As part of the energy transition, an industrial site in Wesseling was gradually transformed from traditional oil-related activities to more sustainable applications.
As part of this redevelopment, an existing filtration plant was taken out of service. Instead of opting for complete demolition, a sustainable solution was chosen in which the building was preserved and the technical installations were carefully dismantled for refurbishment and reuse.
DDM was contracted to carry out the specialist dismantling of four chamber filter presses, each weighing approximately 55 tonnes and measuring 13 x 2.30 x 2.40 metres. Due to the substantial weight, limited space, and structural constraints, this project required detailed engineering and a carefully developed execution strategy.
Engineering and Execution Strategy
Following a thorough site inspection, an efficient and safe dismantling method was selected in which the filter presses were removed through the front of the building. This approach provided logistical advantages and minimized structural modifications to the building.
Prior to execution, a detailed work plan was prepared. The activities included creating a temporary opening in the façade, installing heavy-duty support structures beneath the presses to ensure load-bearing capacity, and constructing an external platform for temporary positioning.
The filter presses were lifted hydraulically one by one and placed on heavy-duty transport skates. Using a manual winch, the units were carefully pulled outside. Once a press was partially positioned outside the building, it was connected to a crane and further extracted in a controlled manner. By combining mechanical pulling force with crane capacity, each press was safely relocated and positioned onto the transport platform.
Challenges and Control Measures
The execution took place under challenging conditions, including high outdoor temperatures exceeding 38°C and limited personnel availability. Through additional safety measures, adjusted working and rest schedules, and supplementary support, progress was maintained without compromising safety or quality.
Result
The technical dismantling was successfully completed within the planned execution period. The filter presses were carefully prepared for refurbishment and reuse, making a significant contribution to the circular deployment of industrial installations. This project highlights DDM’s expertise in complex industrial dismantling, heavy transport within existing structures, and the sustainable decommissioning of process installations.
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. "
