Frequently asked questions about civil and structural engineering design
What is forensic engineering and when is it used?
Forensic engineering is an engineering investigation to find the actual cause of damage in a structure. It supports insurance claims, construction contract disputes, legal cases and correct repair planning. SPN's reports are signed by a licensed civil engineer (Council of Engineers Thailand licence) and can be used as supporting documents by the parties involved.
Should I choose an RC structure or a steel structure?
Choose RC for durability and low maintenance in general buildings and underground work, and steel for light weight, fast construction and wide clear spans. Steel suits factories and warehouses. SPN compares cost-effectiveness for your project before the system is chosen.
What is FEM analysis and why is it needed?
FEM (finite element method) analysis is computer-based structural analysis that is more accurate than hand calculation for complex parts. It is used for connection details, wind load and seismic analysis. SPN uses ANSYS and SAP2000.
Can an existing factory floor take new racking or machinery?
It can be confirmed by a load rating of the existing floor. SPN combines the original drawings with site measurements, such as GPR rebar scanning and concrete core tests, and compares the capacity with the actual rack leg or machine loads. If the floor does not pass, SPN designs a solution such as load-spreading plates, local foundations or strengthening, and a floor load test can confirm the result when existing data is not enough.
What does an engineer check before installing solar panels on an existing roof?
The engineer checks panel and rail weight plus wind pressure and uplift against the capacity of the purlins, rafters, trusses and fixings of the existing roof. If capacity is not enough, SPN designs local strengthening. The calculations are signed by a licensed engineer for permit submissions.
When is a flood study needed?
A flood study is needed when a project fills or changes a large area in a flood-prone zone, when fill and safe floor levels must be set by return period, or when an authority or an environmental report asks for drainage and detention analysis. SPN uses HEC-HMS and HEC-RAS.
Do temporary works need to be designed by an engineer?
Yes, when falsework supports tall or heavy slabs or beams, when cranes stand on soft ground or on a structural slab, and when a reaction frame or kentledge is built for load testing. These are common points of failure during construction. SPN checks shoring capacity, crane outrigger pads and soil bearing under the supports following BS 5975.
Are SPN's designs certified by a licensed engineer?
Yes. Every drawing and calculation is signed by an engineer holding a Council of Engineers Thailand licence in the relevant field, and can be submitted with building permit applications to local authorities. If you already have drawings and only need checking and signing, SPN also offers drawing certification by a senior civil engineer.
Where does SPN provide civil engineering design, and how is it priced?
SPN works nationwide across Thailand from its office in Bang Sao Thong, Samut Prakan, and most design work can be handled online. Site surveys are made regularly in Bangkok and its vicinity, the Eastern Seaboard (EEC), central and north-eastern Thailand. Design is priced per project by scope, size and complexity, with a free quotation within 24 hours.