CPB Contractors’ Peter Ting was awarded Engineer of the Year at the 2023 Civil Construction Federation’s (CCF) Industry and Training Award. Peter’s award win formally recognises his ability to develop innovative engineering solutions while delivering BHP’s Wind Fences Project in Port Hedland, Western Australia.
Transitioning to plastic formwork
Peter spearheaded the rollout of lightweight plastic formwork on the project as a replacement for plywood. The transition to plastic formwork has helped reduce waste, had no requirement for chemicals, was faster to install and was approximately 1.5x more efficient than plywood.
Adoption of high-strength U bolts
Peter also championed the project’s adoption of U bolts over large fillet welds. Efficiency has tripled due to this transition as U bolts do not require welding or hot works, which eliminates the need for welding spotters as labourers can install the bolts.
Tackling short supply with 20mm steel plates
When N28 to N36 radius bars were in short supply, Peter researched, tested and advocated for a switch to 20mm steel plates. Through taking a new approach to supply chain challenges Peter helped to eliminate sourcing delays and keep the project on schedule.
CPB Contractors is delivering the Port Hedland Wind Fences for BHP, a first-of-their-kind project in Australia. Specially designed for the Pilbara region’s extreme weather conditions, the wind fences will improve air quality by reducing wind speeds and dust lift-off.