Project Overview:
66 kV Powerline Insulator Replacement – Oranjemund Diamond Mine
Skywolff Namibia completed a vital maintenance project on a 66 kV powerline feeding the Namdeb Diamond mine at Oranjemund.
The powerline, which consists of self-supporting tower structures with a total of 600 silicon-type rigid insulators, required a complete insulator replacement as part of its scheduled maintenance in 2010.
Key Achievements of the Project:
- Live-Line Insulator Replacement: Using advanced stick and barehand live-line techniques, all 600 insulators were replaced under live conditions, ensuring zero power interruptions or outages to the Diamond mine.
- Maintained Continuous Operations: The mine’s power supply was maintained throughout the project, allowing for uninterrupted mining operations, critical to the facility’s output and profits.
- Improved Infrastructure Reliability: The new insulators enhanced the reliability and safety of the 66 kV powerline, especially given the high-level of fog in the area. Thus, securing a stable energy supply for the mine’s future operations.
- Zero incidents or accidents: With the company’s non-negotiable approach towards safety; strict high-voltage live-line regulations and rules were always maintained. Thus, a zero incident records was kept throughout this project.
Skywolff Namibia’s successful use of live-line techniques demonstrates the company’s expertise in delivering complex powerline maintenance solutions while maintaining uninterrupted service for critical clients.