This week we recycled wood from a deck remodel project to COGGS, "Cyclists of Gitchee Gumee Shores," a volunteer organization of bicyling enthusiasts in the Duluth area. The lumber will be used primarily for sections of trail that need bridges and boardwalks.
We feel great when used materials can find a new home, and area cyclists benefit from the good work COGGS is doing in Duluth and along the North Shore.
See what COGGS is up to:
http://www.coggs.com/index.php
Meteek was featured in a PEW foundation project highlighting energy leadership from various businesses in Minnesota. "Economic and Job Growth Starts with Policy" is their nationwide effort to influence energy policymakers to adpot energy policies that create jobs and attract private investment.
Andy Hoffmann, Laura Larson, Randy Larson and Molly in the Meteek meadow
You can go to the link below and click on Minnesota to see the feature on Meteek:
http://www.pewenvironment.org/news-room/other-resources/economic-and-job-grow...
This week we put up a new screen in the Machine Shop event space at Clyde Iron. Designed by Randy, the screen takes its cues from the massive beams in the building that was originally used as an ironworks. An enormous gantry crane once ran the length of the room that is now used for receptions, movies and concerts.
Using 20" x 4" glue lam beams, the frame was constructed with a concealed system so that the screen could be stretched flat once the frame was mounted on the wall.
The performance of windows and wall sections has been our focus with projects that we build, remodel, or supply. With an annual temperature variance of at least 120°F, our climate challenges the best materials on the market. When we can't find a material that will stand up to conditions, we create solutions to fit the job.
Working with five students in Civil Engineering at the University of Minnesota Duluth, Meteek offered the assignment of buidling a "hot box" to test the thermal qualities of window and wall sections, as well as individual materials. These students took the idea and ran, building, wiring and writing the programming for this testing instrument as their combined senior projects.
We attended their project presentation this week and were treated to a demonstration. The material to be tested is clamped into place. A program runs a freezer on one side and an oven on the other create the thermocline necessary for the test. Results are recorded for each testing cycle.
A win-win project, the Hot Box was a success for the students who built a "real-life" project for an actual client, and a success for Meteek to continue innovating solutions for our tough climate. Congratulations!
