Metropolitan Electrical Contractors

Lamb Weston
HOP | Multi-stage Install

One of the largest frozen potato companies in the world, with more than 7,000 employees globally

Lamb Weston is a FMCG leader that supplies frozen potato, sweet potato, appetiser and vegetable products to restaurants and retailers worldwide.

Project scope of works:
  • Installation of three motor control centres (MCC)
  • Disconnection and removal of redundant cabling
  • Installation of six human-machine interfaces
  • Installation of over 25,000m of motor and control cabling
  • Testing and commissioning
$1mil
Value
5 mos.
Duration
Victoria
Location
Complete
Status
Project overview
Lamb Weston, a global leader in food manufacturing, recognised the need to increase its production rate to meet growing demand. To achieve this, they decided to replace several "bottlenecks" with new equipment and centralise control of their production line, streamlining the manufacturing process and enhancing overall efficiency.

GPS was contracted to handle the electrical aspects of this ambitious project, which included the installation of three motor control centres (MCCs) and over 25,000 meters of motor and control cabling. The scope of work also involved disconnecting and removing redundant cabling from existing production facilities, installing six human-machine interfaces (HMIs) to improve operator control, and testing and commissioning the new systems to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance.

Key challenges
This project presented several challenges that demanded meticulous planning, coordination, and adaptability. One of the primary obstacles was the tight timelines for completion, which required the efficient allocation of resources and a well-coordinated schedule. Furthermore, shipping delays on imported equipment added pressure to the already demanding timeframe, as the team had to work quickly to incorporate the new components once they arrived.

Additionally, the project required work to be carried out synchronously across multiple plant shutdowns and restarts to ensure optimal production.

  • The South plant had a two-week shutdown in November 2022. GPS installed new cable trays and cabling during that period to ensure immediate production recommencement.
  • Once completed, GPSs teams commenced works to support the installation of a new raw receivables plant at the North Facilities. Including a new MCC and wiring to motors and field devices, GPS electrical completed the stage in as little as four weeks.
  • Concurrently with the raw receivables plant, the North Main Production area was shut down, with all redundant cabling removed and a new MCC and cabling installed, taking five weeks to complete.
Project outcomes
Despite the challenges faced throughout the project, GPS Electrical successfully completed the work within the established deadlines and scope while maintaining strict safety protocols. Our commitment to safety ensured the well-being of both personnel and equipment throughout the project.

The installation of the new equipment and the centralized control of the production line led to a significant increase in Lamb Weston's production rate, further supporting the company's business objectives and contributing to its continued growth in the competitive food manufacturing industry.

GPS Electrical's expertise, careful planning, and efficient execution ensured that the project was completed safely and effectively, meeting Lamb Weston's needs and exceeding their expectations.

Our ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver high-quality outcomes has solidified our reputation as a reliable and capable partner for projects of all sizes and scopes.