Overview

SAGE was appointed to design, supply, install and commission the main process control system for the Compass Resources Browns Oxide Project.

The project was located at Batchelor, 100 km south of Darwin.

The scope of works included the design, supply and commissioning of the control and SCADA system as well as the integration of multiple vendor packages into the overall system. SAGE was responsible for the Factory Acceptance Testing and played a major role during the onsite commissioning.

Solution

As per client specifications, the control system was implemented based on Allen Bradley SLC 500 PLC’s located in each of the four main MCC’s. The main PLC and vendor packages are communicating via a fibreoptic network in ring topology.

The SCADA system was implemented using Citect V7 compromising two redundant I/O servers and three operator workstations.

The plant comprised of more than 15 separate areas, with a total of 250 DOL starters, 100 speed variable drives, 50 process control drives and 150 PID loops.

3rd party vendor packages were integrated by SAGE in the boiler, acid storage, flocculent, air supply, potable water RO, grinding and electro winning areas.

SAGE had full control system responsibility over the fuel supply MCC, process water, crushing, acid leach, CDD thickener, resin in pulp, solvent extraction, and tailings areas.

Areas still under construction include the SCADA integration, test and commissioning of the iron precipitation and nickel cobalt precipitation areas.

Result

SAGE successfully integrated 250 DOL starters, 00 speed variable drives, 50 process control valves and 150 PID loops

SAGE project managed the complex and highly remote site commissioning.