Structure Evaluation Engineers

Cerestar USA, Inc.
Evaluation of Shaker Structure
Hammond, Indiana

The new Shaker Structure experienced excessive movement and vibration, as well as failure of wall panel and floor plate welds right after beginning operation. SEE was retained to review design documents and perform a condition survey to identify structural deficiencies and recommend corrective measures. After reviewing the design-build documents and the as-built conditions, SEE concluded that drawings did not show all the proper details, as-built members were improperly installed or modified without approval, and no calculations were performed for connections. Ten percent of the welds were reviewed using magnetic particle technique to identify weld defects and to determine whether the failed welds were due to stress or fatigue. SEE issued two comprehensive reports that included our findings, conclusions, and recommendations, as well as list of concerns that the design-build team must address and correct immediately.

Cooper Lighting
Evaluation of Underground Pipes
Elk Grove Village, Illinois

SEE was hired to determine why a 10" diameter underground pipe (carrying water for a fire protection system) kept breaking. SEE performed a field investigation, took samples of broken pipe, soil and groundwater, and reviewed the available documents. It was determined that the pipe breaking was caused by severe corrosion from the outside surface. However, laboratory testing results indicated that there were no defects in the pipe material and the soil and groundwater did not contain harmful compounds. SEE determined that the cause of corrosion was stray electrical currents moving across the pipe. A comprehensive report was issued which included findings, conclusions, and three repair options including cathodic protection.

Combined Metals of Chicago
Prepurchase Assessment
Bellwood, Illinois

Combined Metals of Chicago was considering purchasing an industrial facility in Bellwood, Illinois. The facility included seven (7) different structures which consisted of a masonry office building, several warehouses and an exterior canopy. SEE assessed and reviewed the existing condition of each structure and prepared a report. The report addressed existing conditions, code violations and structural problems associated with each structure. The recommendations included modification, repair and strengthening of structural elements, flashing and waterproofing and total demolition of several buildings. A detailed cost analysis was provided to assist our client in negotiating the final purchase price.

American Maize-Products Company
New Hopper Platform Support
Hammond, Indiana

A 15-foot diameter by 40-foot high steel storage silo with 400,000 lbs. capacity was needed to upgrade the corn handling capability. The steel silo was required to be supported by a structural steel framing system at 60 feet above the ground in order to load cargo trains underneath. SEE reviewed, assessed and took field measurements from the proposed site location. Then we designed a structural framing system which included four different platform levels and was supported on pile foundations. SEE prepared bid documents, assisted the owner in obtaining bids and selecting a contractor, and performed field engineering and testing services during construction.

Cerestar USA, Inc.
Feasibility Study for New Corn Tank Support Structure
Hammond, Indiana

SEE was retained to determine the most practical location, foundation system, structural framing system and construction method for supporting two corn tanks weighing approximately 80 tons each 23 feet above two sets of railroad tracks. SEE conducted a field survey, reviewed drawings of underground utilities, reviewed potential locations for constructability issues, performed preliminary structural design and prepared a cost estimate for the corn tank support systems. Our final report documented our findings, conclusions and recommendations regarding the most practical corn tank support structure for two possible locations.

Czarnowski Exhibit Service Specialists
Timber Warehouse Floor
Chicago, Illinois

SEE was asked to evaluate the existing wood floor, determine the load-carrying capacity and make recommendations for strengthening. A condition survey was performed to collect information related to the floor framing system and to determine the bending member sizes. Wood samples were taken from each framing element for test in the laboratory to determine the wood species. Structural calculations were performed to determine the live load capacity and to verify if the framing system could support the fork truck loading. An evaluation report was prepared which included our field observations, testing results, live load capacity, and recommendations for strengthening the beams and girders to carry more uniform live load in the main warehouse building and adding additional beam in the west building to carry the fork truck load. Our client authorized SEE to prepare detailed modification drawings.

Walter Payton’s Roundhouse
Structural Engineering for
Historical Restoration
Aurora, Illinois

Structure Evaluation Engineers, Inc. was retained to provide structural engineering services to rehabilitate and restore the only historical stone roundhouse in the country. Services included evaluation of exterior stone facade, interior masonry facade, wrought iron roof trusses, cast iron columns and arches, and wood pile foundation. In addition, our services included design of second floor steel framing for office space, new foundation design, timber loft design, evaluation and repair of exterior stone wall settlement, and design of first floor slab on grade.

Cerestar USA, Inc.
Condition Assessment of the Refinery Buildings
Hammond, Indiana

SEE was commissioned to assess the existing condition of four refinery buildings located within the Cerestar USA facility. The objective of our assessment survey was to identify visible structural and related deficiencies and make recommendations on the overall condition of each building. The buildings were constructed at different times ranging from 1907 to 1962. Based on the operational requirements and the extent of deterioration in each building, SEE concluded that only one building could be repaired cost effectively and it would be most cost effective to demolish and re-construct the other three buildings. Due to the severe deterioration observed, SEE made emergency recommendations that included immediate shoring and implementation of a monitoring program until repairs are made or the buildings are demolished. Our client hired SEE to oversee the installation of the emergency shoring and monitor the buildings until funds become available.

Impressions Unlimited
Floor Evaluation and Rehabilitation
Elk Grove Village, Illinois

SEE was retained to determine if the existing concrete floor slab can support a new printing press (49,000 lbs) without cracking or differential settlement. SEE removed concrete core samples and soil borings to evaluate floor condition and soil type. It was determined that a new concrete machinery base is needed to support the printing press. SEE designed a new concrete base, prepared bid documents, and oversaw the construction.

Standard Wire and Steel Works
Evaluation of Roof Collapse
Harvey, Illinois

Structure Evaluation Engineers, Inc. was asked to perform an evaluation of the collapsed roof trusses and provide the most cost effective roof repair or replacement options. The wood trusses were 76 feet long by 16 feet high and supported the roof for an open 15,000 square feet building. A total of 12 trusses were used to support the roof. SEE performed a field condition survey and took wood samples to determine the wood species as well as to check for the presence of wood rot. It was determined that the ends of the trusses were deteriorated and had moved. As a result of this movement, compression and tension members in the trusses failed which resulted in the collapse of two trusses. Laboratory testing indicated wood rot in samples that were taken from the deteriorated areas. SEE prepared a report that included our findings, results, conclusions, and recommendations. Two rehabilitation options were presented along with a cost estimate for our client to review.

American Maize-Products Company
Feasibility and Cost Analysis
for Corn Silos
Hammond, Indiana

Structure Evaluation Engineers, Inc. was retained to perform feasibility and cost analysis for 14 concrete corn silos. Our client wanted to maintain these silos for a period of five years. SEE developed a comprehensive list of necessary structural repair items for each silo that will allow operation for five years. Also, SEE prepared a detailed cost analysis for various alternates that helped our client to plan and budget for future expansion and modification.

Microdynamics Group
Preventive Maintenance
Naperville, Illinois

Structure Evaluation Engineers, Inc. was retained to provide preventive maintenance services for the 30,000 square feet one story industrial facility. SEE performed an initial field condition survey that included floor slab, exterior masonry walls and cladding, roofing and waterproofing, sidewalks and loading dock slabs, roof framing system, and asphalt parking lot. SEE developed a maintenance program based upon existing conditions and prepared a detailed check list for each component of the building. The check list indicated problems and deficiencies with each item and provided recommendations to correct them. SEE issued a report that included field assessments, check lists, recommendations, and statement of overall building condition on an annual basis.

M. Block and Sons, Inc.
Industrial Floor Evaluation
Chicago, Illinois

Structure Evaluation Engineers, Inc. was retained to evaluate excessive cracking in the supported structural concrete floor slab. The subject warehouse floor was constructed in 1927 and was approximately 80,000 square feet. The floor was used to store household appliances and in addition was subject to heavy fork truck traffic. Significant cracking occurred throughout the warehouse and two areas were closed to traffic. SEE performed a structural evaluation and issued a comprehensive report that include our findings, conclusions, and three repair recommendations with cost estimates for each repair option.

MC Machinery Systems
Existing Floor Evaluation
Elk Grove Village, Illinois

Structure Evaluation Engineers, Inc. was retained to evaluate existing slab on grade and soil to determine if a Mitsubishi molding machine that weighs 250 tons could be supported without significant slab cracking or differential settlement. SEE removed concrete core samples and soil borings to evaluated floor condition and soil type. After reviewing testing results, performing condition survey, and reviewing manufacturer’s drawings and data it was concluded that soil had adequate bearing capacity to support the applied loads. However, the slab on grade would have excessive cracking. SEE recommended that new independent reinforced concrete machinery bases be constructed to support the molding machines.

Royce Realty & Management, Inc.
Royce Restaurants and Banquets
Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois

SEE was retained to perform load testing at the second floor of the Royce Restaurant. The as-built condition was different from the original drawings. It was recommended to perform load testing to determine the structural adequacy of the second floor composite deck and beams. SEE selected two critical bays and performed full scale load testing. The test area was approximately 34 feet by 40 feet. SEE installed deflection gauges at various locations to measure and study the response of the floor deck, beams and columns during loading and recovery periods. SEE issued a comprehensive report that outlined testing procedures, test results, and a statement on code compliance.

Cerestar USA, Inc.
Sand Infiltration and Grouting
Hammond, Indiana

Four connected structures on this site form the refinery buildings dated back to 1907. Three of these buildings are at grade level with one having a basement approximately 10' below grade. During routine maintenance a deposit of sand 2' to 3' deep was observed over the entire basement area. SEE was retained to investigate this phenomenon and, after comprehensive evaluation, determined that a sudden surge in the ground water level had forced sand into the basement through joints and cracks in the floor. It was also determined that the other refinery building floors had been undermined as a result of this surge. SEE designed a cost-effective repair program to re-establish structural integrity of the foundations and slab on grade by adopting penetrative pressure grouting techniques that allowed full operation of the plant during construction. SEE provided technical advice during the construction and oversaw the remedial work.

Chicago Flameproof
Evaluation of Treatment Floor
Montgomery, Illinois

Structure Evaluation Engineers, Inc. was retained to review the existing condition of concrete floor slab for potential signs of deterioration that would allow infiltration of treating chemicals to the soil beneath the slab on grade. The 20,000 square foot building was used to store pressure treated timber products during the drying process. Concern for potential contamination of soil and an adjacent watercourse initiated the request for this evaluation. SEE prepared and issued a report addressing problems associated with the concrete floor slab and recommendations for repair items.

Roberts Pharmaceutical Corporation
Prepurchase Assessment
Eatontown, New Jersey

Our client was considering purchase of a 66,000 square foot industrial facility with attached office building. The industrial building is a one story structure approximately 30 feet tall consisting of a flat roof with tilt-up precast wall panels. The office building is a one story structure with a flat roof and brick masonry facade. SEE performed a prepurchase assessment to evaluate the general condition of the structural components, roofing, exterior facade, floors and foundation, and parking lot; and identified structural and related deficiencies, non-code compliant items, and other visible deterioration. SEE prepared a comprehensive report that included our observations, conclusions, and recommendations along with estimated construction cost to assist our client in negotiating the final purchase price.

Timber Lodge Steakhouse
Column Removal Design
Minneapolis, Minnesota

Structure Evaluation Engineers, Inc. was retained to evaluate removal of an existing column and roof framing system for additional roof loading. We evaluated the existing building condition, soil properties, footings, and feasibility of column relocation based on our client’s needs and requirements. SEE designed an innovative column replacement system that allowed column removal without modification to the roof framing system. We prepared modification documents and retained a contractor to perform the work. SEE oversaw the construction work to assure compliance with design intent and code requirements.

Cerestar USA, Inc.
Building 97
Hammond, Indiana

Structure Evaluation Engineers, Inc. was retained to perform a condition evaluation of Building 97 at the above corn processing facility. SEE issued a comprehensive report which addressed problems associated with foundation movement, masonry deterioration and deterioration of water retaining structures. Our report included repair recommendations and cost estimates for the recommended rehabilitation program which allowed continued operation of the facility during repair. Following review of our investigative report, our client authorized SEE to prepare bid documents for the structural rehabilitation of Building 97.

Holiday Inn
Hotel Accommodation
Crystal Lake, Illinois

Structure Evaluation Engineers, Inc. was retained by RFS Hotel Investors to evaluate cracking of this six story load-bearing masonry structure. After extended monitoring and review of construction drawings, SEE determined that daily and seasonal fluctuations in temperature caused the structure to crack in areas subject to differential temperature change. SEE provided an extensive report giving our findings, conclusions and the most practical methods for limiting further deterioration. SEE designed structural restraint systems which accommodate thermal movement for portions of the building which were structurally compromised.

ISK Magnetics, Inc.
Evaluation and Design
of Hoist Structural Framing
Valparaiso, Indiana

ISK Magnetics retained SEE to perform a load rating analysis of structural framing for two hoists and to design the framing for a third hoist. SEE performed a field condition survey to document framing member arrangement, sizes, and connection details including bolt and weld configurations. Based on our field condition survey, SEE performed a structural analysis of the existing framing and connections by positioning the hoisted load in all critical locations. From this analysis, SEE provided a load rating for each hoist. Additionally, SEE designed an innovative third hoist framing system which reused main structural members from an old hoist framework thus saving our client money.

Mason Corporation
Evaluation and Design
of Structural Modification
West Chicago, Illinois

SEE was retained to evaluate and design structural modifications to the exterior wall of an industrial building being converted to office space. The evaluation and design included the removal of existing structural framing members in the wall to allow for installation of eight new windows up to 17' long and 4' tall. SEE analyzed the existing framing and designed new framing to efficiently transfer the loads from the removed existing framing and new window systems. Additionally, SEE designed a strengthening system to support deficient original roof framing near the new window openings.

Blackhawk Stone
Simulated Stone Cornice
Anchorage Design
Wisconsin Electric Power Company
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Blackhawk Stone was selected by Wisconsin Electric Power Company to provide intricate cast polymer simulated stone cornice pieces to replace the existing stone cornice on their historic building in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Blackhawk Stone retained SEE to design an anchorage system to securely suspend the large simulated stone pieces 80' above the public sidewalk surrounding the building. The anchorage system had to be easy to install, carry the weight of the pieces and wind loads, all while allowing each cast polymer piece to freely expand and contract with temperature changes at a rate 13 times greater than that of limestone. SEE performed structural calculations, complete anchorage system design and prepared drawings for the simulated stone anchorage system.

New City At Fort Sheridan
Flagpole Structural Analysis
Fort Sheridan, Illinois

When concerns were raised regarding the structural capacity of an existing 100' tall flagpole, SEE was contacted to perform a field evaluation and structural analysis of the flagpole. Our clients main concern was to determine the maximum size flag the pole could safely support assuming the flag was to remain on the pole continuously. SEE performed field measurements to determine the pole height, diameter at base, and wall thickness at base. SEE performed a structural analysis of the flagpole capacity using appropriate code required wind loading on the flagpole and flag. Based on the results of our analysis, SEE recommended an appropriate maximum size flag that the pole could safely support.

Cerestar USA, Inc.
Buildings 94, 100 & 102
Soil Stabilization
Hammond, Indiana

Following the discovery of weak soil beneath the footings of building 100 during a retrofit project, SEE was retained to perform soil evaluation, design repair details, and prepare repair documents for soil stabilization beneath buildings 94, 100 & 102. Soil and structure evaluations indicated that a number of factors influenced the soil being considered weak in the areas investigated. These factors included consolidation of an underlying clay layer, decomposition of peat inclusions, chemical degradation of slag fill due to process chemicals, and applied footing stresses in excess of the design values. Based upon our evaluations, SEE designed an economic repair solution utilizing pressure grouting methods to stabilize the footings and provide support for the first floor tanks and equipment while maintaining production within the facility.

Cerestar USA, Inc.
Temporary Tank Foundation
Hammond, Indiana

As part of the rehabilitation of Building 97 at the above facility it was necessary to provide temporary tank storage to maintain production during construction work in the brine tanks. SEE was retained to design a footing solution for the temporary tank. SEE designed a foundation system consisting of modular timber units which were economical and easy to install and also allowed for easy removal following completion of the rehabilitation project.

Worley Machining, Inc.
Supported Floor System
Evaluation and Strengthening Design
Aurora, Illinois

Worley Machining was planning to expand their machining capability by placing additional equipment on an existing supported floor system used only for occasional light storage. SEE was retained to determine if the existing floor system was capable of supporting the new machines. SEE obtained field measurements of concrete slab, metal deck, steel joists, steel beams, and typical connections. SEE performed a structural analysis and determined that the existing system would have to be strengthened. The owner authorized SEE to design a strengthening system for the floor. Our solution was to install a small number of additional framing members in key locations which could be easily supplanted from below the floor system. This simple solution allowed our client to add the new machining equipment immediately and also provided for future additional equipment to be placed adjacent to this area.

T-Square, Inc.
Satellite Antenna Analysis and Design
Multiple Global Applications
Glen Park, Indiana

SEE was retained to review the structural performance of an adjustable focus ground based 6.1 meter diameter satellite antenna and its mount structure at various operational positions and wind load conditions. The mount structure is constructed of grade A36 steel and the antenna structure is constructed of aluminum of four separate Alloy-Terpene designations. In order to accurately model the antenna performance under these conditions SEE constructed a precise full scale 3 dimensional faceted model in AutoCAD and exported this into the finite element analysis package (RISA 3-D). Once the 3D model was stored in the native RISA 3D format boundary conditions, material properties, sectional properties, and numerous wind load criteria (derived from TIA/EIA 222) were superimposed. At this point an initial analysis highlighted local areas of weakness within the structure which SEE felt could be significantly strengthened with minor structural modifications. After consultation with our client SEE was given the go ahead to perform redesign of these minor modifications for inclusion in the final analysis. Based upon this analysis, SEE compiled a substantial report which included graphical stress plots at each wind load case and operational position, pointing accuracy of the assembly under load, connection checks at critical points, and a typical foundation solution based on the provisions of TIA/EIA-222.

Globecomm Systems, Inc.
Satellite Antenna Analysis
Multiple Global Applications
Hauppauge, New York

SEE was retained to evaluate the structural performance of an adjustable focus ground based satellite antenna similar to that of the T-Square, Inc. Antenna. In this analysis structural performance under specific operational positions and wind speeds was required by our client. Full scale 3-dimensional modeling of the antenna was performed within AutoCAD and finite element analysis was then performed using RISA 3D. Based upon the results of our analysis SEE compiled a substantial report which included pointing accuracy of the structure, graphical stress plots, and connection checks for each of the stipulated load cases.

Marcal Paper Mills, Inc.
Evaluation of Exterior Masonry Wall
Chicago, Illinois

Upon receiving a citation from the building department, Marcal Paper Mills contacted SEE to perform an evaluation of the condition of an exterior masonry wall adjacent to a public sidewalk. SEE performed a field evaluation which consisted of accurately documenting vertical profiles of the wall at regularly spaced intervals as well as performing selective observation openings in the wall to observe mortar condition, wall thickness, and condition of steel lintels. Our findings indicated that the wall was severely deteriorated and had leaned and bowed up to 4" in various areas due to significant amounts of water entering the wall and deteriorating the mortar in the past. SEE recommended complete replacement of the wall as the most cost-effective repair solution.

AEW Capital Management
Tilt-Up Concrete Wall Panels
Des Plaines, Illinois

SEE was retained to determine the cause of extensive cracking of the tilt-up concrete wall panels at Port America O’Hare, two airfreight/distribution warehouses (approximately 120,000 square feet). Several engineering and architectural firms evaluated the cracking and offered opinions in the past but the cracking had gotten worse. The wall panels are 24 feet wide and 30 feet high and were cast at the site. Over the years numerous overhead door openings have been cut and/or widen to accommodate tenants’ needs. SEE performed field condition survey to review and document existing condition of the wall panels. We reviewed original construction drawings and previous engineering reports and repair drawings. After reviewing original drawings SEE discovered a significant design flaw and confirmed it in the field that resulted in 79% overstressed at the panels with two overhead door openings and over 200% after widening the openings. Eighty seven wall panels required structural strengthening and 18 of them which were repaired previously were not adequate. SEE prepared structural strengthening drawings for all 87 wall panels that required repair with appropriate detailing.

Turtle Creek Casino
Wastewater Treatment Plant
Williamsburg, Michigan

VEC Engineering retained SEE to provide structural engineering and design services for design of a new 100,000 gallon wastewater treatment plant for Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. The phase one of the project included design of pre-equalization, post-equalization, aerobic digester, SBR reactor, filter, and chemical storage tanks. SEE designed concrete mat foundation for the entire complex and proposed four roof framing systems over the entire area. Phase two of the project included design of office, mechanical, and laboratory buildings; and roof framing over the entire complex.

General American Door Co.
Uniform Static Load Test
Montgomery, Illinois

SEE was retained to witness uniform static wind load testing of residential garage doors for different sizes, configuration, material, and loading pressure and to prepare a report upon completion of each test to be submitted to the code official of North Carolina and Florida. We followed standard testing procedures per ASTM E330 and SBCCI-1999 Standard Building Code requirements. Each door was tested for negative and positive pressure at specified preload (i.e. half of the design load), design load, and test load (i.e. one and a half times the design load). We documented deflections and recoveries for design and test loads. Neither SBCCI nor ASTM E330 specifies pass/fail criteria. DASMA (Door & Access Systems Manufacturers’ Association, International) has proposed a standard for testing sectional overhead type doors which has pass/fail criteria. However, the standard has not been approved yet. Hence, SEE defined the pass in our reports as (1) the door system sustained both the design load and test load for the predetermined amount of time, (2) upon the completion of design load testing the door system recovered at least 75% of its maximum deflection, (3) the door system remained in the opening throughout the duration of the test, and (4) the door system was operable, or was deemed to be operable at the completion of the test.

Artistic Builders, Inc.
Load Carrying Capacity
Chicago, Illinois

SEE was retained to evaluate the load-carrying capacity of the floor slab system at a warehouse building in Chicago, Illinois. The subject building was a four story warehouse with basement and reported to be approximately 120 years old. Exterior walls were masonry bearing walls and the interior framing was timber with arched unreinforced cinder concrete slab supported by steel beams. Based upon our initial field condition survey, SEE selected one bay on the third floor which appeared to be in good condition compared to other bays to perform detail evaluation. Samples from wood beams and columns, from steel beams, and from concrete floor slab were removed to test in laboratory to determine material property. Based upon our field observations, laboratory testing and our structural calculations, we concluded that the existing floor system does not have adequate capacity to be used as a storage facility due to dead load of concrete floor and in our opinion the arched unreinforced concrete floor was not the original floor system. SEErecommended removing the deteriorated existing arched unreinforced concrete slab and replacing it with a light-weight floor system that could carry the code required loads for a storage facility.

Zera Construction Company
Fitness Warehouse-Floor Enclosing
Cicero, Illinois

The store owner wanted to enclose an open space on the second floor for aerobic exercise classes. SEE conducted field evaluation and measurements to determine the existing condition and load carrying capacity of the framing system and feasibility of the plan. After evaluation, SEE designed a second floor framing system to support the intended loads. SEE oversaw the construction.