2007-08-22 - ABB’s expert planning and successful completion of the high profile Arahura to Otira line realignment works has been recognised by Transpower.
Auckland, New Zealand, August 22, 2007 - Bob Simpson, Transpower’s Grid Asset Manager, commented on the works to Grant Gillard, Country Manager, ABB:
“Would you please thank your staff and those supporting them for the good efforts during the Arahura (to) Otira line realignment works. The job was well planned and executed.”
At the request of Transpower, ABB were involved from the conceptual planning to the completion of works on the project under the guidance of ABB Project Manager, Lindsay White. Lindsay and his team scoped the project and costings to Transpower to replace the hazard of double-circuit pole line configurations (one circuit above the other vertically), to single-circuit pole line configurations (one circuit next to each other, with five to eight metres space between them) on the Arahura to Otira line. Double-circuit pole lines can be hazardous to carry out maintenance or other works due to the close proximity of the other live wire.
ABB worked closely with Transpower and Westpower to organise the six-hour power shut to the greater Hokitika area to coincide with the local milk factory’s annual shut for the year; Sunday 8 July. During the works the team changed the configuration of nine pole sets, as well as maintenance and repair works to another three sites along the line. ABB’s contractors Transfield and Electronet Services assisted with ensuring the works were carried out on time and safely.
Along with the placement of 23 large plant, including cranes and bulldozers, helicopters were also used as part of the works for a variety of practicality and safety reasons.
Rob Silcock, General Manager – ABB Power Systems, says:
“It is good to receive positive feedback as we understood the importance of the power shut down and the works to both Transpower and the local community”.
ABB (www.abb.com) is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of Companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 111,000 people.