Case Study
Electrical substation
Category
Civil Engineering
Conditions
Cold
Location
Chester, England
Ancore was engaged to deliver piling and reinforced concrete generator bases for an electrical substation in Chester, located close to the Dee Estuary — an environment where ground conditions are constantly influenced by tidal movement and shifting sands. Standard driven piles were unsuitable for these conditions, as the moving sub-strata presented a clear risk to long-term stability and alignment.
To mitigate this, Ancore designed and installed a specialist screw pile solution, capable of resisting both tension and compression forces. This ensured the foundations remained stable even as ground conditions changed with tidal levels, protecting the integrity of the substation infrastructure. In total, 36 screw piles were installed, providing a robust and adaptable foundation system.
Once installed, bespoke tophats were embedded into reinforced concrete generator bases, allowing future generators to be positioned with precise tolerances and confidence in long-term performance. Despite cold autumn conditions, the works were delivered in line with programme and to exacting standards.
The client was extremely satisfied with the outcome, citing confidence that tolerances would be maintained, equipment movement eliminated, and long-term structural integrity assured. The solution delivered reduced maintenance requirements and dependable operational performance throughout the asset’s lifecycle, reinforcing Ancore’s expertise in specialist piling and reinforced concrete works.