The FPS Technical Committee convened on 21st May 2024, bringing together representatives from various companies in the industry to discuss ongoing projects, updates.
Key Points:
Clearing of Concrete Lines Research – Update provided on the collaborative research project with Swansea University, focusing on clearing of concrete lines. Specific areas of focus have been identified, and alternative funding options are being considered. The research, spanning six months, will proceed with donations supporting it and FPS overseeing the development of a numerical model to predict concrete behaviour. It was highlighted that the FPS’s involvement allows them to guide the research effectively. The presentation from Jim Blackwell will be circulated among the members.
FPS Sustainability Charter – A recent webinar detailed the scope 1, 2, and 3 reporting process, and is now available on the FPS website. An FPS plugin for the EFFC Carbon Calculator is in development to standardise project summaries.
Working Platforms and National Annex Review – Further discussions on working platforms are needed to coordinate projects with other committees. Expressions of interest are invited from FPS members willing to assist with the national annex review.
Cage Workability Working Group – Paul Wiltcher has agreed to lead the Cage Workability Working Group, with Jon Ball volunteering to join. Volunteers are needed to review existing guidance and identify any gaps. Members interested in joining are encouraged to contact Ciaran or Jon Ball.
Eurocode 7 – B526 Update- Jon Ball will attend the next B526 meeting to commence the review of the national annex for Eurocode 7. Volunteers will be sought to contribute to various chapters of the review.
Digital Working Group – The Digital Working Group is finalising its current document and considering potential projects. Additional volunteers are needed.
Technical Guidance and Position Papers – Jon Ball is currently reviewing the FPS technical guidance documents available on the website.
Upcoming Conferences
- FPS members were informed of several upcoming conferences, including:
- 28th European Young Geotechnical Engineers Conference, 25th-29th June 2024 in North Macedonia
- XVIII European Conference on Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering, 26th-30th August 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal
- 4th European Regional Conference of IAEG, 8th-12th August 2024 in Dubrovnik, Croatia
- EFFC DFI Conference (Geotechnics Reimagined), May 2025 in Bruges, with a call for abstracts by 14th June 2024
- EFFC Foundation Reuse and Decarbonisation Conference, 28th-30th May 2024 in Amsterdam
The next FPS Technical Committee meetings are scheduled for 4th September 2024 (hybrid) and 6th November 2024 at De Morgan House, London. For further details, members are encouraged to visit the FPS website or contact the FPS Secretariat.