Viva Energy Newport Terminal Diesel Tank Replacement
Viva Energy Newport is a critical fuel distribution hub strategically located near key transport routes in Melbourne (West Gate Freeway). This location makes it essential for fuel storage and distribution across the city’s major road networks.
The project is part of Viva Energy’s broader diesel tank replacement program at their Newport terminal, designed to modernize infrastructure and enhance safety and reliability by replacing existing aging, riveted tanks. Crucially, this program replaces existing capacity and does not increase the total volume stored at the facility.
Gordon McKay was awarded the Electrical & Instrument installation package for two new 10 million-litre tanks in 2024. The core scope of work involved:
1. Supply and installation of a new electrical switch room, which was pre-built off-site, delivered, and landed. This facility supplies the power and control necessary for the pumps, motor-operated valves, and gauging systems.
2. Execution of the installation and termination of all hazardous area electrical equipment within the operating hazardous storage facility at Newport.
3. Responsibility for ensuring the entire installation complies with strict safety standards and environmental regulations critical in areas with hazardous materials, such as fuel storage facilities.
The project was staged over a twelve-month period, presenting two major complexity challenges:
1. The most challenging aspect was executing integral tie-ins to the existing plant for communication and safety systems while the remainder of the plant remained a fully functional fuel storage and delivery point to outgoing transportation of all types of hydrocarbons. This required meticulous planning and execution.
2. The execution relied on a dedicated team of highly skilled hazardous area specialist electrical and instrument personnel. As part of a multidisciplinary team, Gordon McKay worked alongside engineers, safety officers, and other skilled professionals to ensure the installation was completed efficiently, safely, and without disruption to live operations.
