ESS Active Cells Transport and Assembly Frame
Hutchinson was commissioned by JFN to manufacture a high-integrity transport lifting frame. The frame will be used to safely transport the RHS Mast and Crab Assembly to the European Spallation Source in Sweden. Meeting stringent specifications and tight deadlines, we utilised advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure timely delivery of this critical component.
Client
UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), are a UK government research organisation responsible for developing nuclear fusion energy and related technologies. The project was delivered on behalf of James Fisher Nuclear (JFN), with UKAEA as the end client.
Project Overview
Hutchinson was commissioned by JFN to manufacture a high-integrity, safety-critical transport lifting frame.
52 distinct components and weighing over 5000kg, all manufactured to extremely precise tolerances.
Manufactured to exacting standards
The European Spallation Source (ESS), located on the outskirts of Lund, Sweden, represents one of Europe’s most significant science and technology infrastructure projects. Due to the high radioactivity of the components used in ESS operations, human access is impossible, necessitating the use of sophisticated remote handling robotic systems for operations and maintenance that are expected to function for decades.
The project involved creating a complex assembly consisting of 52 distinct components and weighing over 5000kg, all manufactured to extremely precise tolerances using state-of-the-art techniques such as advanced welding, coating, thorough inspection, and magnetic particle inspection. Leveraging our comprehensive in-house processes, we efficiently reduced production lead times, enabling our client to meet critical project deadlines.
Delivering for the European Spallation Source
“This project, manufactured for the UK Atomic Energy Authority to support the European Spallation Source, exemplifies Hutchinson’s ability to meet exacting standards under tight deadlines. Our team’s commitment and expertise were crucial in producing a safety-critical component that meets the rigorous demands of the nuclear industry.”