Tag: as3990-mechanical-equipment

Hamilton By Design provides mechanical design, finite element analysis, 3D LiDAR scanning and drafting support for mechanical-equipment steelwork projects involving AS 3990.

AS 3990 addresses steelwork associated with mechanical equipment. Relevant projects can include machinery frames, equipment supports, platforms, brackets, galleries and other fabricated assemblies subjected to operational or equipment-generated loads.

Our services can support new equipment, replacement components and brownfield plant modifications. Depending on the agreed scope, this may include:

  • Existing-condition LiDAR scanning
  • Point-cloud registration
  • Mechanical equipment layouts
  • 3D CAD modelling
  • Static and fatigue FEA support
  • General arrangement drawings
  • Fabrication and assembly drawings
  • Material and parts lists
  • Clash and installation-clearance reviews

Where existing documentation is incomplete, LiDAR scanning can capture the installed equipment, steelwork, connection locations and surrounding plant. This provides an accurate spatial reference for developing models and coordinating proposed modifications.

Loads, load combinations, dynamic effects, fatigue requirements, materials, member capacities and connections must be established for the particular equipment and operating conditions. Structural steelwork calculations, connection design and structural certification must be completed or approved by an appropriately qualified structural engineer.

Hamilton By Design provides mechanical engineering, CAD modelling and drafting support but does not provide structural certification.

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Fabrication & Product Design

Light Fabrication for Residential and Commercial Applications

Hamilton By Design provides product design and fabrication development for light steel fabrication used in residential and commercial environments. This service is focused on bespoke steel products that require accurate design, clear fabrication documentation, and reliable installation outcomes.

Our work sits between concept and fabrication. We develop fabrication-ready designs that integrate with existing buildings, services, and site conditions, supporting builders, fabricators, and property owners who require confidence that components will fit first time.

This service complements our mechanical engineering, 3D scanning, and CAD capabilities and is typically engaged where off-the-shelf products are unsuitable or where site-specific conditions must be addressed early.

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Design-for-Fabrication Approach

All products within this category are developed using design-for-fabrication principles. This means geometry, tolerances, fixing methods, and installation constraints are considered during design, not left to be resolved on site.

Where required, designs are informed by existing-condition data captured through our 3D scanning services:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/3d-laser-scanning/

Design development and detailing are carried out using SolidWorks-based 3D CAD workflows to produce fabrication-ready outputs:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/3d-cad/

Gates & Access Steel

We design bespoke gates and access steel for residential and commercial properties, tailored to site geometry, fixing conditions, and operational requirements.

Typical applications include sliding gates, swing gates, cantilever gates, pedestrian access gates, and commercial entry gates. Designs consider post fixings, ground interfaces, clearances, and integration with surrounding structures.

Related engineering capability:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/mechanical-engineering/

Door & Window Grills

Door and window grills are often required to balance security, ventilation, and architectural intent. We develop opening-specific grill designs that suit residential retrofits and commercial refurbishments.

Products may include security door grills, window grills, decorative architectural grills, and removable systems where access or maintenance is required. Geometry and fixing are resolved during design to support clean fabrication and installation.

Supporting drafting capability:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/structural-drafting/

Balustrades, Handrails & Guarding

Balustrades, handrails, and guarding systems are safety-critical elements commonly introduced during upgrades and renovations. We provide fabrication-ready designs for residential and commercial settings where existing conditions vary and standard systems are unsuitable.

Designs consider fixing interfaces, load paths, and integration with existing slabs, stairs, or structures.

Engineering certification can be provided where required:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/engineering-certification/

Screens & Architectural Steel

Steel screens and feature panels are used for privacy, shading, boundary definition, and architectural expression. We design lightweight fabricated steel screens suited to balconies, courtyards, façades, and internal spaces.

Design development includes panelisation, fixing strategy, finishes, and installation sequencing to ensure the product can be fabricated and installed efficiently.

Related CAD and documentation services:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/3d-cad-drawings/

Stairs, Ladders & Access Systems

We design light-duty stairs, ladders, and access systems for residential and commercial environments where space constraints or existing geometry require a bespoke solution.

Applications include compact staircases, mezzanine access stairs, fixed ladders, and maintenance access systems. Accurate geometry is critical, and designs are developed to suit fabrication and on-site installation.

Mechanical engineering support:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/mechanical-engineering/

Bollards, Barriers & Protective Steel

Protective steel elements such as bollards and barriers are commonly introduced to manage vehicle movement, protect assets, and improve pedestrian safety.

We design light fabricated protective steel for car parks, commercial sites, and mixed-use developments, resolving fixing, spacing, and integration with existing pavements or structures.

Custom Frames, Brackets & Light Steel Assemblies

Many light fabrication projects involve custom brackets, frames, or small assemblies to support equipment, services, or architectural elements.

We develop fabrication-ready designs for mounting frames, brackets, skids, and small steel assemblies, ensuring interfaces with client equipment and existing buildings are clearly defined.

Supporting CAD workflows:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/3d-cad/

Ute Trays & Light Commercial Vehicle Trays

For residential and commercial trade use, we design custom ute trays and light commercial vehicle trays where off-the-shelf solutions do not meet operational requirements.

Designs consider vehicle mounting, load distribution, accessory integration, and fabrication practicality. This service is limited to light commercial use and does not extend to heavy vehicle manufacturing.

Van & Light Commercial Vehicle Fit-Outs

We provide design support for internal van fit-outs involving light steel fabrication only. Typical applications include shelving systems, equipment mounting frames, internal partitions, and support structures.

Designs are vehicle-specific and focused on safe mounting, durability, and ease of installation.

Engineering certification can be provided where required:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/engineering-certification/

Engineering Certification

All products within this category can be mechanically engineered and certified where required. Certification scope is defined on a project-by-project basis and may support approvals, compliance requirements, or handover documentation.

Certification services are delivered in conjunction with documented design and fabrication information.

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Scope Clarification

This service category is limited to light steel fabrication for residential and commercial applications. It does not include heavy industrial fabrication, structural building frames, or large infrastructure works.

This clear scope ensures consistent quality, reliable delivery, and alignment with fabrication-ready outcomes.

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3D CAD Modelling & Mechanical Drafting

3D CAD Modelling & Mechanical Drafting

Engineer-led digital models and drawings that go all the way to fabrication and site

At Hamilton By Design, our 3D CAD modelling and mechanical drafting services are built for real-world engineering — not just pretty pictures.

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We combine site experience, SolidWorks-based modelling and practical fabrication knowledge to produce models and drawings that installers, fabricators and maintainers can actually trust. Whether you’re upgrading a brownfield plant, designing new equipment or tidying up legacy documentation, we act as your outsourced mechanical design office, providing precise, buildable digital deliverables.

What we do as your 3D CAD & drafting consultants

We don’t just “draw what you tell us”. We work as engineering consultants across the full lifecycle of a mechanical scope:

  • Concept to detailed 3D models
    • Parametric 3D models of mechanical equipment, plant layouts and support structures
    • Options and “what-if” geometry to explore different design directions
    • Early checks for fit-up, access and maintenance
  • Fabrication-ready mechanical drafting
    • GA drawings, detail drawings and shop drawings for steelwork, chutes, hoppers, conveyors, guards and platework
    • Clear dimensioning, weld symbols, notes and call-outs suitable for workshop use
    • DXFs / step-files for plate nesting, profiling and CNC workflows
  • Brownfield & retrofit modelling
    • 3D models built around existing plant geometry (often from 3D LiDAR scans)
    • Retrofit equipment and modifications that are tailored to your real as-built conditions
    • Clash checks and construction sequencing in tight, congested plants
  • BOMs and manufacturing data
    • Structured Bills of Materials aligned to your procurement and ERP processes
    • Cut lists, plate developments and standard part libraries
    • Export to neutral formats for fabricators and OEM partners
  • Drawing updates & documentation clean-up
    • Redrawing old 2D sketches and mark-ups into structured 3D models + 2D drawings
    • Updating drawings to reflect plant modifications and shutdown works
    • Creating as-built drawing sets suitable for asset registers and compliance records

How our 3D CAD process supports better mechanical outcomes

Because our modelling is led by practising mechanical engineers, every step is geared toward engineering performance, safety and constructability.

  1. Understand the scope and constraints
    We begin by clarifying duty, environment, design life, shutdown windows, lifting/install requirements and any relevant standards. This ensures the model reflects how the asset will actually be used, not just how it looks on screen.
  2. Capture or reference the real geometry
    For brownfield work, we typically integrate our 3D LiDAR scanning into the CAD workflow, so new designs are wrapped around accurate as-built geometry. For greenfield scopes, we work from P&IDs, layout drawings and vendor data.
  3. Develop parametric 3D models
    We build intelligent, parametric models in SolidWorks so changes are fast and controlled. This allows us to adjust clearances, plate thicknesses, bolt patterns and support arrangements without starting from scratch.
  4. Review with your team early
    We use 3D views, marked-up PDFs and, where useful, e-drawing viewers so your operations, maintenance and safety teams can comment before drawings are frozen. That’s where you pick up the “practical” issues — access, guarding, hoses, walkways, lifting and isolation points.
  5. Produce fabrication and installation drawings
    Once the 3D model is agreed, we generate structured 2D drawings with the right level of detail for workshop, site and client records. We can align drawing standards to your existing title blocks, revision systems and naming conventions.
  6. Support during fabrication and construction
    We remain involved as engineering consultants — answering queries from fabricators, updating drawings for site changes and supporting any design tweaks uncovered during installation or commissioning.

Where our 3D CAD & drafting services are typically used

Hamilton By Design’s 3D modelling and drafting work is focused on heavy industry, mining and manufacturing, including:

  • Coal handling and preparation plants (CHPPs)
  • Hard-rock and minerals processing plants
  • Conveyors, transfer stations and material handling systems
  • Chutes, hoppers, bins and wear-liner layouts
  • Pumping skids, pipework, manifolds and mechanical supports
  • Access platforms, walkways, handrails and maintenance structures
  • OEM upgrades, retrofit packages and plant debottlenecking projects

We understand the realities of shutdowns, live-plant work and remote operations. Our models and drawings are built with those constraints in mind.

Why engage Hamilton By Design as your CAD & drafting partner?

Engineer-led, not just drafting-led
All work is overseen by experienced mechanical engineers with site backgrounds, so the models and drawings naturally reflect real-world loads, clearances and maintenance needs.

Tightly integrated with 3D LiDAR scanning
For brownfield sites, we can bring in high-accuracy point clouds to minimise rework and fit-up issues. That means less cutting and welding on site, and more “first-time fit” during shutdowns.

Optimised for fabrication and installation
We think about how plates will be cut, how assemblies will be transported and lifted, and how installers will actually put things together. That mindset reduces RFIs, delays and costly rework.

Flexible engagement — from one-off drawings to full plant packages
We can help with anything from a small set of detail drawings through to complete plant layouts, equipment packages and drawing-office support across multiple projects.

Typical deliverables

When you engage Hamilton By Design for 3D CAD modelling and mechanical drafting, you can expect:

  • Native SolidWorks models (and other formats on request)
  • 2D fabrication and GA drawings in PDF and DWG/DXF
  • Structured BOMs and part lists
  • Optional point-cloud and model alignment reports (for scanned sites)
  • Marked-up general arrangement views for use in risk assessments, HAZOPs and maintenance planning
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Let’s talk about your next mechanical scope

Whether you need a single retrofit component, a new chute and transfer station, or a complete update of old mechanical drawings, Hamilton By Design can act as your external mechanical design office.

We’ll help you move from rough ideas, hand sketches and legacy drawings to accurate 3D models and fabrication-ready documentation — with engineering support built in.

Ready to discuss a project?
Get in touch to talk through your next mechanical scope, or connect this service with our related offerings in:

  • Mechanical Design & Custom Equipment Layouts
  • 3D LiDAR Scanning for As-Built & Brownfield Engineering
  • Finite Element Analysis (FEA) & Mechanical/Structural Assessment

We’re here to help you turn complex mechanical problems into buildable, reliable solutions.

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SolidWorks Design Services

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SolidWorks Design Services

The Many Faces of Mechanical Design: How SolidWorks Powers Modern Engineering Across Australia

At Hamilton By Design, we see the same pattern every day across mining, heavy industry, manufacturing, and complex brownfield environments: the quality of engineering outcomes depends directly on the quality of the models driving them. And when it comes to mechanical design, SolidWorks remains one of the most capable and versatile platforms on the planet.

From dragline components to sheet metal enclosures, from pressure vessel upgrades to bespoke robotics, SolidWorks enables engineers to turn ideas into precise, fabrication-ready models that reduce rework, eliminate uncertainty, and accelerate project delivery.

Below, we explore the full spectrum of mechanical design disciplines where SolidWorks excels — and how Hamilton By Design uses this capability to deliver accurate, reliable, engineering-grade outcomes across Australia.

Why SolidWorks Remains the Backbone of Mechanical Design

SolidWorks brings together parametric modelling, simulation, large assembly performance, surfacing, sheet metal tools, weldments, routing and visualisation under a single environment. The result is powerful:

✔ Engineering that is data-driven
✔ Models that are precise and fabrication-ready
✔ Assemblies that reflect true site conditions
✔ Designs that respond intelligently to changes
✔ Drawings that follow Australian Standards
✔ Seamless integration with LiDAR-based as-builts

When paired with Hamilton By Design’s LiDAR scanning workflows, SolidWorks becomes an engine for delivering zero-guesswork mechanical design.

Mechanical Design Disciplines Perfectly Suited to SolidWorks Modelling

SolidWorks supports a huge range of engineering tasks. Below is a deep dive into the disciplines where Hamilton By Design deploys it every day.

1. Machine Design: Precision for Moving Systems

SolidWorks is a natural fit for mechanical equipment upgrades and R&D design work, including:

  • Gearboxes, shafts, keys, couplings
  • Linear motion systems and actuators
  • Mechanical linkages, cams and levers
  • Robotic mechanisms
  • Safety guards, enclosures and subframes
  • Automation concept development

Whether we’re modelling a drive assembly for a conveyor or designing a new piece of automated equipment, SolidWorks gives us full control over the mechanics, kinematics, clearances and manufacturability.

2. Structural Mechanical Design: Frames, Platforms & Fabrication

Mining and industrial plants rely heavily on welded structures and access systems. SolidWorks weldments excel at:

  • Platforms, walkways and stair systems
  • Equipment bases, skids and structural frames
  • Gantries, monorails and supports
  • Pipe supports and brackets
  • Structural reinforcements and upgrade scopes

Built-in cut lists, profile libraries and FEA ensure every frame is practical, safe and fabrication-ready.

3. Pressure Vessels, Tanks & Piping Systems

SolidWorks is an ideal tool for pressure-bound components and interconnected plant systems:

  • Tanks, vessels, bins and hoppers
  • Nozzles, flanges, stiffeners and ladders
  • Pipe routing and spooled sections
  • Chute systems, transitions and flow paths
  • Wear liners and maintenance-friendly redesigns

With stress linearisation, buckling analysis and accurate geometry import from LiDAR scans, we ensure designs meet engineering intent and fit up perfectly on site.

4. Sheet Metal: From Light Fabrication to Industrial Ducting

SolidWorks is the industry standard for sheet metal components:

  • Ducting and HVAC transitions
  • Guards, housings and folded enclosures
  • Electrical cabinets
  • Chute panels
  • Laser-cut and folded brackets

Automatic flat patterns and K-factor control mean fewer mistakes at the plasma/laser cutters and more predictable outcomes for fabricators.

5. Heavy Industry & Mining Equipment Modelling

Hamilton By Design’s roots in mining and heavy industry make SolidWorks invaluable for:

  • Conveyor components and guarding
  • Diverter chutes, hoppers and flow-optimised transitions
  • Bucket-wheel reclaimer parts
  • Crusher and screen upgrades
  • Dragline component modelling
  • Structural deformation/realignment scopes

Combined with LiDAR scanning, SolidWorks becomes the tool that eliminates shutdown fit-up problems.

6. Product Design & Industrial Design

SolidWorks’ surfacing and parametric tools are ideal for:

  • Consumer products
  • Power tools and ergonomic items
  • Injection-moulded components
  • Kitchen or appliance prototypes
  • Concept development for early-stage R&D

It supports rapid iterations, rendering, and export for 3D printing.

7. Robotics & Automation Systems

With the rise of automated processing and Industry 4.0, SolidWorks continues to shine in:

  • End effectors
  • Robotic arms and actuators
  • Kinematic studies
  • Sensor housings
  • Concept layouts for automated cells

We frequently pair this with our LiDAR models of existing plants to create automation solutions that genuinely fit the space.

8. Tooling, Jigs & Fixtures

Fabrication and machining rely on accurate tooling, and SolidWorks helps us design:

  • Welding jigs
  • Machining fixtures
  • Assembly tooling
  • Positioning and inspection gauges
  • Drill guides and alignment tooling

Parametric updates make future modifications simple and consistent.

9. Material Handling Systems

Across mining, ports, agriculture and waste facilities, SolidWorks supports:

  • Conveyor layouts
  • Screw and chain conveyors
  • Transfer chute redesigns
  • Feeders, bins and flow systems
  • Skids and support structures

We routinely pair mechanical redesign with simulation, checking wear patterns, stresses and clearances.

10. Reverse Engineering & As-Built Modelling from LiDAR

This is where Hamilton By Design leads the industry.

We scan sites with millimetre-level LiDAR, then rebuild clean parametric models in SolidWorks for:

  • Brownfield upgrades
  • Fit-up verification
  • Clash detection
  • Replacements and like-for-like manufacturing
  • Structural deformation assessments
  • Shutdown planning

It is the combination of LiDAR + engineering + SolidWorks that gives clients complete confidence in their next project.

How Clients Benefit from SolidWorks-Driven Mechanical Design

✔ Reduced rework

✔ Faster shutdown upgrades

✔ Accurate manufacturing drawings

✔ Better communication between engineers, fabricators and site teams

✔ Safer and more predictable installations

✔ Clear, simulation-backed decision-making

From CHPPs to ports, from power stations to manufacturing plants, SolidWorks modelling allows Hamilton By Design to deliver engineering outcomes you can trust.

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Partner With Hamilton By Design for SolidWorks Mechanical Design

We support clients across:

  • NSW (Sydney, Newcastle, Central Coast, Hunter Valley)
  • QLD (Bowen Basin, Surat Basin, Mount Isa)
  • WA (Perth, Pilbara)
  • SA, VIC and regional Australia

If your next project needs mechanical accuracy, design certainty or LiDAR-integrated engineering, our team is ready to support you.

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SolidWorks FEA Simulation

SolidWorks FEA Simulation

At Hamilton By Design, we use SolidWorks Simulation FEA to help mining, manufacturing, power generation and industrial clients make better decisions before anything is cut, welded or installed.

Whether you’re upgrading a chute, checking a pressure vessel, or validating a complex brownfield retrofit, our team can simulate real-world loads, temperatures and constraints so you know how your design will behave in service.

Why use SolidWorks FEA with Hamilton By Design?

  • Mechanical engineers with real site experience – CHPPs, conveyors, reclaimers, pressure vessels, structures and plant equipment.
  • Seamless link to 3D CAD – we model in SolidWorks, analyse in SolidWorks Simulation, then deliver fabrication-ready drawings.
  • Engineering-grade results – correct boundary conditions, meshing control and code-aligned assessment where required.
  • Clear reports for decision-makers – not just stress plots, but explanations, factors of safety and practical recommendations.

Our SolidWorks FEA Capabilities

We offer a broad range of analysis types, from straightforward linear static checks through to advanced contact, thermal and fatigue studies.

1. Linear Static & Structural Integrity

For components and assemblies under static loading:

  • Linear Static (parts and assemblies)
  • Linear Static – multi-body assemblies
  • Beam and Shell element models for frames, platforms, platework and tanks
  • Static Stress (parts)
  • Static Stress (assemblies)
  • Contacts and contact sets (bonded, no-penetration, friction etc.)
  • Large displacement behaviour for flexible or slender structures

Typical use cases:

  • Platforms, walkways, supports, frames
  • Brackets, bases, machine frames and guarding
  • Brownfield modifications and tie-ins

2. Modal, Frequency & Buckling Analysis

Understanding how structures respond to vibration and instability:

  • Frequency / Modal analysis
  • Modal / Frequency analysis (eigenfrequencies and mode shapes)
  • Buckling Analysis (eigenvalue / linear buckling)
  • Modal / Buckling studies for slender structures

Typical use cases:

  • Avoiding resonance in platforms, ducts, chutes and pipework
  • Screening structures against equipment running speeds
  • Checking risk of buckling under compressive loads

3. Thermal Analysis (Steady & Transient)

Thermal loading can be just as critical as mechanical loading. We perform:

  • Steady State Thermal analysis
  • Transient Thermal analysis
  • Coupled thermal–stress workflows (temperature → stress)

Typical use cases:

  • Hot chutes, ducts, kilns and enclosures
  • Equipment in high-temperature environments
  • Evaluating thermal gradients prior to stress assessment

4. Fatigue & Life Estimation

Assessing how long components are likely to last under cyclic loading:

  • Fatigue analysis using Stress-Life (SN curves)
  • Fatigue Analysis / Fatigue (SN Curves)
  • Fatigue – Stress-Life (SN curves) for variable loading conditions

Typical use cases:

  • High-cycle fatigue in vibrating plant and supports
  • Welded details on chutes, frames and platforms
  • Repeated loading on mechanical components

5. Drop Test & Impact-Type Events

Where equipment may be dropped, impacted or experience short-duration loads:

  • Drop Test simulations (rigid and flexible bodies)
  • Drop Test (explicit-like method within SolidWorks Simulation)

Typical use cases:

  • Handling frames, lifting devices, skids
  • Enclosures, housings and protective covers
  • Equipment subject to accidental drop or impact

6. Pressure Vessel & Stress Linearisation

We support pressure vessels and pressurised equipment with:

  • Pressure Vessel evaluation
  • Pressure Vessel / Stress Linearization for membrane and bending stress extraction
  • Assessment against design criteria (in conjunction with relevant codes/standards as required)

Typical use cases:

  • Tanks, vessels, pipework branches and nozzles
  • Pressure retaining components in process plants

7. Topology Optimisation & Design Refinement

For weight reduction and concept development:

  • Topology Optimisation for parts and sub-assemblies
  • Using optimisation results to drive manufacturable designs in SolidWorks

Typical use cases:

  • Lightweight brackets and frames
  • Concept development where weight, stiffness or cost must be balanced

8. Motion & Load Extraction

Understanding motion and using it to drive realistic FEA loads:

  • Time-based Motion studies
  • Load extraction from motion into FEA (reaction forces, accelerations, etc.)

Typical use cases:

  • Mechanisms with moving arms, linkages or tooling
  • Equipment where dynamic loads dominate over static loads

9. Advanced Contacts, Meshing & Convergence

Robust results rely on correct discretisation and contact definition. We provide:

  • Advanced Contacts (nonlinear contact behaviour, friction, separation)
  • Advanced meshing strategies for complex geometry
  • Local mesh refinement around welds, holes, notches and stress raisers
  • Mesh convergence checks for confidence in results

Reporting & Engineering Documentation

Every simulation is backed by clear, traceable documentation, including:

  • Description of the model, loads, boundary conditions and assumptions
  • Material properties and factors of safety used
  • Key plots: stress, displacement, factor of safety, temperature, modes, buckling shapes etc.
  • Fatigue life estimates where applicable
  • Mesh screenshots and convergence discussion
  • Practical engineering recommendations (e.g. increase plate thickness, add stiffeners, adjust weld details).

These reports can be issued in PDF format for internal review, client submissions or integration into your broader design dossier.

How We Work With You

  1. Define the problem – loads, constraints, operating conditions and success criteria.
  2. Build or import the CAD model – we model in SolidWorks or clean up your existing geometry.
  3. Set up the study – select the appropriate FEA type, materials, contacts and mesh.
  4. Run and refine – iterate as needed to achieve stable, converged results.
  5. Recommend improvements – we help you interpret the results and adjust the design.
  6. Deliver documentation – final models, plots and reports ready for approval or fabrication.

Discuss Your Next SolidWorks FEA Project

If you need confidence that your design will perform as intended – whether it’s a small bracket or a critical plant upgrade – our team can help.

Hamilton By Design combines SolidWorks FEA simulation with practical engineering and fabrication understanding to de-risk projects across mining, heavy industry, power generation and manufacturing.

Get in touch to discuss your next project, share a model, or explore whether FEA can help you solve a specific problem before it becomes a shutdown headache.

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Further Reading

SolidWorks

Mechanical Engineering Consulting


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Hire SolidWorks Drafter

Engineering-led SolidWorks design workflow with LiDAR scanning and fabrication drawings across Australia

Hire SolidWorks Drafter

Bring your concepts, site measurements and hand sketches to life with precise, fabrication-ready SolidWorks models and drawings. Hamilton By Design provides flexible SolidWorks drafting support so you can scale your engineering and detailing capacity without the overhead of another full-time employee.

Whether you’re a fabricator, OEM, consulting engineer, mining operation or builder, you can hire a SolidWorks drafter to step in, pick up your workflow, and deliver accurate drawings that fit first time on site.

Why Hire a SolidWorks Drafter?

Hiring a dedicated SolidWorks drafter gives you:

  • Extra capacity during peak workload – avoid bottlenecks before shutdowns, tenders or tight project deadlines.
  • Accurate 3D models and 2D drawings – reduce rework, clashes and “tape measure surprises” on site.
  • Flexible support – bring us in for a single project, a shutdown, or ongoing drafting support.
  • Reduced overheads – access professional drafting without the cost of recruitment, training and full-time salaries.
  • Integrated support with your engineers and workshop – we understand what supervisors, boilermakers and installers need on a drawing.

SolidWorks Drafting Services We Offer

When you hire a SolidWorks drafter from Hamilton By Design, you gain access to a broad range of CAD and documentation services, including:

3D Modelling

  • Parametric 3D models of mechanical parts and assemblies
  • Modelling from sketches, photos, existing drawings or LiDAR point clouds
  • Complex assemblies with correct mates, motion ranges and clear structure
  • Configurations for variants, sizes and options

2D Drafting & Detailing

  • Fabrication drawings – plates, frames, chutes, supports, tanks, conveyors and access structures
  • Machining drawings – detailed views, tolerances, hole call-outs and machining notes
  • Assembly drawings – exploded views, balloons, BOMs and clear assembly instructions
  • General arrangement (GA) drawings – layout plans, elevations and sections for site coordination

Revision & As-Built Updates

  • Update legacy AutoCAD/SolidWorks drawings into a clean, current model set
  • As-built drawings based on field measurements or 3D laser scans
  • Incorporating mark-ups from site supervisors, inspectors and engineers

Design for Fabrication & Installation

  • Drawings structured around how the workshop actually fabricates
  • Clear weld symbols, material specs and finish requirements
  • Logical transport splits, splice locations and lifting points (as per engineering direction)

Industries We Support

Our SolidWorks drafters work across a wide range of sectors, including:

  • Mining & CHPP / wash plants – chutes, conveyors, structures, tanks, access platforms
  • Quarry & hard rock processing – crushers, screens, hoppers, supports
  • Steel fabrication & manufacturing – frames, platforms, pipe supports, custom steelwork
  • Power & utilities – structural and mechanical modifications, platforms, ducting
  • Construction & building services – plant decks, supports, frames, miscellaneous metalwork
  • General engineering – jigs, fixtures, prototypes and custom machinery components

If your project involves metal, structure or machinery, you can hire a SolidWorks drafter who understands both the engineering intent and workshop reality.

How Hiring a SolidWorks Drafter Works

We keep the engagement process simple and transparent:

1. Scope & Inputs

We confirm:

  • What needs to be modelled or drafted
  • Required outputs (3D models, DXFs, fabrication drawings, GA layouts, BOMs, etc.)
  • Standards and templates to follow (your title blocks, layers, revision systems)
  • Deadlines and approval workflows

Inputs can include sketches, existing drawings, site photos, point clouds, standards and vendor data.

2. Drafting & Modelling in SolidWorks

Our drafter:

  • Builds parametric models in SolidWorks
  • Sets up assemblies with logical structure and clear naming
  • Produces drawing sheets with appropriate views, dimensions and notes
  • Checks for clashes, interferences and obvious manufacturing issues

3. Review & Mark-Ups

  • You review PDFs or eDrawings
  • We incorporate your comments, site feedback or engineering mark-ups
  • Revisions are tracked so you have a clean history of changes

4. Final Issue

  • Fabrication-ready PDFs for the workshop
  • Native SolidWorks files for your own engineering team
  • DXFs and other exports as required for plasma/laser cutting or CNC

Why Work With Hamilton By Design?

When you hire a SolidWorks drafter from Hamilton By Design, you’re not just engaging a CAD operator – you’re engaging mechanical engineering support that understands site, fabrication and shutdown pressures.

You’ll benefit from:

  • Real-world engineering experience – extensive work on CHPPs, conveyors, crushers and industrial structures
  • Attention to detail – clear part numbering, logical drawing sets and tidy models that others can easily work with
  • Alignment with your standards – we can adopt your drafting standards or help you develop them
  • Site-aware drafting – we consider access, lifting, installation and maintenance during the detailing stage
  • Integration with 3D laser scanning (if needed) – LiDAR-based as-built models to make sure your new steel actually fits
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Engage a SolidWorks Drafter Today

Need extra drafting capacity for an upcoming shutdown, tender or fabrication package?

Hamilton By Design can provide SolidWorks drafting support on a project, part-time or ongoing basis.

Get in touch today to discuss your drawings, timelines and preferred way of working, and we’ll tailor a SolidWorks drafter engagement that fits your workload and budget.

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Mechanical Engineering for Australia’s Mining Sector

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Mechanical Engineering for Australia’s Mining Sector

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Hamilton By Design brings practical mechanical engineering expertise to Australia’s mining industry — designed to help operators, maintenance teams and engineers improve reliability, meet compliance standards, and enhance on-site performance.

Mining operations demand robust mechanical systems that operate safely within tight production windows and regulatory frameworks. Our engineering approach is built on real-world understanding of mining workflows, heavy equipment mechanics and statutory requirements for above-ground and processing environments across Australia. Hamilton By Design Co.

What We Offer for Mining Clients

We deliver mechanical engineering services focused on improving plant uptime, operational safety and asset integrity, including:

  • Design & optimisation of mechanical components such as custom chutes, conveyors, wear liners and process equipment
  • Engineering support for maintenance and refurbishment, ensuring rebuilds and upgrades meet functional and compliance criteria
  • Mechanical risk evaluation and mitigation, with structured recommendations aligned to Australian mining safety standards
  • Asset inspection coordination and detailed reporting, enabling data-informed decisions for repairs or replacements
  • Documentation for fabrication and installation, including CAD models and engineering specifications tailored to site conditions

Our services are structured to support mining businesses at every stage — from early project planning to on-ground solutions that reduce unplanned outages and improve asset performance. Hamilton By Design Co.

Expertise Rooted in Industry Experience

Hamilton By Design’s mechanical engineering team combines practical site experience with advanced tooling such as 3D CAD modelling, laser scanning and engineering analysis. Whether your challenge involves enhancing mechanical reliability or integrating new equipment into an operating facility, our solutions are engineered for safety, precision and longevity. Hamilton By Design Co.

Why Partner With Us

Mining organisations choose Hamilton By Design because we:

  • Understand the specific mechanical demands of mining operations across Australia
  • Deliver compliant, build-ready engineering outcomes aligned with operational targets
  • Use advanced measurement and modelling technologies to reduce rework and site risks
  • Offer responsive engineering support tailored to your production timetable

From initial scoping through to detailed engineering documentation and implementation support, we help mining businesses solve mechanical challenges with effective, practical design solutions

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Newcastle & The Hunter Valley
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