The platform built at this location made it difficult to operate a valve. I was asked to modify the platform by removing half of it and building a set of stairs or a ladder to get down to the floor level. This would make operating the valve easier.

Before Pictures:

I decided to build a set of stairs to access the floor as stairs would make the descent easier than a ladder would.

My first step was to decide where to modify the platform and come up with a design for the stairs within the area I had to work with, which was quite small.

Measurements were taken and I began to design the stairs, which needed to be built within certain specifications to meet the building code. Once I completed my design I verified it with the originators of the work order.

I then began fabricating the stairs, which I made out of steel grating. It was easier for me to fabricate the stairs in the shop and then take them to the work site. Once the stairs were complete, I modified the existing platform by zip cutting it apart. In some places I needed to torch cut pieces to remove them because the grinder would not fit in the location. However, I had to be very cautious with any sparks in the area. I used welding blankets and a fire watch were used to prevent any chance of starting a fire.

Once I removed half the platform, I relocated the legs and welded them onto the piece of the platform that was still there. Then I made a few more modifications and additions to the platform to enhance its strength.

Finally, with the help of a mechanic, we installed the stairs; I decided it would be best to bolt the stairs onto the platform so they could be removable in the future. We also concrete-anchored the stairs to the floor, as well as the legs of the platform, to keep everything in place. This made it sturdier.

After Pictures:

I was asked to fabricate a burn pan for the fire crew to use during their extinguisher training. I was given the measurements to make a 3’ x 3’ pan with a 2-inch edge. Two handles were needed on opposite sides for transportation purposes.

I cut out a 3’4” x 3’4” square out of 1/8” steel sheet, followed by 2” squares out of each corner. I half cut the steel along the 2” edge with a zip disc, which acted as a fold line and allowed a 90-degree bend. Once this was completed, I folded up the 2” lip on all four sides and welded all the seems to seal them. Then I fabricated two handles out of 3/4” steel rod and welded these handles onto the tray to complete this project.

This was a fun job to get to work on. I really enjoy working with aluminum and Tig Welding, so I was pretty excited to begin this job.

The Mechanical and Electrical crews both requested that I fabricate some tool boxes for their crew members. The ones they’ve been using are older wooden ones starting to fall apart.

I sketched  the design for the tool boxes with measurements and got approval to begin fabrication. I used a shear to cut the aluminum sheet, taking into account all the measurements so as to use the sheet as resourcefully as possible without wasting a lot of material.

I wanted a specific shape for the side panels, so I sketched  a design and traced it directly onto the material. Then I cut the shape out using a zip disc and cleaned up all the sharp edges using a flap disc.

When I had all the pieces I needed  I began to tack them together. I took the inside measurement of the box and cut aluminum tubing for the handle. After tacking the handle into place, I welded up all the boxes.

The crews wanted their department name on the box, which was GRME for electrical and mechanical. I carved the lettering into the box to be used as a guideline to weld over. After welding the names in, I cleaned up the sharp edges and polished all the welds and the handle.