With previous satisfactory experience with hot-dip galvanizing, the designers were confident galvanizing was the perfect solution to protecting the massive about of steel required for this project.

Walter Pyramid - Galvanized Fabricated Tube Steel and Pipe Structures
Walter Pyramid - Galvanized Fabricated Tube Steel and Pipe Structures

Case Study from | Valmont Coatings

Year Galvanized
1994
 
Reasons for Galvanizing
Aesthetics, Coating Durability, Corrosion Performance, Initial Cost, Life-Cycle Cost, Prior HDG Experience, Quality of HDG, Sustainability, Turnaround Time
 
Components Galvanized
Fabricated tube steel and pipe structures with plate.
 
Architect
Gibbs & Gibbs
 
“The galvanized structural configuration has performed flawlessly and there have been no maintenance requirements or operational issues since erection”Mark Zakhour, Construction Services Manager
 
In the early 1990s, Long Beach University began designing an impressive new collegiate sports facility. They conceptualized a mathematically true pyramid; to make the Walter Pyramid become one of only three in the United States. The unique design required 500 tons of fabricated tube steel and pipe that intricately bolted together forming an immense internal structure. The framework would remain exposed providing intriguing views from any angle within the arena.
 
When life-cycle costing this project, designers took into account a multitude of factors including longevity, sustainability, aesthetics, moderate initial costs. Couple with previous satisfactory experience with hot-dip galvanizing, the designers were confident galvanizing was the perfect solution to protecting the massive about of steel required for this project. With a reputation of high-quality results and technical expertise, Valmont Coatings® Calwest Galvanizing was selected galvanize the steel fabricated for the structural framework.
 
After 25 years in service, Valmont Coatings collected coating thickness measurements to evaluate the performance of the galvanized coating. The sample readings averaged 4.20-6.88 mils, exceeding the ASTM requirements for newly galvanized steel. This ensures the structure will remain protected for decades more to come.
 
Mark Zakhour, Construction Services Manager, at Long Beach State University stated “The galvanized structural configuration has performed flawlessly and there have been no maintenance requirements or operational issues since erection. The building serves as a pinnacle landmark for all of Southern California.”
 
Cameron Ungar, Associate General Manager, Walter Pyramid-Director of Event Services stated, “In my time at Long Beach State University and the Walter Pyramid, I have submitted work orders for all sorts of building systems and equipment. However, I have never submitted a work order for the building framework. It has been a worry-free building component while also servicing as an awe-inspiring building feature here at the California State University, Long Beach campus."
 
The strength of hot-dip galvanizing has once again proven its worth, protecting the structural integrity of this architectural masterpiece for many additional decades to come.
 
 
The content & opinions in this article are the author’s and do not necessarily represent the views of ManufacturingTomorrow

Comments (0)

This post does not have any comments. Be the first to leave a comment below.


Post A Comment

You must be logged in before you can post a comment. Login now.

Featured Product

Get RFQs on Die Casting, Stamping, and Extrusion With Xometry, Your Source for Custom Parts

Get RFQs on Die Casting, Stamping, and Extrusion With Xometry, Your Source for Custom Parts

Xometry is your source for custom parts. Now, in addition to getting instant quotes on 3D Printing, CNC Machining, Sheet Metal, and Injection Molding, customers can create and send RFQs for die casting, stamping, and extrusion work to our nationwide network of pre-vetted manufacturers with just a 2D drawing. You will receive and be able to review responses from qualified shops within 7 days on an advanced web-based RFQ management platform. To learn more go directly to our site to issue and RFQ today. Stop wasting time managing RFQs through email and by phone, and start issuing RFQs at scale and in the cloud.