FMCG / Industrial Manufacturing

Project Potamoi – Ductile Iron Pipework Installation for Unilever UK

Location: Port Sunlight

The Problem

Unilever’s Port Sunlight facility required a new effluent discharge system to support their sustainability goals and reduce operational costs. The existing process pumped all site rainwater runoff to United Utilities’ wastewater treatment works, incurring significant trade effluent charges and adding strain to the utility’s system.

Unilever needed a durable, compliant pipework installation to enable direct discharge to the River Mersey under an existing EA permit — while meeting strict safety, quality, and operational standards.

Our Solution

T4 Engineering Group was engaged to deliver the mechanical installation for Project Potamoi.

Pipework Installation: Assembly, fabrication, and bolting of ductile iron pipework, valves, flowmeters, and flow switches in accordance with GHD’s detailed design.
Supports & Framework: Fabricated and installed bespoke pipe supports and frames, securing pipework onto plinths and outfall structures.
Collaboration: Coordinated closely with Unilever, GHD Consulting, suppliers, and civil contractors to ensure compliance, accuracy, and on-site problem solving.
Safety First: Comprehensive RAMS, confined space planning, and lifting operations under LOLER/PUWER. All work executed in line with CDM Regulations, Unilever’s HS&E cardinal rules, and site-specific requirements.

Results & Benefits

Cost Savings: Enabled Unilever to discharge effluent directly to the River Mersey, reducing trade effluent disposal costs.
Environmental Gain: Reduced strain on United Utilities’ wastewater treatment plant and improved local river water quality.
Reliability: Robust ductile iron system ensures long-term operational integrity.
On-Time Delivery: Installation completed within programme, safely and without disruption to Unilever’s production.

T4 Group -

The Outcome

The Potamoi project showcases T4 Engineering Group’s expertise in complex mechanical installations, collaboration on high-profile industrial sites, and delivering projects that balance safety, sustainability, and cost efficiency.