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Buttressed core

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Structural system for high buildings

Buttressed core is a structural system for high buildings, consisting of a hexagonal core reinforced by three buttresses that form a Y shape.

Properties

The buttressed core supports itself both laterally and torsionally. It also eliminates the need for column transfers, and moves loads in a smooth path from the building's top into its foundations.

Origin

The buttressed core was invented by the Skidmore, Owings & Merrill engineer Bill Baker. It was first used in Tower Palace III in Seoul but its ability to support higher buildings than ever before was first demonstrated in Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

Uses

Advantages

The buttressed core structural system offers several advantages over traditional methods:

  • **Stability:** It provides excellent resistance to lateral forces, such as wind and seismic activities, enhancing the overall stability of the building.
  • **Efficiency:** The system allows for a more efficient use of materials, reducing the overall weight and cost of the structure.
  • **Flexibility:** It enables architects and engineers to design taller and more slender buildings without compromising on structural integrity.
  • **Aesthetics:** The Y-shaped design offers unique architectural possibilities, contributing to the visual appeal of skyscrapers.

Disadvantages

Despite its benefits, the buttressed core system also has some drawbacks:

  • **Complexity:** The design and construction process can be more complex and require specialized knowledge and skills.
  • **Cost:** Initial costs may be higher due to the need for precise engineering and high-quality materials.

See also

References

  1. Engineer Bill Baker Is the King of Superstable 150-Story Structures, Wired.com
  2. Higher and Higher: The Evolution of the Buttressed Core Archived 2020-07-29 at the Wayback Machine, Civil Engineering, October 2012
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