Mt Isa Mines

Mt Isa Mines, Mt Isa, QLD 
Products used: Mapress 316 stainless steel pressure system & Blucher 316L stainless steel drainage system

Mining giant Xstrata uses both Blucher stainless steel piping and the Mapress pressfit joining system at its lead and zinc operations at Mount Isa Mines in Queensland.

Tony Moloney, Xstrata Zinc's Piping Superintendent, says the company uses Blucher products for freshwater throughout the lead and zinc plant. "The main reason we changed to stainless steel was to prevent contamination," Mr Moloney said. "It is extremely important that we have full control of the fresh water we use for human consumption, as well as for mining instrumentation, and we can't afford any chance of lead or zinc contaminating it."

Mr Moloney said Xstrata chose Blucher for a number of reasons. "The initial cost may look to be a lot dearer," he said. "But if you look at the time saved in installation and the time-life of the pipe, it's well worth the price. It's easy to install, it's neat and tidy and doesn't sag. It's still as good as the day we put it in."

"In Xstrata's situation, it has to withstand a lot of sun and heat. PVC has been known to break down and become brittle; whereas stainless steel doesn't, and it won't corrode or rust.

Blucher Australia's ability to supply the product promptly and efficiently was another bonus for Xstrata. "Because the product is in Australia, we can generally acquire what we want as soon as the transport can be organised,' said Mr Moloney. "Products from the USA can take three to four months in delivery time, while I have found Blucher's back-up and support second to none."