Waco Performs Lead Removal Prior to Hydrobin Demolition
Hydrobin technology is a very effective means of safely removing bottom ash from boilers in coal burning power facilities. A hydrobin can handle large quantities of a slurry mix (bottom ash and transport water) and quickly separate the water from the solid material. This process of disposing of bottom ash was the preferred method at Dominion Energy‘s Power station in Mt. Storm, WV.
There were six of these hydrobins in use – two for each unit. Recent EPA rule changes on how CCR’s (Coal Combustion Residuals) are managed has prompted the owners of coal burning power plants to change how they handle bottom ash. Dominion Energy’s decision to switch from a wet slurry system to a dry ash type system meant that these hydrobins would be placed out of service and demolished. Each hydrobin is approximately 30 feet in diameter and 50 feet tall, with an extensive structural steel support system. The paint tested on the support steel and the exterior of the hydrobins was determined to contain enough lead paint to warrant a partial removal before the demolition contractor could cut each section of the steel. Waco was contacted along with others to provide an effective means of safely removing the lead paint prior to demolition. In addition, asbestos insulation on the slurry piping and residual ash would need to be properly contained, removed and disposed of. Waco proposed a comprehensive package of services together with overseeing the extensive scaffolding required for the project, and was awarded the contract.
The new technology for handling the bottom ash was not fully functional at the start of the project. This meant that the work would have to be performed while some of the hydrobins were still in operation. Extensive measures were taken to ensure that the lead paint chips did not enter the hydrobin water system. One of our supplier partners on the project was Desco Manufacturing Co, Inc., who provided air powered mini flushplate tools which were critical for the safe and effective removal of the lead. These lighter weight air tools had a reloadable cutter head and dust attachment, allowing our crews to work longer and maintain the productivity level needed to complete the project on schedule. Waco personnel along with an approved Asbestos Project Monitor made sure all pre job and post job sampling was done in accordance with all Federal, State and Local regulations.
Waco adhered to all safety and environmental regulations. Our onsite management team coordinated all activities with the demolition contractor to ensure the project was completed on schedule and allow Dominion Energy to fully implement their new Bottom Ash removal system.
Project Specifics
- Location: Mt. Storm Power Station – Mt. Storm, WV
- Manhours: 15,000
- Value: $1.9MM
- Project Manager: Billy Shoemaker