Kola MMC (a subsidiary of Norilsk Nickel) has pioneered surface laser scanning of the facility under construction. The company uses the latest 3D modelling technologies to implement the largest environmental investment project in the Murmansk region, “Recycling of Salt Effluents from Nickel Refining”. This project involves the construction of the most advanced evaporation plant for salt effluents, which is the liquid waste generated as a result of using chemicals to produce electrolytic nickel, with subsequent drying and packaging.
Surface laser scanning is the promptest and highly efficient approach used to receive the comprehensive and accurate spatial data on facilities under construction.
“Following the survey results, Kola will obtain a 3D model of the facility under construction, – said Igor Lisitskiy, project office director of Kola. – Availability of the 3D model will allow the company avoiding potential engineering faults in the course of installation of technological systems, equipment, and utility lines”.
The 3D model and reference design comparison will ensure this fault avoidance. When the project is completed, the 3D model will undergo supplementing with engineering data for each of its elements (equipment, pipelines and cable lines), thus acquiring features of an “operational” model.
In the future, the company will use the model to train staff, keep records for the processing equipment, and schedule repairs and maintenance. Furthermore, subsequent laser scanning will ensure that the computer model will also embrace alterations of salt effluents evaporation plant, occurred during overhauls and revamping.
Kola also plans to apply 3D modelling technologies for implementation of other investment projects, including such a major project as “Nickel Electrowinning from Solutions after Chlorine Dissolution of Nickel Powder”. (Norilsk Nickel/Ukrainian metal)