Controlled demolition of an 80-meter-high flare stack in the Philippines.
Within an active industrial site, DDM carried out the safe and controlled dismantling of a 120-ton flare stack. Thanks to detailed engineering, strict safety measures, and specialized equipment, the structure was successfully brought down within the predetermined drop zone.
The controlled demolition of this 80-meter-high flare stack formed an essential part of a large-scale industrial decommissioning project in the Philippines. With a total weight of approximately 120 tons and its location within an active industrial environment, this project required a well-considered approach, in-depth engineering, and maximum safety control. Thanks to a carefully developed demolition strategy, the flare stack was safely and controllably brought down within the predetermined drop zone.
Prior to execution, a comprehensive technical analysis was carried out, fully mapping the structural characteristics of the flare installation. Based on this analysis, a controlled cutting sequence was designed and the exact fall direction and impact zone were determined. Strict safety perimeters and environmental protection measures were implemented to minimize risks to the surroundings and all involved parties. Weather conditions and environmental factors were continuously monitored to ensure optimal safety throughout the works.
The demolition activities were carried out using specialized equipment, including excavators fitted with scrap shears and sorting grapples, a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP), and certified burners for precision cutting. By systematically weakening the structure at predetermined release points, the flare stack was brought down according to plan and under full control.
Following the controlled fall, the steel structure was further reduced at ground level and processed into manageable sections for transport and recycling. All steel components were carefully separated and prepared for high-quality material recovery. This project highlights DDM’s expertise in complex industrial demolition, controlled dismantling, and sustainable decommissioning within operational industrial environments.
The Quality and Health, Safety and the Environment policy is an ongoing process. That is why DDM is continuously working on improving all these areas to keep improving safety levels.
DDM was rewarded with a World Demolition Award in the Civils category.
Removing 5 arch bridges over the Amsterdam Rhine Canal was an intensive job. The schedule was tight and the expectations of all employees were high. But with a joint effort and incredible passion, DDM has successfully removed and recycled the 5 bridges within schedule.
Every year DDM holds a number of safety days to boost safety awareness.
Last year's objectives are evaluated and new objectives are determined. All managers and all operational employees discuss safety, policy and vision together. In addition to all regular training courses, DDM offers workshops and training to all employees during these days to take the qualities of the professionals to an even higher level. Together with all DDM employees, we are working on an increasingly higher safety ethic. Everyone at DDM carries out their work in a safe and healthy manner, with sufficient attention to the environment. And they're getting better at it. This applies to everyone; back to work healthy and safe and back home healthy.
Dow has awarded DDM a certificate for Outstanding Safety Performance.
Following various demolition and disassembly projects that DDM carries out worldwide for Dow Chemical Company, DDM has received recognition for its excellent safety performance during implementation. DDM always continues to strive for a higher level of safety. Safety First! Read below a quote from the letter that DDM received from Dow. “In summary, DDM continues to deliver excellent performance in safely planning and executing all work related to Dow demolition projects. We truly believe that your company's exceptional efforts continue to be a reflection of the leadership and support of you and the entire DDM Management team. "
