Steelwork for energy projects: what to agree before design

Collect equipment supplier information

Initial information includes more than equipment dimensions: support arrangements, maintenance needs and operating conditions also matter. The designer determines which inputs are required for calculations. Create a shared information schedule and set deadlines for each discipline to provide its inputs.

Consider maintenance access

Platforms, access routes and equipment replacement space should be considered alongside the main structure. Adding them later may alter the structural arrangement. Coordination should address both normal operation and planned maintenance activities.

Define discipline interfaces

Energy projects bring structures, pipework, equipment and services together. A clear division of responsibility establishes who supplies information, who designs each interface and who confirms that it meets the agreed assumptions.

• Identify the technical information providers.
• Agree on operational and maintenance access.
• Define the fabrication and erection scope.