Civil Engineering Archives - Page 2 of 8

5 top tips for staying safe on the job site

As civil and structural engineering professionals, we spend a lot of time working with construction and contracting professionals. We spend a lot of time on job sites and consistently find ourselves in potentially dangerous situations. This is why proper safety on a construction job site is so important for all parties to observe.

Those who work in construction as licensed contractors have an important but potentially dangerous job. Construction sites are rife with opportunities for construction workers to injure themselves. This is particularly true for new workers or those who are not aware of construction site risks. Certainly, some accidents are more serious than others. But any accident is bad, no matter how small or non-existent the injury. Jobsite injuries cause contractors to lose income. It could also negatively impact their reputation when it comes to finding new work.

That’s why, in the spirit of safety, we wanted to take a moment in our latest blog post to examine job site safety. Here are your top tips for staying safe on a construction job site.

1. Wear the right clothing and gear.

One of the easiest ways to ensure safety on the job is to ensure you’re wearing the right clothing, including shoes and hard hats. This may seem like common sense to many, but far too many accidents happen because the worker was not wearing the right gear. Construction professionals must always keep gear at the front of their minds so that they do not forget something important. Construction contractors should always have the appropriate shoes or boots that are reinforced, as well as adequate head protection with a safety helmet. They should also come to the job with eye gear and gloves. And if your employer does not offer these items, it’s time to have a chat with the boss. That’s because not providing workers with appropriate gear could be an OSHA violation. Yikes!

2. Lift heavy objects properly.

It’s not uncommon for construction contractors to suffer from random aches and pains after a long day at a job site. And yet, some of this pain can be avoided provided they’re lifting properly. Always take extra care when lifting or moving heavy objects. You want to make sure you bend at the knee rather than using your back. This prevents added pressure on your joints, shoulders and/or neck. You also want to make sure you minimize the twisting of your body when moving heavy items and make sure your body is properly grounded beforehand. These may seem like simple tips, but they go a long way to preventing an unnecessary injury that can result in a medical leave.

3. Pay attention to weather conditions.

Weather is an important factor in any construction job. Even the most seasoned contractors experience can experience injuries when the weather is bad or blustery. If you’re operating machinery on the job site, the weather is an even more important consideration. Crane operators, for example, must take the weather into account before beginning their day. Construction workers should take extra time going up and down ladders and wear the appropriate weather gear if the weather is bad. Always keep the weather in mind when you get to the job site.

4. Keep your work area clean.

Unclean work areas are the norm in the construction sector, but they shouldn’t be. Cluttered work areas can cause unwanted delays and even contribute to slip and fall injuries. Sure it may take some extra time, but it is worth it. You need to be sure to clear your work area before beginning work and set an example for your fellow construction professionals. This may involve cleaning up spills, drying out spaces where electrical work may be done or removing waste. A clean project area can drastically reduce the chance of injury.

5. Safely use your ladders.

Construction professionals use ladders every day on the job site. This is probably why ladder-related injuries are so common in the construction sector. Make sure you understand all OSHA rules before climbing a ladder. Take care to follow guidelines every time and use a spotter to make sure you’re steady on the ladder. Avoiding ladder injuries is simple when ladders are grounded and stable before use. Avoid rushing and take your time to ensure you don’t suffer from a ladder injury.

Each of these safety tips for construction contractors helps to reduce the potential for injuries on the job. But more than that, they also decrease other unrelated issues when it comes to job site safety. These issues could include workplace injury claims or OSHA violations. That is why it is so important that you take the time to review these safety tips before starting the next project. You want to make sure all of your workers are doing everything possible to prevent unnecessary injuries. Safety is everyone’s business, after all.

What’s the difference between civil and mechanical engineers?

You’ve heard of them, but what makes them different? While civil and mechanical engineers do have some overlap, their jobs are both unique. While they both work in the design and construction field, the projects that these engineering disciplines work on are quite different. That’s why we wanted to highlight each of these disciplines and explain the differences between the two. Let’s first take a look at civil engineers.

What do civil engineers do?

On a construction job, a civil engineer’s primary job function includes the following:

Planning
Designing
Building
Maintaining
Operating

Civil engineers are responsible for ensuring public safety and environmental health in a construction project, no matter the type. Civil engineering is considered one of the oldest engineering specialties because humans have been building structures since we could stack two blocks on top of one another. The jobs civil engineers are generally called up for include, but are not limited to the following:

Roads
Railroads
Airports
Bridges
Harbors
Canals
Dams
Irrigation
Pipelines
Power Plants
Sewage Systems

Some civil engineers also have a special area of focus, which can include architecture, water resources and construction forensics. They are generally called upon to design plans for projects, analyze maps and surveys and monitor construction jobs. They may also play a project management role.

Civil engineers must consider the environmental impacts of the jobs they work on and use advanced software systems (such as BIM) to create and implement designs. They must review and understand all local regulations and order and analyze soil, concrete, steel, wood, and/or asphalt. Finally, they oversee infrastructure maintenance and repairs and create estimates and budgets for projects. This could include anything from materials, labor or equipment budgets.

What do mechanical engineers do?

As you can see, civil engineers have a big job to do! And yet, mechanical engineers also have a lot on their plate. If civil engineering is considered one of the oldest engineering disciplines, mechanical engineering is considered one of the broadest. Mechanical engineers must understand a wide array of sciences and principles, including, but not limited to:

Materials Science
Engineering Physics
Arithmetic
Mechanical Systems
Thermodynamics
Structural Analysis
Electricity

Like civil engineers, mechanical engineers also use a wide array of software programs such as CAD and CAM to complete their work. They also work very closely with architects, other engineers, project managers, and other construction and job site professionals. They work on both device and structural designs. Some of the projects mechanical engineers work on could include:

Manufacturing Facilities
Industrial Machinery
HVAC Systems
Transportation Networks
Infrastructure
Aerospace
Robotics
Medical Devices

As you can see, mechanical engineers don’t just work on construction job sites. They can be found in research labs, manufacturing hubs, ports of entry, and many more locations.

Some of the job aspects mechanical engineers must oversee include reviewing design plans and changing designs to remove flaws if any are found. They are also closely involved with developing and testing prototypes, managing a device’s manufacturing process, and finding ways for mechanical processes to solve problems.

Educational requirements for civil and mechanical engineers

As with any engineering discipline, both civil and mechanical engineers need to obtain a minimum four-year bachelor’s degree. Once they have obtained their degree, they must then take a state engineering exam to obtain their license. But the subjects they study and the degrees they earn differ widely.

Once civil and mechanical engineers obtain their degrees and pass their engineering exam, they then move on to receive on-the-job training through internships, apprenticeships and trainee programs. To become a senior civil or mechanical engineer, they must pass additional exams and demonstrate advanced knowledge of their discipline.

The skillsets required for civil and mechanical engineers also differ. Civil engineers generally follow a clear path for working on projects. Their projects are clearly laid out ahead of time and do not require a lot of creativity or innovation. Mechanical engineers, on the other hand, must use their creative skills to create complex designs and solve problems using mechanical processes.

The difference between work environments and project types

Civil engineers usually spend most of their time on-site supervising projects and traveling between job sites. They also collaborate more with architects, regulators, project managers, and urban planners. Mechanical engineers generally work with other engineers, such as civil and electrical engineers and project managers.

Another difference between the two includes the time it takes for their projects to complete. Civil engineering jobs generally take a long time to complete. Their projects are also generally quite large in scale. Mechanical engineers could work on big or small-scale projects; they could include everything from huge structures to tiny tools.

Here’s another way to look at the difference between disciplines. Civil engineers work on the structure itself, whereas mechanical engineers work on individual systems of the structure.

Here at McNeil Engineering, our civil engineers bring many years of experience to the table. If you have a job that requires engineering professionals with a vast wealth of experience, contact us today! (801) 225-7700

A closer look at our service offerings

When it comes to your next big build, McNeil Engineering has the services you need to get the job done right. We offer a wide array of engineering services, landscape architecture, project management, and more. That’s why we wanted to take a moment in today’s blog post to highlight each of the different construction project verticals we work in. Join us, and learn more about what we offer!

1. Civil Engineering

Civil engineers do a lot more than just design buildings and bridges. They work in many industries, from aerospace to automotive. Civil engineering is an exciting profession because, at the end of the day, civil engineers get to see the results of all their hard work. Whether it is a completed bridge or a gleaming new high-rise building, the fruits of their labors are visible in the material world.

There are also different categories of civil engineers and sub-disciplines. Transportation engineers represent one such sub-discipline. They work on roads, railroads, subway systems, and airports. Civil engineering has also evolved over the years. Some disciplines have faded away or transformed into something else. Sanitary engineering, as one example, has now evolved into environmental engineering.

Our civil engineering design services include:

Land development services
Site feasibility studies and due diligent analysis
Site layout
Road design
Grading design and earthwork analysis
Drainage analysis and storm drain system design
Stormwater detention system analysis and design
Erosion control measures & SWPPP
Water system analysis and design
Sanitary sewer system design
Subdivision design
3D models
UDOT access and encroachment permits
Permitting and Entitlement assistance with cities, counties and state agencies

2. Structural Engineering

In some circles, structural engineering is its own discipline and in other circles, it is a branch of civil engineering. Whatever you believe, one true thing is that structural engineering involves the application of the laws of physics, mathematics and empirical knowledge to design the basic elements of man-made structures.

Modern-day structural engineers work with a large and detailed body of knowledge. They must accurately predict the performance of different shapes and materials used in structures and measure load stresses. Structural engineering has also been around for thousands of years, with principles of the discipline being used to build everything from the Great Pyramids at Giza to the Roman Coliseum.

Our structural engineering services include:

Constructability analysis
Seismic analysis
Force protection blast analysis and design
Alternative designs for construction cost and time savings
Structural analysis, design, specifications and construction documentation
Field observation and construction management
Reinforced, precast tilt up and prestressed concrete
Precast concrete production, transport and erection
Post-tension concrete design
Steel, masonry and timber design
Construction products and materials development
Structural investigation and reports
Structural damage and failure analysis
Repair, re-strengthening and retrofitting of structures
Crane design & analysis
HUD permanent foundation analysis
Fire and disaster investigation and analysis

3. Laser Scanning and Land Surveying

Many big construction and infrastructure projects include a laser scanning or land surveying component. Here at McNeil Engineering, we focus on conventional laser scanning and surveying services. We are also a leader in Utah in laser scanning, which puts us at the cutting edge of the service. Our land surveying services include:

ALTA/NSPS land title surveys
Topographic/ utility surveys
Route and boundary surveys
Construction staking
GIS data acquisition
Cadastral and retracement surveys
Subdivision plat
Condo plat

Our laser scanning services include:

Transportation
Horizontal and vertical construction
Forensics/Insurance investigation
Historic preservation
Industry
Mining
Survey

Deliverable modalities include:

Archival point cloud models
2D CAD drawings,
3D CAD/BIM models

4. Landscape Architecture

Landscape architecture is different from landscaping itself. Consider landscape architects as the structural engineers of our environment. It involves the actual design of the landscape as it relates to the natural environment it exists in. It could be anything from a town square to a pond or playground. Landscape architecture is dedicated to the design of healthy environments and communities, and to protecting the health, safety, and welfare of people.

Our landscape architecture services include:

Site design
Master planning
Irrigation design
Landscape design
Plaza and paving design
Grading and drainage plans
Site and landscape remodel
Cost estimating and budgeting
Construction administration
Permitting and city approvals
Illustrative and graphic design
Signage and gateway design

5. Roofing, Paving and BIM

If you are building a structure in Salt Lake City or any other city in Utah, you’re going to need a roof and likely paving of some type. We focus on sustainable planning and design and use only the most modern materials in our roofing and paving jobs.

We’re also Building Information Modeling (BIM) specialists. BIM is a process for creating and managing construction project information throughout the project lifecycle. BIM allows engineers and construction professionals to create a digital description of every aspect of the build. BIM allows for the creation of information-rich 3D models and associated structured data.

We’re proud to employ professionals in each of these fields that wield many decades of experience in their fields. Whether you need a civil engineer or roofing professional, we’ve got the dedicated individuals you need to get the job done right the first time, every time. Contact us today to learn more.

Advances in engineering continue to reshape the discipline

Engineering is a vital and ever-changing discipline. At McNeil Engineering, we offer civil engineering, structural engineering, roofing, paving and landscape architecture services for companies and municipalities all over Utah. But we also closely follow all sorts of updates and innovations in the engineering sector. Sure, civil and structural engineering are our specialties, but what are some of the big advances occurring in engineering today? It’s fascinating stuff, which is why we wanted to take a closer look at our latest blog post.

So, what did we do? We conducted a thorough research regarding the latest scientific advances in the engineering field. It could civil, structural, electrical, or otherwise. We just find this stuff so cool. Advances in engineering of all types greatly interest us. Let’s get started!

Scientists Use DNA to Overcome Materials Engineering Obstacles

Scientists at the University of Virginia School of Medicine and other researchers have successfully used DNA to create superconducting materials. And while this advance is in the field of materials engineering, it will have a big impact on our sector as well since a lot of the big engineering and construction tools we use require advanced semiconductors to function properly. Now, what’s the big breakthrough?

Superconducting materials and substances have been the holy grail for electric engineers and material scientists for a long time. So, what are superconducting materials? Superconducting materials will have no electrical resistance. Electrons will simply flow with no friction, which in turn means the material will not create heat. Today, modern forms of electrical transmission create heat, thus degrading its performance.

The big advance here is in the use of carbon nanotube lattices. These are hollow cylinders that are literally a few atoms thick. They are so small they’re measured in a billionth of a meter. Previously, scientists struggled to control the chemical reactions that assembled the nanotubes. With this breakthrough, scientists used DNA sequencing to control the carbon nanotube modification reaction sites. As computer scientists and molecular genetic engineers continue to advance this process, expect to see faster, smaller and more efficient computer chips appear because of it.

Shifting to More Sustainable Bricks

Here’s an interesting breakthrough that very much relates to civil engineering, structural engineering and construction overall. It involves creating bricks out of polymer waste materials instead of mortar and cement. Why is this important? Consider that firing bricks and making mortar and cement is very costly and not quite sustainable from an environmental perspective. Now, organic materials chemists are working on sustainable alternatives to the good old-fashioned brick.

Instead of using the aforementioned materials (mortar and cement), scientists have focused on building materials made from waste byproducts. Using this method also supports something called the “circular economy.” The circular economy is based on the concept of little to no waste. Everything is reused or recycled. In this case, researchers used low-cost feedstocks to make lightweight and durable polymer building blocks. Once created, the blocks can be used the same way bricks are and bonded together using an adhesive-free chemical reaction. So, not only are these polymer waste byproduct bricks more sustainable, they also don’t need any separate adhesive.

While bricks like these have been created before, this new study specifically tested the strength and durability of these materials. Researchers also create bricks from waste cooking oil mixed with sulfur and dicyclopentadiene. It also looked at ways the material can be reinforced, if necessary. Integrating polymer bricks into other construction practices is now the primary focus of research in this area. As with any new technologies, incorporating them into the construction processes we already use every day is the next big challenge.

Other Notable Advances in Engineering

There are so many interesting innovations made in engineering every day. Let’s take a look at a few more quick applications of fascinating advances in engineering. First, let’s go back to the microscopic scale with the smallest flow-driven motors ever created. Researchers at the Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands took a cue from the iconic Dutch windmills sprinkled all over the Dutch countryside. They created self-configuring flow-driven rotors from DNA and all the rotors need to function is an electrical or salt gradient.

Another interesting bit of research involves reducing emissions from road construction to cut construction emissions in half. Consider that the construction sector accounts for approximately a quarter of carbon dioxide emissions around the world. To reduce those emissions, researchers in Sweden evaluated the construction of an eight-kilometer stretch of road using futurized materials, production technologies, supply chains and transport. They found that if construction companies used sustainable materials and construction techniques, they could reduce construction emissions by nearly 20%.

These and other fantastic advances happen in the engineering space every day. And at McNeil Engineering, we’re quick to embrace them. When Building Information Modeling (BIM) techniques became effective, we immediately began to incorporate them into our projects. And as laser scanning technologies matured, we embraced those as well. Do you have a project that requires advanced thinking and sustainable materials or construction policies in Salt Lake City or elsewhere in Utah? If so, it’s time to get in touch with your friends at McNeil Engineering. (801) 225-7700

Why engineering consultation is important for your project

We are all familiar with what engineering is, but what do engineering consultants do? Essentially, engineering consultation is the practice of planning and designing a client’s engineering needs. The consultation portion of the business is critical because the client or builder must achieve a proper balance based on what is practical for the project. What you want and what is achievable may be two different things.

A Primer on Engineering Consultation Services for Utah-based Companies

We focus on Utah-based companies because we are a Utah-based company, but we certainly do work outside of Utah and offer engineering consulting services to any business that needs them. But how do these services generally work?

As with any business partnership, the consultation generally begins with a sit-down conversation. The client and the firm will have an in-depth conversation about the specific needs of the project. Both will require a clear definition and understanding of what needs to be done in order to complete the project and provide the required services. If a client wants their project to stand out, to be a project of distinction and excellent character, it will be critical they form a strong working relationship with the engineers advising them.

Similarly, engineering companies must know and understand the wishes, needs and expectations of their client. They need to have a proper understanding of the goals, design ideas, budget, timeline and quality expectations. These are critical aspects of any large engineering or build project, and the company you partner with needs to have a strong understanding of these aspects.

There are also vital considerations to be made from the client to the engineering consultants. It is important that both adequately explore different opportunities, design ideas, budget constraints and so on. Clients need to ensure they have a full and proper understanding of timelines, details and any special features they want or need.

What are the Specific Functions of Civil or Structural Engineering Consultants

No matter the type of engineering being discussed, there are specific functions engineering consultants must consider as they work with their clients. It is incumbent on them to carefully study project reports. They need to properly understand cost estimates and the financial viability of a project. Civil engineering consultants in Utah and beyond must closely interact with the client and obtain a full understanding of their requirements and needs. They should be able to adequately analyze and identify problems that may arise in the project.

Depending on their findings, engineering consultants should not be afraid to advise their clients on repair, alteration or maintenance requirements of the existing project and plan. And they shouldn’t be afraid to clearly and tactfully explain if some of the client’s requirements fall outside of either budget or timeline. They need to create design process flows and plans based on client requirements that fall within budget and timeline and stick to it.

In the end, engineering consultants play a very important role in making sure their clients achieve their core objectives and do so within the parameters both have set. In the end, it is the firm’s job to meet the client’s expectations and implement the project according to what was agreed upon.

Understanding the Benefits of a Local Engineering Consultant

Using a Utah-based engineering firm for your Utah-based project is important for several reasons. First, local engineers will have an in-depth knowledge of local building codes, which could save you time and money when it comes to future inspections. Local engineers and licensed professionals from a local company provide a level of local competency and legitimacy for your project. Local firms also have access to data that might be useful for the completion of your project.

You must also consider costs. Hiring a local firm generally costs less because they come with a wealth of experience and know-how related to your local area. They won’t have to travel or bring equipment from afar when they operate in your local area. It’s not a bad idea to plan ahead and include a local engineer in your engagement process early on.

We also want to take a moment to talk about the risks associated with not using an engineering consultant. Without a civil or structural engineer guiding your project, you’ll be flying blind. Build mistakes will cost you a lot more down the road than if they are addressed with a consultant before the build even begins. Nothing is guaranteed, of course, but hiring an engineering consultant mitigates a substantial amount of risk.

Finally, consider fee structures and rate breakdowns. From a job cost standpoint, a fixed fee is preferable to an hourly rate, but it all depends on the job. At McNeil Engineering, we provide consulting services to fit just about any civil or structural engineering job. We invite you to stop by and learn more about how our top-notch roofing, paving, civil, structural and BIM consultants can ensure your job completes on time, on budget and without a hitch.

Why the world needs (more) engineers

There are several professions that parents very often encourage their children to consider. They’re either going to be a doctor, lawyer or engineer. There’s a very good reason why these professions are the cream of the crop when it comes to career choices. But these professions are about a lot more than making money or building an amazing career your peers will envy.

The World Needs Engineers

Engineering systems are, in many ways, the backbone of societies all over the world. Every single product or device you rely on is generally made using engineering systems. Whether it’s your home, office, or the road or highway you drive on as you commute to work, an engineer played a part in its construction and design. Not to be hyperbolic, but nearly everything you see and use in your everyday life was engineered at some level. Here at McNeil Engineering, we’re proud to have been a part of more than a few such buildings here in the Utah area.

Also consider that the world needs engineers not just for the big jobs, but for the small jobs, too. Engineering disciplines span orders of magnitude in scale and size. Engineers are not only working on some of the most massive, impressive, and aesthetically beautiful bridges and structures in the world, but they’re also working on amazing structures at the nanoscale. Engineering students at universities all over the world are working on real-time seismic testing of large-scale structures, composition and testing of nanoscale and quantum structures and exploring and exploiting their engineering know-how to create next-generation composites and alloys.

Universities are leading the way when it comes to advancing the cause of engineering and developing cutting-edge technologies. Just look at what’s happening at the University of Utah School of Mechanical Engineering. They’re working on everything from flying cars to virtual reality amusement parks. This is really cutting-edge stuff. The fact is engineers claim their primacy as problem solvers. While problem-solving is a critical engineering skill, there is more to the trade than simply solving problems.

How Engineering Has Evolved Over the Years

Engineering careers have undergone some major evolutions over the past 50 years. No longer is engineering simply about structures large and small. Engineers are now at the forefront of complex social issues. The work they do has a direct result on poverty, inequality, disaster recovery and climate change. From cities large and small to remote and rural communities across the country, engineers work on projects that directly impact both high- and low-income students and countries.

Still, the engineering field has a long way to go. For instance, there is a serious gender gap in the engineering field. Among the STEM engineering professions, the percentage of women in engineering is the lowest, at around 15%. The numbers are not much more encouraging in Canada, Australia and other countries around the world. Engineering still seems to be a male-dominated field. But why is that?

While there will always be genetic differences between men and women, a lot of what we believe and how we proceed through life is driven by social beliefs and norms. A study in France showed that even when girls are as good at boys in mathematics, they feel anxious whenever they are given a mathematical problem to solve. Conversely, boys are not judged make enough and feel anxiety when exposed to reading and writing problems, due to the idea that boys cannot express emotions.

Some say the solution is to separate boys and girls in school according to their studies. Their courses would then be in accordance with the social ideals of each gender. Although this may increase each cohort’s scores, the individual tastes of each would be discouraged. It’s important to write, act, and talk against stereotypes. Why can’t boys like pink and why shouldn’t girls be mechanical and chemical engineers?

We Need More Engineers Than Ever Before

Trust us when we say the world needs more engineers. Whether you are a mechanical, civil, chemical, or electrical engineer, all sub-disciplines are looking for competent people who can fill their need for qualified labor. And considering engineers are the sole reason for the growth of our entire civilization, it is not hyperbole to say we need to constantly replenish their ranks.

The world needs engineers because they are not just theoretical thinkers, but also practical achievers. Not only do engineers come up with mind-blowing ideas, but they put their ideas into action by creating prototypes and testing their concepts. They help creatives come up with easy and practical applications for their creative designs.

Here at McNeil Engineering, we’re proud to employ some of the best engineers on this side of the Mississippi. It’s why we’ve been called up for jobs all over the country and leave a trail of satisfied clients in our wake. Contact us today at 888-303-7700 to learn more about how we can engineer your dream into reality.

What has McNeil Engineering been up to so far this year? Part II

Welcome back to Part II in our blog series looking at what we’ve been up to this year. We recently came out with our spring 2022 newsletter and we wanted to highlight some of our proudest projects to illustrate the scope and scale of our work.

1. North Union Landscape Architecture

Our overall objective for the North Union apartments was to create a unique, urban environment for residents and the public that plays off the design of the building but also fits the area. The intersection of 900 East and 7220 South is very heavily trafficked and loud. However, it’s also a major crossing point for students from the nearby high school.

After visiting the site and analyzing the area, we wanted to create a design that allows us to buffer the plaza area and creates small, more intimate gathering spaces and seating areas to be enjoyed by residents and the public. With this in mind, we designed custom black powder-coated steel planters in distinctive shapes that will be planted with our water-wise plant palette.

We designed the complex’s roof deck to be functional for a variety of uses. Black steel planters and cast-in-place concert planters and seat walls, create private seating areas and social gathering spaces with BBQs and inviting spaces to hang out. Native plant material was used for low water usage and for a natural vibe that will be able to sustainable during the heat of summer.

Our design team worked with the developer and architect to include many amenities as possible in the project such as walking paths, interesting seating areas, a zen rooftop pool, and a dog park. Huge shoutout to Scott Schoonover, landscape architect manager on this project.

2. Post Malone Home

As more information is publicly released, we’re happy to share that we had the opportunity to work in-depth on Post Malone’s new home. It was an incredible project, read more below!

The original home was constructed in 1986. The existing construction was primarily of timber framing on a concrete foundation. The new owner wanted to convert the existing living space into a sound studio. The first task was to take out one elevation of the original seismic resisting exterior walls and extend the rear of the home by approximately 30 feet. The new exterior consisted of all glass with no walls so special seismic-resistant moment frames were used to resist the seismic forces. The original design of the structure’s interior had gravity resisting bearing walls. These walls were taken out and replaced with steel beams and steel posts.

The house was constructed on a hillside lot. On the uphill side of the lot, a new cast-in-place underground concrete basement area was designed with a concrete tunnel connecting the main existing house with the new basement. Several tall cantilever concrete walls were constructed on the site to extend the flat areas of the lot for the new construction of a pool house with a new pool. Also on the site is a two-story partially buried 12-car garage with a recreational deck as a roof. Being partially buried, the garage walls were as much as 2’-6” at the base.

McNeil Engineering performed the structural design for the approximately 3000 sq. ft pool house. Constructed of timber framing members and concrete walls, the structure was built on a mat slab foundation to help minimize differential settlement. The pool house has rooms for sleeping and entertaining, including a “man-cave,” which also stores the pool equipment. Some of the most interesting features of this structure are walls that rotate upward so as to give full, open-end access to the pool deck.

McNeil Engineering also performed the structural design for a two-story concrete garage. The rear wall of the garage retains the uphill soil and boulders to carve out a portion of the mountainside for storage and display of the client’s vehicles. A steel-framed second-story open rail mezzanine allows full views of the cars below (or at eye level) thanks to a multi-car lift in the garage. We have to give a shout-out to Matt Roblez, our structural engineer on the project!

We hope you have enjoyed this look back at some of our important and notable projects this year. We would like to end this series of blog posts with a note from our president:

As we approach the 40-year mark of being in business in Utah and the Intermountain Region, I know I speak for our entire team at McNeil Engineering when I say thank you! Reflecting on experiences over my 27 years at McNeil Engineering, it has been truly enriching. From a small team of engineers and a survey crew to the full-service firm that we have become today. We do not take that growth for granted and it wouldn’t be possible without our friends and colleagues. Please enjoy this Spring issue of our quarterly newsletter and know that we appreciate your business and your friendship. Here’s to many more years of working together to help make Utah great!

Mike Hoffman
President

What has McNeil Engineering been up to so far this year? Part I

Welcome to a look at some of our big jobs from the former part of 2022. We wanted to take a moment to highlight our recent work so you can get a better idea of our capabilities.

1. Larkin Cemetery

For more than 20 years our team has had a great relationship with the Larkin family and their incredible team at Larkin Mortuary. The scope of our work includes civil engineering projects, helping lay the foundation for their current headquarters as well as surveying their properties to prepare for future growth.

Led by Surveying Department Manager Mike Hoffman, our team has been involved in surveying and mapping both Larkin Cemetery locations using state-of-the-art technology to help them transition to a new cemetery management software system.

Through the use of drones and ultra-high-resolution cameras, our team was able to provide them with sophisticated imagery including a complete point cloud image of both locations. We sent both to Dan Cable and the team at EDA Land Planning, a firm acting as their go-to landscape architect overseeing our cemetery development.

This information allows their team to ensure accuracy and precision when taking inventory of their current land assets. Plus, it helps them plan for the future with confidence. We look forward to continuing to work with the team at Larkin Mortuary, it’s always a pleasure. Big thanks to Michael D. Hoffman for acting as survey manager on this important project!

2. Draper Innovation

No matter how many roofing or paving projects we manage, it’s never lost on our team how different each project is, and how important it is to keep a keen eye for small details to ensure that each project is successful and that their roofs and parking lots are built to last!

The Draper Innovation Center is no exception to that rule. Across a large lot, this multi-structure complex is an exciting new addition to the area that is nearing completion with one building finished and the other expected to be complete this summer.

As part of our responsibilities as the consultant and project manager our team reviewed plans and specifications for the owner and commented on what details needed to be revised and issues that could be avoided before construction started. We also reviewed material submittals and shop drawings to make sure they lined up with the plans and specifications and took our findings to preconstruction meetings for both buildings to review with the contractor while verifying his material submittals, shop drawings, and construction schedule. Throughout this process, our team worked closely with the general contractor to ensure that there were no conflicts with other trades.

For the duration of the project, our team observes the roofing production twice a week to make sure that the roof is being installed as per the plans and specifications and sends a report with photos to the owner. We also work with the roofing contractor on any field changes that need to be made. Once the project is finished our team will perform the final inspection with the manufacturer and send out a punch list to the roofing contractor with any final adjustments. As part of this process, we verify that owner receives the final warranty documentation. Big thanks to Carl Greene, consulting manager on the project.

3. North Union

In coordination with our very own Structural Engineering, Landscape Architecture, and Surveying departments, our Civil Engineering team had the pleasure of working on the exciting new North Union Apartments project! It really was a blast working in-house across so many departments and disciplines to bring this awesome complex to life which is now entering the final stages of construction.

The key responsibilities of our Civil Engineering team were fairly standard for this type of project as we coordinated with the architects to locate the building on-site and designed all new utility services.

The project was designed to meet city ordinances which are always changing, as well as the new state stormwater codes to recharge our aquifers during an increasingly difficult period of drought for our state! As part of the parking structure, surface improvements were designed to access two separate levels of parking to alleviate congestion at the parking garage entries which is an awesome and welcome change for future residents and helps avoid the traditional hang-up of trying to find somewhere to park at your apartment!

As we see the Draper area and really the entire Salt Lake Valley continues to grow, we’re excited to have a part in preparing the structures and laying the groundwork for future communities! Thank you to Robert Poirier, civil engineering manager on this project!

We hope you have enjoyed this look back at some of our big projects of the year (so far). Join us in our next blog post as we finish out our look at a couple more projects and feature an employee spotlight!

From then to now: A brief history of civil engineering

To be honest, it’s difficult to exactly pinpoint in history when civil engineering became an acknowledged discipline. However, even when there was no name put to it, civil engineering was most certainly used to construct primitive structures. Early humans built basic structures and canoes to cross rivers, which was certainly done using early civil engineering methods. Once humans abandoned a nomadic existence and began to build, civil engineering was right there providing them with the skills and tools to do it. They just did not know at the time that thousands of years later, these very skills would one day be called “civil engineering.”

Civil engineering has been a fact of life since the dawn of the human era. You can go back over 4,000 years to see clear examples of civil engineering at work. Just look at what the ancient Egyptians were able to accomplish long before there were cranes and drones. In fact, one of the first documented engineers of the ancient era was Imhotep, who built the famous stepped pyramid for King Djoser. To this day, the stepped pyramid still stands.

Yet, the line was a bit blurred between architecture and civil engineering. It could be said that Imhotep was both architect and engineer. It was not until modern times that a clear distinction was made between architects and civil engineers. Throughout ancient history, most structural design and engineering were done by stonemasons and carpenters. The knowledge underpinning their methods was passed down through the generations and retained in guilds. Still, these early methods were not without problems. Ancient infrastructure was often quite repetitive and did not innovate quickly.

Civil Engineering During the 18th and 19th Centuries

It was not until the 18th century that the term “civil engineering” was coined. The first civil engineering school was opened in 1747 in France. It was called The National School of Bridges and Highways. The first self-proclaimed civil engineer was a man named John Smeaton. Smeaton would eventually form the Smeatonian Society of Civil Engineers, who acted as leaders in the profession. And although this was more a social society than a technical group, the networking, and conversation that took place there influenced the design and construction of more than a few buildings of the 18th century.

It was not until 1818 in London that the world’s first engineering society was set up as the Institution of Civil Engineers. It was in 1828 that the Institution of Civil Engineers received a Royal Charter and formally recognized civil engineering as a profession. Here is what the charter said:

Civil engineering is the application of physical and scientific principles, and its history is intricately linked to advances in understanding of physics and mathematics throughout history. Because civil engineering is a wide ranging profession, including several separate specialized sub-disciplines, its history is linked to knowledge of structures, material science, geography, geology, soil, hydrology, environment, mechanics and other fields.

Civil Engineering in the Modern Era

Civil engineering involves the design, construction, and maintenance of roads, bridges and structures. The science of civil engineering includes everything from soil science to geology and other applied fields. As such, the history of civil engineering is closely intertwined with the advancement in associated sciences and disciplines.

In the United States, it wasn’t until 1819 that civil engineering was first taught as a discipline. It was at Norwich University that students could enroll in courses on applied civil engineering techniques, methodologies and designs.

The American Society of Civil Engineers was the first national engineering society in the United States. It was founded in 1852 with members related to the civil engineering profession located all over the world. Anyone could join and exists to this day as a great resource for civil engineers and associated workers.

Now, in the modern era, the number of universities in the world that include civil engineering as a discipline has increased tremendously during the 19th and the 20th centuries, indicating the importance of this discipline.

New Technologies in Civil Engineering

A number of new technologies have again transformed civil engineering in the modern era. From high-tech machinery and novel new materials to testing equipment, drones, and other sciences, the civil engineering of today looks quite different than it did even 50 years ago.

Yet, some technologies have had outsized impacts. Take computer-aided design as one example (CAD). CAD technologies allowed engineers to use technology to design better buildings, streamline processes and save time and money. From manufacturing to fabrication and erection, CAD and even CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) have transformed the way projects are designed and completed. Three-dimensional software, BIM technologies, and laser-scanning tools have also provided new ways for civil engineers to do their jobs. From efficient building designs to bridges and other huge, complex structures, modern technology allows construction to be done faster and with fewer errors.

And here at McNeil Engineering, we take pride in looking to these ancient designs for inspiration. While we rely on modern methods, we pay our respects to those who came before us! Thanks for joining us on this historical look back!

A comprehensive look at what we do at McNeil Engineering

Here at McNeil Engineering, we’re proud to have more than 30 years of experience doing what we do. But what exactly is it that we do? Sure, we are engineers, but we also offer a wide array of services to clients of many different types and sizes. From large companies to municipalities, we’re a trusted partner in Utah and beyond.

In short, we provide comprehensive design services including civil engineering, structural engineering, land surveying, high-definition scanning (HDS), landscape architecture and consulting services to the private and public sectors. Today, we’re going to dig deeper into each of those services to properly explain exactly what it is we do and how we do it. Let’s start with our bread and butter: civil engineering.

1. Civil Engineering

Civil engineering represents the design and construction of public works projects. These could include dams, bridges, roadways, tunnels, and other large infrastructure projects. Civil engineering is one of the oldest branches of engineering. Civil engineers were there back when the Roman Coliseum was created, even if they weren’t called that at the time.

Civil engineers are involved in every process of making permanent settlements livable. Whether it be for waste disposal, irrigation ditches, clean water, or otherwise — civil engineers have a hand in all of it. Civil engineers have been involved in some of the greatest projects of the modern era, from the Panama Canal to Hoover Dam.

2. Structural Engineering

Structural engineering is related to civil engineering in that it is a specialty that deals in various aspects of structure building and demolition. Structural engineers focus on:

Research
Planning
Analysis
Design
Construction
Inspection
Evaluation
Monitoring
Maintenance

Structural engineers also evaluate the various technical, environmental, and aesthetic aspects of the projects they work on. Structural engineers are responsible for ensuring whatever is being constructed doesn’t collapse or sustain damage in the event of a natural disaster. They specialize in evaluating structural loads, materials, components, and connections involved in a structure. In the end, it’s their job to properly plan the construction sequence the rest of the team carries out. They also prepare plans and drawings to ensure specifications are up to code.

3. Land Surveying

Do you ever notice people on the road looking through those strange tripod-type devices. We’ll give you a hint— those aren’t telescopes. These individuals are land surveyors. A land surveyor’s job is to determine the terrestrial and three-dimensional positions of points and distances and the angles between them. This process is mainly used to establish maps and boundaries for a construction project.

Land surveyors use physics, mathematics, engineering, and local laws to establish boundaries on a construction project. They also use various types of equipment to do their job, much like the aforementioned tripod-like device. These types of equipment include robotic total stations, prisms, GPS receivers, radios, 3D scanners, and other types of surveying software used on handheld tablets and computers. Land surveying is a critical aspect of any development process as a construction project is being planned.

5. High-Definition Scanning

High-definition surveying or HDS laser scanning is a method of mapping positional data on a job site. Laser scanning represents one of the most efficient and accurate ways to survey a project. Not only does it provide a lot more data than older survey methods, but it requires a lot less manpower to complete.

The HDS laser scanning process uses a rotating laser to measure millions of points around a job site. Advanced software and — in some cases — machine learning, is used to produce a highly accurate 3D representation of the conditions and measurements of a project site. The HDS operator will place the laser at a series of locations around the site and then let the device do its job. Laser scanning also provides accurate positional data regarding existing topography and structures.

6. Landscape Architecture

As we have discussed before, landscaping and landscape architecture are two totally different things. Landscape architecture is essentially the science and art of design, planning, management and stewardship of land or a particular project. Successful landscape architecture utilizes scientific knowledge, environmental know-how, and a concern for resource conservation.

Landscape architecture covers projects both large and small. But it’s also used in the design and management of public spaces. Landscape architects play a specific role in designing the landscape around a particular project. They play a complementary role to the landscape contractor and others involved in project installation.

7. Consulting Services

Are you a large company, contractor, or construction firm planning a big project? We have been proudly serving the Salt Lake City area and beyond for many decades. We are available to consult on your construction project and provide comprehensive advice and planning in all the services listed above. Learn more about the projects we have completed in the past and then give us a call. Let’s work together!

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