Acu-Tech Piping Systems stands at the forefront of the mining industry, offering tailored polyethylene pipe solutions that address the crucial need for effective waste management. With the mining sector under ever-increasing scrutiny regarding its environmental footprint, the handling of waste materials like tailings and slurry has never been more critical. Mishandling these materials can jeopardize not only ecosystems but also a mine’s social license to operate, making Acu-Tech’s role indispensable.
The company prides itself on being an Australian manufacturer that supplies directly to mining companies and contractors, ensuring they have access to all necessary pipeline solutions and fittings. Acu-Tech’s chief executive officer, Ivan Morren, emphasizes the importance of their products: “We’re an Australian manufacturer that supplies directly to the mining company or contractor, providing all the necessary pipeline solutions and fittings.” This direct supply chain allows for a more efficient and responsive service, crucial in an industry where time is of the essence.
Polyethylene (PE) pipes have emerged as the go-to choice for mining applications due to their robust performance in extreme conditions. Ivan highlights the unique advantages of PE pipes, noting their chemical resistance and fully welded, leak-free joints, which are vital for containing hazardous materials. The Acu-Therm White PE pipes, designed specifically to keep water or slurry cooler, further extend the service life of these systems. “More abrasion resistant than steel, PE pipe is widely used in mines for the transport of slurry,” Ivan adds, underscoring the material’s durability and cost-effectiveness.
Flexibility is another key trait of PE pipes, allowing for straightforward installation across uneven terrains without the need for special prep work. Unlike single-use plastics, these pipes are built to last, significantly reducing the frequency of costly replacements and minimizing environmental impact. Donovan Morren, Acu-Tech’s general manager, reinforces this point: “PE pipe is built to have a long design life and is 100 per cent recyclable.”
Since its inception in 2000, Acu-Tech has played a pivotal role in various mining applications, including slurry and tailings lines, above-ground pipelines, and dewatering systems. Their impressive portfolio includes significant projects like the Iron Bridge iron ore mine in Western Australia, where Acu-Tech delivered a staggering 270km of PE liner pipe as a corrosion liner within a high-pressure steel pipeline. The logistics of this project were no small feat, involving over 900 truck and trailer movements to ensure timely delivery. “As far as we are aware, it was Western Australia’s largest PE pipe project,” Ivan noted.
To manage both large and small projects effectively, Acu-Tech assigns dedicated project managers, ensuring smooth operations and timely deliveries. This level of organization is crucial, as delays can lead to increased labor costs and operational disruptions. Their investment in modern production and distribution facilities, including a state-of-the-art plant in Brisbane, allows Acu-Tech to meet the growing demand for large-diameter pipes while providing quicker service to clients in the eastern states.
Acu-Tech’s commitment to continuous improvement sets it apart in the industry. They are the only pipe manufacturer with a registered training organization and a NATA-accredited laboratory for weld testing. Their in-house transport fleet and equipment hire division further streamline the process for contractors, providing a one-stop shop for all pipeline needs. “They are able to get everything from one source, making it easy for the project to be a success,” Ivan concludes.
As the mining industry grapples with environmental challenges, Acu-Tech’s innovative approach to PE pipe solutions is poised to shape future developments in waste management, ensuring that mining operations can continue sustainably and responsibly.
