Glencore Sudbury INO
BESTECH was tasked with the electrical, instrumentation, and automation designs for a 6.5 MW ammonia-based cooling plant to enhance the facility's cooling capacity.
The project included a refrigeration machine, an air cooler, a condenser cooling tower, chilled water pumps, evaporator pumps, a backwash system, and restage pumps.
SCOPE
BESTECH conducted a detailed design process, converting electrical standards from Australian to Ontario regulations. This included setting up a 13.8 kV pole line and an outdoor transformer substation to step down from 13.8 kV to 5 kV. A 5 kV compressor soft starter was installed to improve operational efficiency. A prefabricated e-house was designed to house all control systems, with pre-commissioning done offsite to reduce disruptions at the plant.
To ensure safety and functionality, BESTECH integrated safety controls, including an ammonia detection system for managing risks. The refrigeration building included an HVAC system for optimal conditions and an emergency exhaust air system for environmental safety. Custom PLC and HMI code were developed for tailored control and monitoring, enhancing plant automation.
OUTCOME
The completion of the ammonia-based cooling plant provided Glencore Sudbury INO with an efficient cooling system that improved operational capabilities at their Timmins facility. The project met the client’s requirements and adhered to safety and environmental standards for ammonia systems, ensuring precise temperature control while complying with regulations.