This impressive number represents the approximate quantity of steel used for the interconnecting pipes, valves and support constructions of the Balance Of Plant (BOP) installations.
The BOP pipes were delivered to site in the form of prefabricated spools. Before this hardware was shipped, extensive expediting had been carried out directly at the prefabrication workshop of Seonghwa, the Korean based supplying company. Expediting at that early stage shall ensure that all quality criteria defined are met, and non-conformances to be fixed on site are reduced to a minimum. Although the degree of prefabrication of the piping spools and supports is very high, it goes without saying that fabrication facilities are necessary on site as well.
Among others the main challenges being present throughout the erection process were/are:
- Handling the high number of mechanical interfaces
- Complying with the complex welding procedures, especially for the high-alloy steel pipes
- Meeting the documentation requirements directed by regulation
The actual progress shows an overall percentage of completion of approximately 90% for Unit 10, and 80% for Unit 20. Erection and pressure testing is ongoing for several systems, as well as preparation works for the upcoming flushing and chemical cleaning processes carried out. Chemical cleaning is scheduled to start at the end of 03/2011 for Unit 10, and respectively at the beginning of 05/2011 for Unit 20.
Having a manpower of 144 on site, the piping team of Kremsmueller-Zauner together with the supervisors from Siemens are presently working on full load, in order to be ready for hot-commissioning by 25.04.2011 (->1st Fire, Unit 10).