West Michigan Lighting

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Calvin College Spoelhof Fieldhouse Complex

Michigan

Supplier

Story

Of the approximately 1250 tons of structural steel on this project, the main feature was the two structural steel trusses in the arena area. When fully assembled, each weighed a total of 103 tons and spanned over 200 feet. Due to their weight, the fabrication of these trusses occurred outside at Steel Supply and Engineering. Each truss was pre-assembled in its entirety to assure proper fit-up once it was delivered to the project site. Each truss was shipped in three separate pieces. Splice plates up to nine feet long were utilized to fit the three truss pieces together. Due to the magnitude of the trusses and the number of holes that occur at each splice, the fit-up at SS&E was a critical part in assuring the success of the project. Many hours of internal planning and design by SS&E took place in order to accomplish this project.

Not to be overlooked, are the eleven structural steel trusses spanning the new swimming pool. These were fabricated in two sections due to shipping restrictions. The web configuration and overall layout and arched bottom chord proved challenging in the detailing and fabrication process. Special care also had to be taken during fabrication as these trusses are one of the main architectural features of the project.

Budget $5,900,000

Supervision Jason Bosscher, Clay Poe, Mitch Van Houten.

Facts

  • Title: Calvin college spoelhof fieldhouse complex
  • Location: Michigan
  • Phase: Complete