South32 engaged Teksal Safety to conduct a survey and maintenance program for its Worsley Alumina Refinery in Collie, Western Australia.
Teksal Safety’s Technical Sales Manager Steve Parks conducted the survey and maintenance of Sofis (formerly Smith Flow Control) pressure safety valve (PSV) interlocks for the digestors across the site.
How interlocks work
Valve interlocks enforce and guarantee a pre-defined sequence of operation, and therefore eliminate human error.
They are used in many applications where safe and ‘first time right’ valve operation is required, such as PSVs, pig launching and receiving, inert gas systems, pump start up, flare lines, boiler blow-down, and ‘2 out of 3‘.
Where there is risk to process, personnel or environment, valve interlocks are deployed to mitigate errors as they provide an engineered solution rather than an administrative control, ranking higher as a proven risk management strategy.
About the project
Beginning operations in 1984, Worsley Alumina is one of the largest integrated bauxite mining and alumina refineries in the world.
About South32
South32 strives to make a difference by developing natural resources, improving people’s lives now and for generations to come.
About Teksal Safety’s interlocking services
Our manufacturing partner, Sofis, manufactures valve operation systems such as mechanical valve interlocks, portable actuators and valve position indicators. It is the world’s largest interlock manufacturer, providing bespoke design solutions that protect people and property throughout the world.
Teksal Safety is the Australian and New Zealand distributor for Sofis Smith Interlocks and Sofis Netherlocks valve interlocking and process safety systems, and sources and supports Sofis’ complete range.
Teksal Safety’s valve interlocking services include valve survey, interlock supply, installation, commissioning and training.
Our technicians are HUET/TBOSIET- and MSIC-certified and are available for services both on and offshore.
As well as undertaking site work as needed, Teksal Safety technicians offer a program of site visits to:
- Assess survey valve interlocking systems to confirm material condition and functionality of locks
- Perform preventative maintenance and repair activities where possible
- Document corrective actions where needed
- Establish a planned maintenance and inspection program for the interlocks on your facility
- Establish / maintain colour-coded key management for visual indication of valve and system status, consistent with original interlock specifications
- Ensure key management systems are functional and adequate for current interlocks on site
- Create an interlock register of all valve interlocks and codes on site
- Conduct operator and maintenance training as required
For more information about any of our technical services or maintenance programs, call 1300 TEKSAL or email sales@teksal.com.au.
