Safe, secure fuel storage ensures supply across Northern Territory

Vopak is the world’s largest independent tank storage provider, specialising in the storage and handling of liquid chemicals, gasses and oil products.

Vopak operate Australia’s newest and most modern terminal: the Darwin Industry Fuel Terminal.  The terminal consists of 30 tanks with a combined capacity of 173,583 cbm. It proides a critical link in the supply chain of petroleum products, chemicals and vegetables oils.

To support the Australian Government Petrol Sniffing Prevention Program, a bulk storage tank for low aromatic fuel (LAF) was required to support fuel distribution across the Northern Territory.

Vopak engaged SAGE Automation to update the terminal control system, including PLCs, SCADA and safety systems, to integrate this new tank.

Using the Intrinsic safety (IS) protection technique for the safe operation of electrical equipment in hazardous areas, SAGE worked closely with Vopak, and their mechanical, fire and electrical contractors to integrate the LAF tank with the rest of the site.

Vopak Project Manager Trent Gearside, explains the importance of a reliable control system for the facility. “The Darwin terminal is a critical link in the entire fuel supply chain for Northern Territory. Integrating a tank for the LAF product into our existing control system, without compromising the rest of the site, will ensure continuance of supply to the region and uphold our strict safety standards.”

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