A seven-story steel-frame processing structure at the Cabot chemical plant was showing signs of member fatigue and distress due to substandard structural modifications. This raised safety concerns, and the owner was initially advised that the structure would need to be replaced or require a shutdown for repairs.

Seeking alternatives, the owner collaborated with STRUCTURAL. After conducting a feasibility study, the team developed a comprehensive repair plan that would avoid a shutdown.

The repairs included installing a new buttress system, soil stabilization, strengthening of existing structural elements, redesigning and replacing platforms and access structures, and the redesign and installation of critical process structures. Additionally, concrete and steel repairs were executed to ensure the facility’s integrity.

By using the IDB approach, the project was efficiently completed, saving both time and revenue while allowing operations to continue without interruption.