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Structural engineering in Montería

Structural design, technical supervision and construction oversight on the banks of the Sinú.

Photo: Ray Donnelly / Unsplash

DDES provides structural design, independent design review, technical supervision and construction oversight (interventoría) for projects in Montería, Córdoba, under the NSR-10 (Colombia's seismic-resistant building code) and Law 1796 of 2016. Montería is in the intermediate seismic hazard zone, with Aa = 0.10 and Av = 0.20. Córdoba is one of the departments where DDES has worked, and Universidad de Córdoba is among its clients.

Seismic hazard
Intermediate
Aa / Av
0.10 / 0.20
Ae / Ad
0.07 / 0.04
Department
Córdoba

What does the NSR-10 require to build in Montería?

In reinforced concrete, the intermediate hazard zone no longer allows minimum dissipation (DMI): the structure is designed with moderate (DMO) or special (DES) energy dissipation capacity, with more reinforcement detailing requirements.

If the geotechnical study gives a type D profile, the Montería design spectrum for a residential or office building (occupancy group I) has a plateau of Sa = 0.40 g up to TC = 1.20 s, and TL = 4.80 s. With another soil or another use the values change: work them out with the design spectrum.

Which Av value should be used in Montería?

The NSR-10 gives two values. Table A.2.3-2, of capitals, gives Av = 0.15; Appendix A-4, of municipalities, gives Av = 0.20. With either one the zone is intermediate. The conservative option is to design with the larger one, and it is worth agreeing on it from the start with the independent reviewer and the curaduría.

What should you watch for in the soil?

Montería lies on the banks of the Sinú River. On lots near the river, the geotechnical study must look for soft clays and loose saturated sands, which push the profile to type E or F (A.2.4), and establish the water table to design the foundation.

When does Law 1796 require review and technical supervision in Montería?

The rule is the same throughout the country: when the lot allows more than 2,000 m² to be built, whatever the use, Law 1796 of 2016 requires an independent review of the structural designs before the permit and independent technical supervision during construction. Buildings in occupancy groups III and IV, such as schools and hospitals, require technical supervision whatever the area (A.1.3.9.1). Check your case with the Law 1796 assistant.

Frequently asked questions

What seismic hazard zone is Montería in?

In the intermediate seismic hazard zone, with Aa = 0.10 and Av = 0.20 according to Appendix A-4 of the NSR-10; table A.2.3-2, of capitals, gives Av = 0.15.

Does DDES work in Montería?

Yes. DDES works from its office in Barranquilla across Colombia and has done projects in Córdoba. For a proposal, send the architectural drawings and the location of the lot through the contact form or on WhatsApp.

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Our team works in Spanish. You can write to us in English and we will get back to you.

Photo: Julia Taubitz / Unsplash