The Challenge
To eliminate field welding, we designed the entire handrail system to be bolted directly to the main structure. Sounds straightforward, but in miscellaneous steel detailing, that means thinking ahead. We had to ensure the bolts could be installed easily on the stairs and that the grating had the right cutouts—so it wouldn’t need adjustments on-site.
Not a major challenge, just something that needed to be handled properly from the start.
Our Expertise
Like in many steel detailing services, some key elements were missing in the original design—specifically, the toe plate. We caught the issue early, made sure it met OSHA requirements and fixed it before it became a problem. That’s the kind of proactive approach that saves time and money down the line.
To speed up the process, we used automation tools that helped us model components quickly and accurately. We also leveraged a custom tool that calculated precise grating cut sizes based on bearing bar placement, ensuring a perfect fit without the need for field modifications.
The Result
Everything fit as planned, the handrails bolted in smoothly, and the grating didn’t need any on-site adjustments. The project wrapped up without any issues, and we never heard about it again—which, in steel detailing, is the best possible outcome.
If you’re looking for expert steel detailing services that ensure everything fits right the first time, we’ve got you covered.
