Orica have reported in their Chemical Services Group Newsletter, on the successful completion of the 80 ktps cyanide plant uprate at Yarwun, for which Uhde Shedden was the EPCM contractor. As they reported "After a 7 week shutdown, the Cyanide plant is now operating at a significantly higher capacity. With virtually a complete new front-end installed, this is one of the most complex shutdowns ever undertaken since Orica's inception. Many of the main plant items were significantly altered and up-scaled in design, and are now operating in accordance with the new specifications. The operators have commented very favourably that the plant is easier to start up than before and shows more stable operation."
The newsletter went on to state that "there were over 150,000 hours worked on-site pre-shut and during the shutdown, without any recordable injuries or significant incidents. This was an excellent effort by the whole project team, which was a combined effort from many sources." Orica's project manager, Phil Johnson complimented Uhde Shedden and construction contractor Downer EDI on "an extremely well planned and safely executed work scope". He added "I would also like to add what a fantastic achievement for the whole team at the Cyanide Plant and the Construction team. This is a great example of working together to achieve a safe shutdown and taking ownership of the project to ensure all processes were completed and safety was of the utmost."