An industrial project in a class of its own: PERI promotes the development of sustainable fuels

The energy transition is reliant on strong partners and innovative solutions. One of Europe’s largest biofuel refineries is being built as part of the Rotterdam Capacity Growth (RDCG) project. This will see production capacity increase from 1.4 to 2.7 million tonnes per year. Sustainable aviation fuel will make up 1.2 million tonnes of this figure, driving forward the decarbonisation of air transport.

The challenge: strict regulations and changing conditions

The RDCG project posed a number of technical and logistical challenges that required an innovative approach to scaffolding: strict safety regulations prohibited the use of wooden materials and drilling or welding work on reinforced concrete or steel. At the same time, around 1.3 kilometres of pipelines had to be made accessible with up to four working levels. Most of the working platforms were installed in a suspended manner so that excavation work could continue underneath them. The ever-evolving conditions on the construction site also meant that the temporary stair towers had to be repositioned on a regular basis. These framework conditions called for a scaffolding system that would ensure flexibility, safety and a smooth workflow between the suspended working platforms.

The solution: integrated PERI solutions and modular scaffolding technology

To overcome these complex challenges, PERI provided an integrated solution combining advanced technology, modular construction techniques and close on-site collaboration. The PERI UP Modular Scaffold offered the necessary adaptability for suspended structures and facilitated continuous, gap-free working platforms while maintaining high safety standards. With the aid of SRU Steel Walers and kicker brace systems, the scaffolding could be suspended from both steel and reinforced concrete structures without the need for drilling or welding. Detailed 3D planning facilitated precise coordination, minimising the need for on-site adjustments and preventing disruptions during assembly. PERI also provided comprehensive on-site support and training to ensure safe and efficient assembly. With around 3,400 tons of PERI material delivered – corresponding to approximately 100,000 m² of working platforms and around 50,000 m³ of modular scaffolding – a steady and reliable supply of materials and construction progress was maintained throughout the entire construction phase.

Technical collaboration delivers sustainable results

The close collaboration between COIMEC and PERI ensured that the project ran smoothly – from the planning and logistics stages right through to assembly. By combining engineering expertise, modular system design and digital planning methods, the project team was able to meet the complex requirements both safely and efficiently. The outcome is a complex industrial project that not only meets the highest safety standards but also makes a significant contribution to the sustainable expansion of European biofuel production.