A nuclear power station build project was one of the first sites where the new Andrews Chiller Hire 100kW low temperature heat pump chiller unit was to be used. It would prove the perfect choice to overcoming prevailing site conditions, having the ability to automatically manage and control fluctuating temperatures during concrete encasement of the nuclear reactors.

Following an initial face-to-face meeting between an engineer from the chiller hire division of Andrews Sykes and the contractors, the decision was made to equip the site with four, 100kW low-temperature heat pumps. Each is capable of providing both hot and cold water, with the capacity to reduce temperatures to as low as -15°C.

The advantage of this compact designed unit, which is now an integral part of Andrews Chillers extensive hire fleet, is its suitability for specialist process applications where constant operational temperature is essential. Since desired cooling conditions varied at the power station, outlet water at 15°C, external temperature of 35°C and a delta T of 5°C, it was the ideal scenario for installing the new heat pump chiller.

Site surveys are part of the normal hire process, enabling Andrews Chiller Hire to gain a better understanding of an application’s unique demands, identifying loading requirements, as well as any other site requirements. It makes the whole process run much more smoothly and for the power stations, four temporary 100kW chiller units were delivered and installed within hours of that original consultation.

Site project managers estimated that temporary equipment would be needed for approximately three weeks, the lead time required to implement and pressurise concrete enclosures on site; the compounds enveloping the reactors in the nuclear power plant. Throughout the plant’s life they must be regularly checked as a safety precaution. Tightness tests are therefore essential to detect any leaks that may be present in the structure, with such measures clearly set out in nuclear facility regulations.

Once the chillers were commissioned and fully operational, contractors could begin carrying out a series of stringently controlled assessments. By processing the chiller hire order quickly and supplying the right equipment first time, Andrews was able to guarantee that the contractors could complete all tests quickly and confirm their compliance with industry legislation.

The fast response and excellent level of support given by the Andrews Chiller hire team was pinpointed as a decisive factor in the project’s swift conclusion, an endorsement Andrews Sykes is very proud of.

Andrews Sykes operates from more than 25 depots strategically located to afford quick access to any UK location and provide a true 24hr/7 day service all year round.  It has one of the most comprehensive chiller hire fleets in the UK, with units from 6kW up to 750kW and air-handlers capable of delivering up to 600kW.