Geothermal Steam supply line
The Scope
A Kawerau-based geothermal energy company engaged Hutec to fabricate and install a new steam power pipeline. Having worked with Hutec previously, the client knew they could rely on our engineering expertise, fabrication capability and proven approach to deliver the project safely and efficiently.
Our Solution
Hutec partnered with the client to fabricate and install more than 1.5 km of 900 mm steam pipeline. Each 12-metre section weighed approximately 3.5 tonnes, requiring careful logistics and coordination across multiple road crossings and a state highway.
The riverside location added further complexity, with erosion considerations and the need to safely operate heavy machinery around waterways. Hutec developed the installation methodology to manage these challenges while maintaining a strong focus on quality, safety and environmental requirements.
To improve efficiency and reduce installation time and cost, Hutec prefabricated anchor sections in our workshop and transported large
pre-spooled pipe sections to site for installation.
Quality assurance was critical given the high temperatures and pressures the pipeline would operate under. The completed pipeline was pressure tested with more than one million litres of water, successfully passing the test with no leaks identified.
