+50% LPG storage capacity: expansion of gas infrastructure in French Polynesia with hot-dip galvanized walkway systems

Project number: E/6377/01
Location: Tahiti Island, French Polynesia

New LPG gas sphere on Tahiti Island – strategic energy infrastructure expansion

A new gas sphere is under construction on Tahiti Island, aiming to increase gas storage capacity by 50% in 2025. The new structure, which is more than twice the size of the existing one, will enhance supply management efficiency and significantly improve LPG storage safety.

Walkway systems for the energy plant industry – safe access in demanding industrial environments

The energy plant industry prioritizes the highest safety, efficiency, and precision standards, particularly when managing complex systems and processes involved in energy generation. Ensuring safe and reliable access to key equipment, including storage tanks, turbines, boilers, and other critical infrastructure, is essential for maintaining operational stability and adherence to stringent safety and regulatory requirements. TLC’s walkway systems provide a robust solution, offering secure and specialized access tailored to the demanding environment of the energy sector.

TLC’s contribution: hot-dip galvanized access systems for LPG facility

Due to growing energy demand and limited storage capacity, the investor required a durable, space-efficient access solution that could withstand the tropical climate of French Polynesia. TLC supplies an access system and steel helicoidal stairs for this investment, ensuring the safe operation of the new installation. The high-quality steel and anti-corrosion protection in the form of hot-dip galvanization guarantee the durability of the structure and resistance to demanding operating conditions.

The steel helicoidal stairs delivered by TLC reaches a total height of 23.7 meters, with intermediate platforms placed at regular intervals to facilitate safe access at every level. The structure includes 144 anti-slip grating steps, manufactured from S235/S355 steel and protected by hot-dip galvanizing in accordance with ISO 1461. The entire structure is designed for use in tropical marine environments, ensuring long-term durability and minimal maintenance in challenging conditions.

The system complies with ISO 14122-2 and -4 standards for permanent means of access, incorporating fixed landings, toe boards, and anti-slip grating. All structural joints—bolted and welded—were executed in line with EN 1090, providing full compliance with European execution standards for steel structures.

Cooperation with our client, international reference in boilermaking – structural solution for LPG tank access

As part of the project, TLC collaborated with our client, international reference in boilermaking, the company responsible for manufacturing the steel pylon (supporting shaft) of the LPG tank. In close coordination with the client, TLC designed a 23.7-meter-high steel helicoidal stairs integrated directly into the pylon structure, ensuring a seamless and secure access solution.

TLC delivered a system that included a hot-dip galvanized helicoidal stairs, a top access platform, connection modules, and custom support elements. The upper platform, measuring 2340 mm in length and 900 mm in usable width, is equipped with 150 mm-high kickplates and anti-slip grating (34×38/30×3). It is constructed from S235/S355 structural steel and protected with hot-dip galvanization in accordance with ISO 1461.
Our client provided and installed the pylon and a reinforced mounting ring (made of UPE profiles). The ring formed the structural interface connecting the staircase and platform to the tank body.

Thanks to the combined engineering expertise and technical capabilities of both companies, the project was executed with the highest precision.

Project details

• Project: E/6377/01
• Type of structure: steel helicoidal stairs, platform
• Anti-corrosion protection: hot-dip galvanization
• Project location: French Polynesia

Energy sector impact – increased LPG storage

This project plays a vital role in the development of French Polynesia’s energy infrastructure. Expanding LPG storage capacity will stabilize supply and enhance safety in the region. TLC’s involvement in this project reaffirms the company’s commitment to high standards and strategic infrastructure projects worldwide.

Looking for durable, regulation-compliant access systems for your industrial project?
Get in touch – we will help you find the best solution.