CSC Services completes Hinkley Point B remediation

CSC Services successfully completed the 2017 Concrete Spalling Remediation Programme at Hinkley Point B Power Station for client EDF Energy

Over ten tonnes of specialist repair mortars and structural strengthening products were used to rectify the degradation of reinforced concrete at various areas across the station. A combination of environmental exposure, water ingress and the age of the station building had caused spalling in areas including the flask bay and turbine hall.

Maintaining ongoing nuclear safety and plant reliability were the key objectives driving the programme of work which began in April. The repair work will significantly expand the durability of structures, enabling their original design life to be achieved.

The scope of work included: provision of a suitable repair specification for each specified area; provision of suitably trained and experienced operatives to execute the repairs; and provision of all repair materials in accordance with the identified specifications

Repair areas included: the vent plant room, flask bay opening, and turbine hall. A range of protective coatings were used to protect the structures from moisture intrusion and further corrosion, reducing the need for ongoing maintenance work for the life of the station.

As part of the programme, carbon fibre wrapping was installed to the DW Plinths in the Turbine Hall. This will provide significant strength to the plinths and protect against further corrosion and erosion.