Union Pacific Long Rail Welding Facility

Union Pacific is the first in the rail industry to import long rail from Japan, which is delivered to its facility at the Port of Stockton. Diede Construction was selected as the design-build contractor on this multi-prime contractor project to deliver custom welding facilities. Diede designed and constructed three structures to accommodate a one-of-a-kind operation, wherein 420-foot lengths of rail are welded into units measuring 1680 feet in length. The structures included facilities for the welding and inspection operations as well as a conveyor system canopy. The uniqueness of the operation as well as the multitude of parties associated with the overall facility development presented many challenges. However, Diede proved to be an integral component of the successful completion of the Long Rail Facility as the original scope of work increased to include assisting other prime contractors with work on the rail storage structure, cranes, and extensive electrical work to bring the welding and conveyance equipment into production.