Australian Mining Awards

13/01/2025

5 Safety and Productivity Challenges in Vehicle Fleet Management and How to Overcome Them
Managing a vehicle fleet involves much more than keeping vehicles in top condition. From driver training and route optimisation to regulatory and environmental compliance, fleet managers must oversee various operational aspects. This broad scope of work makes fleet management an important part of business operations across many industries, including logistics, construction, and agriculture. In these sectors, well-managed fleets are often what separate smooth-running businesses from those plagued by delays, high costs, and safety incidents.
The sheer number of variables—including multiple vehicles, drivers, and resources—makes managing a fleet a challenging endeavour. Beyond these, fleet managers must balance both safety and operational efficiency. This, combined with the need for real-time decision-making, can often be overwhelming even for experienced and well-trained professionals.
It is imperative to partner with a trusted liquid management solutions provider like Liquimech to address these challenges effectively. With extensive experience supporting industries that rely on effective fleet management, Liquimech offers products, services, and expert advice to tackle these issues head-on. Let’s explore some common fleet management challenges and how to overcome them:
Fuel Management
Rising fuel costs and inefficient fuel use can have a major impact on a company’s bottom line. Indeed, fuel is often one of the largest operating expenses for companies that employ fleets of vehicles, so it’s essential to manage it appropriately. In addition to high costs, poor fuel management can lead to operational inefficiencies and environmental damage from leaks or spills.
Companies that operate fleets will benefit from investing in a top-of-the-line fuel management system, such as those provided by Liquimech. These systems closely monitor fuel consumption, providing real-time updates and comprehensive reports that identify each event by vehicle, driver, time, and location. Managers can use this information to pinpoint inefficiencies and take corrective action.
It’s equally important to invest in high-quality storage solutions. The self-bunded diesel tank offered by Liquimech is an excellent choice for fuel storage, designed with a secondary containment layer to prevent spills and leaks. This tank not only protects the environment but also ensures compliance with strict environmental regulations. By using such advanced storage solutions, fleet managers can reduce fuel-related risks and better control fuel costs.
Vehicle Maintenance
Keeping company vehicles in optimal condition is one of a fleet manager’s key responsibilities, as vehicle breakdowns can have severe consequences. Poorly maintained vehicles can lead to operational delays, increased costs, and safety hazards. However, it can be challenging for fleet managers to track maintenance schedules and routine checks while also handling unexpected repairs.
A proactive approach is essential for mitigating risks related to vehicle maintenance. This may include implementing regular maintenance schedules and meticulous record-keeping, along with investing in predictive maintenance technology that can alert managers to potential issues before breakdowns occur.
Learn more:
https://liquimech.com.au/.../5-safety-and-productivity.../

Learn how to tackle key safety and productivity challenges in vehicle fleet management. Boost efficiency and safety with proven solutions!

13/01/2025

5 Key Causes of Construction Delays and Solutions with Self-Bunded Fuel Tanks
If you’re currently working in the construction industry or planning to start a construction business, you need to consider several factors to secure success. Adhering to a strict schedule is particularly important, as it ensures your projects will be completed on time and within budget. Moreover, consistently finishing projects on or before their target completion dates creates a positive impression for your clients, which in turn enhances your brand’s reputation and image.
Numerous factors can hinder your ability to stay on schedule, from equipment failures and supply chain disruptions to changes in project scope, many reasons behind construction delays are beyond your control. Thankfully, you can minimise their impact through effective strategic planning and management.
In light of this, let us examine some of the primary causes of delays in construction projects, along with potential solutions to help you prepare for them.
Budget Inaccuracies and Conflicts
budget planning
At the outset of a construction project, the budget serves as the financial foundation that dictates most, if not all, aspects of the work. However, this budget can be affected by inaccurate cost estimates, unexpected expenses, and mismanagement of allocated funds, all of which can lead to significant disruptions. Conflicts regarding the budget often arise when stakeholders have differing views on cost distribution or when initial cost projections prove inadequate to cover essential resources, materials, or labour.
As such, for project managers, it’s important to learn how to adopt a more thorough and realistic approach when it comes to budgeting. When dealing with cost estimations, your decisions must be based on detailed analysis, historical data, and contingency planning to accommodate potential increases in material prices or changes in project scope. Furthermore, working with a professional cost estimator or quantity surveyor can help ensure the accuracy of forecasts, minimising the risk of budget overruns.
Inadequate Resource Allocation
Inadequate or improper resource allocation is another critical factor that contributes to construction delays. When materials, equipment, or personnel aren’t properly distributed or managed, it can halt progress and create inefficiencies across the project. An effective solution to this problem lies in comprehensive resource planning. This involves accurate forecasting of material needs and establishing a supply chain that is resilient to disruptions.
Self-Bunded Fuel Tanks
Liquimech Self Bunded Fuel Tank on mining
Self-bunded fuel tanks are essential for improving resource allocation on construction sites by providing a reliable on-site fuel supply. These fuel tanks significantly reduce downtime associated with refuelling trips, thus preventing disruptions caused by fuel shortages. With bulk storage capacity, self-bunded fuel tanks empower businesses to purchase fuel at competitive prices, ultimately lowering operational costs. Additionally, self-bunded fuel tanks enhance fuel security with lockable access points and advanced monitoring systems designed to prevent theft or unauthorised usage, safeguarding valuable fuel assets on-site.
These self-bunded fuel tanks are expertly designed with double-wall containment, preventing leaks and helping businesses meet stringent environmental regulations, such as AS1940 and AS1692. This compliance avoids costly delays from contamination or regulatory violations. Built to withstand harsh conditions, self-bunded fuel tanks offer durability and mobility for both remote and urban construction projects. Their corrosion-resistant materials ensure a low-maintenance operation, while optional telemetry systems provide real-time monitoring of fuel levels, usage patterns, and refill schedules, supporting better resource planning and management.
Partnering with a reliable supplier is essential to ensure you get high-quality, long-lasting self-bunded fuel tanks tailored to your project’s specific needs. Liquimech is a trusted name in the industry, offering self-bunded fuel tanks with a 110% capacity designed to handle even the most demanding projects across Australia. With expert support and a comprehensive range of equipment solutions, this company helps streamline operations, ensuring that projects remain on schedule and within budget while maximising the benefits of using self-bunded fuel tanks.
Unforeseen Site Conditions contruction site conditions
Certain conditions, such as unstable soil, unexpected underground utilities, or the presence of hazardous materials, may not be apparent during the initial planning and surveying phases. However, when these issues arise, they can significantly disrupt project timelines. This disruption occurs because such circumstances often necessitate additional engineering assessments, redesigns, or the procurement of specialised equipment to handle the situation safely and effectively.
This situation highlights the importance of conducting comprehensive site investigations during the pre-construction phase. Geotechnical surveys, environmental assessments, and detailed utility mapping can help identify potential issues early on. This proactive approach enables the development of preemptive solutions, such as soil stabilisation drainage systems and erosion control measures, which can be integrated into the project plan.
Nonetheless, even with thorough preparation, some site conditions may still emerge unexpectedly. Therefore, having a contingency plan that includes time buffers and a budget for unforeseen circumstances is essential, as it provides the project team with the opportunity to respond quickly and effectively to such challenges.
Learn more:
https://liquimech.com.au/.../causes-of-construction.../

Discover key causes of construction delays and how self-bunded fuel tanks can help streamline operations, reduce costs, and stay on schedule.

13/01/2025

Who has time to wait around for things to charge?

On a mine site every second counts.

With the help of a generous A$10 million grant from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) and a visit from Assistant Minister Josh Wilson MP , we are powering through the development of our 6MW fast chargers that will be able to charge our future 240-tonne Liebherr T 264 battery electric trucks in just 30 minutes!

These chargers will be built and tested at our Fortescue Zero facility in Perth before being sent to our Pilbara sites, with the first production charger to be deployed in late 2025. That's Real Zero in action!

13/01/2025

Our CEO, Mike Henry, spoke at the International Economic Federation of the Americas (IEFA) Conference. During his speech, he highlighted several key themes, including:

✔️ The crucial role of mining in global development and the energy transition.

✔️ The increasing demand for minerals and metals in the coming decades.

"Everything around us comes from raw materials that are grown or mined. This is often under-recognised and underscores just how important metals and minerals are to our global economy and the trajectory of the world to 2050." - Mike Henry, CEO.

13/01/2025

🎄🎅 Christmas Job Board! 🎅🎄

Check out the latest roles from mining companies across Australia – perfect for ringing in the New Year with a new gig!
Swipe through the listings, hit 👍🏼on the ones that catch your eye.

Update or create your profile today at app.miningselect.com.au

Happy Holidays & Stay Safe!

09/01/2025

Standpipe Systems: A Guide to Installation, Regulations, and Maintenance
Standpipe systems are essential components in liquid management and bulk liquid storage across various industries. These systems include standpipes, pipe floats, suction strainers, foot valves, bulk water storage tanks, poly tanks, steel liner tanks, hoses and spooling, valves, flow meters, portable flow meters, telemetry control, bulk water access software, and more.
Standpipe on site
Standpipe systems ensure reliable fluid delivery to designated areas within facilities and play a key role in irrigation, water distribution, and wastewater management. They are also critical for bulk storage, enabling efficient loading and unloading of liquids in distribution centres.
To further understand standpipe systems, this article provides a comprehensive guide to the installation, regulations, and maintenance of standpipe systems in Australia.
Types of Standpipes
Standpipe Filling up a Truck
Standpipes are the backbone of standpipe systems. They come in various types, each designed to meet specific requirements and applications. Understanding the different types of standpipes available is crucial for selecting the most suitable solution for liquid management and bulk storage management needs.
One of the most common types of standpipes is constructed from galvanised steel, which provides excellent protection against high levels of moisture and abrasion. This construction makes galvanised standpipes ideal for desert and seaside worksites.
Meanwhile, heavy vehicle standpipes (HV standpipes) are specially designed to accommodate the filling of large vehicles, such as trucks and tankers, with liquids such as water or fuel. Compared to other standpipes, these HV standpipes feature a more robust construction, can accommodate the size and height requirements of heavy vehicles, and have a larger diameter to facilitate high-volume flow rates required for rapid filling. Typically, heavy vehicle standpipes are found in mining settings.
In cyclone-prone regions, cyclone-rated standpipes are the most suitable. These standpipes are engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as winds that would otherwise bend or knock down common standpipe designs.
These standpipes have high-flow valves and quick-connect fittings for fast and efficient filling.
Learn more:
https://liquimech.com.au/.../standpipe-systems.../

Explore types, installation, regulations, and maintenance of standpipe systems for reliable liquid management across industries in Australia.

09/01/2025

View all current job openings at Lunar mining here on www.seek.com.au

09/01/2025

🚨 New Year, New Job! 🚨

Start 2025 off with a bang! Lodetek are currently advertising for Auto Sparky's on Mining Select. ⚡💥

Ready to take the next step? Apply now!
app.miningselect.com.au

09/01/2025

Someone’s Got to Do the Dirty Work—Liquimech’s Handwash Station Solutions Will!
Liquimech’s Handwash Station Units are the most compact, easy-to-install, and technologically advanced heavy-duty mobile handwashing units available. Designed for those working with hazardous substances or in unhygienic conditions, these stations are essential for meeting occupational health and safety requirements. Ensure cleanliness and compliance with Liquimech’s Handwash Stations.
Learn more:
https://liquimech.com.au/personal-hygiene-and-safety.../

Prioritize safety and hygiene with Liquimech's solutions in Australia. Improve workplace well-being through effective personal hygiene and safety measures.

16/12/2024

Applications of Road Hose Ramps:
Sewer Bypass Projects: Road hose ramps maintain continuous traffic flow during sewer
bypass operations, ensuring smooth movement of vehicles and pedestrians without disrupting
liquid pumping systems.
Dewatering: Facilitate safe movement over pipelines during dewatering projects, providing
reliable access without interrupting water management processes.
Water Transfer: Road hose ramps enable efficient and safe crossings for liquid transport
systems, ensuring reliable traffic flow while minimising the risks to both vehicles and
pedestrians.
Vehicular and Pedestrian Access: Road ramps provide secure passage for vehicles and
pedestrians in urban, industrial, and remote areas, ensuring minimal disruption and smooth
operations.
Civil Construction and Mining: Ideal for temporary and permanent installations, road ramps
are crucial for creating safe crossings over pipelines and facilitating smooth access in civil
construction and mining projects.
Equipment Operations in Quarries: Support heavy machinery and vehicle access in quarries,
providing safe and durable solutions over pipelines and other infrastructure.
Industrial Settings (Warehouses and Factories): Ensure efficient and safe crossings,
maintaining seamless traffic flow and supporting vehicular and pedestrian movement in
industrial environments.
Firefighting and Emergency Response: Road ramps ensure quick, safe movement of
emergency vehicles, especially in areas where pipelines may obstruct normal traffic flow.
Temporary Works in Public Areas: Road hose ramps offer a safe, durable solution for
temporary installations in public spaces, maintaining full access with minimal disruption.
Learn More:
https://liquimech.com.au/product/road-ramps/

Discover Liquimech's Road Hose Ramps, designed for safety and convenience, perfect for protecting hoses while ensuring pedestrian accessibility.

16/12/2024

Hey Miners!
Exciting new opportunities are now live on Mining Select!
🌟 New Positions Available Across the Country! 🌟
Here’s how to get started:
1️⃣ Create your profile
2️⃣ Explore the newest job listings
3️⃣ Apply for your new role in just a few taps!
Sign up today at app.miningselect.com.au

16/12/2024

“It's incredible to think that from commissioning early next year, the solar farm is expected to provide most of the daytime energy needs of our huge port facilities in Port Hedland,” said Western Australia Iron Ore Asset President Tim Day

🌞 Exciting news! The Port Hedland Solar and Battery Project is complete! ⚡

Once commissioned early next year, the solar farm will power most of our daytime energy needs at Port Hedland. The remaining power will come from the BESS and APA’s existing gas-fuelled power station facilities.

This project is a cornerstone of BHP’s and APA’s shared vision for a more sustainable Pilbara with lower greenhouse gas emissions. 🌱

16/12/2024

06/12/2024

More Spray Time & Less Load Time
Liquimech MixSure is a fully automated chemical mixing system designed for spray tenders and agricultural mixing stations. Larger booms and faster driving speeds can boost productivity, but they do not always enhance field efficiency. The key is to minimise the idle time by loading your sprayer quickly and getting it back to work. It’s not how fast you drive; it’s how long you stop.
Fast and Sure-That’s MixSure
AG Chemical Mixing Software
Say Goodbye to Manual Calculations and Time-Consuming Setups
Our AG Chemical Mixing Tank Software is the first and only solution that enables you to start, monitor, and control the mixing process directly from a mobile app—bringing convenience, accuracy, and control right to your fingertips.
Automated. Accurate. Assured. Start mixing the MixSure way!
Learn more:
https://liquimech.com.au/.../automated-chemical-mixing.../

Mix agricultural chemicals faster and smarter with Liquimech MixSure—automated batch mixing with ±0.5% accuracy. Fast and Sure—That’s MixSure.

06/12/2024

06/12/2024

06/12/2024

🚨 We’re Hiring! Experienced Underground Production Fitters/Trades 🚨

Are you an experienced Underground Fitter or Electrician, with experience in production, looking for your next challenge? We want YOU to join our growing team!

Location: Broadmeadow Mine, Moranbah
Position: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: Competitive Rates + Benefits

What You’ll Do:
🔧 Install, maintain, and repair mechanical systems and equipment in underground mining operations.
🔧 Troubleshoot, inspect, and ensure everything is running smoothly.
🔧 Work with the latest mining technologies and machinery.
🔧 Collaborate with a skilled team to meet project goals.
🔧 Keep safety a top priority at all times.

What You’ll Need:
✔️ Experience in underground mining or as a Production Fitter/Electrician.
✔️ Mechanical or electrical trade qualification (Certificate III or equivalent).
✔️ Strong skills in welding, fabrication, and equipment repair.
✔️ Ability to read technical drawings and schematics.
✔️ A commitment to safety and working in challenging environments.
✔️ Positive, team-oriented attitude.

What We Offer:
👉 Competitive rates & bonus'
👉 7/7 roster
👉 Subsidised charter flights (Moranbah - Brisbane)
👉 Local living allowance
👉 Camp accommodation & meals provided
👉 Full-time or subcontractor options
👉 Salary sacrifice options
👉 Career growth and development
👉 EAP program
👉 A supportive and dynamic work environment

Interested? Apply today by sending us your resume!
📧 [email protected]

29/11/2024

The Critical Role of Pipe Spooling in the World of Fuel Refinery and Energy
Operational efficiency in fuel refinement and energy production heavily relies on robust pipeline infrastructure. A well-designed pipeline system not only ensures a streamlined flow of liquids and gases but also minimises the risk of leaks, failures, and accidents. Valves, fittings, supports, and other components are essential to building an effective piping solution. However, pipe spooling stands out as a critical element, enhancing the overall quality and reliability of the installation.
What Is Pipe Spooling?
Liquimech Pipe SpoolingPipe spooling refers to the off-site fabrication of piping sections, including necessary fittings and connections, which are then transported to the installation site. This method allows for precise assembly and testing in a controlled environment, ensuring that each component meets stringent quality standards. Once installed, the pipe spools can be incorporated into a larger piping system and can enhance the following processes in fuel refinery and energy production:
1. Transportation of Crude Oil and Refined Products
Liquimech Pipe Spooling 2The transportation of crude oil and refined products is a fundamental part of fuel refining, and pipe spooling plays a pivotal role in ensuring efficiency and safety throughout the process. The design and construction of these pipelines require careful consideration, as factors—such as the type of material being transported, flow rates, and environmental conditions—can impact their performance. To ensure durability and reliability, fuel refineries must invest in high-quality pipe spooling. This way, their piping infrastructure can withstand the corrosiveness of crude oil and won’t be prone to leaks. With superior pipe spooling, companies can effectively reduce maintenance costs and the potential for environmental incidents, thereby safeguarding both their operations and the surrounding ecosystems. Fuel refinery owners or managers who are looking for high-quality pipe spooling in Australia can trust Liquimech to supply them with durable, heavy-duty, and long-lasting pipe spooling. They offer custom-built hose, spooling, & piping solutions that are built to handle any challenge, making them a reliable addition to any pipeline project.
2. Distribution of Steam and Power
Steam plays a vital role in ensuring the efficiency of various processes, including distillation, heating, and equipment operation. In this regard, pipe spooling is instrumental in creating effective steam distribution networks, allowing for the prefabrication of pipe sections tailored to specific operational requirements. This enables refineries to produce longer, seamless pipe runs that minimise the number of joints and potential leak points. Additionally, pipe spooling can help maintain temperature and improve energy efficiency. With the addition of proper insulation into the piping, the steam remains at the desired temperature throughout its journey. In addition to improving steam distribution, pipe spooling is also valuable for effective power management. Integrating pipe spooling in power distribution allows for the installation of robust piping for steam-driven turbines and other power generation systems. This not only enhances the reliability of the energy supply but also supports efforts to optimise its energy consumption.
3. Natural Gas Processing and Distribution
Before it can be transported and used, natural gas must be processed to remove impurities and separate valuable components. While in the processing stage, natural gas must pass through various phases, including filtration, compression, and dehydration—each relying on a well-constructed piping system capable of withstanding fluctuating pressures and temperatures. Due to the complexity of this process, the reliable and efficient pipeline network made possible by pipe spooling becomes indispensable. With pipe spooling, organisations can ensure that piping segments are tailored to meet the unique requirements of each processing stage. This level of customisation ensures optimised performance and minimises the risk of failures or leaks. By implementing pipe spooling solutions, natural gas companies can develop extensive, customised piping networks that meet internal process needs while adhering to safety and operational standards.
4. Cooling and Heat Exchange Systems
Cooling and heat exchange systems are vital components in fuel refineries, as they help regulate temperatures and optimise energy usage. These systems facilitate heat transfer between fluids, ensuring that processes such as distillation, liquefaction, and condensation run efficiently. Pipe spooling is integral to the design and implementation of these systems, enabling the creation of tailored solutions that meet highly specific thermal and operational requirements. In cooling systems, for instance, the movement of coolant fluids through pipelines is essential for maintaining optimal operating temperatures of various equipment. With pipe spooling, cooling pipes can be designed to handle specific flow rates and temperature differentials. This prevents overheating that could result in equipment failures or reduced efficiency. Heat exchangers, on the other hand, rely on effective piping to transfer heat between two or more fluids. These systems have complex designs, often requiring intricate layouts to maximise heat transfer while minimising pressure drop. With pipe spooling, refineries can produce customised piping layouts that enhance the efficiency of heat exchangers, which can reduce heat loss during transfer.
LEARN MORE:
https://liquimech.com.au/.../the-critical-role-of-pipe.../

Pipe spooling refers to the off-site fabrication of piping sections, including necessary fittings and connections.