ABSTRACT
This paper presents a simplified hand calculation procedure and a finite element model to determine the load capacity of columns with various cuts in them to facilitate building collapse during an implosion or mechanical demolition. Minimal research has been conducted on how to analyse weakened columns, thus there are safety risks when structures are weakened prior to demolition. If structures are weakened too much they may collapse prematurely killing workers, if not weakened enough they may not collapse when the demolition team requires them to. This paper compares theoretical results to test results obtained from full-scale tests conducted by Jet Demolition. The pre-cuts that were applied to the columns were a triangular window, double window and circular window cut.
