E.ON Energy

Rubb worked with AJS Contracts Ltd to provide its tallest structure to date and first biomass fuel processing and storage facility to energy giant E.ON UK. The 31.5m span x 137.5m long building at Ironbridge Power Station, Shropshire, UK, has an apex height of 21m. The roof provides rigidity with minimal deflection, providing stability and support for a 200 ton roof-mouted conveyor system used for the dispersal of biomass fuel products. The wood pellet processing facility features a roof pitch of 35° which was designed around the angle of repose of the biomass materials. Ironbridge was previously a coal fired power station that has been converted to run on biomass fuel. It is the first of its kind in the UK. The UK based Rubb team was readily available to provide advice, support, recommendations, site visits and ongoing solutions regarding the challenges that arose during the project. These included structure height, weight loadings, access and custom door designs. The company also met with AJS/E.ON requirements that all elements of the biomass facility were to be designed and manufactured in the UK. The steel framework of the building is hot dipped galvanised to protect it from corrosion. Galvanising is the process of metallurgically bonding a tough coating of zinc to the steel surface. The frame is clad with polyester woven base cloth covered on both sides by PVC and coated by a PVDF finish. "Rubb Buildings supported us throughout all aspects of the project from initial concept design to construction completion. It was clear from the outset that Rubb were determined to deliver what was their most challenging build ever in the most professional way possible on a project that had an almost impossible timescale. "Working on a renewable energy project in the UK brings its own challenges, however, combine this with constructing within a world heritage site of which Ironbridge is, really increases the need and focus to operate efficiently and to achieve a build that is aesthetically pleasing. The real breath of fresh air for AJS was to work with a UK turnkey contractor, a company who can design, manufacture and install the complete package, providing auditable quality procedures and more importantly an excellent understanding of UK Health, Safety and Environmental regulations removes additional pressure from the principle contracting team. "Rubb Buildings have developed a biomass facility that can be rolled out globally across the renewable industry sector and AJS Contracts would be more than happy to recommend their services to any prospective client." Martin Wylie | AJS Contracts Ltd, Renewable Energy Divisional Manager

For more information on E.ON Energy talk to Rubb Buildings Ltd