Jet Aire sent a team of experienced engineers to clean a 500m-long, 250cm-diameter drainpipe containing compressed carbon dust, accumulated as part of the site’s industrial waste. The potentially hazardous operation was further complicated by the absence of manholes which required the company to open up the pipe to allow access for a WAMMAX specialist milling cutter. The WAMMAX incorporates a diamond tipped grinding head that rotates under high pressure water, removing obstacles such as hard built-up concrete and debris. The programme of works has been safely completed, on time and within budget.

Jet Aire Services Director, Keith Ferris, said: “Continual investment in specialist training is vital for drainage companies seeking to maximise their market growth, especially with regard to the particular demands of sectors such as energy and chemical production. This investment applies not only to safe industry practice, but also to the use of new technologies. Both factors applied at Drax Power Station – our engineers are trained in operating within sites which are subject to Control of Major Accident Hazards Regulations, providing the skills to handle the risks involved in this project, and we recently worked with one of our equipment suppliers to train staff in the safe and effective use of the WAMMAX milling cutter, which enabled us to carry out the work.”