ECS wins Magnox contract for Chapelcross decommissioning shielded overpacks
ECS Engineering Services has demonstrated its expertise in fabrications for the nuclear sector by winning a contract to produce 50 shielded overpacks for intermediate waste storage on behalf of Magnox Ltd. The overpacks will support the ongoing decommissioning of Chapelcross Power Station in Scotland.
“We are delighted to be awarded this contract by Magnox. With our Fit4Nuclear status and state-of-the-art fabrications department, we have supported numerous nuclear decommissioning projects throughout the UK with bespoke solutions. Contributing towards the safe and secure recovery of waste at Chapelcross is something we are very proud of,” says Steve Crapper, Precontracts Director at ECS.
Magnox, along with the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, has been responsible for the decommissioning of Chapelcross since its cessation of generation in 2004. The mild steel plate shielded overpacks will enable the clean-up of cooling ponds at the site. Waste stored in zeolite skips will be recovered and moved into the overpacks while underwater. Once drained and sealed, the overpacks will be conditioned for safe and secure storage.
ECS is a leading turnkey provider of electromechanical services for the nuclear, water and infrastructure sectors. Delivering large-scale projects nationwide for local authorities, government institutions and private companies, the business has also proven the expertise of its EXC4 accredited fabrications department by supporting the nuclear industry. Recent fabrications include duct cradles, a custom tank and pump skid for dust suppression, an access platform for the installation of thermocouples and stillage pallets.
“We have already completed and delivered 40 overpacks to specification, the first of which was thoroughly inspected and tested by Magnox,” Steve adds. “All have undergone non-destructive testing (NDT) to prove quality. Our experience on other nuclear projects means we can provide the required lifetime quality records (LTQRs) and full traceability – all paramount for nuclear applications.”