The Formby Grid Substation in Lancashire forms part of the Aintree – Formby – Litherland – Southport 33Kv group. Due to an existing fault level issue with the group, a second 60 MVA 132/33Kv grid had to be installed at the Formby Grid Substation, which is run by Scottish Power Energy Network. The upgrade of the substation included a requirement for the building to be blast proof so as to protect against possible explosions, taking into account the additional transformer.
Sharpfibre’s extensive knowledge of blast rated Durasteel barriers provided the client and his team with the confidence to commit to what was an extremely challenging delivery programme. Working in partnership with the structural steel installation specialist Touchline Fabrications, Sharpfibre constructed two new transformer Blast Barrier Walls - 8.0m high x 25.0m long and 8.0m high x 36.0m long.
The barriers were designed to withstand a 10Kpa blast pressure loading. As the barriers were to be completely external, the design also required the need to provide wind loading and external environmental conditions.
Despite the challenging project, Sharpfibre, working closely with Touchline Fabrications, were able to design a system that reduced the overall build period by 20%. This was achieved through engineering solutions such as pre-fabricated connection cleats, pre-drilled members and supports at dimensions to suit the Durasteel panels, therefore reducing cutting and material wastage.
This approach to the project enabled the substation upgrade works package to be completed ahead of the allotted time periods demanded by the client and avoid further disruption to the local power network.
Works began in September 2013 and were completed in November 2013.
