The Project

Avion power plant is a 97MW peaking power plant which started commercial operation in late 2016. The prime movers are 2 x LM6000PC Sprint gas turbines which have dual fuel capability to ensure continuity of power in case the natural gas supply is not available.

The power plant is designed for rapid start-up (15 minutes to full load) to provide support in case of a power shortage in the area and has inlet air chilling so that power output is maximised during hot weather.

Our Role

Avion power plant was originally an epc contract however at a late stage in construction the epc contract was terminated and First Gen elected to manage the remaining construction and commissioning works itself.

Thorndon Cook was requested to provide the lead mechanical engineer for the completion of the construction and this role was later expanded to include responsibility for managing commissioning.

The role was particularly challenging because of the need to redesign several key systems, including the liquid fuel forwarding system, which could not be commissioning until the design errors were corrected.

Site responsibilities included managing local staff, preparing commissioning procedures, as-built design and drawing changes, and ensuring work was carried out safely.

Thorndon Cook remained involved in the project through to final commissioning, testing and handover for commercial operation.

Results

The power plant achieved commercial handover in September 2016

Capabilities

Disciplines:
process design, mechanical engineering, control and instrumentation, project/program management

Roles:
detailed design, site construction supervision, commissioning and start-up

Resources:
planning and permit requirements, construction, commissioning and operation