Swantest have the expertise to carry out load capacity tests on a wide range of structures throughout the demolition and construction industries. Knowing the load capacity of an existing floor slab is a critical factor in any demolition project. Traditional top down demolition techniques use excavators and other machinery throughout a building, demolishing the structure floor by floor.

 

In order to determine the size of machinery that can safely operate on existing floor slabs, Swantest can carry out a load test to physically test the floor slab and check deflection limits.  Compared to a calculated design check or analysis,  this type of test can demonstrate that larger machinery can be used on the slabs which can result in time and cost savings.

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Generally we use a series of hydraulic cylinders to apply a load to an area but we can also use large water containers as kentledge or mass concrete blocks if required.

 

As well as testing existing slabs for load capacity during demolition we can use similar principals to load test various other structures. Previously we have tested such areas as:

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• Ground bearing slabs and pile groups to check for settlement

• Timber jetties in water to allow refurbishment work

• Areas of buildings where there is a change of use of the slab

• Old timber floors where the condition is unknown

• Lifting beams and gantry cranes

• Suspended slabs to be used as stockpile areas

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All of our load capacity tests are carried out it accordance with approved methods and using a factor of safety. Swantest will provide a full report and analysis for each test carried out.