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APAC replaced a 15-year-old rooftop HVAC unit at Olympic Dam, improving efficiency, reducing noise and minimising downtime.
At BHP's Olympic Dam operation in South Australia, reliable HVAC performance is essential to supporting day-to-day mining activities in one of Australia's most demanding industrial environments. After more than 15 years of dependable service, an existing APAC rooftop package unit reached the end of its operational life, creating an opportunity to upgrade to a modern, high-efficiency replacement with minimal disruption to site operations.
Background
Olympic Dam is one of Australia's largest mining and processing operations, operating around the clock in a challenging environment characterised by extreme temperatures, dust and demanding operating conditions. HVAC systems play a critical role in maintaining comfortable and productive indoor environments while supporting the site's essential infrastructure.
Having delivered more than a decade of reliable performance, the site's existing APAC rooftop package unit had proven its durability in harsh mining conditions. When the time came for replacement, Olympic Dam required a solution that would preserve continuity of operations while delivering the benefits of modern HVAC technology.
Challenge
In a busy mining operation, downtime can be costly and disruptive. The replacement project needed to be completed quickly and efficiently, with minimal interruption to building occupants and site activities.
The new unit also needed to integrate seamlessly with the existing infrastructure. Modifications to ductwork, electrical services, roof penetrations or condensate drainage systems would increase installation complexity, project costs and the overall time required to complete the upgrade.
The objective was clear: replace the ageing equipment with a modern HVAC solution while keeping downtime, costs and site disruption to a minimum.
Solution
APAC supplied a locally manufactured P085 Rooftop Package Unit specifically selected as a direct replacement for the existing system.
Designed to match the original installation footprint, the new unit aligned perfectly with the existing supply air, return air, electrical and condensate connections. This direct replacement approach eliminated the need for costly structural or services modifications and significantly reduced installation time.
The streamlined changeover process enabled the old unit to be removed and the new APAC P085 installed quickly and efficiently, minimising operational disruption and allowing the facility to return to normal operation with minimal downtime.
Beyond simplifying installation, the new system delivers enhanced performance and energy efficiency compared to the previous unit. Occupants also benefit from reduced operating noise levels, while the site gains the advantages of lower running costs and improved long-term reliability.
Results
Seamless replacement of an existing APAC rooftop package unit after more than 15 years of service.
Direct replacement design matched existing supply, return, electrical and condensate connections.
Fast installation with minimal disruption to site operations.
Improved system performance and energy efficiency.
Lower operating costs and reduced noise levels.
Robust, heavy-duty construction suited to harsh mining conditions.
Continued reliability from a locally manufactured APAC solution.
Outcome
By selecting a direct replacement APAC P085 Rooftop Package Unit, Olympic Dam was able to modernise its HVAC infrastructure quickly and cost-effectively while minimising operational disruption.
The new system delivers improved efficiency, quieter operation and dependable long-term performance, ensuring the facility remains equipped to meet the demands of a challenging mining environment for years to come.
– APAC is Rinnai Australia’s commercial HVAC brand.