IDWe Ltd, a trusted pipe freezing company, was appointed to complete critical water main alterations at Ashlyns School. The work involved replacing and rerouting old water mains and installing new pipework. Our team completed the project over two consecutive working days, ensuring the site remained safe, clean, and functional throughout.
Expert Pipe Freezing Company: Water Main Works
Client: Ashlyns School
Location: Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire
Contract Duration: Two days
Scope of Works: Water main alterations on school premises
Initial Site Assessment and Planning
We began the project by attending the site to assess the existing system. Our engineers located the old pipework and determined the most efficient rerouting strategy. The objective was to integrate new MDPE pipework into the existing cast iron water main. This required freezing the pipes to safely isolate water flow.
The water main passed through several key areas of the school. It had to be disconnected and rerouted to accommodate a new gas main. Using advanced pipe freezing methods, we stopped the water flow without shutting down the entire system. This method allowed us to carry out the work without disrupting the school’s operations during working hours.
Installing the New Water Main
After freezing and safely isolating the system, our team began installing the new MDPE water main. Our engineers laid the pipe precisely along the designated path to connect it with the new gas infrastructure. We followed a carefully planned route to ensure full compliance with building regulations.
We prioritised safety, accuracy, and minimal disruption to the school day throughout the project. Our crew efficiently trenched the route for the new pipe, kept the area stable, and maintained clear access to protect staff and students on site.
Internal Pipe Replacement in the Plant Room
On the second day, our team moved operations inside to the school’s plant room. This area contained the existing 100mm cast iron pipework, which had to be removed and replaced. Our engineers dismantled the outdated sections quickly and safely, avoiding any interference with other plant room systems.
Once the old pipework was cleared, we prepared to install the new cold water main. To do this, we again used pipe freezing. This allowed us to isolate the remaining section of the old pipe without draining the system.
Isolating the Pipe with Freezing Technology
By applying our pipe freezing technology, we froze the pipe at the point of entry. This created a solid ice plug that held back the water flow. With the pipe safely frozen, we installed a new isolation valve to control water entry into the building.
Our team continuously monitored the freeze to ensure consistency and strength. After securing the valve, we allowed the ice plug to thaw naturally, carefully controlling the process to prevent thermal shock and protect the pipework from damage.
After the system returned to normal temperature, we conducted thorough checks. These included leak detection, valve testing, and flow assessments. Our checks confirmed that all components were working properly, and no leaks were present.
Project Completion and Site Restoration
For the project’s final stage, we handled cleanup and site inspection. Our team cleared all waste materials and redundant components, then responsibly disposed of them at a licensed recycling facility. Another contractor was scheduled to fill the trench outside, which had been used for laying the pipe.
We ensured the work area was safe, clean, and restored to its original condition. We also promptly removed all tools and equipment from the site. No hazards or loose items were left behind.
Minimal Disruption and Positive Client Feedback
Throughout the process, Ashlyns School remained fully operational. We scheduled work to avoid interfering with lessons or school operations. Staff and students experienced no interruptions to their daily routines.
Our engineers conducted themselves professionally and followed all health and safety guidelines. We ensured risk assessments and method statements were in place before any work began.
We maintained clear communication with the client throughout the project. At each stage, we updated the site contact and confirmed all actions before moving forward. This approach built trust and ensured the school remained confident in the pace and quality of our work.
Ashlyns School expressed satisfaction with the final result. The new water mains are now fully operational and meet modern standards. The upgraded plant room features efficient, accessible pipework, making future maintenance and inspections much easier.
What is Pipe Freezing?
Pipe freezing is a technique used to isolate sections of a pipe without draining the entire system. A special freezing jacket is placed around the pipe. It then freezes the water inside to form a solid ice plug. This plug creates a temporary blockage that holds back water pressure, allowing engineers to work on isolated sections.
This method is ideal for buildings that cannot afford a full system shutdown, such as schools, hospitals, and factories. Pipe freezing offers a clean, fast, and efficient solution for maintenance, repair, or installation works.
A pipe freezing company, like IDWe Ltd, uses specialist tools and techniques to ensure the freeze is secure and consistent. We monitor the temperature and pressure during the process to prevent any pipe damage. Once the work is complete, the ice plug thaws naturally, and the system resumes normal function without contamination or disruption
Pipe freezing is especially useful when working with pressurised water mains or systems with no drain-off points. It eliminates the need to shut down large systems or disrupt operations in sensitive environments.
To find out more, please read our guide.
Why Choose IDWe Ltd?
At IDWe Ltd, we take pride in delivering reliable solutions for schools, commercial properties, and public institutions. Our experience in pipework installation and freezing allows us to manage complex projects with minimal disruption.
If you’re planning pipework upgrades or need emergency isolation for repairs, IDWe Ltd is the pipe freezing company you can trust. We provide expert service, minimal disruption, and guaranteed results across all commercial and educational properties.
Can we help you with your next project? Discover further details on IDWe Ltd’s Pipe Freezing Services
Get a quote, please call 020 8302 7644 or email info@idwe.co.uk
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