95% Design Review for Kabul University Men's Dorm Building 01

The review focused on the structural aspects of the building, with a particular emphasis on the underground tank and ramp design. The review identified several areas of concern, including the geometry of the ramp, which was found to be steeper than the maximum allowed by the International Building Code (IBC). The reviewer recommended that the ramp width be increased to accommodate a minimum clear width of 914mm between handrails, and that the number of occupants in the building be taken into account when determining the required ramp width. The review also noted that the plinth beam, which was intended to limit the braced length of the Line 1 columns, was not clearly shown on the typical footing section. The reviewer suggested that the plinth beam be provided on all grids, not just Grid 1, to ensure that differential settlement and frame action are properly addressed. In addition, the review highlighted the need for adequate finish type for the concrete ramp and platforms, as well as the importance of using potable quality water for mixing concrete. The reviewer also noted that the purpose of the plinth beam was not clearly stated, and that the pour strip was not shown on the drawings. The review also addressed the structural comments related to the underground tank, including the need for structural detail and calculations to be provided for the tank. The reviewer noted that the southerly, exterior tank cell wall applies an unbalanced lateral earth load to the interior 350mm tank wall, and that a partial height concrete wall extending to the northerly wall may be necessary to prevent the interior wall from being subjected to the full tank liquid load without bracing. The review also highlighted the need to consider the effects of buoyancy on the partial and finished structure, and to indicate the assumed seasonal high groundwater level. The reviewer noted that no water table was encountered to the depth of excavation, and that buoyancy was not required to be checked. However, the reviewer suggested that the tank empty condition be considered, and that calculation be provided to address the concern of upward pressure on the raft. Overall, the 95% Design Review identified several areas of concern that need to be addressed in the design of the Kabul University Men's Dorm building. The review provided recommendations for improving the design, including increasing the ramp width, providing adequate finish type for the concrete ramp and platforms, and addressing the structural details of the underground tank.