They performed extremely well, on schedule and on budget. Most importantly they coped with changes and rework without any fuss and were able to minimize the extra claims that flowed from those changes.

Universal Drafting worked on Alcoa’s $600M Pinjarra Upgrade as Structural Steel Detailers after winning 50% (the biggest % of any detailer on the project) of the detailing on best price and past good performance.

That performance was based on completing the Jamaican $30M Residue Upgrade with a faultless effort while coping with American steel sections and working in Imperial Units.

On the latest project, the Pinjarra Upgrade, they performed extremely well, on schedule and on budget. Most importantly they coped with changes and rework without any fuss and were able to minimize the extra claims that flowed from those changes. In other words they ‘cut some slack’ to the Engineers and Designers of the project and, as a result, became an integral part of the overall project team. They joined in the process with calm and professional manner even when the project team came under extreme pressure.

Universal’s Managing Director Geoff Osborne personally led the detailing effort and was found to be very ‘hands on’ and thorough in his approach and leadership. A friendly and co-operative team all round. Apart from detailing one 1400 Tonne building Universal’s total project detailing Tonnage was 2,700. 

I would highly recommend Universal for any structural steel detailing needs.

By John Higgie
Project Structural Engineer for Alcoa’s $600M Pinjarra Upgrade
Acting Alcoa Structural Technology Leader
Former Lead Structural Engineer of Alcoa Hatch Alliance (3 years)