Kempton Test Rig

Name: Kempton Test Rig

Client: Thames Water

Approximate Cost:

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Background:

This project, led by the Thames Water Research, Development, and Innovation Team at Kempton Park WTW, was part of long-term research into the condition of large diameter trunk water mains. The purpose of the test rig was to allow various ‘non-destructive testing’ (NDT) technologies that are currently on the market, to be tested in a safe and standardised environment using test pipes engineered with known defects. The rig has two parallel pipelines (600mm and 900mm diameter), with locations allowed for insertion and removal of NDT devices within both. As part of the scope of this project, a small pumping station containing sets of recirculation and booster pumps was installed in order to provide the required flow and pressure characteristics within the rig.

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Our Role:

LJR Engineering worked on behalf of Thames Water in the role of Project Manager’s Representative (PMR) and were involved from the very start of the project. Working directly with the Thames Water RD&I team, we were heavily involved in the design phase of the project, using our expertise and expereince from a multitude of trunk main projects to assist in the development of suitable test rig design. During construction, LJR Engineering were the main representative from the client side onsite, working collaboratively with the principal contractor to ensure that the installation was completed in a safe and efficient manner, consistent with the project technical requirements. We also worked with the principal contractor to design a comprehensive commissioning plan, managing onsite commissioning activities for the client. Finally, our organisation provided ongoing support and assistance for an extended period upon handover of the test rig to the RD&I team, using our familiarity with the project to ensure the client received the full benefit of the new test rig.