Fluor successfully addressed several unique challenges on this project. Complex hydro geological conditions at the site, for example, required innovative soil, pile and foundation design. Fluor used specialized cut-and-fill techniques, including high embankment construction in water-saturated areas. Piles were also designed and installed on soft weathered bedrock under artesian conditions.
Fluor's scope for the offsites and utilities included the cooling tower, plant and instrument air compression, three substations, two package boilers (30,000 pounds per hour at 100 psig), and raw material rail and unloading facilities. Additional building structures included the control room, laboratory, maintenance facilities and administrative building.
Due to the remote location, Fluor worked closely with the Union locals in Calgary and Edmonton (each located about 100 miles from the site) to hire building trades, with facilities provided.