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VOL. 15 NO. 80 April 2011
Print Post No. PP565001/00327
All enquiries phone: +61 7 5478 9432 Email Enquiries: apen@worldpacific.com.au Circulated to key personnel within all Power Utilities and Power Generators throughout Australia and New Zealand each issue
Essential Energy powers up for Safety Event of the Year ESI Field Field Days - Wagga Wagga - 11th & 12th May Special Spe cial Feature - Pages 4-19
Endeavour Energy to power Sydney’s Greater West and the Illawarra
Above Vince Graham
E
NDEAVOUR ENERGY was recently launched as the new brand for the network business delivering power to some of Australia’s fastest growing communities. Formerly the poles and wires business of Integral Energy, from 1 March Endeavour Energy will be responsible for the safe and reliable supply of electricity to 2.1 million people in households and businesses across Sydney’s Greater West, Blue Mountains, Southern Highlands and the Illawarra. Chief Executive Officer Vince Graham said the launch of the Endeavour Energy brand marked a new chapter in the history of electricity supply to these important regions.
“Electricity is the lifeblood of safe and functioning homes, businesses and communities,” Mr Graham said. “We know customers supplied by our network count on us and expect a safe, reliable and affordable electricity supply to meet their energy needs. “The Endeavour Energy brand reflects the serious and sincere effort we take every day to deliver power to some of Australia’s largest regional economies. “We’re excited to be able to focus our efforts on our network and our communities. It allows us to concentrate on quietly getting on with the business of powering life,” Mr Graham said. Mr Graham said Endeavour Energy was committed to delivering a $4.2 billion network investment and maintenance program by mid 2014. “We need to build and refurbish 59 major substations, construct 200 kilometres of new transmission lines and upgrade over 450 power lines to meet the growth and reliability needs of our customers, and to replace ageing parts of our network. “While Endeavour Energy marks a new chapter, we remain mindful of affordability and will continue our plans to improve customer value. “From 1 July 2012, we expect all our residential and small business customers will pay the lowest network prices in NSW, and see the lowest cumulative increases thereafter out to 2014. “We remain focused on improving our
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Published Bi-Monthly - Circulated to key personnel within all Power Utilities and Power Generators throughout Australia and New Zealand
Circulated to key personnel within all State Departments of Road and Infrastructure throughout Australia including Road Construction Engineers, Field Leaders, Managers, Road Construction Team Leaders, Maintenance Engineers
Head Office: 14 Merriman Court, Palmwoods QLD 4555 Postal Address: PO Box 1176, MOOLOOLABA QLD 4557 Telephone: (07) 5478 9432 • Facsimile: (07) 5445 9431 Email: apen@worldpacific.com.au
network’s reliability, which has delivered the best overall reliability result in NSW for the past four years” Mr Graham said. Mr Graham said that the commitment of staff working behind the scenes to deliver these results at Endeavour Energy had not changed. “Our customers will still enjoy our friendly and down to earth approach to service,” Mr Graham said. Mr Graham said that 1 March also marked the transfer of Integral Energy’s retail customers and brand to Origin Energy as part of the NSW electricity reform process. “From 1 March, the Integral Energy brand will be owned by Origin and they will decide how it is used. For example, both Integral Energy and Origin brands will appear on customers’ bills for the immediate future,” Mr Graham said “Endeavour Energy’s change over of signage, stationery and uniforms to the new brand will occur in a staged manner over the coming nine months.” History • 1891 - Penrith is one of the first towns in NSW with reticulated electricity; Parramatta (1913) and Wollongong (1928) follow. • Early 1950s - more than 180 councils supply electricity across NSW • 1958 - Prospect and Illawarra County Councils begin supplying electricity across several council areas • 1960s-1990s - Prospect and Illawarra remain as amalgamations reduce the number of county councils • 1993 - Corporatisation of county councils • 1996 - Prospect Electricity and the northern section of Illawarra Electricity are merged to become Integral Energy • 2011 - Integral Energy electricity network renamed Endeavour Energy Endeavour Energy’s electricity network Endeavour Energy’s network serves over 2.1 million people spanning 24,500 square kilometres across Sydney’s Greater West, the Illawarra, Blue Mountains and Southern Highlands. With an estimated value of $3.3 billion, this network is made up of over 170 major substations, 315,000 power poles and 28,000 smaller substations bound together by 33,000 kilometres of underground cables and overhead powerlines. Endeavour Energy employs 2,888 people who are located at a corporate head office in Huntingwood in Sydney’s West and throughout 17 Field Support Centres. The ongoing responsibilities of Endeavour Energy will be to: • deliver a $4.2 billion upgrade of the electricity network by mid 2014 • maintain the poles and wires bringing electricity to your home or business • restore power supply after storms • read electricity meters, repair street lights and keep trees a safe distance from power lines
Jemena announces key senior appointments
Above: John van Weel
J
EMENA has announced the appointment of John van Weel to the position of Executive General Manager, Jemena Infrastructure Services. In the past 21 years John has worked in a variety of senior roles and organisations including his previous role at Jemena as General Manager, Gas, AlintaGas Networks (now WA Gas Networks) as Manager, Network Operations, and has previously held various general and engineering management roles at United Energy, Multinet Gas, the Gas & Fuel Corporation of Victoria and the Rural Water Commission of Victoria. “John brings enormous skill and experience across both gas and electricity management, covering all aspects of contracted service delivery and asset management, to the role” says Jemena Managing Director Paul Adams. “John’s immediate priorities are the achievement of Jemena Infrastructure Services’ safety, revenue and profit targets and the continued delivery of a competitive contracted services business to our customers, as well as making Jemena Infrastructure Services a great place to work.” As a result of John van Weel’s promotion to this Executive General Manager role, Jemena has appointed Peter Bowden to the position of General Manager Jemena Infrastructure Services Gas. “Peter is well known and respected within Jemena and the broader gas industry. He brings significant experience and skill to this role having spent some 30 years in the gas industry covering all aspects of network operations and asset management,” says Paul Adams. In his new role, Peter will manage the functions of design, construction, operation, and maintenance to deliver effective management of gas transmission and distribution networks on the east coast of Australia including the Jemena Gas Networks in New South Wales, Multinet Gas in Victoria, Tasmanian Gas Networks in Tasmania, the Eastern Gas Pipeline, the Queensland Gas Pipeline, and the Tasmanian Gas Pipeline. “Peter understands our gas business and the strategic issues our business faces. While ensuring Jemena Infrastructure Services Gas operations remain safe, his priorities are to continue the business focus on operational improvement, achieving commercial outcomes and ensuring it is well positioned to meet the challenges of the future,” says Paul Adams.
Thermal property analysis. Thermal resistivity testing of soil. Testing of cable backfill material. Design of cable bedding/backfill. Cable route thermal surveys. Phone: (02) 9737 9062 Web: www.geothermaust.com.au Page 2 - Australian Power & Energy News
Manager: Brett Hobson brett@geothermaust.com.au
Above: Peter Bowden
Australian Power & Energy News - Page 3
Essential Energy powers up for Safety Event of the Year Essential Energy is preparing to host the energy industry’s biggest safety event in Wagga Wagga this May, with thousands of industry experts set to descend on the city for the Electricity Supply Industry Field Days. Managing director, Terri Benson, said registrations were now open for industry professionals to attend the annual event. “All members of the electricity supply industry are encouraged to come along to the Field Days to learn more about the latest improvements in safety, health and the environment,” Terri said. “This event will bring together specialists from the electricity, water, mining and rail industries – with challenges relating to their everyday roles set to test their skills in workplace safety and best practice.” The Field Days will feature hands-on activities for all attendees, team challenges, demonstrations, workshops and an exhibition.
“All components of the Field Days are designed to promote health and safety in the electricity supply industry,” Terri said. “Essential Energy is pleased to be hosting the 2011 Electricity Supply Industry Field Days – and we hope to build on the successes of previous events to make this one the best yet.”
FIND OUT MORE: energy.com.au Website: www.fielddayswith yfielddays Twitter: www.twitter.com/energ ESI Field Days Tom Dwyer, Project Manager, 6 498 T: 02 6580 2653 M: 0429 45 m.au .co E: tom.dwyer@essentialenergy
Industry professionals will be challenged with real life scenarios in areas such as first aid.
Focus on Health
Taking it up a Notch Essential Energy is taking a new approach to this year’s Electricity Supply Industry Field Days challenges, completely redesigning some of the trials. General manager safety & employee services, Mark Mulligan, said Essential Energy is determined to create challenges reflective of real, day to day work tasks and was confident the realistic field assessments would be the best yet. “The industry as a whole is always striving to improve so we’re taking it up a notch and constructing practical challenges that provide opportunities for teams to test their skills in day to day tasks such as pole dressing, cable jointing and manual handling, with a focus on apprentices in the apprentice wiring challenge. “Some of the Field Days’ practical tests have been reborn, such as Laneway Challenges – designed to simulate real life scenarios for field crews and other industry professionals,” Mark said. “Rather than being a race against time, this
year’s team challenges will provide more relevant, authentic tests of activities faced by electricity supply professionals. “We’ve redesigned the challenges to recognise teams that follow best practise guidelines in all the areas tested.” In a first, the 2011 First Aid challenge will feature as a spectator attraction as well as a test of skill for the teams involved. “Our first aid teams will have to be on their game because the First Aid Challenges could take place anywhere and at any time throughout the Field Days,” Mark said. “In mock scenarios, a team could be asked to respond to a potential heart attack onsite, a spectator could fall over and need attention – it could be anything – we’ve designed a lifelike challenge to keep things fresh and convincing.”
or experienced something new. “Our aim is to add a new level of overall involvement in the Field Days – from hands-on activities to new and engaging demonstrations –improving the experience for everyone,” David said. One such activity involves the firing of fire extinguishers. With a host of models on hand for spectators to try, people will be talked through the theory The popular “car crash into a power pole” demonstration of using the equipment and will be on site at this year’s Field Days. then allowed to operate one. Interactive is the best way to describe the “There are many different types of fire 2011 Electricity Supply Industry Field Days to extinguisher on the market, but not everyone be held at Wagga Wagga, 11-12 May. knows how to operate the devices safely in an Attendees will be encouraged to participate emergency – this ‘activity for all’ will ensure in hands-on experiences using real equipment those who attend the event can use a fire to get a true feeling for and understanding of extinguisher effectively if the need arises,” the activities on offer. David said. From learning first hand how to safely Visitors to the Electricity Supply Industry discharge a fire extinguisher, to donning the Field Days can also participate in four wheel tools and personal protection equipment of a drive demonstrations, a road crash rescue, and live lineworker, crowds at this year’s Electricity watch a pole being stood using a helicopter. Supply Industry Field Days will be urged to “There will be risk assessment demonstrations step outside what is familiar and expand their by the Australian Army, information on loading experiences. vehicles by the Air Force, a heavy fleet focus Essential Energy’s regional general manager for safer and smarter vehicles, and experts Southern, David Nardi, said the interactive available to teach participants to spot the risks activities were all part of making sure everyone associated with creepy crawlies like spiders at the Field Days walked away having learnt and snakes,” David said.
Keeping it Real
More information about the 2011 Electricity Supply Industry Field Days program can be found at www.fielddayswithenergy.com.au Page 4 - Australian Power & Energy News
Visitors to the Field Days can expect to be entertained and informed about the latest industry advances.
Physical and mental health will come under the spotlight at the 2011 Electricity Supply Industry Field Days with participants able to access a variety of health related activities and information. With an emphasis on healthy lifestyles that positively benefit not just the individual but their family and work, participants at this year’s Field Days can take part in a cardiovascular health assessment and explore advice on how to quit smoking. Essential Energy’s general manager safety and employee services, Mark Mulligan, said the Pitstop men’s health program will be on site offering health assessments, with a separate focus on mental health initiatives and on women’s health. “The Pitstop program features different stations to check overall health and fitness, cholesterol, blood pressure and glucose levels, the prostate and mental health,” Mark said. “As well as taking part in health checks, participants can increase their awareness and knowledge about the effects of alcohol, good nutrition and smoking, and we’ll have a GP
Health Check
on hand to review individual results if people would like further advice.” The Cancer Council and Red Cross Blood Bank will also attend the Field Days, providing guidance on skin cancer prevention and offering on the spot blood typing. “Nutritional information from Mr Metabolism – a regular on morning television shows – will round out the overall health focus of the Electricity Supply Industry Field Days in Wagga Wagga,” Mark said.
Showcase of the latest in Industry Advances From helicopters and all-terrain vehicles to first-aid kits, safety equipment and intelligent switchgear, the 2011 Electricity Supply Industry Field Days will be brimming over with interesting and innovative exhibits. Event host, Essential Energy, has joined with Rentara Events to organise one of the most extensive displays of industry and safety equipment ever assembled.
Essential Energy’s regional general manager Southern, David Nardi, said the exhibition at Wagga Wagga Showgrounds would showcase the latest in industry technology, with a strong focus on safety. “At Essential Energy, safety of both our crews and the community is foremost – a safety focus that is deeply ingrained across the electricity industry,” David said. “As the biggest industry event of the year, the Field Days are an ideal venue to promote the very best in safety equipment, as well as new types of equipment such as power poles and switchgear. “Delegates will have the opportunity to learn first hand about new types of equipment and techniques that can help improve workplace efficiency and ensure the safety of field crews. “The exhibition will be well worth a look given the quality and variety of exhibitors who have signed up this year.” There will be plenty of new tools and equipment on site in the exhibition space at the 2011 ESI Field Days.
“We’re taking this year’s team challenges up a notch – making them even more lifelike and exciting.” Mark Mulligan, General Manager Safety and Employee Services.
Don’t miss all the energy of this year’s Field Days
2011 Electricity Supply Industry Field Days Wednesday 11 May and Thursday 12 May 2011 Wagga Wagga Showground
The most important safety event on the calendar – the 2011 Electricity Supply Industr y Field Days – is on in just a few weeks. A not-to-be-missed event for everyone in the industry, the 2011 Electricity Supply Industry Field Days are a relaxed and interactive way for you and your team to learn about safety, discover the latest industry innovations and win fantastic prizes. Exciting fieldbased challenges, informative demonstrations and workshops, and stands hosted by industry suppliers will feature across both days. To register, go to
Corner Urana and Bourke Streets
fielddayswithenergy.com.au
Australian Power & Energy News - Page 5
New Products, Equipment & New Technology
ON DISPLAY!
At ESI Field Days
>>>
11th-12th May 2011
Foundations of our modern electricity network Thew & McCann, Brisbane
Setting the standard for overhead line construction
Adolf Lamprecht recalls the era of the 1950s and 60s when today’s highly integrated electricity supply networks were being built and reviews some of the continuing research and development. Adolf played an important role as a design adviser for the Electricity Authority of NSW. He served with the Authority from the mid 1950s until its closure in 1979 and now is an active member of the Thew & McCann R&D team. [Adolf Lamprecht has been a technical consultant to Thew & McCann for more than ten years. He is a graduate of the Professional School of Electrical Engineering, Klagenfurt, Austria.]
Our small team was also responsible for the production of the design manual for overhead line construction. It was titled “Overhead Line Construction Standard Drawings and Design Data” and was released in 1961. At this time there was no uniform standard and our manual explained how to design overhead power lines according to the standard that we had established. This manual was used throughout the life of the rural subsidy scheme and further afield. The Rural Electricity Subsidy Scheme passed into history in the late 1970s when the Electricity Authority’s functions were absorbed by the Energy Authority, which operated in this role throughout most of the 1980s. In the 1990s, there were big changes in the whole system of generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. Essential Energy (previously Country Energy) is the modern day provider of electricity supply for customers in the rural regions of NSW and it operates on a vast scale compared to the time when I was involved in these services.
4.
I
HAVE BEEN fortunate to play a small part in the decades-long project that delivered mains electricity to a large proportion of people in rural NSW, and I like to think that I continue to play a small part in helping to develop some of the technologies needed to safely and effectively deliver electricity. The electricity networks that span the Australian countryside have mostly all been created in the past half century. In NSW, for example, in the years immediately following the Second World War, few if any electricity networks existed outside the main urban centres. In 1946, the State Government undertook the challenge of electrification by establishing the Rural Electricity Subsidy Scheme that provided funds to local supply authorities (normally shire or county councils) to help cover the cost of capital expenditure on electricity distribution equipment for rural communities involved in primary production. The Electricity Authority of NSW, responsible for the coordination and development of power supply, administered the scheme and over the next 30 years it assisted in the connection of more than 100,000 rural consumers to mains supply.
Page 6 - Australian Power & Energy News
On-going legacy in safe earthing Safety has, of course, always been a critical issue in the development of electricity supply and this issue drove the Electricity Authority in 1959 to launch a detailed investigation into earthing practices. As a result of these investigations, the same small team of Fitzpatrick, Robertson and myself were tasked with producing a series of documents for safe and effective earthing practice. These documents were: Principles of Earthing, The Earthing Handbook and The Code of Practice for Protective Earthing. They were completed in the early 60s with a series of provisional documents being released to the supply authorities in the interim. Around this time, Thew & McCann were involved in the safe earthing issue. The company imported the NORMA earth tester from Austria and it was the first electronic tester introduced into the Australian market 1.
under the most severe faults. The R&D team also designed insulated operating sticks that play an integral role in portable earthing operations.
Designing pole platforms Another recent innovation, with connections to the past is the Universal Pole Platform. This device is replacing a longestablished pole platform, first designed and released in the sixties while I was with the Electricity Authority. This traditional pole platform is designed for wooden poles and is held to the pole with a chain and spikes. Apart from the heavy weight and size restrictions of this working platform, the industry has long been aware of some deficiencies and limitations in its use. In fact, this version was a considerable improvement on what it replaced back in the sixties. At the time, the Sydney County Council had a version that was held to the pole with an ordinary garden chain (which fell to pieces when we tested it at the Authority). We redesigned the platform and Thew & McCann arranged its manufacture and supply. In late 2008, the Thew & McCann R&D team designed the Universal Pole Platform made with a polyurethane deck and “poly pads” that joins the pole at two vertical points of padded contact to ensure a nonslip grip. The platform is secured to the pole using a rated securing chain and a high tensile stainless steel locking assembly. It features three lifting positions and attaches to any type of pole and is now beginning to be used in the field, replacing the traditional pole platform.
Continuing innovation
2.
3.
Clockwise from top right: 1. Universal Pole Platform 2. Temporary Crossarm with Lifting Bracket
Establishing a SWER network A key low-cost technology that suited this distribution of electric power to a sparsely settled area was the single wire earth return system, or SWER, the network system that is now common across Australia. In 1957, the Electricity Authority released a manual titled “Single Wire Earth Return Distribution for Rural Areas”. This manual formed the standard for network extension under the rural subsidy scheme. Various supply engineers in NSW and Victoria were consulted in the preparation of this booklet, which was produced by the Authority’s design engineers John Fitzpatrick and Ted Robertson, assisted by the Chief Draftsman, which was the role I filled. The manual acted as a catalyst for takeup of this form of efficient and low-cost electricity supply, which was rolled out throughout the rural areas of NSW and beyond in the ensuing years.
Not only were they reliable in terms of pricing accuracy and response, they were also one of the few organizations willing to arrange the manufacture of components to our design specifications. Thew & McCann also featured in a small way during these years on the issue of safe earthing.
3. Constant Pressure Nut – design images 4. Tmac Portable Earth Set – design image
Connections with the past I recently re-visited some of the annual reports of the Authority and noted that in the Appendices to these reports there was reference to the Estimates of Cost of Power Lines and Substations for Rural Electricity Supply (issued annually). This sparked my memory and leads to a slightly ironic twist, given my current employment. The calculations for subsidies under the Rural Electricity Subsidy Scheme depended on a reliable source of prices for line hardware. From the mid-1950s until the end of the scheme Thew & McCann supplied the bulk of those prices.
and provided a very accurate and reliable reading. It replaced the existing MEGGER earth testers that provided quite inaccurate readings. Over the decades, the company has continued to focus on safe earthing, particularly the provision of portable earthing equipment. As the result of market dissatisfaction with a number of imported products, Thew & McCann has designed its own versions to meet local industry requirements, supplying both copper and aluminium based earthing devices. A related earthing advance is the Constant Pressure Nut (CPN) designed by Thew & McCann for the attachment of portable earthing devices, and which maintains pressure on the connection even
The company maintains its historic connection with SWER networks, as evidenced by its design of a new conductor lifter. Essential Energy (previously Country Energy) advised in early 2009 that it wanted to standardise its equipment for lifting conductors and other plant up electricity poles. The initial lifting unit targeted SWER construction, and is used to lift conductors on to a pole top-mounted, including pin insulators or line post insulators, with a WLL of between 100 to 150 Kg. Thew and McCann has designed a prototype, which attaches to the pole top, or the horizontal cross arm, and can be used as a lifting point, for the raising of conductors and tooling. Lifting rigs for other plant and equipment are under development. The R& D team continues on this path of innovation, with another example being the Temporary Crossarm with Lifting Bracket that is designed to support LV conductors while a wood crossarm is removed and replaced. Developed in conjunction with a leading Australian utility, it enables the changeover operation to be carried out quickly and safely while the line remains live. It is now an industry benchmark and its development began nearly 30 years ago, when it became the first of its kind in the world. In the late 1970s, Thew & McCann worked with the then South East Queensland Electricity Board (SEQEB) to produce a foam-filled fibreglass tube that could temporarily and safely hold the insulators prior to replacement of an existing crossarm. Innovation has been an ongoing driver in my working life and also in the electricity supply industry, as showcased by organizations like Thew & McCann.
For more than 60 years Thew & McCann has delivered superior and unique products and services to the electricity supply industry. The technical excellence and experience of our personnel, supported by an ongoing research and development program, ensures the quality and reliability you require. Call us today to discuss how we can meet your specific requirements.
T: (+61) 07 3826 6000 E: sales@thew.com.au www.thew.com.au Transmission and Distribution • Power Stations • Telecommunications Public Transport • Electrical Contractors • Electrical Wholesalers Industrial • Mining • Government • Original Equipment Manufacturers
Australian Power & Energy News - Page 7
New Products, Equipment & New Technology
ON DISPLAY!
At ESI Field Days
>>>
11th-12th May 2011
Hylec customises energy solutions in more ways than one
H
YLEC ENERGY SOLUTIONS founder and General Manager, Rob Hyland had a very clear vision of the future when he established the company in Brisbane in1998. He had already enjoyed a long and successful, 30 year career in electrical, mechanical and polymer products, so Rob knew the electrical industry, understood its failings and more importantly, knew how to improve the way electrical products were supplied.
Above all, Rob believed that there was more to the supply of electrical products than simply an over the counter sales approach and adopted a philosophy that would incorporate an emphasis on personal, targeted service, beyond the counter. Rob also wanted to provide an assurance that every product in the Hylec catalogue would not only conform to the highest standards of quality, but represent the leading edge in electrical components from around the globe. Rob Hyland also went one step further, determined to cultivate a team of professionals, skilled in industry electrical requirements and proficient in technical know-how. He wanted to build a sales team that could collectively deliver that important, beyond the counter, sales approach necessary to complete his vision. This technical expertise is an important aspect of Hylec’s brand of customer service and it sets them apart. The company’s clients know that there’s a wealth of electrical component knowledge behind every recommendation made by the team at Hylec. The sales team also thrives, not only on the delivery of a quick response, but on creating a ‘win-win’ situation for both the customer and Hylec by seeking a cost effective solution at all times. For Hylec it means repeat business and there is a long list of satisfied and loyal customers who can confirm that consistent, value for money approach. The list of clients who appreciate that extra Hylec attention to detail is impressive and continues to expand. The list already includes major energy suppliers such as Energex, Origin Energy, Ergon Energy, Energy Australia, Powerlink, Country Energy, Central Energy and Power Corp. These are all regular customers who have enjoyed a long association with Hylec Energy Solutions. The company has also cultivated important relationships with various major contractors and has worked extensively with I Power and Thiess. Other major clients in the transport sector include Queensland Rail, QR National, Rail Corp NSW, Vic Rail and Yarra Trams Victoria. It confirms that Rob Hyland’s forward thinking vision has long been a reality and it’s why Hylec Energy Solutions has expanded its area of operation significantly since 1998. The company is now extremely active in all states across Australia and continues to grow in influence within the energy sector.
THE ABILITY TO MANUFACTURE A CUSTOMISED SOLUTION Although the company’s traditional focus has been on supplying a range of products for electrical utilities, transport, mining, oil and gas sites, consulting engineers, wholesalers/re-sellers, switchboard manufacturers and major electrical contractors, there is another important Hylec customer benefit. The company has a subsidiary called Hylec Services Pty Ltd which has its own team of in-house designers, engineers and fitters. Hylec Services is the testing, manufacturing and assembly arm of the business and it broadens the company’s capacity to respond to the needs of its diverse range of customers. It also means that Hylec can usually manufacture, customised electrical and safety products for anyone involved with a unique electrical application. Hylec Services also provides a Utility Equipment Plant Repair & Test Service when needed. Already Hylec Services manufacture a range of electrical products including portable earthing systems, insulated extension probes and a variety of cable stripping tools. THE BEST IN INTERNATIONAL AND LOCAL PRODUCT Beyond the manufacturing aspect, the company takes great pride in the range of products it can supply and invests heavily in sourcing the best and latest components both locally and from overseas. As an example is Hylec’s range featuring the latest FAMECA products sourced from France. This equipment was specifically developed to enable efficient testing and tracing of underground and over the ground cables. These products provide a huge advantage for the energy sector because they can be used on ‘live’ circuits to quickly establish which particular cable is faulty and in the event of ‘line breakage’, the equipment can also identify which two wires require re-connection when faced with a complex patch of cables travelling over a long distance within the one conduit. The range includes TAG2020 Multi range Voltage detector; TAG5000 Medium to High Voltage Phasing device; FC2300 De-energised cable identifier and phaser; FC5000 Live insulated cable identifier; FC3000 Low voltage mapping and live multi circuit mapping.
Hylec Energy Solutions stock a huge and comprehensive range of electrical and safety products and it’s a blue chip list which features all the leading manufacturers. These are brand names known for innovation, reliability and quality. They include: • Clydesdale - Arc Proof Clothing, Conductor & Cable Place Products • Druisedt GmbH - Flexible Cables, Braids, Laminates, Contacts • HD Electric Company - HV & LV Field test and monitoring equipment • Hylec Services - Utility Equipment Plant Repair & Test Service • Jean Muller Switchgear - LV Distribution & Din Protective Switchgear & Enclosures • Lindsey Manufacturing - Transmission & Distribution Rollers, Current & Voltage Insulator Sensors and Emergency Restoration Structures • Kunz Gloves - Outers, Inners, Riggers Gloves • Marigold Insulating Gloves - Operating Class 00-4 • MV Technologies - Line & cable fault indicators and monitors - MV Switchgear & Fuse switch Isolators and Lightning Arresters • Mykal - Enviro compliant electrical, industrial, oil degreasers, wipes, sprays • Nasco Inc - Arc Flash outer wear for cold, wet and windy weather • Network Project & Specialty product supplier • Nybro - Low Maintenance Transformer Breathers • Paul Preising Gmbh & Co. Kg Personal Protective Equipment • Powermart - HV & LV Standoff Insulators & OEM equipment • Powersines - Energy Conservation Controllers • Rauckman Utilities - Electro-static wildlife guards • Runfold Ltd - Animal Protections Covers and special shaped PVC products • Sibille Fameca Electric featuring: o FAMECA SA - HV & LV Detectors, Phasers, GPS Phasers, Working Earths, HV & LV Cable Identifiers, Operating Sticks, Insulated Gloves & Mats and LV Insulated Tools, Ladder Systems o Alroc - Cable Preparation Tool Systems for LV, MV, EHV o Electro Pjp - Instrument Leads, clips tests probes
Tag 330 High Voltage Tester
Cable Identifier
•
• • •
o Live Working - EHV Systems Platforms Tools o Mos Industries - Cable Spiking, cutting, crimping Tools o Sibille Tools - Insulated Tools, PPE, Height Safety, Arc Flash Helmet & Shields, Ladder Racks for Vans and trucks o Soreca - Cable Connectors, shear head Technology o Techno Will - Electrical Plastic Technology Southern States Inc - EHV switchgear, Power Fuses, Gas Breakers & Current sensors Stanco Mfg Inc - Arc Flash Suits, Clothing, Hot work Suits, Face Shields Tools - Cable & Conductor Preparation Tools Westex Fabrics - Arc Flash Fabric
THE HYLEC VISION CONTINUES TO SHINE We are fortunate in Australia that within the power and energy sector there is a wealth of remarkable talent but any associated infrastructure will always be dependent on the quality of its components. Hylec Energy Solutions performs an important role in ensuring that the components, tools and equipment it supplies to the industry are of the highest standards in reliability, performance and efficiency. Rob Hyland set out to establish a business that would meet that worthy objective and it’s obvious that the vision he had in 1998 has not only been witnessed but has now matured. A company with that kind of emphasis on service discipline has no limits and it will be interesting to see how far Hylec Energy Solutions expands in the future.
Assorted Hand Tools
FC5500 Network Tracking System
Tag 2020 Medium Voltage Tester
Gloves
IMPORTANT NOTE: Hylec Energy Solutions will be featuring its products and services at various trade exhibitions over the next few months.
Page 8 - Australian Power & Energy News
You can catch up with Hylec representatives at Esafe in Wagga Wagga on the 11th and 12th of May; the MESA Conference in Brisbane on the 25th – 27th May and the Surat Basin Mining Expo on the 22nd and 23rd of June.
This year Hylec is celebrating over 12 years of successful partnerships and satisfied customers. We are pleased to be a part of the Industry’s efforts to have high reliability by supplying smart products.
Earthing Equipment Hylec manufacture to order a full range of earthing solutions. Whatever your indoor, outdoor, overhead or underground requirements are, we have a solution custom made.
Test Equipment
www.hylec.com.au
Hylec carry a full range of LV, MV & HV testing equipment. Voltage detectors and readers, Phasing units, live cable tracing gear, Networking equipment and current reading devices.
Arc Flash and Protective Clothing Hylec Has a full range of Arc Flash and FR clothing ranging from 8 Cal through to 100 Cal switching suits including fully fan ventilated head and face shields. The Westex brand is guaranteed to hold its Cal rating for the life of the garment.
Visit us on Outdoor Stand No. 3 - ESI Field Days Hylec Energy Solutions Pty Ltd • Unit 1, 8 Ives Street Murrarie QLD 4172 • PO Box 2209 Tingalpa QLD 4173 Email: adv@hylec.com.au • Phone: 07 3890 0966 Australian Power & Energy News - Page 9
New Products, Equipment & New Technology
ON DISPLAY!
At ESI Field Days
>>>
11th-12th May 2011
Next Gen Multi-function Earth Testers now accepted T
HE NEW AEMC 6471 with its Australian designed and manufactured kit, identified as the 6471AU is now gaining acceptance by major utilities. The increased benefits of the 6471AU kit include: • 25% lower investment • Faster measuring time • Increased measuring range in stakeless mode • 4-metre heavy duty cables to reach test points on pole substations • Insulation piercing test points to eliminate damage to covered conductors • Automatic determination of soil resistivity in Ohm-metres • Memory, DataView software & USB port for recording & downloading of test results Most utilities and major contractors have recognised the unique cost and time saving benefits of multi-function Earth Testers. The significant benefit these instruments provide is to measure the earth resistance of almost any distribution substation whist it is in service and carrying full load current. This is achieved by providing both Selective and The AEMC 6471AU with many of the accessories which can be optioned to Stakeless methods of measurement which suit local requirements eliminates the requirement to disconnect or isolate any of the earth bonds. Each test method has its own unique application for the type and to remain on the ground and be connected to allow measurement of city and rural pole test points 3-4 metres above. The kits, while subs, SWER substations and most padmount location of the substation being tested. functional, require special cables to extend the type substations without isolation or any manufacturer’s standard cables to 4 metres. disconnection. Significant time saving is Special Kits Developed for Local Utilities Working closely with major Australian The additional connectors required add to the achieved and planned outages are minimised. Electricity Distributors has led to the bulk and are another item to be maintained. Automatic Soil Resistivity Calculation development of unique kits each designed to Previous generation earth testers required meet the local work practices, OH&S, the type Reduce Planned Outages The AEMC 6471 with the standard Soil Resistivity to be derived mathematically of substations, and the terrain where they are Australian accessories can measure the earth by the user from a resistance method. This used. Most special kits are based on a standard resistance of most distribution substations in required a either a scientific calculator or a PC running Excel to calculate each measurement. multi-function earth tester and kitting it up service. The Selective and Stakeless methods The new AEMC 6471 performs the complex with special leads to allow the instrument
High Current Resistance Measurements Many applications of low resistance measurement require a test current greater than the traditional 10Amps. Measurement of busbar joints and circuit breaker contacts is recommended to be done with a current approximating the normal load current of the equipment. Typically test currents from 200 to 600 Amps are preferred. Measurement of the winding resistance of large transformers and motors can be achieved faster with a test current between 20 and 60 Amps. The higher current will saturate the core and reach stability faster than a low current. On very large equipment, a 10 Amp instrument may never reach stability and fluctuating readings will occur. In the past high current Ohmmeters were unbelievably heavy, with some tipping the scales at over 30kg! Carrying these into difficult locations could introduce some OH&S issues. DV-Power of Sweden offer a large range of high current micro-ohmmeters and winding ohmmeters weighing from just 8kg!
Right: RMO600A in traditional aluminium case
Using the optional current clamp to measure resistance with both sides earthed
Transformer Ohmmeters – Now with Demagnetiser! The DV-Power RMO-T series Transformer Ohmmeter are available in 6 models with test currents adjustable from 5mA to 10, 20, 25, 40, 60 and now 100 Amps. All RMO-T series are dual channel to enable the primary and secondary windings to be measured and displayed simultaneously. After test the windings are automatically discharged to remove the hazardous voltage from the windings. The new RMO60TD now includes demagnetising by applying an AC current of decreasing magnitude to the transformer at the conclusion of the test. The RMO60T includes an on-load tap-changer control to enable dynamic resistance values to be measured. This function is optional on the RMO40T. On Load Tap Changers The RMO40T and 60T can be used to measure the winding resistance of individual taps on a power transformer’s tap changer. It can also check whether the on-load tap changer (OLTC) switches without interruption. The moment a tap changers position is changed, the RMO detects a sudden very short drop in current. The magnitude of the ripple is used to determine a correctly functioning tap changer from a malfunctioning one. The tap-change control on the RMO allows the operator to control the ONTC from the instrument.
Changes in Test Current Ripple are indicated during transitions
Right: The DVPower RMO-T series Left: Burnt contacts detected by dynamic resistance measurement
Page 10 - Australian Power & Energy News
Pacific Test Equipment Field Kit The AEMC 6471 is supplied with the exclusive Pacific Test Equipment field kit which has been designed in consultation with Australian users. Key benefit of the Pacific Test Equipment kit is the winding of the long leads onto a single reel which can be wound up simultaneously in a fraction of the time taken with the more common individual spools. Leads are colour coded, red for current (long lead) and blue for potential (short lead) so there is no confusion when they are laid out along the ground. The kits are available in the standard 50 and 25 metre lead lengths for areas of good soil condition or in 100 and 50 metre lead lengths for areas of poorer soil. Any other preferred lengths or colours can be made to order. Built for our Rugged Environment It is a fact that earth testers are often used under harsh conditions, frequently in dust or rain. The AEMC 6471 is built for the rugged environment of earth testing. The case is heavy duty resin moulded and is weatherproof when closed. It needs no further protection but is supplied with a heavy duty canvas bag to keep the instrument and all accessories together in a convenient kit. The new AEMC 6471 with its Australian designed and manufactured kit, identified as the 6471AU is now gaining acceptance by major utilities.
DV-Power 3-Phase Ratiometer
Micro-Ohmmeters
Above: RMO600G in new resin case
mathematics automatically. All the user has to do is enter the stake spacing and the instrument will return the result directly on Ohm-metres. As with earth resistance measurements, the results of soil resistivity can be stored in memory and downloaded to spreadsheet for later analysis.
Collapse of test current during tap changer operation indicates a fault with the tap changer
The DV-Power TRT series automatic 3-phase Turns Ratiometer measures phase shift, excitation current and ratios from 0.8 to 15,000 on all types of single and 3-phase power, distribution and instrument transformers. All types of transformer connections are accommodated including star, delta and zig-zag. True 3-phase supply The TRT series features a true 3-phase supply with 120° phase displacement unlike most other ratiometers which use three single phase supplies. DV-Win Software The supplied DV-WIN software allows remote control of the TRT and export of the measurements to PC. Remote Tap Changer Control Like the RMO-T series transformer ohmmeter, the TRT allows users to change the transformer taps remotely from the instrument.
NEW CAT Circuit Breaker Analyser The new range of Circuit Breaker Analysers & Timers from DV-Power of Sweden compliment the wide range of High Current Ohmmeters, Winding Ohmmeters and Ratiometers. The CAT series are state-of-the-art instruments designed for advanced testing and analysis of a wide range of circuit breakers. The CAT will measure timing and record graphs of coil currents and the displacement of the moving parts. The CAT is a stand alone or PC-controlled instrument for condition assessment of circuit breakers. The timing channels record closings and openings of main contacts, resistor contacts and auxiliary contacts. Graphs of both open and close coil current and displacements of HV and MV circuit breaker moving parts are recorded. Main contact channels can also measure the resistance of pre-insertion resistors. The CAT provides easy selection of the different operating modes: Open, Close, Open-Close, Close-Open, Open-CloseOpen. The breaker can be operated remotely by using the External Trigger. DV-Win software provides full control of all CAT functions from a PC including acquisition and analysis of test results. The DV-Power CAT Breaker Analyser is fully optionable to allow users to purchase the exact capabilities to suit their needs. The CAT can be user specified as follows: • 3 or 6 channels for main contacts • 3 channels for auxiliary contacts • Coil operation • Coil current measurement • 2 analogue inputs • Analogue or digital transducer input • USB memory stick
Transformer & Switchgear Analysis Winding Ohmmeters DV-Power RMO-T Series • Choice of maximum test currents of 10, 20, 40 & 60 Amps • Tests primary & secondary windings simultaneously • Resistance measurements from 1uΩ to 2,000Ω • On-Load Tap Changer Analysis • Automatic Discharge after test • Memory for 500 measurements with RMO Win-T software
Ratiometers DV-Power TRT Series • True 3-phase test supply • Ratios from 0.8 to 15000 • User selectable test voltage • Tests all types of single and 3-phase transformers • Measures turns ratio, phase shift and excitation current
MicroOhmeter DV-Power RMO Series • Choice of maximum test currents of 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 & 600 Amps • Light weight from 8kg • Resistance measurement from 0.1uΩ to 1Ω Visit us on • Accuracy 0.2% Stand No. 7 ESI Field • Memory for 500 measurements with Days RMO Win software • Optional Remote Control
Circuit Breaker Analyser & Timer DV-Power CAT Series • Timing and motion measurement • 6 or 3 channels for main contacts • 1 transducer input (digital or analogue) • 3 channels for auxiliary inputs • 4 analog inputs • Results printed on 80mm thermal printer • Detailed analysis of test results using versatile DV-Win software
NEW Pacific Test Equipment Pty Ltd HEAD OFFICE 27/7 Anella Avenue Castle Hill 2154 P.O. Box 6930 Baulkham Hills NSW 2153 T +61 2 9659 2300 • F +61 2 9659 2311 MELBOURNE 16 Dickson Court (P.O. Box 352) Williamstown VIC 3016 T +61 3 9397 0453 • F +61 3 9397 0473
www.pacifictest.com.au
sales@pacifictest.com.au Australian Power & Energy News - Page 11
New Products, Equipment & New Technology
ON DISPLAY!
At ESI Field Days
>>>
11th-12th May 2011
AK Power Solutions celebrates 20 years in Power T
HIS YEAR, AK Power Solutions (AKPS) proudly celebrates the 20th anniversary of its beginnings in July 1991 as Haycolec Switchgear Pty Ltd and, exactly a decade later, the purchase of Haycolec by Andrew Kounavis and renaming (bearing the initials of its founder) to AK Power Solutions Pty Ltd. Greek born, keen single-engine Cessna pilot and passionate boatie, Andrew passed away in October 2008 after a long illness. His passion for engineering excellence endures throughout the business today. While fondly recalling Andrew’s enduring legacy as the founder, visionary and driving force behind the business, AKPS remains firmly focused on the future. The 20th anniversary celebration is timely: coinciding with new drives and initiatives within the business. From its inception in 1991, the fledgling company wasted no time, immediately acquiring the product range of Tresco Engineering. It continued to manufacture and supply Earthing Link Boxes and SVLs for EC NSW (known as Pacific Power, now TransGrid) and Sydney Electricity (Energy Australia). Its first product, a 12/24kV Air Break Switch (pictured) was designed and tested in 1992. It soon won its first contract with Shortland Electricity (later amalgamated with Sydney Electricity to form EnergyAustralia) to supply ABS’s. A 12/24kV HV Link product was also designed and tested in that year. Re-development of these products, and others that came soon after, form a key part of the AKPS product range to this day and remain in wide use throughout the industry. A move from the temporary site in Taren Point to a new site in Smithfield in 1992 heralded more successes. Winning the first ‘combined tender’ for all 25 NSW electricity utilities meant expanded facilities were urgently needed to handle the increasing quantity of orders and materials. The following year saw the completion of design and testing for yet another new product, Porcelain Surge Arresters. In 1994, Haycolec again won the NSW combined spec. tender and full manufacturing of Surge Arrestors began in earnest. With a strong commitment to R&D, further product innovations evolved in response to the demand of changing standards over the period. In 1996, the company started making Disconnectors and quickly won a major contract with TransGrid, followed by another with ETSA. The following year a
Page 12 - Australian Power & Energy News
Above: AK Power Solutions’ Production team. Left: Andrew Kounavis working on an early version Air Break Switch (1992).
Sectionaliser product was fully developed. In those pre-internet days, reflecting Andrew’s “can-do” attitude, AKPS’ representatives often made long country trips with an Air Break Switch in the back of a car, travelling for one month in every quarter, calling on engineers in each of the 25 NSW / ACT electricity authorities in operation at the time. The company’s reputation grew strongly during those early years. Polymeric Surge Arresters were designed and tested in 1998 and major contracts were secured with Ergon Energy and Energex. It was again time for This photo: TransGrid installation performed by AKPS in Parkes Below: AKPS Disconnectors supplied to Endeavour Energy Substation in St Marys
“From the outset, AK Power Solutions’ competitive advantage was based on a strong personal service ethic and its ability to provide tailored designs, engineering and local manufacturing solutions to meet the specific, unique, requirements of its customers.”
expansion and the manufacturing facility in Smithfield was relocated to larger premises in Wetherill Park. The roots of AKPS’ growing international market also began in 1998 with the winning of a large contract to supply LECCO Electricity in Sri Lanka with Air Break Switches. At the same time, the company continued to expand its local market reach and started supplying QLD Rail with Railway Isolators the following year. Meanwhile, the Disconnector business continued to grow rapidly as the company won contract after contract with Ergon Energy, ETSA, Integral Energy, EnergyAustralia and TransGrid. From the outset, AK Power Solutions’ competitive advantage was based on a strong personal service ethic and its ability to provide tailored designs, engineering and local manufacturing solutions to meet the unique requirements of its customers. To complement and support its growing product range, in 2005 AKPS created an expert service team to provide condition assessment reviews, maintenance, refurbishment and replacement services for customers’ existing equipment, as well as installation of new equipment. This offer was soon taken up and a large contract with TransGrid was followed by major installation projects with Integral Energy, Ergon Energy, Power & Water and Jemena. In celebrating its 20th anniversary, AKPS has embraced the occasion to revisit and reinvigorate its strategic intent and future direction. AKPS Managing Director Maria Kounavis took over the proprietorship and direction of the business following Andrew’s passing in 2008. Maria attributes AK Power Solutions’ reputation and success to its people. “Our qualified technical, marketing and operational team’s vast industry knowledge and experience has earned the company a valued reputation as a key provider to the industry” she says. From its manufacturing facility based in Huntingwood in Western Sydney, AKPS partners with its suppliers and customers to provide tailored power solutions to meet customers’ specific needs across a broad spectrum of applications. HV Disconnectors, Sectionalisers, Air Break Switches, HV Links, Link Boxes and Surge Arresters remain an important component of AKPS’ core business. The company has also enjoyed particular success with the ILJIN SF6 Load Break Switches.
AKPS has also grown and developed a full installation service as well as maintenance, refurbishment or replacement options for products including HV Disconnectors, Earth Switches, Air Break Switches, Single Phase Links or specialist Fuse-Links or assemblies for these. With Quality Management System certification to AS/NZS ISO 9001:2008 since 1995, AK Power Solutions’ low, medium and high voltage tailored applications continue to be valued and extensively utilised by major electrical power utilities including, Energex, Ausgrid (formerly EnergyAustralia), Ergon Energy, Essential Energy (formerly Country Energy), ETSA Utilities, Endeavour (formerly Integral Energy), Jemena, SP AusNet, Powercor, Power and Water Corporation, Western Power and many other Australian power industry customers. In acknowledging AKPS’ 20 year contribution to the industry, Mr David Pengilly, Executive Manager with Ausgrid, sent this congratulatory message “ It is with great pleasure that I acknowledge the contribution of AK Power Solutions on their landmark 20th Birthday. I have watched AK grow from modest beginnings with the introduction of their Air Break Switch and have seen them invest in engineering design and manufacturing to create the company they are today. We have a long relationship with AK and I appreciate the effort they apply to providing quality products and timely response to customers. Congratulations on your first 20 years and many more.” While maintaining the core focus of the business on designing, manufacturing and supporting tailored solutions for its substantial base of Australian customers, AKPS are now well advanced in developing products for international markets. Its products have been approved and utilised by a growing customer base of international power industry customers including National Grid, Transpower, LECO, C.E.B., PPC, SCECO, ESKOM and others. To mark AKPS’ 20th anniversary, Mr Yoon Young Lee, ILJIN Electric Company’s Head of Heavy Industry Division, also sent a personal congratulatory message to AKPS saying “Both ILJIN and AK Power Solutions have been co-operating with each other for the last 10 years in the Australian electricity market. We, at ILJIN Electric, congratulate AK Power Solutions heartily on your 20th anniversary. AK Power Solutions is always prepared to work efficiently and with good practice and we are always satisfied in working with (you). We wish you tremendous success in everything you do and congratulate you again on your 20th Anniversary.” With a strategic network of partners around the world and with numerous Australian and international clients, AK Power Solutions looks with confidence towards the future and remains committed to the on-going support of all its business customers.
Australian Power & Energy News - Page 13
Electricity Supply Industry Field Days Powering Safety in 2011 Hosted by Essential Energy
Wagga Wagga Showground 11-12 May 2011
Seminar Information ESS028_ESIFD_Centre_Spread_FA.indd 1
The Fatal Vision ® Program Elaine Lensing, Essential Energy A practical demonstration on how a fun night out with friends and co-workers involving alcohol and other drugs can affect an employee’s job performance and the overall work environment. The Fatal Vision ® Simulator Goggles will be used for demonstrating this principle. Presented by Elaine Lensing, Drug and Alcohol Coordinator, Essential Energy Elaine has held a number of roles during her 20 years at Essential Energy and is currently overseeing the introduction of random drug and alcohol testing across the organisation.
… Power in Control
Come and see our display of Silicone Insulators, Switchgear and Maintenance Products on show at ESI Field Days - Wagga Wagga - 2011 Stand No.1 www.adaptaust.com.au Tel: (03) 9330 0666
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See us at Stand 13 Outside
The Proactive Turnkey Service that Identifies, Locates, and Prioritises Overhead Distribution Equipment in Pre-Fail Condition … ���������������������������� ��������������������������������������
�������������������������������������������� �������������������������������� POLE FOUNDATIONS EXACTER
56 Antimony Street PO Box 207 Carole Park QLD 4300 AUSTRALIA QLD +61 7 3879 4000 NSW +61 2 6297 0576
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WE SURVEY YOUR TARGETED WORST-PERFORMING / MOST CRUCIAL CIRCUITS
2
WE LOCATE, ANALYSE & MAP EQUIPMENT IN PRE-FAIL CONDITION
3
YOU RECEIVE PRIORITISED PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE REPORTS & MAP DATA
Email headoffice@polefoundations.com Website www.polefoundations.com www.reducesaifi.com
9/26 Octal Street, Yatala QLD 4207 Ph: (07) 3382 6882
Proven performance – 60 years and counting. Wood poles... they’re a steal. With a proven service life of over 60 years and counting, wood poles provide the most cost-effective, safe and environmentally responsible solution for supporting overhead lines. With these benefits and more, wood poles offer so much value… they’re a steal!
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ElectroComms and Energy Utilities Industry Skills Council Ltd trading as EE-Oz Training Standards is the Australian Government declared Industry Skills Council for the ElectroComms and EnergyUtilities industries. EE-Oz Training Standards is the body responsible for developing and maintaining the National Qualifications within the National Training Packages under its coverage. These include the Electrotechnology, Gas, Electricity Supply Industry - Transmission, Distribution and Rail and the Electricity Supply Industry - Generation Training Packages. EE-Oz Training Standards also works closely with other Industry Skills Councils (ISCs) to ensure all industries across Australia have a strong voice in the vocational education and training system. In relation to EE-Oz Training Standards the ElectroComms and EnergyUtilities industry covers occupations like operators, trades assistants, operatives, tradespersons, service persons, skilled and semi-skilled workers, technicians, technical officers, engineers and apprenticeships in the following areas:
Page 14 – Australian Power & Energy News
In the Moment Trina Skidmore, PROGRESSION HR & Training Most of us instinctively link cause and effect; we know that for every action there is a reaction. Our work environment highlights this every day. Something happens, someone says or does something and that triggers us to feel a certain way or to do a certain thing. Sometimes our responses are helpful and other times they make the situation worse. What if you had the ability to control your reactions, if you could find a way to remove the frustrations you experience caused by others? What if your response had a positive impact and you were seen as a skilled influencer? In this interesting and interactive seminar, you will develop the skills and knowledge needed to become that person! Presented by Trina Skidmore, Senior Facilitator, PROGRESSION HR & Training Trina is a highly skilled organisational development consultant and facilitator with over 20 years experience across a wide range of industries. Trina is renowned for her innovative, inspiring & business focused approach and will ensure you leave the seminar armed with new skills to improve your personal effectiveness. Lightning Safety Awareness Professor Leith Elder, Essential Energy A very popular and engaging seminar that always draws a crowd when conducted. It shows quite graphically the dangers of lightning, explains its mechanism and how it interacts with the electricity distribution system. It also provides survival tips for outdoor workers. Presented by Professor Leith Elder, Principle Engineer, Essential Energy Leith has been an Electrical Engineer for over 45 years and has designed building light and power installations, diesel generation stations, uninterruptible power supplies, frequency converters, distribution substations, zone substations, underground cable networks, overhead line networks, protection systems, earthing systems. He was recently appointed a Visiting Professorial Fellow at the University of Wollongong Emergency Preparedness Owen Plowman, Emergency Management NSW During the recent major floods and bushfires around Australia, including significant flooding in the Riverina Murray region, concerns were raised that some individuals hadn’t received enough information from emergency services, or were given information too late. So what goes on behind the scenes of an emergency or natural disaster, as the combat agencies - the State Emergency Service, Rural Fire Service etc - plan how to deal with the emergency itself and the people and property it will affect? The seminar explains how the various warning systems work, and why it’s important to listen to the emergency services Presented by Owen Plowman, District Emergency Management Officer, Emergency Management NSW Employed by NSW Police Force, Owen Plowman has been the District Emergency Management Officer (DEMO) for the twelve Riverina local government areas that are situated within South West Emergency Management District since 2003. Previous professional experience includes Fire & Rescue Services and Emergency & Safety Management within the Victorian Power Industry and several Australian Defence Force bases.
Fulton Industries now open in Queensland -
Visit us on Stand Nos. 25 and 42 to view the latest equipment used extensively by the Australian Power Utility Industry
11/04/11 2:50 PM
www.koppers.com
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Electrotechnology/ Communications
• Electronics • Electrical - including licensed electricians • Communications - including telecommunications - voice, data, video, information technology • Computer systems • Instrumentation • Lifts • Refrigeration and air conditioning • Renewable energy • Sustainable energy
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• Gas Supply Transmission and Distribution • Electricity Supply Transmission and Distribution, including Rail • Electricity Supply Generation
Small Scale Embedded Generation - The Journey So Far. Steve Gough, Essential Energy A discussion of Essential Energy’s experience with small scale generation applications and installation, focusing on some of the peculiarities uncovered to date with relation to rural installations and installers coming in from outside the area. The seminar will include questions from the floor and discuss issues including apparent voltage rise, lack of available capacity and hidden costs to customers. Presented by Steve Gough, Group Manager Technical Services, Essential Energy Steve has held a number of roles within Essential Energy during his 20 years with the organisation, in areas such as customer connection, contractor accreditation, network planning, system operations and subtransmission design construction and maintenance. He has also been actively involved in the approval processes for small scale generation within the company. Although no longer directly involved in the connection process for small renewables, Steve remains a subject matter expert within the company in these areas. Zero In on Shoulders Alison Thomas, Essential Energy Shoulders rank among the joints subject to the highest rates of injury, particularly for those who perform overhead work on a regular basis. This seminar will teach participants about the structure of the shoulder joint - how the joint works and what could go wrong. There will be an opportunity to test how good YOUR shoulders actually are and some basic exercises and stretches to help avoid problems. Presented by Alison Thomas, Senior Regional Health Coordinator, Essential Energy Alison is a qualified physiotherapist with over 30 years of clinical experience in injury management and treatment. She has been with Essential Energy for four years based in Lismore. She has a Masters Degree in Pain Management and has devised a program for prevention of shoulder injuries. Mate Helping Mate John Harper, Mate Helping Mate After experiencing depression himself, farmer Jon Harper began actively promoting awareness about the need for mental wellbeing in times of stress and anxiety. In 2006, he established a grassroots program, called Mate Helping Mate, based on social and creative self-help strategies for managing difficult rimes. The program recognises the importance of mateship.
Electricity Supply Industry Field Days Powering Safety in 2011 Hosted by Essential Energy
Wagga Wagga Showground 11-12 May 2011 ESS028_ESIFD_Centre_Spread_FA.indd 1
11/04/11 2:50 PM
Presented by John Harper, Farmer & Mental Health Advocate John Harper is a dryland wheat/sheep farmer from Stockinbingal. Stockinbingal lies between Temora and Cootamundra, NSW. Married with three daughters John’s simple goal in life was to be a better than average farmer and hand over the family farm in good condition to his children. Depression nearly destroyed John’s opportunity to fulfil this simple goal. Having no formal qualifications in mental health John speaks from personal experience. John experienced depression and spent some time reflecting on the impact and the remedies of poor mental well-being. He is convinced that simple philosophies and strategies, combined with an awareness of the importance of mental well-being, can prevent individuals sliding into depression. Metabolic Edge Matt O’Neill, Metabolic Jumpstart A healthy metabolism is essential to stay in good shape. Learn the facts and the myths surrounding metabolic rate. How does meal timing, movement, muscle mass and more, make a difference? Find out how to fire up your metabolic furnace to burn more calories, lower blood sugars and feel fantastic. Presented by Matt O’Neill, Chief Jumpstarter, Metabolic Jumpstart Matt is a leading Dietician and inspiring speaker. He is the regular Nutritionist on Chanel 7’s Sunrise and Morning Shows, with several hundred thousand viewers receiving his positive nutrition messages every week. Matt is a key influencer who will ensure that you are informed and energised to make positive, sustainable changes to their lifestyle. You thought you were managing risk – how does it compare to the way Army does it? Lieutenant Colonel Tony Mitchell Lieutenant Colonel Tony Mitchell will share his observations about what can go wrong with the application of risk management on the ground. He will detail his tips and tricks for making risk management real; worth the time and resulting in obvious benefits to users and others in the organisation. Presented by Lieutenant Colonel Tony Mitchell, Australian Army Lieutenant Colonel Tony Mitchell is a Project Director in the Army Operations Branch of Army Headquarters. He is responsible for the design and implementation of the Military Risk Management framework for Army. Tony has been one of the prime architects of the framework and is critically aware of ‘what could possibly go wrong’ with the application of risk management in large high risk organisations. He has been responsible for the review of risk management plans for a broad range of activities. He has provided risk management comment as an expert witness to a number of Military Boards of Inquiry into training fatalities and serious personnel injuries. So, he is also acutely aware of the problems that can occur with design and application of the risk management process at the user level.
For all enquiries or for our Please see our catalogue insert inside agents’ contact details, please contact us on this issue Ph: 1800 144 487 or Fax: (0064) 9 377 2136
Email: sales@powerhowse-electric.co.nz
Powerhowse Electric Ltd will be exhibiting Cable Hauling Equipment at our Outdoor Stand No. 6
Our display will consist of the smaller manageable items - Drum Jacks, Rope, Swivels, Cable Socks, Rollers, Corner and Curve Rollers, Winches, Brushes, Bellmouths, Duct Snakes. We will also be displaying our New Plastic Rollers and Samples of our New Aluminium Cross Arms
Visit us at stand 18 outside
ESI - 2011 Exhibitor by Stand Number Listing Note: ( ) indicates multiple adjacent stands but not adjacent numbers
Indoor Exhibitors - Exhibition Hall No. 1 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21.
Adapt Australia Tex Onsite Prysmian Cables & Systems Life & Rescue International Life & Rescue International Mobile Industrial Workwear Pacific Test Equipment Barrier Signs CATU CATU Sicame Australia Sicame Australia Safety Supply Solutions Specialised Force Specialised Force SebaKMT AUS Elect. Dist. Sols. Kaon Electric AEM Australia AEM Australia Thew & McCann Intertech Engineering
43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49.
Sperian Protection Enertel MSS Power Systems Blackwoods Blackwoods JBS JBS
Exhibition Hall No. 2
50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56.
DT Jointing Solutions Rescue 1 Rocla Pipeline Training Australia EE-Oz Training Standards MSA Australia Tappat Engineering
Outdoor Exhibitors
1. 2. 3. 4.
Dulhunty Poles Parksafe Hylec Energy Solutions The Energy Network
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22. Intertech Engineering 23. Britech 24. Britech 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42.
Fulton Industries Aust. (42) KD Fisher & Co / Lovink Baseline Training & Consulting Trio Smartcal Aeropower Australmold Olex Australia Protector Alsafe Protector Alsafe CABAC CABAC Dulhunty Power General Cables Australia AK Power Solutions Preformed Line Products Dial Before You Dig SEL Fulton Industries Aust. (25)
Outdoor Exhibitors (Cont.) 5. 6. 7. 8. 11. 12. 13. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26.
Essential Energy Powerhowse Electric Nationwide Off Road Truck Sale Aggreko NGK Stanger Mobile Industrial Workwear Exacter & Pole Foundations Balmoral Engineering Hilti ERICO MV Technology Solutions Schneider Electric Paul-Tec Security Boom Sherring Essential Energy Essential Energy Milford Industries Koppers Wood Products TE Connectivity
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Aeropower
Aeropower would like to invite the Electrical Industry to view our Patrol and Inspection Process Presentation at the 2011 ESI Field Days in Wagga. Aeropower will have available our new Asset Management Solutions Software which provides a Management Package that will support power companies in the management of their overhead assets, in accordance with world’s best practice. After 20 years of working within the wire environment, Aeropower’s experience maintains that line hardware failures occur from items which cannot be easily identified from a general patrol. Our inspection process of methodically examining the line hardware will allow asset managers to determine their future budget, not only for hardware, but also for resources. We look forward to you visiting Aeropower at Stand 29 on the 11th and 12th of May.
See the Latest New & Innovative Instrumentation & Test Equipment VISIT US ON STAND NO. 7
Pacific Test Equipment Pty Ltd Phone: (02) 9659 2300
Email: sales@pacifictest.com.au www.pacifictest.com.au Australian Power & Energy News – Page 15
New Products, Equipment & New Technology
ON DISPLAY!
At ESI Field Days
>>>
11th-12th May 2011
Condition based monitoring (CBM) What is Condition Based Monitoring (CBM)? T
HIS IS maintenance that is planned based on the condition of the cable and accessories. The two main advantages of the CBM-strategy compared with the EBM (Event Based Maintenance) and RBM (Regular Based Maintenance) strategies are: • Maintenance can be effectively planned. • Average end of life-time of the cable + accessories is extended. CBM strategy is being driven by the fact that a lot of power companies are now either privatised or corporatised. As such there is a greater restriction in available funds for simply replacing cables by age. Governments are implementing targets and legislation for power companies where there are now penalties to be paid to consumers for non-delivered services. There are other driving forces behind CBM such as the fact that it will extend the service life of the cable itself and all the assets connected to it. It can be effectively used for commissioning testing and it will decrease the number of breakdowns. As an asset owner how do you check that your appointed contractor has completed the underground installation effectively? Can you rely on a simple proving test or will the cable break down soon after commissioning? If you conduct non-destructive tests prior to commissioning and prior to signing off with the contractor, you will avoid unnecessary problems and disruptions. More importantly you will have the piece of mind of making sure the new installation passes the test prior to paying the contractor. The most important part of the CBM is the diagnostics. Using diagnostics the condition of the cable can be assessed and maintenance actions scheduled accordingly.
SebaKMT has the tools you need to be able to implement a successful CBM strategy. You will need to follow some simple steps for after laying commissioning. Step 1 Sheath testing to check the cable has been laid correctly. Step 2 VLF Testing to check if the cable has insulation failures. Step 3 PD testing local diagnosis, testing installation quality and accessories. The following covers the condition monitoring side. Step 1 VLF Testing/ Sheath Fault testing looking for weak spots in aged cable. Preventing unplanned outages. Step 2a Local diagnosis PD testing identifying weak spots in cable caused by ageing, construction or corrosion. Step 2b Integral diagnosis VLF Tan Delta & CDS. Monitoring degradation of the cable using integral diagnosis. SebaKMT has VLF testers utilising the very effective cosine squarewave technology ranging from 20kVrms to 80kVrms. This enables testing from 11kV cables to 66kV up to 3U0. If your application requires portability the new VLF Sinus 34kV may be the answer. This unit is a sine wave test system for medium voltage cables and weighs only 25kg. The Partial discharge range covers from 28kv to 350kV test systems. The OWTS range of PD testers have proved to be very popular with a number of companies. There are some very interesting case studies that can be provided. This combined with the new online PD testing can give you some very powerful tools for monitoring the condition of your network without inconveniencing the customers. In the end this is what it is all about. SebaKMT has just launched their newest offering for CBM management. This is the LPD Monitor for online PD condition monitoring.
VLF CR 40kV Tester
A VLF CR 60kV being used on an offshore oil rig.
You can see more at stand 16 at the Wagga ESI Fields Days May 11 & 12 or www.sebakmtaus.com or call 02 9972 9244.
The new OWTS 350kV PD Tester for transmission lines.
Page 16 - Australian Power & Energy News
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Perth 08 9467 5744 Fax 02 9972 9433 Email sales@sebakmtaus.com
Australian Power & Energy News - Page 17
New Products, Equipment & New Technology
ON DISPLAY!
At ESI Field Days
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An Unmistakeable Force in the Power Sector
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OR most, outside the world of electricity transmission and distribution, the name Specialised Force may not be that significant, but you would be hard pressed to find a power utility or a major electrical contractor that doesn’t use equipment or tools supplied by this dynamic company. Specialised Force is Australia’s leading supplier of hydraulic tools and equipment to utilities within the power generation sector and the company continues to expand its sphere of influence throughout the country.
Since the company was established in Sydney in 1982, Specialised Force has enjoyed dramatic operational expansion and huge sales growth. From the outset the company embarked on a strict product strategy that ensured that any piece of equipment it supplied would be of the highest quality and in the operation of its services, both in terms of sales and after sales support, it would be highly professional and ‘user friendly’. Specialised Force didn’t waste any time in applying that strategy and from its Sydney Headquarters soon established branches across the nation. The company now has branch offices in Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Townsville and Perth. Specialised Force also runs an expansive distribution network covering most other areas throughout Australia. Essentially, the company is a distributor for a range of hydraulic tools and equipment specifically for power utilities and for all electrical contracting applications. Many of the leading brand name products that the company provides are exclusive to Specialised Force. The extensive range of products distributed by the company includes hydraulic jacking equipment; benders and cutters for pipes and tubes; battery tools; rail maintenance and construction equipment; power line stringing equipment; electrical contractor tools; cable
pulling equipment; hydraulic hole punches; busbar fabrication equipment and torque tools. However, while the list of products is endless there is a lot more to the company’s operational reach. Specialised Force also provides a maintenance service which includes in-house and mobile testing for hydraulic equipment and batteries and has specific expertise in the supply and application of high-pressure hydraulics to rated pressures of 40,000 PSI (2800 Bar). Specialised Force has extensive knowledge and experience of most hydraulic applications from the supply of small pump and ram sets, through to the design and supply of large jacking systems for specific applications. This comprehensive expertise is one of the reasons why the company applies a ‘complete system’ approach to hydraulics and carefully matches components to ensure efficient and safe operation of equipment. Specialised Force is also a major supplier of specific tools related to industrial electrical contracting, railway construction and maintenance, cable installation applications, offshore oil and gas, mining industry and the Petro Chemical sector. Specialised Force will highlight and demonstrate a range of its products at the Electricity Supply Industry (ESI) Field Days at the Wagga Wagga Showground on May 11th and 12th. Included in the display will be the new Hitool-NGK Wire and Cable Grips from Japan. These are the lightest and most versatile pulling grips available and the grips employ the latest technology to increase ‘jaw life’. Also on show will be the latest range of Dynamometers and Web Strap Pullers. For more information about Specialised Force check out the company’s website: www.specialisedforce.com.au
11th-12th May 2011
BOOM Sherrin Introduces Enhanced Glove and Barrier Fleet
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OOM Sherrin, Australia’s leading supplier of tailored elevated work platform (EWP) solutions, is pleased to announce plans for the introduction of an upgrade to their 18m Glove and Barrier travel tower fleet. BOOM Sherrin is partnering with a specialised design engineer and a fibre composites manufacturer to enhance the current lightweight, manoeuvrable platform. The end product is a next-generation 18m Glove and Barrier travel tower with robust structural integrity and reliable electrical insulation properties that will continue to provide confidence to operators in the field. The enhanced units are ideal for LV line network construction and maintenance applications as well as general works in close proximity to power lines. BOOM Sherrin has commissioned a highly experienced EWP design engineer to design the upgrade to the tower units and Marky Industries has been appointed to develop a build methodology and construct the improved segments. Marky Industries is a composite specialist with over thirty years experience in a diverse range of industries, and brings a proven track record to the boom set manufacturing process. Outwardly the new towers maintain existing symmetry throughout the boom set although subtle enhancements have been applied to the lower boom casing (pictured). Internally the similarities end. The enhanced Glove and Barrier tower carries a new structural fibreglass design for boom components with cross sections that are either uniform or non-uniform. Testing of the new boom set prototype has confirmed expectations. The fly boom comfortably exceeds the 3.51 tonne requirement during load bearing tests and the unit has passed all other load, stability and electrical acceptance testing as per AS2550. Once design registration processes are completed BOOM Sherrin will offer select customers an initial trial before releasing the fleet to the rest of the market.
Above: The confidence inspiring lower boom section of BOOM Sherrin’s enhanced 18m Glove and Barrier travel tower
The enhanced 18m Glove and Barrier towers are a demonstration of BOOM Sherrin’s commitment to continual equipment reliability and safety system improvements, and their ability to provide a client-partnered solution to the utilities industry. To see the new units and understand why BOOM Sherrin is more than just an EWP supplier, please drop by the BOOM Sherrin stand (Outdoor Exhibits Area 2, Site 21). For more information on how BOOM Sherrin can assist you with your EWP requirements contact your nearest branch on 136 132 or visit www.boomsherrin.com.au. For major account enquiries please contact Greg Thompson on 07 3868 6888 or gthompson@boomsherrin.com.au
Tailored EWP solutions for the utilities industry Enhanced Travel Towers for demanding conditions Industry Leading Safe Practise On-site Project Scope Assessment & Site Safety Analysis In-house Maintenance & Technical Expertise Packaged Lifting & EWP Solutions Highly Trained Experienced Operators 24-7 Sales & Service Support
To find out more visit:
www.boomsherrin.com.au
Page 18 - Australian Power & Energy News
New Products, Equipment & New Technology
ON DISPLAY!
At ESI Field Days
>>>
11th-12th May 2011
Dulhunty Power ‘gets smart’ meter technology I
T WAS a significant win for Dulhunty Power Ltd when European giant, Iskraemeco recently appointed the company as its product distributor for the Territories of Australia and New Zealand. Iskraemeco have a long and successful history in developing a comprehensive range of devices and systems for electric and energy measurement dating back to 1945. The company’s innovative smart meter technology is well proven and second to none. In fact Iskraemeco has sold over 40 million electricity measuring devices internationally and is a company clearly situated at the forefront as a specialist in electricity measurement and metering. In choosing Dulhunty Power as their exclusive Australian and New Zealand distributor, Iskraemeco has also confirmed Dulhunty’s standing and reputation in Australia as a leading supplier of quality electricity transmission and distribution products. It also confirms Iskraemeco’s faith in Dulhunty’s ability as a first class marketing specialist in the Asian region. The appointment will provide Dulhunty Power with the ideal extension to their product mix. It will also enable the company to complement its existing relationships with electricity providers by assisting utilities in their response to the plight that consumers face in dealing with increasing electricity charges. Dulhunty Power Group General Manager, Malcolm Munro has always been a fan of smart meter technology but now has one installed in his home. “I had never realized just how effective they could be in reducing domestic consumption until I used one myself. Knowing exactly when the flow of electricity is most cost effective is a huge advantage in reducing the size of your electricity bill. Now that we can supply the full range of Iskraemeco’s superior metering products, not only for residential use but for commercial and industrial use, means we can provide
that technological benefit through our utility clients to cover the whole process of electricity distribution. It’s an extremely exciting time for our company.” According to Mr. Munro, the complete Iskraemeco product range will be fully integrated into the company’s distribution strategy throughout Australia and New Zealand. Dulhunty Power will utilize the company’s existing offices and warehouse with a new warehouse about to open in Western Australia. Dulhunty will also extend its current NATA Mechanical Laboratory in its Sydney facility to include a Meter Testing Laboratory. The company will also have access to the vast technical resources and expertise available through their relationship with Iskraemeco. This will give Dulhunty Power greater flexibility in providing value added or additional services to the metering market in Australia and New Zealand. Dulhunty Power’s association with a leading design and development manufacturer such as Iskraemeco comes as no surprise. Dulhunty’s attention as a quality manufacturer and supplier has always been focused on innovation and the company has never lacked initiative in seizing the day. Over the last 20 years Dulhunty Power has continued to establish its credentials and is now firmly entrenched as a respected manufacturer and supplier of quality electricity transmission and distribution products globally. The company has also broadened its operational base with manufacturing plants in Australia , China, Thailand and Malaysia, as well as sales offices in New Zealand (Auckland), North America and Hong Kong. The broad expanse of Dulhunty’s sphere of operation provides the ideal springboard for overall product research and for identifying the needs of the global electricity market. This in turn enables the company to consistently expand its own product range to ensure that
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any products the company sells always remain on the cutting edge of developments within the electricity sector. Through its own research and development program Dulhunty Power is also ideally placed to manufacture its own branded product range to both utilities and contractors throughout Australia, New Zealand, China, and the Asia Pacific region. The advantage of having its China and Thai operations means it can also supply fittings and products for numerous European and American companies involved in the electricity transmission and distribution sector. Dulhunty Power has invested heavily in developing products and solutions for Aeolian vibration and along the way the company has established a unique market presence in the development of its own range of vibration control products, Helixon product, overhead line fittings and ABC fittings. Dulhunty is now regarded globally as an expert in the field, due to its significant and accrued technical knowhow in measuring and resolving vibration control problems in transmission lines. The Iskraemeco connection provides a new and vital dimension to the Dulhunty Power product range and serves to emphasise the continuation of this exciting phase in the company’s continued growth. The new range of Iskraemeco meters feature all the essential requirements for the Australian and New Zealand markets including; Compact Meter cases, Anti Fraud protection, Single wire, two element metering and two way communications. On top of these features the Iskraemeco range of meters provide for fast and easy installation.
Dulhunty Power will feature the exciting Iskraemeco range of metering products at Stand 36 during the 2011 Electricity Supply Industry (ESI) Field Days at the Wagga Wagga Showgrounds on May 11th and 12th.
dulhunty power “Gets Smart Metering Technology”
Iskraemeco produce a superior range of smart meters for domestic applications as well as a full range of meters for Industrial and Commercial applications. Visit Dulhunty Power at the 2011 Elec Supply Industry Fitricity eld Day Hosted by Essential Energy Wagga Wagga Showground Stand 36
Helixon Helical Products Distribution & Transmission Line Hardware Smart Meters Fault Indicators Cable Height Meters
High Temperature Conductors Toughened Glass, Porcelain & Composite Insulators Vibration Dampers Conductor Sag Measuring Devices Corona Cameras
w w w.dulhunt ypower.com Phone: +61 2 9870 7277 | Fax: +61 2 9870 7299 | Unit 2/35 Waterloo Road | Nth Ryde, NSW Australia 2113 Australian Power & Energy News - Page 19
Dulhunty Titan Poles on the Move! Exciting Times Ahead for the Industry with New Concept Pole
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HIS exciting new concept in poles is set to hit the road in the next few weeks, delivering the first shipment of this innovative product to supply authorities around Australia.
The Dulhunty Titan Pole is an engineered cement pole with fibre reinforcement and is a new product to the Australia Electricity Supply Industry. However, the Titan Pole, using this technology, has been successfully manufactured in the USA by Dulhunty Poles affiliate, Composite Materials Technology (CMT) for some years. Dulhunty Poles Pty Ltd now owns the exclusive licence to supply Australasia from their manufacturing base near Geelong in Victoria.
• • • • • • • • • •
Major features of this new pole are : Burn Proof Termite Proof Corrosion Proof Not effected by spalling Essentially non conductive Lightweight Low carbon footprint Embedded RFID inspection record Pre-drilled to customers design or can be drilled in the field Expected 70+ years useful life.
Dulhunty Titan poles are the only nonwood pole to successfully undergo the ENA Pole Fire Test achieving the top level rating of ‘Excellent’.
Leakage Current [mA]
Vision to the future looks impressive for the Dulhunty Titan Pole with serious interest coming in from Australian supply authorities and from as far away as French Polynesia and Pakistan. It is also possible that the Australian
plant will manufacture and supply longer length poles back to the USA electricity supply industry market.
The poles have extremely low maintenance requirements with inspection restricted to a visual examination for any physical damage caused by motor vehicles and the like, and completely eliminating the use of potentially harmful preservation and remedial treatment chemicals. This is a big win for the environment. During the rigorous and wide-ranging testing schedule, the Dulhunty Titan Pole has proved far superior to other established pole types on all occasions. This included the major criteria of conductivity / leakage current where it was revealed leakage currents are demonstrably less than that for spotted gum hardwood poles. This eliminates the need for earthing. Carbon footprint analysis demonstrated the Titan Dulhunty Pole has the best ‘whole of life’ result compared with all other types of power poles commonly used in Australia. The upcoming NSW ESI Field Days at Wagga in May this year, will be the first major public outing for this new concept pole. The lightweight feature of the pole makes it the only choice suitable for rough terrain where the pole transport & installation can be carried out with a small helicopter - as will be demonstrated at these Field Days.
Volts [kV]
Standard Titan pole sizes at this stage are from 9.5m up to and including 14m and in load ratings from 8kN up to 24kN (ultimate load). However, being an engineered product the configurations are virtually endless. This is evident with the recent decision to consider the design and manufacture of a cyclone class pole for Australia’s north – no other pole type can consider this sort of challenge while offering the light weight and other advantages of the Titan pole.
Comparison of Titan pole with Spotted Gum (Sokolowsksi et al, AUPEC 08)
To discuss the product further, please call the Dulhunty Poles team on 03 5248 1661.
Power upgrade for Bondi community
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new major electricity substation will be built in the eastern suburbs to help power more than 23,000 homes and businesses around one of Australia’s most iconic beaches and tourist destinations. The $36 million architect-designed substation will be built next to the existing EnergyAustralia Waverley zone substation at Anglesea Street in Bondi and supply power to Bellevue Hill, Bondi, Waverley and Double Bay. EnergyAustralia General Manager Engineering Trevor Armstrong said the existing substation had served the community but was now approaching the time for replacement. “The existing substation has been operating at this site for more than 50 years,” Mr Armstrong said. “We want to make sure the community gets the chance to learn about the project, ask questions and seek input into how it will blend in with the character of their neighbourhood.” Two concept sketches were presented to the local community during information displays at the Waverley Council Chambers on Tuesday 8 February and Wednesday 9 February. “It has received several major upgrades but it is now approaching the time when it needs to be replaced with a modern enclosed facility. “Peak demand for power across the Bondi area is expected to increase by about 5.5 per cent over the next five years. “As well as replacing the existing Waverley substation, this new facility will cater for this growing demand.” A number of potential sites have been considered to build the new substation, involving technical investigations and a review of community and environmental impacts. “The new facility will meet all planning requirements as well as all relevant health and safety standards,” Mr Armstrong said. Crews will also replace five existing 33,000 Volt underground cables with two 132,000 Volt underground cables. The replacement zone substation will not produce any additional noise and is expected to start supplying electricity to the local community around 2013.
We’re the High Voltage and Substation Switching training experts EsiTrain courses ensure your staff are equipped with: skills to work safely in a substation environment skills to operate, test and earth substation overhead and underground switchgear an understanding of the high voltage network EsiTrain offer nationally accredited training, as well as customised training solutions and consultancy services.
Page 20 - Australian Power & Energy News
Our quality training has helped build business for utility companies, railways, the mining sector and heavy industry across Australia, New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific region. Contact EsiTrain today on (07) 3000 1248 or visit www.energex.com.au
Concrete poles boost power to Melbourne’s booming southeast
Cranbourne Terminal Station
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ICTORIAN energy supplier SP AusNet has boosted its service to the growing region southeast of Melbourne with a new 66kV line at Cranbourne, supported on Rocla® spun concrete power poles. The 7km double circuit line, which will reinforce the existing distribution network, is part of a general upgrade to meet forecast load increases in the rapidly developing region. Rocla supplied 36 poles ranging in height from 18.5m to 22m, plus two special sectional poles of 33m height for clearance over a playing field. Rocla® concrete poles provide SP AusNet with a standard product delivering reliable load ratings and a predictable service life. The poles can also be supplied with all required hardware fittings built in during manufacture. SP AusNet said that Rocla provided good technical support and delivered the poles punctually, allowing the project to be completed on schedule.
Glen Innes to Inverell Power Line Project - nearing completion
Above and below: Crew members erecting poles on the Glen Innes to Inverell Project
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ransGrid has commenced the final phase of construction on a new $25 million high voltage power line connecting Glen Innes and Inverell. TransGrid’s Senior Project Manager Mr Dany Gittani said the Glen Innes to Inverell Project is essential to ensure the reliability of the electricity network supplying the Northern Tablelands. “The project involves the replacement of 55km of existing power line and the construction of 11km of new high capacity transmission line between Glen Innes and Inverell,” Mr Gittani said.
“The 11km section of new power line has been completed and TransGrid has started rebuilding the existing transmission line,” he said. Upon completion of the project, Glen Innes and Inverell will have an additional high voltage link connecting them to the NSW grid, as well as a second connection between the existing Essential Energy and TransGrid Substations at Glen Innes. “By building a high voltage link between Glen Innes and Inverell, we are improving supply for residential and commercial customers in the area,” said Mr Gittani. “Crews are working at both the Inverell and Glen Innes sections line simultaneously, with work scheduled for completion in mid 2010,” he said. Construction works began in Glen Innes during February 2010 and is expected to be completed in July 2011. The project is part of a larger plan to strengthen the north west of TransGrid’s transmission network, following the completion of TransGrid’s new substation at Glen Innes in 2007.
Australian Power & Energy News - Page 21
Hydro Tasmania to increase Cataract Gorge flow
H
YDRO TASMANIA plans to increase the base environmental flow through the Cataract Gorge.
However, the decision is subject to the necessary threatened species permit from the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and the Environment (DPIPWE). Following a two-year review, Hydro Tasmania has agreed to increase the base flow from 1.5 cubic metres per second (cumecs) to 2.5 cumecs. The decision follows extensive investigations and consultation with stakeholders and is believed to provide the best balance of social, economic and environmental issues around the Gorge. The proposed increase is nearly double the flow released since 2003 and around six times the flow Hydro Tasmania is obliged to release under its water licence. A flow of 2.5 cumecs will provide additional aquatic habitat area but does reduce the habitat for some threatened plant species. This is why a threatened species permit is required. Any flow higher than 2.5 cumecs would result in the loss of more threatened flora. The increased flow will improve the aesthetic conditions in the Gorge while leaving open future options for the development of Duck Reach power station. Hydro Tasmania Manager Business Sustainability Andrew Scanlon said the review conducted over the past two years included scientific flora and fauna studies, and visual assessments using different flow scenarios. “An important component of the review was stakeholder liaison and consultation to identify issues and views that needed to be considered,” Mr Scanlon. “Hydro Tasmania recognises the Gorge environmental flow is a significant issue for many people and we wanted to ensure these
views were included in our review. “We believe this decision creates the right balance between social, ,economic, and environmental considerations, and is good news for Launceston and the Cataract Gorge.” “The increase also represents an additional cost to our business of at least $600,000 per annum in lost electricity generation. Mr Scanlon said the Launceston City Council had been advised of the decision and Hydro Tasmania would shortly be meeting with council representatives to discuss the outcome of the review in detail.
Wembley Downs network upgrades to improve power reliability
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ESTERN POWERhas just completed a $13 million network expansion project in Wembley Downs to improve power reliability and ensure increasing power demands are met.
Background • Trevallyn Power Station was commissioned in 1955 • Hydro Tasmania has provided an environmental release down the lower South Esk River through Cataract Gorge for 56 years. • The Water Act 1957 specified a flow of 0.425 cubic metres per second and this requirement was carried over into Hydro Tasmania’s water licence. • In 2003, Hydro Tasmania more than trebled the flow voluntarily to 1.5 cumecs to enhance suitable habitats for biota and recreational amenity of the site.
RIGGING CONSTRUCTION PTY LTD
Western Power Transmission Group Manager Mehdi Toufan said the work had been undertaken to ensure electricity supplies would continue to sustain the growing customer demands and future developments in the area. “Western Power’s long term forecasting recognised that the existing substation would soon be nearing capacity, and the most viable option was to increase the capacity at the Wembley Downs substation,” Mr Toufan said. “The expansion project started in 2007 with works staggered over time in order to ensure customers would not experience any power
interruptions while work was undertaken. “This was a complicated project involving both the transmission and distribution areas of Western Power. “Work included the replacement of two larger transformers and upgrading power capacity on the distribution network from 6.6kV to 11 kV. “This expansion will ensure our customers have less risk of power interruption,” he said. Western Power is now completing the final aspects of the substation upgrade which includes re-vegetation and other visual improvements.
Specialises in all Erection and Maintenance of Telecommunication Radio Towers High Voltage Power Lines Railway Overhead Wire Industrial Painting and Rigging Construction Other Services Include:• • Pre-assembly of Towers • Erection of Towers • Stringing and associated works • Termination Tension Towers • Running of Conductors and Landing Spans on the sub-sections
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info@riggingconstruction.com.au www.riggingconstruction.com.au
Page 22 - Australian Power & Energy News
Malaga substation expansion project
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estern Power has just completed a $4.8 million expansion at its Malaga substation to improve power reliability and ensure that increasing power demands are met.
Western Power Transmission Group Manager Mehdi Toufan said the work had been undertaken to ensure electricity supplies would continue to sustain the growing customer demands and future developments in the area. “Western Power’s long term forecasting recognised that the existing substation would soon be nearing capacity, and expanding the current substation was identified as the best option,” Mr Toufan said. “This work includes the installation of
a third 132/22 kV transformer and 22kV switchboard. “The Malaga area has a large business and industrial demographic so this was an important consideration when considering an expansion solution,” Mr Toufan said. “This expansion will ensure that the many commercial customers have less risk of power interruption,” he said. Construction work started on the Beach Road substation in January 2010 and the new facilities have been completed ahead of the schedule
Western Power silicone pole-top program W
Outage plans ramp up
ESTERN POWER has invested $2.1 million to silicone coat 11,459 pole tops throughout Wanneroo, Rockingham, Forrestfield, Fremantle and Geraldton, with all work expected to be completed by June this year. Above, LYP Major Projects personell with Leighton employees during a recent scope review
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Western Power Project Manager Marcel Knuffel said silicone coating is one effective method used by Western Power to protect insulators on the top of poles from salt and dust build up. “Silicone is applied as a thick liquid spray and it settles to a gel-like consistency on the pole top,” Mr Knuffel said. “The silicone absorbs the moisture, dust and pollution on pole top insulators. “Before the insulators are sprayed with silicone, they are washed and cleaned of any pollutants and build-up,” Mr Knuffel said.
“This is a very involved process as crews access the pole tops on insulated elevated platforms. “The coating schedule is also weather dependent due to the fact that silicone cannot be applied to poles in very wet or windy conditions,” Mr Knuffel said. “Silicone coating is an important part of the maintenance of Western Power’s 322,000 square kilometre network of lines. “Western Power takes every precaution to reduce the risk of faults occurring on its assets and ensure it maintains a safe and reliable network. “We have been silicone coating for seven years now and through the use of strategies like this, Western Power has reduced fault incidents significantly,” Mr Knuffel said. On average Western Power silicone coats around 15,000 pole tops each year. This year’s silicone-coating program started in December 2010 with 391 poles already completed in Kalbarri.
ITH less than seven weeks until the start of the Unit Two Major Outage pre-outage preparation is ramping up for this significant project. Major Projects Manager, James Sammut said over the last few months work has progressed on the formation of contracts and the refinement of the outage scope. “All major contracts are now in place and attention has moved to other pre-outage activities including the preparation of safety plans, quality plans, re-commissioning plans, and site plans to accommodate more than 500 outage personnel expected during the peak of activity,” James said. The major projects group has also been working closely with the procurement group to source more than 1000 line items (valued at over $7.5 million) required for the outage, some of which were ordered more than two years ago. Supply Chain Manager, Peter Linton, said the group has spent many hours sourcing equipment for this important project and effective communication between the different groups has been imperative. “The engineering, maintenance and procurement groups all have important roles to perform in ensuring this task is completed successfully. The warehouse group is currently packaging up work scopes in preparation for hand-over to the respective contractor, so there is a lot of activity leading up to the start date,”
Peter said. Engineering Manager, Colin Young said over the next few weeks a number of key outage events are planned, including the outage alignment day and launch of the outage safety awareness scheme (SAS). “The outage alignment day is designed to ensure all of the major outage participants are briefed on the purpose, objectives, and mechanics of the outage. It’s an important day. We launch the outage execution plan and go over the details of the outage with the aim of placing all the participants on a common footing,” Colin said. A key part of outage safety management is the safety awareness scheme (SAS). As its name implies, the SAS is designed to raise safety awareness in the lead up to and during the outage. Safe behaviour is rewarded in the form of donations that build over the period of the project and go to nominated community groups. Over the next few weeks outage participants will be asked to nominate their preferred local SAS recipients and the top three or four nominations that meet the criteria will be selected. “With the ICMS taking place as part of the Unit Two outage, this will be the most complex project ever undertaken at Loy Yang Power. The co-ordinated effort of all our resources will be required over the remaining time to prepare us for this task,” Colin said.
Testo 340 Flue Gas Analyser for Diesel Emission Testing A digital gas analyser for mine site testing of diesel engine exhaust emissions
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NCREASING fuel costs are necessitating the need for efficiency monitoring by means of emission measurements. The testo 340 is an ideal instrument to measure diesel engine exhaust emissions as it results in measurement being easier, faster and more flexible in the future. The testo 340 can be operated with one hand offering optimum handling for spot measurements. housing protects the instrument from impact in The digital flue gas analyser testo 340 has rough day-to-day use. measuring range extension for all sensors. The Testo 340 is the ideal tool for service, It allows the user to carry out measurements maintenance and inspections. It can also be used even at high gas concentrations. The measuring for commissioning as well as measurements for instrument is fitted with an O2 measuring cell monitoring purposes on: as standard. Three further toxic sensors (CO, - Industrial Engines COlow, NO, NOlow, NO2 or SO2) can be - Industrial Burners individually configured at any time, in order to - Gas turbines adapt the testo 340 optimally to the respective - Thermal process systems measurement task. The sensor can be exchanged For more information on the testo 340 please directly by the user, minimising service times. contact one of our friendly sales engineers on The differential pressure and flow measurement (03) 8761 6108. is now integrated as a standard in the testo 340. The integrated rubber skin of the instrument
Australian Power & Energy News - Page 23
One of Australia’s biggest solar farms underway
Fuel deliveries to flooded remote NT communities
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ONSTRUCTION of a 1MW solar farm is underway in the outback desert of the Northern Territory.
Above: Identical technology in use in Marble Bar, Western Australia. Photo courtesy of Horizon Power
Power and Water Corporation recently signed an historic agreement to purchase power from a 1MW solar system in Alice Springs for the next 20 years. The Uterne power station, meaning ‘bright sunny day’ in the local Arrente language will be the largest tracking solar power system in Australia when it is completed later this year. To be installed on four hectares on the southern outskirts of Alice Springs; the solar power station will consist of 3,048 ultra-efficient SunPower mono-crystalline panels or flat plate solar panels. Each 318 watt module will be mounted on a custom designed tracker that will follow the sun as it crosses over the sky. Power and Water Manager Sustainable Energy Trevor Horman said the Corporation had long supported renewable energy development and was pleased to be part of the development. “We have worked to integrate small solar systems into the electricity grid in six remote communities going back many years and we have three more small solar systems under construction,” he said. “We work to integrate these intermittent sources into our electricity systems and already we see the impact that privatelyowned solar power has on the Alice Springs power system.” The 1MW system could power 288 average homes or supply 10 per cent GreenPower to 2,750 Alice Springs homes. The Uterne Power station will be developed in partnership with Alice Solar City and SunPower Corporation, the $6.6 million power station is supported with $3.3 million in funding from the Australian Government as part of its $94 million Solar Cities program. Alice Springs is one of seven solar cities around Australia The Alice Solar City project is designed to explore how solar power, energy
efficient technologies and new approaches to electricity supply and pricing can encourage the residents of Alice Springs to reduce their energy use and develop a sustainable energy future. Alice Springs has embraced the Alice Solar City project, with considerable private investment in solar. Key projects include: 450 rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems; a 250kW PV system at Alice Springs Airport; and a 300kW PV system at Crowne Plaza Alice Springs. Alice Solar City General Manager Brian Elmer says that the Uterne Solar Power Station will be the fourth large scale iconic solar project for the town. “The Uterne power station will further add to the growing national and international reputation of Alice Springs as a leader in the use of solar technology.” “To date, we have seen just over 20 per cent of Alice Springs households engage with the Alice Solar City program through energy surveys, and householders have taken advantage of $3.64 million worth of incentive vouchers to undertake solar and energy efficiency measures in their homes.” “Nearly 450 homeowners in Alice Springs have purchased rooftop photovoltaic systems in the last three years to partially power their home with solar, but not everyone can do this,” Mr Horman said. “People living in rented accommodation usually are not in a position to install solar panels due to short term leases, etc.” “This 1MW system gives everyone – particularly the half of our Alice Springs customers who are renting – the opportunity to invest by purchasing GreenPower.” Alice Springs is blessed with an average of 9.6 sunshine hours each day of the year. It has 200 clear days and only 63 cloudy days. As a result very good performance is available from solar power stations in Central Australia.
Above: Identical technology in use in Marble Bar, Western Australia. Photo courtesy of Horizon Power Page 24 - Australian Power & Energy News
ower and Water Corporation provides electricity, water and sewerage services to some 80,000 customers across the Northern Territory – an area of more than 1.3 million square kilometres.
Above: Remote Operations Mechanical Service Coordinators Bill Blain and Jim Barker
From the tropics of the north to the deserts of Central Australia, nearly 1,000 staff members work in varied and often extreme environments to maintain services to customers. Heavy and persistent rains have resulted in a tremendous Wet Season across the whole Northern Territory. In recent months, many Territory roads have either been impassable or are subject to weight restrictions having endured extensive above average rainfall - the result has been an interruption to many regular delivery schedules, including fuel to remote communities for electricity generation. During this period Power and Water has been working on priority delivery for a number of areas including Engawala (Alcoota) (200kms North East Alice Springs), Ampilatwatja (Ammaroo) (312km North East Alice Springs), Yuendumu (290km North West Alice Springs), Altitjere (Harts Range) (214km North East Alice Springs). Power and Water organises delivery of fuel to 60 remote power stations throughout the year, resulting in a combined travel distance of 300,000kms. The extraordinary wet weather has posed challenges but Remote Operations Mechanical Service Coordinators Bill Blain and Jim Barker recently coordinated an emergency fuel transfer to deliver supplies to Epenarra. The community of Wutunugurra (Epenarra) is around 210km south-east of
Tennant Creek by road, 120km of which is unsealed. It is located on the western side of the Frew River and is home to approximately 230 residents. With heavy rains across the Barkly Region, the road to Epenarra was flooded and impossible for fuel road trains to access. A truck was able to deliver the fuel in 205 litre (44 gallon) drums to Wauchope; a roadhouse located around 140km away on the Stuart Highway. The Remote Operations Mechanical Service Coordinators organised for the delivery of 22,000 litres into the community, transporting much of that in drums from Wauchope using four-wheel drive utes with tandem trailers. The road was so bad in parts, that it took the two around 10 to 11 hours to complete the 280km round trip from Wauchope to Epenarra. One of the rivers they had to negotiate was around 15 metres across and about one metre deep. Many remote communities still rely on distillate as a fuel source for generation. Gradually, across some communities, this is being replaced by alternatives including solar power but diesel generation will be maintained in the interim.
Above right: Fuel delivery to Engawala community (190km NE Alice Springs) and Ongeva Creek - road washed out up to 1m
Jemena makes natural gas a natural for home owners
Above: Mr Peter Harcus, Jemena’s Manager Gas Network Development
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ETER HARCUS, Jemena’s Manager Gas Network Development, has detailed the secrets of the major successes of the Natural Gas, Natural Choice campaign in New South Wales. He was speaking at FutureGas, the annual Australian gas conference and exhibition, held in Brisbane in March. “In New South Wales, every home is connected to electricity from day one but the home owner has to choose to be connected to natural gas. In 2010, during the peak winter period, we had a 25% increase in the number of connections compared with the same period last year thanks to the campaign,” says Peter. He said there was also an increase in sales of gas appliances in New South Wales - thanks to the campaign’s impact which is evident when one compares figures for New South Wales against national sales figures for gas appliances (in brackets). There was a 20% increase in sales of hot water systems (0% nationally); a 45% increase in sales of flued heating (5% nationally); a 30% increase in sales of “log” fires (10% nationally) and a 20% increase in sales of central heating systems (5% nationally). Peter said that key initiatives in the highlysuccessful campaign were: • adding new advertising mediums - online advertising on the Sydney Morning Herald website and supersites on major arterial roads
• making it easier for people to find out if they could connect their homes to natural gas by establishing a gas availability tool on the www.naturalchoice.com.au website • making is easier for people to connect to natural gas - by launching the DirectConnect Service for householders whose properties are in the Jemena Gas Network area • incentivising gas fitters and gas plumbers by launching the Jemena Rewards program for gas fitters and plumbers who connect their customers to natural gas • making it easier for existing gas users to find special deals on gas appliances - by creating a dedicated special link on the www. naturalchoice.com.au website for hot water, heating, drying and outdoor appliances • making it easier for builders and developers to connect to natural gas - by establishing a direct connection service coordinating installation of gas lines and meters supported by a technical advice and support service Now in its fourth year, this campaign began in 2008 after Jemena - as part of a strategic review - conducted extensive consumer research and found that leaving the promotion of natural gas to energy retailers was not effective or efficient. The research, conducted in 2007, also found that consumers, while recognising that natural gas was good for the environment, needed greater reassurance that natural gas was the right solution for heating. The review concluded that Jemena, as the owner of the Jemena Gas Network in New South Wales, should develop and implement targeted marketing programs for natural gas. In 2008, Jemena launched the ‘Natural Gas, Natural Choice’ brand and marketing campaign using media such as television, print, outdoor, online, events and point of sale. One of the major challenges facing the campaign is that Jemena does not have a call nor does it sell or install gas appliances - yet the aim of the campaign was to get consumers to buy and install such appliances. The solution was to create a consumer website - www.thenaturalchoice.com - that provides information about natural gas appliances, where to buy them and how to install them. Jemena also forged strong working partnership with manufacturers of gas appliances which resulted in attractive offers to consumers wishing to purchase such appliances. The website also has details of deals/discounts on gas appliances in their area.
Helicopter lifts new equipment into place at Tumut 1 Power Station
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EW equipment to improve the ventilation systems of the Tumut 1 Power Station was delivered by helicopter over several days last week, as part of a project by specialist engineering company, Conneq.
Above: Helicopter lifts supporting frameworks up to Tumut 1
Taking off from Cabramurra Oval, the helicopter transported pieces of equipment to a cable shaft located above the Hydro Power Station, where a Conneq team is now completing the installation. The operation is part of an upgrade of the Power Station’s ventilation system. The newly installed equipment includes extraction fans, supporting frames, a substation and a motor control centre. Senior Project Manager for Snowy Hydro, Kamal Kapuruge, said: “The upgrade of the ventilation system is part of Snowy Hydro Limited’s significant and ongoing upgrade of the Snowy Scheme.” Conneq designed, supplied, installed and commissioned the new ventilation system for Snowy Hydro. Conneq’s heritage encompasses a 60year association with Australia’s power industry which includes an involvement in the installation of around 10 gigawatts of generating capacity. Projects have included coal-fired, gas-fired and hydro power stations.
New Electric Vehicles hit the road
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N keeping with Western Power’s commitment to exploring new and emerging technologies, Western Power has become one of the first West Australian corporations to include the Mitsubishi electric vehicle (i-MiEV) to its fleet.
As a foundation partner for the national launch of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, Australia’s first electric car, Western Power is leasing two Mitsubishi i-MiEVs for three years, and is one of only a handful of companies across Australia to include it as part of its fleet. “Electric vehicles are one way we as a community can work towards reducing overall carbon emissions. I am very pleased Western Power is at the forefront of employing this emerging technology,” Western Power Managing Director Doug Aberle said. “Electric vehicles have the potential to dramatically affect the way we use energy in Western Australia.
“This is developing technology and there is a great deal to learn and understand about how these technologies will affect our power use,” Western Power Managing Director Mr Doug Aberle said. “Initially we will be looking at how people utilise the electric vehicles and their behaviours and usage patterns. This will allow us to make informed decisions. “EVs are a really exciting prospect from a network management perspective.” “Western Power needs to be ready to pursue these emerging opportunities and we see this as the perfect time to trial the vehicles as part of our own fleet. It will help add to our understanding of electric vehicles,” Mr Aberle said.
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Australian Power & Energy News - Page 25
More power goes Not so boring upgrade underground in Wellington secures power to Iluka
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specialist underground crew from Essential Energy’s Field Service Centre at Dubbo visited Wellington recently to convert another block of Wellington’s central business district from overhead to underground powerlines.
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SSENTIAL ENERGY has completed what is believed to be the longest underbore in the Southern Hemisphere – a new 3.7 kilometre cable beneath the Clarence River from Yamba to Iluka. Regional general manager Far North Coast, Richard Wake, said the powerline runs from beneath the Yamba Industrial area, across to Hickey Island in the middle of the Clarence River and on to Iluka, providing a reliable power supply for the town.
of a 13 storey building.
“Now the new powerline has been completed, we’ll use it as the main power supply for Iluka, and retain the existing powerline as a back up power source for the area,” Richard said. “The project, an investment of around $6 million, will significantly improve the reliability of Iluka’s power supply as well as cater for future growth in the area by providing increased network capacity.
The new powerline was built with environmental concerns in mind, as it passes beneath the riverbed and underneath Hickey Island.
“This has been a huge undertaking for Essential Energy – the new system replaces around 30 kilometres of exposed overhead powerlines, increasing power security by removing the risk of vegetation or wildlife contacting the lines. “In places, the cable lies more than 40 metres beneath the riverbed – that’s around the height
“There were a huge number of things to consider when we planned and implemented this project – if there hadn’t been an island in the middle of the river, the distance to cover would’ve been impossible.”
“This new line is a win for Essential Energy, the community and the environment – and it’s a fantastic feeling to be part of something that’s not just a first for us, but one of the longest underbores the world has seen,” Richard said. “It’s a part of our more than $25 million investment in the power supply to the Lower Clarence area, including the completion of a new zone substation in Maclean, a new depot at Townsend and the new high voltage powerline that is under construction from Koolkhan to Maclean.”
Above: Essential Energy underground crew pulls low voltage cable through underground conduits in Swift Street, Wellington. The overhead powerlines will be removed when all customers have been connected to the underground supply
The project, involving a 200-metre section of Swift Street, Wellington, is part of Wellington Shire Council’s beautification of the CBD. When completed, the removal of the overhead power infrastructure will allow the Council’s newly-planted trees to grow to their full size without having to be pruned for safety. Essential Energy regional general manager North Western, Pete Halliwell, said weather permitting, Essential Energy expected all businesses in the street would be connected to the underground power, with the overhead powerlines removed, by the end of June. “It’s a complex process and for a while we’ll actually have power running through both the overhead and underground network to minimise inconvenience to customers as they are connected to the system one by one,” Mr Haliwell said. “With the first two stages now complete, this third stage sees us pulling the low-voltage cable through underground conduits along both sides of the street, as well as connecting the street lights and installing the service pits and pillars from which businesses and Page 26 - Australian Power & Energy News
residences will be supplied. “In stage four, a contractor will dig the trenches and install cable to connect individual premises to the mains, and finally, when everyone has been connected, Essential Energy’s Wellington crews will take down the overhead powerlines and remove the poles.” The cost of stages three and five – installation of low-voltage cable and removal of overhead lines - is $300,000. “Essential Energy is pleased to share the cost of undergrounding the Wellington CBD with the Shire Council as the town develops,” Pete said. “As well as improving the streetscape, the new cables will bring a safer, highercapacity and more reliable power supply to customers in Swift Street, and will create a high and low voltage ring system in the CBD, allowing power to be re-routed in the event of a planned or unplanned interruption.” Essential Energy will invest more than $92 million in maintaining and improving the electricity network in the North Western region this financial year.
Above: Essential Energy cable jointer, Peter Duscher, demonstrates the sheer size of the cable drums used to transport the underground cable for the Yamba to Iluka underbore
Coe Drilling use HDD Technology from Yamba to Iluka T
Coe Drilling’s team on the job using HDD Technology
HROUGHOUT the Asia/Pacific region the name Coe is synonymous with trenchless technology. Since the early nineties Coe Drilling Pty Ltd has been at the forefront of a growing industry developing highly accurate engineered solutions using horizontal directional drilling (HDD) to install underground infrastructure.
Back then Coe Drilling played a major role in assisting the Australian telecommunications industry with the installation of the fibre optic infrastructure network throughout the country. At the time horizontal underground drilling was a relatively new process and faced with the challenges presented by the various sub terrain characteristics, which are a feature of the broad Australian landscape, Coe Drilling learnt much about this new technology. But that was at the beginning and since then major utility asset owners, motivated not least by the obvious environmental benefits, have embraced trenchless installations. Since those early days, Coe Drilling has rapidly gained a significant reputation as leaders in HDD and micro-tunnelling technology. Coe supports its operation with an in-house team of specialist engineers and the largest fleet of equipment in the Asia/Pacific region with drilling rigs ranging from 50 – 500 tonne pullback capacity. The company recently purchased an American Augers 500 Tonne HDD Rig to enhance the fleet. Essential Energy recently called on Coe’s expertise to assist the company in installing the conduits and cables from Iluka to the Yamba substation. Specifically, Coe Drilling were required to enable the installation of power cables from the substation at Yamba to the community of Iluka on the Northern side of the Clarence River in Northern New South Wales. It was a distance of over 3 km and the first time that Essential Energy had used HDD technology for a cable route of that length.
Coe Drilling Pty Ltd 11-13 Gibbs Street, Labrador, Queensland 4215 Australia. +61 7 5500 5222 Tel +61 7 5500 6444 Fax www.coedrilling.com.au
Coe Drilling drilled the crossing using its 250 Tonne Capacity HDD Rig and support equipment. The boreholes were drilled at depths of up to 40m below the Clarence River. DN 200 HDPE 100 PN 20 conduits were installed to hold the electrical cables. It’s not surprising that Coe Drilling were selected by Essential Energy for its first ‘long distance’ HDD project solution. Coe’s team of experienced engineers and Drilling Managers are highly skilled and extremely competent in dealing with such complex projects. The Coe drilling team have completed similar long crossings including the longest HDD Shore crossing for a Fibre Optical Cable in the Bass Strait at over 2.1km. Coe has recently completed complex installations in Thailand installing 36 and 42 inch pipelines that were 1500m in length. The team used a 500 ton capacity HDD Rig which is the largest HDD Rig in the Southern Hemisphere Coe Drilling use the latest ‘state of the art’ software to generate the overall design plan with a profile for each installation. This method reveals all the geotechnical information along the trajectory of the bore path and allows Coe to design the project to suit the crossing radius. It also means that the team can avoid any existing obstruction such as pipes or other previously installed materials. Detailed sub terrain stress analysis is also performed prior to any product installation to calculate the various opposing forces that may compete during the installation process. Coe Drilling engineers use the latest Magnetic
Guidance Systems to provide ‘steering’ along the bore for the proposed installation. Following the procedure Coe engineers can generate an ‘as-built’ drawing of the crossing from the data obtained during the pilot-hole operation. In the event that magnetic based instruments cannot be used due to high magnetic interference in the vicinity of the bore-hole, Coe engineers survey the crossing using Gyro Steering technology to accurately position the utility. Collectively, the team at Coe Drilling has completed more than 350 directional drilled crossings of varying lengths and diameters throughout Australia and Asia. One of the company’s most notable achievements was the completion of the first ever, directional drilling contract in Pakistan for BHP. The company has also successfully completed crossings in India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Malaysia Thailand and Hong Kong. Although initially, horizontal directional drilling was developed to traverse rivers, the technique is now applied in a much broader
capacity and Coe Drilling has developed the technique to such an extent that there appears to be no limit to the types of applications. Coe now use HDD technology for road, rivers, canals and rail crossings as well as airport runway crossings, beach approaches and outfalls. The company also use HDD to complete inclined bore-holes to tunnels. There’s no doubt that Coe Drilling are the horizontal directional drilling specialists with a long list of successful projects completed throughout a broad range of industry sectors. These include projects related to oil, gas, power, telecommunications, water and sewerage and environmental remediation. In a world where the use of valuable space must be maximised and assets are often located in sensitive urban locations, Coe Drilling Pty Ltd can provide the appropriate, creative response and a range of practical solutions for underground installation. It’s a win for communities and for asset owners both public and private.
• OIL & GAS TELECOMMUNICATIONS • WATER & WASTE WATER • ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION • POWER • 50-300 TON CAPACITY • 6”- 54” COMPLETED • 100-2040M CROSSINGS COMPLETED Australian Power & Energy News - Page 27
RECRUITMENT & APPRENTICE INTAKE NEWS
154 new recruits join the frontline T
HE next generation of energy workers have started work on the frontline, helping to deliver one of the nation’s biggest and smartest infrastructure programs. 154 new apprentice line workers, electricians, cable jointers and motor mechanics have begun their four-year on the job training on the electricity network across Sydney, the Hunter and Central Coast. EnergyAustralia Managing Director George Maltabarow said the new recruits were on their way to a stable career in a growing industry at a time of great change. “The electricity industry is facing its biggest change in 100 years,” Mr Maltabarow said. “We are rolling out new smart grid technology as part of an $8 billion upgrade of the electricity network. These new recruits will help deliver these programs. “They will be the first crew to wear our new brand Ausgrid, and they will be the first new crew to be trained at our state of the art learning centre.”
Above: Ben King, apprentice electrical mechanic - Armidale
Above: Ausgrid Managing Director George Maltabaro There are more than 600 apprentices in training at Ausgrid, meaning the company will continue to be the largest single employer of apprentices in NSW. The new apprentice crew were recruited from across the state, including: • 26 from Newcastle and the Hunter; • 24 from the Central Coast; and • 94 throughout Sydney Apprentices are trained at the Learning Centre in Silverwater, and at other facilities in Wallsend and Muswellbrook and through TAFENSW. They are paid to learn and gain a nationally recognised trade while working on state-of-the-art infrastructure projects including our Smart Grid. “We have been training apprentices since 1910. It is a strong tradition that continues through to this new crew,” Mr Maltabarow said. “Our trainers are some of the best tradespeople in the business and the passing-on of their skills and experience is vital for our electricity network.” Apprentices will join the frontline team serving the community during storms. EnergyAustralia staff were called upon to help the efforts in Queensland after flooding and Cyclone Yasi and that tradition will continue under the new Ausgrid brand. These 154 new jobs are boosting the workforce, helping to fill the national skills shortage.
Above: (In front) Mark Hinton and Tylissa Stephens with Robert Nicholls, Aaron Chew, Michael Walker, Justin Fields, Michael Howarth and Chris Ticehurst celebrated their electrical mechanic, lineworker and cable jointing apprenticeships at the new Ausgrid Learning Centre
Above: First year apprentice lineworkers Vasili Vamianakis and Robert Lombardo try out their gear Page 28 - Australian Power & Energy News
Above: Llandilo’s apprentice electrical mechanic Nicholas Thomson and apprentice motor mechanic Nathan Cini, with Glenmore Park’s Christopher Ticehurst and apprentice line worker from Werrington County, Ashley Watts, celebrated their apprenticeships at the new Ausgrid Learning Centre