Heavy Industrial Projects
See how Orbital supports heavy industrial facilities in developing projects, executing work, and managing essential industrial assets.
Chemical Plant
Specialty Chemical
Scope of Work
- Project included the installation of two new reactors into an existing enclosed facility
- Laser scanning was conducted to collect field data for the 10-level existing facility
- One new reactor was tied into the existing DCS system with the other reactor expected to be tied in at a later date
Deliverables
- Navisworks model, general arrangement drawings, piping plans and isometrics
- Steel drawings for supporting the new reactors, piping and conduit
- Instrument location plans, wiring diagrams, loop diagrams, instrument datasheets
- Scope of work documents for construction
Project Highlights
- Laser scan data supported constructability reviews and definition of demolition needed to lower the 2 new reactors through the roof and down to level 3.
- Total Installed Cost (TIC) – $3.2MM
Natural Gas Processing
Natural Gas
Scope of Work
- Demolition of existing natural gas storage well metering and withdrawal dehydration systems at two adjacent sites, reconfiguration of existing system at one of the sites and tie-in of all wells to new dehydration, metering and pressure regulation
- In addition to multi-discipline engineering for all disciplines, Orbital supported procurement activities through bid reviews, technical bid evaluations and vendor document reviews
Deliverables
- Process Design Basis, PFDs and P&IDs,
- Revised Site Plan incorporating changes for storm water runoff and drainage, fencing and landscaping
- Navisworks model, general arrangement drawings, piping plans and isometrics
- Foundation and steel drawings for supporting the new equipment and buildings
- Single line diagrams, power plans, duct bank and cable tray plans, lighting plans, grounding plans, cable & conduit schedules, lightning protection design, panelboard schedules
- Instrument location plans, wiring diagrams, loop diagrams, instrument datasheets
- Scope of work documents for demolition and installation
Projects Highlights
- Orbital adapted to client request to change dehydration technology early in the project and dehydration location mid-project due to permitting constraints with minimum impacts to overall schedule. All dehydration, metering, pressure regulation and waste stream storage and transfer was housed in a single Operations building.
- Total Installed Cost (TIC) – $10MM
Feed Impurity Removal
Specialty Chemical
Scope of Work
- The objective of this project was to remove the oil and grease from the incoming feed flow that is utilized throughout the plant’s operations
- With these impurities being removed prior to the feed entering the Strippers, it improved the efficiency of the production at the site
- Project included installation of two oil storage tanks and six pumps with containment with all interconnecting piping, steel and supports
- A raised MCC structure on piles and a concrete pad supported transformer was added to the east of the main project area to supply power for the project and a new Delta V Cabinet with HMI was located in the new MCC building
- The existing truck parking was relocated to the northeast along with connecting existing roadways to allow for a different exit path
- New surveillance cameras were integrated with an existing camera network located at gate to the East of the proposed parking location
- Full electrical scope included adding a 13.8kV feeder, 13.8kV/480V transformer, substation building, 480V motor control center, VFD’s, UPS, panels, control stations, lighting, grounding, and associated cable tray/conduit and cables
Deliverables
- Revised site plan
- Navisworks model, general arrangement drawings, piping plans and isometrics
- Piping, foundation and steel drawings for supporting new tanks, pumps, MCC, transformer and piping
- Grading plans, sections and details for new roadway and parking lot
- Material requisition packages for major electrical equipment – 13.8kV switch, 13.8kV to 480V transformer, substation building, 480V MCC, UPS System
- Single line diagrams, power plans, duct bank and cable tray plans, lighting plans, grounding plans, cable & conduit schedules, area classification drawings
- Instrument location plans, wiring diagrams, loop diagrams, instrument datasheets, control narratives
- Scope of work documents for construction
Project Highlights
- Maintenance work was minimized significantly as a result of the project, decreasing downtime while increasing productivity.
- Total Installed Cost (TIC) – $120MM
Reactor Heating Process Improvement
Specialty Chemical
Scope of Work
- Orbital performed process evaluations and cost estimating for several solutions to add a new heating source to an existing reactor to allow for additional product formulation
- Following completion of FEL-2, Orbital proposed a turnkey offering for the new heat exchanger and auxiliary system upgrades to achieve the project objectives
- Orbital acted as prime for the EPC project with a mutually trusted field contractor for the client
Deliverables
- Process Design Basis and P&IDs
- Material requisition package for the new heat exchanger
- Navisworks model, general arrangement drawings, piping plans and isometrics
- Foundation and exchanger support structure steel drawings for supporting the new heat exchanger
- Scope of work documents for installation
Project Highlights
- Installation and commissioning were completed in 10 days due to thorough constructability planning and pre-outage construction activities.
- Total Installed Cost (TIC) – $5MM
Asset Management Program for a Steel Mill Client
Steel
Scope of Work:
- Supported a major steel client in the development and ongoing evolution of their corporate asset management program
- Provided technical assistance in creating the original corporate inspection procedure and supporting subsequent revisions
- Applied decades of hands-on inspection experience across structural and mechanical assets at domestic and international facilities
- Defined and refined inspection and reporting processes used across the client’s enterprise
- Coordinated and supported field inspection operations to align with corporate standards and safety requirements
- Integrated emerging technologies and digital tools to enhance inspection efficiency and data management
Deliverables:
- Corporate inspection procedures and revisions
- Digital inspection data outputs supporting asset tracking and long-term program management
- Standardized inspection and reporting frameworks, including:
- Defined inspection levels
- Standard reporting formats
- Means and methods documents for individual assets
- Documentation protocols
- Boundary documents
Project Highlights:
- Orbital played a foundational role in building and evolving the client’s corporate asset management program, applying decades of inspection experience to create practical, safety-focused procedures adopted company-wide. Standardized inspection levels, reporting formats, and documentation protocols improved consistency and reliability across domestic and international operations. Through ongoing inspection programs and the integration of advanced technologies such as UAS inspections and digital data management, Orbital continues to drive continuous improvement. This long-term collaboration has helped modernize inspection practices while supporting OSHA/ANSI compliance and the client’s reliability-centered maintenance objectives.
OH-Crane, Crane Runway and Building Inspection
Steel
Scope of Work:
- Performed a comprehensive technical inspection of an industrial building, crane runway system, and overhead bridge crane at a major manufacturing facility
- Verified structural integrity of building framing and crane runway support systems
- Assessed condition and alignment of crane rails, runway beams, and associated structural components
- Conducted a full OSHA/ASME-compliant overhead crane inspection during a single coordinated site mobilization
- Deployed a multidisciplinary team of structural inspectors, scanning technicians, and certified overhead crane specialists
- Utilized aerial lifts, top-side runway access, and Elios 3 caged drone technology for difficult-to-access areas
- Performed alignment verification using Total Station surveying methods
- Applied visual, hands-on, and targeted non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques
- Executed mechanical, structural, electrical, and functional testing of overhead crane components
- Provided real-time notification of critical or out-of-service safety findings
Deliverables:
- Structural inspection findings for building framing and crane runway systems
- OSHA/ASME-compliant overhead crane inspection report
- Runway alignment measurements, including elevation, sweep, span, and cross-levelness data
- Severity-ranked deficiency listings with tagged photographs and measurement documentation
- Conceptual repair sketches for identified structural and runway deficiencies
- Preventive maintenance, repair, and long-term monitoring recommendations
- Integrated inspection report capturing all findings from a single mobilization
Project Highlights:
- Orbital delivered a fully integrated, multi-discipline inspection of an industrial building, crane runway, and overhead crane system in a single site mobilization, minimizing operational disruption and eliminating the need for multiple specialty contractors. By combining structural inspection, advanced scanning, precision alignment verification, and OSHA/ASME-compliant crane evaluation, Orbital provided a complete system-level assessment of both structural and mechanical performance. The inspection identified runway alignment deviations, localized structural corrosion, and typical crane component wear, allowing Orbital’s engineering team to develop prioritized repair recommendations and conceptual solutions. This project highlights Orbital’s ability to deliver efficient, technically rigorous inspection programs that support safe, reliable crane operations in complex industrial environments.
Bridge Inspection and Turnkey Repairs
Power Generation
Scope of Work:
- Performed a comprehensive inspection of a ~1,000-foot suspension bridge spanning a major waterway
- Utilized ground-based, elevated walkway, and rope-access techniques to evaluate hard-to-reach areas
- Benchmarked findings against prior inspection reports to identify changes and new deficiencies
- Classified deficiencies by priority level to guide repair urgency and scope
- Performed engineering analysis and developed Standard Repair Procedures (SRPs) for identified deficiencies
- Coordinated access constraints, including railroad scheduling, live powerline limitations, and follow-up inspections
- Executed turnkey repair construction for the north half of the bridge, including demolition and repairs
- Provided construction coordination, safety planning, and on-site quality oversight
Deliverables:
- Phased inspection reports as segments of the bridge were completed
- A repair prioritization ranking assigned to each finding
- Standard Repair Procedures (SRPs) and engineering repair IFC drawings for Priority 1 deficiencies
- Construction coordination and quality assurance documentation
- Final inspection report and repair verification records
Project Highlights:
- Orbital delivered a comprehensive inspection and turnkey repair program for a 1,000-foot suspension bridge, combining rope-access inspection, structural engineering, and construction oversight to address complex access and safety challenges. The inspection identified 43 deficiencies, including multiple Priority 1 conditions such as widespread cracked welds, severe section loss in a primary truss chord, and extensive concrete spalling with exposed reinforcement. Orbital executed phased reporting to support timely decision-making and completed full demolition and repairs on the north half of the bridge. When lead-containing coatings were discovered mid-demolition, Orbital paused work, coordinated with regulatory agencies, and implemented a revised, compliant construction plan – allowing repairs to resume and conclude efficiently while maintaining safety, regulatory compliance, and structural integrity.
API 653 Tank Inspection and Floor Replacement
Specialty Chemical
Scope of Work:
- Performed an out-of-service API 653 tank inspection, including a Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL) floor scan
- Evaluated tank floor condition and investigated MFL indications using ultrasonic thickness testing (UTT)
- Documented and marked areas approaching T-minimum for repair
- Developed API 653–compliant engineering designs for complete tank floor replacement
- Designed modifications to accommodate relocation of multiple tank shell nozzles
- Defined non-destructive examination (NDE) requirements associated with repairs
- Provided on-site quality assurance and quality control oversight throughout all phases of construction and repair
- Verified completion and documentation of all corrective actions
- Prepared and issued final inspection documentation confirming fitness for service
Deliverables:
- API 653 out-of-service inspection report
- MFL floor scan results and UTT verification data
- Detailed API 653–compliant repair drawings for full floor replacement
- NDE procedures and inspection requirements
- Quality assurance and quality control oversight documentation and repair verification records
- Final inspection report confirming safe, compliant return to service
Project Highlights:
- Orbital executed a comprehensive API 653 inspection and major repair program for a 99,500-gallon storage tank, identifying floor corrosion risks through advanced MFL scanning and targeted ultrasonic testing. Early detection of low-thickness areas approaching T-minimum allowed Orbital to design proactive repairs before loss of containment could occur. The project required complete tank floor replacement and the relocation of multiple shell nozzles – complex modifications successfully delivered through Orbital’s integrated inspection, engineering, and quality assurance and quality control oversight. The repairs restored the tank to a safe, compliant operating condition, extended its remaining service life, and reduced the client’s risk of unplanned outages and future repair costs.
Product Storage and Transfer
Specialty Chemical
Scope of Work
- Project added two storage tanks, transfer pumps, load out structure with scales
- Orbital executed laser scanning and plant 3D model development of the new infrastructure in the existing facility
- Orbital supported procurement activities through bid reviews, technical bid evaluations and vendor recommendations, vendor document review and delivery expediting
- Supported local authority permit application and interfaces during design and construction phases
Deliverables
- Process design basis, PFDs and P&IDs
- Material requisition packages for tanks, pumps, agitators and filters
- Revised site plan
- Navisworks model, general arrangement drawings, piping plans and isometrics
- Piling plan, foundation plans and structural steel drawings
- Single line diagrams, power plans, lighting plans, grounding plans, cable & conduit schedules
- Instrument location plans, wiring diagrams, loop diagrams, instrument datasheets, control narratives
- Scope of work documents for construction
Project Highlights
- New design added additional flexibility in facility operations in allowing for product loading at two separate truck areas and rail. Unloading capabilities and new raw material storage facilitated the ability to manufacture new product desired in market.
- Total Installed Cost (TIC) – $5MM
Railroad Loading Stations
Specialty Chemical
Scope of Work
- Project added six new sulfuric acid railcar loading stations to the existing chemical facility
- The additional stations and gangways were added along with new piping, pumps and instrumentation for facility operations
Deliverables
- Navisworks model, general arrangement drawings, piping plans and isometrics
- Steel drawings for extension of the existing loading area and moveable gangways to accommodate railcars of different sizes
- Single line diagrams, power plans, conduit plans, lighting plans, grounding plans, cable and conduit schedules
- Instrument location plans, wiring diagrams, loop diagrams, instrument datasheets
- Scope of work documents for installation
Project Highlights
- Railcar logistics drastically reduced costs over existing tanker transport means.
- Total Installed Cost (TIC) – $8MM
Black Liquor Storage Tank
Specialty Chemical
Scope of Work
- Project included facility addition of a field fabricated tank, pumps, rake and new MCC building
- Orbital executed detailed design and supported procurement activities through bid reviews, technical bid evaluations and vendor recommendations, vendor document review and delivery expediting
Deliverables
- Material requisition packages for tank, pump and new MCC building housing new electrical equipment
- Revised site plan
- Navisworks model, general arrangement drawings, piping plans and isometrics
- Foundation and steel drawings for supporting the new tanks, piping and cable tray
- Single line diagrams, power plans, cable tray plans, lighting plans, grounding plans, cable and conduit schedules
- Scope of work documents for construction
Project Highlights
- Alternate foundation design proposed in the early FEL stages of the project resulted in savings of over $500,000 to the client.
- Total Installed Cost (TIC) – $12MM
Emergency Response Support – Critical Failure
Steel
Scope of Work:
- Responded to an emergency inspection request following a critical failure at the Pipe Bridge end panel connection
- Performed on-site damage assessment after debris accumulation led to moisture intrusion, deterioration, and structural failure
- Deployed an emergency response team to collect field data and evaluate the condition of the truss system
- Analyzed structural distress across the Pipe Bridge, including overstressed members and failed connections
- Designed temporary shoring and permanent repair solutions
- Provided construction-phase engineering support through restoration and return to service
Deliverables:
- Emergency inspection and condition assessment findings
- Structural calculations evaluating end reactions and overstressed members
- Temporary field support and shoring designs
- Detailed repair packages for permanent restoration
- Construction support and oversight documentation
Project Highlights:
- Orbital’s rapid emergency response following a critical Pipe Bridge failure minimized risk and accelerated recovery for a facility experiencing prolonged operational disruption. The team assessed extensive structural distress within a 384-foot truss system, identifying hundreds of overstressed members and extreme end reactions approaching one million pounds. By quickly designing temporary support systems and permanent repairs, Orbital restored structural integrity and returned the Pipe Bridge to service. The successful execution of complex field repairs, including extensive welding and construction oversight, demonstrated Orbital’s ability to manage high-risk structural failures under demanding conditions.
Water Intake Modification
Steel
Scope of Work
- Evaluate options for compliance with the EPA Clean Water Act section 316(b) for intake structures
- Upon option selection, executed engineering services for integrating the new solution into the existing 100-year-old pump house
- Orbital performed detailed engineering required to support construction of the new intake technology modifications and supported procurement activities through bid reviews, technical bid evaluations and vendor recommendations, vendor document review
- Orbital provided construction management onsite through the demolition and installation activities as well as provided review of contractor field submittals for shop steel detailing and concrete
Deliverables
- Material requisition packages for all equipment and bid packages for all contractors
- P6 schedule development for entire project through commissioning
- Site plan including underground piping and excavation
- Equipment mounting installation details
- Navisworks model, general arrangement drawings, piping plans, sections & elevations
- Foundation and steel drawings for supporting the new intake system, piping and electrical infrastructure
- Single line diagrams, power plans, MCC drawings, lighting plans, grounding plans, cable & conduit schedules, conduit routing plans, panelboard schedules
- Instrument datasheets, I/O list, instrument index, control system narrative, control system architecture drawing, wiring drawings
- Scope of work documents for demolition and construction
Project Highlights
- In review of regulations, Orbital proposed solution to establish compliance by lowering velocity rather than installing fish return which saved client approximately $13MM over originally conceived client options.
- Total Installed Cost (TIC) – $20MM
N2 Feed Gas Compressor Replacement
Oil and Gas
Scope of Work
- Replaced existing feed gas compressor with a new compressor in same location
- Scope included process, piping, structural, electrical and instrumentation design activities
- Design considered pipe spooling to the maximum extent and shutdown planning for MCC modifications
- Orbital led constructability reviews to identify lifting locations and equipment staging areas for the quick turnaround window
Deliverables
- Revised P&IDs and general arrangements
- Piping plans, sections & elevations, isometrics
- Structural pipe supports drawings, compressor skid anchorage and grouting details
- Single line diagrams, cable & conduit schedules and grounding plan
- Schematic wiring diagrams, instrument list and instrument installation details
- Scope of work documents for construction
Project Highlights
- Successfully completed compressor replacement with minimal downtime. The existing compressor was demolished, and new compressor was installed and commissioned in same location in just 4 days.
- Total Installed Cost (TIC) – $2MM
