Our Pre-Fabrication Department is at the heart of designing and developing innovative components and solutions which are embedded within decarbonisation projects we’re delivering across the UK. Responsible for the off-site prefabrication of energy centre pipework, skids, containerised plantrooms, and support frames, the team ensures seamless integration with our on-site installation team.
The department is headed up by Pre-Fabrication & Installations Manager, Lee Brindle, who has worked at Vital Energi for the last 12 and a half years. We caught up with him to find out what makes the team unique, the innovative solutions they’ve created, the advantages of having an in-house Prefab team, and more.
Tell us a bit about the people in your team…
The team is 26 strong, and is made up of pipefitters, welders, and coded welders, who hold official certification proving they can perform welding to specific industry standards and procedures. We also have 7 apprentices, who are on Vital’s bespoke net zero apprenticeship programme.
What are the biggest projects you’ve worked on?
Some of our biggest projects include Drakelow, Muntons Biomass Project, Simpsons Malt, Liverpool Waters, plus a whole lot more. Our work at Muntons included large sections of the biomass boiler system, pipework, and plant room components being manufactured at our prefabrication facility rather than on Muntons’ site to speed up efficiency and minimise disruption.
What is your most innovative solution?
The Balnagask Prefabricated Plantroom for the Torry Heat Network Project. This was a purpose-built enclosure which was fully fitted out mechanically, and we also had a specialist in to complete the electrical installations, power, lighting etc. Once completed and pre-commissioned, an escorted vehicle took it all the way to site in Aberdeen. It was then dropped into position on its pre-formed concrete base and connected to the district heating network.
What are the main advantages of an in-house prefab team?
The main advantages of having an in-house prefabrication team are greater control over the process, increased efficiency and speed, enhanced quality, and better cost management. By keeping the manufacturing process internal, a company can streamline production and improve project outcomes.
How do you collaborate with other departments across the business?
We collaborate with teams across the business such as Procurement, Design, and Commercial. We work closely with our Design teams as they act like architects creating detailed plans and equipment schedules, while the Pre-Fab team are the builders who turn those plans into physical equipment.
What makes the team unique?
Flexibility! Our team can adapt quickly to changing priorities and we all work proactively to meet our clients’ expectations
What advice do you have for someone who wants a career in prefabrication?
Since prefabrication takes place in a factory setting, the work environment is controlled, but it still requires the discipline and technical knowledge of on site environments. Those wishing to begin a career in prefabrication would be enrolled on the same courses as those working on site, such as their heating and ventilation qualification, therefore the skills are transferable. We actively employ apprentices, which is the best route as they can gain hands on experience, while learning the theory side of things at college.
