Please see our editorial and advertisement on pages 16 and 17
VOL. 16 NO. 88 - August/September 2012
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
Successful Safety Event wraps up at Coffs Harbour Pages 9-15
Eyre Peninsula Reinforcement Project Backgrounder
ETSA Utilities name changed to SA Power Networks as from 3 September 2012
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S South Australia’s electricity transmission specialist, ElectraNet understands that prudent investment in our state’s electricity transmission network is critical, supporting regional economic development and also growth in employment opportunities. The existing 132,000 Volt high-voltage transmission line on Eyre Peninsula is now reaching the end of its technical life. This aged asset has limited capacity, which means that it will not be able to support the region’s projected future growth. During November 2010, ElectraNet implemented a non-network solution to reduce network limitations on Eyre Peninsula and meet the forecast growth in power demand. This solution was the most cost-effective available solution for electricity consumers to achieve ongoing supply reliability – and has effectively deferred for a number of years, the need for an extensive regulated high-voltage transmission line. ElectraNet is now in the process of applying the Regulatory Test for Transmission (RIT-T) to identify the best economic solution to meet the growing energy needs of the Eyre Peninsula region.
ETSA Utilities formally changed its name to SA Power Networks on Monday 3 September 2012. The change is aimed at clarifying the company’s role as South Australia’s electricity distributor and as a major SA-focused company employing about 2,000 South Australians, including 180 apprentices, across the State. While the name is changing, key contact telephone numbers will remain the same, including the 13 13 66 faults and emergencies number. Publisher:
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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 Web: www.amrcn.com.au (Click on ‘Other Publications’)
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: ElectraNet stand at the Eyre Peninsula Field Days ElectraNet has also identified a number of other projects for the Eyre Peninsula between 2012 and 2014, including the Cultana Augmentation, Whyalla Terminal Substation Replacement, Whyalla-Yadnarie Telecoms Upgrade and Wudinna Transformer Reinforcement. ElectraNet recently attended the Eyre Peninsula Field Days to commence preliminary informal community engagement around the necessary replacement of the existing aged 132,000 Volt high-voltage transmission line on Eyre Peninsula. As the project is in the early exploratory planning stage, the Field Days were a great way for ElectraNet to seek feedback from the local community – the people who best know the area – about important matters that may influence future transmission line route options. Valuable local insight was gained from local landowners at the Field Days regarding topography, current land use, planned development and native vegetation. An option under consideration is to follow a similar path to the existing transmission line route. In achieving the most effective solution ElectraNet will be aiming to balance community and key stakeholder feedback and the project’s stringent safety, engineering, environmental and cost requirements. In coming months, ElectraNet will begin a targeted community engagement program to enable key stakeholders ample opportunity to inform planning for potential line route options. For more information about ElectraNet, please visit electranet.com.au or call Toll Free 1800 243 853.
Complete Wrap-Up of the Successful Essential Energy ESI Field Days held recently in Coffs Harbour
Pages 9 -15
Australian Power & Energy News - Page 3
Industry leader opens new Engineering and Manufacturing Facility
Green light for works to start on ElectraNet’s Waterloo Substation Replacement Project ElectraNet’s Waterloo Substation Replacement Project has received development approval and works are scheduled to commence in October this year. Construction is estimated to take up to 18 months, with energisation planned for late 2013. The project will start with road and site works on Main Road, Waterloo, and a ‘Meet the Contractor’ BBQ will be held on 4 October.
Above: Geoff Lilliss (Ampcontrol CEO & MD), Mike Symon (Federal Member for Deakin) and Innes Willox (Ai Group CEO)
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strong commitment to innovation and product development is driving the impressive growth of Australia’s largest, privately-owned electrical engineering and manufacturing company, Ampcontrol, with the opening of a new facility in Victoria to manufacture its range of hazardous area, portable and fixed industrial and mine lighting products. Ampcontrol’s Burn Brite facility was officially opened by Australian Industry Group’s Chief Executive, Mr Innes Willox. As the leading supplier of turnkey lighting systems to Australian longwall mines, Ampcontrol’s Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Lilliss, believes the technical capability of the company is behind its success. “We have built a reputation for engineering and manufacturing world-first products. Burn Brite, as part of the Ampcontrol Group, is an Australian-owned business, designing and manufacturing a range of industrial lighting products in Australia for the global market”, said Mr Lilliss. “Our investment in this new facility reinforces our confidence in the industry despite the decline in some parts of the Australian manufacturing sector. We have increased our employee numbers by 40% to cater for our growth and have experienced increasing sales, particularly across our two innovative mining products – the IS LED Light and the IS Power Supply”, Mr Lilliss said. “Our longwall mine lighting system which
combines these two products is now installed in almost every longwall mine across Australia. Our customers recognise the safety innovation and technical capability provided by these products”, Mr Lilliss said. Attending to officially open the new facility, Ai Group’s Chief Executive, Innes Willox commented that Ampcontrol’s Burn Brite business is representative of the new era of manufacturing in Australia where innovation and skill are behind the sustainability of the business. “At a time when many manufacturers are doing it tough, it is a great to see businesses such as Ampcontrol’s Burn Brite who are adapting and indeed thriving due to their strong commitment to innovation in engineering and manufacturing processes”. “Looking around this new facility it’s evident where manufacturing in this country could take us with the right investment in skills and technology,” Mr Innes said. Ampcontrol’s Burn Brite facility has been designed using lean manufacturing principles which focus on minimising waste in terms of efficient use of time and materials.
Above: Burn Brite Ringwood facility
Above: Burn Brite new facility Page 4 - Australian Power & Energy News
Above: IS LED Longwall Lighting System mounted on longwall roof supports
Above: Visualisation of the new Waterloo Substation This project will replace the existing Waterloo substation with a new 132/33 kV substation that will be built on land adjacent to the existing substation site. The new substation will ensure that changed transmission reliability requirements for the Mid North region legislated by the South Australian Electricity Transmission Code (ETC) are met. “The existing Waterloo Substation forms an integral part of the highvoltage transmission network in the Mid North and South Australia, acting as the connection point for four existing 132 kV transmission lines to ElectraNet’s Hummocks, Mintaro, Waterloo East and Templers substations,” said Mr Phil Court-Kowalski, Executive Manager Network Services at ElectraNet. ‘With the existing Waterloo substation plant and equipment approaching 60 years of constant service, a replacement substation was the most
economically sound option, as the continuing costs to repair and maintain aged transmission assets rise.’ ‘This new substation development will also ensure the increased reliability of transmission supply to the Mid North region,‘ he said. A ‘Meet the Contractor’ BBQ will be held on 4 October 2012 from 4.30pm at the Waterloo Memorial Hall for the local community to meet with the project team, who will be carrying out site works on the Waterloo substation development. Community questions may be directed to the Toll Free community line on 1800 243 853 or emailed to communityliaison@electranet. com.au to discuss any matters relating to the new development and construction works throughout the project.
SP AusNet announces apprentice and trainee award winners SP AusNet announced the winners of its 2011 Apprentice and Trainee of the Year Awards at a ceremony in Melbourne recently. Judged by an internal panel of four, the awards recognise the achievements of SP AusNet’s 89 first to fourth year apprentices and trainees working on SP AusNet’s state-wide electricity transmission network, and its electricity and gas distribution networks. SP AusNet Managing Director, Nino Ficca, presented the awards, acknowledging the contribution of the group as they progress towards future leaders of the company. “SP AusNet’s apprentices and trainees contribute greatly to our workforce, bringing fresh ideas and enthusiasm to our more experienced teams,” Mr Ficca said. “It’s with great pleasure that I get to recognise and present awards to this year’s winners. “Again, we have another strong year of candidates and I look forward to following their careers in the energy industry,” he said. The recipients of the 2011 Apprentices and Trainee of the Year Awards were: Apprentice of the Year (1st Year) • Brad Overend, Lineworker from Bairnsdale Apprentice of the Year (2nd Year) • Jason Campbell, Lineworker from Mansfield
Apprentice of the Year (3rd Year) • Christopher Robertson, Lineworker from Benalla Apprentice of the Year (4th Year) • Neven Beribak, Primary Power Technician from Rowville Trainee of the Year (1st Year) • Josh Hare, SCADA Technician from Yarraville Trainee of the Year (2nd Year) • Keang Ung, Network Controller from Melbourne Trainee of the Year (3rd Year) • Stuart Hall, Power Technician from Rowville Trainee of the Year (3rd Year) • Paul Creamer, Survey Officer from Benalla Trainee of the Year (4th Year) • Michael Delapena, Network Controller from Melbourne This year, the third year trainee category was so strong that the judges awarded two trainees for their achievements. Applications for SP AusNet’s 2013 Apprentice and Trainee program will be open from 29 June to 27 July. For further information please log on to www.sp-ausnet.com.au. SP AusNet supports diversity in its workplace.
Above: SP AusNet MD Nino Ficca with the award winners
Yorke Peninsula to receive transmission network expansion with $25m Ardrossan West Substation ElectraNet is undertaking a major expansion of the transmission network on the Yorke Peninsula. The Ardrossan West Substation, part of ElectraNet’s 132 kV transmission network on the Yorke Peninsula, is located just north of the Ardrossan township. To meet the ongoing load growth in the region, the existing substation has been earmarked for a major rebuild to ensure continued high levels of reliability and overall security of supply for the Yorke Peninsula. The existing Ardrossan West Substation will be expanded, a new 132/33 kV transformer will be installed, associated work will be done to the 132 kV busbar and a new secondary system to support the ability for remote control operation and enhanced data collection will be installed. ‘The $25m upgrade to the Ardrossan West Substation is driven by a change in classification of the Ardrossan West connection point from a Category 1 to a Category 2 load under the Electricity Transmission Code (ETC). Recognising the economic value and importance of the Yorke Peninsula, the Electricity Transmission Code has increased the reliability standard at Ardrossan West,’’ said Mr Phil Court-Kowalski, Executive Manager Network Services. ‘As ElectraNet’s reliability standards are
stipulated by the Electricity Transmission Code and the National Electricity Rules, works are required to maintain the quality, reliability and security of supply of transmission services. The Yorke Peninsula will benefit from improved security of supply through increased transmission capacity and supply reliability from aged assets replacement, increased overall electricity capacity as the demand for power continues to grow, and improved transmission network security and reliability,’ Mr CourtKowalski said. The Ardrossan West connection point reliability was upgraded from a Category 1, which required ElectraNet to provide system normal transmission line and transformer capacity with no requirement for any redundancy, to a Category 2 standard. The change in classification means ElectraNet has to have in place line capacity to meet the reliability standard that applied to Category 2 loads. The new standard ensures N-1 equivalent transformer capacity to meet 100% of the Agreed Maximum Demand for the connection point. Energisation of the new Ardrossan West Substation is planned by October 2012. More information on the Ardrossan West Substation is available at www.electranet.com.au.
Above: The Ardrossan West Substation
Above: Construction works at the Ardrossan West Substation Australian Power & Energy News - Page 5
Complete Stringing & Cable Hauling Machinery Packages Machinery Refurbishment TEN specialise in the sale and hire of machinery for energy transmission and distribution – both overhead and underground, OPGW (fibre optic) handling, telecommunications, rail and mining. We understand that increasing the operating life of machinery is critical to minimising costs and maximising the return on capital for your business. That’s why we can completely overhaul, modify and refurbish your existing machines to extend the reliability and performance of your working fleet. Our fully certified TESMEC technicians refurbish machines to the highest standard in keeping with manufacturer’s original specifications. We have a 14 year working partnership with global supplier TESMEC who train and certify our staff. Refurbishing programs cover cable hauling and stringing machinery such as winches, hydraulic pullers and puller-tensioners. TEN can offer a comprehensive package of logistics, refurbishment, safety upgrades and testing of machinery before its back on your worksite. The choice is yours. TEN is the exclusive distributor for TESMEC in Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Islands. Our technicians carry out all refurbishment, service and repair work using genuine TESMEC parts in our 800m2 Brisbane service centre.
Two Tesmec AFS400 Hydraulic Puller Tensioner’s are refurbished and undergo a complete safety upgrade ready for mine specific work.
4. 1. Machines arrive at TEN
Preventative Maintenance Programs Owning a substantial fleet of Hire machinery, we also understand the importance of regular machine service and repair. The benefits of a Preventative Maintenance Programs are proven: • Reducing costly downtime • Ensuring optimum performance of machinery • Extending the life of machinery • Ensuring the health and safety of persons working with machinery • Reducing costly repairs from breakdown
2. Technicians overhaul engine before machines are stripped and re-painted. 5. Safety hazard identification labels and branding applied to machines.
Machine Safety Upgrades – Mine site specifications In line with new harmonisation laws of plant, TEN now offers a complete machine safety upgrade package with specially designed features including machine guarding, protective electrical wire covers, safe access designs, audible warning alarms and hazard identification labels. Safety for operators of plant is paramount and we supply machines with all documentation including Risk Assessments, Instruction Manuals and daily checklists. Complete machine operational training packages are offered by our team of certified TESMEC trainers. TEN is capable of responding to any machinery job and has a range of packages required to assist your workloads, while meeting your legal and safety obligations. Call us to discuss a suitable package for your existing machinery or for quotations on hire or purchasing new machinery.
3. Specially designed safety guarding and safety features are added.
4. Machines taken to site for complete testing and calibration
Page 6 - Australian Power & Energy News
6. Completed machines ready for worksite delivery.
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the energy network
Australian Power & Energy News - Page 7
Ausgrid North Shore cable work North Shore cable work horizontal directional drilling
New substation a boost towards reliable transmission for Whyalla City and the Eyre Peninsula ElectraNet’s new Whyalla Central 132/33 kV Substation will ensure the continued supply of reliable and secure electricity transmission services to the City of Whyalla, and contribute towards meeting the increasing electricity transmission demands of the Eyre Peninsula into the future.
Ausgrid - North Shore cable work
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REWS are in the final stages of replacing more than two kilometres of high voltage transmission cable to power 15,000 homes and businesses across Sydney’s North Shore. The existing 33,000 Volt cables and wires were installed in the 1960s to connect the Crows Nest zone substation to a major supply point in Artarmon. Horizontal directional drilling specialists recently finished drilling two 600mm-wide
Page 8 - Australian Power & Energy News
tunnels under the North Shore rail line in Artarmon as part of the 10-month replacement project. The 150-metre long tunnels between Ella Street and Naremburn Park in Artarmon will hold conduit pipes to carry six new 132,000 Volt cables. Ausgrid General Manager Transmission Brett Hooper said the next stage of work included pulling the new 132,000 Volt cables through the conduits. “The existing cables have served the North Shore community well for half a century and are now approaching the time for replacement,” Mr Hooper said. “Substation technicians are also installing equipment in the recently completed new substation building adjoining the existing substation built in the 1930s. “The replacement of ageing electrical infrastructure across the North Shore will help meet the electricity needs of the area.” Temporary road surfaces along the cable route will be permanently restored once all work on the project is complete.
The existing Whyalla Terminal Substation plays a critical role in supplying electricity to Whyalla City and the Eyre Peninsula, including meeting significant iron ore mining and local steel industry loads. Under the South Australian Electricity Transmission Code (ETC), the Whyalla terminal connection point has been reclassified from a Category 3 to a Category 4 load. This means that upgrades are required to meet the upcoming classification change to a Category 4 with continuous N-1 transformer capacity by 30 June 2013. ‘Electricity demand on the Lower Eyre Peninsula is forecast to increase significantly due to underlying demand growth and potential iron ore mining developments together with the establishment of support infrastructure and services,’ said Mr Phil Court-Kowalski, ElectraNet Executive Manager Network Services. ‘The existing Whyalla Terminal Substation has an outgoing single circuit radial
transmission line to Yadnarie that supplies all of the Eyre Peninsula loads south of Whyalla. On examination of the available options, the one with the lowest long-term cost was selected, which is to replace the existing substation with a new one. Replacing the existing substation with the new Whyalla Central 132/33 kV Substation will strengthen the network in the Whyalla region and help alleviate the issue of the existing Whyalla Terminal Substation eventually becoming a reliability risk. It also ensures compliance with the reliability and security standards set out in the National Electricity Rules (NER),’ said Mr Court-Kowalski. The new Whyalla Central 132/33 kV Substation is scheduled to be completed by June 2013 and is located across the Whyalla Industrial Estate on Arthur Glennie Drive, approximately three kilometres north of the town centre and one kilometre west of the existing Whyalla Terminal Substation.
Above: Site works progressing for the new Whyalla Central Substation
Wrap-Up of the Successful Essential Energy ESI Field Days held recently in Coffs Harbour
Successful safety event wraps up at Coffs Harbour E
SSENTIAL SERVICES professionals have tested their workplace skills, explored industry ideas and shared safety knowledge at the 2012 Electricity Supply Industry (ESI) Field Days in Coffs Harbour.
Hosted by Essential Energy, the annual safety event was an important refresher for professionals from the electricity, water, mining and rail industries in creating a stronger, safer working environment. Executive manager human resources and safety, Mark Mulligan, said, “The ESI Field Days has been a brilliant success with everyone getting into the spirit of the safety event. “From friendly rivalry in the challenges to the sharing of knowledge, developing of ideas and sharpening of existing skills and safe work practices, all participants have embraced the event. “Field crews and safety specialists have worked together over the past two days to question how we can do things better for our customers and for the safety of our people.” The Field Days event featured hands-on activities for all attendees, team challenges, demonstrations, exhibitions and workshops. “This is the second time in six years Essential Energy has hosted the ESI Field Days and each year it only seems to improve as workplace safety and efficiency evolves,” Mark said. “Essential Energy congratulates all teams on their conduct and team spirit throughout the two days.” Results of the challenges at this year’s Field Days are attached. Follow us on Twitter @essentialenergy to view the results, pictures and developments from the two-day event. For more information on the 2012 ESI Field Days, visit the Essential Energy website at www.essentialenergy.com.au/content/ESIFD. Below: An Essential Energy team extinguishes a grass fire as part of the Fire Management Challenge. Bottom: Laneway challenges kept industry representatives on their toes during the 2012 Electricity Supply Industry Field Days.
CHALLENGE NAME
FIRST
SECOND
THIRD
First Aid
Eraring Energy
Ausgrid
Macquarie Generation – team one
Fire Management
Mines Rescue Service
Essential Energy
Endeavour Energy
Confined Spaces Rescue
Mines Rescue Service
Essential Water
Ausgrid
Environmental Response
Ausgrid
Endeavour Energy
Essential Energy
Vehicle Awareness & Management
Ausgrid
Essential Energy
N/A
High Voltage OH & UG Switching
RailCorp
Essential Energy
Endeavour Energy
Pole Dressing (Transformer)
Essential Energy – team one
Essential Energy – team two
Ausgrid
Low Voltage Terminations Padmount
Essential Energy
Endeavour Energy
Ausgrid
Live Line HV 66kV Insulator Change (Stick Method)
Ausgrid
Endeavour Energy
Essential Energy
UG HV Pole Termination – Qualified
Endeavour Energy
Ausgrid
N/A
Live LV Termination Crossarm Change
Essential Energy
Ausgrid
Endeavour Energy
Apprentice Wiring
Endeavour Energy
Ausgrid
RailCorp – team two
HV Terminations – Padmount Substation
Endeavour Energy
Ausgrid
RailCorp
UG HV Pole Termination – Apprentices
Ausgrid
RailCorp
Endeavour Energy
Manual Handling
Essential Energy
Endeavour Energy
Ergon Energy – team one
Risk Assessment
Endeavour Energy
N/A
N/A
Top left: Mathew Vermeer was part of the victorious Essential Energy team in the Manual Handling Challenge. Top right: The Mines Rescue Service was scorching in its performance for the Fire Management Challenge Below: Essential Energy’s Nathan Williams and Paul Weston were in winning form in the Pole Dressing (Transformer) Challenge
Australian Power & Energy News - Page 9
Wrap-Up of the Successful Essential Energy ESI Field Days held recently in Coffs Harbour
ESI Field Days Challenge award winners ... LV Terminations Padmount Challenge winners – Essential Energy
HV Terminations Padmount Substation Challenge winners – Endeavour Energy
Live LV Termination Crossarm Change Challenge winners – Essential Energy
Risk Assessment Challenge winners – Endeavour Energy
UG HV Pole Termination Apprentices Challenge winners – Ausgrid
UG HV Pole Termination Qualified Challenge winners – Endeavour Energy
Apprentice Wiring Challenge winners – Endeavour Energy
Page 10 - Australian Power & Energy News
Wrap-Up of the Successful Essential Energy ESI Field Days held recently in Coffs Harbour
Confined Spaces Challenge winners – Mines Rescue Service
HV OH and UG Switching Challenge winners – RailCorp
Vehicle Awareness and Management Challenge winners – Ausgrid
Pole Dressing Transformer Challenge winners – Essential Energy team 1
Environmental Response Challenge winners – Ausgrid
Fire Management Challenge winners – Mines Rescue Service
First Aid Challenge winners - Eraring Energy
Live Line HV 66kV Insulator Change Challenge winners – Ausgrid Australian Power & Energy News - Page 11
Wrap-Up of the Successful Essential Energy ESI Field Days held recently in Coffs Harbour
ESI 2012 Exhibitor Awards a Winner for the ESI A
S HAS been the case in past years, the Essential Energy hosted ESI Field Day events has always attracted a varied and valuable collection of products from exhibitors. ESI 2012 has followed this trend. ESI 2012 Exhibitor Award adjudicators reported that a number of products were in the running for number one spot, however only one product per category could be selected. Exhibition Manager Errol Dunn, said how gratifying it was to see such an array of new and innovative products from exhibitors. ‘It is this inventive nature from the suppliers’ ranks that makes this event such a winner for the Australian ESI’. Both award winners received a $6,000 advertising package from the Australian Power & Energy News and a Trophy from Exhibition Managers Rentara.
and varied types of low voltage switchgear found in Essential Energy’s LV Network. From connecting low voltage fuse strips, loopin loop-out distribution fused pillars, (green pillars, beige pillars, steel cabinets), Tappat system, pits. The products in the network reflect a system that has unfolded for over 50 years and today’s power worker must find a method to protect themselves. Hylec declares the Low Voltage Earthing System (Catalogue No HEK70LVESS-01) is the ‘Multifunctional Answer’.
Tom Cook, Publisher of the Australian Power & Energy News newspaper presenting the Best Exhibitor Product on Display Award and the Best Exhibitor Safety Product Award on Display at the recent ESI Field Days held in Coffs Harbour.
The Exhibitor Awards at the ESI 2012 event were won by: BEST SAFETY PRODUCT ON DISPLAY –
AWL Canopies for their Safe-Stow Ladder Slide BEST PRODUCT ON DISPLAY –
Hylec Energy Solutions for their Low Voltage Earthing System
experts as one of the best innovations for trade professionals the industry has seen for many years. Safe-Stow addresses the difficulties encountered in unloading and loading large, heavy ladders.
Hylec Energy Solutions Low Voltage Earth System This multifunctional Low Voltage Earth System (right) was designed to fit the many
AWL Safe-Stow Ladder Slide The Safe-Stow Ladder Slide (left) ensures that with one simple hook the ladder slide can be accessed easily and stowed securely. AWL reports, the product has been recognised by many Occupational Health and Safety
AWL Manager Graham Frankham receiving the Best Safety Product on Display Award trophy from Exhibition Manager Errol Dunn of Rentara.
Hylec Energy Solutions’ Director, Rob Hyland responding after presentation of the Best Product on Display Award.
ESI 2012 Field Days Sponsor Praises Event Concept TEX Onsite Support on Offer for Future
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EFLECTING on their sponsorship of the ESI 2012 Field Days, TEX Onsite Managing Director Mr. Mick Kirwan said he was absolutely delighted with the industry response to the 2012 ESI Field Days. ‘I have always believed that this type of event is absolutely mandatory for the continued structured growth of the industry. The safety and workplace efficiency gains produced by this event are second to none and its continuation should feature in any planned industry restructure.’ Through TEX Onsite’s generous sponsorship, ESI Field Days host Essential Energy, were able to put a bit more into the overall program mix, producing what has been hailed as a great informative event all round. The sponsorship also supported the associated Safety Practitioners Conference. Addressing the ESI 2012 Safety Practitioners Conference participants, Mr Kirwan emphasised the importance of safety in this industry and how proud he was that his company could contribute something towards the end result. ‘We are all on the same page here and we would be happy to look at supporting this initiative again. Our product line is primarily aimed at safety outcomes and we have an
Page 12 - Australian Power & Energy News
unrivalled commitment to the safety bottom line across our vast inventory of services.’ Mr Kirwan said. It could be said that TEX Onsite has certain roots in the Electricity Supply Industry with many of the personnel emanating from the ESI. They also service many of the industry’s needs in test and calibration requirements throughout Australia. The Field Days proved a perfect venue to launch the TEX Onsite Comprehensive Management System (CMS), where as the one service provider, TEX Onsite delivers the total management structure for all test and calibration requirements in any organisation. This system is unique to TEX Onsite, is totally transparent for the client and is still basically controlled by the client through the secure online reporting and record keeping structure. Mr Kirwan encouraged all safety and quality management people within the ESI nationally, to consider the TEX Onsite CMS as there are enormous benefits here for all organisations. This is especially pertinent in the current climate of staff shortages throughout the industry. CMS provides total peace of mind whilst dealing with one supplier nationally. If anyone would like to discuss the CMS or any other TEX Onsite service, they can call the 1300 785 935 number for more information or visit the website www.texonsite.com.au
ElectraNet reinforces commitment to engineering excellence with partnership ElectraNet recently formalised a partnership with Engineers Australia, supporting the Engineers Australia Professional Development Program (PDP). This will prove to be a major step taken towards Engineering Excellence, as the PDP enables engineers to achieve Chartered status. The official agreement was signed by Ian Stirling, CEO of ElectraNet and Gerry Doyle, President of Engineers Australia. ‘The PDP benefits both the participant and ElectraNet, as the participant receives an internationally recognised badge of competence, benchmarked and transferable with standards applicable throughout Australia and in other parts of the world. ElectraNet benefits from building a well-rounded and highly competent engineering capability, enabling us to better meet our strategic objectives and help develop the career potential of engineering staff,’ said Mr Ian Stirling, CEO of ElectraNet. ‘The requirement for engineers to meet specific competencies within the PDP ensures our engineers are highly competent, ethical and well-rounded professionals.’ ‘The PDP is an important tool that will be instrumental in attracting, retaining and developing professional engineering and engineering related staff,’ said Mr Gerry Doyle, President of Engineers Australia. ‘Engineers Australia is working towards ensuring that in the future, only registered engineers can sign off on engineering drawings. Although a change to legislation may be several years away in South Australia, it is heartening to see ElectraNet put proactive plans in place to pre-empt this move.’ ‘ElectraNet joins many other organisations in the industry, including ETSA Utilities, Parsons Brinkerhoff (PB), ABB Australia, AEMO, Tenix, Transgrid, Western Power, Alstom and Powerlink who are in various stages of implementing a similar agreement,’ Mr Doyle said. Participants must be members of Engineers Australia, and must demonstrate competency in 16 specific elements, which are to be addressed in the form of an Engineering Competency Claim (ECC).
Above: Mr Gerry Doyle, President of Engineers Australia and Mr Ian Stirling, CEO of ElectraNet
Learn about ElectraNet’s commitment to Engineering Excellence at: electranet.com.au/corporate/engineering-excellence
Electrical Network Product Solutions
HYLEC ENERGY SOLUTIONS is the proud recipient of the BEST NEW PRODUCT AWARD at the 2012 Essential Energy Coffs Harbour Field day Essential Energy’s Best New Product by Hylec...
LOW VOLTAGE (LV) EARTHING SYSTEM The work involved submitting samples and making improvements along the way to create this extremely flexible system. This LV Earthing Kit is rated to 15ka/1second. Working under licence with our Principal, Fameca Electric of France, we have been able to create a product that is over 50% manufactured here in Australia and solves a multitude of issues that were associated with the earthing of UG LV systems.
www.hylec.com.au e: sales@hylec.com.au 39 Millenium Place TINGALPA QLD 4173 Ph: +61 7 3396 2220 Fax: +61 7 3396 1217
1505 APEN_Aug12
Background Essential Energy was faced with the challenge of how to best earth the extremely diverse range of Low Voltage switchgear across their networks, from Strip fuses to loop in loop out pillars including LV ABC. Hylec working together with Essential Energy’s Graham Dean Manager Underground Policy and Compliance, took on the project, reviewing needs, all in conjunction with Essential Energy‘s field staff.
Australian Power & Energy News - Page 13
Wrap-Up of the Successful Essential Energy ESI Field Days held recently in Coffs Harbour
Capital Safety – providing solutions to height safety Written by Michael Biddle, Managing Director
Height Safety Innovation on Show
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apital Safety has long been recognised in the market for its commitment to providing solutions to height safety problems and its ongoing commitment to product innovation This was no-more evident than during the recent Electrical Safety Institute (ESI) Field Days in Coffs Harbour, hosted by Essential Energy. Partnering with Life & Rescue International (LRI), the company was keen to present the latest innovations in height safety technology, which included liveline lanyards and harnesses, new rescue harnesses, pole-straps, new hardware (hook) technology advancements, confined space access equipment and fall arrestors relevant for electrical industry applications. Capital Safety is always keen to work closely with distributors and particularly LRI, given their extensive previous experience in dealing with Utilities (electrical transmission & distribution, Water Industry and telecommunications customers) and Power Generation markets. Working together, we have also had a great deal of success in addressing pressing customer needs and developing specialised products that are not readily available on the market.
Industry Support Given the wide range of product choices that are now available on the market, Capital Safety is always keen to demonstrate its commitment beyond all others as having the best package for industry. Over the past few years, a number of initiatives undertaken demonstrate this commitment to being the preferred supplier for the electrical market including: Australian Standards Manufacturing – Although everyone says they like to ‘Buy Australian’ to support local industry, this argument becomes even more compelling when comparing Australia Standards certified products. The Australian and New Zealand Standard for safety harnesses is the toughest in the world to pass – this means in many ways that they are the safest. With a localised manufacturing operation, this commitment to quality and making the best available products remains a hallmark of the company’s operations. Innovation – One of the key measures of performance for Capital Safety is its ability to bring new products to market. The company has an objective of having 30% of its sales generated from products launched within the last 4 years and has consistently delivered on this metric. This means that the company has a real interest in working with end users and
New products Featured during the show was the ‘Repel Liveline lanyard’ range, which has gained wide acceptance by industry for use in glove and barrier live line work. The lanyard features specialised webbing that repels water and dirt, delivering an enhanced level of safety for those conducting live line maintenance activities. This product is a great example of a common problem that was highlighted by the ENA committee, to which Capital Safety was able to respond with a solution in a comparatively short time frame. Glove & barrier harnesses with no metal hardware above the waist are also available, developed with the same application and safety considerations in mind. Comfortable and effective pole straps are another item often requested by the electrical distribution market. The traditional webbing pole strap with a friction based adjuster has been in circulation for over 20 years, however until a couple of years ago there was no real effective adjuster solution for use with rope. Capital Safety has since launched the ‘Trigger’ pole strap. This product is specifically designed for restraint use on poles and towers and can be easily adjusted with gloves on. The Trigger gains its name from the ‘action’ required to release the rope within the friction device. This light weight option has become very popular with customers in the Transmission and Telecommunications industries and is available at pricing that is little more than the widely used webbing option. Customers have also found that the use of rope as opposed to webbing also extends product life and flexibility for use in a number of applications. Whilst there are literally hundreds of harness types in circulation in industry, people are always keen to see the latest technology on offer. The show enabled LRI and Capital Safety to feature the latest Exofit NEX Rescue Harness, complete with integral chest ascender. Whilst there are alternative models on the market with this feature, this is the first harness certified to AS/NZS1891.1 with this feature set available. Another recent innovation has been providing latch protection for hooks used on pole-straps. This development has been recognised as being very important for the safety of people suspended whilst using pole-straps. There have been incidents in the past where webbing stitched into the pole strap hook has inadvertently oriented itself in such a way as to place pressure on the back latch of the hook, turning the hook from a double-action into a single-action device. Such risk can lead to the front hook gate rolling-out in certain orientations. This is clearly a safety issue and one solved with the introduction of the Latch Protection Device (LPD) – a polycarbonate fitting that prevents webbing from sliding forward onto the back latch and therefore removing this risk. Page 14 - Australian Power & Energy News
distributors to develop products that truly meet industry needs. In other words, new product development is more than a wish, it’s in our DNA. Customisation and Product trials – one of the other real benefits for the electrical industry about LRI and Capital Safety’s ongoing involvement in the electrical market is the ability to bring customised products to meet user’s specific requirements. The combination of a collaborative approach to development, coupled with the ability to test, certify and manufacture locally means that customer product development is both cost effective and responsive. The availability of products for in-field trial also allows us to ensure that the product you choose is right for the job in a field test prior to committing to broad scale purchase. Product Inspection – LRI offers height safety equipment inspection on a fee-forservice basis. Capital Safety can also provide you with nationally accredited training in height safety equipment inspection, along with all the tools required to perform this task within legal and local regulator Standards if a company wishes to keep this process in-house. Whether the choice is a technology based solution using RFID or a simple paper-based alternative, effective means of recording and providing reporting for continuous monitoring of equipment for currency is a key offering from both companies. Training – Both Capital Safety and LRI are Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), able to deliver Nationally Recognised training and competencies to customers where this requirement is important. We offer more than a 1 day course in general height safety. Some of the courses we have delivered to industry have include customised transformer access and rescue training, vertical rescue training, accessing confined spaces and many other locations specific for electrical installations and where other environmental hazards are an issue. In addition to fee for service training, Capital Safety has also conducted a large volume of industry and customer specific road show days in all parts of Australia in the past 4 years, delivering education and exposure to new product innovation and rescue and access techniques relevant to the electrical market. This service is part of our ongoing commitment to industry and is accessible on a complimentary basis. Please call us to find out more information, or access the QR code using your smart phone or tablets scanner/reader to view our short video clip on Fall Protection TV:
Inventory Support – Given the time critical nature of having products available for use urgently when required, both LRI and Capital Safety pride themselves in carrying significant inventory levels of all products to meet customer needs. Unlike international suppliers that rely on the next ‘sea freight’ container shipment, Capital Safety can also respond rapidly to local market needs by producing products quickly and efficiently and can frequently deliver customised product solutions within a 2 week time frame. Localised Service and Support – It is one thing to say you offer good service, but Capital Safety has the largest number of dedicated fall protection professionals located across Australia, with the knowledge to solve your safe work at height challenges. LRI also has offices around Australia with staff that can respond quickly to your needs. So when there is an issue, and we always know that there will be one some time, we can consistently deliver a prompt and efficient response to bring resolution. You just need to ask some of our customers about this – we can always give you some names to talk to if you need verification of our ability to deliver. These are some of the reasons why customers have chosen to work with Capital Safety and LRI. If you feel we can help you in a similar way, we welcome the opportunity to work with you and to show you through our manufacturing and testing facilities to show you how we can meet your requirements.
Contact us on: 1800 245 002 (Capital Safety) or 1300 302 111 (Life & Rescue International – LRI)
RELY ON THE WORLD’S LEADING HEIGHT SAFETY COMPANY
WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK
www.capitalsafety.com.au Quality ISO 9001
Environment ISO 14001
Australia: 1800 245 002 | New Zealand: 0800 212 505
G L O B A L L E A D E R I N FA L L P R O T E C T I O N
CAPITAL SAFETY BRANDS
Australian Power & Energy News - Page 15
Australian Engineering Solutions Provider “LEGEND’S mission is to provide excellence in engineered products, service and support to power generation, transmission and distribution. LEGEND Corporation has further strengthened its family of Power brands by bringing together MSS Power Systems & CABAC Power in to a single new division. The newly formed division will also promote the recently acquired Kulak, Computer Control Instrumentation (CCI) and Extreme Safety businesses along with many other brands.
5-PHASE DESIGN PHILOSOPHY ACROSS THE GROUP
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Across the group, LEGEND has established an enviable reputation as leaders in design, testing and manufacture of electrical connectivity solutions for Australian Utilities such as Power, Water and Transport. The acquisition of the new companies greatly enhances this already strong position. COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE
The group uses a comprehensive design process within their in house Engineering facilities. These facilities can develop products from initial concept sketches through to prototyping, manufacturing and testing in on site NATA
+ / The unique blend of engineering, design and 2 NATA laboratories makes each division ideally
2 conductivity solutions. “Our level of quality and service has been recognised and endorsed by major clients 4 - 4 5
region�, say’s CEO Bradley Dowe. “In addition, results from our laboratories have been instrumental in achieving product approval with many of Australia’s Electricity Utilities�.
All LEGEND divisions offer a complete service from design to quality manufacturing and delivers a quick turnaround time whilst the products adhere to national and international standards. This complete service allows customers to be involved in every step of the design development. Test results are also made available to customers to ensure the design meets their strict requirements. Electrical and mechanical engineers at one of the group design facilities
CUSTOM DESIGN & MANUFACTURE SERVICE
WORLD CLASS TESTING FACILITIES
The newly formed MSS Power Systems & CABAC Power division provides an extensive range of research and consulting services to support the development of better building products. Many key customers have used the service to develop unique products for their requirements. Typical projects can range from a simple adjustment such as additional screw holes, through to ground up design resulting from collaboration between their engineers and customers’ R&D departments.
“We have three testing laboratory facilities, 2
NSW and the third based at Hendon Semiconductors, a sister Division located in Adelaide, � say’s CEO Bradley Dowe.
Typical products designed through the custom design service have been: ! ?$ @F# J 5 + # Once tested and approved in the NATA accredited laboratory, the same production team that created the initial design prototypes manufactures the design. The production team schedules on-going manufacture of the product to meet the customers’ supply and delivery demands. The manufacturing facilities combine advanced CAD/CAM design and CNC machining for quick and precise manufacturing. They currently run a range of 5-axis Numerically Controlled (NC) lathes for producing copper, aluminium and bi-metal lugs,
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THE DESIGN TEAM
V4 4 possible level of testing
CONCLUSION The recent acquisition of CCI, Extreme Safety Equipment and MSS Power Systems has strengthened LEGEND’s already strong position within the power market. “The cross functional design teams, expanded sales and distribution network combined with our newly formed MSS Power Systems/CABAC Power division will only improve our level of commitment and service to our customers�, say’s CEO Bradley Dowe.
Compliant with ISO9001, ISO/IEC 17025:2005 and ISO13485 (Medical) standards, the group design service team consists of Electrical, Electronic and Mechanical Engineers who utilise the latest 3D modelling software, CAD/CAM design and prototyping facilities. ? ? J
Manufacturing works to close production tolerances
Gone Mobile
Wireless warehouse barcode terminals aids timely distribution!
MSS Power Systems & CABAC Power’s mobile phone version of their website (www.cabacpower. com.au) is now available to all Internet enabled smart phone users. The simple menu structure and large detailed images allow users to select and view product resources and technical data quickly. David Humphreys, Group Marketing Manager explained “we wanted to make sure that we had useful information available to as many trades persons as possible. A lot of our customers are working on the road or on job sites and don’t have access to a computer. They also don’t have time to wade through a mountain of products to get the information they need.� With a huge trend in the last couple of years towards the use of Internet enabled smart phones, creating a mobile phone version makes sense. “We stripped back as much as possible and made it easy to navigate through the site glance�, David said.
Sydney warehouse and dispatch facility
The new smart phone website contains all of the information available in the latest catalogue and also includes additional resources such as brochures, technical datasheets and video training. All the product information you need is at your
!" # $ % Page 16 - Australian Power & Energy News
With substantial warehouses located across Australia, and a stockholding in excess of $18M dollars, The newly merged divisions are well equipped to provide reliable and timely distribution of products. Smart phone website screen shots
CEO, Bradley Dowe explains “our extensive industry experience and excellence in warehouse management allows us to provide the best in distribution services to our customers�.
logistics to manage supply lines and ensure that stock levels are able to meet customer demand. This includes wireless warehouse barcode terminals and automated tracking services that allow orders to be assembled accurately and dispatched quickly. “Our aim is to service
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+ - to ensure we meet their high expectations,� said Warehouse Manager Dean Edwards. Customer Care Team 1800 769 370
The skilled procurement management teams apply the latest technologies in planning and
The combined power of two great Australian companies We are merging... Legend Corporation (www.legendcorporate.com) is pleased to announce the formation of a new division; MSS Power Systems, to better serve the Power, Rail and Primary Resource Engineering constructions markets with Australian Engineering Solutions. MSS Power Systems brings together the specialist proven expertise, experienced personnel and approved products of CABAC Power and MSS Power Systems to provide a national platform offering clients reliable,
Some of the major brands our division supports.
In addition to our wide range of proven products, MSS Power Systems offers:
NATA tested connectivity solutions, premium installation tools and specialist personal protection equipment.
and tool design
laboratories for connectors in Australasia ! procedures to ISO9001:20008
MSS Power Systems offers clients a single source to access the full range of products and services from all of Legend’s well known sister divisions - Legend Performance Technology serving the information technology and communication industries, CABAC serving the general electrical industry, Hendon Semiconductor serving military, commercial and industrial electronics and MSS Fibre
We believe that MSS Power Systems will improve range and service level offerings to you.
You can access our on site capabilities
Latest 3D CAD software
50 tonne tension test
NATA test laboratory
Custom manufacture
Our new website is here
Light sensing switch - approved across the country
Packed with great features...
Australian engineered to suit Australian conditions
EXTENSIVE PRODUCT RESOURCES
Approved By Power Utilities:
TECHNICAL DATA SHEETS ONLINE LUG GUIDE VIDEO TRAINING
Mechanical contacts for proven reliability Industry standard D2 format conforms to AS 1158-6 Wide operating voltage range (185- 305 Vac) Switches ON in the case of failure of the light sensing element
The HSC-PE2 is a light sensing switch for controlling mains powered street lighting 175J MOV exceeds Australian standards Electronic light sensor circuit for accurate light level operation
Part No. HSC-PE2
Non contaminated material
New products 1
Kompressor TM
The set includes: Hood (with Helmet), switching coat and leggings. NB: Gloves not included Part No. 90-488-SUIT-SIZE
6
5 2 1
12 ton hydraulic crimper Designed to crimp up to 750 MCM/400mm2 copper and aluminium connectors Part No. MSS-LPHC-750-C
3
5 6 1 Face shield tested to level 4 NFPA (44.8Cal/cm²) green ‘light enhancing Tint’ visor by Paulson. Worn in conjunction with a helmet (included)
4 2 3
2 ATPV: 44.8cal/cm² (Cat 4) 3 Extra long trousers. Designed
4 Specially designed fabric NOMEX IIIA by DuPont (205g/m2), 5 layer construction
4
5 Test: ASTM F1959-05 6 High visibility strikes positioned on the arms and bottom of the suit to enhance visibility
to cover work boots and protect
1 2 stage safety trigger. Eliminating accidental engagement of the piston
2 Ergonomic – lessen operator fatigue. Compact, lightweight and well balanced hydraulic crimp tool
3 Superior quality machined 4 355Âş Head rotation from lightweight premium 5 Visual crimp indicator grade aircraft alloy for 6 Exclusive superior strength and reliability
No retract pinch point
Call our sales team today to discuss... National Sales T 1800 769 370 E: sales@msspower.com.au W: cabacpower.com.au W: msspower.com.au Australian Power & Energy News - Page 17
POLARITY & NEUTRAL INTEGRITY TESTING Australian Standard AS 4741 prescribes polarity and neutral integrity as essential tests critical to prevent electric shocks and damage to property prior to connecting an installation to the network. AS 4741 requires three separate voltage measurements to be made at the point of the connection to correctly identify the active and neutral conductors and to prove that the neutral is not at an unacceptable potential due to a high resistance joint or other fault. The first two tests are to positively identify the active and neutral by testing between the two incoming conductors
and between what is believed to be active and an independent earth. Both these tests require the normal system supply voltage of 230/240V to be measured. Further tests are required to assess the neutral integrity according to the following criteria: • Neutral voltage 6V or less is acceptable • Neutral voltage 7 - 15V requires assessment to ensure it is due to normal system conditions • Neutral voltage 16 – 32V requires a risk analysis to ensure safety of the public
• Neutral voltage >32V is unacceptable. Prior to and after the above tests the instrument used to measure the voltages is required to be proven to be fully operational. This means that there must be an independent method to prove that the instrument will correctly indicate the neutral voltage thresholds plus normal mains voltage in the field without relying on the supply being tested. Measuring the above voltages is well within the scope of any multimeter but multimeters typically have many more functions than required for this application adding complexity, cost, maintenance and
increasing the chance of operator errors. Until the publishing of AS4741, some of the simple voltage & continuity testers were used for similar tests, but because many of these testers have a minimum measurement of around 9V they do not meet the requirements of the standard. Proving a tester to be fully operational in the field is not so easy, hence Pacific Test introduced the Volt-Test several years ago. This compact unit will produce 230V AC to prove most voltage measuring instruments will correctly measure mains voltages.
The New Volt-Tree In response to requests from a number of electricity distributors, Pacific Test Equipment has developed a simple Voltage and Continuity tester with a built-in Volt-Test. The New Volt-Tree is an easy to use instrument for testing prior to connecting installations to the 240/415v network. It is designed as a safer and more reliable alternative to test lamps which cannot identify low but critical voltages and are easily damaged. The Volt-Tree interprets the results according to AS4741 by giving colour coded indication of the neutral voltage status. A large backlit digital display indicates the measured voltage but in addition a series of high brightness LED’s indicate the magnitude of the neutral voltage. GREEN Neutral voltage is 6V or less and the conditions are safe. BLUE Neutral voltage is between 7 & 15V and requires assessment. AMBER Neutral voltage is between 16 & 32V and requires a risk analysis. RED Neutral voltage is >32V and is unacceptable.
The operator is instantly aware if a green light shows, the neutral voltage is within limits and the connection can be made safely. If any other colour shows, some action is required.
Automatic Self-Test At switch on the Volt-Tree automatically selftests and cannot be interrupted by the operator. An internal test voltage corresponding to each threshold of neutral voltage is generated causing each of the coloured LED’s to light in sequence. The final test is at 120V to ensure the Volt-Tree will indicate mains voltage. At the completion of testing or at any time, the self-test can be re-initiated to fully conform to AS4741.
Continuity Testing As an added convenience a visual and audible continuity test is included.
Independent Earth AS4741 requires tests to be referenced to an independent earth because traditional earths such as metallic water pipes can no longer be relied on as an effective earth. Since the introduction of plastic water pipes and long before the introduction of AS4741, Pacific Test Equipment has manufactured Trailing Earth leads to facilitate polarity and neutral integrity testing. The Pacific Test Trailing Earth lead features a stainless steel helical stake with an integrated cable spool and 20m of super-flexible cable. The free end of the cable can be either a male or female 4mm safety shrouded banana connector to suit the instrument it is used with.
Page 18 - Australian Power & Energy News
INSULATION TESTERS FOR THE POWER INDUSTRY AEMC 6505, 5050 – 5070 5kV MEGOHMMETERS • Test Voltages from 40 to 5,000V • Insulation Resistance to 10TΩ • Automatic PI & DAR Testing • Measurement of Capacitance & Leakage Current • Step Voltage & Graphical Display (5070 only)
AEMC 6550/6555 10 & 15kV MEGOHMMETER
• Test voltages from 40 to 10,000 or 15,000V • Insulation Resistance to 30TΩ • Ramp and step voltage modes • Graphical Display • Timed tests to 100 minutes • Stop test thresholds • Automatic PI, DAR & DD Testing • Measurement of Capacitance & Leakage Current • Memory for 80,000 measurements & DataView software • Cat 4, 1000V
AEMC 6527 1kV MEGOHMMETER • Test Voltages of 250, 500 & 1000V • Insulation Resistance to 4GΩ • Auto hold • Test Lock • Continuity ranges of 400Ω & 400kΩ • Voltmeter to 600V AC/DC • Cat 4, 600V
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 19
Redeveloped Aurora Training Centre to be NBN training hub A
URORA ENERGY’s redeveloped Mornington Training Centre will be a hub for NBN skills training, as well as continuing in its core role as an electrical trades training centre for Tasmanians working on the state’s electricity distribution system. Tasmanian Premier Lara Giddings, Aurora Energy CEO Dr Peter Davis and Skills Institute CEO Malcolm White officially opened the redeveloped MTC recently. Dr Davis welcomed the $4.5 million redevelopment of the MTC, which was originally built in 1966 as part of the former Hydro Electric Commission’s Clarence depot, and said the upgrade would extend the working life of the facility by at least 40 years. “The redeveloped MTC includes a new all-weather poles and wires training facility, a new 10-kilowatt solar panel array, the new telecommunications training room, five new general training rooms, and a new facility for training in metering and switchboard testing,” Dr Davis said. Dr Davis also welcomed the input of Skills Tasmania, which contributed $500,000 towards the joint development of a specialised telecommunications training facility to assist in the roll-out of the NBN in Tasmania. “This redevelopment cements a key partnership with the Skills Institute, which has supported the training and skills development of Aurora staff over many years. With the NBN rollout now underway, the new telecommunications training facility is a natural alignment for both organisations. “This is the only facility of its type in Tasmania, and there is now expanded scope for its use by other organisations seeking industryspecific training in electricity distribution infrastructure. “Electricity distribution and transmission are high technology activities, and the MTC now offers modern facilities to ensure that electrical workers from Aurora and the wider industry are kept up-to-date on the latest technology and work practices.
Above: (left to right) Skills Institute CEO Malcolm White, Aurora CEO Dr Peter Davis and Premier Lara Giddings at the redeveloped Mornington Training Centre. (Photographer: Sam Adams) “The redevelopment has also improved the efficiency and sustainability of the MTC. The training centre buildings have been fully insulated and double-glazed, rainwater is harvested and stored for on-site irrigation, and the 10kW rooftop solar panels are used to generate electricity when they are not required for training purposes.” Dr Davis said that the upgraded MTC also houses Aurora staff from the Training, Standards and Audit, and Electrical Inspection teams. Aurora will be offering the following courses at the MTC: • Fibre-optic cable induction; • Fibre installation for line-workers; • Network access for fibre-optic; • High voltage and low voltage line work; • Switchgear operation; • Occupational health and safety; • Power systems safety rules; • Service connections; • Polarity training, and • Pole and line inspection.
Above: (l to r) Rolfe Brimfield (Aurora, Manager Training Standards and Compliance), Premier Lara Giddings and Aurora CEO Dr Peter Davis vieweing the new all-weather poles and wires training facility. (Photographer: Ben Lohberger) Page 20 - Australian Power & Energy News
The Skills Institute will be offering the following courses at the MTC: • NBN safety and awareness; • Fibre-optic splicing; • Splicing termination; • Network testing; • Pit and pipe work for cable haulage; and, • Units of Certificate II in Telecommunications.