Chemson Naftoplant

Project Overview

MGL Demolition served as the Principal Contractor for the decommissioning and dismantling the Naftoplant at Wallsend, Tyne and Wear. A deep pre-clean of the plant, building, and all equipment was undertaken. Selected items were carefully decommissioned, dismantled, and shipped overseas for reuse by Chemson. All redundant plant and equipment were demolished, while the building was retained for future use.

Challenges

The project presented several challenges, including working within a live building and managing the decommissioning and dismantling of equipment in potentially explosive atmospheric conditions. The varied and complex configuration of the plant required meticulous planning and coordination for lifting operations, which involved mobile cranes, special hoists, and access equipment.

Safety

Safety was a top priority throughout the project. All dust was cleaned in controlled conditions, and plant and equipment were selected in accordance with explosive atmosphere requirements.

The required disconnections to remove assets were undertaken using cold techniques, hand tool disconnection, pneumatic impact drivers, and Fein saws to ensure safety within the potentially explosive conditions. Following asset recovery and dust removal, the final areas selected for demolition were removed using demolition excavators fitted with shear and sorting grapple attachments.

Summary

MGL Demolition completed the project, overcoming challenges related to working within a live building and managing potentially explosive conditions. The project prioritised safety and sustainability, with selected equipment reused overseas and the building retained for future use. The meticulous planning and coordination by the MGL Demolition contracts team ensured the successful completion of the project.