Services
Cold-Formed Steel Design
We are your partner from frame to finish
Cold-formed steel (CFS) framing engineering is a complex discipline that requires the expertise of consulting engineers specializing in both structural framing and nonstructural component systems. Salas O’Brien, with over 20 years of experience in consulting engineering for CFS framing, is among the few firms that excel in this field. Our designs couple structural integrity with tailored detailing to meet the needs of your project from frame to finish.
Faster completion and more predictable costs through advanced technology solutions
When speed-to-market is crucial, we offer advanced technology CFS solutions including panelization, prefabrication, and modular structures.
The critical path for typical building construction is linear until the core and shell phases are complete, as only the structural trades can progress. Using prefabricated CFS wall panels and/or modular structures speeds up the time it takes to dry-in facilities, allowing all interior trades to begin their work sooner and reducing core and shell construction time by up to 40%. This approach reduces waste, site labor, and construction time while producing a higher-quality product with more predictable costs.
Cold-Formed Steel Design Projects
What we can offer
From initial consultation through construction and closeout, Salas O’Brien offers an array of cold-formed steel (CFS) engineering design services. Our decades of experience provide increased integration and reduced project complexity and risk.
Interior CFS design
Salas O’Brien’s expertise includes interior partition walls and mezzanines, to create functional spaces within the structure. Shaft walls and suspended ceilings are designed for practicality and seamless integration, with acoustic clouds offering enhanced sound management. The team also delivers specialized supports for medical equipment and operating room lighting, addressing the unique demands of healthcare environments. Ancillary structures and equipment supports round out the services, providing tailored solutions to meet diverse project needs.
Exterior CFS Design
Salas O’Brien’s focus includes structural component framing and multi-story bearing walls, offering strength and stability for various building types. The team also specializes in seismic anchorage to enhance resilience and equipment supports and dunnage to accommodate critical infrastructure. Soffits and architectural features are carefully engineered to maximize framing and connection efficiency while providing support for aesthetic cladding and architectural vision for both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Panelization
CFS wall panels are versatile and can be used in a wide variety of interior and exterior applications. Salas O’Brien recognizes the unique detailing and erection challenges in transitioning traditionally designed structures to panelization for improved scheduling and quality benefits.
Prefabrication and metal structures
Salas O’Brien’s expertise extends to the prefabrication of wall panels, bathroom and office pods, patient room headwalls, corridor racks, skids, and other ancillary structures. Our designs enhance efficiency, increase speed to market, and meet tight construction site restrictions.
Prefabrication of other components
Salas O’Brien’s expertise extends beyond wall and floor panel prefabrication to bathroom and office pods, patient room headwalls, corridor racks, skids, and other ancillary structures. Our designs enhance efficiency, increase speed to market, and meet challenging site and tolerance limitations.
LOD 400+ fabrication models & drawings
Integrating LOD 400+ fabrication models and drawings can further improve your construction schedule. Our services include individual panel or module sheets with a comprehensive bill of materials complete with labeled and dimensioned members used for fabrication and assembly, enhancing efficiency and reducing site labor and waste.
