Installation of fire suppression systems at Peterborough and Huntingdon Compressor Stations

Project review

Project overview

Client

Technica Ltd

Project support partner

Global Fluid Controls Ltd

Locations

Peterborough Compressor Station and Huntingdon Compressor Station

Scope

Design support, supply, installation, commissioning and testing of fire suppression systems

Executive summary

Global Fluid Controls Ltd worked in partnership with Technica Ltd to deliver the design support, supply, installation, commissioning and testing of fire suppression systems at the Peterborough and Huntingdon Compressor Stations. The project was undertaken to enhance fire protection measures within critical compressor buildings, ensuring the continued safe operation of plant assets, protection of personnel, and compliance with operational and insurance requirements.

The compressor stations contained high-value rotating equipment, electrical infrastructure, lubrication systems and high-pressure process equipment. A fire event within these facilities could have resulted in significant operational disruption, equipment damage and safety risks. The installation of an automated fire suppression solution was therefore identified as a key risk reduction measure.

Project background

Compressor buildings present a number of potential fire hazards due to:

• High operating temperatures generated by compressor equipment.
• Lubricating oils and hydraulic fluids used within mechanical systems.
• Electrical control panels, motors and switchgear.
• High-pressure equipment capable of releasing combustible gases or vapours in fault conditions.
• Critical infrastructure supporting the wider operation of the compressor network.

Risk assessments undertaken by Technica Ltd identified the requirement for enhanced fire detection and suppression arrangements at both Peterborough and Huntingdon Compressor Stations. To support delivery of the project, Global Fluid Controls Ltd was engaged to provide specialist expertise in fire suppression systems and mechanical installation services.

Project scope

Engineering and design support

• Review of site surveys and hazard assessments.
• Evaluation of compressor building layouts and protected volume calculations.
• Selection of appropriate fire suppression technologies.
• Development of installation methodologies.
• Production of equipment schedules and technical documentation.

Installation activities

• Installation of suppression pipework networks.
• Positioning and securing of suppression cylinders.
• Installation of detection devices and control panels.
• Integration with existing building alarm systems.
• Connection to plant shutdown interfaces where required.
• Testing of control and discharge circuits.

Our contribution

Global Fluid Controls Ltd provided specialist technical support throughout all phases of the project.

Project management support

We worked closely with Technica Ltd to coordinate activities across both compressor stations, ensuring minimum disruption to operational requirements and programme schedules.

Mechanical installation expertise

Experienced installation personnel carried out the installation of suppression pipework, cylinder storage assemblies, nozzle positioning and associated mechanical components in accordance with approved engineering drawings and manufacturer recommendations.

Technical compliance

All installation activities complied with relevant industry standards, client specifications and site safety procedures.

Site safety management

A comprehensive safety management approach was implemented, including:

• Risk assessments and method statements.
• Permit-to-work compliance.
• Working at height controls.
• Isolation procedures.
• Contractor coordination.
• Daily safety briefings and inspections.

No lost-time incidents were recorded during project delivery.

Technical benefits of the fire suppression system

The completed installations provide automatic fire detection and suppression capabilities designed to rapidly control developing fire incidents within the compressor buildings. Key benefits include:

• Enhanced personnel protection - automatic detection and suppression significantly reduce risks to maintenance personnel and site operators.
• Asset protection - the systems protect critical compressor equipment, electrical infrastructure and associated mechanical systems.
• Reduction in operational downtime - rapid suppression of a fire event reduces the likelihood of extensive equipment damage and prolonged production interruptions.
• Regulatory and insurance compliance - the upgraded arrangements support compliance with relevant safety requirements and insurer expectations.
• Improved business continuity - protection of critical compressor assets helps maintain operational reliability and network resilience.

Project outcome

The fire suppression systems at Peterborough and Huntingdon Compressor Stations were successfully installed, tested and commissioned in accordance with project requirements. Through its partnership with Technica Ltd, Global Fluid Controls Ltd delivered a robust fire protection solution that:

• Improved personnel safety.
• Reduced fire-related operational risks.
• Protected critical compressor assets.
• Enhanced system reliability.
• Supported long-term operational continuity.

Conclusion

The successful completion of the fire suppression installations at Peterborough and Huntingdon Compressor Stations represents a strong example of collaborative project delivery between Technica Ltd and Global Fluid Controls Ltd. By combining engineering expertise, effective project coordination and high-quality installation practices, the project achieved its primary objective of providing reliable fire protection for critical compressor infrastructure while ensuring safe and uninterrupted operation of both facilities.

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