Removal of redundant 66/33kVa transformers and associated plant from 4No sites. Sub-contract works to remove the feeders and associated pilot cables from trackside locations.
Ongoing
Econ have been contracted to remove 4No redundant transformer sites, all of which have their unique access challenges.
(1) is a small site immediately off a residential road with insufficient space to operate, with previously unknown live electrical feeds with further problems caused by historic vandalism
(2) is located down an embankment in the vee between two sets of tracks with access off a road requiring a partial highway closure. Econ built a significant haul road to access the site, remove the transformer oils and then remove the transformers by shearing. The operations were challenged by the presence of multiple live electrical cables from access point to the worksite.
(3) is located in a busy operational Network Rail substation and depot. Access is via a residential road and crosses multiple shallow HV cables. The redundant transformers to be removed are located immediately adjacent vulnerable essential equipment.
(4) the last is at the end of a busy industrial estate, located between two viaducts with hundreds of surface laid cables to cross with plant and arisings.
Econ have completed two of the four sites and are about to start the 3rd.
The other part of the works include the removal of oil from the feeder cables between substations and the subsequent recovery of the feeder cables and associated pilot cables between the substations. These works are undertaken during possessions and require RRV. We have been supported in this element of the works by specialist electrical company Sonic Rail Services.
The first of many possessions was successful and we hope that follow-on possessions in week 14, 15 & 19 run as smoothly.
The Coronavirus Pandemic hit whilst we were on the second of the transformer sites. Works were temporarily stood down by our client, but resumed 4-weeks later. Our control measures have been recognised favourably by our client.
Transformer works:
Excellent Demo supervisor
Excellent plant operator (35t Excavator)
CCDO operatives
Sub-contract HVCP
Sub-contract COSS
Cable Recovery
COSS’s
PTS staff
Econ HGV Skip lorry driver
Level A & HV Comp staff, NG trained staff with Confined space training
Civils staff
As above
35t Excavator with dedicated shear
Our Client is extremely pleased at the way we, supported by Econ, have dealt with the situation. From the moment you confirmed that notifiable asbestos was present, a focused, concerted effort has been made by Econ to deal with the problem. The client was impressed at the speed in which Econ tabled a strategic proposal to the HSE to remove the asbestos, working 24/7 non-stop, to expedite the removal. The fact that the proposal, including approval by the HSE, was achieved in such a short timescale is credit to Econ. The proactive approach, while being flexible and accommodating to allow key ECR staff to work in a safe, isolated contained area, has really impressed the Network Rail team.
