J Johnstone Engineering recently carried out the removal and replacement of a large stainless steel wastewater tank, along with associated pipework alterations and safety improvements at a site in Silloth, Cumbria.
The project involved replacing a 40,000-litre stainless steel wastewater tank that had become damaged after being crushed under vacuum pressure when a vent became blocked during operation.
Our team was tasked with safely removing the damaged tank and installing a replacement unit while also modifying the pipework connections to suit the existing system.
Removal of Damaged Wastewater Tank
The original stainless steel tank had collapsed under vacuum pressure after a ventilation issue caused pressure to build within the vessel.
Due to the size and weight of the tank, the removal process required the use of a mobile crane to lift the damaged tank out safely.
Once the damaged tank had been removed, preparations were made to install a replacement second-hand stainless steel tank, which would be adapted to suit the existing system.
Installation of Replacement Tank
The replacement tank was delivered to site and lifted into position using a crane before being carefully aligned and secured.
Once the tank was in place, our team began modifying the pipework and connections to integrate the tank into the existing wastewater system.
Pipework Alterations and Fabrication
The installation required a number of pipework modifications, including:
• alteration of inlet and outlet pipework
• modification of flange connections
• installation of a level sensor connection point
• fabrication of additional pipe sections to suit the existing layout
All pipework components were fabricated in-house at our Silloth workshop before being installed on site by our engineering team.
Safety Railings Installed for Tank Access
As part of the project, we also fabricated and installed a steel railing system around the top of the tank.
This provides a safe working area for operators who need regular access to the tank during maintenance and monitoring operations.
The railing system helps ensure safe access for staff while the system is in regular use.
Industrial Fabrication and Engineering Services in Cumbria
Alongside structural steelwork for construction projects, J Johnstone Engineering also undertake industrial fabrication, plant modifications and repair work for clients across Cumbria.
From stainless steel tanks and pipework systems to structural steel installations and bespoke fabrication, our team regularly support projects requiring both workshop fabrication and on-site engineering solutions.
Fabrication and Engineering Services Across Cumbria
From our family-run workshop in Silloth, Cumbria, J Johnstone Engineering provide fabrication and engineering services for projects across the region including:
• Silloth
• Carlisle
• Brampton
• Workington
• Whitehaven
• Cockermouth
• the wider Lake District and West Cumbria
Our work includes:
• structural steel fabrication and installation
• stainless steel fabrication
• industrial pipework and plant modifications
• bespoke railings and architectural metalwork
• workshop fabrication and on-site installation
With nearly four decades of experience, we continue to support construction and engineering projects across Cumbria.

