Flaming Bird

Flaming Bird 

Location: Tolleson, Arizona

Client: Able Steel Fabricators Inc.
Project Type: Commercial – Structural Steel
Scope: Steel Detailing for Bracing Systems, Roof Framing, Beam-to-Column Connections, and Access Stairs

Project Overview

The Flaming Bird project involved detailed steel modeling and connection detailing for a structurally intensive commercial building incorporating braced frames, complex roof framing, and integrated access systems. The project required close coordination between vertical and horizontal framing elements to maintain structural efficiency while supporting constructability and erection sequencing.

Structures Online (SOL) was responsible for delivering high-precision steel detailing across multiple framing systems. The scope focused on accurate modeling of bracing interfaces, beam-to-column connections, and access components to ensure fabrication accuracy and smooth field installation.

Scope of Work

Bracing System Coordination
The bracing system was detailed with full coordination between vertical columns, floor beams, and roof framing. Each brace member was modeled with accurate geometry, including gusset plates, bolt arrangements, and weld requirements, while maintaining clearances with adjacent framing and deck supports to enable efficient fabrication and erection.

Roof Framing System
The roof framing system was detailed with complete integration of horizontal members, bracing, and supporting columns. Roof beams and braces were modeled with precise end connections using clip angles, gusset plates, and coordinated bolt patterns, ensuring alignment of the framing grid and consistent elevation profiles.

Beam-to-Column Connection
This beam-to-column connection was detailed with coordinated shear tabs, bolt layouts, and web alignment to ensure proper load transfer. Plate thicknesses, bolt edge distances, and weld accessibility were carefully modeled to maintain fabrication tolerances and erection efficiency.

Multi-Directional Beam, Column, and Brace Connection
A complex multi-directional connection assembly was detailed, integrating vertical framing members with incoming braces. The connection includes shear tabs, bolted end plates, and gusset plates, with bolt spacing, plate thicknesses, and weld locations precisely coordinated to accommodate intersecting members and structural demands.

Access Stair System
An access stair system was modeled as part of an elevated platform structure, fully integrated with supporting beams and columns. Stair flights, intermediate landings, stringers, and railing assemblies were coordinated to maintain clearances, uniform riser heights, and compliant handrail alignment. Connection detailing for landing supports, base plates, and bracing interfaces enabled efficient fabrication and straightforward site installation.

Key Deliverables

• Detailed 3D models for bracing systems, roof      framing, and access structures.

• Shop and fabrication drawings with      coordinated bolt patterns, gusset plates, and weld details.

• Connection detailing optimized for fabrication accuracy and erection      sequencing.

• CNC-ready data and erection-friendly assemblies supporting      efficient onsite installation.

Project Outcome

Through precise modeling and coordinated steel detailing, Structures Online contributed to the successful execution of the Flaming Bird project. The work highlights SOL’s expertise in brace-intensive framing, complex connection detailing, and integrated access systems, delivering a structurally robust and constructible solution aligned with fabrication and field requirements.