Alifabs were appointed by the National Grid Plc to design and manufacture Aluminium structures to support equipment for a 132kV sub station in West Melton. This project was to be a trial site for supporting frames made in Aluminium rather that conventional concrete and steel structures. Current stations require a 5 yearly maintenance visit for additional treatment to the steel structures but this project was to achieve a 40 year maintenance free period which Aluminium can attain. 
Alifabs worked together with the engineers from the National Grid to achieve the desired structures utilizing British Standard structural Aluminium sections. These specific sections were not available within the industry so new dies were cut and extrusions produced to fulfil the requirements. 
Part of Alifabs workshop was converted and dedicated to production of these structures. Aconsiderable amount of time was invested in prototypes and jig manufacture together with the purchase of new ‘Push / Pull’ MIG welding equipment. Seven welding bays were set-up with tested and certified welders to produce the quantities of frames required each week.
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