I have always admired those who have the patience to build the wonderfully complex and beautiful models of the windjammer sailing ships with 3 or 4 masts, replete with ropes and sails, inside those thin-necked glass bottles. What tools did these craftsmen use? How did they assemble the parts? What were the erection techniques? The team that designed and built the Acoustical Enhancement Project for Roy Thomson Hall faced similar challenges.
Just as the ship model makers must use small parts, so too did the Roy Thomson Hall Acoustical Enhancement Project team. Getting the parts through the one existing door was only part of the story; they also had to assemble and erect the new steel support structure with a crane too large to slip through the “eye of a needle” door. The cover of this issue showcases the finished product; however, behind the scenes lies a remarkable tale involving the close cooperation of all parties to this contract.
The new Canadian Light Source project in Saskatoon presented a different set of challenges for the UMA Group and Supreme Steel. Housing the world’s fourth larges synchrotron, the Canadian Light Source building features a structure with an unobstructed span of 83 m in both directions. With a history of strength, structural steel provided the opportunity to house this base of research which will enhance all our lives and that of our children well into the future.
Across the country, steel structures continue to be recognized for their innovations, graceful lines, and economic solutions to demanding needs. Again Advantage Steel is proud to feature the CISC Regional Design Awards for 2002.
Have a steel question that you always wanted to ask? Then check out the new feature column in this issue of Advantage Steel – Ask Dr. Sylvie.
Michael I. Gilmor, P.Eng. Editor