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SSE

 SSE – Mintlaw 

 

CASE STUDY: Transformer Replacement in a Confined Residential Setting

IDI Services Delivers a Compact Crawler Crane Solution for SSE in Mintlaw

Client Profile

SSE operates the electricity distribution network across the north of Scotland, keeping power flowing to homes, schools and businesses in communities such as Mintlaw in Aberdeenshire. Replacing ageing ground-mounted transformers is a routine but critical part of maintaining that network, and every job has to be carried out safely, quickly and with minimal disruption to the people it serves.

The Challenge

This project involved removing an old distribution transformer and installing its replacement at a substation compound tucked between houses, a school playing field and a public footpath:

  • The substation could only be reached along a narrow footpath bounded by timber fencing on one side and trees and palisade fencing on the other
  • There was no access for a conventional mobile crane or lorry-mounted crane
  • Mature trees overhung the working area, restricting boom movement
  • Soft, frozen ground on the verges risked damage to the path and surrounding grass
  • The work had to be completed in a winter daylight window with residents and pedestrians nearby
  • Heavy transformer units needed controlled handling to avoid damage to the new equipment and the existing compound

The Solution

IDI Services designed a comprehensive approach using our specialist equipment and expertise:

Phase 1: Site Survey and Lift Planning

  • Walked the access route with SSE to confirm widths, gradients and overhead obstructions
  • Selected a compact tracked crawler crane able to travel the footpath and lift within the compound
  • Prepared a lift plan and method statement covering pick-and-carry, slewing radius and tree clearance
  • Agreed pedestrian management and exclusion zones around the path

Phase 2: Ground Protection and Mobilisation

  • Laid heavy-duty ground protection mats over the verges and soft ground
  • Tracked the crawler crane along the footpath at walking pace with a banksman guiding throughout
  • Set up beside the substation fence, clear of the overhanging branches

Phase 3: Removal of the Old Transformer

  • Rigged the existing transformer with chain slings and lifted it clear of its plinth
  • Carefully slewed the unit over the palisade fence and set it down on the path
  • Pick-and-carried it back along the footpath to the collection point

Phase 4: Installation of the New Transformer

  • Brought the replacement transformer in along the same route under the crane
  • Lowered it over the fence and onto its plinth with precise positioning for SSE's engineers
  • Removed ground protection and left the path and verges as found

The Results

The project was completed with excellent outcomes:

  • Old transformer removed and new unit installed in a single, well-planned operation
  • No damage to fencing, trees, the footpath or surrounding ground
  • Public access managed safely throughout
  • SSE's engineers able to proceed directly to connection and commissioning
  • Completed safely in cold, frosty winter conditions

The IDI Advantage

This project shows how IDI Services' compact crawler cranes reach places that other lifting equipment simply cannot. By combining a machine that can travel a footpath with careful planning and ground protection, we gave SSE a safe, low-impact way to renew a vital part of their network.

For utility and infrastructure lifts in tight or sensitive locations, contact IDI Services today.