64" Pipeline Design & Installation Support

Overview

This project involved supporting the design and installation of a 64" diameter pipeline in coordination with the installation contractor, surveyor, and a 3D scanning provider. My role focused on refining the pipeline geometry based on updated site data and producing accurate fabrication-ready pipe lengths and alignment adjustments.

Issue & Engineering Approach

The initial design was based on legacy survey data, which was found to be inaccurate once field conditions were verified. This created a risk of cumulative fit-up errors across the pipeline due to tight coupling tolerances.

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To address this, the design was updated using high-accuracy 3D scan data and field verification in coordination with the surveyor and installation contractor.

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The process involved:

• Integrating updated survey and 3D scan data into the design model

• Refining pipe lengths, slopes, and support locations based on as-built conditions

• Iteratively validating geometry through multiple field scan campaigns

• Coordinating design adjustments with installation sequencing

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A total of four different scans were used to progressively refine the installation:

• Initial design validation, routing and lengths

• Post pour confirmation of footing and support locations

• Post-installation verification of installed pipe sections

• Final confirmation of angles and lengths for remaining tie-in sections

Design & Coordination Updates

Given the tight installation tolerances, each pipe segment required precise fabrication control:

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• Pipe sections were detailed to exact cut lengths based on verified field geometry

• Slope and alignment were adjusted to match actual installed conditions

• Support locations were refined to match as-built structural constraints

• Coordination with the contractor ensured installability within sequence constraints

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Each pipe joint required careful control due to coupling tolerances of ±3/16" and 0.35° angular misalignment.