Project Summary

Synertec’s client operates a propellant and explosives manufacturing facility in NSW Australia. This facility is the largest producer of explosives and propellants for the Australian Defence Force. Synertec has undertaken the engineering design for a number of key upgrade projects in recent years, including a large liquid ammonia storage facility.

Anhydrous ammonia is used as a feed stock for explosive manufacture. The client requirements were for a replacement of an existing ammonia storage facility with a new ammonia storage facility with increased storage volumes and compliance with the latest standards and regulations.

The Challenges

The site is a Major Hazard Facility, with all projects needing to consider risk reduction and management from inception. 

Anhydrous ammonia is a toxic and flammable compound which is stored as a compressed liquefied gas. Ammonia can reach temperatures as low -33°C, therefore the selection of suitable materials and instrumentation was crucial. The equipment selection and process design had to be suitable for large pressure fluctuation between winter and summer months.  

Synertec’s Scope

Synertec Process, Mechanical and Electrical engineers worked closely with the client’s project teams to develop the new storage facility locations and layouts, and to define the required capacity and functionality. Synertec then completed detail design including:

• IFC Design of the new anhydrous ammonia storage facility compliant to AS 2022
• P&ID development
• Process/Functional Description
• Functional Specification
• HAZOP facilitation
• Fire Study scope of works
• Dispersion study scope of works
• Demolition scope of works
• Piping, valving and instrumentation specifications
• Pressure Vessel, pump and compressor specification
• Geotechnical and contamination studies
• Emergency Shutdown Design