INNOVATION IN MINING AND METALS
Danang City, Vietnam
Hatch Africa (Pty) Ltd
QMM Ilmenite Project
Fort Dauphin, Madagascar
FINALIST
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The primary goal of this project was development of a productive ilmenite
mine consisting of a mining extraction pond, dredger, wet plant, and mineral
separation plant. Before construction of the $900 million industrial facility
could commence in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, Hatch Africa had to design
and build extensive ancillary services and infrastructure including a port,
power station, roads, water supply, and communications networks. Apart
from logistical challenges, the Madagascar environment posed challenges
for protecting flora and fauna. Despite mounting obstacles—from supply
shortages to periodic cyclones—Hatch achieved interaction and cooperation
among all parties to meet the goal.
steel fabrication contract order could be placed earlier than normal, which
improved the critical path of the construction schedule. Mechanical and piping
connection support requirements were taken directly from the multidiscipline
3D model, and quality-controlled piping isometrics required less checking time.
Finally, 3D multidiscipline design models were used for concise and effective
engineering and construction reviews.
2009 BE INSPIRED AWARDS
Hatch improved workflows and reduced costs by deploying 3D plant design
using MicroStation as the CAD platform and software including Bentley
Structural, TriForma, PlantSpace, and Bentley Navigator. The intelligent 3D
models reduced 2D drawing deliverables and produced steel fabrication and
construction drawings as part of the engineering effort. This ensured that the
From infrastructure improvements to employment opportunities and economic
development, the ilmenite mine will have a significant impact on the Fort
Dauphin community. The new port with extensive load-out facilities replaced
an underdeveloped and over-taxed city facility. The mining operation retained
530 permanent employees and generated 300 new businesses in the area.
The project also logged a world-class safety performance with a frequency
rate of 0.07 and 12 million hours worked without a lost-time injury. The safety
record stands as a testament to the degree of cooperation and coordination
experienced on this project.
