Featuring The

DOUBLE-TEE
FLEXIBLE CONNECTION

DTFC

By Northford Structural Connections
(U.S. PATENT NO. US8800232)

A patented solution to failed double tee shear connections in precast parking structures. This post-installed, fatigue-resistant connection addresses joint failures from seismic shear and vehicular loading, preventing corrosion and structural deterioration.

Proven Results
Fatigue Resistant
10+ Years In Use
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Featuring The

DOUBLE-TEE CONNECTION

DTC Pro

By Northford Structural Connections
(U.S. PATENT NO. US8468766 B1)

The DTC Pro replaces the standard slug or erection bar in precast double tee systems, designed to work with all modern connection embedments. It increases out-of-plane connection strength by 100%, providing superior resistance to cyclical fatigue, shear failures, and flange deterioration in parking structures.

Easily Installed
New & Existing Structures
Fatigue Resistant

Corrosion Resistant

Typical Precast Parking Structure Failures

  • Leaking joints and concrete spalls from cyclical traffic stress
  • Weld fatigue fractures leading to shear connection weakness
  • Flange cracking and delamination due to restrained thermal expansion and contraction
  • Progressive load redistribution caused by severed or deteriorated tee-to-tee connections

Our Solutions

The DTFC system reconnects the double tees while still allowing for necessary movement and expansion, restoring the intended behavior and structural integrity of the precast parking structure—all without requiring a garage closure or disrupting operations.

FAQ's

Yes, the DTFC connection was originally developed for the replacement of connections in existing precast parking garages and structures. Its inherent flexibility transverse to the joint allows all connections between shear walls to be abandoned and replaced without fear of overloading the connections during deck contraction in winter months, ensuring safe and efficient rehabilitation of aging parking facilities.

The DTFC connection has successfully been in production and use for over ten years in precast parking garage repair and rehabilitation projects, demonstrating reliable performance against fatigue, seismic loads, and long-term structural demands.

The DTFC connection is installed with simple, common post-installed anchors and techniques, making it straightforward for retrofit applications. The design includes a small erection bolt to hold the connection in place while post-installed anchors are secured, facilitating efficient construction, reducing installation time, and easing worker fatigue in parking structure rehabilitation projects.

In general, any anchor suitable for seismic loading can be used with the DTFC in precast parking garage applications. However, specific anchors from certain manufacturers provide higher design values, enabling greater seismic shear load capacity and enhanced performance in structural rehabilitation.

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