As part of an essential upgrade scheme, Collett & Sons have successfully delivered two 160Te inlet valves to Dinorwig Hydro-Power Station.

Working on behalf of Rhenus Project Logistics, Collett has completed the first two deliveries of the project, a significant accomplishment marking a crucial milestone in the ongoing upgrade project aimed at extending the power station’s operational lifespan for the decades ahead.

A total of six valves will be delivered to complete the project, with each valve weighing 160Te and measuring 5.3m(L) x 4.7m(W) x 3.7m(H).

Before deliveries, meticulous preliminary works were completed by Collett’s dedicated Project Management and Consulting departments. This included Swept Path Analysis (SPA) reports, lashing calculations and plans, stability calculations, a comprehensive test run and route studies. During the test run, a load replicating the exact size and shape of the valves was constructed to ensure safe transportation.

The first two inlet valves arrived at the Port of Penrhyn, located East of Bangor, North Wales. Working under CPA Contract Lift Conditions, Collett discharged both valves from the vessel using an 800Te mobile crane. Ensuring secure transport, each valve was carefully lashed onto two 10-axle modular trailers.

The journey from the port to Dinorwig Hydro-Electric Power Station encompassed approximately 12 miles, with a travelling time of 3 hours. A comprehensive support system was in place throughout the transport, including full police escorts and Collett’s escort vehicles. The loaded trailers were accompanied by three 8×4 ballasted tractor units, two primary and one in support. Collett’s Permit Team obtained Special Order BE16 Permits to facilitate the move.

Upon arrival at the power station, the two main inlet valves were directly transported to a designated storage area and lowered onto stools. After later preparation, the valves were transported into the mountain and offloaded by overhead gantry cranes.

Dinorwig Hydro-Electric Power Station, located near Llanberis in the Snowdonia National Park, is the largest pumped hydroelectric storage facility in the UK. With a maximum power supply of 1,728MW and a storage capacity of approximately 10GWh, the station efficiently manages water between the Marchlyn Mawr reservoir and the Llyn Peris Lake to generate power as needed.