Detailed design of a 45-kilometre pipeline in a remote location

Remote Managed Aquifer Recharge North Project

Roy Hill’s Pilbara operation consists of a conventional open-pit bulk mining operation with a 60 million tonnes per year processing plant. One consistent challenge for mine operators? Managing groundwater. Storing and recycling the water is the most sustainable option and mitigates any environmental risk to local flora and fauna.

We were brought in to manage the detailed design of a pipeline to transport dewatered saline water from the remote Pilbara region mine to an aquifer approximately 45 kilometres (28 miles) away.

It’s anticipated that the pipeline will have to cross approximately eight roads and tracks, 20 minor creeks, and the Fortescue River. The pipeline design will need to consider both above and below ground options to ensure the most appropriate solution is found for crossing these remote areas. The detailed design will also be required to identify relevant field test works, any capital implications from constructing the transfer pond, and any related miscellaneous infrastructure design.

When complete, this transportation pipeline will protect the natural environment around Roy Hill’s Pilbara mine from saline water pollution. The saline water will be stored and used at a later date for things like dust mitigation.