PRECAST CONCRETE WALL PANELS

Precast wall panels, particularly architectural precast panels, enjoy widespread popularity because of their construction efficiency and esthetic possibilities through the use of aggregates, veneer facing materials, varying shapes, size and texture. The comprehensive report prepared by ACI Committee 533, Precast Panels, focuses on precast concrete wall panels that are produced in established precasting plants, although site precasting is an alternative fabrication method. The ACI 533R-93 should be used together wit ACI 318 "building Code Requirements for Reinforced Concrete", which may be legally binding. The guide covers both load-bearing and non-load-bearing panels. These can be fabricated of either normal weight or lightweight concrete, and may be solid, insulated, ribbed, hollow core, or sculptured. Any of panels can be reinforced with deformed bars, or welded wire fabric, or prestressing tendons.