ESS Active Cells Transport and Assembly Frame
Hutchinson was commissioned by the UKAEA to design and deliver a high-integrity transport lifting frame for the European Spallation Source, a major science project in Sweden. Meeting stringent specifications and tight deadlines, we utilised advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure timely delivery of this critical component.
Client
European Spallation Source is a European Research Infrastructure Consortium (ERIC) on the outskirts of Lund, Sweden. It is one of the largest science and technology infrastructure projects being build today.
Project Overview
Hutchinson were commissioned by UKAEA to design, manufacture and deliver a high integrity, safety critical transport lifting frame to within a short timeframe.
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.
Hutchinson was commissioned by UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) to design, manufacture, and deliver a high-integrity, safety-critical transport lifting frame on a tight schedule. As a company certified to the highest standards—UKCA & CE Mark at Execution Class 4—and a Fit 4 Nuclear certified fabricator, we are well-prepared to meet the demanding requirements of the Nuclear industry.
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 for the European Spallation Source exemplifies Hutchinson’s ability to meet exacting standards under tight deadlines. Our team’s commitment and expertise were crucial in delivering a product that not only meets but exceeds the rigorous demands of such a significant scientific endeavor.”