Engineering Failures and Their Lessons (Classic Reprint) - Hardcover

Edward Godfrey

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0484668838 ISBN 13: 9780484668835

Publisher: Forgotten Books, 2018

Synopsis

Learn from the mistakes that shaped reinforced concrete design and how to build safer, simpler structures.

This book surveys real-world failures and the lessons they reveal. It argues that much of the trouble comes from overreliance on theory that ignores common sense, and from designs that look good on paper but fail in practice. The author champions practical, straightforward approaches to design and testing, urging readers to focus on what works in the field rather than abstract formulas.

Readers will see how issues like stirrups, rodded columns, and flat slabs have led to wrecks, and why some well‑regarded theories do not hold up under real conditions. The discussion emphasizes the value of clear, testable methods and the importance of guarding against simple, avoidable failures in concrete and steel structures.

• Grounded explanations of concrete and steel failures and their causes
• Critiques of overcomplicated theory in favor of practical design guidance
• Insights from historical tests and real-world field problems
• Tips for safer, simpler construction and maintenance practices

Ideal for engineers, students, and history-minded readers who want a clear view of how failures occurred and what design choices prevent them.

Edition details

• Publisher: Forgotten Books
• Publication date: 2018
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0484668838
• ISBN 13: 9780484668835
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 294