All posts by Coral Fraser

Client Focus

GREATER MOVE TOWARDS DEWATERING PUMP RENTAL 

In what is probably the most exciting development in the dewatering pump industry is the news that IPR (Integrated Pump Rental) has become part of Atlas Copco’s Specialty Rental Division within the Power Technique Business Area. Announced just ahead of Electra Mining Africa, this acquisition is expected to bring significant benefits to the mining sector. 

Lee Vine, Managing Director of IPR, says the mining industry, known for its complex and demanding operations, relies heavily on effective water management solutions to ensure operational efficiency and safety. 

“We have seen a shift where dewatering pumps, essential for managing water ingress and maintaining dry working conditions, are increasingly being rented with appropriate accessories,” he says. “This trend is driven by several factors that reflect the evolving needs and challenges of the mining sector and our recent acquisition by Atlas Copco will allow us to continue to grow both our geographic footprint in Africa while increasing our already comprehensive dewatering pump rental fleet.” 

The company’s recent participation at Electra Mining Africa highlighted some of the pumps within its extensive range. This included Atlas Copco diesel self-priming pumps and submersible units as well as the range of Toyo heavy duty slurry pumps and IPR’s in-house designed SlurrySucker dredging unit.

“It is a fact that renting dewatering pumps offers mining companies a significant degree of flexibility,” Vine explains. “Instead of committing substantial capital to purchase equipment, companies can allocate resources more efficiently by renting dewatering pumps as needed. This approach allows for better financial planning and reduces the burden of maintenance and storage costs associated with owning dewatering equipment.”

Vine says the rental market for dewatering pumps is highly competitive, and IPR has stayed ahead of the curve by continuously updating its rental fleet to include the latest technological advancements. This, he says, means end-users benefit from access to state-of-the-art pumps that offer improved efficiency, reliability and environmental performance. 

“Feedback from our customers underscores the major advantage that renting offers in terms of being able to leverage the newest technology without the need for frequent capital expenditures,” he says. 

Another important advantage when renting dewatering and other pump solutions is that the mining operations can choose pumps that are tailored to the specific requirements of their projects. Whether the need is for high volume water removal, handling abrasive materials or operating in challenging conditions, IPR offers a diverse range of pump types and configurations which ensures that the most suitable equipment is selected for specific application needs.

IPR offers the market the advantage of comprehensive maintenance and support services, ensuring rented pumps and ancillary equipment remain in optimal working condition. “This reduces downtime and the risk of operational disruptions due to equipment failure,” Vine says. “Additionally, our experienced and skills team can provide valuable insights and assistance, further enhancing the efficiency of dewatering operations.” 

“The ability to scale dewatering solutions up or down based on project demands is another significant advantage when renting pumps. This is important for both underground and surface mining operations, which often face fluctuating water management needs, as they can quickly adjust their dewatering capacity by renting additional pumps or returning underutilised equipment,” he continues. This scalability ensures that mining companies can respond rapidly to changing conditions without the delays associated with procuring new equipment.

The IPR rental fleet comprises modern dewatering pumps designed to meet stringent environmental and regulatory standards. By renting newer models, mining companies can ensure compliance with environmental regulations, reducing the risk of penalties and contributing to sustainable mining practices. Advanced features such as energy-efficient motors and reduced emissions are increasingly called for, and the company can accommodate these requirements. 

Client Focus

HUMAN-CENTRIC INTEGRATION UNDERPINS BOOYCO ELECTRONICS’ APPROACH TO PDS

In the mining sector, the integration of advanced technologies such as proximity detection systems (PDS) is critical to enhancing safety and operational efficiency. While the technological aspect of PDS is essential, the human factor plays a pivotal role in the successful implementation and adoption of these systems. Recognising this, Booyco Electronics has adopted a holistic approach that prioritises collaboration with end-users to ensure these systems not only function effectively but are also embraced by the workforce.

Anton Lourens, CEO of Booyco Electronics, explains that the implementation of proximity detection systems involves more than just installing devices and software. “It requires a comprehensive understanding of the mining environment, the behaviours and routines of the workforce, and the specific safety challenges faced on-site.”

“Booyco Electronics has always acknowledged that the end-users—miners and site operators—are central to the system’s effectiveness. By focusing on the human element, it is possible to ensure that the PDS solution being implemented is not only technically sound but also practical and user-friendly,” he says. 

A significant part of Booyco Electronics’ strategy is dedicated to training and education resulting in adoption. Understanding that the success of PDS relies heavily on user proficiency, Booyco Electronics conducts extensive training programmes for miners and site managers. These programmes are designed to enhance understanding, build competence and foster acceptance. Through continuous education and training, the company ensures that the workforce is not only equipped with the necessary skills but also motivated to use the PDS effectively.

Importantly, Lourens says, every mining site is unique, with distinct operational processes and safety challenges. Booyco Electronics emphasises customisation of its PDS solutions to meet the specific needs of each site. “This is achieved through collaborative assessment, tailored solutions and ongoing feedback. By involving end-users in the implementation process, we ensure that the PDS solutions are not only technically robust but also aligned with the practical realities of the mining environment.”

“It is also especially relevant to note that the adoption of PDS is not a one-time event but an ongoing process, and Booyco Electronics provides continuous support and maintenance to ensure the sustained effectiveness of the systems,” he continues. “This includes regular updates, 24/7 support and periodic reviews. By maintaining a close partnership with end-users, our teams ensure that the PDS solutions remain effective and reliable over the long term.”

Lourens says that the human-centric approach adopted by Booyco Electronics in the implementation of proximity detection systems has led to significant improvements in safety and operational efficiency in the mining sector. This collaborative effort results in a safer, more efficient mining environment, where technology and human expertise work hand in hand to achieve common goals.

The success of proximity detection systems in the mining sector hinges on the effective integration of the human factor. “Our commitment to working closely with end-users exemplifies how technology can be seamlessly integrated into complex operational environments, ensuring safety and efficiency through a partnership-driven approach,” Lourens concludes. 

Client Focus

RUBBER LININGS RESIST COARSE PARTICLE ABRASION IN PUMPS

Weir has found that its customers dealing with large particle abrasion in their pumps can save significantly on components and maintenance downtime by using rubber linings.

According to Marnus Koorts, General Manager for Pump Products at Weir, these linings excel in applications where particles are being driven by a great deal of energy.

“Rubber is very good at absorbing and transferring the energy from moving particles , whereas metal liners are more readily worn away by those impacts,” says Koorts. “This makes rubber linings ideal on the larger mill pumps and similar applications, which is where our customers get optimal value from this solution.”

He notes that Weir has spent decades developing its elastomer technology and trialling it in the field, giving it considerable advantage over competitors – many of whom have only recently begun introducing rubber lining on their pumps.

“We have helped customers to deal with some of the most abrasive applications to be found in mining. These conditions are commonly found where hard rock is mined, crushed, and milled, and the coarse particles leave the mill to be pumped further,” he says. “Among our case studies are installations where the pump’s wear life was improved significantly after it was lined with rubber.”

Another benefit of using rubber in these large pumps is that it is relatively lightweight compared to unlined metal pumps, enhancing safety and easing maintenance of rubber parts.

“A mill pump is a mission-critical item of equipment, so maintenance really needs to be as fast and infrequent as possible,” emphasises Koorts. “The whole plant process often comes to a halt when the mill stops if there is no standby pump, what we call a Service Class 5 pump.”

Replacing a rubber lining on a pump can be done quickly, and less often – giving the plant optimal uptime. He points out that this also provides a higher level of safety against the risk of particle wear actually breaking through the shell of the pump. In cases where these incidents have occurred, the high pressure inside the pump can spray slurry up to a couple of hundred metres – presenting considerable safety and environmental hazards.

“Where the rubber lining is present, it is encapsulated by a metal shell for added support,” he says. “Maintenance planning can be enhanced by using Weir’s Synertrex wear monitoring technology, which would alert the operators to the need for parts replacement, avoiding failures.”

He highlights that many of Weir’s pump ranges are available with the option of either rubber or metal liners. This has allowed many customers to easily trial the rubber lined option, as this can be done through a simple swap-in process during the plant’s shutdown period.

“We’ve seen a definite shift in the mining industry towards rubber lining on pumps, as mines recognise their value in these applications,” he concludes. “This is also a time when mining companies are starting to consider their upstream and downstream carbon impact. They can gain from the lower carbon footprint associated with rubber linings compared with steel.”

Client Focus

LEADING GROUT INJECTION PLANT EARNS SAFETY ACCOLADE FOR 20 YEARS INJURY FREE

There are few mining-related operations that have operated for two decades without a lost time injury – but Murray & Roberts Cementation has achieved just that at its grout injection plant between Northam and Thabazimbi in South Africa’s Limpopo province.

The 36 strong team at this grout plant oversees the logistics of mixing on surface, managing over 5 km of pipeline to underground destinations, and injecting grout at the workface to prevent inundation where water is intersected during mine development. Andre van Buuren, Murray & Roberts Cementation Project Manager, highlights the depth of experience that underpins the facility’s safety culture.

“Achieving 20 years without an injury is a real testament to the collective effort of our team, applying our corporate strategies and taking personal accountability for everything that happens on site,” says van Buuren. “It is no coincidence that there is very low staff turnover at this plant – where it is not unusual for our people to have up to 25 years of service.”

The average term of current staff is 10 to 15 years, with Northam injection plant site supervisor Hendry Collins having been with the operation for over 20 years. This has allowed a culture of safety to mature, and to be passed down from the more experienced staff to the newer entrants. Without overloading people with systems and procedures, he explains, everyone is imbued with a commitment to uncompromising safety principles that emphasise personal responsibility. This is expressed in key messages such as “If you see it, you own it” – which hold everyone to an exacting safety standard.

“Everyone is also steeped in the discipline of identifying the highest safety risk in every task they undertake and to ensure that it is mitigated,” he says.

As in any mining environment, this work certainly includes its fair share of risks. The Northam grout injection plant regularly pumps specialised grout mixtures at pressures of up to 10 MPa to underground workings. Over 20 tonnes of cementitious material are commonly injected into designated areas over a three to four day period, according to Murray & Roberts Cementation Senior Project Manager Pieter Oosthuysen. A recent water intersection incident required as much as 56 tonnes to be injected at high pressure to stem the flow of groundwater at a single point.

“A compact surface team oversees the running of the plant, which includes two 100 tonne silos among a range of equipment and backup units,” says Oosthuysen. “Most are part of the underground teams, working in day shifts and night shifts. They follow the mining teams as the mine deepens, extending the grout range to allow injection to be conducted whenever necessary.”

Safety is also a key aspect of the training that injection plant staff receive at the Murray & Roberts Training Academy at Bentley Park near Carletonville. This dedicated training facility includes a mock-up of a grout plant, where the experiential value of the training is enhanced.

Van Buuren highlights the importance of engaging every member of the team in the safety strategies employed, right down to the selection and adoption of protective equipment. In line with regulations and best practice, there is considerable time invested in deciding on even the most appropriate PPE such as boots or glasses to ensure these serve the purpose – before these are rolled out for use.

“This is part of visible leadership, a corporate strategic imperative that provides an example to our younger people,” he explains. “It prevents the ‘old worker’ syndrome where experienced personnel are tempted to take short cuts despite knowing better. Constant reinforcement – including positive recognition – is vital to ensure that complacency never creeps in.”

Louis Neethling, Foreman at the grout plant, emphasises the culture of care which is nurtured within each team – where every member is expected to look after not only themselves but those around them.

“We recognise that promoting safety is rather like sweeping water uphill,” says Neethling. “If you stop sweeping, the water will run back again; it is an ongoing task to ensure safe behaviour, and to find ways of improving safety performance.”

Client Focus

IPR DELIVERS DEPENDABLE DEWATERING SOLUTIONS FOR OPEN PIT MINES

In the challenging environment of open pit mining, efficient water management is crucial to maintaining operations and ensuring the safety and productivity of the site. IPR (Integrated Pump Rental) stands out as a key partner for surface mines, offering customised dewatering solutions designed to meet the specific needs of each site.

Managing director, Lee Vine says by conducting thorough assessments and providing correctly specified equipment, IPR ensures that mines can rely on effective and dependable dewatering systems.

“IPR’s approach begins with a detailed assessment of each individual application. This involves understanding the unique conditions and requirements of the mine such as water volume, pit dimensions and site-specific challenges,” Vine says By doing so, this leading dewatering pump solutions provider can recommend the most appropriate equipment and strategies for dewatering, ensuring optimal performance and cost efficiency.

The backbone of IPR’s dewatering solutions is its extensive range of high-quality dewatering pumps and accessories. This includes the well-known Atlas Copco range of diesel driven and submersible pumps with the company being the Master Distributor across southern Africa for this dependable brand. The company also represents the Toyo range of heavy-duty slurry pumps.

Vine says both pump brands are engineered to handle the demanding conditions of open pit mining, providing robust and reliable performance.

The solution chosen for a specific dewatering project would be dependent on the on-site requirements. As an example, he says that one option would be pontoon-mounted pumps which . allow the pumps to remain operational even as water levels fluctuate. This eliminates the need to frequently relocate the installation as the water level drops, reducing downtime and labour costs.

On the other hand, for mines that require flexibility and mobility, IPR offers skid or trailer mounted dewatering pump sets. These systems can be easily installed at the side of open pits and moved as needed within the mining operation. This mobility ensures that dewatering can be efficiently managed across different areas of the mine, adapting to changing conditions and requirements.

Understanding the financial considerations of mining operations, IPR provides both rental and outright purchase options for its dewatering solutions. Renting dewatering equipment can be an attractive option for mines looking to manage capital expenditure or requiring temporary solutions.

“IPR’s rental services offer mines the flexibility to access the latest technology and equipment without the long term commitment of ownership. However, for mines with ongoing dewatering needs, purchasing equipment outright may be more cost effective in the long run,” Vine says. IPR offers competitive pricing and comprehensive support for purchased equipment, ensuring mines receive the best value for their investment.

IPR’s commitment to its customers extends beyond providing equipment. The company offers comprehensive support services including installation, maintenance and troubleshooting. This ensures that dewatering systems remain operational and effective, minimising downtime and maximising productivity.

“Our expertise in dewatering solutions, combined with our team’s tailored approach to each mining site, makes IPR an invaluable partner for surface mine dewatering projects. By offering a range of reliable equipment, innovative solutions like pontoon mounted pumps and flexible acquisition options, we help mines manage water effectively, ensuring smooth and efficient operations,” Vine concludes.

Client Focus

GROWING INTEREST IN SA FOR STEAM TURBINE SELF-GENERATION

Steam turbines provide a valuable opportunity for many industries in South Africa to self-generate more of their own power requirements – and often from alternative fuels produced as a by-product of their processes.

According to Rudolf van Pype, Steam Turbine Manager Energy Systems at WEG, this technology offers benefits including energy cost reductions, more stable supply of power and a lower carbon footprint.

A leading South African firm taking advantage of these opportunities is Sappi Saiccor. Its mill at Umkomaas in KwaZulu-Natal is one of the world’s largest producers of dissolving pulp for viscose staple fibre – used mainly in the production of textiles but also in other household, industrial and pharmaceutical applications. Gas produced from this process represents a fuel source which generates steam for electricity production.

“A 45 MW extraction backpressure steam turbine from WEG will be adding to Sappi Saiccor’s energy generating capacity at its MgO3 plant,” says van Pype. “The power generated will be used for internal consumption.”

Steam turbine technology is also becoming increasingly versatile, to accommodate the specific requirements of the facilities they serve, he explains. At the Sappi Saiccor mill, for instance, there is the need to have 15 different load points served by the turbine – where in the past it was usual to have just two or three load points.

“It is now possible to provide many more load points – each one with its own inlet steam flow conditions,” he says. “The steam turbine design can cater for a steam flow range that varies considerably. For the new unit at Sappi Saiccor, this range will be from 75 t/h to 300 t/h.”

As the leading manufacturer of steam turbines in Brazil, WEG has supplied a number of units of this turbine model to customers in the market there, he says. The company’s factory in Brazil will design and manufacture the new unit bound for South Africa, and WEG will conduct the installation, commissioning and ongoing maintenance next year. The Sappi Saiccor mill will also use a 50 MVA, 11 kV WEG alternator, which will be coupled to the steam turbine.

Van Pype highlights that there is significant interest in steam turbine technology among South African companies who produce steam as part of their industrial processes – especially those who have alternative fuel sources. He notes that loadshedding has limited the productivity of many firms, who are now looking for longer term solutions.

“We receive regular enquiries from companies who operate boilers for their operations, looking for opportunities to reduce their operating costs while raising their production levels through a more reliable supply of electricity,” he says. “We are able to conduct an assessment of their steam flows and pressures, to advise on the most suitable turbine size and the amount of energy they could generate internally.”

He adds that WEG also has a depth of local expertise and supporting infrastructure to service steam turbines of various makes, and can provide maintenance contracts to give customers peace of mind. In addition to this, WEG offers its customers access to a complete set of spare parts, all of which promote high equipment availability levels.

Client Focus

SPECIALIST MAINTENANCE OF CONVEYORS PAYS DIVIDENDS IN UPTIME

When margins are squeezed by lower commodity prices, mines must secure the productivity and efficiency of key functions like conveyors – and Tru-Trac Rollers can assist in doing just that.

“Turmoil in the mining sector is leading to lay-offs and pressure on capital budgets,” says Guy Fitt, National Sales Manager at Tru-Trac Rollers. “Both these factors can reduce the reliability of conveyor systems, at a time when the mine’s productivity levels can least afford it. As a leading original equipment manufacturer (OEM) in this field, Tru-Trac provides flexible maintenance and support services to solve this dilemma.”

Fitt emphasises that conveyor systems are the life blood of any mine or plant, so it is critical to ensure adequate maintenance or the whole operation’s productivity will suffer. Where mines are under financial pressure, Tru-Trac can step in to take the load off certain personnel, freeing them to focus on other critical areas of the mine.

“We can assume responsibility for a range of tasks from checking and changing idlers to the cleaning of belt scrapers and maintaining belt trackers,” he says. “These are vital to avoid downtime, but can go ignored if mine staff are too thinly spread – with dire consequences for uptime and production.”

Tru-Trac Technical Product Manager Gerhard Strydom notes that mines sometimes even need to do without their usual complement of artisans and assistants during difficult times. The company’s support teams are ideally suited to step in and assist, says Strydom, as they are well trained in general maintenance of conveyor systems while also being familiar with the mining industry.

It is clear that the market recognises the value of Tru-Trac’s support, he points out, as a number of them have been customers for over 12 years. Many of these relationships have evolved into maintenance contracts with a team dedicated to conveyor maintenance on site for a specified time. Fitt explains that the work which these teams perform during these hours, while focused on conveyor maintenance, is not limited to only Tru-Trac’s products, but rather focuses on overall conveyor maintenance, performance and safety.

“The benefit of well trained and experienced conveyor service and maintenance teams ensure that belts are well maintained, and the necessary preventative maintenance work is completed, contributing to our customers’ other related requirements wherever possible,” he says.

As the company’s national footprint has expanded, it has recruited and trained technicians from areas close to the customer base, facilitating the upskilling within local communities. These individuals require comprehensive training to ensure skills and an in-depth knowledge of Tru-Trac products. Training is done either at head office or at the branches.

Tru-Trac’s aim is to improve the efficiency of the customer’s conveyor system, says Strydom, which means giving all aspects of this equipment the attention they deserve. He warns that the conveyors on many mines are only attended to when there is a breakdown.

“While some customers request that we train their staff in equipment maintenance if they have enough personnel, it is increasingly common for mines to keep us on site as the specialist OEM, allowing their artisans to concentrate on core mining activities,” he says.

“The advantage of a maintenance contract is that the mine has the comfort of knowing a specialist is on site, giving this essential system all the necessary attention,” he says. “We conduct regular surveys of belt tonnages, belt speeds and ground conditions, for instance, to check that the trackers and other equipment are performing to our standards.”

It is this ‘extra pair of eyes’ that allows the uptime of conveyor systems to be optimised. Tru-Trac has developed relationships of trust with longstanding customers through its ability to identify issues and bring these to the attention of management. In one instance, the team identified a problem where a customer’s run-of-mine belt was lifting off the structure completely – causing misalignment, loss of product and damage to the belt itself. After reporting the issue, Tru-Trac was able to design, engineer and install a solution to the customer’s satisfaction.

“We have skilled and experienced teams close to customers, who we continuously upskill through our training resources,” says Fitt. “This expertise is available to the mining sector, and has proven to have a marked impact on conveyor uptime and productivity.”

Client Focus

ENGINE AIR FILTER PRE-CLEANERS SAVE COAL MINE ON FILTER COSTS, DOWNTIME

Heavy duty cooling and air conditioning specialist Booyco Engineering has installed the innovative Sy-Klone engine air filter pre-cleaners on two drill rigs at a South African coal mine, allowing the customer to save on the costs of both replacement air filters and operational downtime.

“In dusty mining conditions, engine air filters quickly clog and need replacing,” explains Gordon Postma, Sales Manager at Booyco Engineering. “On this coal mine, the drill rig filters were lasting only two or three days before they needed replacing; the customer really needed a more sustainable and cost effective solution.”

This was provided through the supply and installation of four Sy-Klone Series 9000 engine air filter pre-cleaners – two on each drill rig. This leading technology from the US has been proved over decades, and has been continuously refined and improved.

“The result is that these Sy-Klone engine air filter pre-cleaners can collect and expel 92 to 95% of the ambient dust before it even reaches the engine’s air filter,” says Postma. “The scientific design and robust manufacture of the pre-cleaners – using hard polymer plastics for strength – ensures they need little to no maintenance, and can withstand operating in harsh mining conditions.”

The operating principles of these air pre-cleaners make them remarkably effective, he says. Air enters the underside of the dome design through screened louvers. This prevents any large debris from entering the pre-cleaner which could cause restriction in airflow. Curved particle-accelerator blades push dirt against the sidewall, and strakes – or angled fins – along the interior surface move all heavier-than-air debris towards the ejection slot. This leaves the clean air to continue swirling to the centre of the dome and through to the engine air filter inlet pipe into the engine’s air filter housing through the filter and then into the engine.

“By installing the Sy-Klone engine air filter pre-cleaner, the mine can significantly extend the service life of its engine air filters,” emphasises Postma. “While the savings on the costs of these filters will be important, the real cost to the mine is in drill rig downtime while the filters are changed. The operation will now benefit from better efficiency and productivity due to less maintenance.”

He adds that, by keeping the engine’s air filter cleaner for longer, the pre-cleaner also enhances the performance and fuel efficiency of the engine – as there is less restriction of air moving into the combustion chambers.

“These various benefits add up to a comprehensive solution for the customer, with minimal technical intervention as the pre-cleaners can be readily sized and installed with little disruption to production,” he says.

As a relatively recent addition to Booyco Engineering’s market offering, the Sy-Klone distributorship shows considerable potential in South Africa’s mining sector, as well as in other applications where machinery must operate in high levels of dust. Postma says there is potential for more pre-cleaner installations by this coal mining customer, while a number of other expected installations will soon confirm the product’s efficacy under a range of local conditions.

Client Focus

UNLEASHING THE POWER OF THE ULTIMATE HIGH PERFORMANCE DEWATERING PUMP

Engineered to deliver reliability and efficiency in challenging environment, the next generation Godwin HL270 dewatering pump is now available from Integrated Pump Technology. As a recently appointed Godwin distributor, the company says that this latest model epitomises excellence in the field of fluid handling solutions and addresses the diverse and demanding needs of the African mining industry.

The Godwin HL270 is designed for applications requiring high heads and rapid dewatering, and while being of robust construction features the latest technology ensuring dependable and efficient water management.

One of the standout features of the Godwin HL270 is its powerful performance. The pump boasts an impressive maximum head of 270 metres and a flow rate of up to 200 cubic metres per hour. This capability ensures that even the most extensive and demanding dewatering tasks are handled with ease. The pump’s efficiency translates into reduced operational costs and increased productivity for end-users.

Durability is a hallmark of Godwin diesel-driven pump sets and the HL270 is not an exception. Constructed with high quality materials and designed to withstand the rigours of harsh environments, this pump offers long lasting performance and minimal downtime. The rugged construction and corrosion-resistant components ensure reliable operation in both clean and dirty water applications, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of dewatering needs.

The Godwin HL270 features advanced technology for enhanced performance and ease of use. The pump is equipped with a state-of-the-art control panel, allowing seamless monitoring and operation. The intuitive interface provides real-time data on pump performance, enabling users to make informed decisions and optimise efficiency.

Additionally, the Godwin HL270’s automatic priming system simplifies start-up and operation, reducing the need for manual intervention and ensuring consistent performance.

Environmental sustainability is a key consideration in the design of the Godwin HL270. The pump is engineered for fuel efficiency and low emissions, aligning with both Integrated Pump Technology and Godwin’s commitment to sustainable practices. The HL270’s efficient operation not only reduces fuel consumption but also minimises its environmental footprint, making it an eco-friendly choice for dewatering projects.

As an official Godwin agent in Africa, Integrated Pump Technology is committed to providing above average support to its customers, ensuring they achieve optimal performance and longevity from their dewatering solutions. The company’s team of experienced engineers understand the critical nature of dewatering in mining operations and work closely with its strategic network of distributors to meet all needs.

Client Focus

NEW ENDURON® ORBITAL SCREENS FEATURE ALL-BOLTED CONSTRUCTION FOR LONGER LIFE

Weir, a global leader in innovative mining technology, has launched the all-new ENDURON® Orbital range of vibrating screens which feature an all-bolted construction for longer life. Engineered for sand and aggregate, construction and small tonnage mining operations, the new screens are designed to meet the most demanding of applications.

The all-bolted construction of the screens will significantly improve reliability by eliminating welding in high-stress areas, removing the leading mode of failure in vibrating screens. Locking bolts ensure structural integrity and durability, facilitating easy maintenance with quick replacement of individual components without the need for extensive downtime.

“Weir is excited to bring this revolutionary new screening technology to market. The team has worked hard for the past two years to bring our customers a product that is reliable with the lowest total cost of ownership,” Corné Kleyn, Global Product Manager for Vibrating Screens at Weir says. “Our first screen has been successfully installed and commissioned at a large global customer and we are gaining momentum with more units planned for both the European and North-America markets.”

The ENDURON® Orbital range is available in two screen types: the E series: Elliptical Motion Horizontal Screens and the C series: Circular Motion Inclined Screens. Both screen types are designed with a commitment to innovation and quality, incorporating the latest technologies to deliver exceptional performance in a broad range of sand and aggregate and mining duties.

A wide operating window provides flexibility to adjust screen settings in line with changing applications or feed conditions, without compromising the equipment’s structural integrity and minimising the risk of structural failure related to harmonic resonance.

The modular screen construction ensures that individual components can be easily replaced. Common interchangeable screen parts reduce inventory overflow and simplify maintenance. Both screens are digitally enabled, including our modular exciter technology, which senses and reports on the condition of the exciter. The exciter itself features a bolt-on/bolt-off design, meaning they can be easily changed on site and refurbished in a mechanical workshop.

All ENDURON® products are fully supported by the Weir service network, offering unrivalled service, support and local expertise across the globe. Weir continues to lead the industry in providing cutting-edge, high-performance solutions that are tailored to meet the unique requirements of our customers.