overview

Precision meets size – SGS installs Australia's largest particleboard production line

Industry

Wood-based products

Status

In progress

Country

Mount Gambier, Australia

Services

Construction management & supervision, Electrical installation, Mechanical assembly, Pipline assembly, Project Management

Australian Panels is investing in the future: Australia's most modern and largest chipboard production line is being built at the Mount Gambier site – with an expected annual capacity of over 650,000 m³. SGS Industrial Services is responsible for the mechanical assembly, electrical installation in some areas and the pipework at this cutting-edge facility on behalf of Australian Panels. With technical precision, global experience and a strong team, SGS is making a significant contribution to the successful implementation of this major project.

Project data

Commissioner: Australian Panels Pty. Ltd.
Customer: Australian Panels Pty. Ltd.
Industry: Wood-based products
Construction location: Mount Gambier, Australia
Contruction period: 4 Years
Contributors: At peak times 100
Specialties: Directorial project mechanical assembly and electrical installation

Scope of delivery & service

Mechanical assembly, electrical installation in sub-areas and piping:

MDF Board Production line
OSB Board Production line
Particle Board production line
Laminating lines

SGS Scope of Services

SGS is responsible for the mechanical assembly and electrical installation in certain areas, as well as the piping construction, of the new production line.

The project covers several key areas of wood-based panel production, including MDF, OSB and chipboard production lines, as well as laminating plants.

Currently (as of November 2025), around 75 SGS employees are working on site. Assembly work is being carried out in the following areas:

Cooling drum
Extraction system
Forming line & forming structure
Minimax
Outside area
Paper treater
Particle board press area
Piping & workshop

The total project duration extends from March 2024 to the end of 2028 – a long-term, complex undertaking that requires the highest level of technical and organisational expertise.

SGS is responsible for the assembly of plant components with a total weight of several thousand tons and coordinates all assembly, lifting and welding work in close consultation with the trades involved.

Challenges and Solutions

This is one of the most extensive and long-term assembly projects in SGS's corporate history. The project’s geographical location and distance present special challenges: a 9.5-hour time difference and travel times of up to 40 hours require meticulous planning and flexibility. Additionally, visa applications and the regular exchange of specialized personnel demand seamless coordination. Additionally, logistical organisation and coordination of different trades place high demands on planning, communication and leadership. Thanks to clear structures, proven processes and experienced project management, SGS ensures consistent maintenance of quality, safety and schedule.

This project is a great example of the importance of teamwork and organisation in long-term projects. Despite staff turnover and geographical distance, the quality remains consistent – that's true SGS performance.

Florian Schneebauer, Project Manager

SGS Industrial Services GmbH

About our customer

Australian Panels Pty. Ltd. is a leading Australian manufacturer of engineered wood products, including melamine panels, MDF, and particleboard. As part of the Borg Group, the company stands for innovative, sustainable production processes and high-quality products. With state-of-the-art facilities and a clear focus on sustainability, the company offers innovative solutions for the construction and furnishing sector. Find out more at www.australianpanels.com.au/.