Sarens has taken on a pivotal role in Shell’s Polaris CCS project at Scotford, providing essential heavy transport and lifting services for its groundbreaking carbon capture and storage (CCS) infrastructure. The initiative underscores efforts to reduce emissions and aligns with the global shift toward cleaner technologies.
Starting in October 2024, the project saw the intricate transport and installation of three critical components: an Amine Absorber, an Amine Stripper, and a Quench Tower. Sarens secured the contract, leveraging its reputation for precise execution and past successful collaborations with Shell.
Preparation was meticulous, addressing complex logistical hurdles such as de-energizing power lines, removing railway barriers, and ensuring bridge load capacities were sufficient. One notable challenge was removing and re-lifting overhead power lines, which required a 45-day lead time and intricate planning.
For transportation, Sarens deployed two Kamag K25 platform trailers with bolsters, totaling 56 axle lines. These trailers were selected for their load-bearing strength and adaptability to public roads. The transport of the heaviest component—an 866,000-pound behemoth—was carried out flawlessly over eight hours. The route tested the team’s expertise, involving tight corners, railway crossings, and overhead obstructions, all managed in compliance with Alberta’s transport regulations.
The operation’s success hinged on the skills of an experienced eight-person crew, led by Transport Manager Phil Wiebe and Project Manager Paul Betts, with critical support from Sarens’ engineering team. Close coordination with Alberta Transportation ensured every detail was meticulously addressed, from confined space navigation to weight distribution.
Lifting operations were no less impressive. Over eight days, the Sarens team erected three massive structures, including the Amine Absorber, which now stands as Scotford’s tallest structure at nearly 235 feet. Utilizing a CC6800 crane with a CC2800 as a tail crane, the lifts demanded precision and expertise. On-site transport of the Amine Stripper and Quench Tower relied on 24 lines of K24 SPMTs, ensuring smooth and safe placement under harsh weather conditions.
The success of this project reflects Sarens’ unparalleled expertise in heavy haulage and installation. By completing these critical tasks efficiently and safely, Sarens not only supports Shell’s ambitious environmental goals but also contributes to advancing local infrastructure. This collaboration highlights the vital role logistics and transport play in driving sustainability projects forward.
