Technically-demanding projects add to Jet Demolition’s diverse portfolio

Power plant demolition and decontamination work represents some of the most demanding, time-sensitive and technically-challenging projects undertaken by Jet Demolition. Here the scope of work ranges from the safe and controlled demolition of coal-fired boilers to product conveyors, steam turbines, transformers, silos, cooling towers and associated auxiliary equipment, in addition to the removal of hazardous materials.

“These types of projects add to our diverse portfolio. By careful application of our experience, we are able to offer our clients solutions that are economical, rapid and risk-averse,” comments Junior Project Engineer Nontobeko Zwane.

Such projects often involve the removal of critically-compromised structural steel structures and elements, the recovery of undamaged client assets and the demolition of plant buildings and offices.  Jet Demolition also carries out clean-up operations whereby it reduces hazardous contaminant levels on the demolished elements, resulting in materials being recycled and reused.

The timeframe of such a scope of work is directly related to the project and client requirements, combined with a heightened attention to health and safety. With the safety of its personnel and all other persons involved being of the utmost importance, Jet Demolition ensures that its demolition projects are highly mechanised.

The main equipment used depends on the site conditions. For example, its state-of-the-art cold-cutting equipment allows workers to operate safely in the most volatile environments without affecting the client’s operational processes. Plant and equipment range from a one-tonne skidsteer loader to a 102-tonne high-reach excavator, paired with the ideal demolition shear, grapple, hammer or bucket as required.

“We always deploy full-time on-site production and safety management professionals on our projects, supported on-site by skilled operators and multi-skilled demolition workers. These operational teams are supplemented by our in-house engineering and project management teams, and supported by fully-staffed HSEQ, warehouse and workshop departments,” explains Zwane.

The main challenges posed by these type of demolition projects is having to accommodate live services that could be compromised within the demolition works area and the associated structural elements that have to remain undamaged. “Most clients are unfamiliar with our line of work, and it always poses a challenge to gain trust in our methodologies and demolition approach. This is where our proven experience in large-scale and technically-challenging projects speaks on our behalf,” concludes Zwane.