Hello,

here we have a portal frame, however, it isn't considered fixed as the prior one is due to the flexibility of the structure as a whole.  This frame has less HD rods holding it down and a much more flexible joint where the mullion meets the purlin due to the lack of heavy reinforcing; in this case the roof practically rests on top of the mullion with minor fixtures holding it down.  Due to it's flexibility, this system is generally used for medium size frames requiring minimal resistance to wind loads, etc.

Standard Fixed Portal Frame

In the diagram I'm displaying my interpretation of the standard 'fixed' portal frame as observed in the 2007 Construction and Structures 1 and the 2008 Construction and Structures 2 classes.  The diagram illustrates the standard of most factories built in Australia today as the 'pinned' portal frame is rarely used anymore due to the need for extra on-site labour and speed of assembly issues.  The fixed frame is also favored as it allows for larger open spaces between stanchions than the pinned; this is because the fixed frame relies on its rigidity and distribution of loads into the footing system, allowing for minimal cross-bracing, while the pinned frame allows flexing and thus requires cross-bracing to limit this movement, closing up the space between stanchions.

Contemporary Construction - Week 1, Site 1

Hello all,

For my first report I decided to visit the EastLink Operations Centre (ELOC), designed by Melbourne architects Roger Wood and Randal Marsh, 2007.  I found this building interesting due to it's contemporary appearance and modern construction methods.

Instead of using grounded organic building materials such as brick or wood, so common in our Victorian styled surroundings, the architects have used a steel frame with light-weight metal cladding, not dissimilar from the construction technology used for Frank Gehry's Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, which allows for it's dynamic contemporary form.  To further establish a contemporary feel, the EastLink building is laden in strong colors making the building  stand out, boldly contrasting with the landscape.

John Gardiner, managing director of Connect East (EastLink) says in reference to the design, "we are a company that wants to identify with our community", which suggests that the bold architectural statements we see at EastLink and throughout Melbourne - such as Federation Square or RMIT's Story Hall - are now synonymous with Melbourne Culture.

Metal such as is used in this building, is a very dynamic material for design as can be seen, however, it also serves many other purposes in relation to construction. Recycled metals are readily available, light weight, easy to transport and allow for fast installation due to off-site fabrication, all of which minimize the cost for the building owner and our environment.

Within the EastLink building we are able to observe many materials and construction methods that are quite possibly the future of commercial buildings; expect to see many more fine buildings such as this in the future.

Written by Jason Gec

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