Vale Canada Limited
Vale Canada Limited tasked BESTECH with replacing the aging RX gas generators at the Copper Cliff Nickel Refinery.
The existing generators, crucial for the refinery’s operations, had reached the end of their operational life, presenting significant challenges due to the continuous operational requirements of the plant.
SCOPE
The project employed a phased approach to accommodate the installation of new RX generators and air compressors within the limited available space of the continuously operational plant. BESTECH utilized in-house 3D laser scanning technology to create an accurate point cloud of the existing building, process equipment, and piping. This precise mapping ensured that the new equipment, process piping, and ductwork could be seamlessly integrated into the congested space without disrupting ongoing operations.
Additionally, a piping tie-in package was developed and executed prior to construction to facilitate the phased installation process. Innovative use of micropiles for the foundation system minimized the need for extensive excavation, thereby safeguarding the integrity of nearby process equipment.
OUTCOME
The replacement of the RX gas generators and the addition of two new air compressors are underway, with the project designed to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the refinery’s RX gas production. The strategic phased construction approach adopted by BESTECH allows for the integration of new systems without interrupting the plant’s critical RX gas supply. This method ensures that plant operations can continue uninterrupted, thereby maintaining production stability and improving overall system reliability with modern, more efficient equipment.