Aug 2012 - Aug 2012
Nuclear Management Partners
Sellafield Steel Refurbishment – WAGR Dome & Link Bridge
GABE undertook major Sellafield steel refurbishment works to the Windscale Advanced Gas-Cooled Reactor (WAGR) Dome and Link Bridge for Nuclear Management Partners. The £1.9 million project commenced in January 2010, and GABE completed the works in August 2012.
The comprehensive restoration contract involved major steel and metal repairs. In addition, GABE refurbished the dome walkway, link bridge steelwork, cladding, roof elements and WAGR wind girders.
Specialist Access and Containment
Due to the scale of the structure, GABE required specialist access to complete the works safely. GABE provided and erected scaffolding and work platforms across the WAGR Dome. The access system reached heights of up to 40 metres.
In addition, GABE installed heat-retractable, fire-retardant EnviroWrap sheeting to sections of the dome. The containment system prevented blast residue and dust from escaping the work areas.
The scale and complexity of the structure presented a significant access challenge. However, the specialist scaffold solution allowed GABE to carry out the refurbishment works throughout the WAGR Dome.
Sellafield Steel Refurbishment and Structural Repairs
GABE also grit blasted more than 1,200m² of the structure. The team prepared key sections to SA2.5 standard using JBlast Supa copper slag blasting medium.
Due to the nature and location of the works, the team regularly checked blast residue for contamination. In particular, these checks looked for traces of radiation and lead.
Furthermore, GABE carried out major steel replacement works. Several structural elements within the Link Bridge and Equator Girder/Walkway required replacement. As part of these works, GABE used welding and Oxy-Propane cutting techniques.
Protective Coating System
Following the steel repairs and surface preparation, GABE applied a complex protective coating system.
The system included an Epoxy High Build Mid Coat and Acrylic Urethane Gloss Finish. Furthermore, GABE applied the coatings by airless spray and brush to ISO 12944-5:2007 standard.
Working in a Highly Controlled Environment
GABE delivered the Sellafield steel refurbishment within a highly controlled environment. Therefore, every GABE operative had to obtain strict security clearance before entering the site.
In addition, the project operated under rigorous health and safety controls throughout the works.
Explore more of GABE’s specialist infrastructure refurbishment projects across the UK and Ireland.
