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WIPP-Nuclear Waste Facility

The WIPP US Department of Energy nuclear waste disposal facility required a new storage building HVAC and fan cooling system designed. JBW was hired to create the design for the site construction mechanical contractor. The work was to be completed in a seismic zone with requirements for operability even after a seismic event. The new installation of ductwork, piping, and process equipment was required to meet the design standards and rules of construction for the state and the US government. The design required detailed knowledge of the hierarchy of the standard documents and specifications to determine controlling features of overlapping concerns to make the installation a robust design. Key relationships between ASCE, ASME, SMACNA, USDOE standards, and the state building code need to be followed. Resolving the competing rules for piping and supports was a key factor in analyzing the best installation and operation methods.

JBW designed the piping and supports throughout the entire facility, integrating the new masonry building with new structural components where necessary. The existing facility was scanned in 3 dimensions and computer-modeled; the components were electronically placed within the modeled building. JBW first performed structural analysis using RISA software for all pipe and duct supports and attachments to the building. Then, the piping stresses were modeled using Autopipe software and applied back into the structural analysis. Next, an iterative review was performed to verify the stresses and loads were all within the allowable seismic movements. JBW prepared structural plans, mechanical piping plans, mechanical duct plans, and BIM tracking of components for the installation. The calculation packages were submitted with the plans to the US Department of Energy to verify compliance with seismic vibration, stress loading, and movement. JBW performed construction support and evaluation during the project, ensuring proper installation.

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  • Nuclear

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