Temporary Monorail Solution for Transfer Line Replacement

Project Profile:

The replacement of a 55,200 lb transfer line at Koch Fertilizer’s facility, constructed in the 1960s, required an engineered solution to overcome severe space constraints, limited access for lifting equipment, and the need to maintain ongoing operations. A temporary monorail lifting system was designed to both remove the existing line and install the new one, transferring loads to existing structural supports without overstressing the original building frame.

The system incorporated a custom‑engineered beam and trolley arrangement, optimized for restricted headroom and narrow working corridors, enabling controlled horizontal and vertical movement of the load. Structural load path analysis, rigging design, and installation sequencing were developed to ensure stability and safety throughout the operation.

This case study outlines the design methodology, safety considerations, and execution strategy, demonstrating how temporary engineered systems can provide safe, efficient, and cost‑effective solutions for heavy equipment replacement in aging industrial facilities.

Presenters:

Ramtin Azami, PE, MSc | Construction Engineer, PCL Industrial Management

Ramtin is a Construction Engineer with PCL Industrial Management, where he focuses on solving complex constructability challenges in heavy industrial projects. With a background in structural, geotechnical, and construction engineering, and holding a Master of Science in Construction Engineering and Management from the University of New Brunswick, he brings a multidisciplinary perspective to project execution. Over the past three years, Ramtin has contributed to major power generation, hydrogen production, and fertilizer facilities, developing practical engineering solutions such as innovative temporary works to support safe and efficient construction. He is passionate about bridging design and construction, and about advancing structural engineering practices in industrial environments.

Dinner Location

University of Alberta

The University Club

11435 Saskatchewan Drive

Dinner Schedule

Registration & Networking 5:30

Buffet Dinner 6:30

Presentation 7:30

Closing Remarks 8:30

Dinner Rates

Members & Sponsors $50

Students $25

Non-Members $65

Sponsoring companies can redeem their complementary dinner tickets by registering for sponsor dinner ticket option. Please note pre-registration is required so we can have headcount for the dinner.

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Host or Publisher Canadian Society for Civil Engineering - Edmonton Section