PT Vale Indonesia, a leading low-carbon nickel miner, understands the importance of a reliable power source for uninterrupted operations. To maintain seamless processes at their processing plant, PT Vale sought an innovative solution to address the challenge of fault detection in their 11kV and 33kV overhead line power distribution systems.
The Challenge
Temporary Disruptions: Fault locations were unknown, making analysis and troubleshooting time-consuming.
Permanent Disruptions: Locating faults took significant time—between 3 to 8 hours—especially under adverse conditions, such as nighttime or rain.
The Solution
PT Vale implemented Safegrid’s Intelligent Grid System® by strategically installing sensors in its 11kV and 33kV overhead line distribution systems. Within just one month, the system delivered outstanding results.
Measurable Results
- Early Detection: Safegrid successfully identified critical short-circuit faults and pinpointed their exact locations within one minute.
- Fast Response: PT Vale’s maintenance team acted immediately on Safegrid’s reports, significantly reducing downtime.
- Cost Optimization: The team is adapting to this technology, which is projected to reduce maintenance costs by 30%-80% through optimized resource allocation, such as manpower and vehicle fuel.
Safegrid’s insights provide a clear roadmap for installations ensuring precision and efficiency in future investments.
Conclusion
Inspired by the impressive results, PT Vale plans to expand the use of Safegrid’s technology by deploying sensors on additional feeders and exploring Safegrid’s Smart Fault Prediction™ capabilities to further enhance reliability.
These forward-thinking strategies aim to reduce downtime, optimize operational costs, and improve grid reliability.
PT Vale’s experience highlights the transformative impact of Safegrid’s solution on industrial operations. By enabling early detection and rapid response to power grid issues, Safegrid not only minimizes downtime but also significantly reduces operational costs.
