Lakeview BP ICBT Structural Assessment
- Structure reviewed: First-floor steel frame with timber/plywood deck (modular office “Lakeview”)
- Equipment: Kardex automated storage units (assessed at fully-loaded manufacturer design loads)
- Checks performed: Global load path (ULS), local deck capacity, beam reactions, deflection/vibration (SLS), bearing/fastenings and layout clearances
- Outcome: No structural modifications required for the assessed layout and loads, subject to the conditions below
- Load distribution & concentrated base reactions
- Kardex units deliver high, uneven point/line loads at their base and fixings; loads must be carried into primary members without over-stressing local decking.
- Existing floor system
- A steel frame + timber deck requires attention to joist direction, bearing widths, fixings and any service penetrations to ensure integrity and stiffness under equipment loads.
- Safety & operational standards
- The installation must maintain structural performance, tolerances for machine alignment and safe access for operators and maintenance.
1) Load calculations and capacity checks
- Used manufacturer data (self-weight + fully-loaded contents) to derive base reactions and worst-case arrangements.
- Verified ULS capacity of supporting beams and secondary members; confirmed SLS deflection criteria consistent with equipment alignment tolerances.
- Checked local deck bearing and fastener patterns at unit interfaces, including minimum edge distances.
2) Layout & positioning rules
- Set out a preferred layout placing unit base lines over/adjacent to primary steel and perpendicular to joist spans to improve load paths.
- Defined minimum clearances to edges/openings and no-cut zones over key members and service routes.
- Where unavoidable, specified simple spreader plates/packer rails to bridge weak deck zones—not required for the final agreed arrangement.
3) Installation conditions & controls
- Permit-to-fix: no new penetrations without engineer review; retain existing fixings spec.
- Vibration/deflection management: set limits for temporary live loads during install (e.g., pallet trucks), and confirm final level/flatness at commissioning.
- Inspection & sign-off: pre-installation check of deck condition and fixings; as-installed red-line layout retained in the O&M record.
- Cleared for installation: the assessed Kardex units are acceptable without structural modification for the agreed layout and loads.
- Defined rules: clear positioning, fixing and access conditions to protect the floor system.
- Assurance for operations: serviceability performance (deflection/vibration) within limits suitable for equipment alignment and safe use.
Structural assessment & calculations · Equipment load appraisal · Layout/positioning advice · Installation conditions & permit controls · Commissioning checks & O&M inputs
Expertise in Complex Structural Challenges
- Advanced Engineering Solutions: Skilled in addressing intricate structural issues through innovative engineering practices.
- Innovative Approaches: Utilises cutting-edge technology and methodologies.
Customised Solutions
- Tailored Designs: Solutions crafted to meet the specific needs of each project and client.
- Client Collaboration: Works closely with clients to understand their requirements and achieve desired outcomes.
Commitment to Quality
- Stringent Quality Control: Maintains high standards throughout project execution, from design to commissioning.
- Safety Focused: Prioritises safety in all aspects of design and implementation, adhering to the highest industry standards.
GEM Enterprise specialises in comprehensive structural and civil engineering services. Our experienced team is dedicated to delivering innovative, safe, and efficient solutions for complex engineering challenges. With a commitment to excellence and client satisfaction, we provide services ranging from structural assessments to the design and implementation of bespoke engineering solutions.
