On Thursday, May 22nd, a group of 15 fortunate Young Pipeline Professionals had the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the construction of APA's Kurri Kurri lateral pipeline project. This visit not only served as an invaluable educational experience but also underscored the extensive efforts involved in building critical gas infrastructure.
The day commenced with a comprehensive briefing on the project's background, scope, and construction processes. Attendees were provided with an overview of the project's significance and the meticulous planning required for its successful execution.
The first stop on the tour was the gas power station, currently under construction. This site houses essential APA infrastructure, including compressors, water baths, and electrical control rooms. Participants gained a deeper understanding of the critical components that support the efficient operation of gas power stations.
Following this, the group visited the gas storage bottle site, where they observed over 24 kilometers of high-pressure pipeline laid out within a compact footprint. This segment of the tour showcased the intricacies of pipeline construction, including the alignment of pipeline strings and the precision involved in the welding process.
The final destination of the tour was a horizontal directional drilling (HDD) location on the lateral pipeline. This advanced technique is employed to install pipelines in challenging terrains, such as beneath existing infrastructure. Observing HDD in action provided the attendees with a practical understanding of the innovative solutions used to overcome geographical and environmental challenges in pipeline construction.
The tour concluded with enthusiastic feedback from the attendees, who praised the depth of information shared and the insights gained into the pivotal role of gas pipelines in enhancing Australia's energy infrastructure.
This event would not have been possible without the generous support of APA and the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA). Their commitment to fostering industry knowledge and professional development is greatly appreciated.
Thank you to everyone involved for making this educational tour a resounding success.