3D LiDAR Scanning Tomago Aluminium – Supporting Smelter Plant Upgrades

3D LiDAR scanning Tomago Aluminium smelter illustration showing FARO laser scanner, industrial point cloud, CAD modelling and plant upgrades.

Blue 3D LiDAR scanner icon on a tripod with scanning waves

Aluminium smelting facilities contain complex arrangements of mechanical equipment, structural steelwork, pipework, ventilation systems, conveyors and production infrastructure. When existing equipment requires modification or replacement, accurate dimensional information is essential to reducing installation risks and avoiding costly delays.

Hamilton By Design provides 3D LiDAR scanning, point cloud processing, scan-to-CAD modelling and mechanical engineering services for industrial facilities in Tomago, Newcastle and the Hunter Region.

Our services support maintenance teams, project engineers, shutdown planners and engineering contractors undertaking plant upgrades, equipment replacements and mechanical modifications.

By combining 3D laser scanning with practical mechanical engineering experience, we help project teams understand existing plant conditions before commencing detailed design, fabrication or installation.

Supporting Aluminium Smelter Upgrades at Tomago

Tomago Aluminium is a major aluminium smelting operation located near Newcastle in New South Wales. Its industrial environment contains extensive production equipment, mechanical infrastructure, structural steelwork and supporting services.

Aluminium smelters require ongoing maintenance, equipment replacement and engineering modifications to support plant reliability, operational efficiency and workplace safety.

Hamilton By Design offers engineering and dimensional measurement services relevant to these activities, including:

3D LiDAR scanning of existing industrial equipment and structures.
Mechanical equipment replacement and retrofit design.
Fume extraction ductwork and ventilation modifications.
Conveyor and material handling system upgrades.
Structural steelwork and mechanical support arrangements.
Industrial pipework and service routing.
Equipment access platforms and machine guarding.
Point cloud modelling for plant modification projects.
General arrangement and fabrication drawing development.
Dimensional verification before planned shutdowns.

Our objective is to provide accurate existing-condition information that supports practical engineering decisions and reduces uncertainty during plant modifications.

Why 3D LiDAR Scanning Is Important for Aluminium Smelters

Industrial facilities frequently undergo modifications throughout their operating life. Equipment may be replaced, structural supports altered, pipework rerouted and access arrangements changed.

Over time, existing drawings may no longer accurately represent the installed plant.

Traditional measurement methods can also become difficult where equipment is congested, access is restricted or multiple mechanical systems occupy the same area.

3D LiDAR scanning provides a practical method of capturing existing plant geometry and developing a digital reference for engineering design.

The resulting point cloud can be used to identify existing equipment positions, structural interfaces, pipework routes and available installation clearances.

This information can help engineers develop modifications around actual site conditions rather than relying solely on historical drawings or assumed dimensions.

Fume Extraction and Ventilation System Modifications

Fume extraction and ventilation systems are important components of aluminium smelting operations.

These systems can include extensive ductwork, extraction hoods, support frames, transitions, fans and associated mechanical equipment.

Replacing or modifying existing ductwork can present dimensional challenges, particularly where new components must connect to equipment installed many years earlier.

Hamilton By Design can provide 3D LiDAR scanning to capture accessible existing ductwork arrangements and surrounding structures.

Point cloud information can then support:

Existing ductwork geometry assessment.
Replacement duct and transition design.
Flange and connection location assessment.
Structural support modifications.
Available clearance verification.
3D modelling of proposed ductwork arrangements.
Fabrication and installation drawing development.

Critical connections and fabrication interfaces may require supplementary dimensional verification to achieve the required tolerances.

Mechanical Equipment and Potline Infrastructure

Aluminium smelting facilities contain closely integrated mechanical equipment, process infrastructure and associated services.

Modifying one component can affect surrounding structures, maintenance access, equipment clearances and service connections.

3D scanning can help establish the relationship between existing equipment and proposed modifications.

Hamilton By Design can assist with mechanical equipment support frames, access arrangements, guarding, service installations and other mechanical engineering modifications.

Where scanning is proposed near operating smelting equipment, site-specific conditions such as heat, electromagnetic interference, access restrictions and operational safety requirements must be assessed before work commences.

Conveyor and Material Handling System Upgrades

Material handling equipment is essential to industrial production facilities.

Conveyors, transfer points, support frames and associated equipment may require modifications to improve reliability, accommodate replacement components or support changing operational requirements.

Hamilton By Design provides mechanical engineering and 3D scanning services relevant to:

Conveyor modifications and equipment replacement.
Transfer chute design and replacement.
Material discharge arrangements.
Mechanical equipment support structures.
Conveyor guarding and maintenance access.
Existing equipment interface assessment.
Fabrication drawing development.

By scanning the surrounding equipment and structural arrangements, proposed modifications can be assessed against the available installation space before fabrication.

Industrial Pipework and Service Modifications

Aluminium smelting facilities rely on various industrial services, including cooling water, compressed air and other process utilities.

Pipework modifications can become difficult where existing systems are congested or where installation space is limited.

3D LiDAR scanning can capture the surrounding plant geometry and provide a reference for developing proposed pipe routes.

The point cloud can assist engineers in identifying potential clashes, assessing maintenance access and developing installation arrangements.

For precision-critical connections, flange positions, bolt patterns and other interfaces should be verified using measurement methods appropriate to the required fabrication accuracy.

Reducing Shutdown Fit-Up Risk with 3D Scanning

One of the greatest challenges in industrial maintenance and shutdown projects is ensuring that replacement equipment fits correctly when delivered to site.

A replacement duct, conveyor component, pipe spool or mechanical support may appear suitable during design but encounter unexpected interference during installation.

These conflicts can lead to site modifications, additional fabrication, rework and delays.

3D LiDAR scanning helps move dimensional uncertainty from the shutdown installation period into the engineering design stage.

By developing proposed equipment models against existing-condition point clouds, engineering teams can assess potential clashes and installation constraints before fabrication begins.

This approach can support:

Improved understanding of existing plant geometry.
Earlier identification of equipment clashes.
Better coordination between engineering and fabrication teams.
Reduced reliance on assumed site dimensions.
More informed shutdown planning.
Reduced risk of unexpected installation rework.

Although scanning cannot eliminate every installation risk, it provides valuable information for improving project preparation.

From 3D LiDAR Scanning to Engineering Drawings

Hamilton By Design offers an integrated workflow that combines site measurement, point cloud processing, mechanical engineering and drawing development.

Stage 1 – Site Assessment

Establish the scanning scope, project objectives, required deliverables, site access and dimensional accuracy requirements.

Stage 2 – 3D LiDAR Scanning

Capture accessible existing equipment, pipework, structures and surrounding infrastructure using terrestrial laser scanning equipment.

Stage 3 – Point Cloud Registration

Process and register the scan data to develop a coordinated digital reference of the scanned plant areas.

Stage 4 – Scan-to-CAD Modelling

Convert relevant point cloud information into 3D CAD models using engineering software such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD.

Stage 5 – Mechanical Engineering Design

Develop proposed equipment modifications, assess available clearances and review the arrangement against the existing plant geometry.

Stage 6 – Engineering Drawing Development

Prepare agreed general arrangement drawings, fabrication drawings and other project documentation.

This coordinated approach helps reduce repeated site measurement and provides continuity between dimensional capture and engineering design.

3D Scanning and Mechanical Engineering Deliverables

Depending on project requirements, Hamilton By Design can provide:

Registered 3D point cloud files in E57 and RCP formats.
3D CAD models of existing mechanical equipment and structures.
STEP and Parasolid models for engineering coordination.
AutoCAD general arrangement drawings.
Mechanical equipment modification drawings.
Fabrication drawings for defined components.
Navisworks-compatible models for design coordination.
PDF drawing packages for project review and controlled issue.

The required level of detail, modelling scope and dimensional tolerances are established during project planning.

Engineering Experience Beyond 3D Scanning

Hamilton By Design combines dimensional measurement technology with practical mechanical engineering experience.

Our capabilities extend beyond collecting point cloud information to include mechanical design, reverse engineering, equipment modifications, engineering modelling and fabrication documentation.

We understand that successful plant modifications require more than a visually accurate 3D model.

Engineering teams also need to consider installation access, equipment interfaces, fabrication methods, structural support arrangements, maintenance requirements and operational constraints.

By combining scanning and mechanical engineering services, Hamilton By Design can support projects from existing-condition capture through to design and drawing development.

3D LiDAR Scanning Across Tomago, Newcastle and the Hunter Region

Hamilton By Design supports industrial engineering projects throughout Tomago and the surrounding Hunter Region.

Our services are relevant to facilities and contractors operating in:

Tomago
Newcastle
Hexham
Beresfield
Mayfield
Kooragang Island
Williamtown
Raymond Terrace
Port Stephens
The broader Hunter Region

We support projects involving aluminium production, industrial manufacturing, mining, mineral processing, material handling and heavy industrial maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can 3D LiDAR scanning be completed in an operating aluminium smelter?

Scanning may be possible during normal operations, depending on site access, safety requirements and environmental conditions. Heat, electromagnetic interference, moving equipment and restricted access areas must be assessed before mobilisation.

Can 3D scanning help with replacement ductwork?

Yes. Scanning can capture accessible existing ductwork and surrounding infrastructure to support replacement duct design, transition development and installation planning. Critical fabrication interfaces may require additional verification.

Can point cloud data be used to develop fabrication drawings?

Yes. Point cloud information can provide the basis for 3D CAD modelling and fabrication drawing development. Required dimensions and connection details must be verified to the tolerances appropriate for manufacturing.

What accuracy can be expected from industrial 3D LiDAR scanning?

Accuracy depends on equipment, scan distance, environmental conditions, registration quality and the geometry being measured. For larger registered industrial datasets, approximately ±5–10 mm may be a preliminary planning allowance, but the achievable project accuracy must be assessed and verified. Precision-critical connections may require supplementary measurement.

Can Hamilton By Design provide mechanical engineering as well as scanning?

Yes. Hamilton By Design provides 3D LiDAR scanning, scan-to-CAD modelling, mechanical equipment design, reverse engineering, general arrangement drawings and fabrication documentation.

Can 3D scanning reduce shutdown delays?

3D scanning can help identify dimensional conflicts before installation, reducing the risk of avoidable site rework. Actual time savings depend on the project scope, engineering verification and shutdown execution.

Discuss Your Tomago Aluminium Smelter Upgrade

Whether your project involves replacement ductwork, conveyor modifications, pipework changes, mechanical equipment replacement or structural support arrangements, accurate existing-condition information is an important starting point.

Hamilton By Design provides 3D LiDAR scanning and mechanical engineering services to support industrial plant upgrades in Tomago, Newcastle and the Hunter Region.

We can assist with capturing existing plant geometry, developing 3D CAD models, reviewing proposed equipment arrangements and preparing engineering drawings.

Contact Hamilton By Design to discuss your next industrial scanning or mechanical engineering project.

Website: https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/

Hamilton By Design is an independent engineering service provider. This article describes services applicable to aluminium smelting facilities and does not imply an existing commercial relationship with Tomago Aluminium.

Contact Us – Talk To Us

Call Us
Now

E-Mail Us
Now

Name

First

Last

Company / Organisation / Private Project

Your Role / Owner

Would you like us to arrange a phone consultation for you?

Phone

Address

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

City

State / Province / Region

Postal Code

Country

Private / Role

Comment or Message

Our clients:

Smelter Engineering, LiDAR Scanning and Scan-to-CAD Services in Newcastle NSW

Aluminium Smelter Laser Scanning Services in Tomago NSW

Tomago Engineering & 3D Laser Scanning Services | Hamilton By Design

Smelter 3D LiDAR Scanning Services Newcastle NSW

16 October 202616 October 2026

3D LiDAR Scanning Peak Mine – Supporting Gold and Base Metals Processing Plant Upgrades

Conceptual illustration of 3D LiDAR scanning for Peak Mine plant upgrades, showing point cloud capture, CAD modelling, chute clearance checks and installation planning.

Planning a chute replacement, pipework modification or equipment upgrade starts with understanding the plant that is already there. Hamilton By Design offers 3D LiDAR scanning for projects at Peak Mine and across the Cobar region, helping engineering and maintenance teams capture existing conditions before design and fabrication begin.

Our workflow connects site measurements with practical engineering deliverables:

Scan → Model → Engineer → Upgrade

Supporting Processing Plant Projects in the Cobar Region

Aurelia Metals’ Peak operation near Cobar includes underground mining areas and a gold and base metals processing plant handling lead-zinc-gold and copper-gold ores.

For modifications within an established processing plant, the challenge is often fitting new equipment around existing infrastructure. Older drawings may not reflect previous alterations, while congested areas can make manual measurements difficult.

3D LiDAR scanning captures visible plant geometry as a point cloud, providing a spatial reference for planning modifications, checking clearances and developing engineering models.

Hamilton By Design can support proposed Peak Mine projects with scanning, scan-to-CAD modelling, mechanical design and fabrication documentation.

Capture Existing Conditions Before Design

A registered point cloud allows designers to review the relationship between equipment, supporting steelwork, pipework and access routes.

Depending on the project scope and site access, scanning can capture:

Conveyors, transfer points and chute arrangements.
Accessible bins, hoppers and equipment exteriors.
Pipework, pump installations and service corridors.
Platforms, walkways, stairs and surrounding steelwork.
Equipment foundations and visible connection locations.
Available space for installation and maintenance access.

This information helps establish the constraints that influence a replacement component or plant modification.

Chute Replacement and Conveyor Modifications

A replacement chute needs to suit both the material handling duty and the available installation space.

Scanning can help establish the relationship between conveyor discharge points, receiving equipment, support steelwork and surrounding services. These measurements provide a basis for developing chute geometry and reviewing how the proposed assembly will be installed.

Hamilton By Design can assist with:

Existing chute and transfer point modelling.
Replacement chute layouts.
Flange and interface positioning.
Liner arrangements and maintenance access.
General arrangement and fabrication drawings.
Installation clearance reviews.

Material flow performance, wear protection and supporting loads require engineering assessment alongside the captured geometry.

Pipework, Pumps and Equipment Fit-Up

Pipe routes and equipment installations often pass through areas with limited clearance. A point cloud helps designers assess proposed arrangements against the surrounding plant before components are fabricated.

Typical applications include pump skid replacements, pipe spool layouts, service rerouting, equipment relocations and maintenance access improvements.

Critical interfaces—such as flange faces, bolt patterns and equipment connection points—can require supplementary measurements or closer inspection. We identify these requirements when defining the scanning and design scope.

From Point Clouds to Engineering Models and Drawings

The most useful deliverable depends on what the project team needs to decide or build.

Deliverable	Project application
Registered point cloud	Reviewing existing plant conditions
3D CAD model	Developing equipment layouts and modifications
Combined point cloud and design review	Checking clearances and potential clashes
General arrangement drawings	Communicating position, dimensions and interfaces
Fabrication drawings	Documenting approved components for manufacture
Installation views	Supporting assembly and shutdown planning

Deliverable formats can include E57, RCP, STEP, DXF and PDF, as agreed for the project.

Plan Fabrication and Shutdown Work Earlier

Discovering an interference during installation can lead to site modifications, additional labour and delays.

By comparing proposed designs with captured site conditions, project teams can identify potential problems earlier and make better-informed decisions about fabrication, transport, lifting and assembly.

Scanning also helps teams review areas remotely, reducing the need for repeat measurement visits where the captured coverage is sufficient.

Site scanning is planned around inductions, permits, operating conditions and access restrictions. Equipment movement, obstructions and inaccessible surfaces affect what can be captured, so coverage and measurement requirements are agreed before mobilisation.

Discuss 3D LiDAR Scanning for Your Peak Mine Project

If you are planning a processing plant modification at Peak Mine or elsewhere in the Cobar region, Hamilton By Design can help establish the existing geometry and develop the models and drawings needed to progress the work.

Send through available drawings, photographs and a brief description of the proposed modification. We can define the scanning area, identify critical interfaces and prepare a scope suited to your project.

Contact Hamilton By Design to discuss 3D LiDAR scanning, mechanical design and scan-to-CAD support for your next plant upgrade.

Hamilton By Design is an independent engineering service provider. References to Peak Mine and Aurelia Metals identify the location and project context and do not imply an existing engagement or endorsement.

Contact Us – Talk To Us

Call Us
Now

E-Mail Us
Now

Name

First

Last

Company / Organisation / Private Project

Your Role / Owner

Would you like us to arrange a phone consultation for you?

Phone

Address

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

City

State / Province / Region

Postal Code

Country

Project Private a

Comment or Message

Our clients:

3D Scanning Engineering in Cobar

Engineering-Led LiDAR & Mechanical Design for Mining & Heavy Industry – Cobar NSW

3D Laser Scanning Cobar Mining | Brownfield Engineering NSW

Mining Engineering Services Cobar NSW | 3D Scanning & CAD

14 October 202614 October 2026

3D LiDAR Scanning Northparkes – Supporting Copper and Gold Processing Plant Upgrades

Illustration of 3D LiDAR scanning for Northparkes plant upgrades, showing point-cloud capture, CAD modelling, connection checks and shutdown planning.

Plant upgrades start with understanding what is already on site. When a replacement chute, pipe spool, pump skid or access platform must fit into an existing processing plant, incomplete drawings can leave critical dimensions uncertain.

Hamilton By Design offers 3D LiDAR scanning for projects at Northparkes and across the Parkes region, helping engineering teams capture existing conditions before design, fabrication and installation.

By combining laser scanning with mechanical engineering, 3D modelling and drafting, we can turn site measurements into practical information for plant modifications and shutdown planning.

Supporting Copper and Gold Processing Infrastructure

Northparkes is a copper-gold mining operation located approximately 27 kilometres north-west of Parkes in Central West NSW. Its onsite processing plant produces copper-gold-silver concentrate.

Modifications in this type of operating plant often involve working around existing equipment, pipework, support steel and maintenance access. The challenge is understanding how the proposed work will connect to the surrounding infrastructure.

A replacement component may need to:

Match existing flange positions and connection points.
Fit between conveyors, equipment and support steel.
Preserve access for inspection and maintenance.
Allow space for lifting, removal and installation.
Be installed within a planned shutdown window.

3D LiDAR scanning helps establish these constraints before the design progresses.

For broader regional coverage, see our Engineering-Grade 3D LiDAR Scanning in Parkes NSW services.

Capture Existing Conditions Before Design Begins

Existing plant drawings may not reflect years of repairs, equipment replacements and site modifications. Manual measurements can also miss surrounding obstructions or important offsets.

A registered point cloud provides a measurable three-dimensional record of the surfaces captured during scanning. Engineers and designers can use this information to check equipment locations, connection geometry and available space.

Depending on access and the project scope, scanning can capture:

Conveyors, transfer points, chutes and hoppers.
Crushers, screens and surrounding equipment.
Pumps, tanks, pipework and service routes.
Structural steel and equipment supports.
Platforms, stairs, ladders and handrails.
Equipment bases, floor levels and installation areas.

The scan scope should focus on the interfaces that determine whether the new component will fit. Critical dimensions and obscured connections may require additional measurement or verification.

Chute and Conveyor Upgrade Planning

Chute replacements depend on more than the dimensions of the chute itself. The design must account for the discharge position, receiving conveyor, support arrangement, surrounding steelwork and maintenance clearances.

For a chute or conveyor modification, Hamilton By Design can use scan data to help establish the existing layout and develop a model of the proposed arrangement.

This supports checks for:

Alignment between new and existing equipment.
Clashes with steelwork, pipework and platforms.
Liner replacement and inspection access.
Available space for guards and maintenance.
Installation and removal constraints.

Capturing the surrounding plant helps designers assess how the modification will work within the existing installation.

Pipework, Pumps and Equipment Fit-Up

Pipework modifications can become difficult when existing flange positions, elevations or support locations are uncertain.

3D LiDAR scanning can help establish the spatial arrangement around pump stations, pipe racks and equipment connections. Scan-to-CAD modelling can then support proposed pipe routes, pump skid layouts and equipment positioning.

Where fabrication depends on precise connection details, we establish the required accuracy and verification approach before work begins. Some interfaces may need closer scanning, direct measurement or inspection during a shutdown.

From Point Cloud to Engineering Deliverables

Hamilton By Design can develop the captured information into deliverables suited to the project, including:

Registered point clouds.
Existing-condition 3D CAD models.
General arrangement drawings.
Proposed equipment and pipework layouts.
Clash reviews and fit-up assessments.
Fabrication drawings within the agreed design scope.

Point clouds can be supplied in formats such as E57 or RCP, with CAD models and drawings prepared to suit the client’s software and documentation requirements.

Our 3D Scanning for Central West NSW Gold and Copper Processing Plants post explains how this workflow supports regional processing facilities.

Better Information for Shutdown Planning

Reliable site information allows more engineering and fabrication work to be completed before a shutdown starts.

A scan-based model can help teams identify installation constraints, review component clearances and coordinate proposed work around existing assets. It can also reduce the need for repeated site visits to collect missing dimensions.

These benefits depend on capturing the required areas and checking critical interfaces early.

Discuss Your Northparkes Scanning Requirements

Planning a chute replacement, conveyor modification, pipework upgrade or equipment installation?

Hamilton By Design can assist with 3D LiDAR scanning Northparkes, scan-to-CAD modelling, mechanical design and fabrication documentation.

Provide the proposed work area, available drawings, required deliverables and shutdown timing so we can establish a suitable scanning and engineering scope.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can scanning be undertaken while the plant is operating?
Some areas can be scanned during operation, subject to site approval, safe access and visibility. Restricted areas or obscured interfaces may require shutdown access.

Can the point cloud be converted into SolidWorks or AutoCAD deliverables?
Yes. Selected plant geometry can be developed into CAD models and drawings according to the agreed scope.

Can scanning confirm whether replacement equipment will fit?
Scan data can support fit-up checks against captured existing geometry. Critical connections, tolerances and areas hidden from the scanner require suitable verification.

Contact Us – Talk To Us

Call Us
Now

E-Mail Us
Now

Name

First

Last

Project Owner arrange

Company / Organisation / Private Project

Your Role / Owner

Would you like us to arrange a phone consultation for you?

Phone

Address

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

City

State / Province / Region

Postal Code

Country

Comment or Message

Our clients:

Orange NSW 3D LiDAR Scanning for Brownfield Processing Plants

3D LiDAR Scanning for Processing Plants in Blayney NSW

Engineering-Led 3D Laser Scanning in Bathurst

3D Scanning Engineering in Dubbo

11 October 202611 October 2026

Coal Chute Design Upper Hunter Valley: Reduce Shutdown Fit-Up Risk with 3D Scanning

FARO laser scanner capturing a coal transfer chute in the Upper Hunter Valley, with point-cloud overlays highlighting upgrade interfaces.

Reduce Shutdown Upgrade Fit-Up Risk with 3D Laser Scanning for Your Coal Chute

A replacement coal chute can be fabricated exactly to the drawing and still fail to fit the plant.

Existing supports may have moved. Flanges may have been modified. Additional bracing, pipework or cable trays may occupy the installation space. Older drawings may no longer represent the equipment installed on site.

When these differences are discovered during a shutdown, the consequences can include field cutting, additional welding, revised lifting arrangements and delays to returning the plant to service.

Hamilton By Design provides coal chute design, 3D scanning and mechanical engineering support for projects across Muswellbrook, Singleton and the Upper Hunter Valley. We capture existing plant geometry, develop the proposed chute within its surrounding environment and check critical interfaces before fabrication.

The objective is practical: identify fit-up problems early, when there is still time to resolve them.

Why Coal Chute Upgrades Need Reliable Site Information

Coal chutes connect equipment within a larger materials handling system. Their design must consider the relationship between the incoming conveyor, discharge point, chute supports and receiving equipment.

A replacement chute may need to connect with:

Existing discharge hoods and head pulley arrangements.
Receiving conveyors and loading zones.
Structural supports and mounting plates.
Skirting and dust containment systems.
Platforms, walkways and guarding.
Inspection doors and maintenance access.
Adjacent pipework, cable trays and services.

Measuring only the chute opening can leave important installation constraints unresolved.

A chute might fit between its connection points but clash with nearby steelwork. A liner access door might open directly into a handrail. A larger replacement assembly might be difficult to move through the available installation route.

Coal chute design needs to consider both the equipment and the space required to install, operate and maintain it.

Use 3D Scanning Before Finalising the Chute Design

3D laser scanning captures the visible geometry of the existing chute and surrounding plant from multiple positions.

The scans are registered into a point cloud that can be used for measurement, modelling and engineering review.

For a coal chute upgrade, the capture scope can include:

Chute inlet and outlet positions.
Visible flange and support geometry.
Conveyor alignment and surrounding equipment.
Structural steelwork and bracing.
Access platforms, stairs and handrails.
Services near the proposed modification.
Available space for removal and installation.

This provides a broader understanding of the existing installation than a small set of isolated measurements.

The proposed chute model can then be positioned within the point cloud to assess how it relates to the actual plant.

For related regional services, see Mine Conveyor Gallery Scanning Hunter Valley NSW.

Check Critical Interfaces Before Fabrication

Fit-up risk often concentrates at the points where new equipment connects with existing plant.

For coal chutes, these may include mounting faces, support brackets, flange connections and the relationship between the chute outlet and receiving conveyor.

Hamilton By Design uses the scan and engineering model to review these interfaces before drawings are released for fabrication.

Depending on the project, the review can address:

Connection positions and orientations.
Support spacing and elevations.
Clearance around the chute body.
Access to bolts and installation tools.
Space for liners and inspection doors.
Interfaces with existing guarding.
Allowance for fabrication and installation tolerances.

Critical dimensions require a measurement method suited to their tolerance. Small bolt holes, concealed faces and close-tolerance connections may need direct measurement or supplementary scanning.

The required accuracy should be agreed at the start of the project, with any inaccessible or uncertain interfaces clearly identified.

Coal Chute Design Must Also Consider Material Flow

A chute that fits the plant still needs to handle the coal effectively.

Coal chute design should consider the operating conditions supplied by the client, including:

Required throughput.
Incoming belt speed and material trajectory.
Coal lump size and fines content.
Bulk density and moisture variation.
Available transfer height.
Receiving conveyor arrangement.
Existing wear, blockage or spillage problems.

These inputs help guide the chute geometry, liner arrangement, access requirements and transfer configuration.

Where material behaviour is complex, specialist material-flow assessment or Discrete Element Method modelling may be appropriate. The level of analysis should match the problem and the consequences of poor performance.

3D scanning establishes the existing geometry. Engineering assessment determines how the proposed coal chute should function within that geometry.

Design for Maintenance and Liner Replacement

Maintenance access should be considered while developing the chute.

A compact design may appear suitable in a general arrangement but become difficult to maintain once installed. Wear liners may be obstructed by supports, fasteners may be inaccessible, or removable sections may lack a practical handling route.

Depending on the scope, chute design can consider:

Replaceable wear liner sections.
Access to liner fasteners.
Inspection and clean-out openings.
Removable panels and chute sections.
Space for maintenance tools.
Component handling and removal paths.

Lifting provisions and structural support changes require appropriate engineering assessment.

Considering these requirements before fabrication helps maintenance teams understand how the chute will be serviced throughout its operating life.

Plan the Shutdown Around the Proposed Installation

A digital model can support discussions between the engineering team, fabricator, maintenance personnel and shutdown planner.

Together, they can review how the existing chute will be removed and how the replacement will reach its final position.

Questions to resolve include:

Can the chute be installed as one assembly?
Does it need to be divided into smaller sections?
Which existing items need temporary removal?
Are the proposed connections accessible?
Is enough space available to manoeuvre the assembly?
What work can be completed before the shutdown?

Resolving these questions early helps define the fabrication package and installation scope.

The scan supports this planning by showing the surrounding geometry. Final lifting methods, temporary works and site execution arrangements still need their own assessment.

From Site Capture to Coal Chute Fabrication Drawings

Hamilton By Design can develop a staged workflow suited to the project.

1. Define the Upgrade

Confirm the reason for the modification, operating requirements, existing problems, shutdown timing and required deliverables.

2. Capture the Existing Plant

Complete 3D scanning and supplementary measurements of the chute, supports, conveyors and relevant surrounding infrastructure.

Internal capture depends on safe access, isolation and visibility. Hidden or obstructed surfaces must be addressed separately.

3. Develop the Chute Design

Model the proposed chute against the captured plant, considering interfaces, material flow, liners, maintenance access and installation constraints.

4. Review the Arrangement

Review the design with the client and relevant site personnel. Resolve outstanding measurements and interface questions before fabrication release.

5. Prepare the Documentation

Depending on the agreed scope, deliverables can include:

Registered point clouds.
Existing-condition and proposed CAD models.
General arrangement drawings.
Chute fabrication and assembly drawings.
Wear liner layouts.
Interface details and installation information.
STEP, DWG, DXF and PDF files.

Learn more about our Mechanical Engineering Services in Muswellbrook.

Supporting Coal Chute Upgrades Across the Upper Hunter

Hamilton By Design supports coal chute and materials handling projects across Muswellbrook, Singleton, Denman and surrounding Upper Hunter mining areas, together with the wider Hunter Valley.

Typical applications include transfer chute replacements, worn chute reconstruction, conveyor modifications, liner upgrades and brownfield CHPP projects.

Our Hunter Valley Mining Engineering and 3D Laser Scanning Services provide broader regional support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can 3D scanning reduce coal chute fit-up risk?

Yes. It can help identify differences between existing drawings and visible site conditions, allowing proposed equipment to be reviewed before fabrication. It reduces uncertainty but does not guarantee installation fit.

Do we need scanning if we already have drawings?

Existing drawings are useful starting information. Scanning is particularly valuable where the plant has been modified, dimensions are uncertain or the replacement chute must fit within congested infrastructure.

Can you scan inside a coal chute?

Internal scanning may be possible where the chute is safely isolated, accessible and sufficiently clear. Access conditions and site requirements must be assessed before capture.

Can the existing chute be reverse engineered?

Visible and accessible geometry can support CAD reconstruction. Worn or damaged geometry must be assessed so that the new design reflects the intended function rather than simply copying deterioration.

When should the scan be completed?

Ideally, before detailed design and fabrication. This gives the project team time to resolve interface issues and prepare the upgrade before the shutdown.

Discuss Your Coal Chute Upgrade

If you are planning a coal chute replacement or conveyor transfer upgrade in the Upper Hunter Valley, involve Hamilton By Design before fabrication begins.

We can help establish the existing geometry, develop the chute design and review the interfaces that influence shutdown fit-up.

Capture the existing plant. Check the proposed chute. Prepare the upgrade before the shutdown.

Contact Hamilton By Design to discuss your chute design and 3D scanning requirements.

Contact Us – Talk To Us

Call Us
Now

E-Mail Us
Now

Name

First

Last

Company / Organisation / Private Project

/ like Email

Your Role / Owner

Would you like us to arrange a phone consultation for you?

Phone

Address

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

City

State / Province / Region

Postal Code

Country

Comment or Message

Our clients:

Coal Chute Design

CHPP Engineering & 3D Scanning

Coal Conveyor 3D Scanning Hunter Valley NSW | CHPP Engineering

Design Chutes for Maintenance

10 October 202610 October 2026

3D LiDAR Scanning and Mechanical Engineering Henderson WA

Practical engineering for marine facilities, fabrication workshops and industrial plant

Hamilton By Design provides 3D LiDAR scanning and mechanical engineering support in Henderson, Western Australia, helping businesses capture existing equipment, develop CAD models and plan modifications before fabrication begins.

Our approach connects site measurement with mechanical design. Whether you are replacing a pump skid, modifying workshop equipment or planning a new installation within an existing facility, we help turn site conditions into usable engineering information.

Scan → Model → Engineer → Upgrade

Supporting Henderson’s marine and industrial precinct

Henderson is home to the Australian Marine Complex, a major precinct supporting manufacturing, fabrication, assembly and maintenance for the marine, defence, energy and resources industries. These activities create a strong need for reliable information about existing equipment and installation spaces.

For businesses working in these environments, an equipment upgrade often involves more than designing a new component. The design must also consider surrounding pipework, access routes, maintenance space and connections to existing assets.

Older drawings may not reflect modifications made during years of operation. A bracket may have moved, a pipe route may have changed, or additional equipment may now occupy the intended installation area.

3D LiDAR scanning helps establish what exists before decisions are made about what comes next.

3D LiDAR scanning for existing facilities and equipment

Laser scanning captures visible surfaces as a three-dimensional point cloud. This provides a spatial reference that can be reviewed during layout planning, modelling and design.

For a Henderson project, the scanning scope could include:

Workshop interiors and machinery layouts.
Pump installations and mechanical equipment packages.
Existing pipework routes and connection areas.
Fabricated assemblies and equipment interfaces.
Platforms, access areas and maintenance clearances.
Machinery foundations and surrounding installation space.
Selected vessel machinery spaces, subject to access and project requirements.

The scan coverage is planned around the engineering task. A replacement equipment package may require detailed capture of a small installation area, while a workshop reconfiguration may require a broader record of the facility.

Capturing the relevant surroundings early helps identify constraints that could otherwise emerge during installation.

Mechanical engineering that uses the scan data

A point cloud becomes more useful when it informs a practical engineering decision.

Hamilton By Design combines LiDAR scanning with mechanical design, CAD modelling and drafting to support equipment modifications, brownfield upgrades and fabrication documentation.

For Henderson businesses, this approach can support:

Pump skid layouts and equipment integration.
Mechanical brackets, mounts and fabricated assemblies.
Conveyor and materials handling modifications.
Machine guarding and maintenance access improvements.
Replacement component modelling.
General arrangement and fabrication drawings.
Coordination of mechanical equipment with surrounding services.

The aim is to understand both the equipment and its working environment. A component may fit within the available footprint but still obstruct maintenance access, interfere with nearby pipework or be difficult to install.

Considering these issues during design gives the workshop and installation team clearer information before work begins.

Marine equipment upgrades and machinery space planning

Marine refits and equipment replacements can involve confined spaces, complex arrangements and limited installation access.

A new pump, auxiliary unit or mechanical package may need to fit around existing services while retaining access for operation and maintenance.

A scan-informed design review can help assess:

Available space around the proposed equipment.
Connections to existing mechanical systems.
Installation and removal routes.
Access to serviceable components.
Interference with surrounding equipment.
Areas requiring further inspection or measurement.

For example, replacing a pump package could involve scanning the existing installation, modelling the proposed equipment and reviewing the arrangement before preparing modification drawings.

The project scope should identify any vessel-specific design approvals or specialist reviews required.

Scan-to-CAD for fabrication and installation

Scan-to-CAD converts selected information from the point cloud into CAD geometry that can be used for design and documentation.

The level of modelling depends on the project. An equipment layout may need simplified representations of surrounding assets, while a replacement assembly may require detailed geometry at its connection points.

Potential deliverables include:

Existing-condition CAD models.
Proposed equipment layouts.
General arrangement drawings.
Mechanical fabrication drawings.
Installation interface details.
Point cloud datasets for coordination.
Updated drawings reflecting the agreed scope.

Agreeing the deliverables at the start helps ensure the model contains the information needed by the people designing, fabricating and installing the equipment.

Reverse engineering when drawings are missing

When an existing component has no reliable drawing, reverse engineering can help establish a basis for replacement or modification.

Typical applications include guards, brackets, covers, housings and fabricated mechanical assemblies.

The measurement method must suit the component. Terrestrial LiDAR is useful for larger equipment and its surroundings. Small features, machined fits and tight tolerances may require handheld metrology scanning, direct measurement or additional inspection.

A worn part also needs careful interpretation. Its current shape may differ from the intended design, so reproducing the measured geometry alone may reproduce wear or damage.

The objective is a usable replacement design supported by appropriate measurements.

Plan upgrades before the shutdown begins

For operating facilities, preparation can make a substantial difference to installation planning.

Capturing existing conditions before a shutdown allows the project team to review proposed layouts, identify uncertain interfaces and prepare drawings while the equipment remains available for inspection.

Useful questions include:

Can the new assembly reach its installation position?
Is there enough space for tools and fastening?
Can maintenance personnel access the equipment afterwards?
Are nearby services likely to interfere?
Which dimensions need direct verification before fabrication?

Scanning provides a record of accessible, visible surfaces. Hidden connections and obstructed areas should be identified so that additional checks can be planned.

Our project approach

1. Define the engineering task

We establish what is being changed, the required outputs and the critical interfaces.

2. Capture existing conditions

Site scanning and supplementary measurements are planned around access, visibility and the required accuracy.

3. Develop the model and design

Relevant existing geometry is modelled and used to develop the proposed mechanical arrangement.

4. Review the installation

The design is reviewed for fit, access, maintainability and coordination with surrounding equipment.

5. Prepare the agreed documentation

CAD files and drawings are issued to support the agreed fabrication, installation or planning scope.

Frequently asked questions

Can you scan a workshop before new machinery is installed?

Yes. Scanning can provide an existing-condition reference for assessing machinery layouts, service connections, access routes and maintenance space.

Can LiDAR data be used in SolidWorks or AutoCAD workflows?

Yes. Point cloud information can be used as a reference for developing CAD models and drawings. The required file formats and modelling scope should be agreed before work starts.

Do we need to stop operations for scanning?

This depends on the site. Some areas may be captured during normal operations, while moving equipment, restricted access or isolation requirements may require a planned shutdown or controlled access period.

Can scanning guarantee that a fabricated assembly will fit?

Fit depends on the complete measurement, design and fabrication process. Critical interfaces require appropriate verification, particularly where surfaces are hidden or tolerances are tight.

Can you provide mechanical design as well as scanning?

Yes. Hamilton By Design can combine scanning, CAD modelling, mechanical design and drafting within an agreed project scope.

What information should we provide for a quotation?

Provide the site location, photographs, available drawings, equipment details, proposed modifications, access requirements and required delivery date. Identify any critical dimensions or installation constraints.

Discuss your Henderson project

Planning a workshop upgrade, equipment replacement or mechanical modification in Henderson?

Hamilton By Design can help capture existing conditions and develop practical engineering information for your next stage of work.

Send us your photographs, drawings and project requirements to discuss 3D LiDAR scanning and mechanical engineering support in Henderson WA.

[Explore our Perth 3D scanning

3D LiDAR Scanning and Mechanical Engineering Henderson WA

Practical engineering for marine facilities, fabrication workshops and industrial plant

Scan → Model → Engineer → Upgrade

Supporting Henderson’s marine and industrial precinct

3D LiDAR scanning helps establish what exists before decisions are made about what comes next.

3D LiDAR scanning for existing facilities and equipment

Laser scanning captures visible surfaces as a three-dimensional point cloud. This provides a spatial reference that can be reviewed during layout planning, modelling and design.

For a Henderson project, the scanning scope could include:

Workshop interiors and machinery layouts.
Pump installations and mechanical equipment packages.
Existing pipework routes and connection areas.
Fabricated assemblies and equipment interfaces.
Platforms, access areas and maintenance clearances.
Machinery foundations and surrounding installation space.
Selected vessel machinery spaces, subject to access and project requirements.

Capturing the relevant surroundings early helps identify constraints that could otherwise emerge during installation.

Mechanical engineering that uses the scan data

A point cloud becomes more useful when it informs a practical engineering decision.

Hamilton By Design combines LiDAR scanning with mechanical design, CAD modelling and drafting to support equipment modifications, brownfield upgrades and fabrication documentation.

For Henderson businesses, this approach can support:

Pump skid layouts and equipment integration.
Mechanical brackets, mounts and fabricated assemblies.
Conveyor and materials handling modifications.
Machine guarding and maintenance access improvements.
Replacement component modelling.
General arrangement and fabrication drawings.
Coordination of mechanical equipment with surrounding services.

Considering these issues during design gives the workshop and installation team clearer information before work begins.

Marine equipment upgrades and machinery space planning

Marine refits and equipment replacements can involve confined spaces, complex arrangements and limited installation access.

A new pump, auxiliary unit or mechanical package may need to fit around existing services while retaining access for operation and maintenance.

A scan-informed design review can help assess:

Available space around the proposed equipment.
Connections to existing mechanical systems.
Installation and removal routes.
Access to serviceable components.
Interference with surrounding equipment.
Areas requiring further inspection or measurement.

For example, replacing a pump package could involve scanning the existing installation, modelling the proposed equipment and reviewing the arrangement before preparing modification drawings.

The project scope should identify any vessel-specific design approvals or specialist reviews required.

Scan-to-CAD for fabrication and installation

Scan-to-CAD converts selected information from the point cloud into CAD geometry that can be used for design and documentation.

Potential deliverables include:

Existing-condition CAD models.
Proposed equipment layouts.
General arrangement drawings.
Mechanical fabrication drawings.
Installation interface details.
Point cloud datasets for coordination.
Updated drawings reflecting the agreed scope.

Agreeing the deliverables at the start helps ensure the model contains the information needed by the people designing, fabricating and installing the equipment.

Reverse engineering when drawings are missing

When an existing component has no reliable drawing, reverse engineering can help establish a basis for replacement or modification.

Typical applications include guards, brackets, covers, housings and fabricated mechanical assemblies.

A worn part also needs careful interpretation. Its current shape may differ from the intended design, so reproducing the measured geometry alone may reproduce wear or damage.

The objective is a usable replacement design supported by appropriate measurements.

Plan upgrades before the shutdown begins

For operating facilities, preparation can make a substantial difference to installation planning.

Useful questions include:

Can the new assembly reach its installation position?
Is there enough space for tools and fastening?
Can maintenance personnel access the equipment afterwards?
Are nearby services likely to interfere?
Which dimensions need direct verification before fabrication?

Scanning provides a record of accessible, visible surfaces. Hidden connections and obstructed areas should be identified so that additional checks can be planned.

Our project approach

1. Define the engineering task

We establish what is being changed, the required outputs and the critical interfaces.

2. Capture existing conditions

Site scanning and supplementary measurements are planned around access, visibility and the required accuracy.

3. Develop the model and design

Relevant existing geometry is modelled and used to develop the proposed mechanical arrangement.

4. Review the installation

The design is reviewed for fit, access, maintainability and coordination with surrounding equipment.

5. Prepare the agreed documentation

CAD files and drawings are issued to support the agreed fabrication, installation or planning scope.

Frequently asked questions

Can you scan a workshop before new machinery is installed?

Yes. Scanning can provide an existing-condition reference for assessing machinery layouts, service connections, access routes and maintenance space.

Can LiDAR data be used in SolidWorks or AutoCAD workflows?

Yes. Point cloud information can be used as a reference for developing CAD models and drawings. The required file formats and modelling scope should be agreed before work starts.

Do we need to stop operations for scanning?

Can scanning guarantee that a fabricated assembly will fit?

Fit depends on the complete measurement, design and fabrication process. Critical interfaces require appropriate verification, particularly where surfaces are hidden or tolerances are tight.

Can you provide mechanical design as well as scanning?

Yes. Hamilton By Design can combine scanning, CAD modelling, mechanical design and drafting within an agreed project scope.

What information should we provide for a quotation?

Discuss your Henderson project

Planning a workshop upgrade, equipment replacement or mechanical modification in Henderson?

Hamilton By Design can help capture existing conditions and develop practical engineering information for your next stage of work.

Send us your photographs, drawings and project requirements to discuss 3D LiDAR scanning and mechanical engineering support in Henderson WA.

Contact Us – Talk To Us

Call Us
Now

E-Mail Us
Now

Role Owner arrange

Name

First

Last

Company / Organisation / Private Project

Your Role / Owner

Would you like us to arrange a phone consultation for you?

Phone

Address

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

City

State / Province / Region

Postal Code

Country

Comment or Message

Our clients:

Explore services supporting Henderson marine, fabrication and industrial projects, from existing-condition capture to CAD modelling and engineering documentation.

3D Scanning and Mechanical Engineering Kwinana

Explore scanning and engineering support for the nearby Kwinana industrial region. Capture existing plant geometry to inform equipment modifications and upgrade planning.

Explore Kwinana services →

3D LiDAR Scanning in Perth and Western Australia

Document accessible existing conditions using terrestrial LiDAR. Registered point clouds support layout review, design coordination and asset documentation.

Explore Perth LiDAR scanning →

Scan to CAD Perth

Convert captured site geometry into selected CAD models and drawings. Define the deliverables needed for design, modification and installation planning.

Explore Scan to CAD services →

Structural Drafting Perth

Explore drafting services for steelwork and industrial infrastructure. Clear drawings help communicate geometry, interfaces and fabrication requirements.

Explore Perth drafting services →

Shiploader 3D Scanning Perth

Capture existing shiploader and port infrastructure geometry. Scan data supports reviewing access, equipment interfaces and proposed modifications.

Explore shiploader scanning →

Reverse Engineering Industrial Equipment

Develop useful engineering information from existing equipment when drawings are incomplete or unavailable. Scanning supports geometry capture for replacement and modification projects.

Explore equipment reverse engineering →

SolidWorks Mechanical Design Services

Develop mechanical CAD models for equipment, assemblies and proposed upgrades. Modelling supports design review and preparation of agreed engineering documentation.

Explore SolidWorks design services →

Engineering and 3D Scanning Services Perth WA

Explore Hamilton By Design services across Perth and Western Australia, including support for Henderson, Kwinana and regional industrial projects.

Explore Perth engineering services →

10 October 202610 October 2026

Mechanical Engineering and 3D LiDAR Scanning Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Watercolour illustration of LiDAR scanning at a conceptual mining processing plant near Ulaanbaatar, with conveyors, access platforms and Hamilton By Design branding.

Blue line icon of a tripod-mounted LiDAR scanner surveying a mineral processing plant with a hopper, conveyors and transfer chute.

Mining plant upgrades need reliable information about existing equipment, practical maintenance access and a clear engineering scope. For project teams based in Ulaanbaatar—also known as Ulan Bator—Hamilton By Design offers mechanical engineering, 3D LiDAR scanning and design support for mining and industrial projects, with site mobilisation arranged to suit the project.

Our approach brings together existing-condition capture, CAD modelling and engineering documentation. This helps owners, maintenance teams and fabricators plan modifications around the plant that is actually installed.

From coal handling equipment at Baganuur to gold processing infrastructure in the Boroo–Ulaanbulag area, potential applications include conveyor upgrades, transfer chute modifications, maintenance platforms, walkways and working-at-height systems.

Mining Operations Around Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar provides a useful geographic focus for discussing nearby mining operations, although the mines are located in outlying districts and surrounding provinces.

Four confirmed operating mines relevant to this regional overview are:

Mine	Location relative to Ulaanbaatar	Commodity	Potential engineering focus
Baganuur Coal Mine	Approximately 130 km east, in the outlying Baganuur district	Thermal coal / lignite	Coal handling equipment, maintenance access and plant modifications
Boroo Gold Mine	Approximately 140 km northwest, in Selenge Province	Gold	Processing equipment layouts, access improvements and brownfield upgrades
Ulaanbulag Gold Mine	Approximately 19 km southeast of Boroo	Gold	Equipment interfaces and infrastructure associated with the shared processing operation
Shivee-Ovoo Coal Mine	Approximately 260 km southeast, in Govisümber Province	Thermal coal / lignite	Coal handling infrastructure, maintenance facilities and access upgrades

Baganuur and Shivee-Ovoo are operating coal mines. Boroo and Ulaanbulag are operating gold mines that share key infrastructure and processing facilities. These locations illustrate the regional mining context; they are not presented as Hamilton By Design clients.

Nalaikh is also associated with Ulaanbaatar’s mining history, but its main industrial coal mine is closed. Gatsuurt is a gold development project whose current production status has not been confirmed for this overview.

Mechanical Engineering for Mining Plant Upgrades

A successful plant modification starts with understanding the operational problem.

A conveyor transfer may need improved material flow. A pump installation may require more room for servicing. A replacement chute may need to fit between existing equipment while preserving access for liner changes.

Hamilton By Design’s mechanical engineering consulting services cover equipment design, CAD modelling, drafting and assessment for mining and industrial applications.

For projects coordinated from Ulaanbaatar, the scope can be developed around questions such as:

What equipment is being replaced or modified?
Which existing interfaces must be retained?
How will components be transported, lifted and installed?
What access will maintenance personnel need?
Which drawings and approvals are required before fabrication?

Resolving these questions early gives the project team a clearer basis for design, procurement and shutdown planning.

3D LiDAR Scanning Before Design Begins

Existing drawings are useful, but their relationship to current site conditions needs checking before a retrofit is designed.

A pipe installed during an earlier upgrade may cross the proposed platform location. A conveyor support may occupy the space needed for a new chute. Equipment removal may be restricted by steelwork that does not appear on the available drawings.

3D LiDAR scanning helps establish the spatial arrangement of visible plant and infrastructure.

The resulting point cloud can support layout development, equipment positioning and coordination between disciplines. Critical interfaces can then be selected for additional measurement or inspection where the project requires it.

Scanning is particularly useful when several modifications must fit within the same area. A shared model allows the team to review the proposed arrangement before committing to fabrication.

Hamilton By Design combines this measured information with mechanical design and scan-to-CAD workflows.

Platforms, Walkways, Stairways and Ladders

Maintenance access deserves attention at the start of a plant upgrade.

A new component may fit into the available space yet leave insufficient room for inspection, adjustment or removal. Access arrangements should therefore be developed around the tasks people will perform, rather than added after the equipment layout is complete.

For example, a chute upgrade may require a working position beside an inspection door. A conveyor drive replacement may need an access route that also accommodates handling tools and removed components.

Hamilton By Design’s guide to AS 1657 fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders explains the role of this Australian standard in industrial access design.

For a Mongolian project, the design basis should identify applicable local requirements, owner specifications and any contractually adopted standards. Where AS 1657 is proposed as a reference, its suitability and acceptance should be established with the project’s responsible advisers.

The objective is a coordinated arrangement that supports the intended maintenance task and can be reviewed, fabricated and installed with clear documentation.

Static Line Systems and Working-at-Height Access

Some inspection and maintenance tasks require a dedicated working-at-height solution.

Hamilton By Design’s static line installation and engineering certification service describes support for system layouts, supporting-structure assessment, installation documentation and engineering verification.

For projects around Ulaanbaatar, this work should be coordinated with the selected system supplier, installer and appropriately qualified engineering reviewers. The scope needs to address how the system connects to the existing asset and how the completed installation will be verified and handed over.

The required certification and local acceptance pathway should be agreed before procurement. This gives each participant a clear understanding of their responsibilities and the evidence required for completion.

Connecting Access Improvements with Equipment Design

Access and mechanical design often affect the same space.

Consider a proposed coal transfer upgrade. The project may need a revised chute, removable guarding and a working position for inspections. Designing each item separately can leave conflicts between access routes, maintenance openings and installation requirements.

A coordinated model allows the team to examine the complete arrangement:

Capture and verify the existing area.
Define operating and maintenance requirements.
Develop the equipment and access concepts together.
Review interfaces with the owner and installation team.
Prepare the agreed drawings and engineering documentation.

This approach can help identify problems while changes are still straightforward to make.

Deliverables Defined Around Your Project

A focused project may need only an equipment model and general arrangement drawing. A larger upgrade may require a coordinated package for fabrication, installation and review.

Depending on the agreed scope, deliverables may include:

Registered point cloud data.
Existing-condition CAD models.
Equipment and access layouts.
Mechanical detail drawings.
Fabrication information and material schedules.
Installation planning drawings.
Engineering assessment documentation.

The proposal should identify file formats, drawing status, verification requirements and responsibilities for review and approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Ulan Bator and Ulaanbaatar different locations?

No. They are names for the same city, Mongolia’s capital. This page uses Ulaanbaatar while also recognising the alternative spelling Ulan Bator.

Are all four active mines within the city?

No. Baganuur is in an outlying district administered by Ulaanbaatar. Boroo, Ulaanbulag and Shivee-Ovoo are in surrounding provinces, with Shivee-Ovoo substantially farther from the capital.

Can a project begin using existing drawings and scan data?

Yes. Available information can be reviewed first to establish its suitability and identify gaps. Site capture, inspections or additional measurements can then be included where needed.

Can platforms and walkways be included in an equipment upgrade?

Yes. Including maintenance access in the initial scope allows the proposed equipment and access arrangement to be reviewed together.

Can Australian standards be used for a Mongolian project?

They may be considered where the project adopts them, subject to applicable local requirements and acceptance. The standards and approval basis should be agreed at the start of the engagement.

How is site scanning arranged?

Mobilisation is planned around the location, access permissions, operating conditions and required deliverables. Clients can provide drawings, photographs and a scope description to begin the discussion.

Discuss Your Ulaanbaatar Mining or Industrial Project

Planning a mechanical upgrade, maintenance access improvement or static line project near Ulaanbaatar?

Contact Hamilton By Design with your site location, available drawings and project objectives. We can discuss a staged scope covering existing-condition capture, mechanical design, access layouts and engineering documentation.

Scan → Model → Engineer → Upgrade.

Contact Us – Talk To Us

Call Us
Now

E-Mail Us
Now

Name

First

Last

Company / Organisation / Private Project

Your Role / Owner

Would you like us to arrange a phone consultation for you?

Message like you?

Phone

Address

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

City

State / Province / Region

Postal Code

Country

Comment or Message

Our clients:

Mining Plant Upgrades

3D LiDAR Scanning for As-Built & Brownfield Engineering

Chute Design in the Mining Industry

Machine Guarding Design and Engineering Australia | Hamilton By Design

Related Mining and Mechanical Engineering Services

Explore Hamilton By Design services and technical articles relevant to mining, mineral processing and industrial upgrades around Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

Supporting Aluminium Smelter Upgrades at Tomago

Why 3D LiDAR Scanning Is Important for Aluminium Smelters

Fume Extraction and Ventilation System Modifications

Mechanical Equipment and Potline Infrastructure

Conveyor and Material Handling System Upgrades

Industrial Pipework and Service Modifications

Reducing Shutdown Fit-Up Risk with 3D Scanning

From 3D LiDAR Scanning to Engineering Drawings

3D Scanning and Mechanical Engineering Deliverables

Engineering Experience Beyond 3D Scanning

3D LiDAR Scanning Across Tomago, Newcastle and the Hunter Region

Frequently Asked Questions

Can 3D LiDAR scanning be completed in an operating aluminium smelter?

Can 3D scanning help with replacement ductwork?

Can point cloud data be used to develop fabrication drawings?

What accuracy can be expected from industrial 3D LiDAR scanning?

Can Hamilton By Design provide mechanical engineering as well as scanning?

Can 3D scanning reduce shutdown delays?

Discuss Your Tomago Aluminium Smelter Upgrade

Our clients:

Related 3D Scanning & Engineering Services

Aluminium Smelter Laser Scanning – Tomago NSW

Tomago Engineering & 3D Laser Scanning

Smelter 3D LiDAR Scanning – Newcastle NSW

Smelter Engineering & Scan-to-CAD – Newcastle

3D Laser Scanning – Newcastle NSW

Scan to BIM – Newcastle & Hunter Region

Surface Mine Scan-to-CAD – Hunter Valley NSW

3D Scanning – Port of Newcastle

Supporting Processing Plant Projects in the Cobar Region

Capture Existing Conditions Before Design

Chute Replacement and Conveyor Modifications

Pipework, Pumps and Equipment Fit-Up

From Point Clouds to Engineering Models and Drawings

Plan Fabrication and Shutdown Work Earlier

Discuss 3D LiDAR Scanning for Your Peak Mine Project

Our clients:

Related Engineering Services and Insights

Supporting Copper and Gold Processing Infrastructure

Capture Existing Conditions Before Design Begins

Chute and Conveyor Upgrade Planning

Pipework, Pumps and Equipment Fit-Up

From Point Cloud to Engineering Deliverables

Better Information for Shutdown Planning

Discuss Your Northparkes Scanning Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Our clients:

Related Engineering Services and Plant Upgrade Resources

Reduce Shutdown Upgrade Fit-Up Risk with 3D Laser Scanning for Your Coal Chute

Why Coal Chute Upgrades Need Reliable Site Information

Use 3D Scanning Before Finalising the Chute Design

Check Critical Interfaces Before Fabrication

Coal Chute Design Must Also Consider Material Flow

Design for Maintenance and Liner Replacement

Plan the Shutdown Around the Proposed Installation

From Site Capture to Coal Chute Fabrication Drawings

1. Define the Upgrade

2. Capture the Existing Plant

3. Develop the Chute Design

4. Review the Arrangement

5. Prepare the Documentation

Supporting Coal Chute Upgrades Across the Upper Hunter

Frequently Asked Questions

Can 3D scanning reduce coal chute fit-up risk?

Do we need scanning if we already have drawings?

Can you scan inside a coal chute?

Can the existing chute be reverse engineered?

When should the scan be completed?

Discuss Your Coal Chute Upgrade

Our clients:

Related Coal Chute Design & 3D Scanning Services

Coal Chute Design

CHPP Engineering & 3D Scanning

Coal Conveyor 3D Scanning Hunter Valley

Designing Chutes for Easy Maintenance

Chute Design for Mining

Conveyor Transfer Chute Design

Mine Transfer Station Scanning Muswellbrook

Engineer-Led Scan to CAD Singleton

Practical engineering for marine facilities, fabrication workshops and industrial plant