Steel structure manufacturer since 2009 · 8 fabrication bases in China
Primary Steel
Complex steel nodes, built from the model and checked in 3D
Where five members meet at odd angles, the node is designed twice: once for strength, once for whether a welder can reach the root and an inspector can test it. We review both before we accept the geometry.
3D
Model-based fit-up
Multi-cavity
Internal stiffened nodes
Inclined
Columns and braces
UT
Every CJP seam
Node types
What we fabricate
Tubular multi-member nodes
Pipe chords with several braces at different angles.
Inclined and leaning columns
Columns at angle with beam stubs set out in 3D.
Heavy beam-column nodes
Box or cross columns with diaphragms and several beam stubs.
Before pricing
Can it be welded, and can it be tested?
| Check in the model | Problem if ignored | Typical fix |
|---|---|---|
| Torch angle to the weld root | Weld cannot be made to procedure | Change brace order or add access holes |
| Closing plates inside a box node | Last internal welds are blind | Electroslag or one-sided CJP with backing, agreed with engineer |
| UT probe access on both sides | Weld cannot be inspected to the required level | Change joint type or accept alternative NDT |
| Brace overlap at tubular joints | Hidden toe welds | Specify which brace is welded first |
| Heat input into thick plate | Distortion and cracking | Sequence, preheat, restraint plan |
Selection
Welded node or cast steel node?
| Welded node | Cast steel node | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Up to a few members, plate geometry | Many members, smooth free-form shapes |
| Standards | GB 50661, AWS D1.1, EN 1090-2 | Castings to GB 7659 (weldable); JGJ 7 section 5.5 |
| Lead time | Shorter | Pattern and foundry time |
| Fatigue and stress flow | Weld toes are hot spots | Smooth, fewer welds |
| Inspection | UT of welds | UT and MT of casting, plus weld to members |
We fabricate welded nodes. For castings we coordinate with a specialist foundry partner foundry to be confirmed and weld the casting into our members.
Method
How we make a node fit first time
01
Model review
Access, sequence and NDT reach checked.
02
Plate unfolding
Curved and conical plates unfolded and CNC cut.
03
Jig assembly
Node set on a 3D jig with control points.
04
Sequenced welding
Order set to limit distortion.
05
3D survey
Total station or scan against the model.
06
NDT and release
UT on CJP welds, dimensional report.
From our engineers
Agree these before a node is fabricated
Tolerance stack-up. A node connects many members. Agree which connections are adjustable on site (slotted holes, site-welded stubs) and which are fixed.
Control points. Agree the points that will be surveyed and the tolerance for each, so acceptance is objective.
Model source. Rhino or Grasshopper geometry is converted to Tekla; we confirm the conversion with you before cutting.
Do you make cast steel nodes?
We fabricate welded nodes and integrate castings from a specialist foundry.
Can you work from a Rhino model?
Yes, converted to Tekla for detailing and fabrication.
How do you check a node?
By 3D survey of agreed control points against the model, plus UT on full-penetration welds.
Architectural steel
Send the model, not just the drawings
A 3D model lets us check weld access and fit-up before pricing.