Project Update at Tyndall Air Force Base: Hangar Door Installation Progress

Mark MacDonald

Mark MacDonald, a University of Mississippi graduate, is the Owner and CEO of Well Bilt Industries, a leader in aircraft hangar door manufacturing for nearly 40 years. Under his leadership, the company has expanded from bottom rolling hangar doors to include bifold and single panel hydraulic doors. Mark’s focus on quality has propelled WELL BILT into agriculture, marine, industrial, and residential markets, with all products manufactured using high-quality steel and UL-listed parts at their Ocala, Florida facility.

Installation work continues to advance at Tyndall Air Force Base as crews make steady progress on multiple aircraft hangar door systems. What began as early structural work has now moved into full-scale assembly, coordinated lifting operations, and final system integration. Each of these phases plays a critical role in ensuring long-term performance, reliability, and safe operation of the doors.

Ground Assembly and Structural Preparation

During this phase, crews completed large-scale door section assembly on the ground. This approach allows for precise alignment and structural accuracy before the components are lifted into place.

Field welding was a key part of this process, creating strong and consistent connections throughout the framing system. This foundational work is essential because it directly impacts how smoothly the doors install and perform once operational.

Coordinated Lifting and Door Installation

As assembly progressed, the team moved into coordinated lifting operations using cranes and telehandlers to position the door sections. Due to the size and weight of these structures, each lift required constant communication and precise control.

Every section was carefully rigged and guided into position to ensure proper alignment with the hangar opening and supporting structure. This level of coordination is critical to achieving a successful installation.

A major milestone during this phase was the successful lifting and hanging of all three door systems. With each door now in place, the project has transitioned from structural installation into final system integration.

Structural Reinforcement and Detail Work

Crews continued detailed structural work, including header welding using plug weld techniques to reinforce connections between structural members. This process strengthens the overall framing system and ensures it can properly transfer loads under demanding operational conditions.

To achieve a precise and weather-tight installation, crews also performed top bar grinding to field-fit components and eliminate gaps. This level of attention to detail helps prevent sunlight, wind, and moisture intrusion, improving both environmental control inside the hangar and long-term system performance.

Hydraulic System Installation

Another key milestone in this phase was the installation of hydraulic hardlines across the top of the doors. These hardlines are essential for system operation, allowing hydraulic fluid to be evenly distributed to both sides of the door.

This balanced distribution ensures smooth movement, consistent performance, and reliable operation over time, which is especially important in high-demand aviation environments.

Ongoing Progress and Project Impact

Progress at Tyndall Air Force Base continues to demonstrate the importance of skilled field execution, strong engineering coordination, and attention to detail at every stage of installation.

From ground-level fabrication to final placement and system integration, each step moves the project closer to delivering high-performance hangar door systems designed to support aircraft operations and long-term mission readiness.

Projects like this highlight the value of precision installation and proven systems in demanding environments.

If you are planning a hangar door installation or upgrade, our team is ready to support your project with solutions built for performance, reliability, and long-term success.