Critical infrastructure demands critical thinking. When a major liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminal undertook a significant capacity expansion, Imperium Engineering was appointed to deliver specialist structural engineering design for an extension supporting new process facilities. The project formed part of a broader effort to reinforce the UK’s energy resilience and operational continuity.
Working within one of the most safety-regulated environments in the country, we developed a robust structural solution that balanced compliance, durability, and integration with existing systems.
Project Highlights
- Structural design for extension to a live LNG terminal
- Coordination with MEP and process engineering teams
- Compliance with COMAH and National Grid safety protocols
- Integration of structural steelwork into live process plant
- Advanced groundworks design to mitigate settlement risk
Structural Engineering in Hazardous Environments
LNG facilities are among the most tightly controlled construction environments in the UK, governed by both health & safety legislation and hazardous material handling regulations. Every structural component must meet elevated standards—not only in design loads and fire resistance, but also in how it integrates with mechanical plant and emergency access systems.
We began by assessing the proposed footprint for the process facility expansion and reviewing existing structural records to understand the site’s load-bearing history and previous phases. The new works required:
- Steel framing systems with open bays for process plant installation
- Secondary support for cable trays, pipework, and gantries
- High-performance concrete pads and piled foundations
- Platform-level structural interfaces with safety-critical systems
Foundation and Ground Engineering
Due to uneven historical loading and known subsurface variability, we developed a ground improvement and foundation strategy that accounted for:
- Load distribution across process plant zones
- Differential settlement mitigation
- Coordination with below-grade utility runs and drainage
A combination of reinforced concrete pads and piled footings was implemented, with differential movement joints introduced at key structural transitions. Our team worked with geotechnical consultants to carry out ground bearing tests and model settlement behaviour under full operational load.
Live Site Integration and Programme Delivery
All work was conducted within a live energy facility operating under strict COMAH regulations. Our engineers provided full construction sequencing plans, including:
- Offsite prefabrication of steel components
- Craneage logistics minimising disruption to LNG deliveries
- Redundant access and emergency egress clearances during each construction phase
All structural drawings and calculations were reviewed and signed off in coordination with the principal designer and site HSE representatives. We also supported contractor queries during live install, ensuring every anchor, splice, and interface was built exactly as modelled.
Outcome
The structural extension was delivered on schedule, enabling the installation of new LNG processing systems with zero disruption to site operations. By combining energy sector structural engineering expertise with practical construction knowledge, Imperium Engineering helped reinforce the resilience of the UK’s gas supply network.
In high-risk, high-value environments, precision isn’t optional—it’s the baseline. This project demonstrates our ability to deliver critical infrastructure with clarity, confidence, and technical authority.
