NQ Water: Cobar Water Pumping Station Control System Upgrade

The Challenge

NQ Water needed to modernise control and telemetry systems across three pump stations (Nyngan Low Lift, Nyngan High Lift, and Hermidale) as part of the Nyngan to Cobar Pipeline Project Stage 1. The project required coordinated design, manufacturing, and commissioning of multiple electrical switchboards, SCADA integration, and RTU telemetry systems across geographically dispersed sites in regional NSW.

Our Approach

Deftec delivered a comprehensive three-milestone electrical and control systems solution, from detailed design through to site commissioning. We designed and manufactured main switchboards, motor control centres (MCCs), RTU and distribution panels, and programmed PLC and HMI systems to integrate with the existing Cobar telemetry infrastructure. Our scope included field testing, factory acceptance testing (FAT), pre-commissioning workshops, and full commissioning support across all three pump stations. We also coordinated closely with the design team on CHAZOP reviews, process and equipment functional design (PEFD) workshops, and provided comprehensive operations and maintenance documentation.

The Outcome

Deftec successfully delivered control system infrastructure that enables NQ Water to reliably monitor and automate operation of critical water supply pumping stations. The project demonstrates our capability to manage complex, multi-site industrial automation projects with demanding compliance and safety requirements typical of water utilities infrastructure.

Technologies and Capabilities

• SCADA & Telemetry: Elpro 415-E-C4 RTU, 4G modem configuration, integration with existing Cobar telemetry system
• PLC & HMI Programming: Allen-Bradley PLCs, Red Lion HMI development and configuration
• Switchboard Design & Manufacturing: Main switchboards, motor control centres, RTU panels, 24V distribution, light & power distribution panels
• Control Equipment: NHP/Terasaki breakers, Carlo Gavazzi monitoring relays, ELDv3 earth leakage protection, arc flash relays, Nemo96HD power meters
• Power Management: Eaton UPS systems with battery cabinets, ABB variable speed drives (VSDs)
• Electrical Infrastructure: High and low voltage cabling, VSD control cabling, instrumentation data cables
• Design & Documentation: Detailed electrical design, IO testing, commissioning documentation, O&M manuals
• Project Delivery: Multi-site coordination, CHAZOP and PEFD workshops, factory and site commissioning, comprehensive technical handover