs are being used in mass timber and other modern structural systems. Guest Profile: Brandt Saxey, SE, is the VP...
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Episode 113 - How Software Leaders See the Future of Structural Engineering
The Structural Engineering Podcast
In this episode, we dig into the future of structural engineering software with the North American CEO and Chief Product Officer of IDEA StatiCa. We talk through why connection design is such a difficult problem to solve digitally, where traditional spreadsheets and simplified checks can fall short, and how engineers can balance speed, analytical rigor, and judgment. The conversation also covers AI, automation, interoperability, software adoption, and what skills young engineers need to build as structural design workflows continue to evolve. Guest Profile: Stephanie Bourgeois Kennard is the...
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Episode 112 – Good Connections Make Great Structures
The Structural Engineering Podcast
In this episode, we dig into structural connection design and explore why connections are far more than just the final step of a project. We talk through how engineers approach connections as critical components that influence constructability, architectural expression, fabrication efficiency, and even the overall behavior of the structure itself. We break down how engineers think about clean and efficient connection detailing, why exposed connections often require much earlier coordination in the design process, and how lessons from tension structures and “form follows force” design can...
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Episode 111 - Can Glass Really Be Structural?
The Structural Engineering Podcast
In this episode, we dig into structural glass design and explore why glass in buildings can be far more than a transparent enclosure. We talk through how engineers approach glass as a true structural material in systems where stiffness, redundancy, detailing, and post-breakage behavior can be just as important as ultimate strength. We break down how engineers think about glass in tension, compression, and bending, how laminated assemblies and interlayers improve resilience, and why connections often control the performance of the entire system. The conversation also covers the differences...
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Episode 110 - Venues Aren’t “Just Code”: Vibration, Rigging & Mall Reuse
The Structural Engineering Podcast
In this episode, we dig into entertainment and retail design and explore why venues can’t be engineered by code compliance alone. We talk through how structural engineers approach performance-driven spaces like concert venues, theaters, and experiential retail where vibration, rigging, sightlines, and serviceability often control the design more than strength. We break down how engineers think about vibration tolerance and human perception, how rigging grids are designed for unknown future shows, and why exposed structure can either elevate architecture or become a liability. The...
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Episode 109 – How Coastal Structures Hold Back the Ocean
The Structural Engineering Podcast
In this episode, we dig into flood and wave design and explore when water transitions from a site consideration into a true structural load case. We talk through how engineers identify flood risk, interpret FEMA flood maps, and determine when flood, wave, or debris loads must be considered—especially for engineers who typically design in dry conditions. We break down the difference between flood loads and wave impact, how elevated structures, piles, and breakaway walls behave under water-driven forces, and where standard structural intuition starts to fall apart. The conversation also...
info_outlineIn this episode, we sit down with Claire Gandee from Bekaert to explore how steel fiber reinforced concrete is changing the way engineers design slab-on-grade and industrial floor systems.
Using two comparable projects, one with conventional reinforcement and one with steel fibers, we discuss how the design process changes, what the fibers are actually doing after concrete cracks, and when steel fibers can replace traditional reinforcing steel. Claire explains how fibers influence crack control, joint spacing, durability, constructability, and long-term performance, while also addressing common misconceptions and practical considerations for specifying fiber reinforced concrete.
We also dive into the real-world impacts on cost, schedule, sustainability, and field construction, highlighting where engineers can unlock the greatest value and where conventional reinforcement still has an important role. Whether you design warehouses, data centers, manufacturing facilities, or other concrete slabs, this episode provides practical guidance to help you confidently evaluate when steel fiber reinforced concrete is the right solution.
Guest Profile:
Claire Gandee is a technical sales leader at Bekaert, where she works with engineers, owners, and contractors to optimize slab-on-ground and industrial floor systems using steel fiber reinforced concrete. Drawing on her background in concrete design software and structural applications, Claire helps project teams improve constructability, performance, and sustainability through innovative reinforcement solutions. She is a frequent speaker and educator on industrial concrete floors, steel fiber reinforcement, and practical design methodologies.
Sponsor:
This episode is sponsored by Bekaert Corporation.
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