Wood Roof Trusses: Analyzing Collapse
Sal Ancona reviews video from a 2018 North Las Vegas (NV) fire and collapse and examines some lessons from the incident.
Salvatore Ancona
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The World Trade Center Construction and Collapse, Part 4
There's no short answer to why the WTC collapsed, besides the initiating factor of the attack itself. Sal Ancona examines the factors involved.
The World Trade Center Construction and Collapse, Part 3
Part three in this series looks at the WTC floor systems and hat truss and their impacts during the 9/11 attack and collapse.
The World Trade Center Construction and Collapse, Part 2
In part two of this series on the World Trade Center, Salvatore Ancona examines some building features that would contribute to its collapse.
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Limited Ventilation/Egress Buildings
These buildings, where the original design elements have either been covered up or built over, pose real danger to firefighters.
The World Trade Center Construction and Collapse, Part 1
In part one of this multi-part series, Salvatore Ancona looks back at the construction methods used in the World Trade Center.
Sticks and Stones May…Collapse!
Concrete and wood floor systems are not new, but are again becoming popular. Sal Ancona on what firefighters need to look for.
How They Fail: Gusset Plates
Sal Ancona examines the behavior of gusset plates during a recent fire and the lessons learned they provide about structural integrity.
Combustible Construction: Podium Wood-Frame Private Dwellings
Salvatore Ancona reviews issues firefighters may encounter when dealing with fires in podium wood-frame private dwellings.
Veneer vs. Façade: What’s the Difference?
Sal Ancona explores the distinction between these building features and what they might mean for firefighters.
Attic vs. Cockloft: What’s the Difference?
Sal Ancona looks at the differences between these aspects of building construction and what firefighters must consider in terms of tactics.
Beams and Girders: How They Fail
Sal Ancona reviews some factors that can contribute to girder and beam failure in structures and what firefighters must look out for.