Jernbro helps the Swedish Maritime Administration break the ice

− Jernbro is a specialist in pipework and welding of boilers, which we use in connection with pipe replacements on boilers and boiler repairs. They also carry out pipework on district heating systems, weld leaking pipes and manufacture new pipes. These are complicated jobs with large pipes that are often built on site. Furthermore, all jobs are different, says Mikael Fällgren, Technical Manager on the icebreaker Frej, Swedish Maritime Administration.

− On behalf of the icebreakers, our main task is pipe maintenance, but we also perform mechanical and steel work. This year we have mainly carried out work on the icebreaker Frej and equipment in the harbour. Previously, we have repaired the hot water boiler and fire pipe system as well as other pipe work on the icebreaker Atle, says Mikael Carlsten, Group Manager Pipe and Mechanics at Jernbro in Luleå.

Pipe connection for heat exchanger

Mikael Carlsten continues:
− The work involves renovations of piping systems and is very varied. It includes everything from fire lines and fuel lines to heat exchanger systems, rebuilding ballast tanks and installing platforms, as well as manufacturing hatches for the ballast tank and steps for passages. In addition, we have also renovated lifting equipment and rebuilt the jib crane in their workshop.

Mikael Fällgren talks about the collaboration:
− Jernbro has helped us with plumbing work for many years and that means I know the staff well. I appreciate their service and safety focus and that they are reliable and accommodating. We have built a long-term collaboration that we are very satisfied with.

Boiler renovation

Since the icebreaker season is January to April, it is in the period May to December that Jernbro works intensively with icebreaker maintenance. During the season itself, maintenance is only carried out when necessary when the icebreakers come to Luleå for personnel changes. There are 5 icebreakers that operate from the Swedish Maritime Administration in Luleå, but Jernbro mainly works with Frej, Atle and Ymer.

− We have a good working relationship with the Swedish Maritime Administration and enjoy helping them with maintenance. When there are tough winters, there is more work for us after the icebreaker season, so we hope for that, says Mikael Carlsten with a smile.