At Patrick Mechanical, teamwork isn’t just part of our culture, it’s how we deliver results that matter. The Glencore Smelter Acid Tank project put that to the test. With tight timelines, complex fabrication, and high-stakes execution during a critical shutdown, this project was anything but routine.
It’s a story worth sharing, not because it was easy, but because it shows exactly what sets Patrick Mechanical apart: precision, communication, and a team-first approach that gets things done right.
The Challenge
From day one, this project came with serious pressure:
- A tight budget and aggressive deadline
- Critical-path designation during Glencore’s plant shutdown
- High-risk tie-ins to active acid systems
There was zero room for error. But instead of backing down, our team leaned in.
How Patrick Mechanical Got It Done
Smart Planning, Early Wins
Out team took a proactive approach by flagging structural steel discrepancies before fabrication began. Their attention to detail saved valuable time and avoided rework, allowing for a flawless two-day installation. Glencore took notice.
Fast, Accurate Fabrication
The shop crew delivered top-tier fabricated components with speed and precision. Special thanks to Justin A. for catching bolt-hole issues early, ensuring everything fit on-site without delay.
Expert Welding and Pipefitting
Chris Hendry and Trevor James kept the flow going in the field, helping our welders stay ahead of schedule. Eric Desloges delivered standout work—successfully completing complex Saramet 35 welds (3″ to 20″ pipe) with 100% x-ray pass rates. His tie-ins to the existing acid lines were performed under pressure, and perfectly executed.
Strong Field Leadership
Our supervision managed the workforce with clarity and control, coordinating subcontractors, managing changing site conditions, and responding to scope changes without disrupting progress. His leadership kept everything moving, even when surprises came up.
The Results
We didn’t just meet the deadline, we beat it. Finishing early gave Glencore additional breathing room in their shutdown schedule and positioned Patrick Mechanical to step in on another urgent project immediately afterward.
This project was proof of what we do best:
- Plan proactively and solve problems before they happen
- Fabricate and install with unmatched accuracy
- Deliver under pressure without compromising quality
Celebrating Our Team
Every success in this project was a direct result of the people behind it, from the shop floor to the field. Our team’s commitment, problem-solving mindset, and work ethic earned Glencore’s trust and this result.
To our crew: thank you. Your effort, focus, and talent make Patrick Mechanical what it is, a trusted partner for complex, high-risk industrial projects.
Looking Ahead
The Glencore Smelter Acid Tank project is just one example of the challenges we’re built for. At Patrick Mechanical, we’re always ready for what’s next, projects that demand precision, coordination, and accountability from day one.
If you’re looking for a mechanical contractor with proven performance and a relentless commitment to doing the job right, we’re ready when you are.
