Kohler Vikrell Bathtub Facility

Kohler Vikrell Bathtub Facility

Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Client: JB Steel
Project Type: Industrial – Manufacturing Facility
Scope: Steel Detailing for Structural Framing, Sloped Roof Systems, Complex Beam Connections, and Pipe Rack Structures

Project Overview

The Kohler Vikrell Bathtub Facility is a large-scale industrial manufacturing project designed to support high-volume production operations. The facility features an expansive structural footprint measuring approximately 2,116 feet in length and 860 feet in width, requiring extensive coordination of structural steel systems across multiple grid zones.

Structures Online (SOL) provided comprehensive steel detailing services for the project, developing a complete 3D structural model that included primary framing members, secondary beams, bracing systems, platforms, and miscellaneous steel components. Due to the scale of the project, the structural model was organized into multiple framing zones to maintain clear assembly structures, fabrication packages, and drawing sets for efficient production and erection.

Scope of Work

Large-Scale Structural Steel Framework:
The project included the full structural steel model covering approximately 2,116 feet in length and 860 feet in width. The complete framing layout—including primary beams, secondary members, bracing systems, platforms, and miscellaneous steel—was modeled with consistent grid alignment and coordinated elevations across the entire structure. Careful segmentation of framing zones ensured organized detailing, fabrication-ready drawings, and efficient erection sequencing.

Sloped Roof Framing System:
The facility incorporates an extensive sloped roof framing system spanning multiple grid lines with varying elevations. Primary and secondary roof members were detailed to match pitch transitions, ensuring accurate alignment of joists, beams, and supporting columns. The sloped configuration required precise control of member rotations, connection geometries at non-orthogonal angles, and coordination at framing intersections where roof slopes changed direction.

Multi-Beam Column Connection:
This connection features two beams framing into a single column at different elevations and orientations. One beam connects to the column web using connection angles and a stabilizing diagonal angle, while the second beam frames into the column flange using a vertical end plate with a multi-row bolt pattern. A supporting channel member with stiffener plates was detailed beneath both beams to provide shared support and maintain structural stability.

Heavy-Duty Column Base Connection:
The column base connection was detailed using a 3½-inch thick base plate welded to the column with a full-depth Complete Joint Penetration (CJP) weld. The anchor bolt layout included multiple bolt groups embedded 2’-6” into the concrete foundation, coordinated with leveling nuts, washers, grout interfaces, and base templates to ensure accurate field installation and structural stability.

Pipe Rack Structural System:
The project also included detailing of a pipe rack structure composed of continuous longitudinal beams, regularly spaced transverse framing members, and braced bays for stability. The open steel framework was modeled to accommodate pipe routing, equipment supports, and maintenance access along the full length of the rack system.

Key Deliverables

• Detailed 3D structural steel model covering the      entire facility footprint.

• Shop and fabrication drawings for      framing members, roof systems, and structural connections.

• Complex connection detailing including multi-beam column      joints and heavy-duty base plates.

• Structural modeling for pipe rack systems integrated      with plant infrastructure.

Project Outcome

Through advanced modeling and precise steel detailing, Structures Online contributed to the successful development of the Kohler Vikrell Bathtub Manufacturing Facility. The project highlights SOL’s expertise in large-scale industrial steel detailing, complex connection coordination, and high-volume fabrication support, delivering a structurally efficient and constructible solution aligned with modern manufacturing facility requirements.