Author: Dhileepan

  • Enhancing Solar Chimney Design for New Market S1 Building

    Enhancing Solar Chimney Design for New Market S1 Building

    In the recent New Market S1 building project, TEK1 participated in various design review meetings, provided numerous markups, and involved in finalizing the design. This project involved 11 flats in one of the blocks, each featuring a solar chimney on the backside of the building.

    Amendment 1: Addressing Structural Frame Issues

    Initially, the structural frame for the solar chimney was composed of two PFCs on each side running between level-1 slab & the roof. One PFC was fixed to the masonry wall with chemical anchors at regular intervals, while the other was anchored to the sides of the slabs at two different levels. However, we identified a 195mm gap between the steel PFC and the slab due to varying opening sizes for the chimney in the level-1 and level-2 slabs in the architectural layout. With this gap, it was not possible to anchor the PFC to the slab.

    Through detailed markups and discussions, TEK1 and the structural team agreed to amend the steel frame. UB members were introduced between level-1 and level-2, providing a wider support anchored on top of the level-1 slab. The PFC members were shortened to run between level-2 and the roof, with the PFC and UB connected by splice plates bolted at the top and bottom flanges. This solution effectively addressed the support issue and ensured structural integrity.

    Amendment 2: Refining the Top Frame of the Solar Chimney

    At the top of the solar chimney, the initial structural drawings provided rudimentary details. With 11 solar chimneys of varying heights and only one section view in the architectural drawings, TEK1 proposed several sketches with different options to achieve the required heights. After receiving finalization from the architect, we collaborated with the structural engineer to discuss supporting the top frame to the rafters. Stubs were introduced at the top of the rafter to secure the design.

    Ensuring Smooth Project Flow

    TEK1 ensured that these discussions and iterative markups did not disrupt the project’s workflow. While the solar chimneys were under design review, we focused on detailing other areas and supplied drawings in stages. This approach maintained the project’s momentum and avoided delays.

    If you’re interested in having TEK1 manage your project, please send a quote request to our principal, Koshy, at [email protected], and specify that you want Dhileepan to manage your project. We look forward to bringing our expertise to your next venture.

  • Ascham College – Streamlining Plant Room Construction for Safety and Efficiency

    Ascham College – Streamlining Plant Room Construction for Safety and Efficiency

    In a recent project, we encountered a challenge with a plant room constructed from SHS members, featuring grating on both the floor and the roof.

    Problem 1:

    The original structural drawings specified vertical splice plates bolted together. However, these splice plates would protrude through the floor & roof gratings, creating a potential trip hazard.

    Upon identifying this issue, we notified the structural engineer, who then changed the bolted connections to site-welded connections. While this solution addressed the trip hazard, it introduced a new problem: site welding approximately 40 splices would be both costly and time-consuming.

    When this issue was discussed with the fabricator, they proposed shop welding the SHS frames into just two large assemblies for the entire plant room which they had the capacity to transport as large units. This approach significantly reduced the number of site welds required.

    Problem 2:

    However, another challenge arose: these large assemblies were to be galvanised and were too big for the galvanising bath. We consulted with the fabricator regarding the maximum size of the galvanising bath and suggested subsequently splitting the plant room assemblies accordingly. This adjustment reduced the number of site welds to around 20, making the process more efficient.

    Two primary problems were identified and solved:

    1. The bolted splice causing a trip hazard: Transitioning to welded connections resolved this safety concern.
    2. Assemblies larger than the galvanising bath: Adjusting the assembly size to fit the galvanising bath ensured the integrity of the galvanising process.

    By identifying and rectifying these issues at the planning stage, we saved significant time and money.

    If you’re interested in having me (Dhileepan) manage your project, please send a quote request to our principal at [email protected] and mention that you want Dhileepan to manage your project.

  • Change in Structural Design: Adapting to Highway Sign Board Challenges

    Change in Structural Design: Adapting to Highway Sign Board Challenges

    A recent project involving the installation of a static sign board on a highway required a significant change in structural design. The task involved detailing steel frames for supporting different sized sign board. However, a particular challenge arose when one of the static sign boards exceeded the maximum size allowable for its designated steel frame type.

    INITIAL DESIGN

    We promptly raised a query regarding this discrepancy with the structural engineer. The project was subsequently put on hold to address this critical issue.

    The structural engineering team responded by revising the original frame design and also the sign board’s size. This adaptive approach ensured that the structural integrity and safety of the sign board were not compromised. The revised frame design was then implemented, allowing the project to proceed smoothly.

    NEW DESIGN
  • Slab Infill – 275, Kent Street

    Slab Infill – 275, Kent Street

    The stairwell at 275 Kent Street had been demolished, leaving open slab areas that needed to be closed. Our task was to support these closures with meticulously detailed steel beams. Following a comprehensive site survey, we supplied steel beams tailored to different levels.

    Initially, the project scope included orders for only three levels. However, after completing these, four additional levels were incorporated to fully close the openings.

  • East Wing Refurbishment – Parliament House

    East Wing Refurbishment – Parliament House

    A small lantern has been added to the east wing of the parliament house. Despite its modest size, we take great pride in having contributed to such a prestigious project.

    The assembly consists of a single frame with welded columns, positioned atop existing beams. Prior to project commencement, TEK1 provided a detailed sketch outlining the necessary site measurements. With this, we were able to guidance the erection of the lantern for the parliament house accurately and seamlessly.

  • Ballina High School

    Ballina High School

    A new outdoor basket ball court has been added adjacent to the existing building in the Ballina High School. The roof design is similar to a warehouse.

    Ballania School | NSW

    A new outdoor basket ball court has been added adjacent to the existing building in the Ballina High School 57, Cherry Street, Balliana, NSW 2478

    (more…)
    Structural Steel Framing

    Ballania School | NSW

    A new outdoor basket ball court has been added adjacent to the existing building in the Ballina High School 57, Cherry Street, Balliana, NSW 2478

    (more…)
Trimble Connect Model
Structural Steel Framing

Ballania School | NSW

A new outdoor basket ball court has been added adjacent to the existing building in the Ballina High School 57, Cherry Street, Balliana, NSW 2478

(more…)
  • O & M Shed – Wunghnu Solar Farm

    O & M Shed – Wunghnu Solar Farm

    Our latest project entails a straightforward shed design featuring standard steel frames with purlins and girts encircling the structure.

    While our standard practice involves providing steel drawings and reports exclusively, this project warranted a more comprehensive approach. In addition to the customary steel documentation, we supplied detailed erection drawings and material reports for various components, including wall cladding, roof cladding, door flashing, barge flashing, ridge flashing, gutters, and downpipes.

    (more…)
  • Streamlining Weld Reporting: Tek1’s Solution

    Streamlining Weld Reporting: Tek1’s Solution

    At Tek1, we prioritize meeting our clients’ diverse needs with innovative solutions. Recently, a client requested a comprehensive weld report detailing weld type, size, length, contour, and whether it was site or shop welded. Additionally, they required each weld to be numbered and included in the report.

    To fulfill this request, Tek1 developed a tailored solution in-house. We seamlessly integrated weld numbering into our assembly drawings, allowing for easy identification of each weld.

    The process begins during the modeling stage, where our modelers define weld attributes such as size and type. These specifications are meticulously controlled within components and individual welds.

    Once the modeling stage is complete, all welds are selected and assigned unique numbers. Leveraging this data, we generate a customized weld report that includes vital details such as weld number, assembly location, and the parts being welded.

    Through this streamlined approach, Tek1 ensures accurate and comprehensive weld documentation, empowering our clients with the information they need for successful project execution.

    A sample report is as follows:

  • Proactive Solutions Save Time and Money at Surry Hills Village

    Proactive Solutions Save Time and Money at Surry Hills Village

    Tek1’s proactive approach played a pivotal role in saving time and money on site by effectively addressing challenges before they escalated. When detailing a stair in an already constructed building at Surry Hills Village, Tek1 requested site measurements and images of the existing structures. Analysing the received site images, Tek1 identified potential clashes, such as the extension of an existing beam conflicting with a new column and the roof of a nearby block encroaching on the new stair’s landing.

    With this foresight, Tek1 proposed the removal of the conflicting portions, mitigating potential disruptions to the workflow. By identifying and resolving these clashes early on, Tek1 ensured a smoother construction process, preventing costly delays and rework. This proactive approach not only saved valuable time but also optimized resources, demonstrating Tek1’s commitment to delivering efficient and cost-effective solutions to its clients.