All posts by Coral Fraser

Client Focus

AFRISAM SMOOTHS THE CUSTOMER JOURNEY 

It is now easier than ever to manage the purchase of construction materials from AfriSam, but the whole customer experience is much deeper than just this moment in the relationship.

“We have built our business around our customers, ensuring that they are buying not just our products but peace of mind and long-term cost effectiveness,” says Richard Tomes, AfriSam Sales and Marketing Executive. “Beyond the products themselves, customers are also benefiting from our depth of technical expertise and support – while also joining our quest to create a better society.”

Tomes highlights that AfriSam’s digital platform ClickToGo streamlines the customer experience when purchasing products online. It provides a seamless process from enquiries and quotes, through order placement and technical advice, to payments and delivery tracking.

“At the same time, we know that customers often need to speak directly to an informed and responsible employee, who will deal with their query – however complex,” he says. “Automated systems can’t always do that, so we have a contact centre manned by experienced people, and they work from a centralised office – not from home – that is well resourced for optimal responsiveness.”

He emphasises, though, that the whole customer experience rests upon decades of innovation and a market leading expertise that underpins the success of customers’ projects – whether large or small. Serving the growing DIY and small builder market, for instance, AfriSam’s quality All Purpose Cement ensures strength and longevity in a diverse range of applications.

“For those segments where the risk of selecting an inappropriate cement category is high, our All Purpose Cement gives users the best results across various applications,” he says. “This is becoming more important as more and more cement is sold from retailers, often to relatively inexperienced users.”

Tomes points out that there is significant risk involved when people make poor or uninformed purchasing decisions about critical building material like cement. The BBC has reported that the Nigerian capital Lagos experiences a building collapse every two weeks on average, with substandard or inappropriate building material being a common factor. 

“We also see tragic consequences from unsafe food in South Africa, and we should recognise that products like cement also require informed purchasing decisions,” he says. “We are proud that we can assure people of our guaranteed quality, so that they can build safe and durable buildings.” 

At the same time as it serves inexperienced users, AfriSam is well known for its leading edge skills and facilities, on which large and medium-sized contractors often rely for technical advice, bespoke concrete mixes and specialised support. Its reputation for reliability also means that quality is consistent and deliveries are on time, keeping projects on track and on budget.

“This capability gives our customers the comfort that project risks are being effectively mitigated, to deliver structures that are safe and long-lasting,” says Tomes. “It also ensures value for money, as quality materials in construction will avoid unbudgeted expenditure on repairs and maintenance.”

As a responsible company investing continuously in skills and community development, AfriSam’s commitment to a ‘positive African future’ includes maintaining and nurturing critical expertise for construction to thrive. 

“As a BBBEE Level 2 contributor, we actively pursue transformation goals for our company, the sector and the country,” he says. “This ensures that the economic growth we facilitate is inclusive and supports future livelihoods for all.”

Client Focus

SELECTING THE PERFECT DEWATERING PUMP IS ESSENTIAL

Selecting the right pump for the right application is critical for effective water management in quarries and open pit mines. Dredging and pump specialist, IPR (Integrated Pump Rental), advises that the selection process should consider a number of key factors, and chief among them are brand reputation, supplier’s expertise, site parameters and the customer’s financial situation. 

While it is true that the selection of a dewatering pump for a mine or quarry largely hinges on specific site or application requirements, Steve du Toit, Sales Manager at IPR, believes that the supplier’s expertise should be a principal factor. 

“Each of our installations starts with a detailed assessment of site-specific dewatering requirements. Through that process, IPR’s technical experts get a clear understanding of the unique conditions of the mine, such as water volume, pit dimensions and site-specific challenges. After this, the IPR team is able to recommend the most appropriate equipment and strategies for dewatering, ensuring optimal performance and cost efficiency for the customer,” says Du Toit. 

According to Lee Vine MD of IPR, site-specific conditions, such as volume of water to be pumped and the rate at which it accumulates, will inform parameters such as head (the height at which a pump can raise the fluid up) and flow (the amount of water the pump can move at a given time) which, in turn, determine the size and type of pump or pumps required.

Dealing with a supplier that can offer a wide range of choices means that operations can get all their dewatering pump needs from one place. For example, IPR offers both diesel-driven and submersible dewatering pumps. Designed to be fully submerged in water during operation, submersible pumps are ideal for operations where continuous dewatering is required. IPR’s self-priming diesel driven pump sets are suitable for dewatering applications where power is not readily available. 

“The next consideration should be the capital situation for the customer. The financial position of the mine or quarry determines whether to buy or to rent a dewatering pump solution. If capital outlay is an issue, rental will be ideal because it eliminates the need for a substantial upfront capital expenditure, freeing up the much needed budget for other pressing needs,” says Vine. 

In addition, says Vine, rental costs can be classified as operational expenses and this is especially important where dewatering is a critical necessity, yet there is no capex available. In a scenario where the project is long term and capital is available, outright purchase makes sense.

In conclusion, says Du Toit, when choosing vitally important assets such as dewatering pumps it is also important to consider the reputation of the brand and the aftermarket support behind it. IPR is part of the Specialty Rental division within the Power Technique Business Area of Atlas Copco and supplies the premium Atlas Copco product, which is known for its reliability, good warranty terms and, more importantly, parts availability from IPR. The company is also the official distributor for Toyo heavy-duty slurry pumps and supplies the locally manufactured SlurrySucker dredging solution. 

Client Focus

LEAP FORWARD IN BELT TRACKING TECHNOLOGY

To help bulk material handling operations address conveyor belt misalignments, a common issue in quarrying and mining, Tru-Trac Rollers has introduced its Apex Taper Trough Tracker, the next leap forward in belt tracking technology. 

That conveyor belt mistracking is one of the most common causes of unscheduled downtime in conveyor systems is no overstatement. Belt misalignment causes spillage, belt edge damage, damage to the structure, increased power consumption and increased labour costs. Misaligned belts will ultimately result in lost production, increased operating costs and safety hazards.

To help mining and materials handling operations prevent this from happening, Tru-Trac Rollers has brought to market its innovative Apex Taper Trough Tracker, the ultimate misalignment solution for conveyor belt systems. Available in four types – Standard, HD, XHD and EXHD – the range ushers in a new era with an array of innovative features. Key among them is the combination of the tapers and in-line idler configuration mounted on a unique centre pivot, providing fast reactive and continuous belt tracking in all conditions.

“The pivot system has been enhanced significantly. The upgraded system now includes enhancements for durability and better protection against dust, especially in fine dust environments,” explains Douglas van der Westhuizen, Technical Sales Representative at Tru-Trac Rollers. 

With its compact design, the Apex Taper Trough Tracker can be installed effortlessly in tight spaces, such as under hoods or on tripper cars. The new cantilevered wing roll and cradle replace the previous design’s protruding adjustment bolts, eliminating space constraints and potential safety hazards. Adjustments are now quick and straightforward, allowing for easy angle setting of the wing rollers.

“The Apex Taper Trough Tracker’s inline taper wing rollers are designed for compatibility with trough angles up to 60 degrees and can flatten as low as 10 degrees for easy installation and transportation. This is a significant upgrade to the maximum 50 degrees trough angle on the previous system,” says Guy Fitt, National Sales Manager at Tru-Trac Rollers. 

The improved custom-compounded GRIP-TRAC™ rubber lagging and patented tread pattern on wing rolls offer enhanced traction and tracking performance and extended working life of the replaceable wing rolls, further reducing total cost of ownership.

Increased responsiveness is yet another key benefit of the new Apex Taper Trough Tracker. The optimised centre of gravity and weight distribution offers improved stability, control and balance. This enhances sensitivity to belt misalignment and tracking performance by increasing efficiency and responsiveness.

“We used Electra Mining Africa last year to showcase how the new Apex Taper Trough Tracker ushers in a new era in belt tracking technology and several clients who visited our stand were thrilled to witness the outstanding capabilities of this groundbreaking technology. Operations that are already running the system have also expressed great satisfaction with the exceptional performance of the Apex Taper Trough Tracker,” concludes Fitt.

Client Focus

AUTOMATING DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR EFFICIENCY, RELIABILITY

Already in use by leading global manufacturers in South Africa, SEW-EURODRIVE’s innovative MOVIC® modular automation system will bring a new level of flexibility, integration and efficiency to a wide range of sectors. 

The MOVI-C® range received its formal public launch in South Africa at the Electra Mining Africa exhibition, opening exciting opportunities for local industries, according to Willem Strydom, SEW-EURODRIVE’s Manager Business Development Electronics.

“MOVI-C® is a modular automation system that includes all necessary components for drive and control solutions, from software to hardware,” says Strydom. “Its modularity means that it can be customised to meet the specific requirements of different applications and industries.”

Customers have been attracted by benefits such as the seamless integration of all components, he explains, which ensures compatibility and reduces installation time. The technology also meets high energy efficiency standards, helping customers to reduce their operational costs while minimising their environmental impact.

“The modular system comprises cabinet inverters,  decentralised field mounted drives, motion controllers and the software, which all complement each other,” he says. 

A key feature of SEW-EURODRIVE’s offering is the MOVILINK® digital data interface (DDI), which connects the drivetrain to the data system – delivering real time information on indicators such as energy efficiency, application performance and condition monitoring.

“This innovative DDI solution is an important differentiator for SEW-EURODRIVE as there is no other player in the market who currently has this offering,” says Strydom. It fits into the motor with no external or additional sensors, and boasts a hybrid cable which is bespoke to SEW-EURODRIVE, connecting the motor to the variable speed drive (VSD). The cable carries not only the power supply, but also the communications and condition monitoring. 

“The data generated and transmitted is vital in facilitating predictive maintenance,” he explains. “Customers can monitor vital signs such as the temperatures and vibration levels in a motor and gearbox; the value of getting this information ‘live’ is that action can quickly be taken if important operating parameters are breached.”

The advanced features allow the SEW IOT Suite software to alert the user by email, WhatsApp or telephone call – and can even shut down the application to prevent any damage. The software interface can be employed on computer or as an app on a mobile phone, depending on how the user wants to monitor their equipment. 

“The real time feedback from an application in the field also allows systems to be adjusted for optimal performance and efficiency,” he says. “For instance, the motor speed can be changed continuously according to the demands of the application, saving energy and potentially extending machine life.”

Importantly, the heightened sensitivity of the sensors means that users are alerted earlier, as they will pick up warning signs before human operators can hear or feel any indication of a problem. 

Strydom highlights that the versatile system is suitable for both centralised and decentralised automation architectures, providing flexibility for different installation requirements. The MOVISUITE® engineering software is designed to be user friendly, so that it can simplify the planning, commissioning, operation and diagnostics functionality. 

“The MOVI-C® system can also be scaled to meet the specific needs of various industrial processes, whether these are single-axis or multi-axis applications, with simple or complex motion control,” he explains. 

The Movi-C portfolio also includes preconfigured software modules, known as Movikits for the implementation of simple drive functions such as speed control and positioning, through to complex multi-axes motion control functions. An example is the Anti-Sway Movikit which is used to eliminate sway in overhead crane applications.

While MOVI-C® has applications across the board, its powerful capabilities are well demonstrated in stacking and retrieval systems in industrial warehouses, he explains. This application includes both a travelling element (sideways movement) and a hoisting element (up and down movement).

“Wherever  applications produce regenerative power, the regenerative power supply can harness  the regenerative power and re-utilise it by directing it back into the system or storing it in battery packs or capacitor banks,” he says. 

In South Africa, the system is being used by global automotive manufacturers, and has also been embraced by the food and beverage sector. Strydom sees significant opportunities in the mining industry, including ventilation functions and plant activities using pumps that need more accurate control. 

Client Focus

TRAFO EVOLVES TO OFFER RANGE OF ELECTRICAL POWER SOLUTIONS

Having rapidly carved a niche in dry-type transformer applications in Africa, Trafo Power Solutions has steadily grown its offerings – and now sees a future as a leading provider of electrical power solutions. 

This evolution has been underpinned by the company’s strong design and engineering capability, and its in-depth technical understanding of various aspects of electrical projects. Managing Director of Trafo Power Solutions, David Claassen, says the success to date has been based on its customised design and rapid execution of solutions that fit perfectly into the broader project requirements.

“We have a reputation for how well we understand the conditions and applications in which our transformers must operate,” says Claassen. “This broad technical knowledge has also allowed us to build more complete solutions that include a transformer as one of the many components.”

For instance, Trafo Power Solutions has been growing into the field of integrated modular substations for the mining and other sectors. These installations have seen particularly enthusiastic uptake in mining due to often remote locations at which power is required. Building a traditional brick-and-mortar substation on site can be complex and time consuming, whereas a modular substation or e-house can be constructed and tested in a specialised workshop – and then shipped to site.

“Our dry-type transformers are ideally suited for these installations, as their high safety rating allows them to be integrated into the substation structure during assembly,” he says. “In contrast, conventional oil-cooled transformers carry a higher safety risk, so must usually be located separately; they also need protective infrastructure to ensure that any oil leakage does not cause environmental contamination.”

Trafo Power Solutions’ depth of expertise and experience allows it to design and supply entire modular substations, which have been supplied to customers around Africa. A recent order, for a skid-mounted solution, was even undertaken for a mining customer in Australia, and completed in a short timeframe that could not be matched by competitors. 

The company’s strategy to further grow its range of electrical power solutions is supported by its established relationships with blue-chip customers, who include end-users, engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) firms and electrical consultants. 

“We see engineering capability as the heart of our business, and so we focus on value addition in our customer relationships,” he says. “We are also strengthening our footprint across Africa to be closer to customers, developing links with specialist in-country partners as we develop and apply high value solutions.”

Client Focus

FIRST CRUSHER FOR SANDVIK-S&R PARTNERSHIP

In a promising start to S&R Enterprises’ mandate as a Sandvik Rock Processing distributor, its first Sandvik mobile jaw crusher has been delivered to a mining contractor on a coal operation in South Africa’s Mpumalanga coal fields.

According to S&R Enterprises’ Managing Member, Stephen Smith, the sale highlights not only the demand for Sandvik’s high quality equipment, but signals a new era in aftermarket support for the Sandvik range of mobile crushers across the country. The machine is a Sandvik QJ341 mobile jaw crusher with production capacity of 400 tonnes per hour, boasting several differentiators and meeting the customer’s demanding targets.

“With a large feed opening of 1200 mm by 750 mm, this unit can crush down to a 50 mm closed-side setting,” says Smith. “This is a standout feature which positions this mobile crusher very well in the market, allowing the customer to achieve his required output size without having multiple crushing stages.”

He highlights that the Sandvik QJ341 brings the customer the powerful combination of a large chamber jaw crusher with the lower running costs of a medium sized machine. As a contractor, the customer is also looking for optimal uptime and reliability – which is the focus of S&R Enterprises’ strategy to deliver exceptional service. 

“Our approach has always been to build long term relationships with our customers,” he explains. “This is why we continue to expand our support network to be closer to the sites where our machines operate.”

In close collaboration with Sandvik Rock Processing, S&R Enterprises is also raising its inventory levels in anticipation of the growing demand. Smith says that his business is well known for its agility and quick response times – getting the necessary parts and wear items out to customers when they need them.

“With his experience of how we work, this customer appreciates the agility of our team and the reassurance that parts and service will be readily available,” he notes. “Operational efficiency is non-negotiable, so we want our customers to feel confident not just in the equipment but in the support they’ll receive from us.”

In a coal mining operation, it is also vital to control the generation of fine material, and contractors are usually required to meet certain laid down specifications. The Sandvik jaw crushers perform well on this score, he says. Durability in these harsh operating conditions remains a key factor for contractors, and this solution includes the use of steel hydraulic lines instead of rubber hoses. 

“The electronic controls in the Sandvik QJ341 mobile crusher are an important advantage for contractors, when compared to mechanically controlled machines,” says Smith. “Safety standards in mining and quarrying are stricter than ever, and electronic controls are more effective in ensuring safe operation.”

For instance, the correct delay timers and other settings can be specified according to the mine or quarry’s particular requirements and procedures. He emphasises that the electronic functionality of the Sandvik machine makes it easier for a contractor to keep up with progress in their sectors. 

“It also provides more precise diagnostics, which is another valuable feature to help technicians to troubleshoot quickly and keep machines running optimally,” he concludes. 

Client Focus

IPR EXPANDS RAPID RESPONSE DEWATERING SERVICES ACROSS SOUTHERN AFRICA 

Leading dewatering pump solutions provider, IPR (Integrated Pump Rental) is taking a significant step forward in its service offering following its acquisition by Atlas Copco’s Specialty Rental Division. With this strategic move, IPR is poised to bring the same rapid-response service that its South African customers have come to rely on, to mining sectors across Southern Africa.

Mining operations across Southern Africa are often challenged by heavy rainfall, groundwater infiltration and operational water management issues. Efficient and reliable dewatering solutions are critical for minimising disruptions, safeguarding operational continuity and maximising productivity. IPR’s newly expanded footprint, supported by Atlas Copco’s vast resources and regional presence, ensures that mining clients in neighbouring countries will now have easier access to high quality pump rental services, faster response times and broader technical support.

Leveraging Atlas Copco’s Strengths

Atlas Copco’s Specialty Rental Division is known globally for its comprehensive service offerings, providing critical equipment for various industries including mining. Through this acquisition, IPR is now able to leverage Atlas Copco’s extensive regional footprint, advanced logistics and strong presence in Southern Africa’s mining hubs. This allows IPR to provide rapid service responses to customers in remote mining locations with greater efficiency.

Customers will benefit from faster access to dewatering pumps and solutions as the acquisition enhances IPR’s ability to deliver both diesel-driven surface and electric submersible pumps quickly across borders, minimising downtime for mines experiencing water management challenges.

Wider service coverage is now a given with Atlas Copco’s established operations and networks across Southern Africa. This will allow IPR to deliver its services to regions that were previously harder to reach, supporting mines from Angola and Zambia to Namibia and Mozambique.

IPR will also tap into Atlas Copco’s extensive engineering expertise, further enhancing the level of technical support available to customers across the region. This will ensure that customers receive not just the equipment, but also the best advice and after-sales support, helping mines optimise their water management and minimise operational risks. 

In South Africa, IPR has built a solid reputation for providing rental solutions for short, medium and long-term dewatering needs. Its product range includes Atlas Copco diesel-driven pump sets as well as electric submersible pumps, Toyo heavy duty slurry pumps and SlurrySucker dredging units, which are critical for desilting operations in dams and reservoirs. By being under the Atlas Copco umbrella, IPR now extends this level of reliable tailored service to mining operations across the broader region.

“We are excited to bring our efficient dewatering solutions to more mining operations across Southern Africa,” says Steve du Toit, Sales Manager at IPR. “By leveraging Atlas Copco’s well-established presence, we can ensure faster delivery, better service and superior support to our customers. This means minimised downtime and maximum productivity, wherever they are located.”

As mining operations across Southern Africa continue to face unpredictable weather patterns and growing demands for operational efficiency, IPR’s expanded reach promises a significant improvement in the management of dewatering challenges. With the backing of Atlas Copco’s vast resources, the future looks bright for mines looking for dependable dewatering solutions delivered with speed and expertise.

The acquisition of IPR by Atlas Copco’s Specialty Rental Division is a win for the Southern African mining sector. With faster access to top-tier dewatering equipment and support, mines across the region can now expect the same level of service excellence that has defined IPR’s operations in South Africa. This expanded footprint and enhanced response capability underscore IPR’s commitment to providing timely, reliable dewatering solutions to mining operations, no matter how remote.

Client Focus

UNLEASH THE POWER OF SUPERIOR CONSTRUCTION WITH AFRISAM HIGH STRENGTH CEMENT

AfriSam High Strength Cement has become the benchmark in the South African construction industry, providing unmatched strength and durability that cater to both large-scale projects and intricate construction needs. This premium product is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of modern construction, offering a multitude of benefits that enhance the quality and longevity of structures.

This versatile product is designed for a wide range of applications, and is particularly suited for the construction of high-rise buildings, bridges and other infrastructure projects that require exceptional strength and resilience. Its superior compressive strength makes it ideal for load-bearing structures, ensuring stability and safety over extended periods. Additionally, this cement is perfect for use in precast concrete products, where consistency and reliability are paramount.

One of the key advantages of AfriSam High Strength Cement is its enhanced durability. Structures built with this cement are better equipped to withstand environmental stresses such as extreme weather conditions, chemical exposure and mechanical wear and tear. This results in longer lasting constructions that require less maintenance and repair, ultimately leading to significant cost savings over the lifespan of the structures.

The cement’s rapid strength development is another noteworthy benefit. Projects using AfriSam High Strength Cement can achieve faster turnaround times, as the cement reaches its optimal strength more quickly than standard cement types. This efficiency not only accelerates construction schedules but also reduces labour costs and minimises the potential for project delays.

AfriSam High Strength Cement boasts excellent workability, allowing for easier handling and application. This facilitates smoother and more precise construction processes, contributing to higher quality finishes and reduced wastage. The cement’s compatibility with various admixtures further enhances its versatility, enabling it to be tailored to specific project requirements and environmental conditions.

Sustainability is a core value at AfriSam, and its High Strength Cement reflects this commitment. The product is manufactured using environmentally responsible practices, minimising its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable construction. By choosing AfriSam High Strength Cement, builders and developers are contributing to a more sustainable future while benefiting from a product that delivers exceptional performance.

Client Focus

SETTING THE ACCURACY STANDARD IN CONVEYOR WEIGHING SOLUTIONS

The accurate measurement of bulk materials is essential across industries like mining, processing plants and aggregate handling. Tru-Trac’s Belt Scale Systems are at the forefront of delivering innovative technology that ensures precise and reliable measurements, setting new benchmarks in conveyor belt efficiency and operational control.

In industries reliant on efficient material handling, maintaining precise weighing systems is paramount for optimising production processes and managing inventory effectively. Tru-Trac Belt Scale Systems offer unparalleled accuracy and reliability, even in challenging environments. They provide crucial data for informed decision-making and operational streamlining.

Traditional belt scales often struggle in harsh industrial settings, where conditions can lead to inaccuracies and frequent recalibrations. Tru-Trac’s advanced belt scale systems overcome these challenges by integrating state-of-the-art technology with robust design principles, ensuring consistent performance and precision.

A key component to Tru-Trac’s Belt Scale Systems are high-precision load cells that deliver accurate measurements essential for effective material handling. These systems feature innovative digitisation located close to the load cells and carriage, eliminating the need for traditional junction boxes. This design enhances signal integrity, ensuring precise data transmission and reliable weighing results critical for optimal operational control.

Tinus Ludik, BMH Sales Manager at Tru-Trac, highlights the system’s design advantages: “Our belt scales leverage advanced digitisation to maintain high signal integrity and accuracy, minimising errors and delivering consistent, precise measurements crucial for efficient material handling.”

Tru-Trac’s Belt Scales are engineered for seamless integration into both new and existing conveyor systems. Their flexibility allows them to meet diverse operational requirements, from single conveyor installations to complex multi-scale setups. The user-friendly human-machine interface (HMI) with a touch screen provides intuitive controls, making the system accessible even in harsh industrial conditions.

The belt scales support multiple communication protocols through various integrators, ensuring compatibility with different control systems. This flexibility simplifies integration and facilitates efficient data management, enhancing overall system efficiency and reliability.

An optional feature of Tru-Trac’s Belt Scale Systems is the Remote Monitoring System (RMS) offering real-time access to operational data and remote calibration capabilities. This system minimises the need for on-site maintenance, allowing users to monitor their systems from any networked device. “Our RMS provides real-time data access and remote calibration, reducing maintenance needs and offering continuous operational oversight,” Ludik says. 

At a major aggregate handling facility, Tru-Trac’s Belt Scale System delivered transformative results. Faced with accuracy and reliability challenges in their existing systems, the facility experienced operational inefficiencies and increased costs. Tru-Trac’s advanced system featuring high-precision load cells and enhanced digitisation provided accurate reliable measurements, improving inventory management and production control.

Ludik says that implementing the Tru-Trac Belt Scale System at the aggregate facility demonstrated its effectiveness in providing precise measurements, even in challenging environments. The accurate data optimised production processes and reduced operational inefficiencies. 

“The aggregate facility witnessed significant improvements in weighing accuracy and operational efficiency. Our technology proved capable of handling demanding conditions while delivering the precision needed to enhance performance,” he says. 

Tru-Trac’s capabilities extend beyond accurate weighing to include comprehensive conveyor solutions such as belt cleaners and impact and spillage control around loading zones. These systems integrate seamlessly with Tru-Trac’s Belt Scale Systems, ensuring cohesive management of material handling processes and reducing material loss.

By combining Tru-Trac’s belt scales with Rip Detection and Metal Detector solutions, operators achieve a streamlined material handling process, minimizing maintenance and optimizing performance.

Tru-Trac’s Belt Scale Systems represent a breakthrough in conveyor weighing technology, offering high-precision load cells, advanced digitization, and real-time monitoring capabilities. These systems deliver the accuracy and reliability needed for efficient bulk material handling, making them ideal for both new installations and retrofits.

Client Focus

CUSTOM CHUTES SHOW THEIR METTLE WITH ABRASIVE ORE

With most of its 5,000-strong global footprint of transfer chutes being installed in Southern Africa, Johannesburg-based Weba Chute Systems has built a reputation in demanding mining conditions.

The region is a leading producer of platinum and manganese, for instance, which are both highly abrasive ores, points out Dewald Tintinger, Technical Manager at Weba Chute Systems. The company’s innovative approach and customised designs control material flow and resist wear, matching specific site conditions.

“First and foremost, a chute must facilitate optimal throughput so that mining production is not hampered by frequent blockages or repairs,” says Tintinger. “It is well known that the cost of a quality chute is a fraction of the cost of lost production through downtime.”

He highlights that Weba Chute Systems takes a systematic approach to assessing each customer’s requirements, starting with the general arrangement of the area around transfer points. The depth of experience accumulated over 40 years in business allows the company’s experts to suggest improvements to the layout – where these are possible and where they affect the chute performance.

“Then we consider a range of key factors like the material characteristics, the throughput tonnages and speed of travel, when we plan the design,” he says. “These considerations guide the application of our controlled flow philosophy.”

The design is built on scientific calculations using the anticipated trajectories, impacts and pressures on the structure. The main conceptual options are Weba’s Cascade Chute with dead boxes, the Weba Superflow chute with liners or a combination of both. 

“A key element of our popular Cascade Chute is the use of dead boxes and lips on the inside of the structure, which traps material and allows other material to flow over it,” says Tintinger. “This ensures that up to 70% of the wear surface is protected by stationery material, which substantially reduces wear and maintenance costs while extending service intervals.”

As material enters the chute and flows through, it lands mainly on other material which absorbs the impact more effectively, protecting the underlying wear plates and structure from undue damage. This also reduces dust creation, he notes, which is an ongoing health and safety concern on mines.  

“Controlling material flow through the right chute design also protects costly equipment like conveyor belts,” he says. In one example, Weba Chute Systems installed a cascade chute at a Southern African copper mine to better control the flow of material onto conveyor belts. This saved immediately on belt costs – while boosting productivity through improved uptime.