I'm a little bit late to the party on this one with demolition work having now begun, but I've finally managed to attempt an old school Coal Fired Power Station which I'm well pleased about! Most of the others have been razed to the ground before I've had the chance to even consider trying them.
I did recce this back in 2022 with a mate, but still being quite new to the hobby, I very much lacked any bollocks and wouldn't touch anything with Secca on it... Especially when Secca comes out and shadows you on the public footpath in a 4x4, that was a hard pass from me... How times change 😂
The History
Aberthaw Power Station is located on the south coast of Wales. The original facility, Aberthaw A, was completed in 1966 and was considered the most advanced power station of its time. This station was decommissioned in 1995 and subsequently demolished by 1997.
A second facility, Aberthaw B, was commissioned in 1971, designed specifically to burn low-volatile Welsh coal. It operated until March 2020, when it was closed due to increasingly stringent environmental regulations and economic factors. During its operation, Aberthaw B produced significant emissions, which eventually led to the installation of Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) technology in 2008 to meet EU environmental standards.
However, the plant continued to face challenges, particularly due to its high emissions of nitrogen oxides, which led the European Commission to pursue legal action against the UK government. Despite efforts to adapt, the station was downgraded in 2017 before its final closure.
Aberthaw A
Aberthaw A Power Station, which opened in 1966, was considered one of the most advanced coal fired plants of its time. This status stemmed primarily from its cutting edge efficiency and environmental control systems, which were innovative for the era.
One key advanced feature of Aberthaw A was its ability to burn a wider range of coal types, particularly the low-volatile, high-ash Welsh coal. This was achieved through its specially designed boilers and combustion technology, which allowed the plant to utilize local coal resources more effectively. Additionally, Aberthaw A incorporated modern control systems that optimized the combustion process, improving both efficiency and emissions performance compared to older coal plants.
Another advanced aspect was its infrastructure. The station was equipped with a substantial cooling system that used water from the nearby Bristol Channel. The plant's caisson (a watertight structure for cooling) was constructed offshore in 1958, demonstrating an engineering feat that supported the cooling needs of the station.
These technological advancements made Aberthaw A a model for future coal fired power stations, particularly in its ability to balance fuel flexibility with environmental considerations for that time.
Aberthaw B
Aberthaw B Power Station was a more modern and powerful installation compared to its predecessor. It began operation in 1971 and was designed to burn low-volatile coal, specifically Welsh coal from opencast mines. This required specialised boiler designs to accommodate the challenging fuel type.
The station's capacity was formidable, with three main units each capable of generating 575 MW, bringing the total installed capacity to around 1,725 MW. The design of the plant featured a subcritical steam cycle, meaning that the boilers operated at pressures below the critical point of water, optimising the combustion process for the local coal.
Aberthaw B faced environmental challenges throughout its operation due to emissions, especially nitrogen oxides. However, it was retrofitted in 2008 with Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) technology, which allowed the plant to meet new European environmental standards by reducing sulphur dioxide emissions by up to 90%.
The plant also played a part in research on carbon capture technology, with a trial Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) project announced in 2009. This initiative aimed to explore methods to reduce carbon emissions from coal-fired plants by capturing and storing CO2.
Cooling System
The absence of large cooling towers at Aberthaw Power Station is explained by its use of a direct seawater cooling system. In a typical coal-fired plant, large cooling towers are required when inland water sources (such as rivers or lakes) are used in a recirculating cooling system. These towers cool the water by evaporating it before it is reused or returned to the source.
However, at Aberthaw, the proximity to the Bristol Channel allowed the plant to use seawater as part of a "once-through" cooling system. In this design, water from the sea is drawn into the plant, used to cool steam in the condensers, and then discharged back into the channel after passing through the system. This eliminates the need for large cooling towers since the seawater naturally absorbs the heat and is carried away by the tidal currents.
The design not only saved space but also reduced the visual impact on the landscape, as the large, iconic towers were unnecessary. Instead, the plant relied on its offshore intake system and discharge points to handle cooling.
The system was crucial for cooling the steam turbines at both Aberthaw A and B. The intake structure, known as a caisson, was constructed in 1958 and placed in the Bristol Channel, which provided a reliable and ample supply of cold water.
The caisson is a watertight structure designed to draw in large volumes of seawater. This water was pumped into the plant, circulated through the cooling systems, and then returned to the sea. The seawater helped cool the steam after it had passed through the turbines, condensing it back into water to be reused in the boiler system. This closed-loop system increased efficiency while ensuring the plant could meet its cooling requirements without relying on inland water sources.
One of the challenges of using seawater was managing the impact of salt and marine debris on the cooling system. The intake structure was designed to minimize these issues by incorporating filters and screens to prevent blockages and damage to the equipment. Additionally, its offshore location helped reduce the intake of silt and other materials that might otherwise accumulate in shallower waters.
The caisson also required regular maintenance due to the corrosive effects of seawater on its structure and components. Despite these challenges, the water intake system remained an essential part of the power station’s operation throughout its lifetime.
Turbine Systems
Each of the three main 575 MW generating units at Aberthaw B included a large steam turbine-generator set. These sets had three stages; high pressure, intermediate pressure, and low pressure turbines which were driven by steam produced in the plant’s boilers. The mechanical energy from these turbines was converted into electrical energy by the generator, which relied on an electromagnetic process to produce power.
To maintain the magnetic field in the generator, an exciter system was used. The exciter provides the direct current (DC) required to generate the magnetic field in the rotor of the generator. There are different types of exciters, but in older power stations like Aberthaw B, the most common were the rotating exciters and static exciters.
1. Rotating Exciters: These are physically connected to the main turbine-generator shaft. As the turbine spins the generator, it also spins the exciter, which generates a small DC current that is used to energize the magnetic field in the generator.
2. Static Exciters: These use solid-state equipment such as rectifiers to convert AC power into DC power to feed the generator’s field coils. Aberthaw B likely employed these later in its operation, as they are more efficient and faster at controlling the field voltage.
Each turbine-generator set would have its own dedicated rectifiers and exciters. The rectifiers convert alternating current (AC) from the station's auxiliary supply into direct current (DC) for the generator's magnetic field. Controlling the magnetic field through the exciter allows for adjustments in the generator's output, ensuring stable voltage and frequency in the electricity supplied to the grid.
The turbine would be directly connected to the generator through a shaft. In most cases, the turbines (high-pressure, intermediate-pressure, and low-pressure) are housed in separate enclosures, typically next to or before the generator on the same axis.
How the System Works:
1. Turbine: The steam produced in the boilers is sent into the turbine at high pressure. The turbine spins as the steam passes through it, turning the blades. This mechanical energy is transferred via a shaft to the generator.
2. Generator: The spinning rotor in the generator (connected to the turbine) moves within a magnetic field, inducing an electric current in the stator. This is what generates the electricity.
3. Exciters and Rectifiers: The exciters provide DC current to the rotor to create the magnetic field necessary for electricity production. The rectifiers convert AC power to DC for the exciters.
Redevelopment Proposals
Aberthaw Power Station has been the subject of various redevelopment schemes since its closure in 2020.
1. Green Energy Hub
Wind and Solar Power: One of the major proposals involves transforming Aberthaw into a renewable energy hub. This would include the installation of onshore wind turbines and large-scale solar farms on the vast site. The proposal aims to leverage the location's proximity to the coast for harnessing wind power and make use of existing infrastructure to distribute clean energy.
Battery Storage Facilities: Another part of the green energy proposal is the installation of battery storage units, which would store energy generated from renewable sources like wind and solar for later use. This could help stabilize the grid during peak times.
2. Hydrogen Production Hub
Green Hydrogen: One of the most prominent proposals is to convert the site into a green hydrogen production facility. This involves using renewable energy sources to power the electrolysis process, splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen could then be used as a clean fuel source for industries, transportation, or heating.
3. Industrial and Business Park
Commercial Redevelopment: Another proposal looks at repurposing Aberthaw as a mixed-use industrial and business park. This would involve demolishing much of the existing infrastructure to make way for new industrial units, potentially attracting businesses focused on green technology, logistics, or light manufacturing.
4. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Facility
Carbon Capture: Some proposals suggest that Aberthaw could become a key site for carbon capture and storage. This involves capturing CO2 emissions from industrial processes or power generation and storing them underground or reusing them for other purposes. Aberthaw's coastal location is ideal for shipping captured carbon or possibly storing it in disused undersea reservoirs.
5. Tidal Energy Project
Tidal Power: Given its coastal location, Aberthaw has been considered as part of larger schemes to harness tidal energy in the Severn Estuary. While this would involve significant new infrastructure, the site could act as a base for operations or as a connection point for tidal power systems feeding energy into the grid.
6. Ecological Restoration and Public Space
Environmental Rehabilitation: There are also ideas around converting parts of the site into a nature reserve or public park, capitalizing on its coastal position to promote biodiversity and provide public access. This could be part of a long-term strategy to transition the site into a sustainable, low-impact area, supporting local tourism and ecological projects.
7. Nuclear Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
New Nuclear Power: Though not a primary proposal, there have been discussions in broader UK energy policy circles about siting small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) at former coal-fired power stations. Aberthaw could be considered for this in the future as part of the UK's nuclear strategy.
The Green Energy Hub appears to be the winning idea, with the Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) establishing a new company, CCR Energy Limited, to oversee demolition and remediation of the site in preparation for it's future delivery. Demolition began in late 2023.
The Explore
Explored with @Terminal Decline, it's safe to say this explore went completely to shit though. Having managed the long winded and difficult access, we unfortunately set off a sensor whilst looking for an open door, and Secca already had an inkling that something was up, as they were already out looking for us.
We ascended some stairs to hide and seek another access point, which involved negotiating some scaffolding blocking said stairs in the dark with as little torch use as possible, not at all sketchy. We reached the roof and unfortunately upset the masses of seagulls nesting up top. If Secca weren't sure where we were, they definitely knew now.
The access point we were going for was also sealed, so we set about looking for an alternative route that has been used previously. Unfortunately at this point Secca appeared on the levels below us, so we had to stay still until they moved on, which they didn't.
When they had moved away, we made our way to the highest walkway to wait them out as there was a roof preventing them from seeing us from below. Nice view of the chimney from here though, I reckon we were at nearly half it's height.
Unfortunately, they were pretty switched on and knew we were nearby, keeping us cornered up top. I was unfortunately caught short at this point courtesy of the maccies we had prior to attempting entry. Never thought I'd be shitting off a walkway 200ft in the air...
We settled in for a nap at this point, although the cold made that rather difficult. Secca were making a right racket as well, using a megaphone to coax us out, 'Guys, we know you are here, please leave the building' and setting off numerous alarms as they were walking around.
Wasn't really watching the time, but probably a good couple of hours later, we started to head down carefully. Secca appeared to have decided to stop using their torches, we saw one of them open a gate below us, so presumably they were trying to conceal themselves to catch us, which they didn't! We found the route we were seeking and an open door and we were in!
Started looking for somewhere to bed down properly for the night, but a lot of doors had been locked which made options very limited. We ended up in the control room which was surprisingly unlocked and decided that would do considering the situation.
My other companion wandered off and found the medical room attached to the union office which contained a bed, he bedded down there for the night. He was very lucky not to get caught, Secca apparently tried opening the door to the room, but he had blocked it with some metal which they didn't realise.
Tried again to nap but was unsuccessful, I think I managed about 45 minutes. I got up at 5am as planned, had a monster and some breakfast, then started taking photos in the appalling early dawn light. I'm glad I didn't wait any longer for better light, that's for sure...
Anyway! Control room first! Mediocre compared to the others I've seen photos off, but it'll do!
Control Panel -
Frequency -
System Status -
Gauge Clusters -
Synchroscope -
Start-up Procedure -
Emergency Controls -
Indicators -
Operator Comfort -
Emergency Test Procedure -
Cleanliness -
ATEX -
Headed downstairs to the relay room below the control room. It's very samey so didn't grab many photos, it goes around in a circle with relays for all the units, numbered from 1-9.
Relay Room -
Interlocks -
Metering Panel -
Telephone -
Crept outside into the Turbine Hall, treading very carefully in case Secca were about.
I didn't venture very far as I was on my own, would have been unwise in the circumstances, so only really focused around the turbine immediately in front of the control room. Shit light here and didn't use a torch, so apologies for the meh photos. Sleep deprivation certainly didn't help either.
Exciter -
Turbine Assembly -
Generator -
Rectifiers -
Pipework -
Moved on down one of the staircases to the Hydrogen Dryer control machinery, which consists of tanks, pumps etc, with a few gauges, which was nice. No idea what I was looking at though 😂
Emergency Degassing -
Gauge -
Pressure Gauge -
Made my way back to the control room to put my camera back with my stuff. This would turn out to be a mistake, I could have grabbed a few more quick shots if I had kept it on me and continued wandering around.
I decided to look for my companion as it was daylight, and we needed to stick together to reduce the Secca risk. Wandered along the level, passing a couple more turbines and checking the areas we had been to a few hours before, but I had no luck finding him, so went back to wake TD.
We started to head the other way to what I had just checked, grabbing a few shots as we went.
Gantry Crane SWL -
At this point we heard Secca approaching as we were on the stairs up the crane. We didn't have time to hide or move higher so opted with just ducking. Initially Secca didn't spot us, it took a few seconds, but the game was up!
Lots of whingeing about breaking in, asbestos, risk of injury etc, with the main guy filming the entire thing. Spent 20 minutes trying to summon my other companion as they knew there were three of us, and they flat out wouldn't let us move without him coming out, which was really rather odd.
He finally materialised and we were escorted to a door with the police waiting. They were decent though which is always helpful. Took details and gave us a lift back to the car, happy days, because it was a long ass walk.
Thanks for looking!
I did recce this back in 2022 with a mate, but still being quite new to the hobby, I very much lacked any bollocks and wouldn't touch anything with Secca on it... Especially when Secca comes out and shadows you on the public footpath in a 4x4, that was a hard pass from me... How times change 😂
The History
Aberthaw Power Station is located on the south coast of Wales. The original facility, Aberthaw A, was completed in 1966 and was considered the most advanced power station of its time. This station was decommissioned in 1995 and subsequently demolished by 1997.
A second facility, Aberthaw B, was commissioned in 1971, designed specifically to burn low-volatile Welsh coal. It operated until March 2020, when it was closed due to increasingly stringent environmental regulations and economic factors. During its operation, Aberthaw B produced significant emissions, which eventually led to the installation of Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) technology in 2008 to meet EU environmental standards.
However, the plant continued to face challenges, particularly due to its high emissions of nitrogen oxides, which led the European Commission to pursue legal action against the UK government. Despite efforts to adapt, the station was downgraded in 2017 before its final closure.
Aberthaw A
Aberthaw A Power Station, which opened in 1966, was considered one of the most advanced coal fired plants of its time. This status stemmed primarily from its cutting edge efficiency and environmental control systems, which were innovative for the era.
One key advanced feature of Aberthaw A was its ability to burn a wider range of coal types, particularly the low-volatile, high-ash Welsh coal. This was achieved through its specially designed boilers and combustion technology, which allowed the plant to utilize local coal resources more effectively. Additionally, Aberthaw A incorporated modern control systems that optimized the combustion process, improving both efficiency and emissions performance compared to older coal plants.
Another advanced aspect was its infrastructure. The station was equipped with a substantial cooling system that used water from the nearby Bristol Channel. The plant's caisson (a watertight structure for cooling) was constructed offshore in 1958, demonstrating an engineering feat that supported the cooling needs of the station.
These technological advancements made Aberthaw A a model for future coal fired power stations, particularly in its ability to balance fuel flexibility with environmental considerations for that time.
Aberthaw B
Aberthaw B Power Station was a more modern and powerful installation compared to its predecessor. It began operation in 1971 and was designed to burn low-volatile coal, specifically Welsh coal from opencast mines. This required specialised boiler designs to accommodate the challenging fuel type.
The station's capacity was formidable, with three main units each capable of generating 575 MW, bringing the total installed capacity to around 1,725 MW. The design of the plant featured a subcritical steam cycle, meaning that the boilers operated at pressures below the critical point of water, optimising the combustion process for the local coal.
Aberthaw B faced environmental challenges throughout its operation due to emissions, especially nitrogen oxides. However, it was retrofitted in 2008 with Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) technology, which allowed the plant to meet new European environmental standards by reducing sulphur dioxide emissions by up to 90%.
The plant also played a part in research on carbon capture technology, with a trial Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) project announced in 2009. This initiative aimed to explore methods to reduce carbon emissions from coal-fired plants by capturing and storing CO2.
Cooling System
The absence of large cooling towers at Aberthaw Power Station is explained by its use of a direct seawater cooling system. In a typical coal-fired plant, large cooling towers are required when inland water sources (such as rivers or lakes) are used in a recirculating cooling system. These towers cool the water by evaporating it before it is reused or returned to the source.
However, at Aberthaw, the proximity to the Bristol Channel allowed the plant to use seawater as part of a "once-through" cooling system. In this design, water from the sea is drawn into the plant, used to cool steam in the condensers, and then discharged back into the channel after passing through the system. This eliminates the need for large cooling towers since the seawater naturally absorbs the heat and is carried away by the tidal currents.
The design not only saved space but also reduced the visual impact on the landscape, as the large, iconic towers were unnecessary. Instead, the plant relied on its offshore intake system and discharge points to handle cooling.
The system was crucial for cooling the steam turbines at both Aberthaw A and B. The intake structure, known as a caisson, was constructed in 1958 and placed in the Bristol Channel, which provided a reliable and ample supply of cold water.
The caisson is a watertight structure designed to draw in large volumes of seawater. This water was pumped into the plant, circulated through the cooling systems, and then returned to the sea. The seawater helped cool the steam after it had passed through the turbines, condensing it back into water to be reused in the boiler system. This closed-loop system increased efficiency while ensuring the plant could meet its cooling requirements without relying on inland water sources.
One of the challenges of using seawater was managing the impact of salt and marine debris on the cooling system. The intake structure was designed to minimize these issues by incorporating filters and screens to prevent blockages and damage to the equipment. Additionally, its offshore location helped reduce the intake of silt and other materials that might otherwise accumulate in shallower waters.
The caisson also required regular maintenance due to the corrosive effects of seawater on its structure and components. Despite these challenges, the water intake system remained an essential part of the power station’s operation throughout its lifetime.
Turbine Systems
Each of the three main 575 MW generating units at Aberthaw B included a large steam turbine-generator set. These sets had three stages; high pressure, intermediate pressure, and low pressure turbines which were driven by steam produced in the plant’s boilers. The mechanical energy from these turbines was converted into electrical energy by the generator, which relied on an electromagnetic process to produce power.
To maintain the magnetic field in the generator, an exciter system was used. The exciter provides the direct current (DC) required to generate the magnetic field in the rotor of the generator. There are different types of exciters, but in older power stations like Aberthaw B, the most common were the rotating exciters and static exciters.
1. Rotating Exciters: These are physically connected to the main turbine-generator shaft. As the turbine spins the generator, it also spins the exciter, which generates a small DC current that is used to energize the magnetic field in the generator.
2. Static Exciters: These use solid-state equipment such as rectifiers to convert AC power into DC power to feed the generator’s field coils. Aberthaw B likely employed these later in its operation, as they are more efficient and faster at controlling the field voltage.
Each turbine-generator set would have its own dedicated rectifiers and exciters. The rectifiers convert alternating current (AC) from the station's auxiliary supply into direct current (DC) for the generator's magnetic field. Controlling the magnetic field through the exciter allows for adjustments in the generator's output, ensuring stable voltage and frequency in the electricity supplied to the grid.
The turbine would be directly connected to the generator through a shaft. In most cases, the turbines (high-pressure, intermediate-pressure, and low-pressure) are housed in separate enclosures, typically next to or before the generator on the same axis.
How the System Works:
1. Turbine: The steam produced in the boilers is sent into the turbine at high pressure. The turbine spins as the steam passes through it, turning the blades. This mechanical energy is transferred via a shaft to the generator.
2. Generator: The spinning rotor in the generator (connected to the turbine) moves within a magnetic field, inducing an electric current in the stator. This is what generates the electricity.
3. Exciters and Rectifiers: The exciters provide DC current to the rotor to create the magnetic field necessary for electricity production. The rectifiers convert AC power to DC for the exciters.
Redevelopment Proposals
Aberthaw Power Station has been the subject of various redevelopment schemes since its closure in 2020.
1. Green Energy Hub
Wind and Solar Power: One of the major proposals involves transforming Aberthaw into a renewable energy hub. This would include the installation of onshore wind turbines and large-scale solar farms on the vast site. The proposal aims to leverage the location's proximity to the coast for harnessing wind power and make use of existing infrastructure to distribute clean energy.
Battery Storage Facilities: Another part of the green energy proposal is the installation of battery storage units, which would store energy generated from renewable sources like wind and solar for later use. This could help stabilize the grid during peak times.
2. Hydrogen Production Hub
Green Hydrogen: One of the most prominent proposals is to convert the site into a green hydrogen production facility. This involves using renewable energy sources to power the electrolysis process, splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen could then be used as a clean fuel source for industries, transportation, or heating.
3. Industrial and Business Park
Commercial Redevelopment: Another proposal looks at repurposing Aberthaw as a mixed-use industrial and business park. This would involve demolishing much of the existing infrastructure to make way for new industrial units, potentially attracting businesses focused on green technology, logistics, or light manufacturing.
4. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Facility
Carbon Capture: Some proposals suggest that Aberthaw could become a key site for carbon capture and storage. This involves capturing CO2 emissions from industrial processes or power generation and storing them underground or reusing them for other purposes. Aberthaw's coastal location is ideal for shipping captured carbon or possibly storing it in disused undersea reservoirs.
5. Tidal Energy Project
Tidal Power: Given its coastal location, Aberthaw has been considered as part of larger schemes to harness tidal energy in the Severn Estuary. While this would involve significant new infrastructure, the site could act as a base for operations or as a connection point for tidal power systems feeding energy into the grid.
6. Ecological Restoration and Public Space
Environmental Rehabilitation: There are also ideas around converting parts of the site into a nature reserve or public park, capitalizing on its coastal position to promote biodiversity and provide public access. This could be part of a long-term strategy to transition the site into a sustainable, low-impact area, supporting local tourism and ecological projects.
7. Nuclear Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
New Nuclear Power: Though not a primary proposal, there have been discussions in broader UK energy policy circles about siting small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) at former coal-fired power stations. Aberthaw could be considered for this in the future as part of the UK's nuclear strategy.
The Green Energy Hub appears to be the winning idea, with the Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) establishing a new company, CCR Energy Limited, to oversee demolition and remediation of the site in preparation for it's future delivery. Demolition began in late 2023.
The Explore
Explored with @Terminal Decline, it's safe to say this explore went completely to shit though. Having managed the long winded and difficult access, we unfortunately set off a sensor whilst looking for an open door, and Secca already had an inkling that something was up, as they were already out looking for us.
We ascended some stairs to hide and seek another access point, which involved negotiating some scaffolding blocking said stairs in the dark with as little torch use as possible, not at all sketchy. We reached the roof and unfortunately upset the masses of seagulls nesting up top. If Secca weren't sure where we were, they definitely knew now.
The access point we were going for was also sealed, so we set about looking for an alternative route that has been used previously. Unfortunately at this point Secca appeared on the levels below us, so we had to stay still until they moved on, which they didn't.
When they had moved away, we made our way to the highest walkway to wait them out as there was a roof preventing them from seeing us from below. Nice view of the chimney from here though, I reckon we were at nearly half it's height.
Unfortunately, they were pretty switched on and knew we were nearby, keeping us cornered up top. I was unfortunately caught short at this point courtesy of the maccies we had prior to attempting entry. Never thought I'd be shitting off a walkway 200ft in the air...
We settled in for a nap at this point, although the cold made that rather difficult. Secca were making a right racket as well, using a megaphone to coax us out, 'Guys, we know you are here, please leave the building' and setting off numerous alarms as they were walking around.
Wasn't really watching the time, but probably a good couple of hours later, we started to head down carefully. Secca appeared to have decided to stop using their torches, we saw one of them open a gate below us, so presumably they were trying to conceal themselves to catch us, which they didn't! We found the route we were seeking and an open door and we were in!
Started looking for somewhere to bed down properly for the night, but a lot of doors had been locked which made options very limited. We ended up in the control room which was surprisingly unlocked and decided that would do considering the situation.
My other companion wandered off and found the medical room attached to the union office which contained a bed, he bedded down there for the night. He was very lucky not to get caught, Secca apparently tried opening the door to the room, but he had blocked it with some metal which they didn't realise.
Tried again to nap but was unsuccessful, I think I managed about 45 minutes. I got up at 5am as planned, had a monster and some breakfast, then started taking photos in the appalling early dawn light. I'm glad I didn't wait any longer for better light, that's for sure...
Anyway! Control room first! Mediocre compared to the others I've seen photos off, but it'll do!
Control Panel -
Synchroscope -
Start-up Procedure -
Emergency Controls -
Indicators -
Operator Comfort -
Emergency Test Procedure -
Cleanliness -
ATEX -
Headed downstairs to the relay room below the control room. It's very samey so didn't grab many photos, it goes around in a circle with relays for all the units, numbered from 1-9.
Relay Room -
Telephone -
Crept outside into the Turbine Hall, treading very carefully in case Secca were about.
I didn't venture very far as I was on my own, would have been unwise in the circumstances, so only really focused around the turbine immediately in front of the control room. Shit light here and didn't use a torch, so apologies for the meh photos. Sleep deprivation certainly didn't help either.
Exciter -
Turbine Assembly -
Generator -
Rectifiers -
Pipework -
Moved on down one of the staircases to the Hydrogen Dryer control machinery, which consists of tanks, pumps etc, with a few gauges, which was nice. No idea what I was looking at though 😂
Gauge -
Pressure Gauge -
Made my way back to the control room to put my camera back with my stuff. This would turn out to be a mistake, I could have grabbed a few more quick shots if I had kept it on me and continued wandering around.
I decided to look for my companion as it was daylight, and we needed to stick together to reduce the Secca risk. Wandered along the level, passing a couple more turbines and checking the areas we had been to a few hours before, but I had no luck finding him, so went back to wake TD.
We started to head the other way to what I had just checked, grabbing a few shots as we went.
Gantry Crane SWL -
At this point we heard Secca approaching as we were on the stairs up the crane. We didn't have time to hide or move higher so opted with just ducking. Initially Secca didn't spot us, it took a few seconds, but the game was up!
Lots of whingeing about breaking in, asbestos, risk of injury etc, with the main guy filming the entire thing. Spent 20 minutes trying to summon my other companion as they knew there were three of us, and they flat out wouldn't let us move without him coming out, which was really rather odd.
He finally materialised and we were escorted to a door with the police waiting. They were decent though which is always helpful. Took details and gave us a lift back to the car, happy days, because it was a long ass walk.
Thanks for looking!
