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INSTRUCTORS:
Alex Kladiva, P.E., S.E.
Josh Wright, P.E.
Garrick Pitts, P.E.
Ryne Fiorito, P.E., S.E.
Steve Babcock, PE
Purpose and Background
These presentations were recorded at the Electrical Transmission & Substation Structures Conference 2025.
Finer Points and Impacts of ASCE 113, 2nd Ed. Anchorage Changes (18 minutes)
This presentation provides an in-depth look at the anchorage-related updates introduced in the second edition of ASCE 113, the standard for substation structure design. It reviews changes in the treatment of anchor bolts, base plates, and connection detailing, emphasizing the influence of these revisions on design practice. The presenter highlights the rationale behind key modifications and how they harmonize with companion codes such as ASCE 10, ACI 318, and AISC 360. Real-world design examples illustrate how revised anchorage provisions affect both tension and shear transfer mechanisms. Attendees will gain insight into how the 2nd edition promotes consistency across steel and concrete foundation systems and ensures improved safety margins in modern substations.
Anchoring for Success Navigating the Inconsistent Landscape of Anchor Bolt Design (20 minutes)
Anchor bolt design in utility structures often involves navigating a maze of overlapping and sometimes conflicting requirements from multiple standards. This presentation explores the inconsistencies between common design references such as ASCE 113, ACI 318, AISC Design Guides, and manufacturer data, with examples showing how results can differ based on code assumptions. The speaker examines the consequences of these inconsistencies for foundation and base plate designs, focusing on issues like load combinations, edge distances, and concrete breakout strength. Attendees will also learn practical tips for reconciling divergent design outcomes and documenting engineering justification. The session encourages open discussion on harmonizing practices within firms and utilities to promote safety and uniformity.
Remediation for Deteriorated Foundations of Aged Substation Structures (21 minutes)
Over time, aging substation foundations can exhibit deterioration due to corrosion, cracking, spalling, or settlement, leading to reliability and safety concerns. This presentation presents a systematic approach to evaluating, prioritizing, and remediating deteriorated foundations without interrupting system operation. Case studies highlight assessment techniques such as non-destructive testing, petrographic analysis, and corrosion mapping. The speaker discusses both short-term stabilization and long-term rehabilitation strategies, including concrete repair, re-anchoring methods, and load redistribution solutions. Attendees will gain practical insights into decision-making criteria for repair versus replacement, helping utilities extend the life of critical infrastructure while managing costs.
Push Pier Underpinning of a Large Substation Transformer (14 minutes)
This case study showcases a real-world application of push pier underpinning to stabilize a large transformer foundation experiencing settlement. The presentation covers the evaluation process, including identifying symptoms of foundation movement and performing structural capacity checks. The engineering team’s approach to installing hydraulic push piers beneath an active transformer is described step by step, emphasizing coordination, safety, and load transfer verification. The speaker explains how underpinning provided a cost-effective alternative to full foundation replacement and minimized outage time. Attendees will leave with an understanding of how push pier systems can be effectively designed, installed, and monitored in heavy electrical equipment applications.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Describe the major anchorage-related changes in ASCE 113, 2nd Edition, and their implications for substation structure design.
- Explain the key sources of inconsistency among anchor bolt design codes and how to navigate them effectively in utility applications.
- Identify effective assessment and remediation techniques for deteriorated substation foundations.
- Discuss the process, benefits, and engineering considerations of using push pier underpinning to remediate transformer foundation settlement.
Assessment of Learning Outcomes
Students' achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed via a short post-test assessment (true-false, multiple choice, and/or fill in the blank questions).
Who Should Attend?
- Utility Engineers
- Structural Engineers
- Consulting Engineers
- Contractors
- Suppliers & Manufacturers
- Researchers & Educators
How to Earn Your CEUs/PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion
To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short post-test and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 1 year of purchasing the course.
How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?
1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]