Australian Power & Energy News

Please see our editorials and advertisement on pages 12, 13 and 17

VOL. 17 NO. 91 - April/May 2013

Print Post No. PP100000928

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

TransGrid’s Ground Breaking Western Project Sparks Into Life Pages 4-7

Cable pulling through a main substation at the Haymarket end of the tunnel

Spotlight Feature Overhead/ Underground Pole Line Hardware Equipment Feature Pages 8-15

Munno Para substation receives go ahead

Generation Plant Arrives at Mungullah Power Station

Above: Aerial view of Mungullah Power Station

C

RANE operators were busy recently taking delivery of four 50-tonne engine generator units at Carnarvon’s new 18 megawatt (MW) Mungullah Power Station and placing them carefully on pre-laid concrete pads.

The power station is being built to replace the existing Carnarvon Power Station that was built more than 45 years ago. The new station will comprise an improved dual-fuel system, using both diesel and gas generating technology to enhance security of the town’s power supply and meet the town’s future needs.

Horizon Power Project Manager Kim Bryan said there will be a total of 10 generators installed at the power station: five diesel and five gas fired generators.

“The gas fired generators are the prime power units and will provide base power to Carnarvon, and the diesel generators will provide peak load generation to assist the gas units when there is high demand during the hotter months of the year,” said Mr Bryan.

“The manufacture of another four generation units at the factory is complete and were delivered to site at the end of February, with the final two units delivered in early March.”

This project milestone follows another

significant achievement in September 2012 when the power station site was connected to the Dampier to Bunbury Gas Pipeline Carnarvon Lateral which will enable the power station to generate electricity efficiently using natural gas as its main fuel source.

Once the Mungullah Power Station is in service, power will cease to be generated from the existing Carnarvon Power Station. This will reduce the noise pollution experienced by some local residents. The existing power station will be retained as standby generation for a period of time and then decommissioned.

Notes: Horizon Power is building the 18 megawatt (MW) Mungullah Power Station six and a half kilometres away from the Carnarvon town centre. It will include an improved dual-fuel system, using both gas and diesel generation technology to enhance security of Carnarvon’s power supply and allow for the town’s future power needs.

Horizon Power has worked alongside the traditional owners and custodians of the area, the Yinggarda People, throughout the project.

Mungullah is the Aboriginal name in the Yinggarda language for the hill on which the power station is located.

The project is funded by State Government and Horizon Power will build, own and operate the new power station.

Above: High voltage (HV) cable installation between the generators and HV switchroom

ElectraNet, South Australia’s high-voltage electricity transmission network service provider, has received approval from the Development Assessment Commission to commence construction of a new substation in Munno Para. Initial geotechnical investigations of soil conditions have been completed and site works are anticipated to commence mid-2013.

The new Munno Para substation project is driven by SA Power Networks’ need to provide additional power to the northern suburbs electricity distribution network. The 30-year Plan for Greater Adelaide has identified the northern suburbs as a key area for residential growth. The new substation will ensure that increasing demand for electricity in the area can be met. A site near the corner of Dalkeith and Coventry Roads had been selected for its proximity to existing ElectraNet transmission lines and SA Power Networks distribution lines.

“After extensive community engagement and conceptual design refinements, it is very pleasing to obtain approval for the Development Application without any objections. The plans

Above: Pi type pole structure found in the Munno Para area

Portable cooling on the move

Above: the lifting of a generator onto the concrete pad

Publisher:

AUSTRALIAN POWER INDUSTRY NEWS PTY LTD ACN 109 354 467

ABN 49 109 354 467

Publishers of:

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

Circulated to all key personnel within the Australian Port Authorities and Associated Port Industries throughout Australia and New Zealand

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’) Page 2 - Australian Power & Energy News

that were submitted for the new Munno Para substation had undergone conceptual design refinements in response to feedback received from neighbouring residents during the project’s community engagement phase,” said ElectraNet Acting Executive Manager Network Services, Mr Simon Emms.

The revisions included moving the substation southwards, away from Dalkeith Road by an additional 30 metres and relocating access driveways to minimise views into the site.

This solution was considered to strike the best possible balance between feedback received from the community, and technical, safety, environmental and cost-related requirements.

“The new Munno Para Substation will deliver high-voltage power to the site that will then be transformed to a lower voltage and distributed by SA Power Networks to the surrounding suburbs. It will cater for the requirements of the surrounding communities in the City of Playford and Town of Gawler,” Mr Emms said.

Further details of the construction schedule will be developed in the coming months, once site studies and detailed design are completed.

R

ECENTLY, the first of 20 temporary cooling towers were moved into place at Wallerawang Power Station to cool the water from Unit 7 in the absence of 7A cooling tower.

The cooling towers for Unit 7A became inoperable when part of the support structure gave way in January 2013. Now that the site has been made safe and the repairs are under way, the focus has been on bringing the cooling capacity up to the needed levels while the repairs are taking place over the next few months.

Luke Welfare, Delta General Manager Western Region said that “Looking much like two shipping containers on top of each other, the temporary cooling towers arrived at site on the back of large semi-trailers. The twenty temporary cooling towers will be installed adjacent to the current cooling towers and will be attached to existing plant infrastructure”.

Luke Welfare added “With the installation of temporary cooling towers and the completion of the planned outage that is underway at the moment, we are looking forward to seeing how the temporary cooling towers perform”.

Australian Power & Energy News - Page 3

Western Sydney Supply Project How TransGrid is rolling out this vital piece of infrastructure with innovation at the core THE Western Sydney Supply Project is a major investment to secure the region’s power supply for the future. t’s just one part of a five year plan by TransGrid to build new or upgrade existing substations and transmission lines across New South Wales to ensure the safe and reliable delivery of electricity across the state, into the future.

I

TransGrid, of course, is the owner, operator and manager of the New South Wales high voltage transmission network.

The 12,600 plus kilometres of transmission line connect the generators, like power stations and wind farms, to customers and distributors like EnergyAustralia and Integral Energy.

The transmission network carries energy around New South Wales and also connects to Queensland and Victoria to allow interstate energy trading.

As a result of early planning, back in 2006, with EnergyAustralia there was confirmation of a need for additional high voltage supply points in the metropolitan area by the summer of 2012/13.

So the work began.

In 2007 the Western 500kV project from Bayswater-via Wollar-Mt Piper to Marulan reinforced the backbone of NSW transmission.

It is intended that a 500kV link be made to Western Sydney from the 500kV at Marulan to cater for the predicted growth of demand in the Sydney Basin.

WSSP consists of an aerial twin 330kv connection from Sydney West substation at Eastern Creek to a new 330/132kv substation at Holroyd and an underground twin 330kV connection from Holroyd to a new 330/132kv substation at Rookwood.

TransGrid is currently installing a new 330kV underground cable between new substations at Holroyd and Potts Hill.

Of particular interest has been the 330Kv

Above: Horizontal Direction Drill (HDD) set-up at the Canal Reserve Aqueduct cable installation from Holroyd to Rookwood Rd, which is: • approximately 8 kilometres in- land owned

by Sydney Water Corporation and used for pipelines and other infrastructure associated with Sydney’s water supply; • about 7 kilometres in the Lower Prospect Canal Reserve – an open space corridor occupied by the historic lower canal (now partly backfilled) and used as a cycle-way and walkway; and • short sections of the route on public roads.

There have been challenges faced and met successfully.

Because for these cable circuits, TransGrid will, for the first time, adopt a cable insulation technology known as Cross-linked Polyethylene (XLPE).

This insulating technology is being widely adopted across the world and is currently the dominant technology for high voltage and extra high voltage electricity cables.

XLPE is a solid form of insulation which differs from the types of cable that TransGrid adopted in the late 1970s and continued with into the early 2000s – those were fluid filled (with oil). XLPE removes the need for complex oil management systems along the cable circuit, which pose a risk to the environment, and

allows for reduced operations and maintenance requirements. These 330kV XLPE cables will be the first of their magnitude installed in Australia.

A route assessment included: • services search • historical land usage • future developments under consideration • trial holes • soil classification and contamination • thermal resistivity of the soil It was carried out on the proposed cable route to determine feasibility, constraints, and to develop a baseline set of design information for prospective contractors.

The most significant component of this assessment was the testing of local soil thermal resistivity conditions at 100 metre intervals along the cable route. This is a critical parameter in designing the cable installation arrangement as it directly influences the width of the trench required.

A separate study of Native and European heritage was conducted along with an Ecological study.

TransGrid prepared a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) which is a public document describing the environmental

assessment of the route in accordance with NSW Planning & Environment regulations.

This document was placed on public display for comment.

As with most cable projects that span over a long distance, there are many stakeholder interactions that must be managed in order for the project to be carried out smoothly and with the support of the wider community. Along the Holroyd to Rookwood Road cable route, key stakeholders include:

• Sydney Water The cable route shares the Sydney Water aboveground pipeline corridor for approximately 8 km between Guildford and Potts Hill. This would result in a long parallel installation between two 330kV cable circuits and 1.8m diameter metallic aboveground pipelines approximately 100 years old and heritage listed – separated by a distance of approximately 5-8m.

The expertise from a variety of specialist consultants were required to address issues related to vibration and deflection, earth potential rise (EPR), step and touch potential, corrosion, communications and control signaling interference and electromagnetic fields (EMF).

• Canal Reserve Action Group (CRAG) The cable route shares a corridor with a recreational cycle way that has been established on top of an heritage canal for approximately 7 km. CRAG is a community action group that has been formed with the intention to protect the history of the canal reserve and support the local interests of community members who use the cycle way as a key recreational avenue in Western Sydney.

• Local Councils (Holroyd, Parramatta and Auburn) • RailCorp – two crossings with commuter railway track were required.

• Australian Rail and Track Corporation (ARTC) – one crossing with a freight rail line was required.

The cable circuits have been designed to be a fully cross-bonded cable system.

To address the issues with Sydney Water in terms of EPR, an innovative earthing design was adopted which would essentially transfer

Above: Cable Testing at Manufacturer’s Facility Page 4 - Australian Power & Energy News

(Continued on next page)

Western Sydney Supply Project How TransGrid is rolling out this vital piece of infrastructure with innovation at the core (Continued from previous page) any earthing points required along the 8 km of cable within the Sydney Water corridor to areas outside of that. This required the installation of an Earth Continuity Conductor (ECC) which would be tied to earth outside of the SW corridor and run parallel to the cable circuits to allow the required earthing to take place.

This design helped alleviate a major concern regarding the staff safety and functionality of SW assets.

At cable joint bays, a specially designed layout between the two cable circuits, where the various pits required for each circuit at each joint bay were positioned on top of the adjacent circuit, was developed to minimize the width and length required as the corridor available was limited due to environmental constraints and long term operational requirements.

As these cables will be the first 330kV XLPE cables on the TransGrid’s high voltage network, it was crucial to take additional measures to prove the technology could be designed, manufactured and operated as per TransGrid’s high reliability standards.

Testing of cables at the manufacturer’s facilities is a critical part of the quality and reliability assurance process. In this case, TransGrid have developed specific tests for the cables to be carried out by the manufacturer to ensure that the cable system could withstand the conditions that it could be potentially operated at in during their life time. These tests are due to be carried out in June 2013 and will be a world first for XLPE cables.

The work to install the cables was awarded as a Design & Construct Contract package with the all the information obtained from the route assessment and the REF as baseline for the tender and design.

The main construction technique adopted was to install the XLPE cables into uPVC conduits encased in concrete – the cable designers adapted the phase spacing and configuration of these conduits based on the soil conditions tested at regular locations along the route. Using the base line information it was possible to prefabricate concrete ballast members with predefined spacers to restrain the uPVC conduits during installation to ensure consistent and accurate geometry and quality of concrete placement.

Other construction techniques adopted

Above: Night works for major road crossing

ABOVE: Installation adjacent to the Canal Reserve Cycle Way included, bridges over other infrastructure, horizontal directional drilling (HDD) and thrust boring under other infrastructure.

Road crossings encountered along the route required site specific traffic management plans to be developed to trench across up to 6 lanes of traffic on major road arterials such as Cumberland Highway and Woodville Road. Due to the traffic constraints imposed, some major road crossing were required to be completed only as night work.

Within the canal reserve cycle way corridor, a HDD was utilised to enable the installation of the power cable conduits underneath a creek situated adjacent to a historic aqueduct

structure while having minimal impact on the environment. The depth of installation and thermal resistivity (TR) of the surrounding soils dictated the phase spacing for the individual drills holes to ensure that the required cable rating would be met taking into account mutual heating of the conductors and other external factors. Due to the angle of approach to drill such bores (approx 20 degree) it was vital that physical protection of such critical cables be ensured by starting the drill in a rock formation and remaining in the rock formation all the way.

Accuracy of the drilling for such infrastructure requires 3 dimensional tolerances to ensure that the infrastructure was installed as designed.

For bridge crossings, specially designed cable bridges were developed specific to the installation of these 330kV cables to ensure that certain design and constructability requirements were met. The bridge designs made use of six individual bridge beams (one for each cable phase) which can be lifted into place individually and then tied together to form the final bridge structure. The use of individual beams was critical to reduce the weight of each lift which meant that smaller cranes could be used to suit the local transport and site setup restrictions.

(Article supplied by Frank Coletta/Kek Tang and John Hempstead)

Above: Joint bay excavation and installation Australian Power & Energy News - Page 5

Diona Leads the way in High Voltage Cable Installation bridges over the railway lines at Regents Park, Guildford and Potts Hill as well as a similar bridge over Duck Creek.

Directional drilling to be conducted under the water at the Potts Hill will undoubtedly present its own set of unique challenges.

A highlight of the project is the use of a particular type of cable insulation technology known as Cross-linked Polyethylene (XLPE).

Although it is now the preferred insulation for high voltage and extra high voltage electricity cables in many parts of the world, this will be the first time it’s being used in Australia for 330kV cables. TransGrid has adopted the technology to insulate the 330kV cables and it has many benefits as it removes the need for the traditional and complex fluid-filled systems normally used along the cable circuit. The use of XLPE will all but eliminate any risk to the environment and reduces maintenance requirements associated with the previous insulation methods.

ransGrid’s Western Sydney Supply Project (WSSP) is yet another vital component in that company’s major investment in New South Wales.

T

The WSSP is also part of TransGrid’s five-year plan to secure the NSW power supply to meet the state’s future demand for electricity. Significantly, between 2010 and 2014 and including projects already completed, TransGrid will undertake more than 88 major projects across NSW. TransGrid owns, manages and operates the high voltage transmission network in that state and given the innovative approach to this major project it’s significant that the company awarded the contract to Diona Pty Ltd in a joint venture with J Power Systems (JPS), a company which specialises in the manufacture of high voltage cable.

In simple terms the Western Sydney Supply Project will result in an aerial twin 330kv connection from Sydney West substation at Eastern Creek to a new 330/132kv substation at Holroyd. It will also include and an underground twin 330kV connection from Holroyd to a new 330/132kv substation at Rookwood.

The Diona and JPS joint venture is an ideal combination for such a complex and challenging project as both companies are proven specialists in their respective fields.

Diona is responsible for the design of the route for the cable and the laying of the cable as well as the design and construction of associated civil infrastructure. The company is also the principal contractor for OHS requirements and is responsible for environmental issues related to all site works including cable jointing conducted by JPS. JPS has designed the cable system and is responsible for the manufacture of the cable and accessories as well as cable jointing, commissioning, operation and maintenance training.

This is not the first time that the Diona and JPS (formerly Mitsui) have worked in partnership on behalf of TransGrid, having successfully completed the MetroGrid Cable 42 – Picnic Point to Haymarket Underground Cable. This particular underground project involved the design and installation of a 28km stretch of power and optical fibre cable as part of an upgrade to secure the future supply of electricity for Sydney residents.

Diona Project Manager Steven Ross emphasised the effective and valued relationship between his company and JPS which has been cultivated since that initial project.

“There are many benefits when you’re working with such an experienced cable manufacturer and our two companies are a perfect fit on a complex project like this. Not only do we both believe in achieving high standards of quality in any work we do but any unexpected challenges which may arise are easily overcome because communication between JPS and ourselves is open and transparent.

It is a feature of our partnership that ensures that problems are quickly resolved. Of course working for TransGrid is always enjoyable and a huge advantage because their experience in the power sector is second to none.”

DIONA MEETS THE PROJECT CHALLENGES HEAD ON

Above: Cable pulling through the Alexandria Service Tunnel which is approx 30m below the surface

Page 6- Australian Power & Energy News

DIONA - A 30 YEAR JOURNEY AND A WEALTH OF EXPERTISE The Western Sydney Supply Project is extensive and is being conducted in four separable portions

by Diona.

Separable Portion 1 (SP1) covers the overall design and planning process. It includes all the work associated with the design of the integrated cable systems and also incorporates all of the cable joints, terminations and associated cable sub-systems.

This stage also includes the design, planning and methodology of cable installation and any of the special structures associated with the three other Separable Portions (SP2, SP3, and SP4).

This element includes consideration for pipeline crossings, railway crossings, creek crossings, retaining walls, and wall cleating systems that would be required for each cable section.

In all planning for the route of the integrated 330kV XLPE cable Diona had to consider any obstacles or restraints associated with the route as well as the environmental impact and logistics related to the Sydney Water pipeline corridor and the Canal reserve Cycleway.

This process also features the accommodation of associated technology such as Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS), Partial Discharge (PD) monitoring, and Condition Monitoring System (CMS).

Separable Portion 2 SP2 covers specific work related to the cable connection between Sydney Park and Haymarket.

This involves the preparation of the route and the installation of a single circuit 330kV cable. The route will take the cable through the 3.5 kilometre MetroGrid tunnel prior to connection with the Haymarket Substation. The route taken by the cable is approximately 3.7km in total with most of the work taking place within the MetroGrid tunnel.

The challenges faced in the execution of SP2 were demanding and required some initiative from Diona’s project team. For instance, installation of a particular section involved a 1300 metre length of cable which weighed 43kg/m and had a diameter of 150mm. To accommodate the cable ‘roll-out’ a 5.5m wide drum with a 4.3m diameter which weighed 48 tonne was required. Obviously, with such a long and heavy cable, ensuring that the appropriate tension remained at a safe operating level during installation was a major concern.

To overcome this particular challenge, the project team developed a motorised roller system to work in conjunction with cable hauling machines (Caterpillars). These were synchronised to match the winch and cable drum speeds and the system was extremely effective and the team were then able to install long sections of the cable without use of a winch.

Installing the cable within the confines of the MetroGrid tunnel had its own set of logistical challenges. Not least was the fact that once a section of cable had been installed it effectively blocked access along that section. The initial plan had been to backfill the section using a dry 14:1 sand/cement mix but this was both labour intensive and a slow process due to the restricted tunnel access.

So again the Diona project team rose to the challenge by backfilling the section with thermal stable bedding (TSB) pumped into the tunnel.

However, initially the concept itself had its own limitations because the traditional properties of a TSB mix make it difficult to pump over a long

distance and access to the tunnel was limited to a number of shafts approximately 600 metres apart.

To overcome the logistical problem Diona worked with pumping contractors Demartin and Gaspirini as well as Holcim to develop and test various pumpable mixes to determine their effectiveness and whether the mix could be pumped over the required distance which included withstanding a 25m vertical drop from the shaft at street level to the tunnel floor.

This strategy proved to be very effective and the Diona project team were able to backfill up to 200 lineal metre cables in each working shift.

Of course, one of the challenges when the team was working within the narrow confines of the MetroGrid tunnel was to avoid any contact with the existing high voltage lines that had been installed previously when the tunnel was built. To further complicate matters, a new tunnel drainage pipe system was also constructed as part of the cable installation process.

Separable Portion 3 SP3 covers the cable’s 7.0 kilometre journey under the ground from Holroyd to Guildford.

This portion features all the work required for the installation of a double circuit 330kV underground cable which will be installed adjacent to the Canal Reserve Cycle Way between TransGrid’s Holroyd Substation and Sydney Water’s Guildford Pipehead facility. It includes construction of all the duct banks and a directionally drilled crossing of Aqueduct Creek.

To overcome various challenges faced during SP3, careful planning and scheduling was required.

Public access to the Canal Reserve Cycleway had to be maintained during construction and as the canal is heritage listed, special care was required during construction with the canal walls under constant surveillance using a vibration monitor to ensure the integrity of the walls was maintained.

Managing traffic flow and the inherent dangers of working on a busy road were all part of the challenge during construction of the open cut crossing of the busy Cumberland Highway. This scenario also affected work related to SP4 and the construction of an open cut crossing of Woodville Road.

Separable Portion 4 SP4 includes all works related to the installation of a double circuit 330kV underground cable which will travel from Guildford to make the connection with TransGrid’s new 330/132kV substation on Rookwood Road. 8000 metres of duct banks will need to be constructed and at the time of writing over 1000 metres has been completed.

The cable’s route will essentially sit within the Sydney Water pipeline corridor and is approximately 8.5 kilometres in length. In itself this has its challenges because the existing pipelines in the corridor are over 100 years old.

Diona has been extremely careful in managing construction activities near the pipeline. All work conducted by the project team must comply with the strict vibration and deflection limits to ensure the integrity of the 1800mm diameter, above ground pipelines. A further challenge is the need to construct two separate crossings beneath the pipelines which will require ‘pipe jacking’. This task obviously requires extra care and sensitivity to ensure that the historic pipes remain intact and the co-operation of Sydney Water in arriving at solutions to these issues is also acknowledged.

SP4 scope includes construction of three cable

Diona Civil Engineering Contractors was founded in 1980 by John and Margaret O’Connor and the company has enjoyed dramatic growth over the last 30 years. David Stramandinoli, Diona Operations Manager believes that the reasons behind the company’s success is due to, not only a successful recruitment process which has ensured a broad range of highly qualified in-house skills, but a company philosophy about openness and honesty that governs the company’s relationship with its clients.

As David says; “Diona have seen an accelerated growth in recent years for a number of reasons. We have the right blend of internal skills within our workforce and the necessary experience to be able to respond with innovative design and construction methods.

We also have an extensive range of specialist plant and equipment which is maintained in peak condition but most importantly, I believe that it is our collaborative approach with clients, which instils confidence and trust in the knowledge that we can and will deliver within the bounds of any constraints to achieve the best outcome for the project.”

Diona specialises in complex urban projects and the company’s list of completed projects and its client roster certainly reflects a respected industry reputation. As David Stramandinoli suggests, it also confirms that Diona has the necessary workforce talent and the capacity to consistently deliver on behalf of its clients.

Diona is an accredited service provider for leading power sector entities such as TransGrid, Energex, Ausgrid (formerly Energy Australia) and AGL as well as Telstra the NSW State Government, Sydney Water, Hunter Water and SunWater.

The company has offices in New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia with an extensive operational capacity. Apart from being high voltage specialists, Diona provides a host of services covering all aspects of trenching, boring, drilling, and pipeline installation for water, drainage and sewer installations, as well as gas and electricity infrastructure.

Diona’s confidence in its own ability to succeed on the most difficult projects is justified having been proven over the years. It’s this firm belief in its own in-house expertise that has grown and strengthened because the company continues to achieve success having endured the critical test of time and the vagaries of an often uncertain global economic environment.

For more information about Diona visit; www.diona.com.au

Diona

CIVIL ENGINEERING CONTRACTORS Est. 1980

Leaders in design and construction of transmission and distribution cable installations.

The contractor of choice for high risk and high complexity projects.

NSW Head Of ce 5/322 Annangrove Rd Rouse Hill NSW 2155 Ph 02 8867 8000 Queensland 5/93 Pearson Rd Yatala QLD 4207 Ph 07 3380 8700 South Australia 1/5 Barrpowell St Welland SA 5007 Ph 08 8241 5544

dionapl@diona.com.au www.diona.com.au Australian Power & Energy News - Page 7

Overhead/Underground Pole Line Hardware Equipment Feature Hy-Haul Takes the Hard Work out of Cable Pushing

M

ANUFACTURING cable pushers for the power sector is nothing new for Hy-Haul but the company’s latest model, the HW116 Cable Pusher represents a generational leap in design and development.

Safety and operational efficiency were obviously two priorities in the design of the HW116 and the result is a machine that removes any need for a manual, hands-on approach. The HW116 can be controlled and operated by electric pendant or via radio remote control.

Power options include a diesel power pack, 3 phase electric connection or it can be hooked up to an excavator or similar.

Already Hy-Haul has chalked up numerous sales of its new cable pusher with Bechtel being one of its first HW116 customers using it for the Gladstone LNG project in Queensland. Other clients included Jemena/Zinfra, SP Ausnet as well as a number of international customers.

Feedback from those clients suggests that the HW116 is far superior to any equivalent product currently available.

One of the advantages is that Hy-Haul can customize the HW116 to suit the particular

task at hand and the variety of front line environmental challenges that might be faced in any given project. Both the power source and the variety of cable requirements including pushing 3 cables at one time can be accommodated by the HW116.

The HW116 has numerous safety features and includes a vertical stand which allows the cable pusher to be lifted off the ground. This feature is particularly beneficial when working in a tunnel where cables need to be kept off the ground.

It also has a supporting frame that can be used to bolt the pusher to a wall when used vertically in an elevator shaft or similar and can be bolted down when used in a trench.

The HW116 has a Ramp Guiding Edge which is a unique advantage as it overcomes tracking problems traditionally associated with other cable pushers.

The guide ensures that the grip pads ‘kiss’ the cable at all times and apart from protecting the pads the guiding edge keeps the HW116 on track. Adjustable guiding rollers also allow

Need Tunnel Brackets or Need Tunnel Conduit Supports?

Brackets or Pipe Supports?

Call 1800 626 525

Call 1800 626 525

Email sales@swiftmetal.com.au Page 8 - Australian Power & Energy News

www.swiftmetal.com.au

greater cable ‘feed’ accuracy and a consistent, smooth ‘flow’ of the cable.

The HW116 standard cable diameter is 40mm to 150 mm but it can be customised to suit individual requirements such as a 200mm cable diameter.

The hydraulic motors on the HW116 are connected mechanically and push rather than pull. Because the motors work independently of each other they provide greater protection for the pads, track and the cable itself.

When the tracks are closed mechanical grip is achieved by small amounts of pressure being exerted on the cable across a wide area rather than high pressure on a specific area of the cable.

This feature protects and secures the cable as it moves through the machine.

For further cable protection the HW116 also incorporates an adjustable pressure valve and a pressure gauge so selections can be made to suit the nature of the job.

The machine can be controlled accurately by remote control either by radio or an electric pendant up to speeds of 20 metres per minute.

Both forward and reverse movement and speed in both directions can be remotely controlled.

The HW116 has many other important features but overall its design indicates that the team at Hy-Haul understands the particular challenges faced by operators when laying cable, whether above ground or under the ground. The Australian owned company has produced a high quality, robust cable pusher which is much safer, extremely efficient and with a capacity to endure the most challenging of environments.

Hy-Haul has been manufacturing cable hauling machinery in Australia for the power and mining sectors since 1985 and the new HW116 cable pusher is yet another addition to the company’s broad range of products.

The features included in the HW116 and more importantly, its ability to perform consistently in the front line reflects that wealth of experience accumulated over the years.

For more information about the HW116 - 3 Cable Pusher visit; www.hy-haul.com.au or call Hy-Haul on 03 9553 8155.

Above: Hy-Haul’s HW116 generation 3 Cable Pusher and right with diesel power pack option

Heavy Duty Magnetic Hanging Brackets R

ENOWNED bracket manu-facturers Swift Metal Services Pty Ltd have expanded their range of brackets and hooks with, the introduction of a heavy-duty relocatable, magnetic hanging brackets for cables, hoses and pneumatic lines.

The beauty of Swift Heavy-Duty Hooks is that they are magnetic. This means they can be relocated easily, to ensure that power leads and pneumatic hoses are supported exactly when and where necessary.

Swift Heavy-Duty Brackets can be utilized to improve safety across a broad range of industrial, commercial and underground sites, including aboveground and underground mines, infrastructure tunnels and multi-story buildings.

Produced in Australia, Swift Magnetic Hanger Brackets are also ideal in manufacturing applications where large projects or machinery necessitates the use of long leads or hoses, during construction. Swift Hooks can be used to keep power leads, out harms way when using any power tools such as angle grinders and circular saws.

These relocatable hangers, profiled brackets and hooks build on the extensive range of brackets, custom supports and parts produced

by Swift Metal Services Pty Ltd, in variety of

materials including mild steel, stainless steels, aluminium and zinc plate.

For further information contact;

Swift Metal Services Pty Ltd Ph: 1800 626 525 Fax: 1300 799 373 Email: sales@swiftmetal.com.au Web: www.swiftmetal.com.au/hangerbrackets-hooks

Overhead/Underground Pole Line Hardware Equipment Feature

Tmac Crane Lift Temporary Crossarm – Successful Trial

T

HE environment around the North Coast of New South Wales is a wonderful mix of towns and rural communities in picturesque locations with agriculture and tourism the mainstays of the area.

Essential Energy is the organisation responsible for construction, operation and maintenance of the local electricity network, covering an area of around 60,000 square kilometres.

One of the many tasks which Essential Energy performs in the course of their maintenance and repair operations is the replacement of damaged or deteriorating poles.

Pole replacement operations require a team of highly trained personnel along with an arsenal of special tools and equipment.

One of the reasons pole replacement requires such skill and tooling is that the work must often be performed live to prevent loss of electricity, and therefore, loss of income to local businesses.

Power Pole Replacement Under Demanding Conditions Pole replacement is even more challenging when the electrical assets are in close proximity to major roadways.

Like the electricity network, the Pacific Highway in Northern New South Wales is essential to local businesses and residents in the area.

Interruptions to the traffic flow on this major arterial road are not only inconvenient, but also costly to local business operators.

Senior Manager of Overhead Procedures for Essential Energy, Garry Morris, recently supervised one of these difficult pole replacements in Macksville, NSW. The task involved replacement of a pole in close proximity to a narrow stretch of the Pacific Highway.

Garry explains “the goal is to complete the task in the shortest time possible while ensuring a safe environment for workers, motorists and the general public. This safe environment has to be provided without interrupting the electricity supply to the local area.”

Garry approached Juan-Carlos Munoz, Business Development Manager for Thew & McCann regarding the potential application of a product specifically designed to speed up the process of live low voltage pole replacement.

Juan-Carlos says: “We consulted with Essential Energy and other utilities about the challenges of supporting live low voltage conductors using non-insulated cranes and lifters. Live electrical work is a dangerous business so throughout the development process, the safety of the workers and public had to be paramount.”

The TMac Cranelift Temporary Crossarm “in action” in Macksville, NSW

New fixtures for attaching the main load bearing section of the arm to a crane hook had to be designed and prototyped. This task posed some challenges as the attachment points for the crane and conductors had to be strong enough to support the working load of the device but flexible enough to allow them to be located at any point along the load beam. A requirement with the goal of allowing the operator of the device to relocate any of the attachment points so that the device can be used to lift unbalanced conductor configurations without excessive tilting or twisting.

As if this wasn’t challenging enough, the design team was also instructed to use non-conductive material for all major components (even the load bearing ones!), to ensure the product would be completely safe when being used at an energised work site.

After the prototype was completed, type testing of the new device assembled in it’s proposed operating position was carried out at an independent testing laboratory. According to the relevant standards, the product was required to support several times it’s working load without permanent damage.

The Result Garry Morris explains: “The use of the new Crane Lift Temporary Crossarm has allowed us to significantly reduce the time taken to replace a damaged or failing pole. This in turn results in shorter duration road and lane closures, and continuous electricity supply throughout the process. The end result is that we are able to provide better service to our customers.”

The Solution The product development team at Thew & McCann was assigned the task of designing what would later be called the Tmac Crane Lift Temporary Crossarm, a device which can support live low voltage conductors suspended from a single crane, allowing replacement of a complete pole and its hardware without ever lowering the conductors to the ground.

The team started with the time tested Tmac Temporary Crossarm. This product was chosen as the basis for the new design because it is Australian designed and manufactured, meaning that the team had access to all of the design, development and testing data.

The TMac Cranelift Temporary Crossarm innovative design enables linesmen to work faster and safer with live conductors.

The special latch enables hook up of LV lines in a simple and efficient mode.

G. Morris - Manager Overhead Policy - Essential Energy and JC Munoz - Business Development Manager - Thew & McCann, during trial of the Tmac Crossarm at Macksville, New South Wales

If you would like more information regarding the Tmac Crane Lift Temporary Crossarm, or any other customised solution, please contact: Juan-Carlos Muñoz Business Development Manager Mob: 0423 467 744 Email: jcmunoz@thew.com.au Australian Power & Energy News - Page 9

Overhead/Underground Pole Line Hardware Equipment Feature Power and Water Corporation - securing power for the Territory’s future

D

ARWIN and its surrounding suburbs and regional areas will benefit from new and refurbished substations as the Territory continues to grow and the capacity to supply is improved.

With continuing investment in the resources sector, the region is experiencing rapid expansion in both industrial and residential developments.

The substation replacements and refurbishments will secure power supply in Darwin and its surrounds for the foreseeable future with an expected 50 year life span.

Power and Water’s program of asset condition monitoring, planning and management has seen a number of power networks assets identified as nearing the ‘end of life’ and requiring replacement.

The program also recognises development and population growth and the demands this will place on the network load growth, security and reliability of power supply.

Projects The recently completed Archer Zone Substation, near Palmerston on the southern outskirts of Darwin, supplies power to industrial developments in the outer Darwin region including Pinelands and new suburbs in Palmerston.

Two further zone substations are under construction in the suburbs of Woolner, close to Darwin CBD and Leanyer; some 20kms from Darwin CBD. Woolner introduces 66kV Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) into the power networks system. The 66kV GIS is proven technology which addresses the harsh local environmental conditions and is fully enclosed indoors as opposed to the traditional outdoor switchyard and has been chosen due to space restrictions.

Above: Archer Zone Substation

Above: (L) Peter Kwong, Power and Water Corporation (R) Bill Kmon GND - 2011 surveying early plans at Woolner Zone Substation. Below Woolner Substation 2013

(Continued on next page)

CORONA CAMERAS ...excellent tools and available now!

UÊUnparalleled range

Application of Corona Imagin g to MV & HV Ins ulator Manag ement

Issue 2, Novembe

UÊDigital and analogue

1. ABSTRACT

UÊUnique application support for ultimate effectiveness UÊExcellent Pricing!

2

by Trevor Lord and Graham Hodge Lord Consult ing Limited Christchurch, New Zealand

This paper examine networks. Therma s the current state of corona discharg l imaging has plant for many e imaging technolo been extensiv years, and ely used for the benefits are now well surveying thermalgies for high voltage electrica of its applicat established. losses from l power ion to electrica The activity using buildings UV light generat newer cousin, corona l imaging, createsnetwork problem detectio and industrial proving itself as a very useful ed by the impact of excessiv n and an components. diagnostic tool e electric field electronic image of corona diagnosis This paper focuses to network operato stress on air. discharge work and some Corona imaging rs concerned practical applicat on UV imaging in electrica is rapidly l power network with preserving the life ions of these of the system cameras. s, outlining the corona mechan isms at DETEC

TING ELECT RICAL CORO DISCHARGE NA

to ionise a complete electrica 2.1 in a flash-ove What is “Coron l path which r. The field would result a Discharge”?

Normal dry gradients high corona can air at standard occur over very enough to cause pressure has atmospheric the conduct short localised a dielectric breakdo temperature or. regions close and 3kV/mm (3 wn value of to Corona typically x 10 6 -1 happens near shape and size Vm ). The exact value approximately As the a sharp air varies with pressure increaseof the electrodes and increase the partially near the conductor become point or protrusion. conductive) s ionised s s as the air Electrical corona[1,2]. size of the conduct it has the effect of increasin (and hence discharge (commo g the apparen or. Since this just “corona less sharp, the t new ”) is a partial nly referred conduct ionisation may to discharge in an electrica not extend far ive region is the air surroun as region, thus tending l conductor 1 past this local . It occurs gradient around These high electricto limit the corona’s extent when the electric ding the conduct [4]. field gradient field by poor (“corona onset”) or exceeds s are usually a minimum design (such caused either critical the [3], strong enough value, usually in excess as choosing electric field parameters of to ionise the gradient to that permit immediately gases present 2kV/mm regions) or because become too surrounding high in localised in the something in the conduct or but not suffi air the designer’s control the environm ent not under cient a dirty has altered since or damaged installation component, increased pollution(such as , etc.).

2.2 Why is Corona Most of the noticeab Activity a Problem ? le effects of are undesira corona discharg ble. These e activity include radio interfere nce and chemica power loss, audible noise, consequential l decomposition insulator and of air with metal compon Interestingly, corona does entry damage act to suppres they pass along [5]. s voltage surges transmis sion lines but its only merit. as this is believed to be 2.2.1 Power Loss Corona power loss depend (temperature, s on factors Figure 1: Corona such as weather pressure, made visible difference between humidity, by an analog wind-speed), UV camera line operatin onset the g voltage and 1. Corona discharge voltage, electric the corona is one of four field gradient smoothness, distinct types s, conductor conductor size, of electrical breakdow surface and system frequen n of air. The others cy. Fair are: glow discharge s, sparks, and arcs.

1

NEW

Low-cost full featured CoroCAM 6D camera available now!

Ask for a demo!

www.lordpowerequipment.com.au | 1800 128 000 Page 10 - Australian Power & Energy News

r 2008

Overhead/Underground Pole Line Hardware Equipment Feature

Power and Water Corporation - securing power for the Territory’s future (Continued from previous page)

Leanyer Zone Substation located in the northern suburbs will supply power to the new suburbs of Lyons and Muirhead. It will also support Casuarina Zone Substation and local businesses, Casuarina Square shopping centre, local hospitals, medical facilities and Charles Darwin University.

Woolner Zone Substation is a replacement for Snell St Substation. It is a major 66kV transmission hub with connections to Casuarina, City, Frances Bay and Hudson Creek Zone Substations. It will also supply the surrounding suburbs of Ludmilla, Winnellie, Parap and Stuart Park.

Closer to the city, Frances Bay Zone Substation is in the second stage of its development. A second 66kV circuit will supply the zone substation, and a second power transformer and 11kV switch board extension are being installed along with 66kV GIS. The substation has been designed for increased capacity and will ultimately accommodate three incoming 66kV circuits, three zone transformers plus associated 66kV GIS and 11kV switchgear. This is stage three of the project which is expected to be completed in 10 – 15 years.

A contract has been awarded for the design and construction of the new Darwin Zone Substation which will replace the current City Zone Substation. Civil works have commenced on site. This will be a totally indoor substation also with 66kV GIS. High rise, high density developments within Darwin city will require optimum electricity supply and security. Power and Water has to cater adequately for the expected growth in demand.

East Arm and Airport zones, where significant

Above: Transformer 2 Frances Bay Zone Substation

Above: Sam Bakara Project Manager, Power and Water Corporation

Above: Frances Bay Zone Substation industrial growth is taking place, have also been identified for potential future development.

Planning at each site allows for an ultimate capacity of three 66kV lines, three transformers and associated 66kV and 11kV switch gear.

Installation of a new 22kV switchboard for Manton, Acacia and surrounds, approximately 65 south of Darwin, is underway. The 22kV Siemens switchgear is housed in cyclone coded modular building which was assembled and installed in Darwin before being transported to site.

Over the next five years the rural zone substations, McMinns and Humpty Doo, will be rebuilt. Casuarina Zone Substation in the northern suburbs will see its 66kV switchyard replaced. The Berrimah substation 12km east of Darwin city is also set for refurbishment during this time.

Meanwhile, regional areas including Katherine and Alice Springs have already seen ‘end of life’ equipment replaced and upgrade works take place.

In the regional town of Katherine, 300km south east of Darwin, a 132 kV transformer and circuit breakers have been replaced and a new switchboard installed with 22kV switch gear.

Major projects have been completed in Alice Springs, including the upgrade of the Lovegrove Zone Substation to connect the 66kV high voltage transmission from the new Owen Springs Power Station, designed to meet the town’s power needs for the next 50 years.

Power and Water is systematically working to improve the reliability and security of power supply for Territorians now and into the future.

Above: Radiator fans Frances Bay Zone Substation Australian Power & Energy News - Page 11

The combined power of two great Australian companies MSS Power – Leaders in Arc Flash &YUSFNF 4BGFUZ IBT MPOH CFFO B CSBOE UIBU JT LOPXO BOE USVTUFE GPS "SD 'MBTI QSPUFDUJPO JO "VTUSBMBTJB "T B QJPOFFSJOH CSBOE &YUSFNF 4BGFUZ IBT IFMQFE QSPWJEF BXBSFOFTT BOE QSPUFDUJPO TPMVUJPOT UP UIF JOEVTUSZ GPS "SD 'MBTI IB[BSE .44 1PXFS OPX QSPVEMZ PGGFST UIF &YUSFNF 4BGFUZ CSBOE PG TBGFUZ FRVJQNFOU JODMVEJOH BO FYUFOTJWF BOE FWFS HSPXJOH SBOHF PG RVBMJUZ "SD 'MBTI HBSNFOUT JO "VTUSBMJB BOE /FX ;FBMBOE i5IF &YUSFNF 4BGFUZ SBOHF DPWFST BMM )B[BSE 3JTL $BUFHPSJFT GSPN $BU VQ UP $BU TP UIF SBOHF DPOUBJOT TPNFUIJOH UP TVJU FWFSZ BQQMJDBUJPO BOE OFFEw BEWJTFT "OESF #PSFMM /BUJPOBM 1SPEVDU .BOBHFS GPS &YUSFNF 4BGFUZ 'PS $BU TPMVUJPOT &YUSFNF 4BGFUZ PGGFST UIF FYUSFNFMZ QPQVMBS *OEVSB 6MUSB4PGU GBCSJD JO B SBOHF PG TIJSUT USPVTFST BOE PWFSBMMT 5IJT SBOHF JT SBUFE BU DBM DN XJUI BO FYUSFNFMZ TPGU BOE MJHIU HTN GBCSJD *OEVSB 6MUSB4PGU JT USVTUFE CZ NBOZ VUJMJUJFT JO "VTUSBMJB BOE BSPVOE UIF XPSME &YUSFNF 4BGFUZ BMTP PGGFST $BU GBDF QSPUFDUJPO XJUI B DBM DN GBDFTIJFME BOE /0.&9 CBMBDMBWB i3FNFNCFS TJODF UIF SFMFBTF PG "4 GBDFTIJFME NVTU CF B NJOJNVN PG DBM DN CF DBSFGVM XIFO DIPPTJOH GBDF QSPUFDUJPO w 3FNJOET "OESF

'PS TJUVBUJPOT SFRVJSJOH $BU QSPUFDUJPO MFWFMT &YUSFNF 4BGFUZ JT UIF QSPVE EJTUSJCVUPS PG 1SPCBO HBSNFOUT NBOVGBDUVSFE CZ 30'" JO (FSNBOZ 5IFTF RVBMJUZ HBSNFOUT PGGFS DBM DN QSPUFDUJPO XIJDI JT JO UIF VQQFS MFWFMT PG )3$ QSPUFDUJPO 5IJT JT BDIJFWFE GSPN B MBZFS 1SPCBO DPOTUSVDUJPO TQFDJGJDBMMZ EFTJHOFE UP CF FBTZ UP EPO BOE XFBS 'PS TJUVBUJPOT SFRVJSJOH )3$ &YUSFNF 4BGFUZ PGGFST B /0.&9 TXJUDIJOH TVJU SBUFE BU DBM DN 5IF TVJU JODMVEFT MFH QSPUFDUPST TXJUDIJOH DPBU BOE IPPE (MPWFT BSF OPU JODMVEFE CVU BSF BWBJMBCMF TFQBSBUFMZ 5IF TVJU JT FBTZ UP EPO FOTVSJOH RVJDL DIBOHJOH UJNFT BOE DPNGPSUBCMF UP XFBS "MM PG UIF BCPWF NFOUJPOFE HBSNFOUT BSF SBUFE GPS UIF AMJGF PG UIF HBSNFOU NFBOJOH UIF QSPUFDUJPO MFWFMT EP OPU XBTI PVU BOE XJMM SFUBJO UIFJS SBUJOH GPS BT MPOH BT JU JT XFBSBCMF 'PS NPSF JOGPSNBUJPO PO UIF &YUSFNF 4BGFUZ "SD 'MBTI 1FSTPOBM 1SPUFDUJWF &RVJQNFOU 11&

SBOHF DPOUBDU .44 1PXFS

About Arc Flash &YUSFNF 4BGFUZ BOE .44 1PXFS IBWF JOWFTUFE JO FEVDBUJOH UIF VUJMJUZ BOE FMFDUSJDBM NBSLFU BCPVU "SD 'MBTI CZ GVOEJOH UIF FEVDBUJPOBM XFCTJUF XXX BSDGMBTI DPN BV 'PS BOZ JOGPSNBUJPO PS "SD 'MBTI BOE FMFDUSJDBM JODJEFOU BOE BDDJEFOU TUBUJTUJDT JOEVTUSZ QVCMJTIFE XIJUF QBQFST SFHBSEJOH BSD GMBTI BOE JUT SFMBUFE IB[BSET BOE NVDI NPSF JOGPSNBUJPO CF TVSF UP WJTJU UIF XFCTJUF 8IFO ZPV OFFE BSD GMBTI JOGPSNBUJPO WJTJU XXX BSDGBTI DPN BV

Typical Arc Flash injuries

What is Arc Flash?

"O "SD 'MBTI PS BSD GBVMU IBQQFOT XIFO FMFDUSJD DVSSFOU GMPXT UISPVHI BJS HBQT CFUXFFO DPOEVDUPST DBVTJOH B TIPSU DJSDVJU

When does it occur?

)BOE XJUI "SD 'MBTI #VSOT

"SD 'MBTIFT PGUFO PDDVS XIFO SBDLJOH JO B CSFBLFS QFSGPSNJOH TXJUDIJOH EVF UP JOTVMBUJPO GBJMVSF PS BDDJEFOUT DBVTFE CZ UPVDIJOH B UFTU QSPCF UP UIF XSPOH TVSGBDF PS TMJQQFE OPO JOTVMBUFE UPPMT

What makes up an Arc Flash? *O JUT NPTU CBTJD GPSN BO BSD JT NBEF VQ PG GPVS FMFNFOUT UIFSNBM FOFSHZ IFBU BDPVTUJDBM FOFSHZ TPVOE QSFTTVSF XBWF BOE EFCSJT &BDI PG UIFTF FMFNFOUT DBO DBVTF TFSJPVT JOKVSZ PS EFBUI UP B QFSTPO

The dangerous part 5IF NPTU EBOHFSPVT QBSU PG BO "SD 'MBTI JODJEFOU JT UIF GBDU UIBU JU DSFBUFT UFNQFSBUVSFT IJHI FOPVHI UP CVSO TLJO CVU BMTP JHOJUF OPO "SD SBUFE DMPUIJOH #VSOT EVF UP CVSOJOH DMPUIJOH BSF UIF NPTU TFSJPVT JOWPMWF MBSHF QFSDFOUBHFT PG UIF CPEZ BOE BSF NPSF PGUFO UIBO OPU GBUBM

4FWFSF "SD 'MBTI JOKVSZ UP JOOFS BSN

'PS NPSF JOGPSNBUJPO PO "SD 'MBTI WJTJU PVS FEVDBUJPO TJUF BU BSDGMBTI DPN BV PS DBCBDQPXFS DPN BV

Timed Sequence over one second of the Arc Flash

t 5IF JOJUJBM "SD 'MBTI JHOJUJPO JT BOZXIFSF CFUXFFO „ „ $

t 5IF BSD DPOUJOVFT GPS GVMM TFDPOE BT B SFTVMU PG IJHI GBVMU DVSSFOU BOE TMPX USJQ UJNFT

t 5IF HBSNFOU IBT OFWFS CFFO XPSO IPXFWFS IBT CFFO MBVOEFSFE JOEVTUSJBMMZ UJNFT

t 5IF DPQQFS JO UIF TXJUDICPBSE JT WBQPSJTFE BOE FYQBOET UP PWFS UJNFT JUT TPMJE WPMVNF

t 5IF HBSNFOU JT B EVBM MBZFS 1SPCBO DPOTUSVDUJPO PG HTN QFS MBZFS

t 1MBTNB JT HFOFSBUFE CZ UIF BSD QVUUJOH UIF HBSNFOU VOEFS JNNFOTF IFBU BOE QSFTTVSF

t 5IF NBOJLJO JT FRVJQQFE XJUI UFNQFSBUVSFT TFOTPST OPOF PG XIJDI NBZ TVSQBTT MFWFMT UIBU XPVME DBVTF TFDPOE EFHSFF CVSOT

t 5FTU 4FU 6Q t DBM DN¨ PS L" TFD SBUFE "SD 'MBTI KBDLFU SFBEZ GPS UFTUJOH

t 5IF HBSNFOU DBOOPU CSFBL PQFO BU BMM PS JU XJMM GBJM UIF UFTU

%JTUSJCVUFE CZ .44 1PXFS 4ZTUFNT ] 1PXFS 5 ] & TBMFT!NTTQPXFS DPN BV *O TVQQPSU PG PVS QPMJDZ PG DPOUJOVPVT QSPEVDU JNQSPWFNFOU XF SFTFSWF UIF SJHIU UP DIBOHF NBUFSJBMT BOE TQFDJGJDBUJPOT XJUIPVU OPUJDF %SBXJOHT XIFSF VTFE BSF OPU UP TDBMF "MM EJNFOTJPOT BSF JO NJMMJNFUSFT BOE TJ[FT HJWFO BSF BQQSPYJNBUF 8IFSF QPTTJCMF UFDIOJDBM .4%4 EBUB TIFFUT BSF NBEF BWBJMBCMF PO UIF XFCTJUF "MM QSPEVDUT TIPVME CF JOTUBMMFE BOE VTFE JO BDDPSEBODF XJUI NBOVGBDUVSFS T JOTUSVDUJPOT QSPWJEFE 8BSOJOH QSPEVDUT NBZ CF UIF TVCKFDU PG SFHJTUFSFE EFTJHOT BOE QBUFOUT 3FGFS UP XFCTJUF GPS UFSNT BOE DPOEJUJPOT PO XBSSBOUZ

Page 12 - Australian Power & Energy News

t 5IF HBSNFOU QBTTFT UIJT UFTU BU L" TFD PS DBM DN¨ t /P QBSU PG UIF HBSNFOU CSFBLT PQFO BOE OP UFNQ TFOTPS SFHJTUFS B TFDPOE EFHSFF CVSO WBMVF t " XPSLFS XFBSJOH UIJT HBSNFOU XJUI PUIFS BQQSPQSJBUF 11& XPVME IBWF IBE OPOF PS POMZ NJOPS JOKVSJFT

Extreme Safety Proudly Distributed by:

The Industry Experts in Arc Flash Protection Hood (with Hardhat) )PPE XJUI IBSEIBU 4XJUDIJOH $PBU -FHHJOHT /# (MPWFT OPU JODMVEFE

Face Shield 5FTUFE UP -FWFM /'1" $BM DN¨ (SFFO A-JHIU &OIBODJOH 5JOU WJTPS CZ 1BVMTPO 8PSO JO DPOKVODUJPO XJUI B IBSEIBU JODMVEFE

High Visibility Stripes 1PTJUJPOFE PO UIF BSNT BOE CPUUPN PG UIF TVJU UP FOIBODF WJTJCJMJUZ

Specially Designed Fabric /0.&9 ***" CZ %V1POU H N¨ MBZFS DPOTUSVDUJPO

Leg Protectors & Boots -FH QSPUFDUPST JODMVEF CVJMU JO CPPU DPWFST NFBOJOH BOZ "VTUSBMJBO 4UBOEBSE BOE "45. WPMUBHF SBUFE MFBUIFS XPSL CPPU XJUI JOTVMBUFE TPMF JT TVJUBCMF UP VTF XJUI UIF TVJU 1BSU /P TJ[F

Gloves "WBJMBCMF TFQBSBUFMZ BOE SBUFE UP DBM DN¨ 1BSU /P 9-

Arch Flash Suit – Specifications & Sizing t ' BCSJD /0.&9 ***" CZ %V1POU HTN

MBZFS DPOTUSVDUJPO

Part No.

Size

Description

Part No.

Size

Description

90-488-54-L

L

90-488-suit-L

-

90-488-56-XL

9-

90-488-suit-XL

9-

t "QQMJDBUJPO IJHI SJTL UBTLT

90-488-58-XXL

9-

90-488-suit-XXL

9-

t 4J[FT - 9- 9- 9- 9-

90-488-62-XXXL

9-

90-488-suit-XXXL

9-

t * ODMVEFT IPPE XJUI IBSEIBU

TXJUDIJOH DPBU BOE MFHHJOHT

90-488-66-4XL

9-

90-488-suit-4XL

9-

90-489

/ "

Leg protectors

90-490

/ "

Hood/face shield

t 5FTU "45. ' t "517 DBM DN¨ $BU

Switching coat

t /PU JODMVEFE HMPWFT

%JTUSJCVUFE CZ .44 1PXFS 4ZTUFNT ] 1PXFS 5 ] & TBMFT!NTTQPXFS DPN BV

Arc Flash suit includes hood (with helmet), switching coat & leggings

Extreme Safety Proudly Distributed by:

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

Australian Power & Energy News - Page 13

Overhead/Underground Pole Line Hardware Equipment Feature

Fulton Industries Australia Appointed by Ribe - Germany and Sofamel - Spain

F

ULTON Industries Australia has been appointed Exclusive Agents in Australia to represent RIBE Germany for HV Transmission Fittings.

The Agreement was secured after the Directors, Bob Fulton and Frank Sexton visited the RIBE Head Office and manufacturing facility in Germany.

RIBE – Leading International Manufacturer of Electrical Fittings RIBE is a highly respected family Company with 100 years of experience, a wide range of technologies, and the technical expertise to promote the development, design and manufacture of complex innovative products. Fittings for HV Overhead Transmission lines, Optical Cables (Optofit), Railway Catenary Systems and Engineering.

RIBE - High and Medium Voltage Grids – overhead line fittings for Insulator

Strings and Conductor Cables, Interphase Spacers and Bird Flight Diverters.

RIBE always has the right solution for Overhead Line Fittings for all types of Insulators, whether Composite, Ceramic or Glass. The spectrum of Overhead Line Fittings for DC and AC voltages ranges up to 750kV. RIBE - Optic Overhead Cables (OPGW and ADSS) – Suspension Fittings (Armour Grip Suspensions, C-Suspension Assemblies), Tension Fittings – Deadend Clamps & Tension Assemblies), Vibration Dampers, Cable Fixing Clamps and Grounding Material.

RIBE optofit are specially designed to allow for the pressure sensitivity of Optical Fibres.

RIBE have been involved in numerous large River Crossing Projects in Europe including the BOSPHORUS CROSSING, where they designed and developed special HELICAL Deadends and accessories.

RIBE’s comprehensive range also includes their unique HV Transmission Wedge Type Deadend which are not commonly seen in Australia however they are extensively used throughout Europe.

SOFAMEL S.A. is a Spanish Company dedicated to the production of Electrical Material for connection as well as Safety and Electric Protection, appointing Fulton Industries to represent them in Australia for Earthing Sets, Safety and Protection Equipment.

SOFAMEL has an extensive range of Earthing Sets with a comprehensive range of clamping heads, which can be configured to customers’ requirements.

These Earthing Sets are designed to suit both Overhead Lines and Substation Earths. A range of Fibreglass Operating Sticks are available in fixed lengths and Telescopic types to 11.8 Metres.

Working voltages up to 380kV. This range meets IEC60855 Standards.

SOFAMEL’s range of Insulating Gloves cover from 500 to 36,000 working volts and come in a choice of sizes. Leather over-gloves are available to suit the

various sizes of Insulating Gloves. The over-gloves are made from cowhide with webbed thumbs and feature a Velcro strap for the back of the hand. A pneumatic gauge is available to test gloves for any pin pricks not visible to the naked eye.

Please consult Fulton Industries Australia for further information including Test Reports.

Telephone: +61 2 4323 4242 Email: sales@fultonindustries.com.au FULTON INDUSTRIES AUSTRALIA PTY. LTD. has recently been accredited with Quality Certification in 3 areas. ISO9001 FOR Quality, ISO14001 for Environment and AS4801 for OH&S.

Management and Staff at Fulton Industries are already seeing the benefits of a complete Integrated Management System in practise.

AS4801

FULTON INDUSTRIES AUSTRALIA ACCREDITED ISO9001, ISO14001 & AS4801

RIBE - SPECIALISING IN HV TRANSMISSION FITTINGS

SOFAMEL - SPECIALISING IN ELECTRICAL SAFETY & PROTECTION EQUIPMENT

ENQUIRIES CALL - FULTON INDUSTRIES - 02 4323 4242 Page 14 - Australian Power & Energy News

TEN Hire fleet for cable hauling projects T

EN Group offers Australia’s largest range of specialist stringing equipment and is the exclusive Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Islands distributor for TESMEC stringing and cable hauling equipment.

TESMEC has been manufacturing hydraulic pullers and tensioners since 1960 and their equipment continues to be the global standard with cable hauling machinery.

In 2009 TEN Hire acquired its first delivery of stringing equipment, two twin bullwheel 90kN (2x45kN) hydraulic puller tensioners.

Today the fleet consists of a complete range of machinery and accessories for overhead and underground stringing and cable hauling applications including OPGW.

TEN Hire’s fleet includes: • Hydraulic Puller Tensioners - 25kN, 35kN, 45kN, 90kN • Hydraulic Pullers - 15kN, 35kN, 50kN • Reel winders with hydraulic reel lifters (suitable for all above listed machinery) • Cradle Reel Elevators - with disc brake • Hydraulic Drum Stands • Hydraulic Drum Elevators with connecting hose kit • Self Loading Trailers • Drum Stands 3 Tonne (with optional hydraulic powerpack) In addition, we also hire a large range of rollers, reels, ropes, swivels and specialised stringing equipment.

Above: TEN Hire typical worksite set up using the 45/90kN hydraulic Puller Tensioner featuring completely independently controlled bullwheels with hydraulic drum elevators

Above: The bullwheel grooves are made of thermally treated steel producing extremely low friction between bullwheels and conductor

Used across the globe, TESMEC machinery is built to perform in all conditions and all TEN Hire models feature bullwheel grooves made of thermally treated steel. This hard surface produces extremely low friction between the conductor and the bullwheel offering a highly efficient stringing solution to any line stringing project.

TEN Hire’s fleet is constantly evolving to meet our customers needs on large projects that demand reliability of equipment. We have two fully trained technicians that travel the nation maintaining our fleet, and training operators who hire or purchase equipment.

For more information on our fleet or to learn more about TEN’s offerings including service, repair and refurbishment for all machinery types and operator training for TESMEC machinery, give Ian ‘Scotty’ Scott a call on 0417 772 341.

Above: TEN Hire 45kN hydraulic Puller Tensioners, suitable for stringing one or two ropes or bundled conductors

HIRE AVAILABLE

the energy network

| Australian Power & Energy News - Page 15

Precipitator electrode replacement begins at Loy Yang

Above: A 100 tonne crane arrives on site for the precipitator electrode replacement project HE Unit One and Two precipitator They extract dust from the flue gases before electrode replacement project is they are released through the chimney. underway which will help improve the Therefore if our precipitators aren’t working to their full capacity, we have a greater risk of units’ dust emission performance. exceeding our dust emission licence conditions Electrodes in three electrostatic precipitator and a greater risk of lost generation due to offflows (EPF) will be replaced during the current loading.” works, at a cost of approximately $6.3 million.

A significant amount of work is required to Five of the 24 precipitator flows on Stage One complete each electrode replacement project. have already undergone electrode replacement The roof of the precipitator needs to be removed through the major capital works program which before each of the electrodes is disconnected began in 2009. In total, there are 24 EPF that and lifted out via a 100 tonne crane and the new require electrode replacement. ones lifted in.

Project Manager, Travis McInnes said the “The crane will be used for the majority replacement program was required on the two of the work so there are a number of safety units due to a design fault. risks associated with that. It also means that “The collecting electrodes in the precipitators our productivity is heavily dependent on the of Units One and Two have a design fault that weather, especially wind.” causes the electrodes to break free and move The electrode replacement works currently around. This results in electrodes touching and underway will see 1-EPF-4, 1-EPF-1 and 2shorting out,” said Travis.

EPF-5 upgraded by 30 June 2014. Each will “Precipitators are like big dust collectors. take around four months to complete.

Start of Hydro Tasmania cloud seeding program

T

Above: Work begins to remove the precipitator roof

H

YDRO Tasmania will begin its 2013 cloud seeding season on April 28. The season will run through to the end of October.

Cloud seeding makes an important contribution to Hydro Tasmania’s annual generating capacity by increasing rainfall over hydro storages. A recent Monash University study found a consistent increase of at least five per cent in monthly rainfall over seeded catchment areas.

Hydro storages are currently at 37 per cent.

This is approximately 10 per cent lower than the same time last year after a particularly dry summer period.

Catchment areas to be seeded this year are Gordon, Great Lake, Lake Rowallan, Lake Mackintosh, Lake King William, Lake St. Clair and Lake Echo (see map attached). As has been the case in recent years, there will be no seeding flights over the King River catchment area, close to Queenstown.

At the same time, Hydro Tasmania will use its cloud seeding expertise as part of a collaboration that has been awarded a highly competitive Australian Research Council (ARC) grant. The grant is for research that hopefully will improve rainfall forecasting

in important catchment areas in south-east Australia.

The Southern Ocean is the source of much of the winter rain across southern Australia.

However, some aspects of the ocean’s influence on weather patterns are poorly understood, resulting in limited ability to generate accurate long-term forecasts.

Gaining a greater understanding will support development of modelling tools that will result in improved long-term forecasting. This is vital to improving water resource management in many parts of southern Australia, including Tasmania.

The research is being led by Monash University, with support from scientists at Hydro Tasmania, Snowy Hydro, the Bureau of Meteorology, CSIRO, and the Department of Sustainability and Environment (VIC).

Hydro Tasmania will schedule flights during the 2013 cloud seeding season to coincide with the passage of satellites over the Southern Ocean, providing ‘in-situ’ validation of satellite measurements. Key measurements will be taken, including air temperature, dewpoint temperature, wind and liquid water content of the atmosphere.

Electricity field days to be reviewed T

HE annual Electricity Supply Industry Field Days event is being reviewed to better understand its benefits as the NSW electricity networks focus on a more co-ordinated approach to safety.

The event is held over two days in May each year and involves more than 2,000 electricity workers coming together at one location to compete in safety activities and see the latest field equipment from a range of industry suppliers.

It is held on behalf of the electrical Industry Safety Steering Committee (ISCC) of NSW and is hosted by

Page 16 - Australian Power & Energy News

Endeavour Energy, Essential Energy and Ausgrid on a rotating basis at different locations in NSW. Last year’s event was hosted at Coffs Harbour.

Networks NSW Executive, Network Strategy John Hardwick said the field days had been held for the past 20 years and it was now time to have a close look at the event.

“The event was originally designed to bring people from the electricity industry together to share skills and ideas on operational and safety matters,” Mr Hardwick said.

“It is now time to pause and see whether

this event is still giving us the safety outcomes we need.

“We will look at whether there are other forums that will better meet the needs of our employees, industry partners and the community.

“Safety is embedded in our businesses, and every day our employees undertake hundreds of safety programs, interactions and initiatives to help them and the community stay safe around our networks.

“Safety will always be our top priority and it has been lifted up even further by the reforms to our industry.”

All three electricity network businesses have newly appointed general managers for

safety sitting on their executive teams and there is a Group Manager Health, Safety and Environment at Networks NSW to help drive improvements to safety.

“We’re putting in place a more coordinated approach to safety to help make sure our people have the right expertise to stay safe – especially on the front-line, where it counts most,” Mr Hardwick said.

Mr Hardwick said the review of the field days event was expected to be completed mid year. This year’s event scheduled to be hosted by Endeavour Energy will not take place.

A New Online Arc Flash Training Module The Online Electrical Safety Training System (ESTS) is a support training program for Workplace Electrical Safety. As Andre Borrell, Extreme Safety Product Manager explains, ‘the training module is conducted over 4 hours and has been designed to complement your existing work practices to give you a broad understanding of Electrical Safety regarding Arc Flash’.

Module topics include Lockout, Portable Earthing, Test for Dead and NFPA 70E Arc Flash, and is widely accepted in Australia and New Zealand. On completion of each section, a Skills Assessment is required before the next section can begin. After successfully completing the entire training module, a certiďŹ cate is issued.

N.B. The Online ESTS Arc Flash Training Module is not designed to replace existing standards or work place practices. Please refer to your company policies regarding the suitability of the training module.

To complete the ESTS, please visit www.arcash.com.au

Boundaries for Arc Flash Protection and Shock - Approach Limits CAT 2 Area

Unqualified Personnel

Qualified Person

Analysis

Procedure

!" #

1.2 cal/cm2 Onset of 2nd Degree Burn

Arc Flash Protection Boundary

CAT 2 Area Unqualified Personnel +!

Continuously Escorted by Qualified Person Qualified Person

Limited

Arc Flash Protection Boundary Example of Detailed Arc Flash & Shock Warning Label

CAT 3 Area

No Unqualified Personnel Qualified Person

Analysis

Procedure

$ % " Equipment & ' *

Prohibited

CAT 4 Area

No Unqualified Personnel Qualified Person

! !

Specialised Training

Analysis

Procedure

$ % " Equipment

Exposed Energised Electrical Equipment

Prohibited

# , , CSAZ462 Table 1 / NFPA 70E Table 130 2 (C) Approved boundaries to Energized Electrical Conductors or Circuit Parts for Shock Protection

Snapshot of the Online Electrical Safety Training System (ESTS).

Visit www.arcflash.com.au for more information.

Distributed by MSS Power Systems | Power T: 1800 769 370 | E: sales@msspower.com.au In support of our policy of continuous product improvement we reserve the right to change materials and speciďŹ cations without notice. Drawings, where used, are not to scale. All dimensions are in millimetres and sizes given are approximate. Where possible, technical MSDS data sheets are made available on the website. All products should be installed and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions provided. Warning: products may be the subject of registered designs and patents. Refer to website for terms and conditions on warranty.

Australian Power & Energy News - Page 17

Musselroe Wind Farm powers up T

HE first turbines have started turning at Musselroe Wind Farm, marking the start of energy generation from the site.

The $395 million, 168 megawatt wind farm is under construction in north-east Tasmania and is due to be fully operational by July 2013.

Tasmanian Premier Lara Giddings said all 56 turbines have been erected and the first of these has now begun generating energy into the grid.

“Once the wind farm is fully operational, it will generate enough energy to supply the needs of up to 50 000 homes, equivalent to the residential power needs of Burnie and Devonport,” Ms Giddings said.

Page 18 - Australian Power & Energy News

Construction of the Musselroe Wind Farm began in December 2011, taking advantage of a world-class wind resource, sitting as it does in the path of the Roaring 40s.

“Its construction has involved significant Tasmanian input. For example, the construction of the turbine towers has been undertaken by Launceston-based Haywards and the civil engineering works were undertaken by Hazell Bros,” said Ms Giddings.

“This milestone demonstrates the continued value the Musselroe project is providing for Tasmania, in particular the north-east of the state.”

Tasmanian Energy Minister Bryan Green said the project continues to provide an economic boost to the north-east of the state.

“Musselroe has provided a much needed boost to the region, with a peak workforce of more than 200 people employed on the project,” Mr Green said.

“Once the wind farm is operational, it will provide ongoing employment for around 10 people, providing a continuing economic benefit to this part of the state.”

Hydro Tasmania’s Chief Technical and Operations Officer Evangelista Albertini said that recent weeks have brought the achievement of significant milestones for the project.

“The wind farm was physically connected to the Tasmanian electrical system in mid-March, and recent weeks have been focused on testing systems to validate that all is in good shape for the start of generation, which will continue to build over coming weeks.”

“Our involvement in wind has shown it to add considerable value through expanding Hydro Tasmania’s generation portfolio,” said Mr Albertini.

“It also complements perfectly our hydro capability, providing the renewable energy

Above: Hydro chief technical and operations Evangalista Albertini with Lara Giddings and Bryan Green certificates to meet our retail obligations and generates profit and value for our shareholders, the people of Tasmania.”

Hydro Tasmania recently finalised a deal with leading Chinese renewable energy business Shenhua Clean Energy Holdings (SCE) that saw SCE take a 75 per cent share in the Musselroe Wind Farm. Hydro Tasmania retains the remaining 25 per cent share. SCE’s main parent company, Guohua, is one of the world’s largest wind developers and brings a wealth of expertise in the renewable energy

sector. Guohua has more than 4200 MW of wind energy capability operating in China

Background information Musselroe Wind Farm Construction is nearing completion on the 168MW project, which is on schedule to be completed and operational by July 2013.

Cranes move 80 tonne switchgear P

OWER and Water Corporation continues its program of substation replacement and refurbishments to secure power supply across the Territory.

The latest replacement works for a substation involves the installation of a new 22kV switchboard for Manton, Acacia and surrounds to improve the supply and reliability for customers.

Power and Water’s Bertram Birk said this project is unique as the work to fit and test the switchboard was conducted in Darwin by Delta Electrics before being transported from Darwin to Manton.

“We made the decision to install, assemble and test the switchboard locally as we could access all the expertise through Delta Electrics and have a more economical outcome.

“It also afforded us time to prepare the site in tandem with these works,” he said.

The 22kV Siemens switchgear will be housed

in cyclone coded modular building similar to those being used in Woolner and Katherine zone substations and meets the Corporation’s design expectations.

With a total weight of approximately 80 tonne and measuring 17m x 6.5m x 4m it required two 200 tonne cranes to manoeuvre the building on to the prime mover.

The Corporation has a period contract with Delta Electrics to supply 22kV Siemens switchgear for all Power and Water high voltage substations.

Following our successful partnership in transporting the three 10.9MW turbines from Darwin Port to Alice Springs, we again employed the expertise of Tutt Bryant in transporting this load.

Tutt Bryant managed the logistics of moving this substantial mass to its permanent location at the Manton Zone Substation site.

The move took place at 7am on Monday 22 April.

Above : Manton Zone Substation site

Above: Manton switchgear being loaded

Delta Electrics, Siemens Ltd and Ergon Energy are proud to be associated with

Power & Water Corporation with the construction of

Major Transmission/Distribution and Infrastructure works at Manton Dam Zone Substation Products Supplied and Installed •

Siemens 22kV Air Insulated Switchgear

•

Ergon Energy Modular Switch Room

•

A key strategy applied to the Manton Dam Project was the off site construction and commissioning component of the Substation building and equipment

•

Installation and Project Management including the logistics of transporting the switch room from Darwin to Manton Dam was a key deliverable provided by Delta Electrics

1800 670 087 sales@deltaelectrics.com.au

www.deltaelectrics.com.au Australian Power & Energy News - Page 19

ActewAGL welcomes new apprentices and congratulates graduates “I’m proud that we can provide excellent opportunities for people from our region to kick-start their careers or, in many cases, restart their careers as mature-age apprentices.”

One of the graduating apprentices, Michelle Tifan, commenced her apprenticeship with ActewAGL in 2009 after completing a Bachelor of Science with honours at the Australian National University and working in the public service.

“I decided I wanted a career change.

Completing an electrical apprentice was the

perfect match of my science background and need to be hands-on and outdoors. I would definitely encourage other women to consider a career in a trade,” said Michelle.

Throughout her apprenticeship with ActewAGL Michelle was recognised for her talent and hard work, receiving several awards from the CIT and local industry organisations.

Michelle has received a permanent position at ActewAGL as an Electrical Fitter.

For more information about careers at ActewAGL visit actewagl.com.au/careers

Above: ActewAGL Chief Executive Officer Michael Costello and General Manager Network Services Rob Atkin with graduating apprentices (Image courtesy of ActewAGL)

ActewAGL Chief Executive Officer Michael Costello has welcomed 11 new apprentices into ActewAGL’s apprenticeship program and congratulated 13 graduating apprentices moving to permanent positions with ActewAGL. The new apprentices will train as Line Workers or Electrical Fitters across four years of on-the-job training and study at the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT). The graduating apprentices received trade certificates and have all been awarded permanent positions with ActewAGL as Line Workers, Electrical Fitters or Cable Jointers.

ActewAGL Chief Executive Officer Michael Costello said, “Training skilled workers is a critical component of keeping our electricity network as one of the most reliable in the country. Over the last 50 years, more than 400 apprentices have successfully completed their apprenticeships with ActewAGL and its predecessors.

“I’m thrilled that all 13 of our graduating apprentices were appointed permanent positions within ActewAGL – it’s a great testament to their hard work and dedication over the past four years, along with that of their teachers and trainers.

Above: Graduating ActewAGL apprentices show off their trade certificates (Image courtesy of ActewAGL)

Open day helps Queenslanders become apprentices

M

ORE than 700 Queenslanders interested in apprenticeships found out everything they wanted and then some at SkillsTech Australia’s annual Open Day at the Acacia Ridge Training Centre on Friday 10 May 2013.

SkillsTech Australia Institute Director Mary Campbell said the Open Day gave Queensland students the opportunity to tour the world-class training centre and featured hands-on activities and demonstrations of all the trades delivered at the centre.

Mrs Campbell said the TAFE’s training centre boasted: •t he largest fully functioning foundry in the southern hemisphere • a $13-million heavy commercial vehicle and diesel training facility • a $20-million electrical, refrigeration and air-conditioning training facility • an $8-million wet trades training facility • $25-million engineering and $13-million student services facilities.

“The Queensland Government had committed

more than $200 million to the development of facilities at SkillsTech Australia to address skills shortages; it really is an impressive training centre and we had lots of positive feedback from potential students,” Mrs Campbell said.

“We featured Try’a Trade activities for automotive, building and construction, electrotechnology, sustainable technologies and water, and manufacturing and engineering trades to showcase what trade training is all about.

“Our trade teachers were on-hand to speak with students to discuss what opportunities were available to them.

“There were also information stalls from Construction Skills Queensland, Manufacturing Skills Queensland, Energy Skills Queensland, Central Queensland and Griffith Universities, East Coast Apprenticeships, MIGAS, and Busy at Work to talk to prospective apprentices.”

Various schools from across Brisbane were in attendance, including Emmanuel, St Francis, Iona and St Laurence’s Colleges, as well as Centenary, Yeronga, Park Ridge and Holland Park State High Schools.

Above: SkillsTech Australia Automotive Mechanical Teacher David Zaghini talks to Years 10-12 students from Yeronga State High School at the Acacia Ridge Training Centre’s Annual Open Day on Friday 10 May Page 20 - Australian Power & Energy News

Above: With more than 300 international students training at SkillsTech Australia, students from International Language School of Canada got to Try’a Trade with SkillsTech Australia Painting and Decorating Teacher Alan Bain

Above: Mother and son duo tried out plastering with Wallboard Tools Sales Representative Steve Guest at SkillsTech Australia’s $8-milllion wet trades training facility