Custom 6061 Aluminum Platform Fabrication for CyrusOne Data Center

How MSSW Delivered a Mission-Critical Structural Solution for PTS Data Center Solutions in Durham, NC

When a data center demands precision, there is no room for compromise. MSSW — Miscellaneous Stainless & Steel Works — recently completed a custom 6061 aluminum platform installation at a CyrusOne data center facility in Durham, North Carolina, in partnership with general contractor PTS Data Center Solutions. The result was a structurally sound, code-compliant, inspector-ready platform built to handle the demands of one of the most critical infrastructure environments in commercial construction.

Why 6061 Aluminum Is the Right Choice for Data Center Fabrication

Material selection is everything in a data center environment. MSSW specified 6061 aluminum for this project — and for good reason.

6061 aluminum delivers a combination of properties that no other material matches in this application:

• Corrosion resistance — eliminates rust risk in high-humidity server environments

• Non-magnetic properties — zero interference with sensitive electrical and server systems

• High strength-to-weight ratio — handles full equipment and personnel loads without adding unnecessary dead weight to the structure

• Weldability and machinability — allows for tight tolerances and clean, precise fabrication

For data centers like CyrusOne — where uptime, safety, and long-term structural integrity are non-negotiable — 6061 aluminum is the professional standard.

From Temporary Wood Structure to Permanent Aluminum Platform

When MSSW arrived on site, a temporary wood structure was serving as a stand-in access platform. The scope of work was clear: remove the temporary structure and replace it with a fully engineered, permanent aluminum solution.

The completed platform included:

• Full diamond-plate aluminum deck for a clean, durable walking surface

• OSHA-compliant pipe rail system welded from structural aluminum

• Stair access with anti-slip diamond-plate treads for safe, code-compliant entry and exit

• Structural aluminum frame with full-perimeter box beam construction

• Anchor-bolted connections fastened directly to the concrete slab

Every component was fabricated in-house at MSSW's North Carolina shop before being transported and installed on site — a streamlined process that minimized disruption to the active construction environment.

Custom Metal Fabrication Built for Commercial and Institutional Projects

This CyrusOne project is one example of the custom fabrication work MSSW delivers for general contractors, developers, and owners across the Southeast. From stainless steel to aluminum to mild steel, MSSW handles complex, specification-driven scopes that demand AWS-certified craftsmanship and reliable scheduling.

Whether the project requires platforms, stair systems, railings, equipment supports, or specialty structural components — MSSW has the capability and the track record to deliver.

Work With a Metal Fabricator Who Gets It Done Right

If your next commercial or institutional project requires custom metal fabrication, MSSW is ready to help from concept through installation.

Contact MSSW today at msswllc.com to discuss your project requirements, request a quote, or learn more about our capabilities. Based in North Carolina — building for clients across the region.