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be conducted by probability sampling methods in Hong Kong and also certain econometric investigations into the demand for cereals as part of an F.A.O. Programme.
The research carried out by the Department of Architecture has been in the form of practical work, the most important being the preparation of a report for the Government on the feasibility of establishing a new industrial town for 250,000 people at Tsuen Wan. For this project a consultant group was formed including members of the Department of Civil Engineering.
In the Department of Civil Engineering some interesting experi- mental studies have been undertaken for the Government on a Nullah Model for Drainage of Kai Tak. A method of analysis of indeterminate structures by successive replacement was developed. Research has also been conducted on a simplified method of analysis of R.C. structures, on the effects of wind loads on tall buildings, and on Electric Field near Bundle Conductors. A long- term research project on composite instructures, consisting of steel I-beams and reinforced concrete slabs, was commenced in June 1958, and investigations are being made on: (1) the effective width of slab acting integrally with the I-beam as the compression flange, (2) the behaviour of double spiral shear connectors, and (3) the effect of relative movement between the steel I-beam and the slab on the stress distribution over the cross-section of the composite I-beam. The erection of a two-storey three-bay pre- stressed concrete frame has been progressing satisfactorily since the arrival of equipment from, England. Thirty of the members have already been cast and the frame is scheduled for testing in January 1959. Owing to the many advantages in the use of this system for building construction, a detailed programme of testing is being undertaken for this frame, to provide a greater insight into both the theoretical design methods required and the various economical methods of overcoming the practical difficulties in- volved. Experimental investigation on the effect of prestressing on steel frames has been carried out with test specimens of steel portals encased in concrete.
For meteorological research, see Chapter 15.