Halley VI

In a pioneering effort to support scientific research in the Antarctic, Surespan was entrusted with the task of providing essential access solutions for the Halley VI British Antarctic Research Station.

This £22 million project, a collaborative effort designed by Faber Maunsell and Hugh Broughton Architects and constructed by Morrison Construction, stands as a testament to innovative design and sustainability in one of the most extreme environments on Earth.

The station, comprised of seven interlinked modules equipped with hydraulic legs and skis, represents the world’s first fully re-locatable research facility. This design not only minimises environmental impact but also ensures the safety and well-being of its inhabitants, providing a stimulating environment that adapts to the annually rising snow levels by enabling re-location inland as required.

Central to the functionality and safety of this award-winning station, Surespan designed and manufactured a total of 27 HIAC Recessed Floor Hatches. These bespoke hatches, integral to the station’s infrastructure, provide both access and escape routes, underscoring the importance of reliability and safety in the harsh Antarctic conditions.

The supply included 19 double door recessed floor hatches, fire-rated for 30 minutes and measuring 46″ x 42″, three circular recessed floor doors with a 32″ diameter, four 30″ x 30″ lift-out fire-rated panels, and one 42″ x 42″ recessed floor door, also fire-rated for 30 minutes. Each hatch features radius corners—a departure from the conventional square design—enhancing both aesthetic appeal and safety.

Surespan’s commitment to delivering high-quality, bespoke solutions played a crucial role in the success of Halley VI, ensuring the research station’s operational integrity and safety. Through innovation and meticulous design, Surespan has contributed to the advancement of scientific research in the Antarctic, embodying the spirit of exploration and environmental stewardship.

South Clyde Energy Centre

Surespan supplied a bespoke hydraulically operated double-leaf access cover package for the South Clyde Energy Centre, a major Energy-from-Waste facility under construction in Glasgow.

Centenario Ratones Lithium Plant

Project snapshot Project: Centenario Ratones Lithium Production Plant Location: Salar Centenario Ratones, Department of Los Andes, Salta Province, Argentina (3,800m above sea level) Client: Eramine Sudamérica S.A. (subsidiary of Eramet Group, France / Tsingshan, China) Delivery model: Direct supply, Ex Works. Client arranged logistics to Argentina. Scope: 2no. SRHE/50/DL electrically operated double-leaf roof access hatches (5000 x 5500mm structural opening), with electrical control boxes, battery back-up, key switch controls, painted finish, removable lifting eyes, spare actuators, and 5 days supervisory installation attendance. The project The Centenario Ratones plant is one of the most significant lithium projects in South America. Operated by Eramine Sudamérica S.A. — a joint venture between French mining group Eramet (50.1%) and Chinese steelmaker Tsingshan (49.9%) — the plant uses advanced Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology to produce 24,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium carbonate per year from brine pumped from beneath the salt flat. Representing an investment
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