A completed switchroom awaiting transport in the yard

Client

BHP

Location

Newman, WA

Industry

Mining

Overview

Jimblebar iron ore processing hub is located approximately 39km East of Newman, Western Australia. Jimblebar is one of five mines and four processing hubs that make up Western Australian Iron Ore (WAIO) – an integrated system of joint ventures connecting 1000km of rail infrastructure and port facilities.

The Jimblebar Intermediate Pump Station (IPS) assists in transferring surplus water from the Jimblebar operation to Ophthalmia Dam.

Scope

Intellect Systems was engaged to design, manufacture, test and commission a transportable switchroom for the Jimblebar Intermediate Pump Station complete with:

  • 4000A LV MCC (Arc Fault Contained)
  • Remote Switching Panel
  • PLC & Marshalling Panel
  • VESDA Panel
  • Fire Indication Panel (FIP)
  • L&SP Distribution Board

Smarter Solutions

A purpose-built transportable switchroom was commissioned at Jimblebar to enhance operational and environmental resilience at the Intermediate Pump Station. The switchroom accommodates the new 4000A Arc Fault contained MCC (complete with four 560kW Soft Starters, ARC Fault Detection and PLC), Remote Switching Panels, Fire Detection and HVAC.

Although it was initially requested to leverage existing equipment, the strategy shifted to a complete replacement to de-risk, reduce lead times, and ensure compliance with warranty standards.

Intellect Systems provided technical support throughout the construction and commissioning stages, using a ‘plug and play’ approach to set up and commission the switchroom, MCC, HVAC and Fire Detection in Perth before on-site deployment.

By entrusting Intellect Systems with the design, procurement, and early commencement of construction, the overall lead time between design and commissioning was significantly reduced. The project successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of a streamlined approach, ensuring efficiency and a prompt return to service.

The Jimblebar Intermediate Pump Station project showcases Intellect Systems’ expertise in delivering comprehensive and innovative solutions, contributing to the efficiency and reliability of critical operational technology infrastructure.