Challenge

A chemical manufacturing client needed to supply conditioned air to their organics building because the reactions occurring in the structure generate significant heat, making it challenging to work, especially during the summer months. The 10,000 lb unit was too heavy to be supported by the existing roof joists, so Valdes Architecture & Engineering (Valdes) was engaged to design a structure to support the new units.

Solution

Valdes delivered the specifications for the roof top unit (RTU) to the client for this heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) project. The design included the necessary structural support to distribute the load to the building’s columns. Mechanical and electrical design was also provided for the complete installation. Additionally, platforms and railings were designed to provide safe access to the unit.

Impact

The Valdes team was able to successfully respond to the challenges presented throughout this RTU project. Although very little information was available about the reactions taking place in the building, the Valdes team was able to size an HVAC unit to accommodate the heat load. Additionally, supporting the unit on the existing roof was complicated since the building columns were spaced so far apart. Finally, platforms and railings around the entire unit were added to the design after the installation, making the support structure design complex. Each challenge was met with critical thinking resulting in a complete and safe design for our client.

Services

Structural

Mechanical

Electrical