Case Study: Swift Electrical Recovery for Agricultural AD Plant in Scotland
Background
BioContractors were contacted by an agricultural anaerobic digestion (AD) plant based in Scotland after a digestate spillage occurred due to a split in the pipework. The spillage resulted in significant damage to the electrical controls, including PLC cards, soft starters, relays, VIPA cards, and wiring. The plant experienced a loss of function, which posed a risk to ongoing operations. The client required an urgent response to diagnose the damage and restore the plant to full functionality as quickly as possible.
Our Approach:
Upon receiving the call, BioContractors promptly deployed our team to the site. The first step involved comprehensive electrical testing to identify the full extent of the damage. Our experienced electrical engineer conducted the initial investigation, revealing extensive damage to the electrical components. This led to the creation of a detailed action plan for replacing over 50 electrical components.
Client: Agricultural Anaerobic Digestion (AD) Plant,
Project: Digestate Spillage and Electrical Component Replacement
Duration: Less Than 72 Hours of Downtime
Key Task Performed
Diagnosis and Action Plan:
Our team conducted a thorough assessment and developed a clear strategy for restoring the plant’s electrical systems.
Component Replacement:
Key electrical components, including PLC cards, soft starters, relays, VIPA cards, and wiring, were replaced. Thanks to our extensive critical spare inventory, many of the parts were immediately available on-site, minimizing delays. The remaining components were quickly dispatched by our trusted supplier, ensuring no interruptions to the repair process.
Team Collaboration:
Initially, one electrical engineer led the investigation, but due to the extent of the repairs, a second electrical engineer was brought in to support the timely completion of the work. The coordination between our engineers and the back-office team ensured seamless delivery of components and effective problem-solving on the ground.
Successes
Health and Safety:
Throughout the entire intervention, BioContractors adhered to strict health and safety protocols to ensure the safety of our team and the integrity of the plant.
Client Communication:
From the moment we arrived on-site, we established communication with the plant’s management and our service coordinator. We kept the client informed throughout the process, advising them on the replacement of the electrical cabinets due to the substantial damage. We also highlighted the potential risks of further failures if the damage was not addressed immediately.
Outcome
Our engineers worked diligently, often putting in extended hours, to complete the work in under 72 hours. This effort ensured that the plant was fully operational with minimal downtime, allowing the client to resume operations as quickly as possible.
Conclusion
BioContractors' swift response and thorough approach resulted in the quick restoration of the plant, minimising downtime and ensuring long-term reliability. Our ability to source critical spare parts and mobilise an experienced team was key to the rapid recovery of the site, and our dedication to safety and clear communication ensured a smooth and successful intervention.
