Tall Building Systems and Concepts

The structural, mechanical and electrical systems of tall buildings are explored. The eight areas of focus are, structural systems, mechanical and service systems, electrical systems, vertical and horozontal transportation, cladding, partitions, walls and ceilings, foundation systems, and construction systems. Chapter two, on mechanical and service systems, is divided into two parts: heating, ventilating, and air conditioning and plumbing and fire protection. Building systems are not independent; they are interrelated beginning with the foundation systems and ending with the construction systems. Though engineers are specialized, each designer needs to know and appreciate the interdependence of tall building systems from the beginning of the project. Specific electrical building systems covered include: lighting, power distribution, fire alarms, elevators, escalators, and emergency power. This volume is one of five published by the ASCE on tall buildings. It was prepared by the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, a council sponsored by the following organizations: International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering, the ASCE the American Institute of Architects, the American Planning Association the International Federation for Housing and Planning, and the Int'l. Union of Architects. Extensive references, a bibliography and a glossary are included.