PEMB Relocation 3

[JackTrades]

Here's a new one for the books:

I've been asked to propose on design and construction services for a 40,000+ SF PEMB that was originally manufactured for a location and end use that are different from that required by the present owner. The components are crated up on the new site and need a foundation and cladding.

Other than determining if the structure will work for the environmental loads at the new location and if the maximum drift will be compatible with the new use, what other considerations (or cautions) would you have with this?

Any and all advice would be greatly appreciated.

-Jack

 

[civilperson]

The program used to "PRE-ENGINEER" the metal building needs to be known for the determination of what loads were anticipated for this structure. Change of site and cladding may make the pieces understrength and require enormous effort to modify to make code requirements. Without this specific data, you will spend more in engineering time than any savings generated by using a packaged product.

 

[CTSeng]

It's a simple pass/fail check assuming they are not changing the structure or end use. If the design criteria for the new site is less than or equal the original then they are fine.

But I agree with civilperson, it would be nearly impossible to prove that it is acceptable for worse wind/snow/seismic conditions since they are designed so tight.

 

[msquared48]

CTSeng:

It may not be that simple, depending on the age of the PEMB, as code steel frame requirements have changed with time.

JackTrades:

An additional consideration would be a possible change in building useage, affecting fire requirements, sprinklering, insulation, etc.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

 

[JackTrades]

Thanks to all of you for your advice.

I've recently found that there are shop drawings which supposedly indicate the loads for which the structure was designed and that they'll be made availble soon. Also, I believe that this is a relatively new (2 years) design and so should hopefully fall under the latest Code provisions.

msquared48 - Very good point. A change in use might dicate a greater mechanical and insulation loading capacity requirement. I missed that one completely.