Shipping Containers as Structural Systems.
Abstract
This report investigated the feasibility of (1) using shipping containers (MILVAN) as structural elements in the construction of theater of operations (T/O) facilities, and (2) using dedicated containers in the T/O for the dual purpose of logistics and shelter. Mathematical structural modeling via finite element analysis, laboratory tests, and field tests were used to validate the concept of using shipping containers as structural elements in the construction of T/O facilities. The most effective configuration was an 80-ft (24-m) box beam configuration formed by joining four MILVANs end to end. Used as a roof system, these box beams and the facilities constructed from them meet wind and snow design loads encountered at any location in the world. For a typical logistic port base study exercise, facilities constructed from shipping containers showed an acutal savings of $2.3 million and 1.5 battalion months of engineering effort over stell-framed Army Facilities Component System (AFCS) facilities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA042179
Entities
People
- E. L. Mcdowell
Organizations
- Construction Engineering Research Laboratory