ASSIGNMENT NO.

1 STEEL

1. What is meant by ASD and LRFD? Compare and contrast their disadvantages and
advantages.

ASD (Allowable Stress Design) and LRFD (Load and Resistance Factor Design) are two
methodologies used in the design of structural elements to ensure safety and functionality under
various loads.

**ASD** is a traditional approach where structural members are designed so that elastically
computed stresses under nominal loads do not exceed specified allowable stresses. It's based
on experience and judgment, using safety factors to account for uncertainties¹.

**LRFD**, on the other hand, is a more modern approach that uses factors to adjust both the
load and resistance to ensure that no limit state is reached under ultimate loading conditions. It
aims for a statistically consistent structural reliability by considering the probability of different
load effects².

**Advantages of ASD:**
- Simplicity: Easier to understand and apply, especially for those with extensive experience.
- Historical precedent: Has been used for a long time, with a lot of existing structures designed
using this method.

**Disadvantages of ASD:**
- Subjectivity: Safety factors are based on experience, which can vary widely.
- Potential for over-design: May lead to conservative designs, using more material than
necessary.

**Advantages of LRFD:**
- Consistency: Provides uniform levels of reliability regardless of the type of load.
- Efficiency: Often results in more material-efficient designs compared to ASD.

**Disadvantages of LRFD:**
- Complexity: Can be more complex to apply due to the additional factors and load
combinations.
- Learning curve: Requires a deeper understanding of statistics and probability.

In summary, ASD is simpler but more subjective and potentially less efficient, while LRFD is
more complex but provides consistent, optimized designs³.

2. What is the importance of NATIONAL STRUCTURAL CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES?

The National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP) is crucial for several reasons:

1. **Safety and Welfare**: It ensures the safety and welfare of the public by providing a
framework of minimum standards for the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings
and structures¹.

2. **Uniformity**: The NSCP aims to standardize building practices across the country, which is
essential for maintaining consistent quality and safety standards¹.

3. **Resilience**: Given the Philippines' susceptibility to natural disasters like earthquakes and
typhoons, the NSCP includes provisions to make buildings more resilient to such events³.

4. **Environmental Management**: It supports sound environmental management and control,

which is increasingly important in the face of climate change and urbanization¹.

5. **Economic Development**: By providing clear guidelines for construction, the NSCP

facilitates economic development, ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with growth³.

6. **Legal Compliance**: Adherence to the NSCP is a legal requirement, and failure to comply
can result in penalties. It's a critical part of the regulatory landscape for construction and
engineering in the Philippines.

3. Enumerate and discuss the following:

a. Structural Design Drawings and Specifications
b. Shop Drawings
c. And Erection Drawings

**a. Structural Design Drawings and Specifications:**

These are comprehensive documents that detail the design of a building or structure. They
include precise measurements, material specifications, and construction details to ensure the
structure is built correctly and safely¹²³.

- **Advantages**: Provide clear guidance for construction, ensure safety and compliance with
codes.
- **Disadvantages**: Can be complex and require significant time to develop.

**b. Shop Drawings:**

Shop drawings are detailed plans created by contractors and suppliers that show exactly how
prefabricated components will be manufactured and installed⁵⁶⁷.

- **Advantages**: Essential for the accurate fabrication of components, help in visualizing the
assembly.
- **Disadvantages**: Require careful coordination with design drawings to avoid discrepancies.

**c. Erection Drawings:**

Erection drawings guide the construction team on how to assemble the prefabricated
components on-site. They include detailed dimensions and instructions for the correct
installation of structural elements.

- **Advantages**: Crucial for the correct assembly of structures, provide step-by-step guidance.
- **Disadvantages**: Any errors can lead to significant issues during construction.

4. In design, certain criteria must be established to evaluate whether or not an optimum has
been achieved. Thus, list at least six (6) typical criteria to be considered.

When evaluating whether an optimum has been achieved in design, the following six criteria are
typically considered:

1. **Relevance**: Does the design align with the needs and goals of the intended users and
stakeholders? It should be pertinent to the context in which it will be used¹.

2. **Effectiveness**: How well does the design achieve its intended purpose? The design should
meet its objectives efficiently and effectively¹.

3. **Efficiency**: Does the design make good use of resources? This includes considering time,
cost, and materials in achieving the design goals¹.

4. **Sustainability**: Is the design environmentally friendly and sustainable over the long term?
It should minimize negative impacts on the environment¹.

5. **Usability**: How easy is it for users to interact with the design? The design should be
user-friendly and intuitive³.

6. **Aesthetics**: Does the design have visual appeal? While subjective, the aesthetic value can
influence user acceptance and satisfaction⁴.