There are many skilled trades that contribute to the construction of impressive structures. Among these dedicated professionals, union ironworkers play a crucial role in constructing the frameworks that shape our cities. But what exactly does a union ironworker do? At Egan Company,  ironworkers do it all. From moving, installing, and setting curtainwall to welding structural steel. and operating aerial lifts. It’s not uncommon to see an Egan ironworker perched high atop a new high rise building installing curtain wall or window wall systems that not only keeps the building protected from the elements, but adds to the exterior design. 

THE FOUNDATION OF UNION IRONWORKING

Ironworkers are highly skilled and  specialize in the installation, assembly, and maintenance of structural iron and steel components. They work on a wide range of projects, from commercial buildings and bridges to stadiums and high-rise structures. The work of an ironworker is physically demanding and requires expertise in handling heavy materials and operating specialized equipment.

STEEL FRAMEWORK INSTALLATION

One of the primary responsibilities of an ironworker is the installation of steel frameworks. They are the professionals who connect the skeletal steel structures, which form the backbone of buildings and infrastructure. This involves working at great heights, often using cranes, hoists, and other machinery to maneuver heavy beams, columns, and girders into place. Precision and attention to detail are essential to ensure that the structures are assembled  safely and accurately.

WELDING AND FABRICATION

Welding and fabrication are key skills for ironworkers. They possess expertise in welding techniques to join steel components, using arc welding, gas metal arc welding (MIG), and other methods. This enables them to create strong and durable connections between steel elements, ensuring the stability of the structures they construct. Additionally, ironworkers may be involved in fabricating and installing stairs, handrails, and other metal components to complete a project.

Iron workers are dedicated to continuously improving their skills and expertise, especially at Egan Company. Our iron workers are committed to improve innovation in order to exceed customer expectations. Not only are Egan’s ironworkers committed to innovation, but they are committed to safely getting the  job done. Learn more about Egan Iron Workers.

In the vast world of industrial machinery, there exists a specialized group of craftspeople known as millwrights. These skilled individuals play a crucial role in assembling, installing, and maintaining the intricate machinery that powers various industries. From factories and power plants to refineries and manufacturing facilities, millwrights ensure the smooth operation of heavy machinery. Egan Company millwrights have been working on projects across the Twin Cities since 1999, and are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to assist you. 

WHAT IS A MILLWRIGHT?

A millwright is a highly skilled tradesperson who specializes in the installation, maintenance, repair, and dismantling of heavy machinery found in industrial settings, such as factories, power plants, construction sites, and manufacturing facilities. The term “millwright” has historical roots, referring to those who originally worked on flour mills and other mechanical systems.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF A MILLWRIGHT:

• Machinery Installation: Millwrights are experts at assembling and installing large-scale machinery, including conveyor systems, turbines, generators, pumps, compressors, and other intricate equipment. They interpret engineering drawings, align components, and ensure everything is properly connected.
• Machinery Maintenance: Millwrights are responsible for conducting regular inspections, preventive maintenance, and repairs on machinery to ensure optimal performance and prevent breakdowns. They use diagnostic tools, such as vibration analysis equipment, to detect potential issues before they escalate.
• Machinery Repair: When machinery malfunctions or breaks down, millwrights spring into action. They troubleshoot the problem, identify faulty components, and replace or repair them accordingly. This involves working with various tools, such as wrenches, welding equipment, precision measuring instruments, and even computerized diagnostic software.
• Machinery Alignment: Precision is critical in the functioning of machinery. Millwrights meticulously align and level equipment, ensuring all parts are properly positioned and calibrated to meet exact specifications. This involves using specialized laser alignment tools and techniques.
• Safety and Compliance: Millwrights prioritize safety and adhere to strict occupational health and safety regulations. They take precautionary measures to secure machinery, install safety guards, and implement lockout/tagout procedures to protect workers from accidents during maintenance or repair activities.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Millwrights possess a deep understanding of mechanical principles and systems, enabling them to comprehend complex machinery and troubleshoot issues effectively.
• They are well-versed in using various tools, machinery, and equipment relevant to their trade, including welding machines, cutting torches, rigging gear, and precision measurement instruments.
• Millwrights can interpret technical drawings, schematics, and blueprints, allowing them to understand equipment specifications and assemble machinery accurately.
• Millwrights excel at analyzing and solving complex mechanical problems. They possess a sharp eye for detail, can think critically, and approach challenges with a systematic mindset.
• The job of a millwright often requires working in physically demanding environments, climbing heights, and maneuvering heavy machinery. Physical fitness, agility, and adaptability are essential attributes.

Millwrights are the backbone of industrial machinery, silently ensuring the smooth operation and longevity of vital equipment. Their expertise in installation, maintenance, and repair plays a significant role in keeping industries running efficiently. At Egan, our expert millwrights will assist you on projects big and small. From the moment a massive piece of machinery arrives at a site to its regular upkeep and occasional repair, Egan’s millwright workers are the skilled professionals who handle it all. Egan Millwright Specialties> 

In commercial architecture, glazing systems are a fundamental element in building design. Glazing systems offer a seamless integration of glass within aluminum or steel framing systems, transforming the way we experience and interact with buildings. Glazing systems incorporate a wide range of techniques, materials, and technologies that enable the incorporation of glass elements into the design of structures. The primary purpose of glazing systems is to achieve a balance between transparency, natural light, energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and visual appeal all while keeping occupants inside the building comfortable. At Egan, our InterClad team are the experts in storefront, curtain wall, window wall, and glass and glazing. When it comes to the design, engineering, and installation of these systems, Egan will be there to assist you. 

ARCHITECTURAL GLAZING SYSTEMS

Glazing systems rely on glass panels for transparency and natural light transmission that are supported 

by sturdy frameworks and sealed to ensure a weatherproof installation. There are various thermal features in these systems that enhance energy efficiency. Together, these elements create visually appealing and sustainable building envelopes.

• GLASS PANELS: At the core of any glazing system lies a glass panel. It is the primary component that allows for transparency and facilitates the transmission of natural light into a building’s interior space. Glass panels come in various types, including heat strengthened glass, tempered glass, laminated glass, and insulated glass units (IGUs), each with specific properties suited for different applications.
• STRUCTURAL SUPPORT: Glazing systems rely on a robust framework to support and hold the glass panels in place. The structural support can be made of aluminum, steel, or other materials with the necessary strength and stability to withstand external forces such as wind and seismic activity. The framework provides the necessary rigidity while also allowing for the desired aesthetics and architectural form.
• SEALING AND WEATHERPROOFING: To ensure the longevity and performance of the glazing system, proper sealing and weatherproofing  measures are essential. Sealants, gaskets, and weatherstripping is used to create an airtight and watertight barrier between the glass panels and the supporting structure. This helps prevent moisture infiltration, air leakage, and thermal inefficiencies, maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.
• INSULATION AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY: Glazing systems can incorporate insulation features to improve energy efficiency and thermal performance. Double glazing or triple glazing with sealed air or gas-filled gaps between the glass layers minimize heat transfer, reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling purposes. Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings can also be applied to glass surfaces to enhance insulation properties and control solar heat gain.

Glazing systems offer a blend of aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. Egan’s experienced InterClad team is committed to sustainability and has built hundreds of commercial projects by developing, installing, and maintaining their glazing systems. Dig deeper into InterClad services > to learn more about how they can help you achieve your sustainability goal!

In the world of automation and industrial control systems, there’s one component that plays a critical role in managing and controlling complex processes. This component is known as a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). A PLC is a special purpose computer employed in industrial processes to automate control systems. It is a rugged and reliable piece of hardware designed to withstand harsh industrial environments, making it ideal for use in factories, power plants, assembly lines, and other industrial settings. PLCs are primarily used to monitor and control machinery, equipment, and processes, facilitating efficient and precise operations. From PLC upgrades and installations to fabricating new I/O control panels and wiring, Egan Company is your resource when it comes to unmatched control system integration and engineering expertise.

FUNCTIONALITY AND COMPONENTS

PLCs consist of three primary components: a central processing unit (CPU), input modules, and output modules. The CPU acts as the brain, executing programs and coordinating the communication between inputs and outputs. Input modules are responsible for receiving signals from various sensors and switches, such as temperature sensors, pressure transducers, or limit switches, while output modules are responsible for controlling actuators, such as motors, solenoid valves, or relays. The PLC can also communicate with smart devices such as servo drives and VFDs.

The programming of PLCs is done using specialized software, allowing control engineers to create logic-based programs that define the behavior of the PLC. These programs are typically written using ladder logic, a graphical programming language that represents control circuits in a logical and intuitive manner. Additionally, PLC programming languages can include function block diagrams (FBD), structured text (ST), and sequential function charts (SFC).

PLC ADVANTAGES

PLCs offer several advantages over PC-based control, making them a preferred choice in industrial automation. Some key benefits of using PLCs include:

• Flexibility: PLCs can be easily reprogrammed or modified to accommodate changes in the manufacturing process, making them highly flexible and adaptable.
• Reliability: PLCs are built to operate in harsh environments with high levels of vibration, temperature fluctuations, and electrical noise. Their rugged design ensures reliable performance and reduces the risk of downtime.
• Centralized Control: PLCs enable centralized control of multiple devices, eliminating the need for separate controllers for each machine or process. This centralized approach improves coordination of separate steps of a manufacturing process as well as simplifying troubleshooting.
• Fault Detection and Diagnostics: PLCs provide advanced diagnostic capabilities, allowing for real-time monitoring and detection of faults. This feature aids in proactive maintenance and reduces downtime.

By providing reliable, flexible, and efficient control, PLCs have revolutionized industrial automation. When it comes to control system integration and engineering, Egan Company is your partner. Check out Egan’s Latest PLC Upgrade>

Electrical infrastructure demands tailor electrical systems to suit unique requirements. The two domains, industrial and commercial, each have a distinct set of challenges and necessities. While both rely on electricity to power their operations, understanding the differences between industrial and commercial electrical systems is essential for professionals working in the field. As your resource in the electrical industry, Egan Company is an expert in both industrial and commercial electrical in Minneapolis, Rochester, and beyond.

INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS:

Industrial electrical systems in Minnesota are designed to cater to the complex demands of manufacturing plants, factories, and heavy industries. These settings typically involve large-scale machinery, equipment, and industrial processes that consume substantial amounts of power. Key features that differentiate industrial electrical systems:

• Power Capacity: Industrial electrical systems are engineered to handle high power loads. They require robust infrastructure, including high-voltage substations, transformers, and switchgear, capable of managing substantial electrical currents.
• Three-Phase Power: Industrial settings often employ three-phase power systems to distribute electricity efficiently. Three-phase power offers better performance for motor-driven equipment and provides a more balanced and stable power supply.
• Motor Control: Industrial electrical systems frequently involve motor control centers (MCCs) to manage the operation of motors and associated equipment. MCCs enable centralized control, protection, and monitoring of various motors across the facility.
• Hazardous Environments: Industrial environments may present hazardous conditions such as explosive atmospheres, high temperatures, or corrosive substances. Therefore, industrial electrical systems must comply with stringent safety regulations, employing specialized equipment like explosion-proof enclosures and intrinsically safe wiring.

COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS:

Commercial electrical systems in Minnesota, on the other hand, cater to non-industrial environments, including office buildings, retail spaces, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. While these settings may not have the same power demands as industrial sectors, they have their own unique requirements. Characteristics of commercial electrical systems:

• Lighting and HVAC: Commercial spaces emphasize lighting and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. These systems consume a significant portion of the energy load, and electrical infrastructure is designed to support their operation efficiently.
• Single-Phase Power: Unlike industrial settings, most commercial electrical systems utilize single-phase power distribution. Single-phase power is suitable for lighter loads and is commonly used for lighting, small appliances, and general office equipment.
• Outlets and Circuitry: Commercial spaces require ample electrical outlets to accommodate various electronic devices and equipment. Adequate circuitry planning is crucial to ensure proper distribution of power, prevent overloading, and maintain safety standards.
• Fire and Life Safety Systems: Commercial buildings incorporate fire alarm systems, emergency lighting, exit signs, and other life safety measures. These systems must be integrated into the electrical infrastructure to ensure the safety of occupants during emergencies.

Distinctions between industrial and commercial electrical systems is crucial for electrical engineers, contractors, and facility managers, as it enables them to design, install, and maintain electrical infrastructure tailored to the unique demands of each sector. At Egan, leading electricians have worked on thousands of electrical construction projects throughout the Twin Cities metro area, Rochester and Southern Minnesota, as well as Northern Minnesota. Whether your requirements entail low voltage solutions or solar engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services, we proudly stand as the preferred contractor for your needs.