Hope Downs Iron Ore Project

Western Australia

Maunsell was commissioned to undertake a feasibility study for approximately 370km of railway between Hope Downs Mine and Port Hedland.  A cost estimate for the construction of the railway was prepared to assist with an evaluation of the project’s feasibility.

The rail route traversed a wide range of topographical forms, which included steep narrow gullies, major rivers, and the Fortescue and coastal flood plains.  Drainage systems consisting of culverts and bridges were designed to minimise the disruption of natural water courses and allow free passage of rainfall runoff.

Peak design flows were determined for each drainage structure based on catchment area, stream length and stream slope.  The design flows were then used to design the culverts and bridges.  Waterway analysis was required at the bridges to determine their size and deck level and to ensure sufficient freeboard.