VALE
Efficient Inspection and Cleaning of Nickel Decomposition Vessel
Client: Vale
Location: South Wales, UK
Services Required:
- Confined Space Operations and Planning
- Rope Access Cleaning
- Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement (UTM) Inspection
- Detailed Reporting and Compliance
VALE
Introduction
In the realm of industrial maintenance, effective and safe access methods are crucial for optimising operational efficiency and ensuring compliance with safety standards. This case study examines a project undertaken by Sutro Group on behalf of Vale, focusing on the cleaning and non-destructive testing (NDT) of a nickel decomposition vessel. The project employed advanced techniques, including rope access and confined space operations, to minimise costs and maximise productivity.
Benefits and Savings
By avoiding scaffolding, Sutro Group reduced material and labour costs associated with erecting and dismantling scaffold structures.
The rope access method allowed for quicker mobilisation and execution of the cleaning and inspection processes, resulting in substantial time savings.
Implementing rope access techniques mitigated the risks associated with scaffolding, enhancing overall safety for the workforce.
The efficient execution of tasks ensured that production downtime was kept to a minimum, thereby supporting Vale’s operational continuity.
Project Overview
The project involved cleaning the interior of the nickel decomposition vessel, followed by the execution of an Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement (UTM) inspection. The workflow was structured as follows:
- Preparation: Sutro Group’s team conducted thorough planning, ensuring all safety protocols were established for confined space operations.
- Rope Access Cleaning: Skilled technicians employed rope access techniques to effectively clean the vessel’s interior. This method provided direct access to hard-to-reach areas, significantly improving cleaning efficacy.
- UTM Inspection: After cleaning, a qualified technician was deployed to perform detailed Ultrasonic Thickness Measurements. The absence of scaffolding allowed for seamless transitions between cleaning and inspection, optimising the workflow.
- Reporting: Documentation of the entire process, including a detailed report was compiled, ensuring traceability and compliance with industry standards.
Conclusion
The Sutro Group project for Vale exemplifies how innovative access methods can lead to significant benefits in industrial cleaning and inspection operations. By leveraging rope access and confined space techniques, Sutro Group not only achieved substantial cost and time savings but also enhanced safety and operational efficiency. The successful completion of this project reinforces the value of utilising modern techniques in challenging environments, setting a precedent for future projects in the industry.
For more information on how Sutro Group can optimise your inspection processes, contact us today:
0800 069 9395
info@sutrogroup.co.uk
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