This large-scale potash mining project in Saskatchewan is set to become one of the world’s largest operations, with planned production of approximately 8.5 Mtpa at full capacity.

As part of a critical headframe replacement during commissioning, Blackstone Industrial Services partnered with the client to deliver specialized pressure testing and high-velocity oil flushing (HVOF) across seven HPU systems, supporting safe and reliable startup.

Blackstone executed a comprehensive hydraulic system integrity and cleanliness program, including:

• Pressure testing to validate piping and system integrity
• High-velocity oil flushing to remove construction-related contamination
• Hydraulic fluid purification to meet and exceed OEM cleanliness standards

Operating within a dynamic commissioning environment, the project required rapid mobilization with limited upfront planning and evolving scope conditions.

Key challenges included:

• Incomplete engineering documentation impacting planning and procurement
• Undefined scope boundaries between multiple contractors and vendors
• Ongoing construction delays requiring continuous schedule adjustments

Blackstone responded by developing pressure testing procedures with minimal inputs and scaling execution by deploying three flushing crews and equipment packages to maintain progress and meet deadlines.

Despite a complex and fast-moving site environment, Blackstone successfully delivered all seven HPU systems to a cleanliness level exceeding OEM requirements.

This resulted in:

• Improved asset reliability and extended equipment life through ultra-clean hydraulic systems
• Effective commissioning support within a high-pressure, multi-contractor environment
• Zero HSE incidents, with no safety events or oil spills

By combining technical expertise with execution agility, Blackstone helped establish a strong operational foundation for a major new potash mining operation.