NASA's Mobile Launcher 2 (ML2): Connections Built to Launch

This presentation examines the unique structural challenges encountered in NASA's Mobile Launcher 2 (ML2) and the pivotal role cast steel connections played in integrating large hollow structural section (HSS) members within one of the world's most demanding launch support structures. Faced with extreme loading conditions and stringent weight restrictions, the project demanded innovative connection solutions beyond traditional fabricated steel approaches.

Attendees will gain insight into engineering and constructability considerations associated with connecting HSS members in this critical aerospace application, as well as how steel castings helped achieve demanding requirements for strength, durability, and precision. Through this ML2 case study, the presentation will demonstrate how cast steel connections reduced overall steel tonnage, enhanced structural performance, and introduced modular solutions while improving tolerance.

Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the value of combining cast steel technology with HSS construction and the opportunities for addressing complex design and constructability challenges.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the structural challenges associated with the Mobile Launcher 2 (ML2) tower and the role of cast steel nodes in addressing complex load paths and connection geometries.
• Explain how custom designed cast steel nodes and flange fittings simplified the fabrication and erection of the modular assemblies of the tower when compared to conventionally fabricated steel connections.
• Assess the impact of steel castings on strength, stiffness, weight, constructability, and overall performance of complex structural steel connections.

Location

Cliff Dwellers Club
200 S. Michigan Ave, 22nd Floor
Chicago, IL 60604

Menu

Cream of Mushroom Soup

Grilled Chicken Piccata with Lemon Caper Sauce

Hot Apple Tart

Cocktail hour:  5 – 6 pm

Presentation and dinner time:  6:00 – 7:00 pm

Registration

In Person:   Member - $75;  Non-Member - $115
Live Streaming:  Member - $35;  Non-Member - $50

Deadline for In Person registration: 11/24/2026 at noon.

About the Speaker

Jacinda Collins, PE, LEED Green Associate
Engineer, Technical Sales,Technical Content Lead, CAST CONNEX

Jacinda Collins, is the Technical Sales Engineer + Technical Content Lead for CAST CONNEX. She provides cast steel connection solutions and architecturally exposed structural steel (AESS) guidance for the design and construction community. She is also responsible for the development and quality control of technical content that educates and influences national and international audiences about CAST CONNEX products and services.

Jacinda previously worked as a Senior Structural Steel Specialist at the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) and as a Forensic Graduate Engineer for HDR, Inc. She earned her BS in Architectural Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin and is a licensed engineer in the state of Texas.

She is a former chair of the Marketing & Communications Committee and member of the Board of Directors for the Washington Building Congress (WBC). She served as an active member of the Structural Engineers Association of Illinois (SEAOI) Young Engineers Committee, and she is currently highly involved with the Structural Engineers Association of New York (SEAoNY) and serves as the SEAoNY Delegate for the National Council of Structural Engineers Associations (NCSEA).

THANKS TO THE GENEROUS SUPPORT OF OUR SPONSOR for this dinner meeting: