As a trusted pipe freezing company, we recently completed shrink fitting services at The Beddington Energy Recovery Facility (ERF) in Beddington, Sutton, South London. The facility produces power to the National Grid. The objective for this project was to install a larger nozzle into an existing Valve to increase the steam generator capacity. This upgrade will improve the site efficiency and electricity output. Learn more about the project below:
Shrink Fitting a Nozzle Using Liquid Nitrogen at Beddington ERF
Our engineers applied the liquid nitrogen pipe freezing technique to shrink fit the seat/nozzle for a seamless installation.
Expert Pipe Freezing Services for Maintenance System Upgrades
Project Location:
We attended Beddington ERF, located at 105 Beddington Lane, Croydon, CRO, during regular working hours. One shift was scheduled for this operation.
Project Overview:
- IDWe Ltd’s freezing team submerged the metal nozzle into liquid nitrogen.
- The extreme cooling caused the component to contract significantly.
- Our engineers maintained liquid nitrogen levels to sustain the freeze.
- The required freeze duration was confirmed on-site.
- Once frozen, Siemens engineers inserted the seat into the valve.
- The shrink wrapping technique ensured a precise and secure fit.
- This method allowed for a fast and efficient installation with no heat or mechanical stress on the components.
How Liquid Nitrogen Pipe Freezing Enables Precision Installations
- Liquid nitrogen cools metal to -196°C. At this temperature, metal contracts enough for insertion into tight or interference-fit spaces.
- This method, known as the shrink wrapping technique, avoids high-heat welding or dismantling. It reduces downtime and lowers installation risk.
- Our pipe freezing services delivered a clean, non-intrusive solution without interrupting operations.
Site Clearance and Environmental Responsibility
- Upon completion, we removed all equipment and materials.
- Our team disposed of all waste at a licensed recycling facility.
- We uphold strict environmental practices as a professional pipe freezing company serving critical infrastructure clients.
Conclusion: Trusted Partner for Pipe Freezing Services
- This successful freeze operation highlights our expertise in complex installations.
- Our team ensures precision using advanced liquid nitrogen techniques.
- For safe, effective shrink wrapping and pipe freezing services, trust our experienced professionals to deliver high-performance solutions. Talk to us today!
What Is the Shrink Fitting Process?
- Shrink fitting is a mechanical assembly method that uses cold temperatures to temporarily reduce a metal component’s size.
- We cool parts like nozzles or bushings with liquid nitrogen.
- The rapid temperature drop causes the metal to contract.
- Once sufficiently contracted, the part is inserted into its matching component, such as a valve body or housing.
- As the component returns to ambient temperature, it expands to create a strong, interference fit.
- This process uses no welding, threading, or fasteners. It forms a secure, pressure-tight joint without altering the material properties.
Why Choose Shrink Fitting Over Traditional Methods?
Shrink fitting offers several advantages over conventional joining techniques:
- No heat damage: Ideal for precision components and sensitive environments.
- Permanent and secure: Produces a strong mechanical bond under pressure and temperature variation.
- Minimal downtime: Faster than traditional methods, with no system-wide shutdowns required.
- Clean and safe: No cutting, fire risk, or hot work permits needed.
Our engineers specialise in shrink fitting using precise, controlled liquid nitrogen applications. We ensure accuracy and safety on every job.
Pipe Freezing Company
Get in Touch for Professional Pipe Freezing Services
As a leading Pipe Freezing Company serving Croydon, South London, we deliver Shrink Fitting non-intrusive pipe isolation with precision and reliability. The team also provide services across London, Kent, Surrey, Hampshire, Essex, East Sussex, West Sussex and beyond.
Contact us today for:
- Expert Liquid Nitrogen Pipe Freezing
- Valve Replacement Solutions
- Hot Tapping Services
- Pipe Welding Services
Get a quote:
Talk to us about your project today, please call 020 8302 7644 or email info@idwe.co.uk
We can adapt our services to suit your industrial and commercial needs, learn more about our pipe freezing services.
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