Profile

Company Profile

Byrne Engineering Inc. is a Canadian firm of independent consulting professional engineers established in 1966. In November 2009, Byrne was acquired by Ameresco Canada Inc. (Ameresco). This allows Byrne to draw on Ameresco's solid compliment of resources and energy cost savings solutions while providing Ameresco with a complete engineering services division.

Byrne brings together engineers and technical personnel specializing in mechanical, electrical and structural engineering, with a proven track record in the following fields: energy, municipal, infrastructure & institutional, building design & rehabilitation, transportation, product development & FEA, and heavy industry and manufacturing.

Byrne provides engineering services for projects up to $50 million throughout North America, the Caribbean and overseas.

Each project is carried out under the direction of a Project Engineer assigned to coordinate all facets of the work. In this way, we endeavor to provide close client liaison and expedite work progress. The company has carried out assignments for both industry and all levels of government and has achieved national recognition in Canada.

Our objective is to work closely with our clients to provide an integrated approach to achieve practical and economical solutions to their most difficult engineering challenges.

Energy - Renewable & Sustainable

Client: #  |  #, #, #

Byrne Engineering has grown as a market leader in the solar PV industry since 2009.  The Byrne team is supported by a number of qualified structural and electrical engineers and technologists that have considerable training and experience in rooftop mounted solar PV technology. Over the past year alone, Byrne staff has been involved in the design and construction of over 40 rooftop mounted solar PV systems varying in size from 75kW to 250kW and totaling almost 5MW in total A/C output.  Byrne is currently in development of several rooftop and ground mounted solar systems. 

Byrne works closely with several established solar PV panel and racking suppliers and manufacturers to develop a successful design.  The majority of Byrne’s solar project experience involves both the technical engineering design and then the construction and commissioning of these systems.  Thus, our staff has become very knowledgeable on the successful operation of the specialized solar equipment including the D/C and A/C systems, inverters and monitoring systems. In many cases, Byrne guarantees the performance of our solar projects.

Energy

Energy Conservation Study E-Coat Line

Client: DaimlerChrysler Canada Inc. Assembly Plant  |  Windsor, Ontario, Canada

Priming van bodies by means of electro-deposition (E- coating) requires significant amounts of energy at Chrysler's Windsor Assembly Plant. Much of this energy is input to the E-coat bath, a very large tank containing suspended paint solids that are deposited on the van bodies as they move through it.

The bath tends to heat up unless the temperature is carefully monitored and controlled. Chrysler had been cooling the bath using a 200 Ton chiller and two large plate type heat exchangers. The heat was rejected to a rooftop mounted cooling tower.

Byrne Engineering Inc. undertook a study to determine if the bath temperature could be maintained if the chiller was removed and only cooling tower water was used. The study was prompted by a desire on Chrysler's part to not only reduce energy costs, but to eliminate the ozone depleting CFC-11 used in the chiller.

Several options were examined in terms of equipment layout and pumping arrangements. In addition, alternatives for providing back-up cooling received careful scrutiny.

Possibilities included:

  • Screw compressors employing HFC's
  • Absorption units
  • Connecting to a central chilled water system

Each of the alternatives was evaluated for technical feasibility, annual operating costs, reliability and capital cost.

It was determined that the bath temperature could be maintained on cooling tower water, even in mid-summer, as long as the heat exchangers were kept in a reasonably clean condition. Byrne Engineering Inc. recommended a piping/pumping configuration that minimized energy use and that back-up be provided by connecting to the central water system since this was the least cost and most reliable standby option.

Implementation of this scheme will save Chrysler about $65,000 in electrical energy costs annually, reduce electrical demand by 188 kW and eliminate the need to meet costly future guidelines.

Energy

Hatchet Bay Temporary Power Station

Client: MAN Diesel Canada  |  Eleuthera, Bahamas, Bahamas

The Bahamas is a popular vacation area for many who want to enjoy sunny beaches and time to unwind. Many resorts are expanding and upgrading; also new resorts are planned to accommodate the tourism industry. To meet the growing demand for power in the Bahamas, the Bahamas Electricity Corporation has contracted MAN Diesel to provide a turnkey solution for a new temporary power station in Hatchet Bay, Eleuthera, Bahamas. The new plant addition was to house 4 x 3.7' - 4.0 MW generator units, switch gear, control room and all necessary ancillary equipment.

MAN Diesel is a world leader in providing power generation equipment. They provide large turnkey solutions to many remote areas where no other source of power is readily available.

Byrne was asked to assist in the generation of designs and specifications for the power building and all ancillary equipment housing and foundations. This would allow MAN Diesel Canada to concentrate on its core expertise of supplying power generation equipment.

Byrne was retained to provide all engineering design services and construction support for the building structures required. With construction occurring in the Bahamas, Byrne assembled a team of engineering and architectural professionals from the Bahamas. The team covered all the necessary disciplines to supply a design package which would allowed MAN Diesel Canada to procure a general constructor to provide complete installation of the power plant.

Energy

Ottawa French School Board

Client: Ameresco Canada  |  Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Byrne Engineering Inc. (Byrne) and parent company Ameresco Canada Inc. (Ameresco) evaluated the feasibility of installing Solar Photovoltaic Cells on the rooftops of 30 schools in the Ottawa French School Board system. Once this process is complete, Ameresco will apply for a 20 year power purchase agreement under the OPA's FIT program for the school sites that meet the feasibility criteria.

As part of the process, Byrne reviewed available roof drawing information from the Ottawa French School Board, and performed a site visit to the board offices and site locations to qualify the structural load bearing capabilities of the roof structures.

The objective of the structural assessment was to adjust the maximum PV array size to fit the existing roof structure, and estimate roof reinforcing costs necessary to support the maximum load for each of the 30 school roof structures.

Once approved by OPA, the technical details have to be presented to the Local Distributer Company (LDC) by a Professional Engineering firm registered in Ontario. The process entails a Connection Impact Assessment (CIA) which determines how the green project will impact the power distribution network.

The detail of how the green energy will be connected to power distribution networks is outlined in the Form B or C (standard LDC form) and a Single Line Diagram (SLD). Byrne visited all sites and collected necessary information from vendors and installers in order to complete the Form B or C and generate the SLD. 

Byrne has recently completed all of the necessary electrical and structural designs necessary to construct this solar array.  Ameresco has subcontracted the construction of these projects and Byrne engineering staff are providing construction oversight and supervision.  The projects are expected to be generating electricity in late 2010.

 

Energy

Grand Erie District School Board - Solar PV

Client: Ameresco Canada  |  Burlington, Ontario, Canada

Ameresco Canada Inc. (Ameresco) evaluated the feasibility of installing Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Cells on the rooftops of 23 schools in the Grand Erie District School Board  system.  Once the evaluation was completed, Ameresco applied for a 20 year power purchase agreement under the OPA’s FIT Program for the school sites that met the feasibility criteria.

Byrne Engineering was involved in the entire application process and reviewed all available roof drawing information from the school board, and performed site visits to each school locations to access the structural load bearing capabilities of the roof structures.  Specific locations for the solar PV arrays were determined by reviewing the exterior of the schools to minimize interference with existing mechanical equipment. The objective of the structural assessment was to either adjust the maximum

solar PV array size to fit the existing roof structure, or estimate the roof reinforcing costs necessary to support the maximum load for each of the 23 school roof structures.

Each school roof was evaluated in numerous areas and the solar PV layouts were broken down and evaluated for accuracy including: original structural design loading, square footage and associated number of panels that were to be installed.    Each area was optimized for the best possible panel distribution.

Once approvals for the structural system were received by OPA, Byrne developed the electrical installation technical details, which were then presented to the Local Distributer Company (LDC). This process entailed a Connection Impact Assessment (CIA) which determined how the solar PV project will impact the power distribution network.

Details for connection of the green energy system to the power distribution networks was outlined in the Form B or C (standard LDC form) and a Single Line Diagram (SLD) was developed for each site. Byrne performed an inspection of each school site, reviewed available drawings and confirmed the school power distribution details, including connected capacity.  The LDC was contacted to confirm connection details and any other requirements particular to their infrastructure.  Byrne then collected the necessary information from vendors and installers in order to complete the Form B or C and generate the SLD. 

During the construction phase, Byrne will provide detailed structural and electrical engineering design and specifications for installation, and oversee commissioning of the entire solar PV system.

 

Energy

Municipal, Infrastructure & Institutional

Client: #  |  #, #, #

Since the mid-1970s, Byrne has been engaged in the engineering design as well as project and construction management of new and renewal projects worth up to $25 million across Canada working in partnership with numerous municipal and institutional clients at all levels.

Infrastructure renewal projects for municipalities include: movable bridges, static bridges and culverts, asset management, building rehabilitation of government buildings, city halls, recreation centers, courthouses, libraries, and waste management projects such as transfer stations and material recycling facilities (MRFs).

Byrne's work with universities, colleges and schools include new buildings, expansion and rehabilitation of classrooms, lecture halls, theatres, administrative offices, laboratories, gymnasiums, libraries, cafeterias computer, IT and server rooms.

Our extensive municipal client portfolio extends from Public Works Government Services Canada, to the Ministry of Transportation Ontario and municipal work with Burlington, Hamilton, County of Elgin and Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Our institutional clients include: Ryerson University, Rainbow School District and Conseil Scolaire de district Catholique Centre-Sud, a client for which we provide bilingual services.

Municipal, Infrastructure & Institutional

Waste & Sewage Dumping Station

Client: City of Hamilton  |  Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Byrne Engineering Inc. was retained to design a waste and sewage dumping station for the Regional Municipality of Hamilton-Wentworth. The station replaces two existing dumping facilities at the Woodward Avenue Sewage Treatment Plant that had become outdated due to the Region's inability to monitor or control the dumped influent.

The station provides facilities for dumping of sewage and storm waste in a manner that ensures the influent is measured and monitored so the Region can exercise appropriate control. Tanker trucks empty their loads from grade into two below ground concrete tanks. When the influent is measured, it is transferred via two vertical chopper pumps to the existing Woodward Avenue plant for processing. The complete operation is automatic from when the tankers are admitted to the station to their exit.

The system also includes a card entry system for the drivers and a keypad for entry of load data. This information is automatically forwarded to the Region's SCADA system for processing.

The unattended facility, which is completely automated, includes ventilation and exhaust, scrubber, pumps, transfer of influent, wash down of below ground tanks, hazardous vapour warning and alarm system and card entry system for the drivers.

Catch basin waste is dumped into a third underground vault containing a custom designed trailer for draining, hauling and dumping the waste at local landfill sites.

The services provided by Byrne Engineering Inc. included:

  • Concept Development
  • Preplanning
  • Regulatory Approval Liaison
  • Engineering Design
  • Preparation of Contract Documents
  • Contract Administration
  • Construction Review
Municipal, Infrastructure & Institutional

Lowbanks Fire Station & Community Hall

Client: Haldimand County  |  Lowbanks, Ontario, Canada

Byrne Engineering Inc. was retained by the architectural firm of KNY Architects to provide engineering services for the Haldimand County Fire Station, located at 2633 Regional Road 3 East, Lowbanks, Ontario. The building has a fire station and a community hall and the total floor area will be approximately 6,880 ft2. The maximum occupancy will be 140 in the community hall and 10 in the fire station.

The fire station office areas and community hall are each heated and cooled by two indoor condensing type gas furnaces with DX cooling coils piped to outdoor condensing units. An energy recovery wheel is used to temper the outdoor air by recovering heat from the exhaust air. The apparatus room in the fire station is heated by two gas-fired two-stage combustion infra-red tubular heaters. An exhaust fan is provided in the apparatus room to remove CO2 and NOX products emitted by the trucks engine exhaust.

Low flow plumbing fixtures are used to minimize water use. The potable cold water is stored in underground concrete tanks and pumped by a booster pump set to deliver water at the required pressure to the fixtures. Hot water is generated by a gas fired water heater.

The sewer pipe from the building is connected to an underground concrete septic tank at the site. The septic tank is connected to an absorption bed through perforated distribution pipes.

The Apparatus Room is illuminated by means of six tube high intensity, energy efficient fluorescent fixtures. Four of these tubes are on one ballast and two are on the second ballast, providing low level entry lighting 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The remainder of the station has conventional high efficiency fluorescent lighting supplemented by dimmer controlled pot lighting in the Community Centre for use during dances or other social functions.

An emergency power system was supplied to provide basic HVAC and lighting. This scheme uses a portable generator and a manual transfer switch to allow for basic lighting and HVAC in the Community Centre and minimal lighting in the Fire Station. Byrne provided the complete engineering design for all structural, electrical, mechanical, HVAC, plumbing and emergency power requirements of the building.

Byrne provided the permit drawings and checked vendor as-built documents. Byrne will also provide construction assistance including site visits and field supervision.

Municipal, Infrastructure & Institutional

Materials Recovery Facility Demolition & Rehabilitation

Client: City of Hamilton  |  Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

The City of Hamilton Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) is located on Burlington Street at the Northeast end of Hamilton. The building was originally constructed by Firestone as a tire manufacturing facility and purchased by the City of Hamilton in the 1990s.

The City decided to convert approximately 270,000 ft2 into usable space with 112,000 ft2 of the facility to be used for the recycling operation, 88,000 ft2 used for storage and future operations and the remaining 70,000 ft2 to be used for future vehicle maintenance and storage.

Byrne Engineering was awarded the project as the prime consultant responsible for all aspects of the building's configuration and renovation including:

  • Demolition of 150 ft (83,000ft2) of the existing building, thus dividing the building into two, separate facilities
  • Constructing new access routes/ramps through the recycling area to improve site traffic conditions
  • Renovating and refurbishing the failing building components to current OBC standards
  • Improving and renovating 5,000 ft2 of office space

The project was designed and scheduled so that during demolition and reconstruction, all existing operations in the building were to continue with a minimum of disruption.

Byrne provided overall project management as well as structural, mechanical and electrical engineering services. Byrne assembled a team of professional partners to assist with the roofing, landscaping, storm water management, fire protection, LEED certification, geotechnical, soils and acoustical design requirements.

Byrne provided all design documents, permit applications, and prepared contract documents for the building construction. Byrne will also provide tendering assistance, field review of construction and contract administration services during the demolition and construction phase.

The total construction budget for this project was $7.1 Million and was completed in early 2009

Municipal, Infrastructure & Institutional

Structural Repairs to Burlington City Hall Tower

Client: City of Burlington  |  Burlington, Ontario, Canada

The City of Burlington had concerns about the condition of the City Hall Tower. It had been constructed approximately 30 years previously. Roof leakage and condensation in the walls had caused damage to finishes, corrosion of the anchors supporting the pre-cast wall panels and reduced insulation effectiveness.

Byrne Engineering was retained to conduct a study of the problems and prepare a report recommending solutions.

An inspection was undertaken to assess the condition of components. A detailed energy analysis was performed to determine optimum insulation and window types. Application of current building science technology resulted in recommendations for upgrading the structure. These were submitted to the City and subsequently accepted.

Byrne Engineering prepared contract documents for the repairs, assisted during the tender process and administered the construction work on behalf of the city.

Municipal, Infrastructure & Institutional

Rogers Communication Centre Rehabilitation & Retrofit

Client: Ryerson University  |  Toronto, Ontario, Canada

The Rogers Communications Centre (RCC) was built in 1991
and is Ryerson University's (RU) flagship building for studies
in converging communications and interactive media. The
RCC is Canada's premier facility for education in digital media communications and supports the schools of Fashion,
Journalism, Image Arts, Radio & Television Arts and Theatre.
The RCC is about design and research in a community
employing both current and advancing communications
technology.

In late spring of 2005, Ryerson University began planning for
the renovation of 20,000 ft2 of space in all three floors of the RCC. The work to be done included the demolition and
renovation of several classrooms, lectures theatres, editing
suites, offices, lounges, and newspaper and magazine editing rooms.

In early June of 2005, Byrne Engineering was chosen as a
partner to work on a design-build team of engineers, architects, general contractor and sub-consultants. Due to
the new school year starting in early September, it was
necessary that all renovations be complete by the end of
August. This extremely tight timeframe demanded a unique
“fast-track” approach to the planning, design and building
process.

While the architects developed the layout for the new rooms,
Byrne created demolition drawings so that the contractor
could begin removing the existing walls. Working in tandem
with the architects, in three weeks, Byrne developed
electrical, structural, mechanical, life safety and communications systems drawings for permit application.

During this project Byrne provided mechanical engineering
services by reviewing and balancing the HVAC system,
revising the sprinkler system, and adjusting piping where
required. Byrne designed the entire electrical power system
for the project including routing of all electrical cables,
lighting, security access & cameras and several new electrical
rooms. Due to the demanding audio/visual/networking
technology required by the programs in this building, Byrne
was also responsible for re-designing the communications
system for the entire building. Byrne also provided ongoing
site supervision of construction.

The $2.5 million dollar renovation was completed on time
and on budget with students moving into the new rooms in
early September.

Municipal, Infrastructure & Institutional

Building Design & Rehabilitation

Client: #  |  #, #, #

Achieve practical and economical support and solutions for your properties, by putting Byrne's expertise to work for you. For over 30 years, Byrne Engineering has served hundreds of clients including a large number of private corporations, non-profit housing organizations, condominium boards, property management companies, housing corporations and government at both the provincial and municipal level.

Our wide range of services includes Building Condition Assessments, Reserve Fund Studies, Technical & Energy Audits, as well as structural, mechanical or electrical inspections for any issues in your building. In addition to performing studies, we can also provide the Engineering Design, Specifications, Tender Support and Construction Supervision to help rectify any deficiencies that you may have with your building, or to support your building with enhancements. Projects are carried out under the direction of a Project Engineer assigned to coordinate all facets of the work. In this way, we endeavor to provide close client liaison and expedite work progress.

Building Design & Rehabilitation

Life Safety Retrofit Forest Glen Apartments

Client: Wentworth Condominium Corporation No. 9  |  Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Byrne Engineering were retained to conduct a review of the life safety systems for three high rise residential towers in accordance with Fire Code retrofit legislation.

As part of the study, deficiencies were noted and modifications designed to meet the requirements of the new legislation. Each modification was costed so that an implementation plan could be prepared to phase the work to suit the available Reserve Fund.

Contract documents were prepared for phased construction. The work included retrofitting or upgrading of sprinkler systems, fire alarms, voice communication systems, elevators, heat and smoke detection, door closures, fire separations, etc.

Byrne Engineering conducted the initial investigation; prepared contract documents, obtained competitive tenders for the work and provided technical review, contract administration and cost control during construction.

Building Design & Rehabilitation

Balcony and Guardrail Rehabilitation The Lighthouse

Client: Halton Condominium Corporation No. 72  |  Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Concern by a resident for the safety of a pre-cast concrete balcony guardrail resulted in an investigation by Byrne Engineering into the condition of all guardrails, anchorages and balconies of the 20 storey high rise residential building.

The investigation revealed significant deterioration of many anchorages and a report was issued recommending replacement of the guardrail.

In consultation with the building owners, it was decided to replace the pre-cast guardrails with a lightweight aluminum railing system with a glass infill panel. The style was selected to blend in with the remaining pre-cast units.

At the same time as the railings were installed, any deteriorated concrete on the balconies was removed and replaced.

Byrne Engineering conducted the initial investigation, prepared contract documents, obtained competitive tenders for the work and provided technical review and contract administration during construction.

Building Design & Rehabilitation

Underground Garage Repairs and Ramp Enclosure

Client: Metropolitan Toronto Housing Authority  |  Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada

The project commenced with a structural, mechanical and electrical evaluation of the existing underground garage. A complete survey was undertaken resulting in recommendations for repairs complete with cost estimates.

The garage roof slab was found to be deteriorated and requiring significant repairs to the concrete and replacement of the waterproof membrane. This also entailed removal and replacement of roadway, paths and other landscaping features.

The intermediate floor slab had also deteriorated. Repairs were required, including removal and replacement of all delaminated concrete and replacement of the traffic bearing membrane.

New ramp and stair enclosures for improved security were designed so that they did not result in overload to the existing structure. Lighting, fire safety systems and sprinklers were extended to service the new enclosures.

Byrne Engineering Inc. conducted the initial investigation; prepared contract documents for the work, assisted the Housing Authority to obtain competitive tenders for the work and provided technical review of the work during construction.

Building Design & Rehabilitation

Skylight Replacement Club Ennisclare ll

Client: Halton Condominium Corporation No. 114 & 129  |  Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Byrne Engineering was retained to conduct a study to evaluate the existing skylight unit located within the roof structure of the swimming pool club building serving the two 22 storey high-rise residential buildings comprising Halton Condominium Corporations No. 114 and 129.

Following submission of alternate proposals for replacement, Halton Condominium Corporations No. 114 and 129 requested that Byrne Engineering prepare contract documents for replacement of the existing bubble type skylight with a gable type glass enclosure.

Building construction consisted of an inverted roof system built over a cast-in-place concrete roof slab. A concrete parapet was located at the perimeter of the Club building and the existing skylight was mounted on a concrete curb or beam framing the roof opening.

Byrne Engineering provided Halton Condominium Corporation No. 114 and 129 with contract administration services during the construction work, including tender evaluation, shop drawing review and construction review.

Building Design & Rehabilitation

Balcony & Guardrail Rehabilitation Ennisclare II

Client: Halton Condominium Corporation No. 114  |  Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Byrne Engineering was retained to conduct a condition survey of balcony concrete slabs and steel guardrails for this 22 storey high-rise residential building. Halton Condominium Corporation No 114 also requested that the application of a traffic waterproof membrane be investigated to protect the concrete slabs. The membrane selection had to result in an aesthetically pleasing and durable surface. A Neogard traffic membrane was selected and a specification prepared which required concrete surface preparation to remove all finishing marks and swirls (grooves) resulting in a very smooth surface.

The finish coat of traffic membrane waterproofing was specified with a spatter finish to meet Halton Condominium Corporation No 114 aesthetic requirements.

Following the investigation and report phase, contract documents were prepared for rehabilitation of the concrete balcony slabs and steel guard railing and for the installation of the traffic waterproof membrane system selected.

To achieve the surface preparation requirements of the traffic waterproof membrane system as requested by Halton Condominium Corporation No 114, the concrete surfaces were ground down using power grinders. Working with Smid Construction Ltd., the work was accomplished and met the environmental requirements to the satisfaction of Halton Condominium Corporation No 114.

Byrne Engineering provided Halton Condominium Corporation No 114 with contract administration services during the construction work, including tender evaluation, shop drawing review and construction review.

Building Design & Rehabilitation

Transportation

Client: #  |  #, #, #

Byrne's work in transportation has spanned over 40 years since our inception. Utilizing our full service, multi-disciplinary capabilities, Byrne has delivered cost effective solutions to a wide variety of clients, both in Canada and overseas. Byrne is considered one of the leading industry experts in both fixed and movable bridges, as well as off-highway vehicles and vehicle performance measurement.

Byrne's expertise in the design of heavy transportation structures, and in particular movable bridges comes from our successful history in completing numerous movable bridge projects, covering a variety of bridge types, including: swing bridges, bascule bridges (single and double leaf) and vertical lift bridges. We provide structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering design services, as well as full service reviews, inspections, detailed design of appropriate repairs or upgrades, project management, construction support, commissioning and personnel training. We are well versed in implementation of reliable position sensing installations, and compiling thorough operator and maintenance manuals. Byrne supports two members (one of whom is Committee Chair) on the CSA Movable Bridge Sub-Committee.

The fixed bridge services offered by Byrne primarily include OSIM inspections and bridge rehabilitation. Byrne has worked on municipal bridge and culvert rehabilitation projects for a number of municipalities. Structural OSIM investigations of bridges are conducted to identify structural deficiencies with respect to applicable codes and standards.

Transportation

Burlington Canal Lift Bridge

Client: Delcan & Public Works and Government Services Canada  |  Burlington, Ontario, Canada

The Burlington Canal Lift Bridge has spanned the Burlington Canal, the only shipping channel between Lake Ontario and Hamilton Harbour, since it's opening in 1962.

The bridge span is raised on two towers located at each side of the canal. At the top of each tower is a machine house that contains the main span drive machinery. As the span is raised, a counterweight in each tower is lowered to maintain the bridge's balance.

The bridge requires continuous maintenance to ensure a reliable and safe operation. In partnership with Delcan International Corporation, Byrne Engineering has conducted mechanical inspections of the bridge each year since 1999. These inspections have included condition surveys of such components as wire ropes and sheaves, roller and journal bearings, gears, couplings and shafts. Based on our findings, Byrne Engineering presented recommendations for many repairs to maintain the bridge in good working condition.

Over its lifetime, there have been many modifications performed on the bridge and its operating procedures. The original operations and maintenance procedures had become out-of-date.

Byrne Engineering developed a new Operations and Maintenance Manual for the bridge. This new manual documents the normal operating procedures and how to deal with anticipated emergency situations. Also new maintenance schedules and repair logs were established.

Some of the bridge components have become obsolete or difficult to find on short notice. A new recommended spare parts list was created to ensure that in the case of an emergency, the bridge could be quickly repaired.

Byrne Engineering has established a relationship with Public Works & Government Services Canada to provide emergency engineering assistance should the need arise.

Transportation

Fixed Link to Toronto Island Airport

Client: Dillon Consulting Limited & Toronto Port Authority  |  Toronto, Ontario, Canada

The Fixed Link Bridge to Toronto Island Airport is a dual lane bridge that spans the Western Channel of the Toronto Harbour. It is to be operated (opened) only during the summer months to allow boat and ship access to the Toronto Harbour. The bridge allows commercial and passenger access to the Toronto Island Airport and it is expected that emergency vehicles will be able to access the remainder of the island in the future.

The new bridge is a double leaf bascule bridge constructed with four main girders per leaf. The girders have an approximate depth of 3.5m at the trunnion location. (The tubular trunnion of the bridge, which is the rotational point for the system, is 2.2m in diameter.) The bridge has a span length of 56m and weighs approximately 1000 tons.

To minimize the moving mass, a steel bridge grating deck was used. The spans were balanced with a composite concrete and steel counterweight to create a lower center of gravity for the system.

All the machinery was located in the piers or at the tail ends of the bridge for ease of maintenance. Two hydraulic cylinders per leaf were used to rotate the bridge on its axis.

When the bridge leafs lower for traffic, the bridge's operational stability is maintained by using hydraulic locking mechanisms at the nose and tail ends of the bridge, which are activated with PLC controls.

Transportation

Bermuda Longbird Swing Bridge

Client: Delcan International Corporation & Bermuda Ministry of Works  |  Bermuda, Bermuda, Bermuda

The Longbird Bridge serves as a link between St. David's Island, the home of Bermuda's International Airport, and the main island of Bermuda. As Bermuda's only link to the airport, the Longbird Bridge is of vital importance to Bermuda's tourist-based economy.

This historical structure is located at the east end of the Longbird Causeway adjacent to the airport. It is an asymmetrical bobtail type swing bridge and provides one navigation channel on its eastern side when open.

Due to a US military presence at the airport in the years prior to Byrne Engineering's involvement, NASA was responsible for the operation and maintenance of the bridge. During this period its condition deteriorated to the point that it became notoriously unreliable. When the responsibility for the bridge was transferred from the NASA to the Bermuda government, Bermuda decided to consider its options to improve the situation. Options considered included repair, and replacement the bridge with a new movable or fixed structure.

In 1998, Byrne Engineering undertook an inspection of the mechanical and electrical portions of the bridge, in conjunction with Delcan who carried out the structural portions. The inspections took into consideration the bridge's present and future viability, and various repair or replacement options.

Bridge mechanical components included gears, bearings, brakes, shafts, and wedges. Electrical items included power supply and distribution, submarine cables, motors drives, and control systems.

Byrne Engineering prepared a report recommending major repairs, modifications and improvements to mechanical systems and to electrical power and control systems to restore Longbird Bridge to reliable operation.

The Bermuda Ministry of Works & Engineering decided to follow Byrne Engineering's recommendations for mechanical and electrical systems. Byrne Engineering, in conjunction with Delcan International, was retained to carry out the design and to provide assistance during construction.

The renovations, completed in 2001, included conversion of the swing mechanism from an electromechanical system driving pinions and a rack gear, to twin hydraulic cylinders. The entire electrical power and control system was replaced including installation of modern PLC based controls.

Transportation

Indian River Bascule Bridge Bridge Upgrades 2003-2009

Client: District of Muskoka  |  Port Carling, Ontario, Canada

The Port Carling Bridge is a single bascule bridge traversing Indian River at Road 118 in Port Carling, Ontario. As is true for most movable bridges, this is a vital link for the residents and tourists of the area. It opens to allow passage of both recreational and commercial vessels.

 

The bridge leaf pivots on a trunnion located on the south abutment. This is also the location of the machinery and controls. The bridge is constructed with two main steel plategirders and an orthotropic steel deck. The drive train consists of numerous gear boxes and a final drive gearbox that drives a pinion gear along a circular rack.   

 

Project Management
For all rehabilitation and upgrade projects, Byrne provided total project management services to ensure that each project was completed on schedule. Byrne’s project management services include: contractor evaluation & selection, tender administration, cost control, construction support, commissioning & demobilization services.

 

Electrical upgrade
Byrne has designed and implemented multiple electrical upgrades including: the installation of a wireless communication link between the PLC’s on either side of the bridge, variable frequency drives to control the leaf and the locking of the bridge, electrical surge protection and the implementation of remote monitoring to enable remote online assistance with any control problems.

 

Mechanical upgrades
Byrne was retained to provide all engineering services, contract administration and construction support for the replacement of the gearbox and associated structure. The project was awarded to the contractor and completed in the spring of 2008 prior to the 2008 navigation season. Byrne prepared specifications for the new gearbox and sought out an appropriate manufacturer. Byrne also provided similar engineering, contract and construction support for the replacement of the toe locks (nose locks) and associated support structure. The project wasawarded to the contractor and completed in the spring of 2009, two weeks ahead of schedule.

 

Structural upgrades and replacements
Byrne was retained to inspect the deteriorated roadway deck of the bridge to determine its condition. Based on this inspection, it was decided to completely replace the roadway surfacing. Byrne provided all engineering, contract and construction support to complete the structural rehabilitation of the bridge in the spring of 2009.

 

 

Road deck upgrade
Byrne studied the available paving materials and systems to determine the best choice for resurfacing - an asphalt mastic composition material.

 

Bridge Balancing & Commissioning                                                   

As a result of the upgrades to the bridge, re-balancing of the bascule span was required. During a scheduled road closure the span was weighed and balanced to ensure that it was within design limits. Byrne provided commissioning services to re-commission the bridge after each major upgrade.

 

Roadway gate replacement
Byrne was retained to inspect the deteriorated roadway gate system of the bridge to determine its condition.Based on this inspection, it was decided that the most cost effective solution was to completely replace the hydraulically operated gate system with four new electromechanical driven roadway gates.

 

"We are extremely pleased with the work done by Byrne. The result is we have a good bridge with drawings that reflect exactly what is there," Noel Waters, Director of Roads and Waste Management for Muskoka, says. "We were familiar with Byrne from earlier work and we have a good working relationship with them. They have always kept the District's interest foremost."

Transportation

Swing Bridge over the Rideau Canal

Client: Environment Canada (Formerly Parks Canada)  |  Merrickville, Ontario, Canada

There has been a movable bridge over the Rideau Canal at Merrickville, Ontario since the canal was built in Victorian times. When a new bridge was required, one of the challenges facing Byrne Engineering Inc. was to design a modern structure that blended into the historic surroundings.

The solution is a bridge that is wider than the original for practical purposes but, to the casual observer looks the same. All exposed concrete utilized in the abutments is stone clad.

The asphalt roadway conceals an orthotropic steel deck over the canal and a reinforced concrete deck at the counterweight end. Two hydraulic cylinders cause the bridge to rotate.

Two other cylinders wedge the bridge in place when open to road traffic. All moving parts and controls are mounted on the ground to eliminate the maintenance problems of bridge-mounted components.

The contract included the approach roads, new pier and abutments as well as specification of the diversion road over the canal during construction.

Transportation

Product Development & FEA Introduction

Client: #  |  #, #, #

Byrne specializes in the development of new concepts for special purpose machinery and equipment for various industries. Innovative product design and optimization solutions are ensured by utilizing our Concept Development Process, and the latest in ProEngineer & Solidworks, 3D Solid Modeling Techniques, and Finite Element Analysis (FEA).

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a technique used extensively in new product design, or existing product refinement. This tool allows for solutions to complicated models, not just in structural analyses, but also for a wide range of phenomena including steady state or dynamic temperature distribution, shock, vibration, and fatigue. The analysis includes a geometric model of a material design that is loaded, constrained, and analyzed for specific results. Byrne has completed numerous structural and thermal analyses where transient and steady state cases were investigated.

Product Development & FEA

Ground Support Equipment

Client: MacDonald Dettwiler Space and Advanced Robotics Ltd.  |  Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

The Remote Manipulator Systems Division of MacDonald Dettwiler is responsible for the design and production of three advanced solar array systems for the European Space agency L-SAT project.Two flight sets of solar arrays will be manufactured. When deployed in space from a satellite, the solar arrays collect solar energy to power the satellite. In order to test the solar array, space conditions can be partially simulated by means of a thermal vacuum chamber. This chamber will simulate the temperature and vacuum conditions encountered in space; however, all ground testing must include means of support for space hardware designed to function in a zero gravity environment. Components of the mechanical ground support equipment included such items as:

  • Solar array deployment rig
  • Deployment track support
  • Solar array support dolly
  • Stowed away handling dolly
  • Spacecraft sidewall simulator
  • Tip tensioning, thermal vacuum and ambient performance test rig

The electrical ground support equipment included the design of such items as:

  • Solar array test control centre
  • Deployment control console
  • Xenon flash systems
  • Infrared scanner system
  • Tip tensioning mechanism
  • Thermal vacuum test rig controller

Byrne Engineering was selected by Spar to design mechanical and electrical ground support equipment to meet the test program requirements prior to flight.

To simulate solar radiation as the system, under flight conditions, moves out of the earth's shadow, Byrne Engineering designed an infrared test rig for placement in the thermal vacuum chamber.

A successful test program was conducted using the thermal vacuum chamber at the David Florida Laboratory, Communications Research Centre, in Ottawa. This facility is part of the Department of Communications of the Government of Canada.

Product Development & FEA

Hydraulic Drill Shock Absorber

Client: Vale Inco Limited Mines Research  |  Copper Cliff, Ontario, Canada

This client, a division of Vale Inco Limited, designs and develops automated mining equipment. To protect up hole equipment from the vibration generated by percussive drilling through hard rock, they determined that a shock absorber to attenuate the vibrations would be required.

Services provided by Byrne Engineering involved:

  • Literature and state of the art review
  • Develop design/operating parameters
  • Computer simulation to determine optimum spring rates, damping coefficients, mass, etc.
  • Concept Development
  • Laboratory Testing/Simulation of both "springs" and "splines"
  • Detail design and drawings
  • Manufacturing/fabrication Assistance
  • Field testing and analysis
  • Documentation and Scheduling

The spring/damper had to transmit the thrust force over the complete operating range, accept impact loading and attenuate the steady state vibration at the drilling frequency (22 Hz). The device also had to transmit torque, since the drill is rotated as it hammers. Investigations were undertaken of different means of transmitting torque without bypassing the force path. Success is hinged on obtaining a low friction contact using special polymers and lubrication.

The design and detailing of the shock absorber was undertaken using the solid modeling program, Pro/ENGINEER.

Byrne oversaw fabrication of the shock absorber and directed field-testing of several prototype designs. The final design has been incorporated into another Mines Research project that requires isolation of sensitive components in the drill string above the drill.

Product Development & FEA

Mast Climbing Platform Dolly System

Client: Klimer Manufacturing  |  Hornby, Ontario, Canada

Klimer Manufacturing commissioned Byrne Engineering to develop a dolly system to transport the Mast Climbing Platform from its work position beside the worksite, to the transport position on a flatbed trailer. The original design for the Mast Climbing Platform was developed at Byrne Engineering.

This design required a series of development steps to arrive at the final product as illustrated in these ProEngineer models. Several steps in the design were issued with the contract and the complete platform was modeled and incorporated into the design to ensure fitting issues and proper operation.

The system was geared to be capable of transporting the fully loaded platform system up an incline of 30°. Two chain driven hydraulic motors were chosen to provide the power required to the wheels. A four-to-one gear reduction system was determined to provide adequate margin over the maximum loading of 24,000 lbs up the 30° incline. Other design developments included pick up and attachment to the platform system. A pinned system of adjustable beams assures quick change and simplified adjustments. The dolly's hydraulic motors will be powered by the existing hydraulic system onboard the mast climbing platform unit.

Services provided by Byrne Engineering included:

  • Literature and Regulation review
  • Develop design/operating parameters
  • Simulation to determine clearances
  • Concept Development
  • Detail design and drawings
  • Manufacturing/fabrication Assistance
  • Documentation and Scheduling
Product Development & FEA

Finite Element Analysis

Client: Klimer, Nu-Tech, District of Muskoka & Advanced Design Solutions  |  Gravenhurst, Ontario, Canada

Byrne Engineering Inc. (Byrne) utilizes 3-D solid modeling for many engineering applications and product design. Finite element analysis (FEA) is used to check the stresses, strains, loading characteristics and natural frequencies of these models. Byrne has used Pro/ENGINEER modeling software and the Pro/ MECHANICA finite element analysis module for several years now and has performed FEA for many of our clients.

A few of the projects in which FEA has been employed include investigation and analysis of load rating and natural frequency for bridges, mezzanines, axles, stackable racks and bins, hydraulic cylinders and systems and large structures.

Byrne employs the very latest versions of the software. Our Pro/ENGINEER and FEA operators are well trained and continually updating their skills. Our employees come from a variety of backgrounds including space component design and automotive and truck design and manufacturing.

The hardware used to power these applications is state-of-the-art and continuously upgraded to handle the considerable computing power required to run millions of calculations and iterations required by a complex FEA model.

Byrne has also assisted clients in the design and development stage of a mast climbing work platform and hydraulic system to raise and lower large ship arrestor booms on the Welland canal.

Recent product design projects have included the design and analysis of plastic thermostat housings, medical rolling casters, stackable rack and bin systems and a robotic weld cell mezzanine.

Product Development & FEA

Ship Arrestor Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Client: The St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation  |  St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada

Byrne Engineering Inc. (Byrne) was engaged by the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (SLSMC) to review and analyze a new ship arrestor design for the Welland Canal. A ship arrestor is a large mechanically or hydraulically activated steel boom that suspends a massive 3.5-inch steel cable rope across the canal. In the event of a ship losing braking power, the ship will be slowed and stopped by the rope and a large mechanical clutch system.

The ship arrestor analysis was a complex project due to potential loading conditions. Although other engineering firms suggested that the SLSMC's design was excessive, Byrne's analysis revealed that it was suitable to the task with a proper allowance for the safety factor. This design proved to be an excellent candidate for a finite element analysis.

Six load cases were developed to blanket the arrestor arm and wire rope operation. The loss of control of a fully loaded lake freighter under power would be a catastrophic event on the lock doors; therefore, the full restraint power of the wire rope had to be utilized.

This project was an excellent opportunity for Byrne to demonstrate their capability in large-scale finite element analysis (FEA). Byrne has utilized Pro/ENGINEER modeling software and the Pro/Mechanica finite element analysis module for several years and performed FEAs for many of our clients.

Byrne's Pro/ENGINEER and FEA operators are well trained and continually updating their skills. Our employees come from a variety of backgrounds. This software requires the most powerful computers to operate it efficiently. Byrne has made the capital investment to provide the client with a very competitive rate.

The St. Lawrence Seaway Ship Arrestor project required a fully committed FEA project engineer for a six-week period.

Product Development & FEA

Heavy Industrial & Manufacturing

Client: #  |  #, #, #

With over forty years of Heavy Industrial & Manufacturing expertise, Byrne excels in creating custom made solutions to meet industry's unique needs. We have served clients in industries ranging from steel making, mining and automotive to food processing and power generation with project sizes ranging from $100 thousand to $100 million in value.

Our scope of services includes all levels of project delivery from conceptual design through project management to turn-key final commissioning. We also provide Technical Investigations, Feasibility Studies, Analysis of Failure, Quality Assurance Services and Pre-Start Health & Safety Reviews.

Our broad client portfolio includes industrial sector leaders such as: Xstrata, Vale Inco, ArcelorMittal Dofasco, U.S. Steel, MAN Diesel, Lafarge and Hostess Frito Lay, as well as municipal and federal clients including: Department of National Defence, Public Works & Government Services Canada, and Agriculture & Agri-food Canada

In addition, we offer expertise in the following areas:
Pre Start Health & Safety Reviews

Pre Start Health & Safety Reviews

Pre Start Health & Safety Reviews (PSR) impacts your bottom line by reducing hazards which lead to a safer, more efficient and therefore more productive and profitable workplace. A PSR must be completed with any new or modified equipment that meets the criteria of the table found in Section 7 of the Regulations. Included with each PSR is a report that outlines the process completed, and indicates any non-compliance indentified, with the measures necessary to ensure compliance.
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Mining

Mining

The mining industry utilizes all engineering disciplines and Byrne has the resources to supply quality services in the structural, mechanical and electrical departments. Byrne's engineers have gained extensive experience in the mining sector from working on numerous and diverse projects above and below ground level with the major Nickel refineries in Sudbury, Ontario. Services have been provided to major mining companies such as Vale Inco (since 1980) and more recently Xstrata Nickel and FNX Mining Company Inc.
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Pressure Vessel Registration

Pressure Vessel Registration

Over the last 14 years Byrne has aided many major Pressure Vessel Manufacturers throughout North America and Europe, in getting their designs registered across all provinces in Canada. Our services include the registration for a wide variety of pressure vessels, registration of piping systems and seismic analyses, using conventional methods or finite element analysis, on pressure vessels or associated equipment.
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Steel Manufacturing

Steel Manufacturing

Byrne personnel collectively have more than 120 man-years of experience in steel manufacturing, covering engineering and process design for new facilities, major upgrades to existing process lines, maintenance including planning and execution of major downturns, and operations. Our personnel have extensive knowledge of bar processing, hot rolling, cold rolling and galvanize operations and are fully capable of providing custom services for machine design and process upgrades involving mechanical, electrical and structural project and design services.
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Water Treatment

Water Treatment

Since 1980, Byrne has provided engineering services for structural and mechanical components of Water Treatment Facilities in North America. The scope of services ranges from customized stress analysis to the structural and seismic analysis of assembly prototypes, membrane system supports, platforms, carbon and stainless steel membrane tanks, clarifiers, screens, lifting devices, anchoring systems and equipment skids among others. Our portfolio includes leading suppliers of liquid separation technologies for municipal wastewater treatment facilities and water treatment process system solutions such as Eimco Water Technologies and GE zenon Water and Process Technologies.
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Aluminum Die Casting

Aluminum Die Casting

The Die Casting Machine (DCM) is a high technology system using a maximum of automation and sophisticated control equipment to produce metal castings. Casting Plants use these machines to manufacture a variety of aluminum and magnesium products including automotive parts, consumer goods, etc.

The 'heart' of the system or cell is the Die Casting Machine itself that rapidly injects molten metal into steel dies and holds it there under high pressure while the metal solidifies. The DCM has many moving parts and incorporates a complex high-pressure stored energy hydraulic system. Modern Die Casting Machines are computer controlled and programmed to automatically proceed through their cycle. Other components in the cell such as the ladler, extractor and sprayer and cooling system are also programmed to automatically cycle with the movement of the DCM. Most systems also incorporate a power press to remove the flashing from the cast product.

Byrne Engineering has provided design, installation and safety related services to several manufacturers using these products, increasing the reliability and safety of these systems, reducing downtime and improving efficiency.

Heavy Industrial & Manufacturing

Jaw Crusher Rehabilitation & Installation

Client: Vale Inco Limited  |  Copper Cliff, Ontario, Canada

Vale Inco wanted to replace the existing crusher being used in the casting/crushing building. Byrne Engineering Inc. (Byrne) was retained to oversee the rehabilitation of the crusher and to provide mechanical and structural engineering services including all necessary labour, material, equipment and services for the installation of a refurbished Traylor Jaw Crusher.

The existing crusher and related components had to be removed prior to the installation. The exit chutes that lead to the conveyors were also removed. Any material that could be salvaged was recycled and used during the new crusher installation.

Byrne provided engineering design and manufacturing and construction oversight to the following activities to ensure a successful crusher rehabilitation and installation:

Removals:

  • Removed and dismantled existing crusher and related components (drive motor etc.);
  • Removed discharge chutes to conveyors.

Mechanical:

  • Installed all drive components for crusher;
  • Designed and implemented all safety guarding near the drive motor and drive belt areas as per regulations in place;
  • Installed pads and anchor bolts for crusher mounting;
  • Installed drive cooling system and crusher lubrication system.

Structural:

  • Designed and installed new structural supports for intake and exit chutes;
  • Modified the existing foundation to provide clearance for new crusher.
Heavy Industrial & Manufacturing

Pre-Start Safety Review of Robotic Pallet Loading System

Client: Paper Products Producer  |  Burlington, Ontario, Canada

The client is one of the largest manufacturers of paper and plastic containers in Southern Ontario and had recently purchased a new robot pallet loader.

Byrne Engineering Inc. was retained to advise the client on whether a Pre-Start Safety Review was required under Section 7 of the Regulations for Industrial Establishments.

Upon review of the machine and associated documents it was determined that a Pre-Start Safety Review was required. The first phase of the project included the following activities:

  • Visit the site, examine and document all machinery guards, perimeter fencing, passive and active safety devices,
  • Document all potential hazard,
  • Meet with and discuss the unit with the Joint Health & Safety Committee and the Maintenance Department,
  • Obtain machine data including the manufacturers' operating and maintenance manuals, hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical schematic drawings,

The information collected was then reviewed and evaluated against the applicable codes and standards such as:

  • The Ontario Fire Code
  • The Ontario Building Code
  • Ontario Electrical Safety Code
  • Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations for Industrial Establishments
  • Other codes and standards as deemed applicable to this industry

The final report prepared by Byrne identified all deficiencies with a reference to the code or standard involved. It also included drawings, schematics, and photographs to assist in the process of ensuring the unit could be safely operated and met all the requirements of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act. Finally, the report listed recommendations for the appropriate actions required to deal with the deficiencies and bring the equipment into compliance with the applicable codes and standards.

Heavy Industrial & Manufacturing

Piping System Registration

Client: Steris Finn-Aqua  |  Tuusula, Finland, Finland

Byrne Engineering Inc. (Byrne) has executed a number of projects for Steris Finn-Aqua consisting of preparing documents for registering pressure vessels with the various provincial and territorial authorities.

Steris produces pre-piped skid mounted equipment for integration into their client's processes. The Multiple- Effect Still provides ultra pure water for use in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The output from one distillation column is fed into subsequent columns. The result is extremely pure water.

Due to the demanding standards for producing the equipment, it is assembled and piped in Steris' facility in Finland and then shipped as a complete unit. The piping on this unit must be registered with the authorities such as Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) of Ontario.

Piping systems for registration in Canada must be produced using components and fittings that are registered in Canada. That is, all fittings must carry their own CRN numbers. In the case of foreign supplied or custom parts, this can often mean that each component must be registered at the time the piping system is reviewed.

Byrne will assemble all the necessary information for registration of a piping system including a process and instrumentation diagram and general arrangement drawings. Byrne will then review and check, to ASME standards, the pressure vessel calculations as provided by the client, make applications to the authorities, respond to any questions, and process any permitting fees.

The end result of registration is the issuance of a CRN or Canadian Registration Number for the vessel. This permit is mandatory for all jurisdictions in Canada.

Heavy Industrial & Manufacturing

Thickener Tank Structural Assessment

Client: Vale Inco Limited  |  Sudbury, Ontario, Canada

Byrne Engineering Inc. (Byrne) was retained by Vale Inco to assess the structural integrity of the support system for several thickener tanks.

Byrne staff reviewed drawings and previous studies of the area prior to field work. An engineer conducted an initial site visit to gain an overall impression of the condition and to plan for any non-destructive testing and material testing that might be required.

The team worked closely with Vale Inco to provide all information, including methods of testing and a list of work required by Vale Inco. At each thickener tank, Byrne conducted a visual inspection of:

  • Thickener shell
  • Bridge trusses
  • Drive supports
  • Miscellaneous walkways
  • Foundation walls
  • Tunnels

Byrne staff worked in conjunction with sub-consultant Trow Associates to investigate the geotechnical stability of the structure.

Leakage from the thickeners was a concern so Byrne staff reviewed data from previous drop tests. In order to determine the condition more accurately, Byrne monitored a drop test in thickener 5A.

After closely analyzing the results from the inspection, Byrne engineers assessed where repairs were required. The team discussed and selected with Vale Inco Limited the most effective and efficient repair system. In addition, Byrne provided preliminary cost estimates for the various repair alternatives.

Heavy Industrial & Manufacturing

Reactor Pneumatic Feed Systems & Dust Contaminate Conveyer

Client: Vale Inco Limited  |  Sudbury, Ontario, Canada

Byrne Engineering Inc. (Byrne) was retained by Vale Inco to make revisions to the Pneumatic Feed System & Dust Contaminate Conveyor in order to reduce emissions of coke dust from the MK Reactor Feed Bins and Coke Bins.

New bin vents were installed that better handled pressure fluctuations from the pneumatic feed system and thus minimize dust emission from the bin vent access doors.

After inspection, it was found that the MK Concentrate Bin Vents were adequately sized. However, the filter bags were difficult to maintain as they are pillow-style bags which are difficult to remove. Vale Inco preferred to use cylindrical-style dust collector bags made by Wheelabrator.

Byrne performed the project in phases in order to ensure that the production process was not affected.

Byrne provided engineering design, process design, project management, construction administration and oversight for:

  • Demolition and removal of existing bins
  • Relocation of existing cable and conduit runs above the Coke Bins
  • Supply and installation of structural support legs for the new bin vents on the Coke Bins
  • Cleaning, repair and reconnection of compressed air lines to the new bin vents as well as providing new lines and fittings as required to suit the new tie-in point
  • Reconnection of existing power cables to the solenoids for the coke bin vents and supply and install new power cables to the solenoids for the two new MK Reactor Feed Bin Vents
Heavy Industrial & Manufacturing