Van Elle’s ScrewFast team, responsible for delivering helical piling and modular steel foundation solutions, has successfully completed the first phase of works at South Shields Substation, supporting National Grid plc’s programme to install innovative Power Flow Control (PFC) technology and improve network capacity and operational efficiency.
Working on behalf of Omexom UK, this phase involved installing 541 No. helical piles of varying diameters and depths, 114 No. steel grillages, 45 No. floating top-hat steel frames, 8No. working test piles and 3 No. sacrificial test piles.
These installations provide the foundations for a range of substation structures, contributing directly to the successful implementation of PFC technology and improved network performance.
Komatsu PC138 and PC228 excavators were used, supported by a Komatsu PC360 for the larger-diameter gantry piles, ensuring both precision and efficiency.
Further visits are planned for later in 2026 and again in 2027 during planned power outages to complete the works.
All helical piles and steel grillages have been fully fabricated in-house, with the full scope now ready for installation later this year and in 2027, ensuring quality, precision, and timely delivery.
This solution provides immediate load-bearing capability, allowing follow-on construction to proceed without delay. Its reusable, low-impact design combines efficiency, safety, and sustainability, delivering a robust foundation system suitable for a wide range of projects and site conditions.
For more information about our capabilities, or to discuss how we can support your project, please contact us on 01773 580580 or email enquiries@van-elle.co.uk