CONSTRUCTION SERVICES
Our structural engineers provide unique services to contractors to facilitate construction - rigging designs, modular racks, deferred submittals. We work directly with the field superintendents to ensure that our designs suit their needs and fit within the construction schedule.
Multi-Discipline Racks
Electrical, Dry & Wet Mechanical, Process Utilities
GRAFT designs complete racking systems to consolidate multiple utilities on the same supports. This approach removes the need for each trade to support their utilities separate from other trades. We also provide engineering support for lifting and transporting racks such as this one. Every design is based around input from the superintendent overseeing the lift.
Delegated Designs
Pipe Stress Analysis, Utility Supports, Equipment Anchorage, Proprietary Structures
GRAFT is dedicated to designing miscellaneous elements Engineers-of-Record delegate to contractors. Our focus is on first time quality because the construction phase is already underway at this stage. Our attention to detail and reputation often garners approval from Architects and EORs on the first submittal.
Evaluations
New & Existing Structures, Ancillary Components, Safety Assessments
Peeling paint, rust, water stains...all signs of aging. It's never a good option to test the stability of catwalks, ladders, or platforms by using them. Let GRAFT evaluate it so that limitations are better known among the team. This catwalk looks a little worse for wear but was deemed safe for use during construction.
Bridge Utilities
Conduits, Water Lines, Seismic Bracing, Expansion Loops
Bridges move as the temperature rises and falls. We design utilities and their supports to accommodate those movements along with seismic loads and construction access. Our designs are always based on owner and contractor input to ensure the end product matches their vision.
Lifting Cradles
Custom Designs, Material Movers, Lifting by Crane or Forklift
GRAFT designs many construction aids specific to the needs of projects. These custom cradles were used to remove old pipes that were too brittle to transport otherwise. We thrive on unique analyses and working with contractors on solutions like this. Many concepts, such as this one, are developed by the superintendent and analyzed by our team. All team members buy into the solution from the beginning.
Rigging
Lifting Lugs, Spreader Bars, Skids, Building Attachments
GRAFT assists contractors with determining appropriate lifting devices. Many people envision outdoor rigging with cranes such as this modular chiller building. We also do a lot of lifting designs inside facilities where options are limited by space constraints. Our solutions include rigging from embedded strut, structural steel, wood framing, and even large-bore piping.