Field measurements can be a double-edged sword in any project. They are essential for precision steel fabrication but can be a deadly trap if not handled correctly.
Get ready for the off-road trip?
Ignoring field conditions is like planning an Amazon Jungle expedition using Google Maps only.
The field is an unpredictable environment. You may think of it as a lovely walk in the park, but in most cases, it turns out to be a black swamp full of wriggling MEP ducts and hidden existing structures. While you can’t prepare for every field surprise, you should at least be aware of them when you bid on the project.
It’s better to consult with your detailer, who will be your devoted explorer throughout the project. Ask them if they see any traps, bottlenecks, or debris that could stall you and elongate your project.
Sharpen your tools
The most common error we see is that steel fabricators do not see a system and geometric dependencies when they take measurements.
This often leads to one or two opposite situations: providing excessive measurements that do not add up or incomplete information. Both scenarios lead to additional site visits and project delays.
So we advice fabricators to do this: when you take your measurements, try to draw the field conditions to scale in AutoCAD before leaving the site. If you can’t do this, then your steel detailer won’t be able to either. This will save a lot of time for both you and your detailer. Learned from personal experience on many different projects.
Make sure your radio is working
Field measurements often impact the original design intent, sometimes requiring an additional approval round.
For example, an increased actual floor-to-floor height can require an additional tread on your stairs. The issue is: which landing should be shortened to allow this move?
Make sure you have established an open instant communication channel. In these cases, you can coordinate and address issues like this in a few hours instead of days. You will have to follow up with formal paperwork, but at least you won’t be sitting and waiting for the good weather to move forward.
By understanding the challenges and preparing adequately, you can ensure smoother project execution and greater success.
If you have any stories or tips about handling field measurements, we’d love to hear from you. Share your experiences below and let’s continue the conversation.
#construction #steeldetailing #steelfabrication
