Copper Cliff No. 4 Substation Modernization

In the heart of Sudbury, Ontario, BESTECH spearheaded the transformation of Vale's Copper Cliff No. 4 Substation, a project emblematic of our commitment to innovation and sustainable development. Faced with the challenge of revamping an aging electrical hub amidst growing operational demands, we embarked on a comprehensive modernization journey. From intricate civil engineering to advanced protective device schemes, our team meticulously crafted a solution that not only revitalized the substation but also fortified it for future demands. This project is a testament to BESTECH's ability to blend technical expertise with visionary planning, ensuring our clients stay at the forefront of industrial progress and reliability.

Vale Canada Limited faced challenges with its flagship Copper Cliff No. 4 Substation in Sudbury, Ontario, due to aging infrastructure and increasing electrical demands from new and expanding projects.

BESTECH was entrusted with the FEL3 study and detailed engineering to upgrade the substation. Our comprehensive approach included risk assessment, safety requirements, technical work, and innovative engineering solutions to meet the growing demand and modernize the substation.

Key Features:

Comprehensive civil and structural engineering, including road relocations and oxygen/nitrogen line relocation.
Noise attenuation design with a 10m wall around the substation.
Extensive geotechnical studies and surveys.
Demolition of the existing substation and construction of new foundations and structures.
Implementation of new protective device schemes, including relay programming.
Preparation of tender documents for major equipment and overseeing the procurement process.

The project, running from 2014 to 2017, successfully replaced the aging Copper Cliff No. 4 Substation with a new, higher-capacity system. This upgrade ensures a reliable power supply for Vale’s various projects in the area, accommodating an additional load of ~97 MVA. Our solutions not only catered to the current needs but also prepared the substation for future expansions and challenges.