Project Discovery Petrochemical Manuf. Facility

Project Discovery – CC Petrochemical

Location: Pinole County, Arizona

Client:Cutting Edge Fabrication
Project Type: Industrial – Petrochemical Manufacturing Facility
Scope:Steel Detailing for Moment Connections, Braced Frames, Canopy Structures, and Access Systems

Project Overview

The Project Discovery – CC Petrochemical Manufacturing Facilityis an industrial development designed to support complex petrochemical processing operations. The project incorporates heavy-duty structural steel framing with multiple bracing systems, canopy structures, and integrated access components required for maintenance and operational safety.

Structures Online (SOL) provided detailed steel modeling and connection detailing for the project, focusing on highly congested structural nodes where multiple members intersect. The scope required precision coordination to ensure structural integrity, fabrication efficiency, and safe installation of access components throughout the facility.

Scope of Work

Moment and Brace Connection at Column Junction:

This assembly includes a moment connection integrated with an incoming brace connection at a column junction. The moment connection was modeled with complete end-plate geometry, bolt layouts, and weld preparations to ensure proper fit-up with supporting beams. The brace connection incorporates a gusset plate arrangement with coordinated bolt groups, along with continuity and stiffener plates to deliver a fabrication-ready joint while maintaining clearances between intersecting members.

Multi-Directional Bracing Node:
This joint features a multi-directional brace connection where several inclined braces converge at a central node. The assembly includes a built-up gusset interface designed to accommodate varying brace angles and member sizes. Bolt groups, edge distances, and weld preparations were precisely modeled to ensure alignment and constructability at this congested connection point.

Central Multi-Brace Plate Assembly:
A detailed multi-brace interface was modeled where multiple inclined bracing members frame into a fabricated central plate. The large plate assembly was developed to support several bolt patterns while maintaining adequate spacing and access for erection. Additional detailing—including stiffener plates and weld preparation—ensured the connection was fabrication-ready and structurally robust.

Cantilever Canopy Structure:
The project includes a cantilever canopy assembly fully modeled with supporting beams and inclined bracing members. The connection between the canopy frame and the main structure utilizes fabricated end plates, gusset plates, and multi-row bolt groups. Stiffener plates and alignment features were incorporated to ensure accurate positioning during erection and maintain clearances with surrounding framing.

Access Ladders and Railing Systems:
Vertical access ladders and guardrail assemblies were detailed across multiple locations within the facility. Each ladder was modeled with precise rung spacing, side rails, and cage elements where required. Platform railings were coordinated with consistent post spacing, mid-rails, and top rails. Special attention was given to transition zones between ladders and platforms to maintain safe access, proper openings, and clash-free integration with surrounding structures.

Key Deliverables

· Detailed 3D modelsfor moment connections, braced nodes, canopy structures, and access systems.

· Shop and fabrication drawings with coordinated bolt layouts, gusset plates, and weld details.

· Congested-node detailing ensuring proper clearances and fabrication accessibility.

· Fabrication-ready assemblies optimized for erection sequencing and field installation.

Project Outcome

Through precision modeling and coordinated steel detailing, Structures Online contributed to the successful execution of the Project Discovery – CC Petrochemical Manufacturing Facility. The project demonstrates SOL’s expertise in complex braced connections, industrial steel detailing, and highly congested structural nodes, delivering a robust and constructible solution aligned with the demanding requirements of petrochemical infrastructure.