ABB to build $30M substation in Australia

ABB will build a $30 million substation to increase power supply and allow Rio Tinto to expand iron ore mining at Hope Downs mines in the Pilbara region.

The turnkey project includes the design, supply, installation and commissioning of a new 220/33 kilovolt substation that will provide power to the new Hope Downs-4 mine. The order includes civil and electrical works as well as the supply of power transformers, instrumentation transformers, disconnectors and a range of high- and medium-voltage air-insulated switchgear. Substation automation systems compliant with the IEC 61850 global standard will be supplied and equipped with the company’s latest generation of protection and control products. The substation will also feature 11 kV reactors and capacitor banks, which will help to reduce electric losses and improve network stability. The project is scheduled for completion by mid 2012.

“Reliability, efficiency and quality of power supply are critical to ensure productivity in mining operations, and this new substation will help to meet Rio Tinto's additional electricity needs and support the company's expansion plans,” said Peter Leupp, head of ABB’s Power Systems division.