We supported a major boiler replacement project at the Johnstons of Elgin manufacturing facility, delivering a comprehensive package of specialist engineering works to support the continued operation of one of Scotland’s best-known textile manufacturers.
Working for main contractor Dunphy, our team installed a new Cochran boiler and Dunphy burner, together with all associated pipework. Our involvement also included the safe removal of the existing obsolete boiler and equipment, alongside structural works, including the creation of new gantries and stairs.
The project demonstrates the breadth of our capabilities, combining specialist boiler installation, lift and shift operations, pipework, fabrication and structural engineering within a demanding industrial environment.
The Challenge
The replacement of a boiler within an established manufacturing facility requires careful planning and coordination to ensure the work is completed safely and efficiently.
At Johnstons of Elgin’s Newmill site, the existing obsolete boiler and associated equipment needed to be removed to make way for the new installation. The project also required additional structural work to accommodate the new system, including new gantries and stairs.
Delivering this varied package of works required close collaboration between the main contractor, specialist engineering teams and Johnstons of Elgin’s in-house personnel to coordinate the different elements of the project and ensure a successful installation.
Our Solution
Working alongside main contractor Dunphy, we delivered a comprehensive package of specialist engineering services as part of the boiler replacement project.
Our scope included the installation of a new Cochran boiler and Dunphy burner, together with all associated pipework. We also provided a specialist lift and shift service to safely remove the existing boiler and associated equipment. In addition, our team undertook the structural works required to support the installation, including the creation of new gantries and stairs.
The project brought together several areas of our expertise, with detailed planning and close coordination between James Ramsay, Dunphy and the wider project team throughout.
Marc Millar, Steam and Technical Project Director at James Ramsay, said: “This was a great project for the team and a good showcase of the range of specialist services we can provide as part of a major boiler installation service – encompassing the specialist lift and shift elements and additional structural and fabrication work.
“Thanks to Dunphy for the opportunity to support the project and to everyone involved for their collaboration throughout. These projects require detailed coordination between all involved, and we worked closely with Dunphy and the wider project team throughout to ensure the installation was delivered safely, efficiently and to the highest standard. We’re pleased to have played our part in supporting this important upgrade at Johnstons of Elgin.”
The Impact
The new boiler forms part of Johnstons of Elgin’s continued investment in its Newmill manufacturing site, helping to enhance the efficiency and reliability of its operations. While a full transition away from gas is not yet possible, the investment is expected to reduce energy consumption and lower the site’s carbon footprint as part of the company’s wider energy reduction plan.
Willie Stewart, Head of Engineering at Johnstons of Elgin, said: “This boiler replacement is an important part of our continued investment in the Newmill site and will help enhance the efficiency and reliability of our operations. While we are not yet able to fully decarbonise from gas, this investment allows us to reduce energy consumption and lower our carbon footprint as part of our wider energy reduction plan.
“Delivering a project of this scale requires careful planning, strong partnerships, and a collaborative approach. I’d like to thank Dunphy, James Ramsay and our in-house maintenance team for their professionalism, expertise, and commitment throughout the project.”
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