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Customer: Watercare Services Ltd Contract type: Construct only Location: Auckland, New Zealand   |
Fast Facts
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McConnell Dowell’s Mechanical Division has a long history of upgrades and renewals at the Māngere Wastewater Treatment Plant, and late last year, Watercare awarded the team a project to upgrade Digester 8.
The Digester 8 Tank is one of eight mesophilic anaerobic digester tanks at the plant where wastewater is stored. Inside this pressure vessel, bacteria break down the organic matter as part of the treatment process. The three-year-long scope of work includes:
- Inspecting and repairing the pipes and fittings inside the tank,
- Creating a safe access platform for valve maintenance
- Replacing the roof
- Constructing a foundation slab suitable for lifting
- Designing and installing a support system for the emergency shutdown pipes
- Repairs to the internal scaffolding and surfaces
The aim is to improve and extend the digester's working life, which, when regularly maintained, can last up to 50 years.
Some of the work required has already been completed, such as the recycling of the old roof. An amazing 100 tonnes of steel were recycled from the tool, bringing the total steel recycled on the project to date to 150 tonnes.
Wherever possible, the team are reducing, reusing or recycling materials and choosing sustainable construction options. Approximately 98% of the waste on the project has been diverted from landfill, surpassing the company-wide target of 90% and aligning with Watercare’s sustainability policy.
The project will be completed at the end of 2026.
