This pasta production facility in Dali, Nicosia, Cyprus demonstrates structural engineering for retrofitting aging industrial buildings. The 1,200m² structure, designed in May 1988, predates both the 1994 Cypriot seismic code and 2012 Eurocode 8 implementation, presenting fundamental lateral stability challenges for photovoltaic installation in an exposed wind environment.

Before design work commenced, we engaged a specialized certified laboratory to conduct comprehensive non-destructive testing and visual inspection. The investigation revealed loose bolted connections, incomplete welds on secondary members, and localized corrosion on base plates requiring remediation. This independent assessment provided the baseline for our retrofitting approach.

Our structural solution addressed the absence of effective roof diaphragm action in the original lightweight concrete and galvanized mesh system. We implemented a three-level bracing strategy creating bidirectional lateral load paths: horizontal diaphragms at both truss chord levels transfer forces to main 20m Pratt trusses acting as portal frames for transverse direction, and to three perpendicular steel bracing trusses for longitudinal direction. Loads transfer through steel and reinforced concrete columns to existing foundations, ensuring stability in both directions.

Dual analysis methods verified the design. Pushover analysis confirmed reinforced concrete member adequacy, while linear elastic analysis with conservative behavior factor q=1.5 validated all steel members including buckling verifications. The lightweight roof replacement eliminated foundation strengthening requirements while establishing proper lateral force distribution.

This project showcases our capabilities in industrial retrofitting and structural adequacy assessment for commercial developments.