Cast

In commercial construction in Australia, the term "cast" typically refers to the process of forming concrete elements by pouring liquid concrete into molds or formwork, where it hardens and gains strength. This process is integral to creating structural components such as slabs, beams, columns, and walls.

Relevant Australian Standards

1. AS 3600: Concrete Structures: This standard provides the requirements for the design and construction of concrete structures. It covers aspects such as materials, design, detailing, and construction practices.

2. AS 1379: Specification and Supply of Concrete: This standard specifies the requirements for the supply of concrete, including its production, properties, and delivery.

3. AS 3610: Formwork for Concrete: This standard outlines the requirements for the design, fabrication, erection, and stripping of formwork used in concrete construction.

4. AS 2870: Residential Slabs and Footings: While primarily focused on residential construction, this standard also provides guidelines that can be relevant to commercial projects, particularly for slab and footing design.

Building Code of Australia (BCA) Requirements

The Building Code of Australia (BCA), which is part of the National Construction Code (NCC), sets out the minimum requirements for the design and construction of buildings in Australia to ensure safety, health, amenity, and sustainability. For cast concrete elements in commercial construction, the BCA references several Australian Standards and includes specific requirements such as:

1. Structural Adequacy: Ensuring that concrete elements are designed and constructed to withstand the loads and forces they will be subjected to during their lifespan.

2. Fire Resistance: Concrete elements must meet fire resistance levels (FRLs) as specified in the BCA, which includes requirements for the thickness of concrete cover over reinforcement to protect it from fire.

3. Durability: Concrete must be designed and constructed to be durable in the specific environmental conditions it will be exposed to, as outlined in AS 3600.

4. Quality Control: The BCA emphasizes the importance of quality control in the production and placement of concrete to ensure that it meets the specified performance criteria.

Key Considerations in Casting Concrete

• Mix Design: The concrete mix must be designed to achieve the required strength, workability, and durability.
• Formwork: Proper design and construction of formwork are crucial to achieving the desired shape and surface finish of the concrete element.
• Reinforcement: Placement of reinforcement must comply with the design specifications to ensure structural integrity.
• Curing: Adequate curing of concrete is essential to achieve the desired strength and durability.