On 30th November 2011, the last wheelbarrow of concrete was pushed onto the highest level of a huge cylindrical wall, completing the 20-day-long process of continuous slipforming of the second liquefied gas tank in Swinoujscie, Poland.
It took less than two months to erect the largest and the most important elements of this investment. Exceptionally efficient organization of work and application of modern technological solutions resulted in finalization of work ahead of schedule. This will allow for an earlier commencement of subsequent stages of this important investment.
The outer cylinders, which in the future will protect the cryogenic steel tanks, were raised only 8 months after laying the foundation stone symbolizing the start of construction in March this year. The walls of both tanks were formed within 2 months, in two 4-week and 24-hour marathons. Their height of 40 metres and 80 meters in diameter put the LNG tanks in Swinoujscie among the largest constructions of this kind in Europe.
It was possible thanks to application of modern technology, the experience of engineers, but also owing to the nature itself. Exceptionally favourable weather conditions that prevailed in Swinoujscie during this year’s autumn were another ally of the contractor. The last couple of days, however, proved to be particularly windy, which may herald the imminent deterioration of weather conditions that are particularly dangerous for people working at height. Therefore the final stage of works took on an enormous pace, so that the formwork, lighting and other structures could be safely removed from the top of the tank.
‘ With regard to safety of people working at height we decided to finish the construction as quickly as it was possibile ’ emphasises Zbigniew Rapciak, Chairman of the Board of Polskie LNG Plc . ‘ I must admit that we are also proud that we managed to terminate the construction ahead of schedule ’ he added.
Although the works at height are nearing completion, the contractor is preparing for the next stages of activity. In the first quarter of next year both tanks will be roofed with concrete domes.
Today the works are performed on steel components which will be pushed up inside the cylindrical structure using compressed air to become the basis for the construction of roofs.
This will be another very complicated operation which will allow to maintain a high pace of work.
The next stage of construction involves building a flyover connecting the tanks with the marine part of the terminal.
Next year experienced welders will join the construction crew to weld cryogenic steel for inner tanks in which liquefied gas is to be stored.
[mappress]
LNG World News Staff, December 5, 2011