Conceptual Design

Conceptual Design for Industrial Projects

Conceptual Design provides structured early-stage engineering used to define and evaluate new facilities, plant expansions, equipment additions and system upgrades.

Early-Phase Engineering Definition for Industrial Projects

At Cortex, conceptual design is grounded in process engineering and supported by early technical analysis. The goal is to provide clients with a defined technical path supported by preliminary layouts, utility assessments and budget-level cost development.

Evaluate Existing Conditions & Constraints

We assess current facility and site conditions to establish real constraints before scope is finalized. Early identification of limitations prevents scope changes later in the project.

Capabilities include:

  • Site and facility assessments
  • Early use of 3D scanning to confirm existing conditions and support future work
  • Utility capacity evaluation (electrical, steam, compressed air, water, gas)
  • Review of existing process systems and infrastructure
  • Identification of code and regulatory considerations

Define Process & System Requirements

We work with stakeholders to develop preliminary process flow diagrams, outline equipment requirements and establish throughput and performance targets. Preliminary layouts and flow diagrams are developed to establish technical direction.

Capabilities include:

  • Process flow diagram (PFD) development
  • Preliminary piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs)
  • Equipment identification and preliminary sizing
  • Utility load list development
  • Preliminary control narrative development

Develop Layout Options & Integration Concepts

Preliminary layouts evaluate space constraints, tie-in strategies, utility routing, and constructability within operating facilities or new sites. If multiple approaches are possible, we develop and compare each option for impact and feasibility.

Capabilities include:

  • Equipment layout studies and options analysis
  • Utility routing concepts
  • Structural and foundation considerations
  • Tie-in planning for active facilities

Development of Budgetary Costs & Schedules

Using defined scope and preliminary engineering, we develop rough order of magnitude (ROM) or appropriation-grade estimates appropriate to the project stage. Estimates are supported by early quantity development and equipment allowances aligned with the proposed design.

Capabilities include:

  • Budget-level cost estimates
  • Preliminary material quantity development
  • Equipment budget allowances
  • Schedule assumptions for planning

Stage-Gate Project Execution

Conceptual Design provides the documentation and technical clarity required to move into the next engineering phases. Defined scope, cost expectations and identified risks allow teams to determine whether to proceed, revise scope or pause the project before moving forward.

Capabilities include:

  • Documentation for capital planning
  • Identify client approval milestones. 
  • Technical feasibility confirmation
  • Identification of project risks
  • Initial project budgets and schedules 
Industries

Who This Service Supports

Conceptual Design supports industrial and process-driven environments where early clarity is critical to successful execution.

Testimonials

Why Clients Choose Cortex

I have worked with Cortex for about 15 years. They have done lots of 3D design work, including for an $11MM HDPE reactor debottleneck and a $30MM waste treatment plant. They bring a great skill set to these projects and are agile and able to adjust to changing conditions."
Principal Project Manager
Their use of the latest technology in producing these packages across multiple disciplines provides exacting details to reduce scope changes and field busts thus reducing the total installed costs of projects. The long-term relationship that we have developed with Cortex provides an experienced background that is influential in bringing project to a successful conclusion."
Project Manager
They provide timely updates, openly discuss challenges and options, and make it easy for stakeholders to understand.They proactively identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising system performance or reliability."
Project Engineer
Most recently, I had Cortex develop FEL2/3 estimates for six Turnaround projects (three MCC replacements and three piping/ structural projects). All of these projects were well within the error band comparedto when we developed estimates after detailed engineering. I have been pleased with the work that Cortex has performed for me over the years."
Principal Project Manager
Working with Cortex has been exceptional across every phase of the project. Their dedication to transparency, thorough scope development, and clear communication builds confidence from day one.They take the time to understand every operational requirement, clearly define deliverables, and lay out realistic expectations to minimize risk, prevent scope creep, and ensures everyone starts the project aligned."
Project Engineer
Cortex has a long history of being instrumental in developing both turnaround and non turnaround capital projects. We have used Cortex to develop competent IFC drawing packages and estimates from scope descriptions."
Project Manager
They have a strong understanding of our internal engineering standards. They consistently uphold internal specifications, industry best practices, and quality expectations in every aspect of design, programming, documentation, and implementation."
Project Engineer