Online course "Visual and instrumental inspection of buildings and structures"

The course focuses on testing methods (including non-destructive methods), load analysis, calculating the residual life of structures using specialized software (LIRA-FEM), and developing measures to strengthen and restore elements and foundations.

The course develops a comprehensive understanding of the technical condition of buildings and the preparation of reliable reporting documentation based on survey results.

Course program

Learning objectives

1. To develop a systematic understanding of the tasks and stages of structural inspection in accordance with current regulatory documents (Eurocodes, SNiP, etc.).

2. Master the methods of visual, instrumental and computational control, including non-destructive and destructive methods.

3. Learn to identify and classify defects and damage.

4. To study the operating principles of various types of structural elements (beams, trusses, columns, walls, foundations) and the characteristic features of their damage.

5. Assess the load-bearing capacity and residual life of structures using modern software (e.g. LIRA).

6. Acquire skills in developing technically sound measures to strengthen and restore load-bearing structures.

7. Learn to correctly prepare reporting documentation.

Course program

1. General principles of inspection of building structures

• Objectives and tasks of the survey.
• Regulations, normative documents (SNiP, SP RK, standards of the CIS countries).
• Types of examinations (primary, periodic, detailed, instrumental).
• Methods for assessing the condition of structures (visual, instrumental, computational).

2. Defects and damage to reinforced concrete structures

• Damage to concrete and reinforcement: corrosion, cracks, destruction, strength defects.
• Deformations and destruction: deflections, loss of stability, general destruction.
• Environmental influences: temperature and humidity factors, fire;
• Strengthening methods.

3. Defects and damage to stone structures

• Masonry defects: cracks, weathering, destruction of elements.
• Deformations and settlements: tilts, deflections, displacements.
• Influence of aggressive environments: moisture, frost, fire.
• Strengthening methods.

4. Defects and damage to metal structures

• Corrosion damage.
• Deformations (deflections, loss of stability).
• Fatigue damage.
• Destruction of welded and bolted joints.
• Consequences of exposure to high temperatures and fire.
• Strengthening methods.

5. Defects and damage to wooden structures

• Biodamage: rotting, insect damage.
• Mechanical damage and deformation: cracks, delamination, deflection, loss of stability.
• Connection defects and external influences: loosening of joints, fire, moisture.
• Strengthening methods.

6. Foundations

• Types of foundations (strip, slab, pile, columnar).
• Methods of foundation survey.
• Foundation defects and the reasons for their occurrence.
• The influence of soil deformations.
• Strengthening methods.

7. Methods of instrumental inspection of structures

• Non-destructive testing methods.
• Destructive testing methods (laboratory tests).
• Geodetic methods for monitoring the position of elements.

8. Use of the LIRA-FEM software package in solving problems of surveying the technical condition of structures.