ECS To Build 8 Radial Weir Gates For EA Refurbishment Of Thames Structure

By Jamie Wesley, Commercial Manager - Water Control Division, ECS Engineering Services Ltd

ECS Engineering Services has recently secured a deal to supply eight radial weir gates to the Environment Agency (EA) as part of a project to improve the Old Windsor Weir on the River Thames. Using the latest 3D survey equipment, ECS has been able to develop precision drawings for the fabrication team in record time, ensuring the contract will be delivered on time.

As a framework contractor for the EA, ECS has considerable experience in refurbishing large water control structures and is often called upon to deliver turnkey projects. ECS also has a distinguished history of steel fabrication and is certified to fabricate and install structures classed up to execution class 3 (EXC3), buildings and bridges, under the CE marking legislation.

In this case, as soon as the go-ahead was given, ECS was able to survey the site in detail using its advanced surveying equipment, which enabled the design teams to start work almost immediately. Although the site appears to use eight identical radial weir gates, the RTS survey equipment can soon determine any differences, which will ensure that every new gate will fit perfectly.

A Robotic Total Station (RTS) is an extremely accurate survey instrument that provides a sub-millimetre level of accuracy and can be used to collect sufficient data to create a 3D model as well as fabrication drawings. Using this advanced equipment has allowed ECS to minimise any delays at the beginning of the project and also develop a full set of 3D visuals for the client as well as any other interested parties.

Steve Crapper, Business Development Manager, commented: “In projects such as this, it is essential to get the initial data collected quickly and accurately. By using our RTS equipment and the data it collects, the design engineers are able to create the fabrication drawings more efficiently which helps to streamline the project as a whole.”

About ECS Engineering Services
ECS Engineering Services has over 20 years experience in delivering high quality, reliable and cost effective engineering solutions, specialising in bespoke design and construction of water, energy and environmental processing and management projects.

In partnership with Landustrie Archimedes screw pumps and Waterfront Fluid Controls, ECS has the expertise and capacity to design and install a wide range of water control engineering projects. With in-house fabrication services, which have CE Marking approval to EXC3, well equipped and highly skilled engineers can also complete structural steelwork, bespoke fabrication work and access metalwork to the highest standard.

With a complete range of site services available, ECS offers a full turnkey project managed service for mechanical and electrical installations including managing civils contractors and supplying pipework, control and automation work to ensure that every installation is installed and commissioned to the highest standard. Existing clients include the majority of the UK Water Utility companies, Government Agencies and Internal Drainage Boards.