A complete solution for BHP’s tailings storage facility

Supporting Australia’s mining sector with tailored solutions, expert service and a commitment to excellence.

The team at Advanced Piping Systems has been proudly supplying BHP’s most significant deposit of copper, gold, and uranium for many years. Our long-standing partnership with BHP is a testament to their trust in our expertise and high-quality products. Over the years, we have supplied fabrications and piping solutions that operate seamlessly across various parts of the mine.

Recently, a pipeline and field services contractor approached us for a critical project. The contractor needed a tightly spaced steel skid structure and a robust solution for a tailings storage facility at the Olympic Dam site. This facility is vital in storing the toxic waste and sludge generated by the mine’s processing plant. In addition to handling hazardous materials, it must protect the surrounding environment and local wildlife, particularly native birdlife.

Our ability to deliver comprehensive solutions made Advanced Piping Systems the ideal choice for this project. Our QLD Business Development Manager, Matthew Gooden, explained why the contractor contacted us.

“They knew us from years in the industry and chose us because we could handle the entire project. We worked with both steel and poly pipes, performed assembly and hydro-testing, and offered the flexibility for them to visit our premises to check on progress,” Matthew said.

Being based in Adelaide, close to the Olympic Dam site, gave us a distinct advantage. “We are local to the area and operate from large, well-equipped premises, which allowed us to efficiently accommodate all the project’s requirements,” Matthew added.

Delivering a custom-built solution

For the tailings storage facility, our team took on several responsibilities, including:

• Polyethylene Fabrication: Creating custom poly pipe solutions tailored to the project’s specifications.
• Supply of Fittings: Providing the necessary fittings to ensure optimal functionality.
• Steel Skids: Fabricating and painting steel skid structures for durability and performance.
• Hydro Testing: Conducting thorough hydro tests to guarantee the system’s integrity.
• Quality Assurance: Following stringent quality checks to ensure every component meets the required standards.

By managing every aspect of the project in-house, we offered a streamlined process that saved time and reduced complexity for the contractor.

Overcoming challenges with expertise and flexibility

Projects of this scale and importance often present challenges. This one was no exception. We faced multiple design and testing specification hurdles along the way. However, our team remained proactive and adaptable. By collaborating closely with the contractor, we solved problems as they arose, ensuring the final product met all expectations.

One of the standout achievements of this project was delivering a complete one-lift solution. The entire system was preassembled, thoroughly tested, and ready for immediate installation upon arrival at the site. This approach minimized onsite work and allowed the contractor to deploy the solution efficiently.

“We provided a one-lift solution that was tested, assembled, and ready to go,” Matthew said. “The contractor could take it straight to the site with confidence that everything would function as needed.”

Supporting the Mining Industry with Proven Solutions

This project highlights our ability to deliver prefabrication solutions that meet the complex needs of the mining sector. Our team combines technical expertise with a hands-on approach to ensure each project is executed to the highest standards. Whether tackling tight deadlines, meeting stringent specifications, or providing custom solutions, at Advanced Piping Systems, we deliver results you can rely on.

Let’s Work Together

If you’re looking for innovative and reliable prefabrication solutions for your next mining or industrial project, contact our experienced sales team today. We’re here to help with everything from initial consultation to final delivery, ensuring your project is a success.

For more information, visit the Advanced Piping website.