Steel Detailing | Precast Detailing | Estimation

Category: Steel Detailing Blog

This page show cases some of the Steel Detailing projectgs completed in Melbourne, Sydney, WA, Brisbane Tek1 has completed

  • 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 koshy@tek1.com.au and mention that you want Dhileepan to manage your project.

  • Today I learned : Metal Grating

    What is Grating:

    Metal grating is a framework made from metal bars, plates or mesh arranged in a grid pattern. It allows for the passage of light, air and water while providing a strong platform.

    Types of Gratings:

    1. Bar Grating:

    Bar grating is composed of a series of parallel bars joined by perpendicular crossbars connected using methods like welding, riveting, or press-locking. Bar grating is the most common type of metal grating.

    2. Expanded Metal Grating:

    Expanded metal grating created by cutting and stretching a sheet of metal, resulting in a mesh with diamond-shaped openings. The resulting diamond-shaped pattern creates a slip-resistant surface.

    3. Wire Mesh Grating:

    Wire Mesh Grating is produced by using rows and columns of intersecting steel wires forming a grid-like pattern. This grating offers excellent load-bearing capacity due to its grid structure.

    4. Safety Grating:

    Safety grating features a serrated or perforated surface that is created by forming and punching the grating. The primary function of safety grating is to prevent slips and falls, especially in wet or oily conditions.


    Functionality of Metal Grating:

    1. Structural Support: Metal grating provides a strong and stable platform, capable of supporting significant weight. It’s commonly used in walkways, platforms, and mezzanines.
    2. Drainage and Ventilation: The open design of metal grating allows for efficient drainage and airflow, making it ideal for outdoor applications and environments requiring ventilation.
    3. Safety: Specific types of grating, such as safety grating, offer enhanced slip resistance, which is crucial in preventing accidents in wet or oily conditions.
    4. Weight Reduction: Metal grating offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it an excellent choice for applications where minimizing weight is essential.
    5. Corrosion Resistance: Grating made from materials like stainless steel or aluminum is highly resistant to corrosion, suitable for use in harsh environments.

    Applications of Metal Grating

    1. Industrial Flooring: Metal grating is extensively used in factories, warehouses, and plants, providing durable and safe flooring solutions.
    2. Drain Covers and Trench Grates: The open structure of metal grating makes it perfect for covering drains and trenches, allowing water to pass through while keeping debris out.
    3. Stair Treads: Metal grating is often used for stair treads, providing a non-slip surface that enhances safety in both indoor and outdoor staircases.
    4. Marine and Offshore Platforms: The durability and corrosion resistance of metal grating make it suitable for marine environments, where it is used on ships, offshore platforms, and docks.
    5. Public Infrastructure: Metal grating is used in various public infrastructure projects, including pedestrian bridges, park benches, and street furniture.

    Sources :

    What is Metal Grating? Types and Uses of Metal Gratings – What Is Piping

  • Today I learned : Eye Bolts

    Today I learned : Eye Bolts

    While conversing with the team leader about the construction of buildings, he mentioned the use of eye bolts for lifting purposes.

    What is an Eye Bolt:

    Eye bolt is a type of bolt that contains a loop or eye at one end and threaded shank at the other end with or without shoulder between them. They are designed to be used as secure connection point in lifting systems. The threaded shank is anchored into the metal surface and the eye or loop is attached with ropes, cables or other rigging.

    Types of Eye Bolts:

    1.Regular Eye bolts:

    Simplest type of eye bolt featuring a loop and a threaded shank without any additional features. They are suitable for vertical lifting applications with minimal to none angular forces.

    2.Shoulder Eye Bolts:

    Shoulder eye have a shoulder below the eye which provides extra support. This shoulder prevents the bolts from deformation or bending under angular loads.

    3.Swivel Eye Bolts:

    Swivel eye bolts feature a swivel mechanism between the eye and the threaded shank, allowing for rotation. This minimizes the chances of twisting and potential harm to lifting gear, rendering it well-suited for situations demanding adaptability.

    4.Lag Eye Bolts:

    Although called a lag eye bolt, it is essentially a screw with an eye and threaded shank. They are specifically designed for wood and is directly screwed into the wood. Its load capacity depends upon the wood’s type and condition.

    5.Machinery Eye Bolts:

    These bolts are specifically designed to use in machinery. These have a short shank length and large eye diameter. These bolts are often used as permanent lifting points in machinery.

    Applications of Eye Bolts:

    • Construction: Utilized in lifting materials, securing scaffolds, and suspending equipment and fixtures at construction locations.
    • Manufacturing: Engaged in lifting heavy machinery, positioning molds and dies, and managing raw materials within manufacturing plants.
    • Entertainment and Events: Deployed in stage rigging, lighting setups, and suspending props and scenery for concerts, theatrical productions, and events.
    • Marine: Crucial for anchoring cargo, rigging sails, and securing equipment on ships and offshore platforms.
    • Transportation: Utilized for securing cargo during transit.

    Sources :

    What Are The Different Types of Eye Bolts Used for Overhead Lifts? » Mazzella Companies

    Eye Bolts: The Essential Lifting Hardware (e-rigging.com)

  • Today I learned : Types of stairs in Australia

    Commonly used stairs in Australia:

    1. Straight Stairs:

    Straight stair consists of a single stair flight from lower to upper level. Straight stairs are the most common type of stair used in residential, commercial and industrial buildings not just in Australia but all over the world as it is easy to design and build.

    Stair Flight: It refers to a series of steps or a staircase that leads from one level or floor to another.

    2. L-Shaped stairs:

    L-Shaped stair consists of 2 stair flight which bends by 90° at the landing forming a L shape. It is used when staircase is needed to fit in the corner of the building. It is more visually appealing than straight stairs.

    Landing: A Stair landing is a level platform found at the top, bottom or in the middle of the stairs. An Intermediate landing acts as connecting platform between two stair flights.

    3. U-Shaped stairs:

    U-Shaped stair consists of 2 stair flights which bends by 180° at the landing forming a U shape. It is commonly used in multistory buildings.

    4. Winder Stairs:

    Winder Stair is similar to L-shaped stair and U-shaped stair, but here the landing is replaced by triangular or trapezoidal steps. It is commonly used in older homes or used as a secondary stair.

    5. Spiral Stairs:

    Spiral Stairs have a circular or helical shape with stair flight winding around a central pole or column. It is commonly used in space-constrained areas and as outdoor stairs. Spiral stairs can be challenging to use for people with mobility issues.

    6.Curved Stairs:

    Curved Stair’s stair flight follows a curved or circular path. Curved stairs are mostly used for its aesthetic appeal rather than functionality. Curved stairs can be challenging to use for people with mobility issues.

    7.Floating Stairs:

    Floating Stairs are also known as cantilever stairs. These stairs are anchored to the wall on one side while leaving out the other side support less, thus creating an illusion of floating. Floating stairs are used where minimalistic design is desired by the architect.



    Sources:

    Staircase Building Regulations: Our Comprehensive Guide (adara.co.uk)

    STAIRCASE TERMINOLOGY | An Architect Explains | ARCHITECTURE IDEAS

  • 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.

  • Staff Memo: What should my reference points be on my drawings (Detailing Tips)

    Staff Memo: What should my reference points be on my drawings (Detailing Tips)

    See the image below: there is a very serious potential issue here. Can you spot it?

    If you want to see a live link – please click here:

    What’s the problem?

    Our steel is tied into concrete.

    What’s wrong with steel on concrete?

    • The problem is that concrete is almost never poured correctly. It is never correct.
    • If your dimension and cut beams to concrete as a reference point, that means all your dimensions will be wrong – because the concrete is NEVER where you expect it to me.
    • What should you do?
    1. People agree to work to grid lines as reference points. You must dimension to gridlines – unless this is not applicable.
    2. Gridlines are typically not applicable when your steel ties into another structure (e.g. steel or to concrete). If it does, as in this case:
    3. Get a site measurement of where the existing structure is: and use that as a reference.
    4. But what you must never do is to dimension to an arbitrary structure without a site measurement.

    What happened in this case?

    • In this case there was something already installed up against the concrete. So we must dimension everything to what is actually installed.

    What happens if I dimension to concrete?

    • This means that your beams will not fit on site.
    • Which means you’ll get a very angry client: you will cost your client time and money.
    • This means your name and reputation will go down: clients will not want to deal with both you and our firm.

    Summary:

    What should I do?

    • Always make references to GRID LINES, not concrete or steel UNLESS you have a site measurement.
    • Never dimension to something upon which you do not know the location.
  • The Importance of Adhering to Standards in Steel Detailing: A Case Study

    The Importance of Adhering to Standards in Steel Detailing: A Case Study

    As a steel detailer working on projects for public access areas or residential buildings, you must be familiar with the essential standards to ensure safety and compliance.

    In this blog post, we’ll delve into the significance of following standards, with a specific focus on AS1428, AS1657, and BCA, through a real-world case study near the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

    The Case of the Handrails Near MCG

    During a recent visit to the vicinity of the Melbourne Cricket Ground, I observed that the installed stair handrail did not meet the compliance as specified in AS1428. The end handrail protrudes with sharp edges, causing safety issues for the public.

    Please refer to the snapshot below, taken at the entrance of JOHN CAIN Arena, Near MCG. Additionally, we have attached another snapshot that refers to the standard handrail which needs to be used in public areas.

    Conclusion

    Understanding the Standards: AS1428, AS1657, and BCA
    Before commencing any detailing project, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the relevant standards. AS1428 covers design for access and mobility, providing guidelines for elements such as handrails, ramps, and doorways to ensure accessibility for all individuals. AS1657 specifies requirements for fixed platforms, walkways, stairways, and ladders, emphasizing safety and structural integrity. Meanwhile, the Building Code of Australia (BCA) sets forth regulations governing construction, including provisions for structural adequacy and fire safety.

  • 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.