Hemiko – A Faster Route to Commissioning for Worthing Heat Network

More than 4km of large-diameter pipework cleaned in just four operational days, supporting the chemical-free commissioning of a new low-carbon heat network.

Hemiko required a fast and effective way to prepare newly installed pipework for commissioning as part of its Worthing Heat Network project. Conventional flushing can take several weeks and may involve chemical treatments, while larger mains can also require significant pumping capacity and energy use.

Ice Pigging was selected both to meet the project’s tight programme and to support Hemiko’s move towards chemical-free network commissioning. The work was completed in two phases, with each phase requiring only two operational days. Across the programme, SUEZ completed eight Ice Pigging runs covering 4,252 metres of pipework ranging from DN50 to DN250.

The programme delivered significant improvements in water quality across both shorter and longer sections of the network, helping prepare the system for commissioning without chemicals and with zero safety incidents. Hemiko Senior Construction Manager Robert Hughes highlighted the significant time saving compared with conventional flushing and said he would recommend the approach to other district heating companies.