MAKING AN IMPACT TOGETHER Ivormatie magazine - December 2023
“ THE REAL POWER LIES IN THE COMBINATION OF THE WORDS” 2
Making an impact together: the theme of this issue of Ivormatie. Inspiring, but what does it mean? These words can be interpreted in different ways, depending on how you read them: 1.
Making an impact together. Collaborating on projects to achieve greater outcomes and celebrate successes. Everything is more fun together.
2.
Making an impact together. Making a difference, creating change that makes the world a better place. Leaving a lasting mark for the next generation.
3.
Making an impact together. Creating something, developing an idea into a physical reality. Plans are fine, but change requires much more.
But the real power of these words lies in the combination of making an impact together. Achieving something together that makes the world a better place. This is our ambition at Iv. This is what brings us happiness and pleasure in our work every day. Whether it concerns large projects for the global energy transition or a project to improve sustainability locally, there is a need everywhere for change that makes a difference, and that means new opportunities! This issue of Ivormatie contains a variety of wonderful projects that we at Iv have recently worked on or are currently working on. These are projects in which we closely collaborate with our colleagues, clients and partners. Projects that make a difference and help the world move forward. And projects that are more than just plans or studies but actually become a reality. Have fun reading this issue. Maarten van de Waal CEO
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Volume 37, No. 2, December 2023 Editorial Staff Iv-Groep, Corporate Development & Marketing Ivormatie A publication of Iv-Groep b.v. Editorial Office Iv-Groep b.v. P.O. Box 1155 3350 CD Papendrecht The Netherlands marketing@iv-groep.nl www.iv-groep.com Unsubscribe Would you prefer to receive Ivormatie digitally? Or do you want to unsubscribe? Let us know via marketing@iv-groep.nl. Copyright © 2023 Iv-Groep. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part requires written permission.
CONTENT 6 Vertical expension as a solution to the housing shortage 10 The largest of its kind: 2 gigawatts in the North Sea 14 A unique position in submarine engineering 20 Green steel in a clean environment 28 From tip of the iceberg to complete solution 34 Dealing with climate uncertainties 40 A collective approach could improve the health of the water chain 44 Groundbreaking lifting technology accelerates energy transition
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Burgmeester Feithplein in Voorburg Source: Normteq
Vertical expansion as a solution to the housing shortage The Netherlands aims to build no fewer than
found to build something new? The answer is almost
900,000 homes by 2030 to combat the growing
nowhere. And so, ‘vertical expansion’ of existing
housing shortage. An ambitious number that is
buildings is now seen as one of the solutions to realise
proving difficult to achieve in practice. However, to
more homes in urban areas. As a structural specialist,
reach more than 100,000 additional homes per year,
Iv is often involved in such projects because creating
one of the solutions is to extend existing buildings
a few extra storeys in itself is not complicated, but
vertically.
carrying it out in a structurally safe, responsible and realistic way often is.
The idea of ‘vertical expansion’ is simple: place one or more storeys on top of an existing building, such as an office or apartment complex, to facilitate more
This is great fun if you like puzzles. Fortunately, we do.
people living on the same surface area. The only thing that changes – appearance-wise – is the height. This
An example is the Burgemeester Feithplein in
solution has already been applied to the post-war
Voorburg. Three additional levels have been built
‘Plattenbau’ building in Berlin.
on both office buildings - now homes. As a result, the buildings are no longer comprised of 17 but
The demand for housing remains high, especially
23 residential storeys. Iv investigated the feasibility
in urban areas. New construction projects are
and provided the structural design of the ‘vertical
often left on the shelf or even get as far as being
expansion plans’.
developed into final designs. But this does not mean that construction will actually take place. Money
Complicated puzzle
(increased construction and land costs) and the
Although it seems simple in theory to provide flat-
nitrogen crisis, which also affects the construction
roofed buildings with a few extra storeys, in practice,
sector, are the main reasons for this situation.
it is not so straightforward, says Rinske Daniëls-de Waard, Project Manager at Iv. “In terms of foundation
Safe, responsible and realistic
and supporting structure, a building is constructed in
One way or another, more additional homes need to
such a way that it can support the structure. Buildings
be created in the near future. The challenge is even
are not often designed to support additional storeys,
greater in cities because where can the space be
mostly due to cost. Often, one extra storey can be
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built on top, but even then, it is a very complicated
In short, vertical expansion of buildings is not as simple
puzzle to evaluate how it can be done in a structurally
as it sounds. A lot of time is spent, especially in research
safe way.”
and calculations, and ultimately, something will always have to be adjusted in an existing building to support
Vertically expanding a building mainly affects the
the extra storeys.
stability and the wind load on a building. The higher a building, the more wind it will catch and the stronger the structure must be to absorb the load. Because of this, the work often does not end with the design of an additional storey but extends into various adjustments to the existing structure.
Politicians need to make choices. Rinske: “What is not preferable is to interfere with the foundation because that has a lot of impact and is very expensive. This is why we first conduct a feasibility study, which requires archive documents of the foundation and the stability system. Even when the foundation is suitable for vertical expansion, reinforcement measures to the rest of the building are almost always required. These are often concentrated in the core of a building, where the lifts, stairs and shafts are located. This is where the wind load is mainly absorbed. Adjustments to other parts, such as floor and wall openings or openings through load-bearing parapets, like the new balconies of the Burgemeester Feithplein, are also always necessary. As structural engineers, we provide input on how to link data and calculations. In contrast to new designs, you are making use of something that already exists, and you continue on that basis. That’s a lot of fun if you like puzzles. Fortunately, we do.”
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Source: Normteq
Repurposing
It is also the ultimate opportunity for homeowners,
Besides vertical expansion, repurposing buildings
especially those living in an older building, to achieve
also contributes to solving the housing shortage. The
greater sustainability. Jeroen: “You can house more
Baumann Church in Overschie, Rotterdam, is an excellent
residents in the same building. Property owners are
example. This monumental post-war church has been
often united in an Owners’ Association (VvE), so the costs
transformed into a unique residential building. Iv was
related to installing solar panels or other sustainability
engaged in this transformation, from the feasibility
initiatives can be spread over more people, making
studies to supervising the implementation. Repurposing
sustainability cheaper on balance.”
is similar to vertical expansion in that it maximises existing buildings’ use to give more people a home.
No time for a wait-and-see attitude In summary, it seems clear: vertical expansion and
Making sustainability cheaper on balance.
repurposing buildings, as is often done in Berlin, appears to be a relatively simple and accessible way to create additional homes quickly without branching out to
An essential condition for building owners to be
rural areas. But it is not yet happening on a mass scale.
eligible for vertical expansion or repurposing is that the
As far as Jeroen is concerned, this is partly because the
documentation is optimally in order. Iv, therefore, begins
government has yet to chart a course to address the
with archival research. Particularly for buildings built
housing shortage and the role of nitrogen emissions in
from the 1980s onwards, all the necessary paperwork is
the construction sector. “As a result, a growing wait-and-
generally available, but we also have a lot of experience
see attitude can be observed within this market. And
with buildings from the 1950s-1960s or even earlier. So,
if anything is killing it, that’s it. Politicians need to make
there are potentially many opportunities in urban areas
choices. An additional 900,000 homes must be achieved
to accommodate more people.
by 2030. Last quarter, 15,000 permits were granted, which confirms the vacuum the construction world
More sustainable and cheaper
is in. So, something has to happen. Vertical expansion
According to Jeroen Pahud de Mortanges, Director of
and repurposing offer a solution. The potential is huge,
Iv-Bouw, being creative and clever with existing
and we will happily use our expertise to harness this
buildings is the way to combat the (inner-city) housing
potential.”
crisis. “It’s useful in urbanised environments because
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there is little space left. But on top of that, it’s cheaper than new construction and much more sustainable.”
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The largest of its kind: 2 gigawatts in the North Sea Iv is designing the 2 gigawatt (GW) IJmuiden Ver Beta
For Iv, the design of this HVDC (Direct Current) platform
platform in the North Sea. This platform is the first in
is truly unique. Both in terms of capacity and in that
a series of 2GW platforms that Iv will design for the
IJmuiden Ver will significantly contribute to achieving
GE-Seatrium (GSC) consortium for TenneT. Iv recently
the Netherlands’ green energy targets. The national
signed a contract with Seatrium, the party with which
government has set the target of realising an installed
Iv is also currently working on the Sofia platform,
capacity of around 21 GW of offshore wind energy by
among other projects.
2030. This installed wind turbine capacity will be able to generate around 75 percent of the Netherlands’
Iv is responsible for the detailed engineering of the
total electricity demand. The Netherlands currently
offshore converter platform for both the topside and
has approximately 5 GW of offshore wind capacity. The
jacket and for supplying 50 percent of the equipment
series of 2GW platforms that TenneT will soon put into
and auxiliary systems.
operation will significantly contribute to this target. The network operator will provide many more network
New standard
connections in the period leading up to 2030, not only
Two gigawatts: the IJmuiden Ver Beta platform is
in the Netherlands but also in Germany.
currently the largest of its kind, and as such, the engineering thereof represents an extraordinary and significant step in the offshore energy transition. A wind farm with an installed capacity of 2 GW will deliver
The weight of almost 30,000 tonnes makes both the construction and the installation an extraordinary operation.
an amount of electricity equivalent to the annual consumption of 2 million households. The platform will
The transition to clean energy in Europe is an enormous
be built approximately 62 kilometres off the coast of
challenge. Europe has set itself the goal of becoming the
IJmuiden. With a capacity of 2 GW, the platform will set
world’s first climate-neutral continent by 2050.
a new standard within the energy transition and in the reduction of fossil fuel use.
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Direct current
incorporated into the designs of the other thirteen
Iv has been working for some time on the design of the
platforms. Other engineering companies are also
2GW platform for TenneT. The platform will convert 66 kV
working on the 2GW platforms for TenneT, so there is
alternating current into 525 kV direct current, ensuring
a lot of cross-over communication via TenneT. Kunal:
that energy losses are minimised. As IJmuiden Ver Beta
“This is extremely challenging. It means we are not only
is the first in a series of platforms, its design immediately
working on this platform but also indirectly on the other
sets the standard for subsequent platforms in the GE-
thirteen. Every adjustment we make is shared with the
Seatrium and Iv portfolio. All will have a capacity of two
other parties and vice versa. This coordination is crucial.”
gigawatts and form part of TenneT’s ‘2GW program’. Kunal Chopra is Iv’s overall project manager. Nearly a hundred Iv employees are currently working on the project every day, and there will be even more by next spring. “This is the biggest platform we have ever worked on. It really is a unique project”, says Kunal. “It’s fantastic to be part of it.”
A major milestone will take place in September 2024: the first steel cut. It goes without saying that Iv is no stranger to designing offshore transformer platforms, but this one is different due to its capacity and associated weight of almost 30,000 tonnes. These factors make both the construction and the installation an extraordinary operation. ‘Standard design’ The design process is also unique and complex. TenneT works with a ‘standard design’ approach across the fourteen projects awarded to the various consortiums. This means that the design of the IJmuiden Ver Beta platform forms the standard for subsequent platforms. Anything that changes in the engineering has to be
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Broadening the horizon
Alpha (800 MW/HVDC). Current projects such as Thor
As previously mentioned, 2GW sets a new standard
(1,060 MW/HVAC) and Sofia (1,320 MW/HVDC) are already
for offshore energy development. It is a level of power
significantly increasing capacity. IJmuiden Ver represents a
that seemed impossible a few decades ago because
clear and rapid development in offshore wind energy.
the associated wind turbines back then would never have been able to generate that much energy. Yet it is
Kunal is proud that Iv-Offshore & Energy can enhance its
happening now. Previous platforms Iv has worked on
track record further. Especially with a project like this. “The
include Borssele Alpha (700 MW/HVAC) and Dolwin
fact that we are working on this as a Dutch engineering company means that we, as Iv, can really claim a unique position in the world.”
This project will certainly put Iv on the map. Schedule According to the schedule, the design of the IJmuiden Ver Beta platform will be completed in January 2026. At the moment, about a quarter of the work has been completed. All disciplines have now begun: process, mechanical, structural (topside and jacket), layout, electrical, instrumentation, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning), piping, technical safety and RAMS (Reliability, Availability, Maintainability and Safety). “As a Project Manager, I have to liaise with many different
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people and disciplines”, Kunal continues. “It’s a lot of fun and this project will certainly put Iv on the map.”
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The Walrus class 14
A unique position in submarine engineering Submarines are of indispensable strategic importance
knowledge that is of enormous added value for the
to many countries in providing security at and from
realisation and upkeep of the new submarines”, says
the sea. They are deployed for vital missions, from
Bart. Over the past few years, Nevesbu has enhanced
gathering intelligence undercover to tracking down
this specialist submarine knowledge by recruiting
enemies and combating piracy and drug trafficking.
new, young and experienced people who have mainly
The success of submarines depends largely on
worked on submarines. This includes innovative studies,
technology; every detail must be correct.
such as the concept design of an all-electric submarine. Colleagues have also gained experience during projects,
The Netherlands is about to make an important
and master classes in submarine design have been
decision. In 2024, it is expected to be announced which
organised to learn all the principles of submarine design.
supplier will build the new generation of submarines
“Submarine technology is a niche market. Maintaining
for the Ministry of Defence. This new generation of
and expanding our knowledge in this area and
submarines will replace the current Walrus class, which
preparing our employees for the new submarines has
has been in service since the late 1980s. Nevesbu
been a key focus in recent years. But also to be able to
contributed to the design of the Walrus class submarines
say: ‘In the Netherlands, Nevesbu is the expert when it
in the 1970s and has been involved in every Dutch
comes to submarines.’ I’m convinced of that.”
submarine project since. “We have contributed to every generation of Dutch submarines”, says Bart van Rijssen,
Everything must be balanced.
Managing Director of Nevesbu. “As a result, we know the submarines inside and out, which appears to have
This in-depth knowledge comes from decades of
been of great added value in the upkeep of the Walrus
experience. Since it was established in 1935, Nevesbu
class. The naval shipyard regularly raises questions, and
has worked continuously on submarines for the
thanks to the knowledge we have accumulated over the
Dutch and foreign navies. In addition to the upkeep
past decades, we know exactly which specifications a
programme for the Walrus class, Nevesbu currently
solution must meet. Upkeep is part of our daily work.”
works on the construction, upkeep and modification of submarines in four other countries. But what exactly
Expanding our knowledge
does this specific knowledge entail, and how do we
The construction of the new fleet for the Dutch Ministry
apply it within projects?
of Defence is a dot on the horizon. “We have unique
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Three areas of expertise
This extreme balance is a direct reflection of the
When it comes to the design and integration of
complexity of modifying submarines. Changing anything
submarines, the expertise at Nevesbu can be divided
on a submarine immediately affects the entire design.
into three areas: new construction, upkeep and
“For example, if you need to replace a periscope, it will
modification. Nevesbu is also regularly approached by
not be exactly the same size and weight as the one you
various other countries seeking advice on seaworthiness.
are replacing. So, the whole vessel must be continuously
Bart: “We provide advice to countries that are
examined when making a modification.”
considering buying new submarines or modifying existing vessels, and we help them evaluate the
Undetectable
proposed designs. I think it’s a great compliment to
The key question is: why is the design or the
Nevesbu that we have this authority. It says something
implementation of modifications to a submarine so
about how we are perceived in the business.”
precise? The answer is simple: a submarine must be silent. “That is one of the most important requirements:
A submarine has at least half a million components.
it must be undetectable. Otherwise, it cannot do its job”, Bart continues. “Everything has to be silent. That means high demands are placed on the equipment
A submarine’s most important design requirement is
and its integration. It must not emit any noise, it must
that everything must be balanced. More so than with
be shock-proof, and the skin of the submarine must
other types of vessels. The balance of heat, energy
not be in direct contact with the equipment; otherwise,
and space has to be perfect. “It’s very precise”, Bart
it will also emit noise.” Submarines are designed to
acknowledges. “It’s up to us to judge whether this
operate unassisted for long periods because otherwise,
balance truly exists. It’s very interesting work.”
they would be detectable. The design incorporates redundancy, meaning that system B will take over if
Complex engineering
system A fails. Even if a submarine suffers severe damage
This balance must also be maintained in terms of
during a mission, it can still remain undetected. The
engineering. It is very complex because a submarine
equipment and a submarine’s shape and materials play
has at least half a million components. By comparison,
a vital role in avoiding detection. A submarine must
a passenger aircraft has around 100,000 components. “If
be able to move as smoothly and quietly as possible
you need to gain some space somewhere, it is always at
underwater so that it emits as little noise as possible,
the expense of something else. Changing one element,
reflects as little sound as possible and cannot be located
however small, has a domino effect on the design of
by sonar equipment.
a submarine. Every detail must be correct. And all that in a space that is 100 percent utilised. Not a single centimetre of design space left over.”
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3D model of an electric submarine
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Continuous knowledge development
seaworthiness of submarines. Bart: “It says a lot about us
Together with a knowledge institute and industry
that we are asked to advise on this. We want to continue
partners, Nevesbu is conducting development work in
to fulfil this role with the new fleet. When a question
the field of echo target strength in submarines. The R&D
is raised, we can answer it because we have this niche
programme is aimed at what is known as ‘echo target
knowledge. We want and need to be the knowledge
strength reduction’: mitigating sound reflection (echo)
experts in this field.”
when sonar is used to locate a submarine. It will become more apparent next year which supplier
The holy grail is for a submarine to be completely silent and untraceable.
will have the honour of building the new generation of submarines. Bart is confident that Nevesbu will have a role to play, following in the footsteps of the Walrus
“These are big steps we are taking”, says Bart. “It’s about
class. “In addition to designs, we provide the necessary
the coverings and use of materials on submarines. In
expertise to upkeep and modify a reliable and advanced
this R&D programme, we are working with partners
fleet, which is also good for the Netherlands.” Nevesbu
to develop and integrate materials that ensure sound
hopes that the next stage of the project will soon be
is absorbed and not reflected in the same direction.”
reached. That’ll be good for the Navy and the industry.
Nevesbu has been involved in this programme for years
Nevesbu is ready!
and, with a large group of specialists, has plenty to do
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for the coming years. “The holy grail is for a submarine to be completely silent and untraceable. This will never be entirely possible because a submarine needs machines and pumps to operate. But we can get as close as we can. With this programme, we are investigating how. The knowledge gained and shared is particularly valuable for Nevesbu and the other participating parties - knowledge development, thus.” Seaworthiness Overall, the expertise and intensive accumulation of knowledge (e.g., in cooperation with knowledge institutes) ensure Nevesbu maintains its unique position in the field of submarine technology in the Netherlands. For example, Nevesbu has been asked by the Seaworthiness Authority (part of the Ministry of Defence) to provide support in resolving issues relating to the 19
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TATA STEEL SPECIAL
Green steel in a clean environment Tata Steel Nederland is in the midst of a major
Decrease in emissions
transformation. The Netherlands’ largest and most
It is no secret that the steel company, part of the global
important steel producer wants to produce green
Tata Steel group, is under intense public pressure to
steel based on hydrogen in a clean environment
become more sustainable and reduce its CO2 emissions
by 2045. The plans are extensive and ambitious but
and other harmful pollutants as quickly as possible. The
necessary. As the IJmuiden-based company says: ‘We
process is already underway. Its emissions are already
have to act now because the world cannot wait.’
falling steadily due to all manner of measures, large and small. It is estimated that PAH emissions have fallen by 50
To achieve the 2045 goals, a path to clean, green and
percent since 2019. In 2010, the steel company emitted
circular steel is essential. Such is Project HeraCless
almost 30,000 kilograms of lead. In 2019, 1,300 kilograms
(hydrogen era, carbonless). In addition, Tata Steel aims
were emitted.
to drastically reduce the environmental impact of substances, odours, noise and PAHs (substances caused
These are significant reductions, but more is needed to
by incomplete combustion) through the Roadmap Plus
take the final and biggest steps. Tata Steel’s terrain will
programme.
change in appearance in the coming years. The two existing blast furnaces, Blast Furnace 6 and Blast Furnace
The environmental installation should reduce emissions of particulate matter, lead and heavy metals by approximately 80 percent.
7 are still in operation, but not indefinitely. Iv is helping Tata Steel achieve its goal of producing green steel in a clean environment. It will work both ways: both the steel-making process and its impact on the environment will change for the better.
Iv has been active at Tata Steel, formerly Koninklijke Hoogovens, since its foundation in 1949. Three-quarters
Two improvement programmes
of a century later, Tata Steel Nederland is facing the
Project HeraCless focuses on the production of clean,
biggest challenge in its history. Iv is there now, too, as
green and circular steel - the new Direct Reduced Iron
part of both Roadmap Plus and Project HeraCless.
(DRI) plant will be a key part of this. The environmental
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installation at the pellet factory (PEFA) is one of the
Nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions must also be significantly
biggest steps in the other programme, Roadmap Plus,
reduced. The dedusting installation will be directly
which aims to reduce emissions of particulate matter,
connected to the PEFA and will capture a large part of
lead and heavy metals, and thus realise a positive effect
the heavy metals, flue gases and dust through ‘filtering’.
on the immediate environment. The environmental
The DeNOx installation will primarily reduce nitrogen
installation consists of two parts: the dedusting
emissions through ‘washing’ and ‘scrubbing’. The water
installation and the DeNOx installation. The sheer size
from the dedusting installation will then be transported
of the environmental installation (approximately 170
to a new (to be built) water treatment plant.
metres long, 45 metres wide and 110 metres high at its highest point) makes it a literal main feature. The dedusting installation arrived in sections at the Tata Steel site in mid-2023 and is expected to be operational in the same year. The environmental installation should reduce emissions of particulate matter, lead and heavy metals, from the pellet plant by approximately 80 percent.
The dot on the horizon is steel production using hydrogen. Iv is playing a major role in these two improvement programmes and together with Tata Steel, has
Dust-removal and DeNOx installation
2025
Expected result:
-80% nitrogen oxide emissions No noise increase
developed and finalised the designs for the
80 m
environmental installation. From 2025, the dedusting installation will work in conjunction with the DeNOx installation. The deduster consists of no less than 6,000 10-metre bag filters, equivalent to 60 kilometres of filter
The PEFA (Pellet Factory) produces round balls (pellets) from iron ore. These pellets are a critical raw material for the production of pig iron. In addition to carbon dioxide (CO₂), significant amounts of nitrogen (N2) are released during the entire production process.
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35 m
cloth.
Pelletising Plant Processing ore for the production of liquid pig iron
Dust-removal installation metals and dust
TATA STEEL SPECIAL
Green steel
Chairman Hans van den Berg, CEO of Tata Steel
Then the road to ‘green steel’. What exactly does this
Nederland, pointed out earlier this year that every Dutch
involve? The biggest gains can be made mainly on the
citizen uses an average of about 1 kilo of steel per day.
process side of pig iron. Producing steel in a cleaner way
The annual steel production in IJmuiden is roughly
without emissions. Steel that leaves the Tata Steel site
equivalent to this demand: 7 million tonnes of high-
in large coils and is used, for example, in the production
quality steel leaves the site as large coils.
of cars (automotive industry), batteries (packaging industry) and buildings (construction industry). Steel is
The dot on the horizon is steel production using
everywhere.
hydrogen. The emergence and development of hydrogen is ongoing, but not yet to the point where a major steel producer such as Tata Steel can switch entirely to using hydrogen. That will take years. But until then, Tata Steel aims to use mainly natural gas (LNG) and reduce its dependency on coal, the largest contributor
DeNOx installation
to the emissions. Ore (sinter and pellets) and coal (later natural gas and hydrogen) are needed to produce liquid pig iron from which steel is made.
50 m
Impact Like Tata Steel, Iv is proud of this major development at the Netherlands’ most important steel producer. Rick de Jong, Programme Director at Iv: “Iv also wants to play a major role in Tata Steel’s huge sustainability task
50 m
in the coming years. Both in terms of feasibility studies and detailed engineering. Whether it concerns large, both are often equally as important in the overall chain.
15 m
90 m
complex engineering projects or solving smaller issues,
Scrubber salts and nitrogen oxides
Tata Steel wants and needs to become more sustainable, and we are happy to help. How fantastic is it to actually Cleans the cleaning water
contribute to making the steel industry in IJmuiden more sustainable? If we can make it work here, we will really be making progress. Relocation or closure is always a less favourable option.”
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At the moment, this task is not only huge but also highly complex and challenging. Rick: “I’m not someone who quickly views something as a problem; I prefer to tackle it as a challenge. We see it as an opportunity to make a difference in our world. Both now and in the future. The most important thing for us is staying sharp and making choices that enable others to continue. We must be critical and devise solutions that really make an impact.”
A gigantic windbreak, 18 metres high and about a kilometre long, will be put in place.
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TATA STEEL SPECIAL
Iv and Tata Steel: the history
An impression of our activities
Iv’s history dates back to 1949, when Henk Veth
In addition to the arrival of the PEFA dedusting
founded the Engineering and Architectural Firm H. Veth
installation, the DeNOx installation, and the Direct
in his attic in Rotterdam. The company’s first client was
Reduced Iron (DRI) plant in 2030, much more is
the steel construction company Van der Cammen, a
happening on the Tata Steel site. Many of the 200-plus
major supplier for Koninklijke Hoogovens. Koninklijke
sub-projects that Iv is undertaking in IJmuiden are linked
Nederlandse Hoogovens en Staalfabrieken NV was
to the Roadmap Plus programme (a clean environment)
established in 1918. In 1999, it merged with British
and Project HeraCless (producing green steel).
Steel and continued under the name Corus, which became part of Tata Steel in 2007. In Iv’s early years, the
Preparing the site for construction
IJmuiden steel producer was by far its most important
Still this year, Tata Steel plans to start the installation of
client. At that time, Iv mainly produced working
a gigantic windbreak on the south side of the site. Its
drawings for the company.
dimensions are impressive: 18 metres high and about a kilometre long. “The windbreak will reduce the wind
The collaboration continued following the acquisition
speed, which will prevent the materials from being
in 2007. A separate branch was set up by Iv to serve the
blown onto the beach”, explains Joeri Polderman, Project
entire portfolio, from raw material intake to product
Leader for Civil Engineering at Iv.
distribution. In recent years, the collaboration has intensified due to major sustainability programmes such as Roadmap Plus and Project HeraCless. Thanks to
Tata Steel has around 130 kilometres of railway under its own management.
this long-standing cooperation, Iv will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2024; we have a unique knowledge of
A number of site adaptations are required to install this
Tata Steel and vice versa. We, therefore, have extensive
huge windbreak. Iv has prepared the site by making it
knowledge of the site, including the thirteen factories
ready for construction. Making space for an object of this
and surrounding areas. We understand how complex
size goes far beyond digging a few holes to secure the
and challenging the site is, which processes take place
windbreak. “This installation involves moving sections of
where, and how everything is connected.
road, on which we carried out immediate maintenance, moving drainage gutters and adjusting and rerouting the sprinkler system”, says Joeri. Data cables and pipes were also relocated, and streetlights were moved. The windbreak is part of the Roadmap Plus programme.
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The trick is to ‘free up’ the area for the screen as optimally
Joey continues. “It really is like designing on a postage
as possible. Iv’s experience in civil infrastructure was
stamp. The lines of sight for the train driver have to be
utilised to handle this as efficiently and methodically
sufficient, which is no easy task with all the installations
as possible. Joeri: “It’s a beautiful project in a unique
and factories on site. Also, almost all the facilities have to
environment. You have to bear in mind that what we do
be accessible by rail. Avoiding all sorts of tight bends and
can affect the entire logistics of the raw materials on site.”
switches is preferable; it has to be as robust as possible.” What makes it even more interesting is that it not only
The railway: Tata Steel’s common thread
concerns the rail network. Joey: “There are also roads,
On the subject of logistics, Tata Steel has around 130
culverts and other infrastructure present that we all have
kilometres of railway under its own management.
to take into account. Taking care of that infrastructure as
Although the site is large (roughly 750 hectares, the
part of the whole makes the work fun and specific.”
size of the town of Bussum), this is an enormous amount. Tata Steel’s rail network is entirely focused on
Water treatment upgrade
the logistics business process. This business process is,
With all the (sustainability) adjustments on the Tata
therefore, dependent on the railway. The arrival of the
Steel site, not only will the infrastructure have to be
dedusting installation and the new factory (the Direct
adapted, but the water treatment plant will also need
Reduced Iron plant), among others, means that the rails
to be changed. Due to more substances such as
have to be adapted. The supply of materials from outside
metals, emissions, and gases soon being treated in the
the site by rail must also be taken into account.
dedusting installation, the water treatment system will
“Besides ProRail, Tata Steel is one of the largest rail
also need to be upgraded.
operators in the Netherlands”, says Joey Kortlever, Sector Head of the Rail Department at Iv. This immediately
Iv is responsible for re-evaluating the basic and detailed
highlights how vital the rail network is for the steel
engineering of the activities at the water treatment
company.
plant. The new components are a PEFA buffer (which processes substances from the pellet and coke plant), a
The changeover of the water treatment plant needs to be carried out in stages: without a single minute of downtime.
BNR (Biological Nitrogen Removal) reactor, two clarifiers and an odour treatment system. The existing treatment plant will be adapted and improved, including an expansion of the sand filters.
Iv has been asked to partially redesign the railway network; a huge puzzle in an environment that cannot be compared to other railways in the Netherlands. “For an engineer, this is a very interesting environment”,
26
TATA STEEL SPECIAL
In the BNR reactor, denitrification converts nitrate into nitrogen gas, the sole component of nitrogen. Nitrogen gas is not harmful and is exhaled by humans. About 80 percent of the air contains nitrogen gas (N2), not to be confused with nitrogen dioxide. (NO2). Ronald Schuilenburg is the Project Manager for this intensive and unique project. “As is often the case with this type of project, the changeover of the water treatment plant needs to be carried out in stages without the plant being out of operation for a single minute. This must be taken into account in the design to ensure that this is possible.” As with many other activities on the Tata Steel site, Ronald designs down to the square centimetre. “If you were to ask me whether I would rather have a vast, empty field to design on or this, I would choose the latter: it is very challenging to do. Especially because of the many Iv disciplines involved, such as colleagues with knowledge of industrial (waste) water, process engineering, media (piping & equipment engineering), mechanical, civil (concrete and steel) and E&I engineers. The diversity is very nice.” The engineering for the upgraded water treatment plant is expected to be completed early next year, followed
•
by the installation at the end of 2024, which will be operational in 2025.
The current water treatment installation gets a major upgrade.
27
Tata Steel Nederland zit midden in een enorme transformatie. De grootste en belangrijkste
is zelfs gedecimeerd. In 2010 stootte het staalbedrijf nog
staalproducent van Nederland heeft het doel om in
bijna 30.000 kilogram lood uit. In 2019 werd nog 1300
2045 groen staal te maken op basis van waterstof, in een
kilogram uitgestoten.
schone omgeving. De plannen zijn groot en ambitieus. Dat moet ook. Zoals het bedrijf uit IJmuiden zelf zegt:
Het zijn duidelijke dalingen, maar om de laatste en
“We moeten nu actie ondernemen, want de wereld kan
grootste stappen te kunnen zetten, is meer nodig.
niet wachten.”
Het terrein van Tata Steel verandert de komende jaren zichtbaar. De twee nog bestaande hoogovens,
Om de doelen van 2045 te behalen, is het noodzakelijk
Hoogoven 6 en Hoogoven 7, doen nu nog dienst, maar
dat er een route naar schoon, groen en circulair staal is.
ook dat is niet oneindig. Iv helpt Tata Steel bij het doel
Die ligt er in de vorm van het HeraCless-programma.
om groen staal te maken in een schone omgeving.
Daarnaast wil Tata Steel de overlast door stoffen, geuren,
Het mes snijdt dus aan twee kanten: zowel het
geluid en PAK’s (stoffen die ontstaan door onvolledige
productieproces van staal als de impact die het heeft op
verbranding) voor de omgeving drastisch terugdringen
de omgeving veranderen in positieve zin.
via het Roadmap Plus programma. Twee verbeterprogramma’s Iv is al sinds de oprichting in 1949 actief bij Tata Steel,
HeraCless is gericht op het produceren van schoon,
toen nog de Koninklijke Hoogovens. Driekwart eeuw
groen en circulair staal, waarbij de komst van een
later staat Tata Steel Nederland voor de grootste
nieuwe DRI (Direct Reduce Iron) plant het voornaamste
uitdaging uit haar geschiedenis. Iv is er ook nu bij. Zowel
onderdeel is. De milieu-installatie bij de pelletfabriek
binnen de Roadmap Plus als het HeraCless-programma.
(PEFA) is één van de grootste stappen in dat andere programma: Roadmap Plus, gericht op het
Daling van uitstoot
terugdringen van de uitstoot van lood, zware metalen
Het is geen geheim dat het staalbedrijf, onderdeel
en schadelijke stoffen, om zo een positief effect op
van de wereldwijde Tata Steel Group, onder forse
de directe omgeving te realiseren. Alleen al door zijn
maatschappelijke druk staat om in rap tempo te
indrukwekkende omvang (circa 170 meter lang, 45
verduurzamen en de uitstoot van CO2 en andere
meter breed en 110 meter op het hoogste punt) is de
schadelijke stoffen zo snel mogelijk terug te dringen. Dat
milieu-installatie een letterlijk hoogtepunt. Halverwege
proces is nu al gaande. Door allerlei kleine en grotere
2023 is de ontstoffingsinstallatie, als onderdeel van de
maatregelen daalt de uitstoot al gestaag. Sinds 2019
nieuwe milieu-installatie, op het terrein van Tata Steel in
is de uitstoot van PAK bijvoorbeeld met 50 procent
delen aangekomen. Deze wordt naar verwachting nog
afgenomen. De hoeveelheid lood die wordt uitgestoten,
hetzelfde jaar in gebruik genomen. De milieu-installatie moet de uitstoot van zware metalen, lood en stof bij de
28
TATA STEEL SPECIAL
From tip of the iceberg to complete solution Every day, hundreds of Tata Steel employees
Making a greater impact
are directly involved in the company’s biggest
The steel company set up three pillars to tackle the
sustainability challenge to date. Project Manager
problem: odour, noise and dust. “Our first thought was:
Vincent Waanders and Programme Manager Tjeerd
we need to stop this”, says Tjeerd. A budget of 100
Meenks talk about this enormous task, working with
million euros was set aside to reduce odour, dust and
parties such as Iv, and the magnifying glass under
noise emissions. However, this budget was quickly
which Tata Steel finds itself: ‘It’s nice to be able to
spent. In 2020, Tata Steel reviewed the first measures
explain to people that we really are working on it’.
that were taken. Tjeerd: “We hoped we had made a sufficient impact, but it was just the tip of the iceberg.
We have to go back to 2018 to understand why
We immediately started to work on the follow-up plan.”
Roadmap Plus, the comprehensive programme to reduce the environmental impact of substances, odours and noise, was created. In that year, the coastal town of Wijk aan Zee was in the news because of the so-called
The DeNOx installation must ensure a reduction in nitrogen (NOx) emissions of around 30 percent.
‘graphite rain’. The name says it all: graphite particles were raining down on the environment, which led to
This follow-up was given the name Roadmap Plus,
investigations by the RIVM, among others.
which is familiar to Iv. The largest part of this is the environmental installation at the pellet factory. This
That was the moment for Tata Steel to take action, says
installation consists of two parts: the dedusting
Tjeerd Meenks, Roadmap Plus Programme Manager
installation and the DeNOx installation. The first is
since that year. “We were receiving a lot of complaints
currently being installed and will be operational by
from the surrounding community. And although
the end of this year. The DeNOx installation is the last
we were (and are) complying with legislation and
‘trick’ from the Roadmap Plus. It will reduce nitrogen
regulations, inconvenience was experienced. The
(NOx) emissions by 30 percent from the entire site. The
graphite rain was a symbol of this.”
dedusting installation will help reduce emissions of
29
particulate matter (around 35 percent), heavy metals
working on it. Engineers are very close to the action
(55 percent) and lead (70 percent). Tata Steel adds that
and see it with their own eyes, but those further away
these percentages will be validated through external
perceive it less well. So, it’s important that we keep
assessments.
repeating the message that we are working hard to become greener, cleaner and more sustainable. This will
A good neighbour
work in the long term, but in the short term, we have to
Of course, reducing emissions is a crucial condition
accept the misunderstanding and frustration.”
for rounding off the business case. Because not being profitable means closing down. This scenario also
Understanding risks
applies if sustainability is not achieved and emissions
So, just keep going. This is a challenge because while
of gases, odours and substances are not reduced. In
the terrain is constantly changing, the processes have
this sense, being a ‘good neighbour’ is also required in
to be able to continue. “The complexity of this task is
such a process, says Tjeerd. “This is a standard, although
present in all dimensions”, Vincent continues. The whole
it is difficult to translate into specific requirements and
project has a brownfield character. This means: close to
figures. But what we mean by that is: for whatever may
the operational activities within which Tata Steel must
be mandatory in 5 or 10 years from now, couldn’t we
implement all these changes. “So you cannot work freely.
better take that on now to help the environment?”
That has a direct impact on how you approach and
Vincent Waanders is the Roadmap Plus Project Manager
complete the engineering. It is, therefore, genuinely nice
at Tata Steel’s engineering company (PTC). He further
to work with engineering parties like Iv that understand
explains the route outlined by Tjeerd. The route chosen
the risks and how to bring this to a successful outcome
was the one with the quickest environmental impact.
together.”
“The design process and delivery times for the DeNOx installation are taking a long time, which is why it will
Iv has been working on the Tata Steel site for years.
not be ready until 2025. We have decided to install the
This knowledge is vital, according to Vincent. “The fact
dedusting installation in advance to see the effect of it.”
that we have been working together for years makes a difference. We have a long-term relationship with Iv, so a
The whole project has a brownfield character.
quick word is often sufficient. It is very nice to work with external parties that know the site inside and out, have their own networks and know whom to contact. It saves
There is plainly a lot going on, both in public and behind
us a lot of work, prevents misunderstandings and has a
the scenes. The external pressure and the call to proceed
way of working well. To put it bluntly, even if we asked Iv
even faster are just as evident. Vincent: “Of course, it is
the wrong question, we would still get the right answer,
a subject often discussed at birthday gatherings. It’s
purely because of their expertise and experience.”
nice to be able to explain to people that we really are
30
TATA STEEL SPECIAL Highlight
also for the steel company’s employees. “Everyone wants
The dedusting installation will be operational later this
to make this a success. These kinds of milestones are
year. A milestone for Tata Steel and a visual change for
really free fuel for team spirit and loyalty. It feels like it
the site. Vincent: “The greatest satisfaction will come at
contributes to the final solution.”
Christmas when the installation is put into operation. Next year, I will have been with the company for 25 years and this operational launch will certainly be a highlight
This is about much more than making steel sheets.
of my years of service.” The project manager is well aware that this is a big deal, not only for the environment but
The Roadmap Plus programme is nearing completion, but the work is far from over. Over the next few years, Tata Steel will continue to invest heavily in the path to green steel via Project HeraCless, which is also underway. Iv will also play a major role in preparing the site and making it ready for the eventual installation of the Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) plant, which will be used to make green steel. These are long-term processes. “But giving up is
Van topje naar de ijsberg naar totaaloplossing
never an option”, they both declare. “We will succeed.
‘Het is geen optie om het maar half te doen’
The implications for the continuity of Tata Steel are
enormous. Not just for our jobs but for the entire Dagelijks werken honderden Tata Steel-medewerkers rechtstreeks aan de chain. People grootste verduurzamingsopgave van het staalbedrijf ooit. Projectmanager Vincentlearn a trade here, and it stimulates the Waanders en programmamanager Tjeerd Meenks vertellen over dieeconomy. enorme The preservation of knowledge, training and opdracht, de samenwerking met partijen als Iv en het vergrootglas craftsmanship waaronder Tatais extremely important. This is about much more than making steel sheets.” Steel ligt: ‘Het is fijn om uit te kunnen leggen dat je er echt mee bezig bent’ . Voor het ontstaan van de Roadmap Plus, het uitgebreide programma om overlast
•
van stoffen, geuren en geluid voor de omgeving terug te dringen, moeten we
The upcoming Direct Reduced Iron plant
31
WHAT MAKES IV SO SPECIAL? Friendly and open culture
Down to earth
Iv feels like a family business: you can always drop by other colleagues to discuss your ideas. You receive a lot of freedom as well as room for entrepreneurship.
Instead of just following trends, we examine the content critically. We innovate because we really want to contribute to the world of tomorrow.
Unique projects
Work hard, play hard
At Iv we work on projects that challenge us to push the boundaries of what is technically possible.
We like to have fun at Iv, which is why, for example, it has become a tradition to attend the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup.
Diversity From infrastructure to submarines: we are the most diverse engineering company in the Netherlands.
32
A selection of our vacancies: ► Project Leader Water Safety ► Junior Process Engineer ► Senior Piping Designer ► Lead Engineer Instrumentation ► Mechanical Engineer
Looking for a (graduate) internship? ► Building Engineering ► Structual Engineer Concrete ► Electrical Engineering ► Process Engineering
View all vacancies on
jobsativ.com
33
34
Dealing with climate uncertainties The changing climate presents us with major
had increased by as much as 12% between 1967 and
challenges worldwide, including creating a safe,
1972. On 9 July 1971, the Washington Post ran the
comfortable and future-proof living environment.
headline ‘New Ice Age Coming’ on an article by Dr S.
But how do we make our living environment as
Ichtiaque Rasool, the award-winning Chief Scientist for
climate and water resilient as possible? And how do
Global Change at NASA. In this article, he predicted that
we maintain the existing infrastructure in a safe and
increased fossil fuel emissions would lead to a significant
responsible way for as long as possible? The answers
drop in average global temperatures. However, the Royal
are not simple. Future-proof and sustainable design
Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) models now
requires a tailored approach. In this article, we explain
indicate the opposite: heat waves with temperatures
how Iv is dealing with climate change and uncertainty,
exceeding 40 degrees Celsius will become almost annual
and how we are ensuring our infrastructure – in the
occurrences towards the end of this century.
broadest sense – is fit for the future. Uncertain future “Prediction is very difficult, especially about the future” is
With adaptive design, we prepare the structure to adapt to changing (climatic) conditions in the future.
a well-known quote by Niels Bohr, the famous physicist of the 20th century. A challenge for civil engineers;
Dealing with uncertainties
after all, we design infrastructure that must operate
Fortunately, we are becoming better at dealing with
safely and reliably for decades or even hundreds of
(climate) uncertainties. Firstly, the United Nations’
years. Infrastructure, which involves significant public
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
investment and where poor decisions can lead to the
is taking a more nuanced view of the future. Using
destruction of capital.
different Shared Socio-Economic Pathways (SSPs) and taking the dynamic and particularly complex climate
To illustrate the above challenge, it was observed in
system and uncertainties into account, its latest
the 1970s that the average global temperature had
Assessment Report 6 (AR6) portrays a wide range of
been on a structural downward trend for 30 years and
potential scenarios regarding global CO₂ emissions,
that the amount of snow and ice covering the Earth
temperature, sea level rise, et cetera.
35
Secondly, civil engineers now seem to be the
the future, thus preventing us from making the ‘wrong’
most appropriate specialists to address the many
decisions now and incurring unnecessarily high (lifetime)
uncertainties. Managing uncertainty is the essence of
costs and/or releasing unnecessary pollutants.
(probabilistic) design. Rather than choosing one specific future, we choose to achieve an optimal design solution
Climate Agreement and National Adaptation
that incorporates a wide range of potential future
Strategy
load scenarios and their probabilities in relation to the
The Paris Climate Agreement, signed by the European
strength of the structures and systems in a balanced
Commission in 2016, was converted into the Dutch
and rational way. The development of this design
Climate Agreement in 2019. An agreement between
method has made great strides in civil engineering in
governments, businesses and public organisations with
the Netherlands since the design of the Eastern Scheldt
the aim to reduce greenhouse gases in the Netherlands
storm surge barrier (Oosterscheldekering) in the 1970s.
by 49 percent by 2030 compared to 1990. Although developments in sustainability are accelerating, the
Probabilistic design
question is whether this will be achieved. Moreover,
Probabilistic design explicitly accounts for risks and
climate change is happening regardless, and we are
uncertainties by mapping the possible variation
already experiencing its consequences. At the insistence
in material strength for all structural components,
of the European Commission, the Netherlands drew up
including the probability for each of these strengths.
its National Climate Adaptation Strategy (NAS) in 2016,
The components are subjected to all potential future
which was adopted by the House of Representatives at
loads resulting from (changing) use, climate change
the end of 2017.
and possible events such as fire, lightning, storm, flooding, long-term drought, et cetera, including the probability of occurrence. By designing the structure so that the likelihood of exceeding the strength
The aim is for raw materials, components and products to retain their value for as long as possible.
during the design life is (slightly) less than the legally acceptable risk of failure, we create an optimal structure
Our vision for sustainability and adaptation
that performs its functions with sufficient reliability at
The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and
minimum cost.
the probabilistic and adaptive approach described above form the basis of Iv’s sustainability vision. We
36
In addition, we take advantage of the dynamic nature
implement sustainable (diagnostic) asset management
of climate change by designing adaptively and thus
and climate-proof designs according to the ‘Butterfly
‘buying time’. With adaptive design, we prepare the
Diagram’ developed by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
structure to adapt to changing (climatic) conditions in
This model describes the continuous flow of biological
(green side) and technical (blue side) materials within
circles: User → Maintain/Prolong → Reuse/Redistribute
‘value circles’ in a circular economy. The aim is for raw
→ Refurbish/Remanufacture → Recycle → Waste. In our
materials, components and products to retain their value
design and asset management approach, we strive to
for as long as possible. This forms part of our day-to-
achieve the optimal solution within the following set of
day work: keeping civil engineering works safe for as
conditions:
long as possible, thereby saving on the use of materials.
► Maintain as small a circle as possible for as long as
possible.
We design new structures that are as innovative and sustainable as possible and focus on climate adaptation
► Fulfil the objectives of the Climate Agreement.
and reducing the use of raw materials. Furthermore, we
► Minimise (public) lifespan costs.
investigate the origin of raw materials to help us design
► Sustainable (diagnostic) asset management
as circularly as possible. This means that our initial focus is on extending the In our sustainability vision, the focus lies on the
use of existing infrastructure, ideally without substantial
technical (right) side of the Butterfly Diagram, where our
life-extending adjustments. We do this by measuring,
infrastructure is represented in stages by the following
monitoring, inspecting, testing, analysing and/or
MIJNBOUW/MATERIALEN/ ENERGIE PRODUCTIE
BIOLOGISCHE KRINGLOOP
LANDBOUW, JAGEN, VERZAMELEN
BIOCHEMICAL FEEDSTOCK BODEM HERSTEL
STOCK MANAGEMENT
MATERIAAL FABRIKANT
PRODUCT FABRIKANT
BIOSFEER
VERKOOP / DISTRIBUTIE
OPKNAPPEN/ HERFABRICAGE DELEN HERGEBRUIK/ HERDISTRIBUEREN
BIOGAS
ONDERHOUD LEVERSDUUR VERLENGEN
CASCADES
CONSUMENT ANAEROBE VERTERING/ COMPOSTERING
INZAMELING
GEBRUIKER INZAMELING
EXTRACTIE VAN BIOCHEMISCHE GRONDSTOFFEN
MINIMISE SYSTEMATIC LEAKAGE AND NEGATIVE EXTERNALITIES
The butterfly diagram: visualising the circular economy. Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2011
37
calculating the structure or installation. A typical
For heat resistance, we use the 3D scan car to automate
example is the method Iv has developed for load testing
the mapping of tree populations, including number,
bridges. We apply loads in a controlled and gradual
height, crown volume, trunk size, CO₂ uptake and, for
manner, and by meticulously monitoring and analysing
example, water storage. Just as the KNMI scenarios
the (failure) behaviour of the bridge, we determine the
suggest, we are preparing for heavier rainfall and
actual capacity. Our experience shows that bridges
prolonged droughts, putting further pressure on water
are often stronger than what is demonstrated by a
supplies. Our existing infrastructure, such as sewerage
current theoretical test on the basis of which bridges are
systems, water storage and the management thereof, is
often replaced. In this way, we keep the loop as small
not yet adequately equipped to deal with this. Our water
as possible, minimise CO₂, particulate and nitrogen
systems need to be resilient for the future to ensure
emissions, and avoid inconvenience to users at minimal
rainwater is adequately drained and stored so that we
cost. This is what we refer to as Diagnostic Asset
can use our water supply as efficiently as possible in
Management.
times of scarcity and surplus.
We explore innovative ways to apply adaptations and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Climate-proof designs When designing new and existing infrastructure and land use plans, we work as probabilistically as possible and base our designs on a range of future scenarios.
Loading tests for bridges
We explore innovative ways to apply adaptations and
In this context, Iv also conducts the so-called ‘stress
reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
test’ for governments, in which an area’s vulnerability
38
to climate issues is mapped. We do this using state-
In the latter context, we aim to reuse the structure
of-the-art software that allows us to hydraulically
or installation as integrally as possible, possibly in an
calculate drainage systems for rainwater, surface
adapted form. This may involve ‘moving’ a bridge to
water, and soil modelling. Based on the Current Dutch
another location or reusing bridge girders. The final
Elevation (Actueel Hoogtebestand Nederland, AHN), the
circular fallback option is to recycle materials, such
Climate Impact Atlas (Klimaateffectatlas) and our own
as concrete, wood and steel, among other materials,
measurements, we map all vulnerabilities related to heat
into usable raw materials for new applications. Finding
resistance, precipitation and drought.
a replacement solution for the complete or partially
dismantled structure or installation is often necessary in
number of transport movements. With this sustainability
these situations. We apply the same conditions to new
vision, Iv optimally, rationally and responsibly
construction and replacement as in asset management.
implements the Climate Change Agreement and the
Wherever possible, we choose reusable materials or
National Adaptation Strategy in civil infrastructure.
components and strive to minimise the CO2 footprint
Not by predicting the future with precision but by
during the realisation and use of the structure and
addressing (future) uncertainties in the best possible
minimise the maintenance required. We also design
way. After all, we would rather be right about being
dikes and embankments using local soil to reduce the
uncertain than definitely wrong.
Dynamic 3D scan (point cloud) and tree population analysis with the scan car.
•
39
Several waste streams arrive at the Heros Sluiskil site.
40
A collective approach could improve the health of the water chain The quality of water, in the broadest sense of the
This is particularly challenging in the case of PFAS.
word, is under pressure. This means contaminants
PFAS stands for ‘Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances’, a
such as PFAS, nitrogen, micro-organisms, and
collective name for over 6,000 synthetic substances that
medicinal residues have disrupted the natural
do not occur naturally. PFAS have useful properties. For
balance, and recovery may not always be possible
example, they repel dirt, grease and water and are found
independently. However, the good news is that the
in clothing, textiles, non-stick pans and food packaging.
water sector is becoming increasingly aware that the water chain needs a helping hand. So, how are we doing this?
We are all responsible for the quality of the water chain.
What is the water chain?
Not degradable
The water chain refers to the chain for human use.
The main disadvantage of PFAS is that they are difficult
The water chain (cycle) consists of water production
to remove once present in the natural environment and,
(by drinking water companies and individual water
thus, also in water. PFAS do not degrade naturally, and
extraction), water consumption (households, companies
the presence thereof carries negative environmental and
and institutions), water collection and transportation
health consequences.
(municipalities and water boards) and (waste)water
However, the presence of PFAS in water is not the only
treatment (by water boards). In short, production,
challenge facing water boards, the industrial sector and
consumption, collection/transportation and wastewater
drinking water companies. Nitrogen can also be found
treatment.
in water. Crops, for example, can absorb nitrogen from fertilisers. If too much nitrogen is in the water, it will
The chain is disrupted when something becomes
enter the water chain in the form of nitrate. This nitrate
unbalanced in one or more of these processes.
causes eutrophication, leading to algae growth, water
Disruption already occurs when unwanted substances,
clouding and the decline of larger aquatic plants. Thus
such as PFAS, are present in too many parts of the
leading to the demise of fish types dependent on clear
chain. When this happens, measures must be taken.
water and shelter provided by larger plants.
41
Is it possible to prevent these substances from entering
Nitrogen removal
the water chain? No, says Paul Kloet, Deputy Director of
Iv is also active at ATM in Moerdijk. ATM processes
Iv-Water: “That may not be a happy message, but it’s not
hazardous waste and produces circular raw materials
feasible. Substances such as PFAS have penetrated nature
from it. Here, the problem is not only PFAS but also
to such an extent that it is impossible to remove them
nitrogen concentration that is too high. The aim of pre-
altogether. This goes far beyond what is visibly floating on
treatment is to reduce the nitrogen presence to a level
the surface or in the undercurrents of oceans and rivers.
that does not interfere with the biological properties and
PFAS are much smaller than that and cannot be broken
allows the water to be sent to a water treatment plant
down naturally.”
for further processing, both now and in the future. These are examples of industrial parties actively
Tackling side streams more efficiently
and decisively seeking treatment technologies and
The industrial sector is working hard to remove PFAS from
applications to avoid placing a greater burden on the
its (waste)water streams. Iv is active at the Zeeland-based waste processor HEROS. HEROS is a company that makes a valuable contribution to the beneficial reuse of waste streams. These waste streams can contain small or large amounts of PFAS, which is why HEROS has conducted research into the treatment of PFAS. This is now being taken a step further. Paul explains: “Waste arrives at HEROS via many different side streams. If we know which streams usually contain a concentration of PFAS, we can focus on those particular side streams.” This is good news for companies: the technical capabilities are available, but such treatment technology is expensive. The more precise HEROS and similar companies can work, the more efficiently they can operate.
The sense of urgency is growing, which is good. A pilot setup is currently being built at the waste processor, where Iv’s task is to apply the correct treatment technology. “And then we will monitor how it develops. We can learn a lot from this.”
42
Work on the quay at Heros Sluiskil.
water chain than is currently the case. There are also
Partner of the Industrielinqs platform
many examples of industrial parties collaborating to
A few years ago, Iv-Water became a partner of
address challenges together, for example, by pooling
Industrielinqs, a (knowledge) platform that aims to
wastewater streams to apply better treatment and
connect interested parties in the industrial sector.
achieve greater efficiency or using treated effluent
Industrielinqs, led by Wim Raaijen (co-author of the book
directly as process water.
‘Proactieve Coalities’), is the organiser of the Watervisie event, among others. The platform helps companies to
Doing nothing is pretty much the worst option.
unite and share knowledge and presents opportunities to collaborate. We can focus on common goals, ambitions and responsibilities by forming a coalition.
Water boards and water companies are also investing heavily in treatment methods and technologies. A
Paul: “I’m in favour of that too. If we can tackle more major
promising sign, says Paul. “The sense of urgency is
water issues by working together, that would be great.
growing, which is good. We are becoming increasingly
Sometimes, we reach the limits of what we can do and
aware that we all have a role to play and that it cannot
how much nature can take. The natural world can’t work
be left to one party alone. We are all responsible for the
any harder. But we can organise ourselves better within
quality of the water chain and for not interfering with
the water sector and tackle problems from there. Because
nature.”
doing nothing is pretty much the worst option.”
•
The role of water boards and drinking water companies Industrial effluent is often further treated at municipal water treatment plants. This treatment is vital as it is essentially the chain’s final link before discharge to surface water and prevents harmful substances from entering the environment. Effluent polishing is thereby also an important theme. Drinking water companies depend on the quality of the groundwater and surface water they use to produce drinking water. Furthermore, the availability of sufficient fresh water is also under pressure.
43
The Heave Chief 1100 of Seaqualize. 44
Groundbreaking lifting technology accelerates energy transition The energy transition is in full swing worldwide.
(or other objects) to and from a floating vessel or from
Accelerating processes to speed up the transition
a floating vessel to a fixed object in this way. Over the
is very complicated. But it is necessary because
next few decades, thousands of wind turbines (or other
resources, materials and labour are scarce and
energy hubs) will be installed at sea. While offshore
often already fully utilised. Iv has helped the Dutch
construction can typically only be carried out at a rapid
company Seaqualize develop the design for the Heave
pace during a limited part of the year - the summer
Chief 1100: a new lifting tool that can safely, quickly
months - Seaqualize estimates that work will continue
and simply lift and install wind turbine components
for an average of eighty percent of the year because the
weighing up to 1100 tonnes from a floating vessel. As
tool can be deployed in poor weather conditions and
a result, work on offshore wind farms can continue
high seas; literally accelerating the energy transition. In
in stronger winds and higher waves, which is not
addition, the HC1100 is completely wireless, and the
possible with conventional systems.
battery only requires a recharge after approximately 12 hours of operation, saving time and limiting emissions
The Seaqualize Heave Chief 1100 (HC1100) is a
compared to current diesel-powered offshore machines.
breakthrough in this regard. The compact lifting device can lift objects weighing 1100 tonnes from a floating vessel and place or install them on a fixed or moving object while the crane vessel itself rolls and pitches. The
The heave compensator can compensate for the vessels’ motions at sea due to swell.
HC1100 is currently on its first assignment at an offshore wind farm off the American coast of Massachusetts. The
Operation
heave compensator hangs in the hook of an existing
The HC1100 can hold a suspended load of 1100 tonnes,
offshore crane on board the supply vessel transporting
the equivalent of approximately twenty HGVs with
the turbine components.
fully loaded trailers, still against the motions of the vessel, thus facilitating the lifting and installation of the
Unique in its kind
largest wind farm components from a floating vessel.
So why is this project and application so unique? Firstly,
The heave compensator has been extensively tested
there is currently no other lifting device that can safely
and can compensate for the vessels’ motions at sea
and efficiently lift such large wind turbine components
due to swell, making installation safer, faster, and more
45
straightforward. Not only does its operation require
Pressure cooker
relatively little power, but it is also controlled, without
The eleven-metre-high Heave Chief 1100 has been
large impact loads and without the load landing
extensively assessed and tested in advance. The design
multiple times on the vessel. The HC1100 has an ‘active
was tested by simulating the different load combinations
tracking mode’ that, in effect, copies every motion of
and analysing the stress distribution in the various
a heaving vessel up to a wave height of 3.5 metres. By
components. The final design was concluded, and the
mimicking the motions, the HC1100 makes the same
lifting device was built. Iv remained closely involved
movements, preventing the suspended object from
throughout this phase. The tempo and short lines of
striking the vessel.
communication between the client, the contractor and the Iv design team created a pressure cooker effect: the
The HC1100 was built and successfully tested in a relatively short time. High requirements at sea Seaqualize involved Iv in developing the mechanical
HC1100 was built and successfully tested in a relatively short time.
The design of the HC2000 is certainly no ‘copy-paste’ exercise.
part of the HC1100 from the very first design. Xander Verseveldt, Mechanical Project Manager at Iv: “We
Making an impact
developed the concept design into the final design
The HC1100 will help accelerate the energy transition.
for the structural and mechanical part of the project.”
Seaqualize devised the concept and technology behind
The application and the high requirements made this
this lifting tool. Iv has now become a permanent partner
project quite a challenge. The HC1100 will be working
for mechanical engineering. Gjalt Lindeboom, Managing
at sea, so it is highly undesirable for damage to occur
Director of Seaqualize adds: “In particular, the knowledge
or maintenance to be required. Simply returning to
required to design moving, high-precision and heavy
shore is not an option. “This tool operates in many
offshore tools is present and available at Iv. Iv is to the
different configurations. It contains a lot of mechanical
point, realistic and efficient in its communication and
components and pivots that we have integrated into
has all the structural design expertise in-house. We see Iv
a relatively small area. In combination with the high
as a solid partner in developing our products.”
requirements, this has been a really nice project for us,” says Xander. The project was so well received by Seaqualize that Iv was also asked to upgrade the HC600 to 750 tonnes: the HC750.
46
The work for Seaqualize is not yet complete. After
Out of the ordinary
the HC750 and HC1100, plans are already underway
Xander: “There’s a certain amount of pride that we
to develop the HC2000. The name says it all: this
were able to be a part of this”, he says. “The process was
big brother of its two predecessors will be capable
fascinating, and it has been built really well. It’s great that
of installing objects and components weighing no
we’ll be working together again.” Jaco van der Schans,
less than 2 million kilos. The design process for this is
Managing Director of Iv-Consult, shares his opinion:
certainly no ‘copy-paste’ exercise. The increased lifting
“Seaqualize’s wealth of knowledge and pioneering ideas
capacity requires necessary adjustments to the design.
have left a lasting impression on me. We pride ourselves on accepting ‘out of the ordinary’ projects like this. Our team is trained to take on such challenges. We’ve had
•
such a fantastic time, and we look forward to our next collaboration.”
47
Engineers with Passion for Technology Iv-Groep is a globally operating multidisciplinary engineering company. Since 1949, Iv has been devising technical solutions for projects of any size and complexity within the following sectors: Industry, Infrastructure & Traffic, Buidings & Installations, Handling, Maritime, Offshore & Energy and Water. No challenge is too complicated for us. We are a team of specialists with a genuine passion for our specialisms: with our knowledge of technology, we can achieve the most for our customer.