Queensland’s incident-plagued Callide coal-fired power station has suffered another operational blow, with Unit C3 forced offline until the end of May due to a serious incident caused by a pressure spike, or ‘clinker incident’.
According to a CS Energy spokesperson, on April 4 a significant clinker (hardened ash) detached from the internal boiler wall of Unit C3.
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When the clinker detached, it resulted in a pressure spike within the furnace. Initial assessments show repairs are required to cladding and lagging on the upper section of the boiler.
“No one was in the area at the time of the event and there were no injuries. The unit’s protection systems worked as designed to shut down the unit,” the spokesperson said.
“Investigations and inspections are ongoing to fully assess what occurred and the repairs required to safely return the unit to service. Access is restricted to key personnel only.
“Across all CS Energy power stations, we have strengthened clinker controls and are continuing proactive clinker deloads as guided by management tools. Access is also being restricted in boiler areas while clinker deloads are carried out.
“Callide Power Station’s other three generating units, as well as Kogan Creek Power Station, are all online and available to support Queensland’s energy needs.”
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This incident comes after Callide C4 unit being offline for more than three years following a catastrophic explosion in 2021, estimated to have cost taxpayers nearly $50 million.
Meanwhile, the Queensland LNP Government has just announced a new five-year energy plan that hinges on coal and gas, with plans to refurbish both Callide and Tarong coal-fired power stations.
