Steel Framed Building

Steel Framed Building

Project Description

This project involved the design, fabrication, and installation of a bespoke steel-framed extension to an existing building, with the aim of increasing operational space and improving overall functionality. The structure was engineered to integrate seamlessly with the current facility, ensuring both structural compatibility and continuity in use. Our BS EN1090 accreditation supported this structural manufacture with adherence to those standards throughout this project, ensuring our compliance and that of our customers with the Construction Products Regulation (CPR).

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Scope

The project involved the construction of a steel-framed building designed to seamlessly attach to an existing structure, with the primary objective of increasing the overall building footprint. The frame was fabricated from structural steel and finished with a rustproof coating to ensure long-term durability and resistance to environmental conditions.

To provide full protection against the elements, weatherproof cladding was installed and carefully sealed across the structure. Groundworks, including the preparation of foundations and base supports, were carried out by an external contractor prior to installation. The material and component certificates for the steel framed building project were in accordance to BS EN1090 + 9001 and the final product was delivered by the engineering team.

Process

The project began with the design phase, which included detailed structural calculations carried out in collaboration with an external contractor to ensure compliance with engineering standards and load requirements. Following design approval, the fabrication stage commenced, involving the cutting, assembly, and welding of all steel components. Once fabrication was complete, a full test fit was conducted within the workshop to verify alignment, tolerances, and overall structural integrity before site delivery.

All mild steel components were then coated with a protective paint system to prevent corrosion. The final stage involved transporting the structure to site, where installation was carried out, integrating the new build with the existing structure.

 Challenges

  • One of the primary challenges encountered during the project was the difficulty in lifting and positioning large steel beams. Limited access within the working area restricted the use of conventional lifting equipment such as forklifts and cranes, complicating the installation process.
  • An additional issue arose with the concrete padstones intended to support the columns, which were found to be uneven. This created alignment challenges and required corrective measures to ensure the structural frame could be installed accurately and safely.

Solutions

  • To overcome the lifting constraints, manual Genie lifts were hired. These lifts provided a practical solution due to their compact size and enhanced manoeuvrability, allowing the team to safely position heavy beams within the confined workspace.
  • To address the issue of the uneven padstones, the columns were carefully shimmed to achieve a level position before being securely bolted down. Once aligned, the bases were filled with concrete to ensure stability and proper load distribution.

THE PROJECT WAS COMPLETED ON SCHEDULE, WITHIN BUDGET, AND MET ALL QUALITY EXPECTATIONS