The project required precise engineering and tailored fabrication to address tight spatial constraints and hard to reach areas. New installations were designed to work around the existing structure with one area requiring relocation of existing steelwork to accommodate a new platform.
Challenge:
- Working with a confined and irregular space: The existing mill structure had limited room for new installations, requiring precise planning and fabrication to fit new steel platforms, crossovers and stairs. One key area being inside a conveyor loop where there very limited access.
- Adapting the existing structure: Relocating a part of the existing support steelwork, including cutting off overhanging steelwork.
- Restricted working environment: Installation of new steel platforms and staircases within tight spatial constraints, requiring precise measurement, modular fabrication, and on-site assembly.
Actions:
- Detailed site surveys: Tadweld went back and forth to site taking various measurements against regular designs for the different areas to assess restrictions and accurately plan the placement of new stairs, platforms, and modified steelwork.
- Bespoke fabrication: All steelwork was custom designed and fabricated specifically for each area, as varying spatial constraints and access conditions required tailored solutions to achieve efficient installation and navigate tight access routes around the site.Tadweld had to cut into existing platforms on three occasions to create access. We created access in the handrails and seamlessly transitioned the platforms to the new stairs which were made to look like part of the existing structure.
- On site controlled installation: The relocation and modification of existing support steelwork was executed in a phased manner, maintaining the stability of adjacent structures while enabling the installation of new platforms and access solutions in other areas across the site.
Results:
- Improved access and functionality: New staircases and platforms provided safe and permanent access to previously unreachable areas, enhancing usability across multiple sections of the site.
- Efficient installation and minimal disruption: Careful planning, bespoke fabrication, and phased execution ensured the works were completed efficiently, within tight areas, with minimal impact on surrounding operations and structures.
- Optimised structural layout: The relocation and modification of the existing support steelwork allowed for the integration of a new platform without compromising the integrity or performance of the existing framework.
“Tadweld delivered excellent results on our most recent project, the team were professional, efficient, and ensured the work met a high standard throughout, despite all the special constraints on our site. We would not hesitate to recommend Tadweld for any complex and accessibility works” – Aarron Mitchell, Factory Manager
