Ross model to aid steel replacement

A new scale model of the Ross Shaft will help engineers and technicians plan and execute the five-year project to replace the steel supports in the shaft. ?It will also help us with risk assessment,? Technical Support Lead Jim Hanhardt says.

Hanhardt and Infrastructure Technician Dan James built the 1-to-7 scale model using aluminum tubing and steel angle iron. The wood outer framework represents the rock walls of  the shaft. The model, which is about 8 feet tall,  recreates 50 to 60 feet of shaft.

The Ross Shaft was commissioned in 1934. It was reinforced with rectangular steel frames that were built in 6-foot ?sets.? The new steel framework will be constructed in 18-foot sets, which will speed installation and improve the structural integrity of the shaft.

The Ross model includes steel sets in the current configuration at the bottom and sets in the new configuration on top. Hanhardt also will add models of jib cranes, mounted on work decks, which infrastructure technicians will use to lower new steel into position.

Senior Project Manager Will McElroy said the model helps the steel-replacement team conceptualize the process and identify challenges before the project begins. ?Even though the model has only been on site a few days, it?s already proven to be a valuable tool during our project safety meetings,? McElroy said.  ?Jim and Dan did a fine job.?