PEMB Hangar Upgrades

Structural Steel HVAC Upgrade at Vandenberg SFB Hangar

The Vandenberg Space Force Base Hangar upgrade required a custom HVAC retrofit to support the operational needs of an aerospace client. To accomplish this, Precision Construction Services was enlisted to engineer, fabricate, and install three new structural steel supports designed to hold the upgraded HVAC system. These supports needed to be elevated 15 to 25 feet above the hangar floor and precisely fitted into wall bays divided by existing steel columns.

Precision managed every aspect of the steel scope, coordinating shop drawings between the HVAC contractor and the structural engineer to ensure alignment and efficiency. The fabricated supports were built using W8x18 and W8x10 beams, complete with newly engineered connections tailored to the building’s needs. Before installation, Precision performed isolated demolition to remove existing structural elements and modified the hangar’s original columns. All work was reviewed and approved by the Pre-Engineered Metal Building (PEMB) provider to maintain structural integrity.

Throughout construction, Precision adhered to strict safety protocols, including a comprehensive Job Hazard Analysis plan. This plan required fire watch during all welding activities and fall protection for crews working at height. Due to the client’s ongoing operations within the facility, work was performed during off-hours to minimize disruption. Protective measures were also installed to safeguard surrounding workspaces and sensitive equipment.

The Vandenberg SFB hangar upgrade was successfully completed in early 2019. Precision delivered a durable, precisely engineered solution that met the project’s technical demands while maintaining safety, schedule, and operational continuity for the client.