DIGGING & DRILLING Magazine

AUSTRALIA • CHINA • INDIA • JAPAN • NEW ZEALAND • ASIA PACIFIC

D&D JUL-SEP 2019 • ISSUE 25

AUSTRALASIA

AUSTRALASIA’S QUARTERLY OIL , GAS & MINING MAGAZINE

FIRST LNG CARGO SHIPPED FROM SHELL’S PRELUDE FLNG ADANI’S CARMICHAEL COAL MINE MANAGEMENT PLANS APPROVED KUFPEC COMMENCEMENT OF LNG PRODUCTION FROM WHEATSTONE TRAIN 2 RIO TINTO PARTNERS WITH CATERPILLAR ON AUTONOMOUS MACHINERY

Editor’s Letter There is a lot of good news and some very big things happening in Australasia and in the energy and resources sectors. On behalf of my team, I congratulate Prime Minister Scott Morrison and his second-term incumbent minority Coalition Government for winning a third three-year term against the Labor opposition in the 2019 Australian Federal Election.

Congratulations to Shell, and its Joint Venture Partners INPEX, KOGAS and OPIC for the sailing of their first shipment of Liquefied Natural Gas from the Prelude Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) facility.

LEN FRETWELL Publisher / Managing Editor Digging & Drilling Australasia Magazine

We also congratulate ADANI on finally getting the Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems Management Plan approval for their Carmichael Coal Mine from the Queensland Labor Government.

The proposed development of an additional 20-25 trillion cubic feet of gas resources from Woodside’s Scarborough and Browse/North West Shelf Extension projects could be an economic game changer for Western Australia. The recent release of an economic impact assessment of the Burrup Hub development off the North West coast of Western Australia shows a staggering $52 billion will be spent in the State over four decades.

This development will boost Australia’s GDP by $414 billion during 2019-2063, of which 99 per cent will be in WA, which is equivalent to 23 per cent of Australia’s GDP in 2017-18. The Burrup Hub builds on the existing Pluto LNG and North West Shelf projects, linking two of the Western Australia’s largest pieces of economic infrastructure to create a regional LNG production centre on the Burrup Peninsula.

The Browns Range Project located 160km south east of Halls Creek in northern Western Australia, operated by Northern Minerals Ltd is positioned to become the first significant dysprosium producer outside of China. The recent Northern Minerals Ltd dysprosium rare earth mineral discovery could transform Australia into a major player in the electric vehicle (EV) supply chain.

Dr Alexandra Heath, RBA’s head of economic analysis says the prospects for the Australian resources sector was strong and the resources boom will be powered by India. Speaking to the Association of Mining and Exploration Companies annual conference in Perth recently, Dr Heath said India was an opportunity for Australian coking coal as India’s own reserves were small and low-quality. Demand for Australia’s iron ore would be less affected because India has high-quality hematite reserves.

The Indian government has a goal to triple domestic steel production to around 300 million tonnes by 2030. Even if slower domestic growth is achieved, demand for imported coking coal from countries such as Australia could increase because India’s coking coal reserves are small and tend to be of relatively low quality.

Best regards

Len F retwell Len Fretwell Publisher/Managing Editor

www.diggingdrilling.com

@DigandDrill

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE »

IN THIS ISSUE 3 EDITOR’S LETTER 6 APPEA 2019 10 NEWS IN BRIEF: OIL, GAS & MINING NEWS HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE QUARTER 14 FIRST LNG CARGO SHIPPED FROM SHELL’S PRELUDE FLNG 18 ADANI’S CARMICHAEL COAL MINE MANAGEMENT PLANS APPROVED 24 RIO TINTO PARTNERS WITH CATERPILLAR ON AUTONOMOUS MACHINERY 30 NEW TECHNOLOGY FOR BATTERY GRADE LITHIUM PRODUCTION

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Disclaimer: Reasonable care is taken to ensure that Digging & Drilling magazine articles and other information are up-to-date and accurate as possible, as at the time of publication, but no responsibility can be taken for any errors or omissions contained herein. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Digging & Drilling Magazine. The publisher, editors, contributors and related parties shall have no responsibility for any action or omission by any other contributor, consultant, editor or related party.

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APPEA 2019

7  DIGGING & DRILLING MAGAZINE | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2019

APPEA 2019 CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION NAVIGATING THE FUTURE The APPEA 2019 Conference and Exhibition, held in Brisbane from May 27-30, reflected both a new optimism and a real awareness of the challenges facing our industry.

The exhibition floor showcased the top 200 companies of the sector. Not open to the general public, APPEA provided a targeted, curated and welcoming environment for energy professionals to connect and engage with the leaders, influencers, and drivers of the oil and gas industry.

The APPEA Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition is the largest annual upstream oil and gas event in the southern hemisphere, attracting delegates from across the country and around the world. Around 3000 people from 26 countries attended the flagship annual event which attracted 200 speakers and more than 150 exhibitors.

Five keynote sessions and 28 technical sessions saw APPEA deliver the largest program ever offered in the 59-year history of the conference. The support of 37 sponsors was critical in ensuring another successful event.

With a theme of ‘Navigating the Future’, the Conference highlighted key areas of the industry including climate change and carbon policy, community and stakeholder relations, decommissioning, exploration and resource development and the perceptions of the modern industry.

The new APPEA Chief Executive Andrew McConville opened the APPEA Conference and Exhibition 2019, welcoming over 2,100 energy professionals, dignitaries, sponsors, exhibitors and students to Brisbane. In his welcome address McConville announced this year’s charity partner, Blaze Aid, which supports rural Australian communities affected by bush fires and floods.

With the largest technical and business program ever offered in the history of APPEA, the first plenary session taking on the conference theme, ‘Navigating the Future’ did not disappoint. Representing the Queensland State Government, the Hon Dr Anthony Lynham MP, Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy shared in the excitement of hosting this year’s conference in the Sunshine State as Queensland continues to seek more domestic gas to avoid onshore shortages.

Zoe Yujnovich delivered the APPEA Chairman’s address. Speaking in the opening plenary, she reinforced the role of APPEA and the importance of raising the industry’s voice, especial-

8 DIGGING & DRILLING MAGAZINE | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2019

ly to combat community concerns and activist mis-information.

Canavan highlighted the importance and vital contributions of the oil and gas sector and said he looked forward to engaging with the industry on key issues.

In the lead industry address, Chairman and CEO of ConocoPhillips Ryan Lance called for the sector to be more responsive to communi- To end the plenary session, Ticky Fullerton, ty needs while also being proud of its ongoing Business Editor, Sky News, facilitated a panel contribution to society. discussion with Rod Sims, ACCC; Nathan Fay, ExxonMobil Australia; Santos CEO, Kevin GallaThe opportunities around hydrogen becoming gher; and Andrew Hodge, Macquarie Securities. a key low-carbon emission export for Australia was a key feature of the discussions on the sec- Andrew McConville concluded APPEA 2019 ond day, as was the important role collaboration with his first Chief Executive address. Deliverwill play in moving to a diverse and secure en- ing his strategic vision for the association, Anergy economy. drew called for the industry to stand up and reinforced that ‘his phone is always on’ for APPEA One of the major highlights was Minister for Re- members and its stakeholders. sources and Northern Australia Senator Matt Canavan delivering his first major industry speech since the May 18 election.

Opening the final day of the 59th APPEA Conference Senator the Hon Matt Canavan told delegates the May 18 federal election showed Australians did not support radical action on climate change, but rather a sensible, balanced approach, which he said must be based on international agreement.

In an APPEA conference first, the Minister then joined the panel discussion on east coast gas issues with ACCC’s Rod Sims, Santos CEO Kevin Gallagher, ExxonMobil’s Nathan Fay and Andrew Hodge from Macquarie Securities. Senator The 60th anniversary of the APPEA 2020 conference will be held in Perth on 18-21 May.

NEWS IN BRIEF »

OIL, GAS & MINING NEWS HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE QUARTER

RIO TINTO COPPER-GOLD DISCOVERY AT WINU Rio Tinto has discovered copper-gold mineralisation at the Winu project in the Yeneena Basin of the Paterson Province in Western Australia.

A significant programme of work has continued at the Winu camp in recent months with 180 people now on site and this release provides additional data on the intercepts for the eleven diamond drill holes reflecting drilling to the end of 2018. In addition, some assay data has changed as a result of quality control and assurance activities.

Significant intercepts for the eleven diamond drill holes not previously available in full, as well as all previously reported results, are set out in Table 1 and Table 2 in the PDF attached. Results continue to indicate relatively wide intersections of vein style copper mineralisation associated with gold and silver beneath relatively shallow cover which ranges from 50 to 100 metres. The mineralisation remains open at depth and to the east, north, and south.

INNOVATIVE CARBON SPONGE TECHNOLOGY OFFERS CHEAPER EMISSIONS REDUCTIONS Natural enzymes have the potential to significantly reduce Australia’s industrial and energy emissions at lower cost and with less environmental impact than other carbon capture technologies.

A review of the innovative carbon capture process developed by Canadian firm CO2 Solutions Inc. – commissioned by Australia’s coal industry research and development fund COAL21 – shows using enzymes for carbon capture will be cheaper, more environmentally friendly and use less energy than other methods.

CO2 Solutions’ carbon capture technology uses the carbonic anhydrase enzyme which is naturally present in humans and all living organisms to dramatically accelerate carbon dioxide (CO2) capture compared to conventional technologies.

It uses simple and harmless salt solutions that, when combined with enzymes and heat from hot water, acts as a carbon sponge to separate carbon from the solution. The heated solution is then cooled and recycled to capture more carbon.

Statement from Mark McCallum, COAL21 Chief Executive Officer

QUEENSLAND TO GET MORE PETAJOULES INTO PIPES The Palaszczuk Government has given the green light to the Santos/Shell joint venture and Bridgeport Energy to start exploring for gas in the Surat Basin to boost future gas supply.

Natural Resources, Mines and Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said the granting of the Authority to Prospect reinforced Queensland’s commitment to meeting global and domestic demand with approvals processed in just three weeks.

Since 2015, the Palaszczuk Government had released more than 39,000 km2 of land for gas exploration - nearly a quarter for the domestic market only.

“This approval means the Santos/Shell joint venture and Bridgeport Energy can hit the ground running on the land near Chinchilla and Tara in the proven gas producing Surat Basin,’’ Dr Lynham said. “Before granting these ATPs, Santos/Shell joint venture and Bridgeport Energy had to fulfil all existing environmental and Native Title requirements.

“Santos/Shell joint venture has won the right to explore gas on 1212km2 of land near Chinchilla and Bridgeport Energy on 298km2 near Tara. “Santos and Shell already are major players in Queensland’s onshore $70 billion gas industry via there established GLNG and QCLNG gas projects. “Granting of these ATPs is all about getting the petajoules in the pipes and boosting gas supply to help meet demand.

“Santos/Shell and Bridgeport’s ongoing investment in exploration demonstrates the high level of confidence in Queensland’s onshore gas industry. “This investor confidence was on display earlier at the Energy Mines and Money event held in Brisbane 12-13 June which attracted around 500 delegates and potential investors looking to invest in our burgeoning resources sector.”

CELLCUBE TO BRING GRID SCALE VANADIUM BATTERY TO SOUTH AUSTRALIA Rewables firm Pangea Energy and vanadium battery producer CellCube have signed on to build a 50MW storage system alongside a solar farm in South Australia.

Construction of the 50MW/200MWh grid-scale battery is expected to begin before the end of the year, with plans to be operational in 2020.

Pangea Energy is part of Sen Tek Energy Solutions, a multinational renewable energy project developer in South East Asia. It signed the letter of intent with Canadian energy storage systems manufacturer CellCube this week.

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FIRST LNG CARGO SHIPPED FROM PRELUDE FLNG Shell, along with its Joint Venture Partners INPEX, KOGAS and OPIC, announced on Jun 11, 2019 that the first shipment of Liquefied Natural Gas has sailed from Shell’s Prelude Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) facility located 475kms North East of Broome in Western Australia.

This shipment will be delivered by the Valencia Knutsen to customers in Asia.

Prelude FLNG Facility with Valencia Knutsen berthed side-by-side

Maarten Wetselaar, Integrated Gas and New Energies Director said: “Today’s first shipment of LNG departed from Prelude FLNG, safely. Everyone involved should be very proud of the work taken to reach this important milestone.

“Prelude forms an integral part of our global portfolio and plays an important role in meeting the growing demand for more and cleaner energy for our customers around the world.

Zoe Yujnovich, Chairman Shell Australia said: “Prelude FLNG combines human endeavour and ingenuity from across the globe and here in Australia.

We are proud to work with our local communities, suppliers and partners to ensure its safe, reliable operations into the future.”

The Shell-operated Prelude FLNG facility is an offshore development that will produce natural gas from a remote field approximately 475km north-north

east of Broome in Western Australia.

The Prelude FLNG facility will produce 3.6 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of LNG, 1.3 mtpa of condensate and 0.4 mtpa of LPG. The Prelude FLNG facility is operated by Shell in joint venture with INPEX (17.5%), KOGAS (10%) and OPIC (5%).

Industry welcomes first Prelude LNG shipment The first shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Shell’s Prelude Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) facility has been hailed as another important milestone for Australia’s growing oil and gas industry.

APPEA Chief Executive Andrew McConville congratulated Shell and its joint venture participants on the first LNG cargo from Pipelay the large-scale Castoron Vesselproject.

“Industry welcomes and applauds the first LNG shipment from Prelude that will be delivered to

Prelude FLNG Facility

customers in Asia,” Mr McConville said.

“This historic and world-class FLNG project will deliver jobs, taxation and export revenues for Australia for decades to come.

“Importantly, the LNG produced by Prelude will contribute to the stable supply of low emissions energy and meet growing cleaner energy demand from Asia and the rest of the world.”

APPEA Chief Executive Andrew McConville congratulated Shell and its joint venture participants on the first LNG cargo from the large-scale project.

Image Courtesy of Shell Australia

“Industry welcomes and applauds the first LNG shipment from Prelude that will be delivered to customers in Asia,” Mr McConville said.

“This historic and world-class FLNG project will deliver jobs, taxation and export revenues for Australia for decades to come.

“Importantly, the LNG produced by Prelude will contribute to the stable supply of low emissions energy and meet growing cleaner energy demand from Asia and the rest of the world.”

Prelude FLNG being towed to Australia

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2019 DIGGING & DRILLING MAGAZINE 15

Prelude FLNG

Adani’s Management Plans approved Adani had been asking for clarity of process and timing from the Queensland Labor Government in relation to the approvals of our outstanding management plans for more than seven months and the Queensland Labor Government had been reviewing these management plans for over two years.

Adani had been put through the highest level of scrutiny over these plans for the Carmichael Project and overcame every hurdle along the way plus these plans had already been approved at the Federal level.

Governments, bringing to a close a two-year process of rigorous scientific inquiry, review and approvals. This includes relevant reviews by Australia’s pre-eminent scientific organisations CSIRO and Geoscience Australia.

This final management plans approval translates into thousands of jobs for regional Queenslanders.

“The finalisation of the GDEMP and Black-throated Finch Management Plan paves the way for construction to commence on the Carmichael Project and the delivery of much needed jobs for regional Queenslanders.

The following is a statement from Lucas Dow, CEO Adani Mining:

“Adani Mining has received advice from the Queens- “Moving forward, our priority is ensuring the safety land Government’s Department of Environment and of everyone who works on the project and that all Science that the Groundwater Dependent Ecosys- construction activity meets the strict environmental tems Management Plan (GDEMP) has been final- requirements we have agreed to meet in our manised and approved. agement plans and approvals.

“This is confirmation the plan complies with all reg- “Over the coming days preparatory activities such ulatory conditions set by the Australian and State as finalising contracts, mobilising equipment, re-

construction, with Rockhampton and Townsville the primary hubs for employment. The Whitsunday, Isaac, Central Highlands, Mackay, Charters Towers and Gladstone regions will also benefit from work packages and employment opportunities.

“Throughout the past eight years regional Queenslanders have been beside us every step of the way and we thank them for their ongoing support. We’re ready to start work on the Carmichael Project and deliver the jobs these regions so badly need.”

cruitment and completing inductions will continue. These preparatory actions will enable us to Carmichael Coal Mine Production per Annum then start construction activities including fencing, bridge and road upgrades, water management and The Carmichael Mine will produce 10 million tonnes civil earthworks on the mine site. The level of con- of coal per annum in stage one. This is only a small struction activity will then steadily increase over fraction of the total coal produced in Australia and the coming weeks. “The project will deliver 1,500 a minor percentage of the thermal coal used in the direct and 6,750 indirect jobs during ramp up and world each year.

Material courtesy of Adani Australia.

Projects & Businesses

Adani Mining

Adani Mining is committed to providing thousands of jobs for Queenslanders.

For generations mining has sustained thousands of jobs for Queenslanders. The industry is a mainstay of the Queensland economy. The royalties and business opportunities mining creates benefits everyone, from remote regional communities

The Carmichael Mine is located approximately 300km from the Coast

through to South East Queensland.

Adani Mining is eager to continue this tradition, ensuring regional Queensland communities are strong, resilient and vibrant.

Located more than 300km west of the Queensland Coast, the Carmichael Mine Project is ideally positioned to maximise the opportunities that the Galilee Basin presents, so Queenslanders reap the rewards.

Great Barrier Reef

The Carmichael Project is a thermal coal mine and rail project, which will transport coal from the Galilee Basin to countries in Asia, including India, Vietnam and China, delivering thousands of jobs for Queenslanders in the process.

Abbot Point Terminal 300km

Carmichael Mine

50km Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Hay Point Coal Terminal

By delivering a 10 million tonnes per annum mine, combined with a rail line to connect the mine to the Port of Abbot Point, communities like Townsville, Rockhampton, Mackay, Bowen and the Isaac region are ideally positioned to receive new jobs and contract opportunities for local workers and businesses.

Adani Mining is committed to the job of: Providing thousands of jobs for Queenslanders.

•

Operating safely, responsibly and in a sustainable manner.

•

Injecting billions of dollars in royalties into the Queensland economy.

•

Playing its part in creating affordable energy for those in the world who need it the most.

•

Delivering shareholder value and benefits to the communities in which we operate.

To find out more about Adani Mining, work packages and employment opportunities visit www.adaniaustralia.com or call us on 1800 423 264.

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KUFPEC Commencement of LNG Production from Wheatstone Train 2 in Australia KUFPEC has announced the commencement of LNG production from the second train at KUFPEC’s Wheatstone LNG Project located at Onslow in the North West of Australia.

Production from Train 1 commenced in October “This great achievement affirms the essential role 2017, and with the commencement of production of KUFPEC in securing an international presence from Train 2, KUFPEC will now be able to for Kuwait’s hydrocarbon industry and providing realize additional production and sales of LNG energy solutions and diversification for the to customers. KUFPEC is the second-largest State of Kuwait, while contributing substantially equity owner of the Wheatstone LNG Project to achieving KUFPEC’s strategic targets and with a share of 13.4%. The Project is expected assisting in achieving the Kuwait Oil Sector’s to produce LNG in excess of 8.9 million tons per strategy annum (MMTPA) for over 20 years of operations.

Production from Train 1 commenced in October H.E. the Minister of Oil and Minister of Electricity 2017, and with the commencement of production and Water, Chairman of the Board of Kuwait from Train 2, KUFPEC will now be able to Petroleum Corporation, Mr. Bakhit Al-Rashidi said: realize additional production and sales of LNG

22 DIGGING & DRILLING MAGAZINE | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2019

outstanding, with many lessons learned from other LNG Projects in Australia and globally being incorporated into the cost and schedule management for the Project.

to customers. KUFPEC is the second-largest equity owner of the Wheatstone LNG Project with a share of 13.4%. The Project is expected to produce LNG in excess of 8.9 million tons per annum (MMTPA) for over 20 years of operations.

HSE statistics have been world-leading with major and catastrophic motor vehicle crashes limited to 1 with over 100 million kilometres driven and only 11 days away from work cases throughout the life of the Project. Importantly, the construction of the Wheatstone LNG Project has also seen the Joint Venture deliver many social responsibility programs including the Onslow Primary School Partnership with funding provided for teachers support, the Onslow Chamber of Commerce Partnership to support local community businesses capacity and capability; and social infrastructure including community facilities.”

The final part of the Project will be the completion of a domestic gas plant to supply 220 mmscf/d of processed gas to the local Western Australian market. KUFPEC is working closely with its joint venture partners to finalise this part of the Project and to deliver gas to customers within Western Australia.

H.E. the Minister of Oil and Minister of Electricity and Water, Chairman of the Board of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, Mr. Bakhit Al-Rashidi said: “This great achievement affirms the essential role of KUFPEC in securing an international presence for Kuwait’s hydrocarbon industry and providing energy solutions and diversification for the State of Kuwait, while contributing substantially to achieving KUFPEC’s strategic targets and assisting in achieving the Kuwait Oil Sector’s strategy.

KUFPEC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), and it is an international petroleum company engaged KUFPEC VP Operations Mr Ayad Al- in exploration, development, and production of Kandari noted: “Performance in the delivery crude oil and natural gas outside the State of of the Wheatstone LNG Project has been Kuwait.

Rio Tinto partners with Caterpillar on

autonomous machinery at advanced mine

Development of Rio Tinto’s most technologically advanced mine has progressed following an agreement with global equipment manufacturer Caterpillar to provide state-of-the-art heavy machinery for the Koodaideri iron ore operation in the Pilbara, Western Australia. trades and apprentices.

Rio Tinto Iron Ore chief executive Chris Salisbury said “We’re pleased to be partnering with Caterpillar and WesTrac to help make Koodaideri the most technology-enabled and innovative mine in our Pilbara iron ore network.

Caterpillar, with support of their local Western Australian dealer WesTrac, will supply a fleet of 20 autonomous 793F trucks as well as four autonomous blast drills. Beyond the autonomous fleet, Caterpillar will also provide loaders, dozers, graders, water carts and diggers for the operation which will be Rio Tinto’s first Pilbara mine to be primarily operated using Caterpillar machinery. The two companies have also agreed to study the potential for increased levels of automation of heavy mining equipment at the mine in the future.

“Technology is rapidly changing our mining operations as we harness innovation to make our operations safer, smarter and more productive. This extension of our partnership with Caterpillar and WesTrac represents an exciting step for our business.

“The development and adoption of technology will continue to change the way we work and we remain committed to providing opportunities for new roles, new skills, redeployment and retraining. Our partnership with the Western Australian government and South Metropolitan TAFE is working to develop the first nationally recognised certificates in automation, helping to ease the industry’s transition to the mines of the future.”

The partnership with Caterpillar at Koodaideri will enhance Rio Tinto’s industry-leading Mine of the FutureTM programme which connects all components of the mining value chain for the first time, as well as making increased use of automation and digitisation. Caterpillar’s machinery will be integrated with Rio Tinto’s Mine Automation System (MAS), which collects and enhances data created by the company’s mining operations, to improve productivity across Rio Tinto’s entire iron ore network.

Caterpillar’s group president with responsibility for Resource Industries Denise Johnson said “The Caterpillar team is looking forward to working with Rio Tinto at Koodaideri to apply our proven mining equipment and autonomous technology and to implement additional MineStar™ autonomy solutions.

Caterpillar and WesTrac welcome the opportunity to support the development and operation of this technologically advanced mine. We are excited to work together to advance Rio Tinto’s mine automation and digitalisation programme.”

WesTrac estimate the work will create 50 new WAbased roles across project management, product support and technical support, as well as technical

Koodaideri, 100 per cent owned by Rio Tinto, is located approximately 35 kilometres north-west of

Rio Tinto’s Yandicoogina mine site, and about 110 kilometres from the town of Newman. The $2.6 billion mine was approved in November last year with construction commencing earlier this year.

Koodaideri Phase 1 will help sustain Rio Tinto’s existing production capacity by replacing depletion elsewhere in the system. Production capacity of the mine will be 43 million tonnes annually and is expected to commence by the end of 2021. A pre-feasibility study into Koodaideri Phase 2, which could increase annual capacity to 70 million tonnes, is ongoing.

Koodaideri has significant innovations in scope including, a digital replica of the processing plant, accessible in real time by workers in the field;fully integrated mine automation and simulation systems, advanced automation including an automated workshop and numerous data analytics capabilities and control loops to optimise production and reduce downtime.

Engineering firm Worley was recently awarded a contract to perform the engineering, procurement and construction management for the project. As part of the contract, Rio Tinto and Worley are utilising a data centric engineering approach and will produce a digital asset of the Koodaideri plant, making the operation safer and more efficient.

(AHS) trucks. Rio Tinto has more than 80 autonomous trucks in operation at our Pilbara sites, with plans in place to increase this to more than 140 by the end of 2019, each moving high grade ore. Implementing autonomous haulage means more material can be moved efficiently and safely, creating a direct increase in productivity. Autonomous haul trucks are operated by a supervisory system and a central controller, rather than a driver. They use pre-defined GPS courses to automatically navigate haul roads and intersections and to know actual locations, speeds and directions of other vehicles at all times.

The first successful test proving the feasibility of an Autonomous Drilling System (ADS) was conducted at the West Angeles mine in 2008. In 2018, the 11 ADS-enabled drills have now drilled more than 5,000 kilometres - that’s further than the distance from Perth to Queenstown, New Zealand. The automated blast-hole drill system enables an operator using a single console at a location remote from the machinery to operate multiple drill rigs from multiple manufacturers.

Mine of the Future™ Launched in 2008, the Rio Tinto Mine of the Future™ programme is about finding advanced ways to extract minerals deep within the Earth while reducing environmental impacts and further improving safety.

The Operations Centre in Perth is a state-of-the-art facility that enables all our mines, ports and rail systems to be operated from a single location, greatly increasing opportunities for shared experience and overall system improvement. It incorporates visualisation and collaboration tools to provide real-time information across our demand chain, and will allow us to optimise our mining, maintenance and logistic activities across the Pilbara in a way never before possible.Rio Tinto are the world’s largest owner and operator of autonomous haulage system

AutoHaul® is focused on automating the trains that are essential to transporting the iron ore to their port facilities. Trains started running in autonomous mode in the first quarter of 2017, and already, more than 60 per cent of all train kilometres are now completed in autonomous mode with a driver on board for supervision. Once fully operational, AutoHaul® will unlock significant safety and productivity benefits as a result of reduced variability and increased speed across the network, helping to reduce average cycle times.

Images: Christian Sprogoe Photography

JOINT STATEMENT

The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk Premier and Minister for Trade

The Honourable Cameron Dick Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning

$1 billion Olive Downs project approval to create hundreds of local jobs Queensland’s independent Coordinator-General has approved the proposed $1 billion Olive Downs metallurgical coal mine, 40 kilometres south-east of Moranbah in the Bowen Basin, with strict conditions to ensure local employment and manage potential impacts on the environment.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk made the announcement in Parliament recently. “The mine is expected to create 1000 operational jobs and 500 jobs during construction,” Ms Palaszczuk said. “The project will contribute an estimated $8 billion to the local economy and more than $10 billion to the Queensland economy. “My government has helped facilitate more than $20 billion in resources projects since January 2015. “This has helped the Queensland economy continue to grow and it has helped contribute to the 192,000 jobs that have been created in Queensland since January 2015.”

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said metallurgical coal produced in the Bowen Basin is in high demand for use in steel production in Asia. “The project will produce up to 15 million tonnes of metallurgical coal per year for export via the Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal near Mackay,” he said.

Mr Dick said that the project maximises the use of existing road, rail, power and water infrastructure in Queensland’s most established coal region and would operate alongside 25 existing mines. “The proposed project includes coal handling and crushing facilities at the mine’s Olive Downs South and Willunga precincts, a rail link to transport coal to the Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and a water pipeline and power transmission line,” he said.

Member for Mackay and Assistant Minister for State Development Julieanne Gilbert said this was the first project that had completed a social impact assessment under the Strong and Sustainable Resource Communities Act as part of the environmental impact statement. “It is also the first time that the Coordinator General has decided to include the construction phase as being captured by the SSRC Act, further adding to local benefits,” she said.

“The SSRC Act requires the proponent Pembroke Resources to encourage workers to live in local towns like Moranbah, Nebo, Dysart and Middlemount and reduce the reliance on fly-in, fly-out workers. Pembroke has committed to recruiting locals and people from other regions who might like to move to local towns. “There will also be significant opportunities for local and regional suppliers, contractors, service providers and businesses.”

Mr Dick said the public was invited to have their say on the draft environmental impact statement for the project between September and October 2018 with 37 submissions received. The independent Coordinator-General considered all submissions in completing his evaluation of the project.

Subject to Commonwealth Government approval, Pembroke Resources expects to commence construction in 2020.

LIVE A LIFE OF SHEER LUXURY RIGHT ON THE RIVER’S EDGE Perth’s most prestigious development provides one of the largest apartments on the market today This is one of Perth’s most stunning apartments of luxurious living providing every modern convenience you could ever wish for, a

3 King size bedrooms, all offer Walk in Robes with 3 luxurious styled ensuites

beautiful space to gather together. With 310m2 of internal living

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( gas cook top option) Built in Miele fridge/freezer and dishwasher

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Smart wiring, control touch pads, smart phone control Fully ducted air conditioning with control panels in every room Huge balconies with built in BBQ cooking facilities Very exclusive secure apartment with stunning river views

Address

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View

By appointment

Contact

Brent Morfesse 0419 900 747 brent@mackhall.com.au

DESIRABLE PROPERTY

mackhall.com.au

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AUTOMAC TRANSMISSIONS IS PERTH’S AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SPECIALIST Bailey Automatics acquired Automac Transmissions in Myaree in April 2011 and with this acquisition we became a ZF Services Partner, selling genuine ZF parts.

Stew Bailey is Owner/Operator and has over 20 years of experience in working on automatic transmissions and running his workshop.

We provide a full range of services for all vehicle makes and models using the latest in electronic diagnostic equipment. We are also passionate about F250s, heavy duty upgraded automatic transmissions, mining and performance transmissions.

AUTOMAC TRANSMISSIONS AND BAILEY AUTOMATICS ARE EXPERTS IN: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS

POWER STEERING

Our experienced staff will provide thorough, efficient, genuine feedback and knowledge about the condition of your transmission.

We supply, fit and recondition power steering components including; pumps, boxes, pinion units and racks. Our turnaround time to recondition racks and pumps is 48 hours.

MANUAL GEARBOX

TORQUE CONVERTERS

We provide quality assured services to efficiently inspect the condition of your transmission or gearbox, test performance and repair or replace parts as needed.

We manufacture torque converters in house to suit your requirements. Come in to our Myaree workshop for a full inspection and diagnosis on the status of your vehicle’s torque converter.

DIFFERENTIALS We service and repair open, clutch-type limited slip and torsen differentials on front, rear, all wheel and 4 wheel drive vehicles.

PERFORMANCE EQUIPMENT We stock a huge range quality components and products as well as the required expertise and advice to supply the parts and achieve the performance that you want from your vehicle.

At Automac Transmissions we have a first rate team of mechanics who've worked on automatic transmissions, manual transmissions, differentials and power steering units.

Our rebuilders have 15-25 years' experience in the trade and we believe we are the premier transmission shop in Western Australia.

New technology for battery grade lithium production Lithium extraction technology could be developed to convert a plentiful unused resource into high grade lithium and valuable by-products, with promising results revealed in a recent report.

The project, part of a major collaboration between the electrodialysis was also investigated.

Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia (MRI“Products such as high purity lithium hydroxide are imWA), Murdoch University and sponsors Lithium Australia portant because they can be used as key precursor and Venus Metals Corp, sought to develop new technolchemicals in the production of lithium ion batteries,” Proogy for battery grade lithium production. fessor Nikoloski said.

The project also aimed to capture valuable byproducts “We were also interested in discovering the potential for from the extraction of high-grade lithium carbonate from residues from each impurity separation process to be certain groupings of minerals, known as micas. converted into a marketable by-products. There were a Associate Professor Aleks Nikoloski from the Harry number of potentially valuable by-products identified, inButler Institute at Murdoch University led the project in- cluding potassium sulphate, caesium, rubidium, sodium vestigating how chemical process conditions could be silicate and high-grade gypsum, and we are currently inoptimised to separate impurities, resulting in a purified vestigating relevant process options further.” Researchlithium product liquor. ers also identified ways to lower the cost and environment footprint of lithium production through the reuse of “Being able to extract battery-grade lithium carbonate certain critical reagents such as alunite and fluorite. from a previously unused resource, micas containing lithium, will significantly boost the state’s supply of bat- In releasing the research report, MRIWA CEO Nicole tery minerals,” Professor Nikoloski said.

Roocke said “This is a fine example of industry and academic collaboration, with assistance from government, The project successfully identified the key process pato meet the needs of our times and this project is an rameters, including the type of reagents used, reagent important foundation on which the recently funded Fudosages, effects of seeding and electrochemical conditure Battery Minerals Cooperative Research Centre (FBI tions in each process unit of the flow sheet. These paCRC) will build.” rameters extended to the rates and extents of precipitation of the relevant impurities and their influence on the “The State Government’s Future Battery Industry Stratelithium deportment. gy demonstrates a commitment to a future battery industry in Western Australia with an emphasis on research Professor Nikoloski established how to minimise the and technology sector development across the battery loss of lithium during the purification process by carefulvalue chain. ly identifying the characteristics of all the solid chemical compounds produced in this process and determining “Targeted research has the potential to grow the battery how much lithium sticks to each compound. metals and mining equipment, technology and services The production of higher value products from the purified product, such as battery grade lithium carbonate or lithium hydroxide, by a novel membrane process known as

sectors in Western Australian delivering substantial economic benefits and new jobs in the future,” Ms Roocke said.

30 DIGGING & DRILLING MAGAZINE | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2019

OFFICE & WORKSHOP 49 Candlewood Boulevard, Joondalup 6027 Tel: (08) 9300 3135 Fax: (08) 9300 3236 Email: mark@mechbro.com.au

MechBro Australia has been set up to respond to the demand for Heavy Duty Diesel Mechanics and Fitters involved in the repair, maintenance and servicing of earthmoving, mining and transport equipment as well as light vehicles.

Our business is based in Perth and also services regional areas, including the Pilbara. Our people are highly skilled and motivated to provide the highest level of service to companies throughout Western Australia. With a fleet of mine specifi ed and f ully equipped service utilities, w e are unique in that w e are not simply a labour hire company.

Because with MechBro you don’t just get a capable individual, you get the strength of our entire team! MechBro’s team of mechanics and fitters are committed to the economic success of our customers. And so, before joining us, must demonstrate they possess the passion, skills and attitude required to satisfy our customers. Accordingly, we believe this set of values will help to ensure the mutual economic success of all parties.

OUR PEOPLE

Whether it be a civil or mining project, every person on our team knows that to keep plant operating means productivity. We work hard and use our heads! As a collective, our team of highly skilled mechanics diagnose, repair and maintain a wide variety of plant and equipment, dozers, excavators, graders, scrapers, profilers, dump trucks, bobcats, heavy haulage road transport, etc.

Our team has the experience, qualifications and equipment to work on all aspects of these machines including engine rebuilds, hydraulics, track and frame, electrics and air conditioning and on all brands, including, but not limited to; CAT, Hitachi, Komatsu, Terex, O&K, Volvo, Bell, Vermeer, Cummins.

As a team of mechanics, fitters, servicemen and fabricators we keep machines going, as well as being involved in site mobilization where we establish containerized workshops complete with domes and commission machinery ready for operation. Upon project completion we demobilize workshops and plant and are often the last to leave site.

Throughout a project we are able to manage all parts ordering and delivery, including urgent hot shots. Our tilt tray can pick up and deliver parts and 20’ containers up to 8.5T.

REFRIGERENT TRADING AUTHORISATION

WHERE WE’VE WORKED

MACHINERY AND VEHICLE HIRE

MechBro has the capability and authorisation to repair your air conditioning units.

During the last 18 months we’ve worked at many major mine sites owned by BHPB, RIO, FMG, Sandfire Resources and more recently Onslow Quarry. Our people understand the rigorous requirements of working on these sites and act accordingly.

Mechbro can provide a variety of machinery and vehicles to suit your needs. MechBro currently have 6 mine specified service vehicles supported by a tilt tray truck capable of loading and unloading 20’ sea containers and moving items of plant up to 8 Tonne.

SAFETY FIRST

Having established MechBro Pty Ltd on May 9th 2011, with 2 mechanics we have experienced rapid growth and now have a great team of mechanics and service men. In 2012 we also acquired a light vehicle w ork shop in Joondalup.

Within the next 12 months we will be establishing a heavy duty workshop where we can service, repair and store larger equipment.

Our aim is to conduct our business using systems and practices which will ensure that our workforce and the community are protected from injury and harm. Safety and productivity go hand in hand with our people working as problem solvers to get the job done.

WORKSHOP & ONSITE SERVICE

We have the equipment and the facilities to service your machinery and vehicles. We will also invest in our business and tailor to your requirements.

For more info, contact Mark Nielsen

Mobile: 0438005655

www.mechbro.com.au

Come home to your little pocket of luxury Seven Hills Dianella WA

sevenhillsperth.com.au

(08) 6244 9760