PVS Chemicals Belgium recently removed an old sulfur pipeline with asbestos-containing insulation in the Ghent port area. This crucial intervention paves the way for a new, sustainable pipeline, allowing the company to once again transport liquid sulfur by ship. A safe operation with a significant impact on future operations—discover how this project was carried out.
In the Ghent port area, PVS Chemicals Belgium, a chemical company, recently completed an important remediation operation: the removal of an old, decommissioned sulfur pipeline whose insulation contained asbestos. This intervention is a crucial preparatory step for the installation of a new sulfur pipeline, which will allow the company to once again transport liquid sulfur via ships. Engineering Experts worked with various professionals to complete this project.
The existing pipeline had been out of service for some time, as it had exceeded its technical lifespan. Due to corrosion, wear, and the presence of asbestos-containing insulation, it no longer met current safety and environmental standards. The company has now opted to transport liquid sulfur by ship again. This approach is significantly more environmentally friendly, as water transport produces far less CO₂ emissions than road transport. This way, the supply of this essential raw material becomes more sustainable, and the company actively contributes to reducing its ecological footprint. To make this possible, a new pipeline is required that fully complies with current regulations. Before it could be installed, the old pipeline had to be completely and safely removed.
Prior to the works, a comprehensive risk analysis was conducted. The main hazards were:
Based on this risk analysis, a detailed work plan was developed, including ventilation requirements, personal protective equipment, access control, and emergency procedures.
To access parts of the pipeline at height, Xervon constructed safe and stable scaffolding along the route. This scaffolding served as the foundation for all subsequent work and ensured that the teams could operate safely within the complex pipe rack. The removal operation was carried out by a certified asbestos removal company, Asbest Services, using the containment method: a fully enclosed zone with negative pressure, air monitoring, and strict access restrictions.
The work was carried out in three steps:
Only a reciprocating saw was used during this process, and the pipeline was kept continuously wet to prevent fire risks from any remaining traces of sulfur.
Because parts of the site were located in an area where traffic and internal logistics flows had to be rerouted, Trafiroad installed temporary traffic signage. This ensured accessibility, safety, and smooth flow during the works.
During and after the work, air measurements were conducted by a certified laboratory. Only after confirmation that the work zone was free of asbestos fibers was the area cleared for the next phase of the project.
With the removal of the old pipeline, the company is paving the way for the installation of a new, state-of-the-art sulfur pipeline. This new infrastructure is designed to meet current standards for safety, corrosion resistance, and environmental impact. Thanks to this investment, the company can once again receive liquid sulfur by ship, supporting production continuity and improving logistical efficiency. This case demonstrates that even interventions in challenging industrial conditions can be carried out safely, provided the right expertise, planning, and compliance with legal safety standards are applied.
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