UK Power Station Modular Switchrooms

ADE were appointed by a leading global manufacturer of electrical control systems to design and manufacture 4 bespoke modular switchgear enclosures to house their critical energy control and distribution equipment for a UK Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) Combined Heat and Power (CHP) power station.

The scope consisted of an LV module, MV module, VSD (variable speed drive) module and a termination chamber module. To accelerate programme delivery and enable parallel working, ADE proposed a hybrid manufacturing strategy. While the VSD module was manufactured and fitted out in a traditional method, the remaining 3 modules were delivered utilising a “skid and lid” approach.

For the LV, MV and termination chamber modules, the “skids” (the structural bases) and the “lids” (the wall and roof assemblies) were fabricated and painted separately. Once complete, the skids were delivered to the client for installation of their switchgear and associated equipment, while ADE simultaneously fitted out the lids with lighting, small power, earthing, HVAC and other required auxiliary equipment. The equipped skids were then returned to ADE for final test fitting and quality checks prior to dispatch. Due to weight restrictions, the skids and lids were transported to site separately for final assembly.

The 2 largest enclosures, the LV and MV modules, each measured 18 metres long, over 4 metres wide and 4 metres high. All 4 enclosures received a C5M paint finish for corrosion protection to suit the site environment.

On site, the enclosures were positioned and installed by ADE engineers, with the LV, MV and VSD modules combined to form a single multi-module structure atop a 1.4 metre-high galvanised substructure, complete with access platforms and stairs also supplied by ADE.

Following positioning and mechanical installation, ADE engineers also installed all the interconnecting cabling between the equipment housed within the 4 enclosures. The completed installation now provides secure, reliable housing for vital power control infrastructure supporting electricity generation at the facility.