Australian Process Plant

International arbitration >$100m | Team mobilised to assist | Expert evidence in “hot tub”

Background 

The project consisted of various packages relating to the processing and transportation of iron ore.  Of relevance to the Ridge expert’s instructions were several of the steel structures, including buildings, conveyors and transfer stations. 

The Ridge structural engineering expert was instructed by solicitors on behalf of the designer, which was in dispute with the company responsible for detailing, procurement of the steel, shipping and subsequent erection of the structures.  

The dispute centred around delays to the project, and the Ridge expert was asked to opine on various issues relating to the design documentation provided by the designer, the shop detailing documentation provided by the other party, and the associated actions of the two parties. 

To provide answers to the questions asked, the expert had to analyse many thousands of drawings, 2D and 3D models, and technical queries.  The expert mobilised a team of experience engineers from within Ridge which carried out much of the analysis in accordance with the expert’s strict methodology and results-recording protocols. 

The expert produced reports, attended experts’ meetings and produced a joint statement, was cross examined in the hearing and also took part in “hot-tubbing”. 

Feedback 

In the Final Award the tribunal stated that it preferred the evidence of the Ridge expert.  On conclusion of the matter, the solicitor commented:

Just brilliant.  [Ridge expert] you were magnificent.  The Tribunal loved your evidence.