MIL-HDBK-1011/1
Section 1: GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1
Scope. This handbook on tropical engineering is intended for use
as a guide by designers and engineers who are responsible for the preparation
of plans and specifications for the construction of shore facilities in the
tropics.
This handbook complements the requirements of NAVFACENGCOM and DOD
handbooks and instructions to upgrade the quality of design and construction
and thereby extend the economic life of shore facilities in an environment
considered aggressive because of constant sun, rain, salt, and humidity;
frequent high winds, wind-blown sand, and salt spray; tsunamis, floods,
earthquakes, lightning storms, and floods; and other detrimental environmental
aspects as described herein.
1.2
References.
All cited references are listed in detail in the
Reference section at the back of this handbook.
1.3
Cancellation.
This military handbook cancels and supersedes NAVFAC
Design Manual (DM)-11.01, Tropical Engineering, of March 1980 in its entirety.
1.4
Tropical Region. The tropical region officially covers a broad
belt of the earth's surface bordering the equator from the Tropic of Capricorn
to the Tropic of Cancer. Arid and high elevation conditions are not discussed
in this handbook. It deals with those tropical regions that are hot and humid
and specifically deals with those environmental concerns that need special
attention in shore-based facilities. (In addition, numerous areas such as
Florida, the Gulf Coast, Okinawa, as well as other areas north of the Tropic
of Cancer, experience many of the same climatic conditions that are referred
to in this handbook.) (See Figure 1.)
1.5
Specific Classifications of Tropical Environmental Conditions
1.5.1
High Solar Radiation. Because of high sun angles the tropics
experience intense levels of solar radiation. The ultraviolet spectrum is
particularly harmful to many commonly used building products. High
ultraviolet exposure results in rapid deterioration of most non-metallic
roofing materials, paints, sealants, elastomeric coatings, and wood. High
solar radiation also causes building materials to develop high material
temperatures which require careful detailing of the joints in cladding and
structural systems.
1.5.2
High Humidity. Relative humidity in the range of 70 percent to 100
percent for most of the year creates ideal conditions for mold and mildew that
promote wood decay. It also accelerates rusting of various metals and
intensifies galvanic action in many metals. Many paints in high humidity
conditions do not perform well. In addition, high humidity conditions require
Previous Page
