Eyre Peninsula Pipeline

THE PROJECT

For many years groundwater extraction has been the main form of water supply to the Eyre Peninsula.

Over recent years extraction rates have increased to a level far exceeding replenishment and this has reduced water quality and depleted supplies. As depleted water supplies began to impact the local economy, the South Australian Water Corporation decided to construct a 90km water pipeline connecting Iron Knob to Kimba, on the upper Eyre Peninsula.

The project was not without its difficulties. The pipelines route followed the Eyre Peninsula highway, simplifying site access but presenting traffic management issues.

Extremely abrasive soils also slowed the construction of the 750mm wide by 1400mm deep trench with most grueling stretch of 300m taking an entire week to cut using excavators.

THE SOLUTION

In order to ensure construction was complete by early 2007, the South Australian Water Corporation required dedication and reliability from its pipe supplier.

Viadux supplied all 90km’s of TYTON DN 375mm Ductile Iron Cement Lined pipe. Viadux also provided contractors BJ Jarrad Pty Ltd and Leed Engineering Pty Ltd with a comprehensive training course, outlining correct installation procedures.

This Century Plus II training course, will help the Eyre Peninsula pipeline meet design life expectations.

THE RESULT

By January 2007 the entire pipeline had been successfully hydrostatically pressure tested.

Through the TYTON Ductile Iron Cement Lined pipes, the Eyre Peninsula pipeline will supply the Eyre Peninsula with up to 1.4GL of water each day, servicing SA Water customers between Kimba and Lock.