What is the difference between cast-in-place and precast deck systems?

Cast-in-place deck systems are constructed on-site, where the deck formwork is installed and the deck is cast in a single operation. The concrete is poured directly onto the formwork and then leveled and finished to the desired final surface.

On the other hand, precast deck systems are manufactured off-site, where concrete panels or slabs are precast and then transported to the construction site for installation. The precast panels are typically supported by girders or other structural elements and connected together using some form of joint system.

The main difference between these two methods is the location where the concrete is cast – on-site for cast-in-place and off-site for precast. Cast-in-place systems are better suited for irregular or complex shapes and can be more cost-effective for small to medium-sized projects. Precast systems, on the other hand, are more efficient for larger projects with repetitive shapes and can provide faster construction times since the panels are already pre-fabricated.

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