Cape Lambert Reclaimer 12 Bucket Wheel Change Out

Client Rio Tinto

Service  Specialised Services

Location Western Australia

Market

Mining & Industrial

Commodity Iron Ore

Overview

As a critical link between the Cape Lambert stockyard and shiploading circuit, Reclaimer 12 required a major upgrade after the bucket wheel and ring chute assemblies reached end-of-life condition. Linkforce delivered the replacement of the bucket wheel assembly, a redesigned ring chute and associated structural works to restore asset reliability and maintain port performance. Executed within a high-value shutdown environment, the project required specialist balanced machine expertise, detailed planning and agile execution to manage evolving site conditions.

Service Delivery Area 

• Balance Machinery

• Mechanical & Structural

• Fabrication

• Access Solutions

• Transport & Logistics

Value Added 

• Experienced project team with extensive balanced machine and shutdown execution expertise

• Specialist planning and methodology development completed ahead of the shutdown window to support safe and efficient execution

• Agile execution approach that successfully managed alignment issues and previously unidentified structural damage discovered during construction

• Dedicated scaffold design capability supporting safe and efficient access throughout the works

• Established supplier relationships providing access to specialised lifting equipment and crane resources

• Certified management systems aligned with ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 standards

Outcome 

Linkforce successfully replaced the bucket wheel assembly, including a new shaft, bearings, redesigned ring chute, 13 buckets, drive components, skirts and liners. Supported by survey verification, NDT inspections, structural remediation and mechanical, electrical and control system commissioning, the upgraded asset was returned to service following successful no-load and load testing. Despite alignment challenges and the discovery of previously inaccessible structural deterioration, the works were completed on schedule, improving the reliability, maintainability and long-term performance of a critical stockyard reclaimer.