Fruitico Grape Farm, a prominent grape producer in Western Australia, undertook a significant expansion to double its existing footprint. The new cool rooms, measuring 72 by 35 meters, were central to this expansion, necessitating substantial upgrades to the farm’s electrical and refrigeration infrastructure.
MECS Electrical & Controls collaborated closely with Frigtech and other stakeholders to deliver a comprehensive solution that addressed the increased capacity and ensured efficient operation of the new facilities.
Execution Strategy:
Infrastructure Upgrades:
High-Voltage Transformers: Western Power installed two new high-voltage transformers to meet the enhanced power requirements of the expanded facilities.
Site Main Switchboard (SMSB): MECS designed and installed a new SMSB to manage power distribution across the site.
Cabling and Power Distribution:
Chiller Power Supply: Installation of 1200-amp cabling to the new chiller to ensure reliable and efficient operation.
Distribution Boards: Provision of 500-amp cabling to the new distribution board (DB) and additional cabling to existing DBs, the generator, and the chiller to support the expanded infrastructure.
Control System Implementation:
Resource Data Management (RDM): Deployment of an advanced RDM control system to oversee the operations of the new cool rooms and chiller, providing precise temperature management and system monitoring capabilities.
Testing and Commissioning:
System Validation: Comprehensive testing of all electrical installations and control systems to ensure optimal performance and compliance with industry standards.
Commissioning: Bringing the new systems online in a controlled manner to verify functionality and integration with existing operations.
Training and Handover:
Staff Training: Providing Fruitico personnel with training on the new systems to ensure proficient operation and maintenance.
Documentation: Supplying detailed manuals and documentation to support ongoing system management and troubleshooting.
Challenges and Solutions:
- Coordinating with Multiple Stakeholders:
Effective collaboration with Western Power, Frigtech, and other parties was essential to synchronize activities and ensure timely project completion.
- Ensuring System Integration:
Integrating new electrical and control systems with existing infrastructure required meticulous planning and execution to achieve seamless operation.
- Managing Increased Power Demands:
Upgrading the power supply and distribution network was critical to support the expanded facilities and prevent potential overloads.
Outcome:
The Stage 2 expansion of Fruitico Grape Farm was successfully completed, resulting in a doubling of the facility’s capacity. The new electrical and control systems have enhanced operational efficiency, providing reliable power distribution and precise environmental control within the cool rooms.
Client Feedback:
Fruitico Grape Farm expressed satisfaction with the quality of work and the professionalism demonstrated by the MECS Electrical & Controls team. The seamless integration of the new systems and the minimal disruption to ongoing operations were particularly appreciated.
