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  • About
  • The Global ETD Search service is a free service for researchers to find electronic theses and dissertations. This service is provided by the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations.
    Our metadata is collected from universities around the world. If you manage a university/consortium/country archive and want to be added, details can be found on the NDLTD website.
241

Developing an alternative approach to mode choice modelling with the application of modelling Gautrain patronage

Marais, Andre Louis 04 1900 (has links)
Thesis (MScEng)--Stellenbosch University, 2014. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Mode choice modelling is an important and versatile tool that can aid decision makers with transit related strategies and scenario planning. The traditional approach to modelling public transport is labour intensive and requires many resources. The expensive nature of developing mode choice models can also act as a deterrent for developing a model. Not having access to a functional mode choice model can force decision makers to make important decisions without having access to proper information. There is therefore a need to provide a simplified solution for developing a functional mode choice model that can be developed and maintained with fewer resources. This research project explores the possibility of developing a simplified alternative approach to public transport modelling that can model mode choice behaviour with the same degree of accuracy as traditional models. The modelling steps employed in this research project were the typical four step demand modelling approach, but the principles employed differ slightly. The focus area of this research project is the development of simplified utility functions and the calibration thereof. Typical mode choice models coincide with many assumptions, variations and uncertainties. In this research project the proposed utility functions are simplified by incorporating most of the assumptions and intangible components of the utility function into a single station to station specific calibration factor. The hypothesis is that a simplified alternative approach to the utility functions can still provide a model that is purpose built and functional. The application of the proposed mode choice model is to model the mode choice between the Gautrain and private vehicles as the major mode of transport.
242

The seismic analysis of a typical South African unreinforced masonry structure

Van Der Kolf, Thomas 04 1900 (has links)
Thesis (MEng)--Stellenbosch University, 2014. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: South Africa has some regions which are susceptible to moderate seismic activity. A peak ground acceleration of between 0.1g and 0.15g can be expected in the southern parts of the Western Cape. Unreinforced Masonry (URM) is commonly used as a construction material for 2 to 4 storey buildings in underprivileged areas in and around Cape Town. URM is typically regarded as the material most vulnerable to damage when subjected to earthquake excitation. In this study, a three-storey URM building was analysed by applying seven earthquake time-histories, that can be expected to occur in South Africa, to a finite element model. Experimental data was used to calibrate the in- and out-of-plane stiffness of the URM. A linear modal dynamic analysis and non-linear implicit dynamic analysis were performed. The results indicated that tensile cracking of the in-plane piers was the dominant failure mode. The building relied on the postcracking capacity to resist the 0.15g magnitude earthquake. It is concluded that URM buildings of this type are at risk of failure especially if sufficient ductility is not provided. The results also showed that connection failure must be investigated further. Construction and material quality will have a large effect on the ability of typical URM buildings to withstand moderate magnitude earthquakes in South Africa. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Sekere gebiede in Suid-Afrika het ’n risiko van matige seismiese aktiwiteit. Aardbewings met maksimum grondversnellings van tussen 0.1g en 0.15g kan in die suidelike gedeeltes van die Wes- Kaap voorkom. Twee- tot vier-verdieping onbewapende messelwerkgeboue kom algemeen voor in die lae sosio-ekonomiese gebiede van Kaapstad. Oor die algemeen word onbewapende messelwerkgeboue as die gebou-tipe beskou wat die maklikste skade opdoen tydens aardbewings. In hierdie studie is sewe aardbewings, wat tipies in Kaapstad verwag kan word, identifiseer en gebruik om ’n tipiese drie-verdieping onbewapende messelwerkgebou te analiseer. Eksperimentele data is gebruik om die materiaaleienskappe in die in-vlak asook uit-vlak rigtings te kalibreer. Beide ’n liniêre modale en nie-liniˆere implisiete dinamiese analises is uitgevoer. Die resultate dui daarop dat die dominante falingsmode die kraak van in-vlak messelwerk-tussenkolomme is. Die gebou moes sy plastiese kapasiteit benut om die 0.15g aardbewing te kan weerstaan. Die gevolgtrekking is dat dié tipe onbewapende messelwerkgeboue ’n risiko inhou om mee te gee, veral as genoegsame vervormbaarheid nie verskaf word nie. Die resultate toon ook dat konneksie-faling verder ondersoek moet word. Kwaliteit van vakmanskap en van materiaal het ’n groot invoed op die vermoë van onbewapende messelwerkgeboue om aardbewings van matige intensiteit in Suid-Afrika te weerstaan.
243

Flexibility and performance properties of bitumen stabilised materials

Nwando, Tiyon Achille 04 1900 (has links)
Thesis (MScEng)--Stellenbosch University, 2014. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This research investigates the flexibility and the performance properties of bitumen stabilised materials under the influence of mix variables. The laboratory testing consisted of two main phases. During the first phase (mix design), the strength and the flexibility of the mixes were assessed through ITS (Indirect Tensile Strength), UCS (Unconfined Compressive Strength), displacement at break, strain at break and fracture energy. The second phase consisted of a series of triaxial tests done to assess the performance properties (shear strength: cohesion and angle of internal friction; and stiffness: resilient modulus) of the mixes. The mineral aggregates used in this study were milled from different locations of the R35, near Bethal. This was a blend of granular material (dolerite, from various locations of the existing base and subbase layer of the R35) and Reclaimed Asphalt (RA) milled from the existing surfacing. During the mix design phase, two types of bituminous binders were used (bitumen emulsion and foamed bitumen) at bitumen content ranges of 2%, 2.4% and 2.8% each. Two types of active filler were used separately and in combination at a proportion of 1% and 2%. Finally, specimens were tested in wet and dry conditions for each mix combination. During the triaxial testing phase, only the optimum bitumen content of 2.4% was used, both for bitumen emulsion and foamed bitumen, with only cement as active filler in a proportion 1% and 2%. The specimens were tested at different ranges of densities and saturation levels. The flexibility of the mix was assessed through the fracture energy, the strain and the displacement at break parameters. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted on the data to assess the significance of experimental variables on this property. This property was found to be very sensitive to bitumen and cement content added to the mix. When assessing the combined effect and the significance of the variables on the flexibility of the mixes, it was found that fracture energy is mostly influenced by the cement content, followed by the bitumen content, then the type of treatment and finally the testing condition. However, the level of significance was not in the same order for the other two parameters (displacement and strain at break). It was also found that the combined effect of some independent variables (cement content + testing condition, type of treatment + cement content + bitumen content) had a significant effect on the fracture energy and the strain at break respectively. From the ITS and UCS tests, an increase in strength was noticed with the increase of cement content. On the other hand, the increase in bitumen content led to a decrease in strength of the material. The statistical analysis on the ITS and UCS values show that the independent variable with the most significant effect on the ITS is the cement content, followed by the testing conditions, then the bitumen content and finally the type of treatment. The combined effect of cement content + bitumen content was found to be significant both for ITS and UCS. In the second phase triaxial tests were performed in order to evaluate the performance properties of the mixes. It was found that the increase of the active filler content significantly improves the shear strength of the material. It was also found that at a fixed cement content, specimens tested at low density and/or high level of saturation show low shear strength. The Mr-θ model was used to model the resilient modulus of the mixes and the model coefficients used to evaluate the effect of experimental variables on the resilient modulus. It was found that the resilient modulus of the mixes increases as the bulk stress increases. This confirms the stress dependent behaviour of bitumen stabilised materials. The analysis show that increasing the percentage of active fillers content results in a significant increase in the resilient modulus values. An increase in relative density also resulted in an increase in the resilient modulus of the mixes, while the opposite effect was observed with the increased of the saturation level. Besides the engineering properties and the mechanical test parameters, other parameters such as the Tensile Strength Ratio (TSR) was calculated in order to evaluate the moisture sensitivity of the mixes. Weakening due to moisture was found to be more predominant in the mixes with less active filler. In addition, bitumen emulsion mixes were found to have a better resistance to moisture weakening effects compared to foamed bitumen. In addition, a comparison between the rapid curing and the accelerated curing was done. Higher ITS and UCS results were obtained for specimens cured using long term curing compared to specimens cured using the accelerated curing method. In conclusion, flexibility is an important property of bitumen road construction material (bitumen stabilised material include) however, it is not an easy property to measure. Although, displacement/strain at break and fracture energy from ITS and UCS were able to give us some indications on the main factors governing the flexibility of bitumen stabilised materials (the bitumen and active filler content), more accurate and adequate tests are required to evaluate the parameter. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die buigsaamheid en gedragseienskappe van bitumen gestabiliseerde materiale was getoets om sodoende die invloed van verskeie mengselveranderlikes te evalueer. Die ondersoek het uit twee fases bestaan. Tydens die eerste fase (mengfase) is die sterkte en buigsaamheid deur middel van indirekte treksterkte toetse (ITS), onbegrensde druksterkte toetse (UCS), verplasing – en vervorming by breekpunt sowel as breek-energie toetse gedoen en ondersoek. Die tweede fase het bestaan uit ʼn reeks drie-assige triaksiaal toetse. Triaksiaaltoetse is uitgevoer om die gedragseienskappe soos die skuifsterkte, kohesie, hoek van interne wrywing, styfheid en weerstand modulus te ondersoek. Die gemaalde mineraal-aggregaat wat in hierdie ondersoek gebruik is, was verkry op verskeie areas van die R35, geleë naby Bethal. Die materiaal is ʼn mengsel van granulêre materiaal (van die bestaande kroonlaag en stutlaag van die pad) en herwonne asfalt (RA). Tydens die mengontwerp fase is twee tipes bitumen gebruik naamlik bitumenemulsie en skuimbitumen in hoeveelhede van 2%, 2.4% en 2.8%. Twee tipes aktiewe vulstof (hoeveelhede van onderskeidelik 1% en 2%) was saam met elk van die verskeie bitumen-hoeveelhede gebruik. Proefstukke van elk van hierdie mengsel kombinasies is onder beide nat en droë kondisies getoets. Tydens die tweede fase, is slegs die optimum binder inhoud (2.4%) gebruik vir beide emulsie- en skuimbitumen, gekombineer met 1% en 2% aktiewe vulstof. Proefstukke was getoets by ʼn reeks van verskillende digthede en versadigingvlakke. Die buigsaamheid was ondersoek deur middel van breek-energie, vervorming en die verplasing by breekpunt. ʼn Analise van variasie (ANOVA) is uitgevoer op die toetsdata om sodoende die te evalueer of die veranderlikes beduidend is ten opsigte van buigsaamheid. Daar is gevind dat die buigsaamheideienskap sensitief is vir beide bitumen en sement inhoud. Met assessering van die gekombineerde effek en betekenis van die veranderlikes op die buigsaamheid van die mengsels, is daar gevind dat die hoogste beduidende veranderlike t.o.v breek-energie die sement inhoud is, gevolg deur die bitumeninhoud, tipe behandeling en laastens die toetskondisie. Die orde van belangrikheid verskil vir die ander twee parameters (verplasing en vervorming by breekpunt). Daar is ook gevind dat die gekombineerde effek van sommige veranderlikes (sement inhoud en toets kondisie, tipe behandeling en sement inhoud tesame met bitumen inhoud) ook beduidend was t.o.v breek-energie en vervorming by breekpunt. Vanuit die ITS en UCS toetse was daar ʼn toename in sterkte waargeneem soos die sementinhoud toeneem. Aan die anderkant, het ʼn toename in bitumeninhoud ‘n afname in sterkte veroorsaak. Die statistiese analise van ITS en UCS resultate, toon dat die grootste beduidende onafhanklike t.o.v ITS waardes ook die sement inhoud was, gevolg deur toets kondisies die grootste effek, bitumen inhoud en die tipe behandeling. Die gekombineerde effek van sementinhoud en bitumeninhoud, was betekenisvol vir beide ITS en UCS. Drie-assige triaksiaaltoetse was uitgevoer om die gedragseienskappe van die mengsels te evalueer. Daar is gevind dat die toename in sement inhoud, die skuif sterkte van die materiaal grootliks verbeter. By ʼn konstante sementinhoud, wys toetsresultate van proefstukke wat getoets is by lae digthede en hoë vlakke van versadiging, lae skuif sterkte. Die Mr – θ model was gebruik om die veerkragsmodulus van die mengsels te moduleer en die modelkoëffisiënte is gebruik om die effek van eksperimentele veranderlikes op die weerstand modulus te evalueer. Met toename in die omhullende spanning is ‘n toename in die veerkragsmodulus waargeneem, wat bevestig dat die gedrag van bitumen gestabiliseerde materiale spannings afhanklik is. ʼn Toename in die sement en relatiewe digtheid het ʼn merkwaardige toename in die veerkragsmodulus tot gevolg gehad, terwyl die teenoorgestelde waargeneem is met toename in versadigingsvlakke. Buiten die ingenieurseienskap en meganiese toetsfaktore, is ander faktore (soos die trekspanning verhouding) bereken om die vogsensitiwiteit van die mengsels te evalueer. Mengsels met laer sement inhoud het groter verswakking ervaar met blootstelling aan water. Bitumenemulsie proefstukke toon beter weerstand teen water as skuimbitumen. Vergelyking tussen versnelde en korttermyn nabehandelingsprosedure van proefstukke, toon hoër ITS en UCS waardes vir die versnelde nabehandelingsprosedure prosedure. Buigsaamheid is ‘n belangrike eienskap van bitumen in padkonstruksie materiale (insluitend bitumen gestabiliseerde materiale), maar word moeilik gemeet. Alhoewel verplasing/vervorming by breekpunt en breek energie, bepaal vanaf ITS en UCS, ‘n indikasie toon van die hooffaktore (binder en sement) wat buigsaamheid van bitumen gestabiliseerde materiaal beïnvloed, word meer akkurate toetse benodig om die eienskap te ondersoek.
244

An Assessment of Accommodation Strategies for Coastal Adaptation in Cape Town, South Africa, in Response to Climate Change

Faasen, Petronella 04 1900 (has links)
Thesis (MScEng)--Stellenbosch University, 2014. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: As the world finds itself increasingly unable to avoid the negative impacts of the physical phenomena associated with climate change, adaptation to climate change has been brought to the forefront of the international agenda. The range of adaptation technologies available can be categorized into three basic strategies (IPCC, 1990): Protection, (managed) Retreat, or Accommodation. The practice of adapting existing developments and infrastructure in the coastal zone by the process of accommodation has not yet seen wide implementation as a formalised adaptation strategy. In order for a community to accept and successfully implement accommodation strategies, all community stakeholders are required to accept and live with a certain level of managed risk, and to also rethink the concept of failure. As a result, accommodation practices implemented globally have been closely related to fields such as risk - and disaster management. Structural innovations in the field of accommodation measures include advanced technologies to elevate existing buildings safely above flood levels, and even “amphibious” houses. In Cape Town, South Africa, the choice between protection, retreat or accommodation as an adaptation measure remains complex. Not much discussion has yet been generated concerning accommodation measures that could be implemented to reduce the risk to existing properties that are already inappropriately located in the risk zone (e.g. seaward of the coastal hazard line), by accommodating the dynamic coastal processes taking place. Accommodation has been found to be most feasible in Cape Town at case study sites with a stable, non- or slowly eroding shoreline, which are also subject to flooding. The elevation of buildings and the alteration of buildings for flood-proofing, in unison with proactive risk and disaster management, could be implemented to accommodate the impacts of flooding on affected infrastructure. Located on Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard, Bakoven serves as a case study sample of such a site where an accommodation-based adaptation solution could be feasible. Both global and regional downscaled climate models have been found to deliver a large range of future climate conditions. Assuming best estimate future predictions, Bakoven properties have been found vulnerable to extreme flooding during both status quo and future extreme events. Environmental conditions at Bakoven are favourable for the construction of piled foundations. Stringent environmental and heritage constraints imposed by local government would, however, render accommodation strategies unviable. It is recommended that government at all levels be willing to adopt a more flexible approach to governing coastal areas, to ensure that the regulations they impose remain as dynamic as the environments which they govern. The viability and possible benefits of accommodation measures, rather than protection or retreat approaches should be carefully considered on an individual case-by-case basis, in unison with the local community. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Wêreldwyd is gemeenskappe besig om toenemend te ervaar dat hul nie die nadelige gevolge van klimaatsverandering kan vryspring nie. Juis daarom, is aanpassing tot klimaatsverandering noodsaaklik. Die verskeidenheid van beskikbare benaderinge tot klimaatsverandering aanpassing kan in drie hoof kategorieë ingedeel word, volgens die IPCC (1990): Beskerming, (stelselmatige) Retireer of Akkomodasie. Die aanpassing van bestaande infrastruktuur d.m.v. akkomodasie is nog nie wyd geïmplementeer as ‘n amptelike aanpassings strategie nie. Ten einde die sukses van ‘n akkommodasie strategie te verseker, sal gemeenskappe genoodsaak wees om ‘n sekere vlak van residuele risiko te aanvaar en die konsep van die ‘faling’ te herdefinieer. Akkommodasie oplossings wêreldwyd is daarom nouliks verwant aan risiko- en rampsbestuur. Innovasies in die struktuurindustrie om die risiko van klimaatsverandering te akkommodeer, sluit onder andere in die fisiese oplig van geboue na ‘n hoër, veilige vlak, en ook die bou van sogenaamde “amfibiese” huise. In Kaapstad is die bepaling van die mees gepaste en voordelige aanpassings oplossing, net soos in die res van die wêreld, kompleks. Die moontlikheid van die gebruik van akkommodasie benaderinge en tegnologieë, eerder as beskermingsstrategieë, is nog nie welbekend of algemeen geïmplementeer nie. Daar bestaan wel ‘n geleentheid om hierdie tegnologieë toe te pas in die geval van bestaande strukture wat seewaarts van die dinamiese kusproses lyn, geleë is. Hierdie studie het bevind dat akkommodasie oplossings moontlik suksesvol kan wees by spesifieke gevallestudies langs Kaapstad se kuslyn waar die kuslyn grootendeels stabiel is. Die oplig en verandering van geboue om vloedbestand te wees, tesame met proaktiewe risiko- en rampsbestuur maatreëls, word by sommige van hierdie gevallestudies aanbeveel om die impak van klimaatsverandering te akkomodeer. Bakoven, ‘n klein gemeenskapsbuurt op Kaapstad se kuslyn, is ‘n voorbeeld van ‘n geval waar ‘n akkommodasie oplossing moontlik goed kan werk. Globale klimaatsmodelle lewer ‘n wye reeks van toekomstige klimaatsvoorspellings vir die jaar 2063. Tydens die toets van die mees waarskynlike toekomstige klimaats-scenario, is bevind dat Bakoven kwesbaar is vir die verwagte vloeding a.g.v. seevlakstyging verwag teen 2063. Daar is ook bevind dat selfs tydens huidige storms, sommige strukture aan Bakoven se kus kwesbaar is. Die omgewingstoestande by Bakoven word beskou as voordelig vir die konstruksie van heipale as fondasies om die geboue hoër op te lig. As gevolg van streng munisipale regulasies met omgewings- en geskiedkundige bewaring as doel, is hierdie opsie egter nie moontlik nie. Dit word aanbeveel dat die regulasies wat deur regeringsamptenare daargestel word, aanpasbaar genoeg moet wees om die veranderende kusomgewing in ag te neem. Die moontlikheid en volhoubaarheid van ‘n akkommodasie oplossing, eerder as ‘n beskermings- of opgee benaderinge, moet deeglik ondersoek word vir elke ‘n individuele geval, in samewerking met die betrokke gemeenskap.
245

Configurations of a piled row breakwater for a protected shallow water marina

Gous, Werner 04 1900 (has links)
Thesis (MScEng)--Stellenbosch University, 2014. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: For the safekeeping or harbouring of small craft, whether for leisure or commercial use, a tranquil basin is the principle requirement in designing a functional harbour facility. Waves transmitted through the perimeter structures of a marina result in agitation of the basin and thereby a reduction in tranquillity. Similarly, waves reflected off the perimeter structures that line entrance channels could result in difficulty when manoeuvring through the entrance channel water areas. An alternative to the conventional breakwater becomes a necessity when the conventional mass-filled or caisson breakwaters are not feasible in technical or financial terms. One of the alternative options could be to consider a piled row breakwater. In broad terms, this consists of closely spaced piles that attenuate wave energy whilst not forming an impermeable barrier, allowing for currents and sediment to pass through. When comparing the different options for creating a piled row breakwater the quantity of material used to achieve a desired level of wave dissipation could be the most important aspect in considering possible alternatives, as this would relate directly to construction costs and time when considering implementation. A literature review revealed multiple references to theories that predicted the transmitted and reflected waves for various breakwater porosities and wave conditions. However, there is limited coverage in literature enabling prospective designers. For example, literature describing the applicable ranges of shape configurations that one should start off with when developing concepts is not readily available. This thesis study used physical modelling to compare the wave transmission properties of breakwaters comprised of three different piled element shapes, namely round, square and diagonal square piles. The pile element shapes are compared for varying porosity values over a range of input wave parameters. A comparison of the transmission incurred by these configurations with previous work is presented and it was found that the physical model experiment closely simulated the predicted values. The tests were scaled from actual conditions in possible marina locations and therefore the performance criteria measured could be applied in reverse to potential site locations. From analysis of the physical model results, it was clear that the highest energy loss was found, in general, to occur with low porosities (below 10%), as could be expected. For a fixed screen configuration in terms of pile element shape and porosity, the performance is heavily dependent on wave steepness, the steeper waves incurring a lower transmission coefficient than the less steep waves. For a given porosity, circular piles performed the best (transmit the least) followed by square piles and then diagonal square. When comparing the material used, diagonal square piles yielded better performing breakwaters due to the expanded cross section gained in elevation. The work has provided useful insight into the performance of piled row breakwaters in restricting transmission of wave energy. Design guidance has been provided when considering the parameters for deriving conceptual layouts for piled row breakwater structures. Recommendations were put forward for further work in this field, including potential study areas, data gathering, and study methods, as well as more applied uses of piles, for example in combination with other elements in a marina. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: die veilige bewaring van klein vaartuie, hetsy vir ontspanning of kommersiële gebruik, is die hoofvereiste in die ontwerp van 'n funksionele hawe fasiliteit dat die beskermde hawegebied ‘n rustende water oppervlak sal moet handhaaf. Golwe wat oorgedra word deur die omtrek golfbrekers van ‘n hawe deur middel van transmissie veroorsaak oppervlak versteurings in die hawe bak en dus ook ongewensde versteurings in die vasmeer kondisies. Op ‘n soortgelyke wyse, veroorsaak golwe wat gereflekteer word vanaf die toegangs kanaal golfbrekers problematiese kondisies vir die navigeer van bote deur die kanaal. Die behoefte aan 'n golfbreker alternatief vir die konvensionele oplossing word genoodsaak wanneer die konvensionele stortrots of caisson golfbrekers nie haalbaar is nie as gevolg van tegniese of finansiële aspekte (Park et al. 2000). Een van die opsies wat oorweeg kan word as 'n alternatief is ‘n heipaal-ry tipe breekwater. In breë terme, bestaan dit uit naby gespasieërde heipale om golf energie te breek, sonder om ‘n ondeurdringbare versperring te vorm. Wanneer die verskillende opsies vir die skep van 'n heipaal-ry tipe breekwater vergelyk word, kan die hoeveelheid konstruksie materiaal benodig per opsie die belangrikste vergelykende parameter word. Die rede hiervoor is die direkte verwantskap aan konstruksie kostes sowel as tyd aspekte wat gepaardgaan met die konstruksie materiaal hoeveelhede. Vanuit die literatuurstudie is verskeie verwysings geïdentifiseer waarin vorige teorieë oor oordrag en refleksie van golwe evalueer word vir wisselende porositeit waardes en intree golf waardes. Daar is egter 'n beperkte dekking in die literatuur wat ontwerps-riglyne betref. Byvoorbeeld, die toepaslike omvang van die vorm konfigurasies wat oorweeg moet word wanneer konsep ontwerp gedoen word, is nie geredelik beskikbaar nie. Hierdie tesis vergelyk, deur middel van fisiese skaal model toetse, drie heipaal-ry element vorms, naamlik ronde, vierkantige en diagonal geroteerde vierkante vir verskillende porositeit waardes oor 'n verskeidenheid van golf inset parameters. 'n Vergelyking is getref tussen die toetsdata en vorige werk en daar is bevind dat die fisiese model eksperiment die voorspelde waades uit die literatuur redelik akkuraat kon naboots. Die toets kondisies is geskaal vanaf werklike moontlike marina terreine en dus kon die toets resultate toegepas word in die ontwerp van potensiële terreine. Vanuit die data-analise, is waargeneem dat die hoogste energie verliese oor die algemeen plaasvind by laer porosititeit waardes (onder 10%) soos wat verwag kon word. Vir 'n gegewe golfbreker opset, in terme van die heipaal element vorm en porositeit, is die verrigting hoogs afhanklik van die golf steilheid, met hoër verrigting by steiler golwe. Vir 'n gegewe porositeit, sal ronde heipaal elemente die beste verrigting gee, gevolg deur vierkante heipale en laastens diagonal geroteerde vierkante. Vir soortgelyke hoeveelheid heipale, sal diagonal geroteerde vierkante beter verrigting lewer moontlik as gevolg van die verlengde deursnit dimensie in vooraansig. Hierdie navorsing het goeie insig verskaf oor golfdeurlaatbaarheid en weerkaatsing van heipaalry breekwaters. Ontwerp riglyne word ook verskaf wat betref die parameters wat gebruik kan word vir die konsep ontwikkelings fase vir heipaal-ry breekwaters. Aanbevelings word gemaak vir verdere navorsingswerk in hierdie veld, insluitend moontlike studie-areas, data insameling, studie metodes, sowel as vir meer toegepasde situasies, byvoorbeeld waar die heipaal elemente in kombinasie met ander marina komponente ontwerp moet word.
246

Predicting water quality in bulk distribution systems

Rust, Tertius 12 1900 (has links)
Thesis (MScEng)--Stellenbosch University, 2014. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The increased water demand to be supplied by municipal water distribution systems, and subsequent increased storage period of reserve water, may have implications with regards to water ageing and subsequently may have an impact on health and safety. Current master planning design standards could have a negative effect on water residence time. The decay of the disinfectant potential is a function of the residence time in the distribution system. The objective of this study is to identify and measure existing systems to optimally increase water quality in a distribution system while supplying an increase in demand, dealing with the deterioration of pipe infrastructure and the introduction of alternative water sources. To do this, one must understand the dynamics of water networks and the parameters that affect water quality. The foundation of a water quality model is based on the construction of an accurate hydraulic model. To identify and measure these systems, one must understand the aspects of water purification and the techniques used to achieve water standards in a distribution system. These techniques and standards play a huge role in the prediction of water quality. In this paper the fundamentals and techniques used to determine and measure such a model are discussed. Consequently, additional design parameters to assess water quality must be incorporated into current master planning practice to optimally design water networks. These models are used to determine the appropriate levels of disinfectant at strategic locations in a system. To illustrate these design parameters and systems currently used in practice, a case study involving Umgeni Water (UW) and EThekwini municipality (EWS) was used to determine the most suitable disinfectant strategy for a municipality’s distribution system. Future scenarios and the impact of disinfectant mixing and increased residence time of the water in the system were also determined. The use of this water quality model in a distribution system will ultimately provide a sustainable platform for a risk monitoring procedure. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die verhoogde aanvraag na water in munisipale voorsieningstelsels, en die daaropvolgende verhoogde stoortydperk van reserwe water, kan implikasies inhou met betrekking tot water veroudering waarna dit ‘n impak op gesondheid en veiligheid kan hê. Huidige meesterbeplanning ontwerpstandaarde kan 'n noemenswaardige uitwerking op water retensietyd hê, veral omdat chloor se vervaltyd op sy beurt 'n funksie van water retensietyd is. Die doel van hierdie studie is om 'n prosedure te identifiseer om watergehalte optimaal te verhoog in 'n waterverspreidingstelsel, terwyl die toename in water aanvraag voortduur. Om dit te kan doen moet die dinamika van water netwerke en die parameters wat die gehalte van water beïnvloed, bestudeer word. Die opstel van 'n waterkwaliteit model is gebaseer op die bou van 'n akkurate hidrouliese model. Om uiteindelik die ontwerp van 'n waterkwaliteit oplossing suksevol uit te voer, moet 'n mens al die aspekte van watersuiwering en die tegnieke wat gebruik word om waterstandaarde te handhaaf in 'n verspreidingstelsel verstaan. In hierdie verslag word die beginsels en tegnieke wat gebruik word om so 'n model op te stel, bespreek. Bykomende waterkwaliteit ontwerpparameters moet by huidige meesterbeplanning gevoeg word om waternetwerke optimaal te ontwerp. Hierdie modelle word gebruik om die geskikte vlakke van ontsmettingsmiddel op strategiese plekke in 'n stelsel te bepaal. 'n Gevallestudie van Umgeni Water (UW) en eThekwini-munisipaliteit (EWS) is gebruik om die mees geskikte ontsmettingsmiddel strategie vir 'n munisipaliteit se verspreiding te illustreer. Toekomstige scenario's en die impak van ontsmettingsmiddelvermenging en verhoogde retensietyd van die water in die stelsel sal ook bepaal kan word. Die gebruik van hierdie gehalte-watermodel in 'n verspreidingstelsel sal uiteindelik 'n volhoubare platform vir 'n risiko moniteringstelsel inhou.
247

Comparative study of the equivalent moment factor between international steel design specifications

Smalberger, Hermanus Johannes Wessels 12 1900 (has links)
Thesis (MEng)--Stellenbosch University, 2014. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Lateral-torsional buckling (LTB) is an important failure mode that needs to be taken into account during the design of steel beams. The fundamental equation for determining the elastic critical moment of a beam was derived with the assumption that the beam is subjected to a uniform bending moment distribution. Loads on steel structures generate a great variety of bending moment distributions. The effect of the bending moment distribution is taken into account by a parameter known as the equivalent moment factor. The procedure outlined in the South African National Standard for limit-states design of hot-rolled steel work, SANS 10162-1:2011, for determining the equivalent moment factor was originally developed for a bending moment that is uniformly or linearly distributed, however it is currently used for all bending moment distributions. A Finite Element (FE) model was developed in this investigation for determining the equivalent moment factor. The numerical model included residual stresses and initial geometric imperfections commonly found in hot-rolled steel beams. To validate the assumptions made during the development of the FE model an in-depth experimental investigation was conducted on simply supported beams. Three different load configurations were considered in the experimental study in order to simulate various bending moment distributions. A comparison of the equivalent moment factor between the numerical results and the results obtained from various steel specifications, including SANS 10162-1:2011, was carried out in an attempt to quantify the positive and negative attributes of the various methods employed by steel design specifications. The experimental investigation concluded that the FE model is able to successfully represent a simply supported beam with realistic characteristics that include residual stresses and imperfections. The comparative study illustrated that for a bending moment distribution with a constant moment gradient, SANS 10162-1:2011 provides excellent results. However, for the other distributions considered in this investigation highly conservative results were obtained for the equivalent moment factor. The relevance of these findings were made clear by considering three design cases found in steel structures. The resistance moment of the beams in each of these cases was calculated according to each of the steel specifications. It was found that the use of a highly conservative procedure for determining the equivalent moment factor can lead to the uneconomical design of a structure. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Laterale-torsie knik is ’n belangrike falings modus wat in ag geneem moet word tydens die ontwerp van staal balke. Die fundamentele vergelyking vir die bepaling van die elastiese kritieke moment van ’n balk is afgelei met die aanname dat die balk onderworpe is aan ’n eenvormige buigmoment verdeling. Belastings op staalstrukture genereer ’n groot verskeidenheid van buigmoment verdelings. Die effek van hierdie buigmoment verdelings word in ag geneem deur ’n parameter wat bekend staan as die ekwivalente moment faktor. Die prosedure uiteengesit in die Suid-Afrikaanse Nasionale Standaard vir die ontwerp van warm-gewalste staalwerk, SANS 10162-1:2011, vir die bepaling van hierdie faktor is oorspronklik ontwikkel vir ’n buigmoment wat uniform of linieêr verdeel is oor die lengte van die balk, maar dit word tans gebruik vir alle buigmoment verdelings. ’n Eindige Element (FE) model is ontwikkel in hierdie ondersoek vir die bepaling van die ekwivalente moment faktor. Die numeriese model sluit die residuele spannings en aanvanklike geometriese imperfeksies wat in die algemeen teenwoordig is in warm-gewalste profiele in. Die aannames wat gemaak is tydens die ontwikkeling van die FE model is bevestig met ’n in diepte eksperimentele ondersoek oor die gedrag van eenvoudig opgelegde balke. Drie verskillende las konfigurasies is oorweeg in die eksperimentele studie om verskeie buigmoment verspreidings na te boots. ’n Vergelyking van die ekwivalente moment faktor tussen die numeriese resultate en die resultate verkry van verskeie staal spesifikasies, insluitend SANS 10162-1:2011, is uitgevoer in ’n poging om die positiewe en negatiewe eienskappe van die verskillende metodes wat gebruik word in verskillende staal ontwerp spesifikasies, te kwantifiseer. Die eksperimentele ondersoek het tot die gevolgtrekking gelei dat die FE model in staat is om ’n eenvoudige opgelegte balk te verteenwoordig, met realistiese eienskappe wat residuele spannings en imperfekies insluit. Die vergelykende studie toon dat SANS 10162-1:2011 uitstekende resultate bied vir ’n buigmoment verdeling met ’n konstante moment gradiënt. Dit was egter gevind dat vir ander verdelings wat in hierdie ondersoek oorweeg is, SANS 10162-1:2011 hoogs konserwatiewe resultate bied. Die toepaslikheid van hierdie bevindinge is duidelik gemaak deur drie ontwerp gevalle wat algemeen in staalstrukture gevind word te bestudeer. Die weerstandsmoment is in elk van die gevalle bereken volgens elke staal spesifikasies. Daar is gevind dat die gebruik van ’n hoogs konserwatiewe prosedure vir die bepaling van die ekwivalente moment faktor kan lei tot die ontwerp van ’n onekonomiese struktuur.
248

Influence of surface seal variables on bitumen bond strength properties

Lombard, Le Riche 12 1900 (has links)
Thesis (MScEng)--Stellenbosch University, 2014. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Surface seals are widely used in South Africa. There are a number of reasons which include affordability, versatility and durability. There are, however, in some cases problems with stone loss that can lead to a shortened lifespan of the pavement. The loss of aggregate chippings in surface seals poses a major problem in the seal pavement industry. This study aims to identify the influencing factors that lead to these adhesive failures as well as to find optimum combinations of binders and aggregates at various conditions. Various binders commonly used in South African surface seal construction will be tested using the Bitumen Bond Strength (BBS) test method. The binders used in the study include 80/100 penetration grade bitumen, elastomer modified bitumen, bitumen rubber, elastomer modified emulsion and cationic rapid setting emulsion. Aggregates used in the study include dolerite, granite and quartzite. The test samples were cured and tested at two temperatures, 15 °C and 35 °C. The samples were also cured for 2, 6 and 24 hours respectively. The study tackles a wide range of variables in order to obtain a good understanding of adhesion properties of surface seals used in South Africa. Tests were repeated at least once to ensure repeatability and in some cases up to four repeats were performed. The loading rate at which the tests were performed had a significant influence on the BBS results. This rate varied which complicated the process of comparing the results. It was therefore decided to unify the loading rates. The BBS results exposed the difference between hot applied binders and emulsions. The former having significant stronger adhesion properties. It was also confirmed by the results that temperature plays a key role in the BBS results due to the visco-elastic properties of bitumen. These influences will be discussed along with others such as aggregate types and curing times. The type of failure is also discussed. Failure can either be adhesive or cohesive, the former being a failure between the aggregate and the binder while the later refers to a failure in the binder itself. The results of other students will also be discussed and compared to the results of this study. These include results of predecessors that tested emulsions as well as results from tests done on fractured aggregate surfaces and precoated aggregates. This study showed very similar results as these from other students, except for tests done with emulsions. It was discovered that the method of curing of the emulsions must be adapted to ensure proper curing of the emulsions. It was found that aggregates did not influence the BBS properties to the same extent as temperature and binder application type. The BBS results of hot applied binders also did not significantly increase as the curing time increased, but the results of emulsions showed some increase. However, the emulsions needed more time to cure properly. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Oppervlak seëls word algemeen gebruik in Suid-Afrika. Daar is verskeie redes hiervoor waaronder bekostigbaarheid,veelsydigheid en duursaamheid. Daar is egter in sommige gevalle probleme met klipverlies wat kan lei tot n verkorte leeftyd. Hierdie klipverlies ontstaan as gevolg van verskeie redes of kombinasies daarvan. Die studie beoog om hierdie faktore wat die adhesie eienskappe beïnvloed te identifiseer sowel as om optimum kobinasies van bindmiddels en klipsoorte te bewerkstellig by verkeie kondisies. ‘n Verskeidenheid van bindmiddels wat algemeen in Suid-Afrika gebruik word, word in die studie getoets met die Bitumen Bond Sterkte (BBS) toets metode. Die bindmiddels wat in die studie gebruik word sluit 80/100 penetrasie graad bitumen, elastomeer gemodifiseerde bitumen, bitumen rubber, elastomeer gemodifiseerde emulsie en kationiese snel settende emulsie. Die klipsoorte wat vir die studie gebruikword is doleriet, graniet en kwartsiet. Hierdie gesteentes word algemeen in die praktyk gebruik. Die toets monsters word ook by twee temperature gekuur en getoets. Hierdie temperature is 15 °C en 35 °C. Die toets monsters word ook onderskeidelik vir 2, 6 en 24 uur gekuur. Die studie ondersoek 'n wye verskeidenheid van veranderlikes om sodoende 'n goeie begrip van adhesie eienskappe van die oppervlak seëls wat in Suid-Afrika gebruik word te verkry. Elke toets was ten minste een maal herhaal om herhaalbaarheid te verseker. Sommige toetse was tot 4 keer herhaal. Die belasting tempo van die toetse het ‘n beduidende uitwerking op die BBS resultate as gevolg van die visko-elastiese eienskappe van bitumen. Hierdie tempo het gewissel en dit moeilik gemaak om die resultate te vergelyk. Daarom was daar besluit om die tempo van die toetse te verander na ‘n gelykvormige tempo. Daar was ‘n duidelike verskil in BBS resultate van die warm toegepaste bindmiddels en die emulsies. Die warm bindmiddels het baie hoër BBS resultate gelwer. Dit was ook bevestig in die resultate dat temperatuur ‘n beduidende rol speel in die BBS. Hierdie invloede sal bespreek word tesame met ander, soos klipsoorte en kuring tye. Die tipe versaking word ook bespreek. Versaking kan plaasvind as gevolg van adhesie of cohesie, waar adhesie versaking 'n versaking is tussen die klip en die bindmiddel terwyl cohesie versaking verwys na 'n versaking in die bindmiddel self. Die uitslae van die ander studente sal ook bespreek word en vergelyking word met die resultate van hierdie studie. Dit sluit die resultate van voorgangers in wat emulsies getoets het sowel as die resultate van toetse wat gedoen is op gebreekte klipoppervlaktes en bitumen behandelde klippe. Hierdie studie het baie soortgelyke resultate getoon as dié van ander studente, behalwe vir die toetse wat gedoen was met emulsies. Daar is vasgestel dat die metode van kuring van die emulsies moet aangepas word om behoorlike kuring van die emulsies te verseker. Daar is ook gevind dat klipsoorte nie die BBS eienskappe in dieselfde mate as temperatuur en bindmiddel toepassingstipe beïnvloed het nie. Die BBS resultate van warm aangewende bindmiddels het ook nie aansienlik verhoog soos die kuringstyd toegeneem het nie, maar die resultate van emulsies het wel 'n toename getoon. Die emulsies het wel meer tyd nodig gehad om behoorlik te kuur.
249

Investigating the impact of site activities and conditions on concrete quality of in-situ and precast construction methods

Solomons, Wesley John 12 1900 (has links)
Thesis (MEng)--Stellenbosch University, 2014. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Construction of structural concrete frames may take place by using either cast in-situ or precast methods. With the cast in-situ method, these elements are constructed on the construction site as needed. Precast construction on the other hand is more resembles a line. The elements are constructed in a precast yard in a systematic fashion and once completed, they are taken to the construction site where they are to be erected. This study identifies the aspects and attributes which influence the quality of concrete during the construction phase of these two construction methods. The study is independent from the conceptual or design phase. Information regarding these aspects and attributes were obtained from literature and from contractors in industry through interviews and site visits. The literature review also focuses on quality management techniques and factors that influence quality in the construction environment. The information obtained from the site visits and literature was used to design a survey which was sent out to a number of respondents. A comparison between in-situ and precast construction was made based on the results of the survey. The synthesis of the research findings can be used by project teams to help them decide on the choice between in-situ and precast construction. It was found that precast construction is better for durability, and fitness for purpose is less complex for the in-situ solution. Recommendations for future studies are provided at the end of the document. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Konstruksie van beton struktuurrame kan plaasvind deur die gebruik van in-situ of voorafvervaardigde metodes. Met die in-situ metode, word hierdie elemente op die terrein gebou soos benodig. Tydens voorafvervaardigde konstruksie aan die ander kant is die konstruksie soortgelyk aan 'n produksielyn. Die elemente word gegiet in 'n voorafvervaardingsterrein in 'n sistematiese wyse, en sodra dit voltooi is, word dit na die konstruksie terrein geneem waar dit opgerig word. Hierdie studie identifiseer die aspekte en eienskappe wat 'n invloed op die kwaliteit van beton het tydens die konstruksiefase van hierdie twee konstruksie metodes. Die studie is onafhanklike van die konseptuele of ontwerp fases. Inligting rakende hierdie aspekte en eienskappe is verkry uit die literatuur en van kontrakteurs in die bedryf deur middel van onderhoude en besoeke. Die literatuur fokus ook op die gehalte, bestuurs-tegnieke en faktore van gehalte in die bou-omgewing. Die inligting is verkry deur ‘n vraelys wat aan 'n aantal respondente gestuur is. 'n Vergelyking tussen in-situ en voorafvervaardigde konstruksie is vervolgens gemaak op grond van die resultate van die opname. Die sintese van die bevindinge kan gebruik word deur projek spanne om hulle te help besluit oor die keuse tussen in-situ en voorafvervaardigde konstruksie. Die resultate dui daarop dat voorafvervaardigde konstruksie beter is vir duursaamheid, maar passing op terrein is minder kompleks vir die in-situ oplossing. Aanbevelings vir toekomstige ondersoeke word aan die einde van die studie gemaak.
250

A peridynamic model for sleeved hydraulic fracture

Van Der Merwe, Carel Wagener 12 1900 (has links)
Thesis (MEng)--Stellenbosch University, 2014. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Current numerical methods in the eld of hydraulic fracturing are based mainly on continuum methods, such as the Finite Element Method (FEM) and the Boundary Element Method (BEM). These methods are governed by Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM) criteria, which su er from the inherent aw of a non-physical stress representation at the fracture tip. In response to this, a non-local method is proposed, namely the peridynamic theory, to model sleeved hydraulic fracture. A 2D implicit quasi-static ordinary state based peridynamic formulation is implemented on various benchmark problems, to verify the ability to capture constitutive behaviour in a linear elastic solid, as well as, the quanti cation of adverse e ects on the accuracy of the displacement solution, due to the nature of the non-local theory. Benchmark tests consist of a plate in tension, where convergence to the classical displacement solution, non-uniform re nement and varying cell sizes are tested, as well as, a thick walled cylinder with internal pressure, where three di erent loading techniques are tested. The most accurate loading technique is applied to the sleeved fracture model, in order to simulate fracture initiation and propagation. This model is then veri ed and validated by using the Rummel & Winter hydraulic fracturing model and experimental results, respectively. Displacement error minimisation methods are implemented and as a result, the displacement solutions for a plate in tension converges to the analytical solution, while the thick walled cylinder solutions su er from inaccuracies due to an applied load on an irregularly discretized region. The fracture initiation test captures the fracture tip behaviour of the Rummel & Winter model and the fracture propagation test show good correlation with experimental results. This research shows that the peridynamic approach to sleeved hydraulic fracture can yield a realistic representation of fracture initiation and propagation, however, further research is needed in the area of a pressure load application on a solid using the peridynamic approach. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Huidige numeriese metodes in die veld van hidrouliese breking is hoofsaaklik gebaseer op kontinuum metodes, soos die Eindige Element Metode (EEM) en die Rand Element Metode (REM). Hierdie metodes word beheer deur Linie^ere Elastiese Breukmeganika (LEB) kriteria, wat ly aan die inherente gebrek van 'n nie- siese voorstelling van die spanning by die fraktuur punt. Om hierdie probleme aan te spreek, word 'n nie-lokale metode voorgestel, naamlik die peridinamiese teorie, om gehulsde hidrouliese breking te modelleer. 'n 2D implisiete kwasi-statiese ordin^ere toestand gebaseerde peridinamika formulering word ge mplimenteer op verskeie norm probleme, om te veri eer of dit oor die vermo e beskik om die konstitutiewe gedrag van 'n linie^ere elastiese soliede materiaal te modeleer, asook die kwanti sering van nadelige e ekte op die verplasings oplossing as gevolg van die natuur van die nie-lokale teorie. Normtoetse bestaan uit 'n plaat in trek spanning, waar konvergensie na die klassieke verplasings oplossing, nie-uniforme verfyning en vari^eerende sel groottes getoets word, asook 'n dikwandige silinder onder interne druk, waar drie verskillende belasting aanwendingstegnieke getoets word. Die mees akkurate belasting aanwendingstegniek word dan gebruik in die gehulsde hidrouliese breking model, om fraktuur aanvangs en uitbreiding na te boots. Die model word dan geveri- eer deur die Rummel & Winter hidrouliese breking model en eksperimentele resultate, onderskeidelik. Fout minimering metodes word toegepas en as 'n resultaat, konvergeer die verplasing oplossing vir die plaat na die analitiese oplossing, terwyl die oplossing van die dikwandige silinder onakuraathede toon as gevolg van 'n toegepaste belasting op 'n onre elmatig gediskretiseerde gebied. Die modellering van die fraktuur inisi ering by die fraktuur punt, stem goed ooreen met die Rummel en Winter voorspelling en die fraktuur uitbreiding stem goed ooreen met eksperimentele resultate. Hierdie navorsing toon dat die peridinamiese benadering tot gehulsde hidrouliese breking wel die fraktuur inisi ering en uitbreiding realisties kan modelleer, maar nog navorsing word wel benodig in die area waar 'n druk belasting op 'n peridinamiese soliede model toegepas word.

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