In this article, you’ll explore the full breadth of Mipac Capabilities beyond the standard E, I & C services and how we empower mining operations and industrial projects to achieve optimised performance.
For the past 27 years, Mipac has been an engineering service firm delivering Electrical, Instrumentation and Control System (E, I &C) engineering to the mining industry. But did you know Mipac is more than a control system integrator with extensive mineral processing experience?
From designing plantwide control systems and delivering customised automation roadmaps to implementing cutting-edge digital tools and supporting operational modernisation, this article highlights 19 unique ways Mipac drives efficiency and innovation.
1. We support the Remote Execution of Complex Projects.
COVID changed the way engineering projects candeliver large-scale projects entirely remotely. For us success came with the design and supply a state-of-the-art copper refinery during COVID-19 travel restrictions. This included advanced automation for warehouse safety systems, crane operations, and remote field panels.
2. We design and commission Plantwide Control Systems
Designing, constructing, and commissioning an entire plantwide control system for a greenfield mineral processing operation requires a blend of technical expertise, strategic planning, and adaptability.
Our work with FQM Kansanshi, FQM Cobre Panama, and BHP West Musgrave demonstrates our capability to oversee large-scale control system projects from conception through implementation.
Our comprehensive approach to system design combines our process understanding, system architecture experience, and integration planning to ensure a fast, hassle-free startup.
3. We deliver Downtime Reporting with Existing Infrastructure
Using AVEVA PI infrastructure, Mipac implements RtDUET, downtime and overall equipment efficiency (OEE) tracking system. This cost-effective solution leverages existing data to improve asset utilisation and performance, helping plants optimise our operations with minimal additional investment.
For several years, we’ve aspired to introduce downtime and OEE tracking in MPA. Recently, repeated requests from our customers have driven us to prioritize this feature. As a result, we are excited to announce the development of the MPA Production Monitor application.
Our Software Development Team is diligently working on this new capability and anticipates delivering the first version by early 2025
4. We create Training and Knowledge Transfer through eLearning
Beyond traditional engineering services, Mipac offers eLearning solutions. These platforms help on-site teams develop expertise in operational technology and control systems, fostering long-term operational independence and skill building.
5 We develop bespoke Digital Tools for Operational Challenges
Mipac creates customised digital tools like the TCard task management system, designed specifically for operational environments. This tool streamlines task tracking and communication across teams, enabling improved efficiency and accountability in industrial settings.
6. We provide End-to-End Automation Contracting
Mipac operates as a Main Automation Contractor (MAC), managing the entire scope of automation projects. This includes system design, procurement, integration, and commissioning, ensuring a seamless transition from initial concept to full operation.
7. We designed a comprehensive Alarm Management Solution
Mipac offers an Alarm Manager software application product that helps operations teams reduce unnecessary nuisance alarms and prioritise critical alerts. This improves safety and efficiency by ensuring operators are not overwhelmed with irrelevant notifications during critical situations.
8. We create Customisable Data Visualisation for Operational Insights
Mipac’s capabilities extend to designing highly tailored PI Vision dashboards. These dashboards transform raw operational data into user-friendly visualisations, helping teams monitor KPIs like throughput, safety metrics, and equipment efficiency, all in real-time.
9. We implement Asset Management Systems
Mipac delivered an asset management system for Ok Tedi Mining in Papua New Guinea. This capability, reinforced by our strong philosophy on vendor neutrality, extended the digital solutions our teams are able to implement and integrate.
10. We discover Optimisation Opportunities and conduct Instrumentation Audits
Instrumentation sits at the heart of any effective control system. With growing awareness of the benefits of introducing APC, its more important than ever for your instruments and their reporting to be accurate and fully optimised. Mipac conducted an instrumentation audit for Mineral Resources at the Wodgina site in Western Australia. covering over 1800 instruments and providing updated red-lined P&IDs for the client to integrate into daily operations.
11. We work in the Energy Sector
Mipac integrated the control system for the APA Dugald River Solar Farm in Australia in partnership with Siemens. This unexpected capability reflects our growing involvement in the renewable energy sector.
12. We can Optimise Performance in Complex Operations
Mipac optimised the coal loadout facility at Whitehaven Coal’s Narrabri site using AVEVA Citect technology. This highlights our expertise in enhancing specific operational processes within larger systems.
13. We deliver Automation Roadmaps to Modernise Operations
We help clients navigate the complexities of operational modernisation by delivering tailored Automation Roadmaps that outline clear, actionable strategies to achieve greater efficiency, productivity, and workforce capability.
14. We have created Digital Logsheets
Mipac assisted Northern Star in digitalising their logsheets with MPA software. This initiative illustrates our ability to modernise and streamline data management processes, aligning with the industry’s shift toward digital transformation.
15. We solve Tankhouses Challenges with our own unique Instrumentation Solutions
Copper tankhouses are at the heart of copper production, but they come with their fair share of challenges. Keeping everything running smoothly, ensuring top-quality copper, and avoiding downtime can feel like a constant juggling act.
After years of working inside some the world’s largest tankhouse operations, Mipac has designed a range of hardware products to overcome the specific challenges faced in electrowinning and electrorefining tankhouses.
CellView®
ShortMeter®
Copper Monitor®
16. We are Vendor-Neutral
Mipac holds certifications with all leading control system and automation vendors, including Schneider Electric, Siemens, Yokogawa, Rockwell Automation, AVEVA, and Aspen Technology. This breadth of expertise allows us to provide unbiased solutions tailored to each client’s needs.
17. We have an In-house Team of Metallurgists
Mipac’s team of metallurgists supports all their projects, ensuring that solutions are grounded in the practical realities of mineral processing. This deep operational knowledge enhances our ability to design technologies that address specific challenges at every stage of processing.
18. We travel the Globe delivering Control Systems and Process Optimisation
While we have executed some of our largest projects remotely from our Australian and American offices, our engineering and optimisation team have notched up millions of travel miles. Right now, we currently have engineers on-site in remote operations in Africa, the US, Canada and Eastern Europe.
19. We offer Mining 4.0 Consulting for Digital Transformation
Beyond traditional engineering, Mipac offers consulting services to guide mining operations through the transition to Mining/Industry 4.0. This includes assessing digital maturity, recommending automation upgrades, and integrating IoT and AI-driven solutions into existing systems for long-term operational benefits.
And there is more ...
For over 27 years, Mipac has been a leader in delivering cutting-edge industrial automation, control systems, and process optimisation for the mining industry and beyond. With expertise spanning greenfield and brownfield projects, remote project execution, bespoke digital solutions, and Industry 4.0 consulting, we provide tailored strategies to maximise efficiency, enhance safety, and drive operational success.
Whether implementing advanced control systems or delivering training to upskill teams, Mipac is committed to ensuring optimised performance at every stage.
If your operation wants to achieve optimised performance in 2025, Mipac can help you meet your goals with tailored engineering solutions, advanced technologies, and unparalleled expertise.
Contact us today to discuss how we can help transform your operations.
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