To meet the environmental, structural, and safety requirements of the Al Jubail refinery project, the engineering team developed a reinforced triple scissor maintenance platform specifically designed for long-term outdoor operation in petrochemical environments. The system was engineered with a strong focus on structural stability, operator safety, and corrosion resistance to support continuous industrial use under extreme desert conditions.
Reinforced Triple Scissor Structure
The platform utilizes a heavy-duty triple scissor lifting structure manufactured from high-strength structural steel to provide the vertical travel required for heat exchanger and vessel maintenance. To improve platform stability at full elevation, the scissor assembly was widened and reinforced compared to conventional industrial models, helping reduce lateral movement during elevated operation.
The base frame adopts a reinforced box-structure design anchored to a concrete foundation using high-strength chemical anchor systems. This configuration improves resistance to wind loads and enhances overall operational stability during outdoor maintenance work.
Integrated Access Staircase and Protective Canopy
To improve personnel access and daily maintenance efficiency, the platform was equipped with an integrated staircase system instead of conventional vertical ladders. The staircase mechanism maintains a consistent walking angle throughout platform travel, allowing technicians to move safely between levels while carrying inspection tools and maintenance equipment.
An overhead steel canopy was also integrated into the platform structure to provide protection from direct sunlight during daytime operation. This design helps reduce heat exposure for operators and protects sensitive inspection and calibration equipment used during refinery maintenance procedures.
Explosion-Proof Electrical Configuration
Because the platform operates within a hazardous refinery environment, the electrical and hydraulic systems were configured to meet explosion-proof operational requirements for Zone 2 classified areas. The system includes explosion-proof electrical components, sealed control assemblies, and outdoor-rated protection systems suitable for petrochemical applications.
To improve operational safety and long-term reliability, the hydraulic and mechanical systems were also optimized for continuous outdoor use in high-temperature industrial environments.
Offshore-Grade Corrosion Protection
To withstand salt-laden air, humidity, and refinery-related chemical exposure, the entire steel structure received a heavy-duty anti-corrosion treatment system designed for offshore and petrochemical environments.
The surface preparation and coating process included abrasive blasting, epoxy-based corrosion protection layers, and a UV-resistant industrial topcoat to improve long-term durability under harsh outdoor operating conditions.
