ABOUT THE PROJECT
Merkland Tank were contracted by our manufacturing client to carry out confined space pipe cleaning within their production site’s Wet Electrostatic Precipitator (WESP) system, required to remove internal build-up and optimise the system’s performance and flow efficiency.
The WESP system is an advanced waste-air purification system that uses electrostatic forces to remove fine particulate matter, aerosols, and acid mists from industrial exhaust gases produced by dryers in the wood processing industry. The system is vital in preventing harmful gases being released into the atmosphere and ensures manufacturers meet strict safety, environmental and regulatory standards.
THE SOLUTION
Merkland Tank’s objective was to reduce manual handling by our team inside the confined space by deploying a fully automated pipe cleaning solution.
Our team of confined space entry and rescue trained operatives used the versatile AutoBox ProDrive system to carry out the pipe cleaning works. The system is comprised of a hose tractor, various sized rotary nozzles (for cleaning straight and bent pipework), and a handheld control box for remote operation. This allowed for precise movement and water jetting within the confined space, making it safer and more efficient than hand lancing during this project.
The centraliser ensured balanced nozzle positioning throughout the cleaning cycle, preventing any internal damage to the pipes and delivering more consistent cleaning.
CHALLENGES
Pipe cleaning in WESP systems presents significant operational challenges, particularly as the WESP system required a complete, safe shutdown before we could start the cleaning. After shutdown, we had a tight time-frame to complete the works.
In addition, the very nature of confined space cleaning makes it a high-risk environment that requires careful planning, appropriate risk management and an experienced team to undertake the work.
THE OUTCOME
Merkland Tank successfully completed the full internal clean of our client’s pipe network within the WESP system safely, to the highest standards and within agreed timescales. This will ensure the WESP system continues to operate at maximum efficiency to maintain our client’s high environmental standards.
PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS
- Utilisation of automated technology
- Precise and consistent pipe cleaning
- Reduced manual handling for operatives
- Confined space entry and rescue
- Completed within tight time constraints
- WESP system operating at maximum efficiency