PSA were part of the design team assigned to develop an innovative pipe bridge for top pet food manufacturer to transport waste products across the site to an anaerobic digester, generating biogas for on-site energy use. This solution supported the client’s goal of carbon footprint reduction and operational cost savings. Using advanced 3D modelling and virtual reality technology, PSA overcame space constraints and optimised the pipework arrangement. The result was a fully coordinated design that maximised efficiency and ensured long-term maintainability.
CLIENT: GA Pet Foods
LOCATION: Lancashire
SERVICES: Mechanical Design
CLIENT OBJECTIVES
Our client, a pet food manufacturer and distributor, sought to achieve energy self-reliance and reduce their carbon footprint. They needed a comprehensive waste management solution that would collect and transport waste from various parts of their operation to a central anaerobic digester. This system would process waste into biogas, providing energy for the entire site. The client aimed to eliminate reliance on natural gas, reduce operational costs, and meet ambitious carbon reduction targets.
OUR SOLUTION
PSA assisted with the design of the pipe bridge structure and assisted with routing the intricate pipework system. We carefully considered the various chemicals involved in the waste processing, selecting appropriate materials for each component. Using Revit 2019, Revit Live, and Navisworks Clash Detection software, we created a detailed 3D model of the entire system. This allowed us to optimise the placement of each pipe for maximum efficiency. When we discovered that the initial structural space was insufficient for the pipes and future maintenance, we utilised virtual reality technology to clearly communicate the issue to the client, leading to a crucial redesign.
THE OUTCOME
The final design met all of the client’s objectives, providing a robust and efficient waste management system. The pipe bridge now effectively transports waste from all areas of the site to the anaerobic digester, which converts it into biogas for on-site energy use. This solution has significantly reduced the client’s reliance on external energy sources, lowering both their carbon footprint and operational costs. The VR-assisted redesign ensured ample space for ongoing maintenance, guaranteeing the system’s long-term viability and effectiveness.
