3D LiDAR Scanning at Tomago – Reducing Shutdown Risks in Aluminium Processing Plants

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Supporting Industrial Maintenance, Plant Modifications and Mechanical Engineering in Tomago, NSW Industrial facilities in Tomago, near Newcastle in New South Wales, operate with complex mechanical equipment, structural steelwork, pipework, conveyors and processing infrastructure. For aluminium smelting and associated manufacturing operations, maintaining accurate information about existing plant conditions is essential when planning equipment upgrades, replacement components and maintenance shutdowns. Hamilton By Design provides 3D LiDAR scanning, point cloud modelling and mechanical engineering services to support industrial facilities throughout Tomago, Newcastle and the Hunter Region. Why Accurate Plant Measurements Matter Industrial plant modifications can be challenging when existing drawings are outdated, incomplete or do not reflect changes made during previous maintenance activities. Traditional site measurements may also miss important details, particularly around congested pi...

CAD Services

 CAD Services: Turning Real-World Data into Buildable Engineering Designs

In today’s engineering environment, CAD services are no longer just drafting — they are the backbone of how projects are designed, coordinated, and delivered.

At Hamilton By Design, we approach CAD differently.

We don’t just draw — we engineer, validate, and deliver buildable outcomes.


What Are CAD Services?

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) services involve creating accurate digital drawings and 3D models used for:

  • Mechanical design
  • Structural detailing
  • Pipework and slurry systems
  • Fabrication drawings
  • Brownfield plant upgrades

These drawings form the single source of truth for fabrication, installation, and project delivery.


Engineering CAD workstation displaying a 3D plant model with point cloud data, overlooking an illuminated industrial mining facility at dusk.



Engineering-Led CAD (Not Just Drafting)

There’s a big difference between basic drafting and engineering-grade CAD.

At Hamilton By Design, our CAD services are:

  • Based on real-world data (LiDAR point clouds where required)
  • Developed with engineering intent
  • Checked against Australian Standards
  • Structured for fabrication and construction

This means fewer errors, fewer RFIs, and smoother project delivery.


Our CAD Capabilities

We provide a full range of CAD services across mining, industrial, and infrastructure projects:

Mechanical CAD Design

  • Equipment layouts
  • Conveyor and chute systems
  • Pump skids and piping assemblies
  • Reverse engineering of existing assets

Structural Drafting

  • Steel framing and platforms
  • Access systems (ladders, walkways, handrails)
  • Detailed fabrication drawings

Pipework & Slurry Systems

  • Pipe routing and spool drawings
  • Slurry line design and detailing
  • Tie-ins to existing infrastructure

Scan-to-CAD Modelling

  • Conversion of point cloud data into accurate CAD models
  • Clash detection and clearance validation
  • Brownfield upgrade support

Why CAD Matters in Brownfield Projects

In brownfield environments, existing assets rarely match original drawings.

That’s where engineering-grade CAD combined with LiDAR scanning becomes critical.

We capture reality, then design from it.

Benefits include:

  • Reduced site rework
  • Accurate fitment of new components
  • Improved shutdown planning
  • Better coordination between trades

Deliverables You Can Actually Build From

We don’t just issue “pretty drawings.”

We deliver:

  • General Arrangement (GA) drawings
  • Detailed fabrication drawings
  • Sections and elevations
  • Simplified models for coordination
  • Fully structured CAD files for revision control

All drawings are issued with clear revision control and engineering traceability.


3D laser scanning icon showing a LiDAR scanner capturing a structural steel beam point cloud model

CAD + Digital Engineering = Better Project Control

Our CAD services integrate with digital engineering workflows, including:

  • Point cloud data management
  • Version-controlled drawing registers
  • Cloud-based access to models and drawings
  • Multi-vendor coordination environments

This ensures your project has a clear chain of custody for all engineering data.


Built for Mining and Industrial Environments

We specialise in:

  • Mining plants
  • Processing facilities
  • Heavy industry
  • Brownfield upgrades

We understand the realities of:

  • Limited access
  • Shutdown constraints
  • Legacy infrastructure
  • High-risk environments

Why Choose Hamilton By Design?

  • Mechanical engineering background
  • Real site experience (not just office drafting)
  • LiDAR + CAD integration
  • Fast turnaround times
  • Practical, buildable solutions

We bridge the gap between design and reality.





Let’s Talk About Your Project

Whether you need:

  • A simple drawing update
  • A full plant upgrade model
  • Or a scan-to-CAD solution


Hamilton By Design can help.

www.hamiltonbydesign.com.au

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