Automated UHP Surface Preparation

Project Overview

Altrad were requested to carry out surface preparation work to remove old cladding and paint from a storage sphere. The work was required to allow inspection and repair of the damaged coatings. The Dow Silicones site operates under its own life critical standards, these prevent the use of conventional manual hydroblastingfor high-risk activities. The task was further complicated by the working being at height and the size of the access scaffold restricting the safe distance we could deploy the lead operative to control the equipment. The specific nature of the areas that need cleaning also required good line of sight between the lead op in control of the Striker.

Efficiency & Innovation

Altrad proposed using a track driven striker (Pictured top right). The striker is a pneumatically driven automated tool that not only improves efficiency by enabling the user to operate at higher pressures, it also greatly improves the safety of the task removing operatives from the line of fire and can be controlled remotely using an umbilical or wireless technology.

Due to access restrictions and need to keep the operative close to manoeuvre the machine, the task was classed as semi-automated but full automation is achievable with future planning.

The lead operative was still able to retreat 4m to the end of the scaffold, a safe distance from the jet nozzle and the UHP feed hoses, out of the line of fire. PPE was also upgraded as a precaution whilst operating the striker.

The Outcome

The work was completed to standard and within the estimated timeframe for the completion.

Client Testimonial

“An excellent piece of equipment and definitely worth the effort to remove the manual element and safety risks associated with UHP”

Dow Senior EHS Delivery Leader