Emergency Installation of a 315kW VSD Hire Drive

for a critical drainage system

Emergency delivery, installation and commissioning

Client
Ely Drainage Board

Location
Norfolk

Service Provided VSD Hire Drive

The Challenge

In December, just before the festive holiday season, we received an urgent call from a Mitsubishi Electric - Automation Systems UK client in Norfolk. This client operates a vital drainage system managed as part of the broader infrastructure overseen by the Ely Drainage Board. This system is crucial for preventing flooding in the Norfolk Broad farming area, situation below sea level and heavily reliant on effective drainage systems to control water levels.

The site in question has two large 315kW pumps situated at the end of a 120km drainage ditch, essential for draining excess water from the local area. However, the failure of a Variable Speed Drives (VSDs) controlling one these pumps halved the systems capacity, creating a significant flood risk for the local farmland during the holiday period.

Water Management

Two 315kW pumps serving a 120km draining ditch. One pump malfunctioning

Emergency temporary VSD Hire Drive Installation

“We have worked with Total Automated Solutions for many years, and I highly recommend them. They have helped us through several complex site challenges, working with us to find practical and cost-effective solutions. They are professional and responsive to our needs and have been fundamental in getting us to the positive position we are now in with automated and remotely operated on-site systems.”

— Waste Treatment Service, Scottish Borders

The Solution

The failure of one of the system’s Variable Speed Drives (VSDs) significantly compromised capacity. With heavy rain forecasted and the Christmas holidays approaching, the Ely Internal Drainage Board urgently needed an immediate solution to ensure both pumps were fully operational.

Our Response

Recognising the urgency of the situation, we demonstrated our expertise in handling critical situations. The and swiftly responded. The team mobilised immediately to address the issue with a rapid mobilisation.

Upon receiving the call, we dispatched a team to the Norfolk site with one of our 315kW hire drives that met the specifications of the failed VSD.

The Results

Installation & Commissioning

The replacement drive was fully installed and commissioned within just 4 hours of our arrival on-site. Our engineers ensured seamless integration with the existing system, restoring the pumps to full capacity.

By swiftly resolving the issue, we ensured the drainage system was fully operational ahead of the Christmas holiday, safeguarding the farmland and surrounding area.

Conclusion

This emergency intervention highlights our ability to deliver dependable solutions under pressure. For organisations like the Ely Internal Drainage Board and their partners, maintaining the functionality of critical drainage systems is essential to protecting local communities and farmland.

Both Mitsubishi Electric Automation Systems and their client expressed their gratitude for our speed and professionalism, which ensured the drainage system was fully operational and provided peace of mind during a high-risk period.

If you are facing similar challenges or require a temporary VSD hire drive, visit our webpage at www.tasweb.uk/hire-drive to learn more about our VSD hire drive solutions. Alternatively, contact us today on 01423 359 888 or email enquiries@tasweb.uk.