Project Overview
Industry: Renewable Energy
Location: NSW
Duration: 10 days
Types of Laser Used: 2 x 1000W Jango
Summary: Precision Laser Cleaning (PLC) was engaged to perform Pulsed Laser Ablation (PLA) at a major hydroelectric power station in the Snowy Mountains Scheme, targeting lead-based paint and hexavalent chromium on stator frames during a scheduled shutdown. The Snowy Mountains Scheme is recognised as one of the civil engineering wonders of the world and supplies one-third of renewable energy to the Australian Electricity Market.The power station has undergone major refurbishment to extend generator lifespan by 15 years.
As a critical asset in Australia’s renewable energy infrastructure, maintenance requires safe, efficient, and compliant cleaning solutions to meet tight shutdown timelines.
Precision laser cleanings methodology provides a structured framework for the removal of hazardous coatings using PLA technology, aligning with AMPP SP21511-1-2024 standards and applicable WorkSafe legislation. It defines responsibilities, protective measures, and procedural steps to ensure safety, compliance, and high-quality surface preparation.
PLC deployed engineered direct extraction systems designed to capture hazardous particulates at the source of laser ablation, preventing airborne dispersion. These controls were validated through detailed air monitoring and exposure assessment programs conducted by independent occupational hygienists, confirming that all works were performed within Safework Australia exposure limits for lead and hexavalent chromium.
Following the successful delivery, PLC continues to provide ongoing laser cleaning services for lead and hexavalent chromium, ensuring consistent compliance, operational efficiency, and the safe continuation of refurbishment works for our team and assets.
)
){kind=spacer}
The Challenges
Hazardous materials complexity: The project involved both lead-based paint and hexavalent chromium, requiring careful handling to meet strict Safework Australia exposure limits.
High-value, sensitive infrastructure: Stator frames and generator turbines are delicate and expensive, meaning traditional cleaning methods risked damaging critical equipment.
Time-critical shutdowns: All works needed to be completed within scheduled outages, so delays could directly impact operational efficiency and refurbishment timelines.
Regulatory compliance: The project demanded full adherence to safety and environmental legislation, adding complexity to planning and execution.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) management: Strict procedures for donning and doffing PPE were essential to protect personnel from hazardous materials and prevent contamination of clean areas.
Environmental responsibility: Hazardous dust and waste had to be captured and disposed of safely.
Technology adoption challenge: Introducing Pulsed Laser Ablation (PLA) on a live industrial site required careful methodology, risk assessment, and coordination with other contractors.
Ongoing operational continuity: The cleaning solution needed to ensure simultanious operations could continue unhindered, while maintaining safety and compliance for all personnel involved.
The Solution
Purpose-Built Laser Systems: PLC deployed our Netalux 1000 watt Jango with its 50m fibre cable, delivering precise laser cleaning capable of safely removing hazardous coatings without damaging underlying surfaces. Our lasers were able to be station outside the stator frames and reach in without needing a solution that would fit the man hole.
Donning and Doffing Zones: Dedicated PPE donning and doffing stations ensured personnel could safely enter and exit contaminated areas, preventing cross-contamination and maintaining clean work environments.
Inline HEPA Extraction and Hazardous Waste Management: Point-of-ablation HEPA filtration captured laser-generated particulates in real time. All waste was safely contained and removed through controlled hazardous waste streams, protecting both personnel and the environment.
Pre- and Post-Exposure Testing: Surface swabs, airborne sampling, and blood biomonitoring of team members verified that exposure remained well below Safework Australia limits, ensuring compliance and safety.
Gas Monitoring: Continuous multi-gas monitoring provided real-time detection of airborne contaminants, offering an additional layer of protection for the operational team.
Sustainable Maintenance Practices: PLC’s laser cleaning approach provided an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional paint removal methods, reducing hazardous chemical use and minimising waste.
)
)
)
The Results
PLC’s laser cleaning solution enabled the safe, controlled removal of hazardous coatings within a live operational environment, without generating dust or disrupting adjacent works.
By delivering PLA-TA Thorough Ablation in accordance with AMPP SP21511-1:2024, surfaces were left clean and inspection-ready, significantly improving defect visibility for NDT activities.
The process provided a precise and contained method for removing lead and hexavalent chromium coatings, with exposure monitoring confirming all works were completed within acceptable limits and without incident.
This project reinforces laser cleaning as a highly controlled, low-disruption solution for hazardous coating removal and inspection-driven maintenance programs
Talk to an Expert Today
Precision Laser Cleaning delivers proven laser solutions that improve inspection results, minimise risk, and help reduce outage time.
Contact Us