Need a Structural Investigation?
Our Tools of the Trade offer a one-source comprehensive study! |
| So, you have a structural problem — you’re concerned about the “who” and the “how” of finding the answers you need to resolve it. CTLGroup has a solid reputation for being a “One-Stop Shop” because of its multidisciplinary makeup. We invite you to visit our Turning 21 website story for an outline of our firm’s unique history. Links to pages for additional information on specific services are provided. To broaden your perspective of the breadth of our capabilities and experience, we offer here a sampling of the many ways we meet the needs of our clients and bring exemplary resolution using our Tools of the Trade. |
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Initial Steps — Site Investigation and Non-Destructive Testing
A site inspection by our engineering professionals includes identifying the usual and the unusual, documenting what can be seen and measured, and gathering samples. The result: a solid starting point. Additionally, CTLGroup’s extensive and relatively unique non-destructive evaluation (NDE) capabilities “look inside” to obtain detailed information on what can’t be seen. Our NDE team has developed innovative ways of utilizing a variety of these methods, developing customized NDT plans tailored to the specific needs of each project. A judicious mix of visual inspection, minimally intrusive material sampling, and NDE typically is not only economical but results in a clearer definition of the problem.  |
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Going Deeper — Materials Testing and Characterization
The “L” in CTLGroup stands for laboratories and our firm has the unique facilities and trained staff to conduct materials analysis, testing and qualification right here in-house. The kinds of materials we investigate include virtually all structural systems and construction materials. We use the most advanced techniques and equipment to conduct characterization of concrete, mortar, and stucco, as well as raw and processed materials. Our testing capabilities include concrete petrography, microscopical/metallurgical analysis, spectroscopy, calorimetry, X-ray diffraction analysis, chemical analysis of both organic/inorganic materials, and numerous physical tests. Physical testing can range from standard ASTM tests of small material samples all the way up to full scale mock-ups of structural components or the complete structure. Our technical testing staff, equipment and laboratories are fully accredited and certified. |
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Looking Further — Document Review and Structural Analyses
In every project, there is the need for in-depth review of documentation of everything from structural drawings and materials specifications to building maintenance records. Here our advanced engineering specialists weigh all the factors. They view the problem in terms of pure engineering behavior, often taking a back-to-basics approach to the hypotheses. Their studies are all encompassing. Document review combined with assessment of results from the field investigation and laboratory testing often lead to a need for structural analyses. Our tools of the trade in this instance range from hand calculations to sophisticated computer modeling or using software programs that can reconstruct the progression of deterioration or collapse. This ability to recreate the “before,” evaluate the “now,” and predict the future of a troubled structure is invaluable. |
| Validating Methods — Applicable Code Review
Applicable code review is a vital part of any structural evaluation: it validates structural designs and construction methods. Also, recent relevant modifications that impact a specific project may be uncovered. Our engineers often find the basic research or field work that prompted development of a code or standard was done right here during CTLGroup’s earlier years. Our technical staff take an active role on technical committees of the American Concrete Institute, ASTM International, the International Code Council, the Prestressed Concrete Institute, and other industry organizations. This work translates into direct benefits for clients and when needed, proves invaluable in resolution of disputes. With a keen sense of joining a rich heritage of improving methods and materials for the construction industry, our engineers regularly bring recent investigational experience to technical committees for consideration and/or implementation.
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We Expect the Unexpected.
As construction methods and materials technology evolve, new problems arise. Our engineers and scientists continually develop innovative, practical and cost-effective solutions to these challenges. Contact us to learn how we can help you tackle yours. |
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CTLGroup, a team of engineers and scientists, performs investigation, analysis, and specialized testing of new and existing structures and materials. Our expertise enables CTLGroup to develop the most comprehensive and effective solutions for your specific needs.
We are CTLGroup - engineering, consulting and specialized testing experts.
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Meet Some of Our Problem-Solver Professionals
C. P. Bok
 Twenty years’ experience at troubleshooting construction-related problems makes “C.P.” an invaluable team member in any structural investigation. When he addresses a problem, it’s with an assurance that his expertise with the tools of the trade and their best application will bring resolution. He has working knowledge of a broad spectrum of construction materials and techniques. If disputes are involved, C.P. is comfortable that his findings are supported through the data developed.
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Ann Caffero
 Adding an important piece of the puzzle to a structural evaluation sparks Ann's ongoing curiosity about construction materials and their behavior in a variety of environments. Her ability to conduct petrographic and microscopical examination of concrete, mortar, stucco, cast stone, terrazzo, flooring systems, raw materials, coatings, and other construction materials leads to accurate documentation and valuable information about condition, quality, composition, and potential performance. Using tools such as optical and scanning electron microscopes allows access to view the microstructure of construction materials that can hold clues as to the cause of failure.
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Hamid Lotfi
 Mention “nonlinear finite element analysis” and you’ve got Hamid’s attention. He’s developed a comprehensive knowledge base of how computer analysis and design of structures can approach construction problems and assist in resolving them. His previous years of teaching and research prompt his belief that his tools of the trade always can do more and do it better. He’s performed structural evaluation and failure analysis of reinforced and prestressed concrete structures including buildings, parking structures, bridges, and pipelines as well as fire engineering and heat transfer.
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Peter Kolf
 For 25 years, Peter has had the challenge and the opportunity to address structural issues including strengthening, rehabilitation, troubleshooting of construction-related problems, and durability enhancement. He’s also been involved in the construction phases of many new structures and repair projects. His active participation in the International Concrete Repair Institute gives him a unique perspective in design of repairs. |
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