Gas-Insulated Switchgear Substations.

Gas-insulated switchgear substations control, protect and isolate high-voltage electrical networks within a compact enclosed system. They distribute power, interrupt electrical faults and allow sections of the network to be safely isolated for maintenance while maintaining reliable system operation.

MEA was engaged by Siemens Australia to complete the on-site abrasive grit blasting and protective recoating of multiple electrical substations across Queensland. Works were undertaken one substation at a time, with MEA's specialist coating team mobilising to each site and operating under strict high-voltage safety controls. This included the use of fibreglass scaffolding, insulated and specialist tooling, controlled work zones and detailed protection of insulators, cabling and all non-coated components prior to enclosed blasting and recoating.

MEA also received multiple gas-insulated switchgear units and associated enclosures at its Gladstone workshop for full surface preparation and recoating. Each unit was completed under stringent quality requirements, including coating inspections, systematic dry film thickness testing and detailed QA documentation.

Following completion, the equipment was carefully repacked using shrink wrapping, vacuum sealing and purpose-built timber crates for protected transport and delivery. The program was completed across Queensland over a two-year period, demonstrating MEA's capability to deliver high-quality coating refurbishment in both live electrical environments and controlled workshop conditions.