ARA Electrical have been engaged by South32 Illawarra Metallurgical Coal to design, supply, and install a 66kV/11kV electrical supply and distribution network. The main purpose of this project is to provide additional ventilation capacity and communication infrastructure to support development of the mining operation.
The contract is scheduled to be completed by December 2024. The project site is approximately 35km North-West of Wollongong, 8km North-West of Appin, and 1.3km to the Southwest of the township of Menangle.
This package of works consisted of the following services:
- Engineering and Design
- Procurement
- Supply
- Installation
- Connection works
- Commissioning
- Project management of the high voltage and low voltage electrical supply and distribution infrastructure
The detailed deliverables are listed below:
- Design and supply of 66kV switchyard, including civil works
- Design and supply 11kV and LV switchrooms
- Design and supply 66kV ventilation fan electrical and OFC reticulation
- Design and supply network and controls equipment
- Testing and commissioning
The project involves constructing a downcast ventilation shaft (VS7), an upcast ventilation shaft (VS8), and installing associated surface extraction fans and electrical infrastructure to ensure a continued reliable and adequate air supply to personnel working underground.
Providing the workers within the underground mine with an adequate ventilation system and a functioning communications infrastructure, ensures the safest, and most efficient underground working environment.
Working in the mining industry for more than 20 years, ARA Electricals’ team have a clear understanding of the regulations and protocols to work safely in these environments.