Case Study: Arrium Mining achieves extended Whyalla Steelworks life and higher production with Rockwell Automation

Project Magnet Extends the Life of Whyalla Steelworks

Arrium Mining faced the challenge of building a fully integrated control system across its pit-to-port operations at Whyalla Steelworks within a tight timeframe as part of Project Magnet. Working with Rockwell Automation and system integrator LogiCamms, the company needed a solution that would connect operations over a 60-kilometre distance while improving control, efficiency, and environmental performance.

Rockwell Automation implemented a redundant ControlLogix-based architecture with FactoryTalk View HMI/SCADA, intelligent motor control, and Guardmaster safety relays. The result was full automation and visibility across the plant, extending the life of Whyalla Steelworks from a 2020 constraint to at least 2027, increasing annual sales from 1 million to 6 million tonnes, and helping reduce fugitive dust emissions through the shift from a dry to a wet process.

Arrium Mining

Jonathan Deluao

Principal Control Systems/Maintenance Engineer