Shewalton WWPS

Key Achievements

• Extensive Fabrication: Both lines required rotation by 11 degrees, necessitating extensive fabrication, including two transition pieces and a 90-degree feed to the suction side of the pump.
• Successful Refurbishment: The refurbishment was made viable through these modifications.

Challenges Faced

• Location: The site was approximately 10 metres below ground level in a potentially explosive environment and confined space.
• Structural Modifications: Existing steelwork, support beams, and access platforms had to be altered to facilitate the works.
• Material Access: Access was via a 2-metre square void, requiring intricate lifting procedures and manual mechanised methods due to the unsuitability of the overhead crane.

Innovative Solutions

• Manual Lifting Methods: Utilised A-frames, chain blocks, and hoists for lifting operations.
• Intricate Lifting Procedures: Implemented detailed lifting plans to manoeuvre the new vertical pipe riser and install a new tied flange to interface with existing pipework.

Stakeholder Involvement

• Client PRC: Jordan Davidson
• A&L Project Manager : Tom Miller
• Site Supervisor: Ross Cowan
• Design and Site Management: WGM Engineering
• Lifting Operations: WGM / A&L

Environmental and Safety Measures

• DSEAR Compliance: Forced ventilation and extraction to mitigate risks in the potentially explosive environment.
• Confined Space Management: Monitoring and management of warm temperatures and physical hazards within the confined space.

Lessons Learnt

• Early Involvement: Offering specialist services at the design stage to avoid unforeseen issues.
• Quality Welding: External NDT testers praised the welding quality, noting it as some of the best they had ever seen.

Additional Notes

Both the A&L site and fabrication teams delivered excellent outcomes for the client despite challenging timescales, environments, and working conditions.