Securing water supplies for future generations
As the UK faces increasingly unpredictable weather patterns and record-breaking temperatures, the urgency to secure sustainable water supplies has never been more pressing. At the forefront of this effort is Sunbelt Rentals, the UK’s leading provider of rental equipment, who has joined forces with the Strategic Pipeline Alliance (SPA) and Anglian Water on an ambitious £350 million infrastructure project. This monumental endeavour aims not just to address the immediate challenges posed by climate change but also to ensure that future generations have reliable access to water.
The project, which involves the installation of a staggering 330 km of new water mains, is a bold response to the growing disparity 
in water availability across the UK. By channelling water from the wetter regions in the north to the drier, more vulnerable areas in the east, this initiative is set to redefine the country’s water distribution landscape.
However, the scale and complexity of the SPA project have presented significant logistical challenges. Connecting 330 km of mains pipe safely and efficiently requires not only innovative technology but also meticulous planning to maintain the integrity of the pipeline and minimise the risk of leaks. This is where Sunbelt Rentals has stepped in, bringing with it an arsenal of innovative solutions and a wealth of expertise.
Equipped for success
Understanding the enormity of the task at hand, Sunbelt Rentals worked closely with SPA to identify and deploy the most effective equipment and support systems. Central to this effort has been the McElroy Tracstar 900i Butt Fusion Machine, a powerhouse of engineering designed to fuse large-diameter polyethylene (PE) pipes with precision and efficiency. Capable of handling pipes ranging from 324mm to 900mm in diameter, the Tracstar 900i automates much of the fusion process, drastically reducing manual labour and boosting productivity. Its patented centreline guidance system ensures even force distribution across joints, while an integrated data logger records key metrics, guaranteeing compliance with industry standards and providing full traceability.
To further streamline operations, Sunbelt Rentals introduced the McElroy MegaMc PolyHorse, a sophisticated pipe-handling system that
can hold enough pipe for a full day’s work. This not only accelerates the welding process but also enhances safety by minimising the need for heavy machinery on site. With the PolyHorse, the number of operatives required has been reduced to just one, enabling up to 14 pipes to be welded per day—a significant increase from the four per day achieved through manual methods.
Creating Optimal Working Conditions
In a project of this magnitude, maintaining optimal working conditions is crucial. Sunbelt Rentals’ bespoke 20ft welding containers have been instrumental in this regard providing a clean, waterproof environment by protecting against the elements. With extendable sides to accommodate both equipment and personnel, integrated LED lighting for extended working hours, and the ability to move the entire unit around the site with ease, these containers are a testament to Sunbelt Rentals’ commitment to operational excellence.
Additionally, to facilitate the movement of large strings of pipe across the site, Sunbelt Rentals supplied approximately 300 pipe support rollers. These rollers have been critical in reducing drag and ensuring the smooth progress of each 1 km strand of pipeline.
Commitment Beyond Equipment
Sunbelt Rentals’ contribution to the SPA project extends far beyond the provision of equipment. Recognising the importance of safety and efficiency, the company has delivered tailored training sessions to ensure that all operatives are well-versed in the safe operation of the machinery. Furthermore, a preventative maintenance programme has been implemented to mitigate the risk of unplanned downtime, ensuring that the project continues to run smoothly.
Jon Sparkes, Director of Utilities at Sunbelt Rentals, reflects on the project’s success: “This project has allowed us to demonstrate our expertise and commitment to our customers on turnkey projects like the SPA and has been a significant test for the new McElroy 900i butt fusion equipment. We will continue to support the SPA and their construction partners as they progress through the remaining phases of the polyethylene pipelines.”
Building Resilience for the Future
The SPA project is not just about laying pipes; it is about building resilience. The solutions provided by Sunbelt Rentals have been instrumental in maintaining project momentum, underscoring their critical role in one of the UK’s most ambitious water infrastructure projects. As climate challenges continue to escalate, such forward-thinking collaborations are essential in ensuring that the UK’s water supply is not just secured for today, but for generations to come.
