|
Here is a ready guide to the difference between Echo Floors and Echo Prestress
On-site experience and case studies have advanced compelling evidence that when it comes to laying concrete floors, the preast panel system is quicker, more efficient and significantly more cost effective than traditional beam and block and in-situ methods.
The evidence applies to the differing applications of both hollow-core prestressed and hollow-core reinforced panels. They fulfil the same purpose in the same way but for different types of jobs.
For many architects, builders and developers the case has been proven beyond further debate. However, some confusion persists in the construction industry as to the correct applications of the two slab systems manufactured by the two separate but related companies – Echo Floors and Echo Prestress. Echo Floors panels are used on construction projects which do not require very large spans. Echo Prestress on the other hand, is generally used on construction projects where larger spans are required.
To clear any confusion lets look at the two systems in more detail:
|
ECHO FLOORS
(only available in Gauteng)
|
ECHO PRESTRESS
(Available in Gauteng and Durban)
|
|
Slab type
|
Reinforced hollow-core slabs cast in a mould
|
Prestressed slipformed hollow-core slabs
|
|
Slab widths
|
Standard 900mm
Can be cut to non-standard widths in 100mm increments
|
Standard 1200mm
Can be cut to non-standard widths in 100mm increments.
|
|
Slab depths
|
Standard 150mm
Should additional loading / depth be required a structural topping may be applied.
|
Standard 120mm, 150mm, 170mm, 200mm and 250mm
|
| Spans between load bearing walls sample live load of 2.5 kN/m2 |
Clear Spans |
Live Load 2.5 kN/m2 |
Clear Spans |
Live Load 2.5 kN/m2 |
| 0 – 5.0m |
Requires a levelling screed and no propping. |
0-5.0m |
150mm + levelling screed – no propping (120mm slabs are only recommended for walkways, balconies and roof slabs). |
|
5.1 - 6.5m
|
With 50mm structural topping plus one prop per panel – mid span. |
0 – 6.5m |
150mm + levelling screed. No propping. |
| 6.6 – 6.8.0m |
With 80mm structural topping plus one prop per panel – mid span. |
6.6 – 8.0m |
200mm + levelling screed. No propping. |
|
Spans over internal load-bearing walls.
6,9-8.2m
|
Require internal 110mm load bearing walls, hard-packed to underside of slab. No props required unless spans exceed 5m between 110mm walls. |
8.1 – 11.0m |
250mm + levelling screed. No propping. |
|
Project suitability
|
Projects with short span requirements
Townhouses, clusters, affordable/social housing, small industrial and commercial structures, building alterations and individual houses
|
Projects with long span requirements
Townhouses with minimal internal load bearing walls, commercial industrial, medium rise load bearing masonry structures of up to 6 storeys, clinics, suspended ground floor slabs, schools, reservoir roofs, security and retaining walls.
|
|
Manufacturing process
|
A stock of slabs enables installations within 2 days after site measurement and allows greater flexibility to cope with last minute changes in slab dimensions.
|
This is a purpose made slab which is produced to as built dimensions which are confirmed 5 working days prior to installation.
|
|
Speed of installation
|
Delivery and installation within 80km of the factory
400 – 500m 2 per day per installation team
|
Delivery and installation within 80km of the factory
400 – 500m 2 per day per installation team
|
COST SAVING: The common factor
The prestressed and precast panels share a number of major advantages. The key common factor is the comparative ease and swiftness of installation and the significant financial savings which are possible as a result. For developers, earlier occupation by tenants means a quicker return on investment, for the builder or contractor earlier progress draws improve overall cash-flow. All benefit. |