Tall Buildings Lecture tour will explain design behind behind Burj Khalifa

on Friday,October 15,2010 14:10

In a unique Tall Buildings Lecture tour, all four presidents of the Royal Institute of British Architects, the Institution of Civil Engineers, the Institution of Structural Engineers and The Concrete Society will present "The story behind the Burj Khalifa - Building an idea: Materials and Codes of Practice Challenges."

The individuals will tell the story behind the design, engineering and construction of Dubai's record-breaking landmark, Burj Khalifa. The evening lecture was written to provide insight into the challenges faced by the design team in the 2,716.5 foot-high, 160 story tower, which is the tallest building and tallest free-standing structure in the world.

Guest speakers will reveal how innovation in structural design and materials technology helped design the tower while remaining in line with codes of practice and the need for cost-effective construction. The rationale behind the use of concrete as the primary structural material will be explored as well.

Leading the lecture will be Dr Andy Davids, an internationally recognized high structures expert and director of buildings at Hyder Consulting Middle East. Also speaking will be Angus McFarlane, a seismic design expert and concrete materials engineer who was responsible for the design certification of Burj Khalifa.