Steam has played a vital role in British manufacturing for generations, and at Kenneth Mackenzie Harris Tweed in Stornoway, it remains central to the production of one of Scotland’s most iconic textiles.
Founded in 1906, Kenneth Mackenzie celebrated 120 years of continuous production in 2026, supplying Harris Tweed to customers across the UK and international markets. As the historic mill continues to invest in new machinery and production processes to improve efficiency and support growth, maintaining reliable steam infrastructure is essential.
We were appointed to supply and install a new Cochran ST23 steam boiler, replacing obsolete equipment at the mill. The project demonstrates our expertise in delivering specialist steam engineering solutions for industrial and manufacturing clients, combining technical capability with careful planning and close collaboration to support critical production operations.
The Challenge
Replacing an ageing boiler within an established manufacturing facility requires more than installing new equipment. The steam system must deliver reliable performance while meeting the operational demands of the business and supporting its long-term development.
For Kenneth Mackenzie, the replacement formed part of a wider investment in the mill’s infrastructure as the business continued to modernise its production processes and expand into domestic and international markets.
The project also presented logistical challenges, with the team working on the remote Scottish island of Lewis. Careful coordination with the client’s on-site team was essential to deliver the installation within a tight plant shutdown window and minimise disruption to production.
The priority was to replace the obsolete equipment efficiently and establish a dependable steam solution capable of supporting the mill’s operations for years to come.
Our Solution
We supplied and installed a new Cochran ST23 packaged steam boiler, selected to provide efficient, reliable steam generation within a compact footprint. Designed for industrial applications, the ST23 offers an output range of 1,000kg/hr to 6,000kg/hr and can be configured with a range of combustion and control packages.
Working closely with the Kenneth Mackenzie team, we coordinated the replacement around the mill’s shutdown schedule, ensuring the installation was completed efficiently, and the steam system could return to operation as quickly as possible.
The project was led by our experienced steam engineering team, supported by effective project management and close communication with the client throughout delivery. This collaborative approach enabled us to manage the practical demands of working at a remote location while maintaining our focus on installation quality, reliability and long-term performance.
The result was a modernised steam installation tailored to the mill’s operational requirements and designed to provide a resilient foundation for its continued production.
The Impact
The successful boiler replacement has strengthened the reliability and resilience of Kenneth Mackenzie’s steam infrastructure, supporting the business as it continues to invest in its manufacturing operations and build on 120 years of production heritage.
By replacing obsolete equipment with a modern Cochran ST23 boiler, the project provides a dependable steam generation solution designed to support ongoing operational requirements and future development.
The project also highlights our ability to deliver specialist industrial engineering projects in challenging locations, combining technical expertise, careful shutdown planning and a partnership-led approach to achieve a high-quality installation with minimal disruption.
For Kenneth Mackenzie, the investment supports the continued production of Harris Tweed, preserving an important part of Scotland’s manufacturing heritage while helping the business prepare for its next chapter.
Nichola Lockerby, Managing Director at Kenneth Mackenzie, said: “James Ramsay did a fantastic job from start to finish. They understood the importance of keeping to our shutdown schedule and worked closely with our team to complete the boiler replacement efficiently and with minimal disruption.
“The team was professional, reliable and supportive throughout, and we always felt the project was in safe hands. We’re very pleased with the quality of the installation and the reliable, resilient steam solution it provides for the future and Kenneth Mackenzie’s next 120 years!
“I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend James Ramsay to anyone.”
