Vale canada limited
Copper Cliff, Ontario
Selective Demolition of the M Floor Roaster Flue
Project Overview
The Copper Cliff demolition at Vale’s Nickel Refinery was led by Delsan-AIM with a strong focus on safety and precision. The operation involved removing the M Floor Roaster Flue, which extended across four levels inside an active smelter. This large structure measured 24’-8” wide by 107’-6” long and weighed over 1.2 million pounds.
Site Challenges and Hazard Management in the Copper Cliff Demolition
This project presented several serious risks. For example, asbestos was found in tar-coated bricks and expansion joints. As a result, all masonry had to be treated as contaminated. In addition, our team worked around other hazardous substances such as lead, silica, flue dust, and heavy metals.
Custom Scaffolding and Containment Systems
To maintain safety at every level, Delsan-AIM built a specialized scaffolding system over five months. After that, the structure was wrapped in polyethylene tarping to support Type 3 asbestos abatement. Meanwhile, the system ensured that other refinery activities could continue safely.
Controlled Demolition and Waste Removal
We followed a strict demolition plan using certified gear and safety protocols. Workers wore full-face PAPRs and protective equipment at all times. Additionally, debris was double-bagged, cleaned, and moved via a freight elevator. Before cutting began, we sealed all exposed floors and safely rerouted utilities.
Steel Structure Dismantling and Final Removal
Once we cleared all hazardous materials, our team took down the enclosure and removed steel components. Crews used rigging, torch-cutting, and hoists to lower each piece carefully. Therefore, the work caused minimal disruption and followed all lift plan procedures exactly.
Project Completion and Environmental Performance
The Copper Cliff demolition shows Delsan-AIM’s commitment to safety, precision, and environmental care. Although we worked within an active refinery, we finished the job on time and without any disruptions or incidents.
To learn more about environmental standards in mining and demolition, visit
Vale’s Sustainability Commitment.
Project Details
DATE
May 2022 – December 2023
CLIENT
Vale Copper Cliff
PROJECT TYPE
Industrial
Project Services
- Abatement
- Asset Recovery
- Demolition
- Recycling
Project Details
DATE:
May 2022 – December 2023
CLIENT: Vale Copper Cliff
PROJECT TYPE: Industrial
Project Services:
• Abatement
• Asset Recovery
• Demolition
• Recycling
Selective Demolition of the M Floor Roaster Flue
Project Overview
The Copper Cliff demolition at Vale’s Nickel Refinery was led by Delsan-AIM with a strong focus on safety and precision. The operation involved removing the M Floor Roaster Flue, which extended across four levels inside an active smelter. This large structure measured 24’-8” wide by 107’-6” long and weighed over 1.2 million pounds.
Site Challenges and Hazard Management in the Copper Cliff Demolition
This project presented several serious risks. For example, asbestos was found in tar-coated bricks and expansion joints. As a result, all masonry had to be treated as contaminated. In addition, our team worked around other hazardous substances such as lead, silica, flue dust, and heavy metals.
Custom Scaffolding and Containment Systems
To maintain safety at every level, Delsan-AIM built a specialized scaffolding system over five months. After that, the structure was wrapped in polyethylene tarping to support Type 3 asbestos abatement. Meanwhile, the system ensured that other refinery activities could continue safely.
Controlled Demolition and Waste Removal
We followed a strict demolition plan using certified gear and safety protocols. Workers wore full-face PAPRs and protective equipment at all times. Additionally, debris was double-bagged, cleaned, and moved via a freight elevator. Before cutting began, we sealed all exposed floors and safely rerouted utilities.
Steel Structure Dismantling and Final Removal
Once we cleared all hazardous materials, our team took down the enclosure and removed steel components. Crews used rigging, torch-cutting, and hoists to lower each piece carefully. Therefore, the work caused minimal disruption and followed all lift plan procedures exactly.
Project Completion and Environmental Performance
The Copper Cliff demolition shows Delsan-AIM’s commitment to safety, precision, and environmental care. Although we worked within an active refinery, we finished the job on time and without any disruptions or incidents.
To learn more about environmental standards in mining and demolition, visit
Vale’s Sustainability Commitment.

















