Edwards Engineering has announced the successful completion of a £1.5 million multi-faceted project with client Bairds Malt to upgrade the Arbroath site’s 22,000 tonne malting plant ‘Clova’ machinery building.

Despite navigating a number of challenges, including a global pandemic, unpredictable weather and east coast winds, alongside an increased work scope, Edwards’ multi-disciplinary engineering team completed the project in just over a year.

The site produces malts for the distilling, brewing and export markets, delivered by road, bulk container and cargo boat. Using its state-of-the-art 3D modelling system, Edwards Engineering modelled, manufactured and installed the secondary steelwork and 14 new stainless-steel louvres, as well as over 2,000 sq m new stainless steel lining panels. 23 stainless steel louvres made and installed by Edwards Engineering 16 years ago were also refurbished.

In addition, Edwards also manufactured a new elevator tower, access stairway and platforms. These were installed alongside new Flucorrex heaters and glass tube heat exchangers, conveyors, elevators and all required spouting.

The final element of the project was the cladding of the existing Clova round vessel.

Sandy Kirk, Managing Director, Edwards Engineering, said: “Edwards has worked with Bairds for over 25 years and this significant project is an excellent example of our team’s expertise in action, delivering on a challenging project which now complete, allows Bairds Malt to operate at a full capacity of an impressive 79,000 tonnes.

“Lockdown was implemented five months into activity, meaning whole site was shutdown for three months and with many suppliers on furlough re-scheduling work was difficult. However, where we were able to make gains on site was with the success of what could be described as our modular approach.

“With our drawing office and extensive fabrication facilities in Perth were able to manufacture the stainless steel lining panels before transporting them to site, ensuring a good fit, and to minimise on-site alterations.”

Below is a recently filmed flyover of the site: