Mechanical 3d reverse engineering: securing a steam transformer replacement

Meeting technical challenges within a Nuclear Power Plant (CNPE) requires absolute precision and rigorous preparation. To secure the complex handling operations of a steam transformer in Nogent-sur-Seine, IMAG'ING deployed its advanced 3D scanning and precision engineering solutions. Discover how custom 3D modeling allows operators to anticipate operational risks before step-one of onsite assembly.

Advanced dimensional engineering to prevent industrial hazards


Replacing a 25-ton steam transformer at a height of 30 meters presents extreme safety and structural access constraints. Working alongside EDF and Altrad Endel, our technical teams digitized the entire engine room intervention zone to establish a highly reliable site layout.

Building this highly accurate digital twin makes it possible to identify potential spatial interferences with nearby structures early in the project timeline. This preventive strategy is essential to validate tight heavy-lifting paths and eradicate operational hazards during the live lifting phase

Leveraging mechanical 3d reverse engineering for heavy-lifting simulation


Based on the high-density point cloud data, our engineering office completed a thorough study combining environment reconstruction and intervention zone modeling. This comprehensive mechanical 3d reverse engineering workflow provided the baseline required to simulate the entire handling kinematics of the 25-ton component.

Dessins architecturaux en élévation et en coupe avec annotations, dimensions et détails sur fond blanc
Structure filaire architecturale en noir et blanc d'un grand bâtiment

Moving past basic simulation, our specialized mechanical 3d reverse engineering expertise allowed us to define clear operating procedures and dimension custom lifting tools through finite element calculation notes. The resulting "approved for construction" blueprints provided prefabrication workshops and onsite teams with flawless reference data to build the 30-ton shoring tower needed for the project.


Key figures of this nuclear environment intervention

  • A comprehensive engineering layout representing 1300 hours of design work.
  • Secured handling of a 25-ton steam transformer at a height of 30 meters.
  • Calculation and engineering design for a structural 30-ton shoring tower.