Building Momentum on Mining Infrastructure Projects with 3D Scanning & SolidWorks Design

Mining infrastructure projects don’t fail because of ambition.
They stall because of uncertainty.

• Unclear existing conditions.
• Outdated drawings.
• Field changes not captured.
• Fabrication built to the wrong revision.
• Engineering decisions made on incomplete data.

If you want to build real momentum on a mining project — whether it’s a chute replacement, conveyor upgrade, pump skid, structural modification, or brownfield plant expansion — the first step isn’t modelling.

It’s truth.

At Hamilton By Design, we help mining operations build momentum from day one using engineering-grade 3D scanning and SolidWorks-based mechanical design workflows.

Below is how that momentum is created — and how it connects across our broader engineering services.

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Step 1: Capture Reality – Engineering-Grade 3D Laser Scanning

Before SolidWorks modelling begins, we establish the true geometry of your site.

Using LiDAR and metrology-grade handheld scanning, we capture high-resolution point cloud data of:

• Chutes and transfer stations

• Conveyor structures

• Pump skids

• Steel platforms and accessways

• Processing plant tie-ins

• Underground or confined infrastructure

This ensures design decisions are based on what actually exists, not what the drawings say exists.

Learn more about our scanning capability:
👉 https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/3d-laser-scanning/

For national capability and technical overview:
👉 https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/engineering-grade-3d-laser-scanning-australia/

For digital QA workflows and validation:
👉 https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/3d-lidar-scanning-digital-quality-assurance/

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Step 2: Convert Data into Engineering Geometry

Point clouds are data.
Engineering requires geometry.

We convert scan data into structured, parametric SolidWorks models that allow:

• Clash detection

• Retrofit validation

• Structural modification planning

• Maintenance access assessment

• Envelope clearance checks

• Pre-fabrication certainty

This is where momentum builds.

Instead of “we think it will fit,”
you move to “we know it fits.”

Explore our mechanical design services:
👉 https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/mechanical-engineering-consulting/mechanical-design/

Full mechanical engineering consulting capability:
👉 https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/mechanical-engineering-consulting/

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Step 3: Design for Mining Reality – Not Just CAD

Mining infrastructure is different.

Broken Hill, Mount Isa, Cobar, regional NSW — these are harsh operating environments with:

• Abrasive ore streams

• Constrained access

• High maintenance loads

• Legacy steelwork

• Structural fatigue

• Operational downtime pressure

Our mechanical design work in mining includes:

• Chute and transfer redesign

• Wear liner systems

• Conveyor structure modifications

• Pump skid integration

• Structural steel certification

• Crane runway inspections

• Plant tie-in modelling

For regionally focused mining mechanical design:
👉 https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/mechanical-design-consultants-broken-hill/

For mining-specific engineering services:
👉 https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/mining-engineering-services-australia/engineering-led-lidar-mechanical-design-broken-hill/

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Step 4: Build Maintenance into the Design

Momentum isn’t just about installation — it’s about lifecycle performance.

Too many mining projects deliver a new asset that becomes a maintenance headache.

At Hamilton By Design, we incorporate:

• Safe liner change access

• Scraper and wear component replacement zones

• Guarding removal allowances

• Tool clearance envelopes

• Lifting lug positioning

• Isolation planning

We design so your maintenance team can actually work on the asset.

If you’re upgrading chutes specifically:
👉 https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/designing-chutes-for-easy-maintenance-the-hamilton-by-design-approach/

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Step 5: Governance – Protecting Momentum

Nothing destroys momentum like:

• Fabrication to the wrong revision

• Uncontrolled drawing updates

• Unclear document ownership

• Poor digital traceability

We don’t just design.

We implement engineering governance.

Through structured CAD management and revision control systems, we ensure:

• Every issued drawing is traceable

• Revision history is controlled

• Clients have 24/7 access to their documentation

• Field changes are captured and managed

• ISO-aligned document control can be established

Learn more about our engineering governance approach:
👉 https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/engineering-governance-24-7-drawing-access-fea/

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Step 6: Integrating Scanning with SolidWorks FEA

Momentum means reducing risk early.

When we combine:

• 3D scanning

• Parametric modelling

• Finite Element Analysis

We can validate:

• Structural load paths

• Wear plate stress

• Crane runway modifications

• Pump skid dynamic loads

• Support frame adequacy

This allows engineering decisions to be made confidently before steel is cut.

You’re not reacting to site issues.
You’re preventing them.

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Brownfield Mining Projects: Where Momentum Matters Most

Greenfield projects have clean drawings.

Brownfield mining projects have surprises.

3D scanning + SolidWorks modelling allows:

• Accurate tie-ins to legacy structures

• Retrofit without rework

• Pre-fabrication off-site with confidence

• Reduced shutdown duration

• Fewer RFIs during installation

For operations across Australia needing scanning support:
👉 https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/3d-laser-scanning/

For Melbourne-based engineering support:
👉 https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/3d-scanning-melbourne-cbd/3d-engineering-in-melbourne/3d-scanning-services-in-melbourne/

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What Building Momentum Actually Looks Like

When momentum is working, you see:

• Faster approvals

• Clearer scope definition

• Fewer variations

• Confident procurement

• Reduced shutdown windows

• Safer installation

• Maintenance-ready assets

It starts with clarity.
It builds with engineering structure.
It accelerates with correct data.

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Why Mining Clients Choose Hamilton By Design

We combine:

• Site experience in heavy industry

• Engineering-grade scanning

• SolidWorks mechanical design

• Mining infrastructure familiarity

• Governance discipline

• Regional mining knowledge

We don’t just produce drawings.

We help mining infrastructure projects move from:

Uncertain → Verified
Reactive → Planned
Concept → Installed
Installed → Maintainable

And that is how momentum is built.

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Ready to Build Momentum on Your Mining Project?

If your project is stalled due to:

• Unclear geometry

• Legacy plant constraints

• Retrofit risk

• Documentation gaps

• Design uncertainty

Start with scanning.

Start with clarity.

Start with structured engineering.

Explore Hamilton By Design:
👉 https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/

Or contact us to discuss your mining infrastructure project and how 3D scanning and SolidWorks design can accelerate delivery.

How 3D Scanning Is Transforming Mining Infrastructure Design in SolidWorks

 Mining infrastructure is rarely simple. Conveyor systems, chutes, hoppers, transfer stations, platforms, and structural steel are often installed over decades — modified repeatedly and rarely documented accurately. For engineers working in SolidWorks, poor as-built information has long been a major source of risk.

This is where engineering-led 3D laser scanning is reshaping how mining infrastructure is designed, verified, and upgraded.

At Hamilton By Design, 3D scanning is used as the foundation for SolidWorks-based mechanical and structural design, ensuring models reflect real site conditions — not assumptions.

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Accurate As-Built Data for Mining Environments

Mining sites present unique challenges:

• tight shutdown windows

• live plant constraints

• legacy infrastructure with missing drawings

• high consequence of clashes or misalignment

Hamilton By Design uses high-accuracy 3D laser scanning to capture true as-built geometry, providing engineers with reliable data before design begins.

👉 Learn more about engineering-led 3D scanning services:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/3d-scanning-sydney/

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From Point Cloud to SolidWorks Design

Once site data is captured, point clouds are processed and interpreted by engineers — not just converted into geometry. This allows SolidWorks models to be built with:

• correct interfaces

• realistic tolerances

• verified equipment locations

• confidence in fit-up and constructability

This workflow is especially valuable for mining infrastructure upgrades and brownfield modifications, where accuracy directly affects fabrication and installation success.

👉 Explore Hamilton By Design’s broader engineering workflow:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-services/

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Supporting Conveyor Systems, Chutes & Transfer Stations

Conveyors, chutes, and transfer stations are central to mining operations — and also among the most failure-prone assets when poorly designed or modified.

By combining 3D scanning with SolidWorks modelling, Hamilton By Design helps engineers:

• redesign transfer points

• optimise chute geometry

• verify clearances and maintenance access

• reduce wear, spillage, and downtime

👉 See bulk material handling and conveyor engineering capability:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/bulk-material-handling-mining-rom-conveyors/

👉 Learn more about chute and transfer design in mining:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/chute-design-for-mining/

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SolidWorks Design for Fabrication & Installation

Mining infrastructure designs often progress straight from SolidWorks into fabrication. If site data is wrong, steel and mechanical assemblies won’t fit — leading to rework and delays.

Hamilton By Design’s approach ensures SolidWorks models are:

• built from verified as-built conditions

• coordinated across mechanical and structural elements

• suitable for fabrication detailing and installation

👉 Learn about mechanical engineering and design support:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/mechanical-engineering/

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Engineering Support Across Mining Regions

Mining projects rarely sit in metropolitan centres. Hamilton By Design supports mining infrastructure projects across Australia, delivering scanning, SolidWorks design, and engineering support where accuracy matters most.

👉 Explore engineering support for mining and industrial projects nationwide:
https://www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au/home/engineering-across-australia/

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Final Thoughts

For mining infrastructure, 3D scanning is no longer a “nice to have” — it’s a risk-reduction tool. When combined with SolidWorks and led by experienced engineers, scanning enables safer upgrades, faster fabrication, and fewer surprises on site.

By grounding SolidWorks design in real-world geometry, Hamilton By Design helps mining operators, engineers, and fabricators deliver infrastructure that fits, functions, and performs as intended.

Structural Detailing: Structural Design

Structural Detailing: Structural Design:  Over the past two months Hamilton By Design have been test driving Buildworks 2012 a Solidworks add in, after extensive testing the team at...

Drafting For Mining Industry

Drafting For Mining Industry

Hamilton By Design offer 1st Class Quality

 when it comes to Structural and Mechanical Drafting

 for the mining Industry

www.hamiltonbydesign.com

Structural Mechanical Drafting for Mining Industry

 

Structural Mechanical Drafting

The team at Hamilton By Design has extensive experience in terms of design and detailing of Industrial Process and Mining industries. Over the past 20+ years we have been engage to design and develop and or upgrade projects and process for Mining on both fixed plant and mobile plant, Steel making process, Explosive manufacturing.

Our 3D parametric modelling capabilities are second to none combined with our extensive manufacturing know how in terms of both fabrication and machining, thus ensuring our design go together first time every time.

All of our projects are drawn using the latest 3D modelling software, which is ideal for complex structures and designs or detailed drawing production. Using the latest software also enables custom tailoring of any required reporting, cutting part lists, assembly part lists, cutting profiles or materials billing, as required by the project.

 

Hamilton By Design offer complete drafting service in terms of both Structural Drafting and Mechanical Drafting.

Drafting for Mining Industry

Some of past Projects have included:

• Surface Handling Systems
• Stacking and Reclaim Systems
• Transfer stations
• Media Drums
• Thickener Tanks
• Conveyors
• Pulleys
• Head Chutes
• Hoppers
• Hood And Spoons
• Platforms
• Stairways and ladders
• Elevated platforms
• Pump Skids
• Shipping container processing Plants
• Fluid Delivery systems
• Vessels and furnace
• Crabs
• Safety Equipment

For more information contact www.hamiltonbydesign.com

Structural Drafting  | Mechanical Drafting  |  SolidWorks Contractors  |  Shop floor Drawings

Design & Drafting Service For the Mining Industry

Hamilton By Design offer a complete Design & Drafting service, we can take your ideas from concept to completion.

We offer complete detailing services for mechanical components used in the materials handling & mining industries.

Many of our Past Projects associated with the mining industry have included:

• Special Purpose Mechanical
• Bulk Material Handling Systems
• Pipework and Fluid Flow systems
• Trolleys
• Shuttles
• Pressure Vessels
• Bearings
• Conveyors
• Chutes
• Take-up Boxes
• Ploughs
• Shedder Plates
• Hoppers
• Screens
• Crushers
• Hoppers
• Launders
• Bins
• Tanks
• Stackers
• Reclaimers

Mining Infrastructure Drafting Services

Shop Floor drafting is a design vertical that today allows for enhanced predictability, superior precision and finer design quality. In terms of Infrastructure Drafting through Solid modelling parametric technology. Hamilton By Design offers a comprehensive range of services for metal fabrication shop floor, for residential, commercial, and industrial structures.

Our dedicated team constantly provides virtually verifiable models that are derived from an object orientated data base which showcases the fabrication and erection process in the fourth dimension if necessary.

Our detailed mining infrastructure drafting services include:

• Detailed Assemblies where appropriate
• Fully detailed columns and connections including base plate details
• Connection Details - Welded, Riveted or Bolted for special moment resisting or ordinary moment resisting frames
• Steel member Detail Drawings - for columns, beams and bracings with location of bolt holes and connecting members
• Steel Trusses member and connection details
• Field and Shop Bolt Summary

Hamilton By Design has committed to it clients, employees and suppliers to utilise the latest technology in terms of parametric modelling systems in which our Shop floor fabrication detailed drawings are derived.

This technology has created a single data base simplifies communication and get everyone on the same page, with regard to CNC tool path data, cut lengths, bills of materials along with BIM information. This process management leads to a more fruitful professional relationship where the needs and requirements of clients are successfully met.

For more information on Mining Infrastructure Drafting Services contact Hamilton By Design

www.hamiltonbydesign.com

Design Drafting Service

Hamilton By Design offer a first class

 Design Drafting Service for shop drawings that go together first time everytime

Solidworks Weld Bead

www.hamiltonbydesign.com

Aussie miners to smash overseas competitors | Mining Australia

Aussie miners to smash overseas competitors | Mining Australia

FIFO workers believe bosses don’t care

IFO workers say their employers do not care about their wellbeing and most do not feel valued for the work they do, a new survey has found.

Libby Brook, of Murdoch University's school of psychology, said a survey of 223 FIFO workers found most feel their needs not are not being met, while many believe their companies are not doing enough to support them, The West Australian reported.

 

The survey is part of ongoing research at Murdoch University into the possible health affects of working in the mining industry.

Murdoch University's Graeme Ditchburn said the survey results show that employee support was important when it comes to job satisfaction.

"From an organisational perspective, companies need to be looking at how they can empower managers and supervisors to support their employees more efficiently and effectively," he said.

Another survey of FIFO workers and their partners showed that less than 50 per cent were aware of the resources and support available to employees in the industry.

"A number of companies have made major efforts to improve their support for FIFOs but our study shows more needs to be done to inform workers of what is available," Brook said.

A survey by Australian Coal and Energy conducted earlier this year by researchers at Griffith University highlighted the mixed experiences of workers in the sector.

It found unpredictable shift work rosters in the industry are having physical and psychological effects on workers and their families.

According to the research 61 per cent of mine and energy workers had no say in how many hours they worked a week, 70 per cent had no say in their types of shifts, 74 per cent had no say in which shifts they worked on particular days, and 79 per cent had no say in start and finishing times.

Professor David Peetz from Griffith University’s Centre for Work, Organisation and Wellbeing said lack of control over work hours is being attributed to increasing levels of depression among shift workers and resulting in an increased use of a variety of prescription drugs.

“The respondents showed sleeping difficulties. And when you had lack of control combined with wanting to work fewer hours, it not only made mining and energy workers more likely to feel unsafe, it also had negative health effects, including on psychological health,” Peetz said

“The lack of say was having a flow-on effect.  Their partners often confirmed that their spouses were indeed too tired or emotionally drained to function properly and that it affected them.  Mining and energy workers and their partners were less satisfied with their free time or with how much they felt part of their community than were the broader Australian population,” Peetz said.

 

Australian Mining reported on mine site health earlier this year, stressing an alternative after it was found behind the tough exteriors many workers engaged in the mining industry in Australia experienced stress, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, feelings of anxiety, loneliness and depression.

Rio South of Embley Bauxite Mine

Rio Tinto Alcan announced it expects to spend $528 million over the next three years developing is new South of Embley bauxite mine, located near Weipa in Queensland’s Far North.

The project’s developers have commenced meetings to discuss the provision of goods and services for the mine’s construction which is scheduled to begin next year, pending environmental and company approvals, Cairns.com.au reported.

Project director Laurie Hicks said recruitment and materials supply was currently being considered in Cairns, however preferential treatment for local suppliers would not be given.

“Where several options exist, a bid process will be adopted which may include other local, regional, Australian or offshore suppliers," he said.

"While there will be no preferential treatment, options that promote local content, shorten supply chains, offer indigenous employment and deliver value to the project will be due consideration."

Employing about 950 people, the construction phase will include the building of two beneficiation plants which separate bauxite from waste materials, a diesel-fuelled power station, warehouse, offices, sewage treatment plant, two ferry and barge terminals, a roll-on/roll-off barge facility, temporary accommodation for 2000 people, a water supply dam and a new shiploading and tug-mooring port.

Construction is estimated to take between 2.5 and 3 years with 24 hour bauxite production predicted to begin in the first half of 2016.

Hicks said Far North Queensland "will be the focus of the project's labour recruiting activities”, and that the feasibility of Cairns as a fly-in/fly-out hub and project support centre will be assessed.

Advance Cairns CEO Stewart Christie said the group had been working with Cairns FIFO co-ordinator Jeremy Blockey to actively engage Rio Tinto Alcan to recruit personnel from the Far North of the state.

"We are very hopeful that both Rio Tinto Alcan and Bechtel will hire contractors, personnel and use suppliers from this region for the construction and ongoing operations of this project as the project evolves," he said.

The operation aims to extend current Weipa mining operations for another 40 years.

Mining Drafting Services

Hamilton By Design offer a Professional service with the highest Quality Drafting service

Our team have been offering Computer Aided Design and Drafting Services to the mining industry for the past 20 years providing quality service that is cost effective for  design and documentation.

We have extensive experience in the mining industry experience in providing Strucutal, mechanical and pipework design and drafting documentation. Our team will be your project on track our services include:

• ·         3D modeling
• ·         Structural Drafting
• ·         MechanicalDrafting
• ·         Site services layout documentation
• ·         Saftey Studies
• ·         Machine Gaurding
• ·         Materials handling
• ·         Product design
• ·         Drawing conversions
• ·         Document scanning and vectorization

For more information Contact www.hamiltonbydesign.com today