At the heart of every Pryda product lies the dedication and knowledge of our Engineering team. But their support doesn’t end there—it extends our fabricators’ design offices and on-site.
We talk to Pryda’s Structural Engineer Cici Cai based in Queensland. Cici has been with Pryda for two years and prior to that she spent eight years working as a structural engineer in China.
Tell us about your role as a Structural Engineer at Pryda
My role involves collaborating closely with fabricators to ensure precise design specifications and effective adoption of Pryda products such as the SpeedTrussTM and the FastFixTM screws system. I also offer guidance on best practice for building codes compliance and troubleshoot technical challenges during the construction process.
A big portion of my work revolves around rectification design and site visits, where I provide advice on our systems and relevant code updates.
How does the Pryda Engineering team support builders?
In the design phase, we offer personalised assistance to ensure selected products and systems align with project requirements and regulatory standards.
Recently, in Queensland, collaborating with Rob, our Builder Solutions Development Manager, we facilitated the adoption of the FastFixTM screw system in various projects. While Rob engages directly with builders onsite, I provide technical support behind the scenes and the training for fabricators to develop screw layouts.
Our assistance extends to the certification process, where we liaise with certifiers, clarifying product specifications and providing necessary documentation for smooth approvals.
What are some common rectification issues you’ve seen onsite?
Broken members or joints in trusses stand out as a common issue, often due to improper assembly or handling onsite.
Cutting truss members in roof structures to fit AC units or skylights which is not considered in the design phase also poses challenges. The alteration of the trusses can cause potential damage to structural integrity.
Truss deflection is another issue, particularly in large-span or low-pitch roof configurations. Addressing such issues requires meticulous investigation and remediation.
Feel free to contact your Pryda fabricator if you have technical issues and our team will support. Of course our service is not limited to Pryda builders, any users are welcome to reach out.
Cici Cai
Structural Engineer
E: ccai@prydaanz.com