Problem: KLAW Industries was expanding production capacity and adding a pneumatic conveying system, both of which required a substantial supply of clean, dry compressed air. However, the factory lacked the space for the equipment.

Solution: I led the construction of a 1,500-square-foot building addition and installation of a 150 HP air compressor, 2,000 gallons of compressed-air storage, and an air dryer. The project was completed for less than $50,000, with eight weeks of my time and one junior engineer.

Steps Taken

1) Determine System Requirements - Established compressed-air requirements, including flow rate (CFM), pressure, and moisture levels, through internal equipment testing and supplier consultations..

2) Design Building Addition - Led the design of the 1,500-square-foot addition, considering property boundaries, equipment dimensions, soil conditions, wind and snow loads, and construction costs. Worked with contractors to develop a practical, cost-effective design.

3) Select Contractor - Contacted more than x10 contractors, conducted x6 site visits, checked references, and negotiated pricing and terms before selecting a contractor.

4) Construct Concrete Foundation - Designed the concrete foundation myself and coordinated our internal team to prepare and pour the pad, reducing contractor costs.

5) Procure and Install Equipment - Sourced used equipment through ebay & facebook markplace to minimize capital costs. Created the equipment layout in CAD, marked installation locations, and rented a telehandler. Advance planning allowed us to complete equipment installation in one day. 

6) Complete Building Addition - Coordinated with contractors to finish construction of the building addition around the installed equipment.