Introduction

Palaris was engaged for selection, mobilisation and project management of contractors for the construction of a new ventilation shaft for an underground longwall coal operations expansion.

Mandate

The Client’s expansion of its underground longwall thermal-PCI coal operations necessitated the construction of a new 5 m ventilation shaft. Palaris were engaged as Owners Engineer for project management of the shaft boring contract. In additional to achieving the required technical outcomes the scope included ensuring the shaft was completed within the legislative requirements and approvals conditions. A key requirement for the contract was establishing and maintaining communications as the interaction point between the contractor and Client.  

The scope of works included collar piling 25 m below ground level, excavation of pre-sink and construction of a ring beam, construction of a collar pad, establishment of ancillary equipment, a >300 m pilot hole, completion of the raise boring, removal or the cutting and installation and grouting of the steel liner for the length of the shaft.  

Approach

The Palaris project manager was based at the Client’s site for the duration of the project. Palaris worked within the Client’s own project performance requirements and systems as required.  

Palaris undertook a shaft lining corrosion protection assessment during the works identifying a design change opportunity to increase the steel liners effective life.

Outcome

The shaft was successfully delivered by Palaris on time and budget. The Client has continued to engage Palaris since deliver on additional projects for a range of additional services at its mine site.