Manx Utilities will begin essential repair work at Peel Power Station this week, following storm damage sustained to one of the flue caps earlier this year.
Immediately after the incident, the damaged flue cap was stabilised to ensure safety.
Surveys and inspections were then carried out to determine the cause of the failure and to establish the condition of the other three flue caps so that a repair plan could be developed.
Repairs to Power Station
Planning and fabrication of replacement components has been underway, and now new flue sections are being manufactured by a local contractor.
Specialist steeplejacks began work today, starting with the installation of a modular frame deck scaffold inside the concrete chimney.
This will allow for the safe removal of corroded bolts to prepare the structure for the replacement of the flue sections.
Phases of Repair
Manx Utilities say the repair will be carried out in two phases:
Phase 1 – Internal Preparations (Approx. 2 Weeks)
- Steeplejacks will work primarily inside the chimney.
- At the end of this phase, the failed flue cap will be craned to the ground, subject to suitable weather conditions.
Phase 2 – Flue Replacement (Approx. 3 Weeks)
- Scheduled based on a calm weather window.
- A large crane will be deployed to lift the newly repaired flue sections into position.
Although only one flue section failed, inspections revealed corrosion in the remaining three.
As a precaution and to ensure long-term reliability, all four flue sections will be repaired.
