Engineering Review Zambia

Be sure to choose the right excavator hammer   Develon SA specialists understand how important the selection of the correct excavator hammer attachments is, to optimise productivity in demolition, construction and mining projects.   “Excavator hammers – also known as hydraulic hammers - are vital attachments that provide powerful impact energy required for efficiently breaking hard materials. There are many types and sizes of excavator hammers available, but not all units conform to the necessary quality specifications and many do not deliver a high level of performance or dependability. Inferior attachments offer unreliable performance, pose safety risks and have a short service life,” says Johann Viljoen - National Sales Manager, Develon South Africa. “Choosing a quality branded excavator hammer, that has been specially developed and professionally verified to enhance the efficiency and safety of every task, is absolutely essential.   “When selecting an excavator hammer, there are several key features to consider. Choosing the correct Everdigm excavator hammer depends on the specific material requirements of the project – whether it is concrete, rock or asphalt. Impact energy is also important - higher impact energy is crucial for breaking through tough materials, which is why users must select hammers that provide the right amount of energy for each specific task.   “Durability is another key factor. We recommend the use of hammers made from high-quality materials designed to withstand harsh working conditions A robust, quality branded hammer will require less maintenance, offer greater safety and ensure a longer lifespan than low quality units.   “It is also important to ensure that the hammer’s weight and size are compatible with the excavator - an incorrectly sized hammer can negatively affect performance. The scale of the project and operating environment can also be a guide in product selection. https://lnkd.in/db7DfznP Develon SA

Get your bearings right   BMG’s Bearings Division offers a comprehensive range of bearings, which comprises ball, roller and linear bearings - ranging in size from miniature to extremely large units. The company’s product offering is enhanced by technical expertise, including bearing selection, condition monitoring, re-classification and repairs, bearing modification, manufacturing of assemblies and bearing and housing interchanges.   “There is a growing trend for companies to move away from manual machine operation to specialised mechanisation. For more than 50 years, BMG has made a substantial investment in expanding our product range to meet specific demand in both standard and highly complex applications, as part of greater precision and cost saving initiatives,” explains Ziyaad Shaik, Business Unit Manager of BMG’s Bearings Division. “The team’s focus on optimising productivity, minimising downtime and reducing operational costs for companies in all sectors, encompasses a total solutions service. By providing the correct components for each specific application, we can improve machine performance, enhance reliability and extend maintenance intervals and service life. Our customised solutions-based approach to engineering reduces the total costs of owning and operating an asset, which translates into maximum return on investment for our customers.   “In 1977, a leading international bearings manufacturer - Nippon Thompson - awarded BMG exclusive distribution rights for the Japanese IKO range in South Africa and more than 47 years later, this partnership is still in place.   “Our range of specialised bearings includes IKO linear motion products, which have been carefully selected for excellent accuracy, smooth linear motion, easy integration, energy saving and environmental protection.   “BMG’s IKO linear motion systems and associated products – which include linear guides, runner blocks, rails, ball screws, bushings and shafts - ensure high speed, high precision performance, to meet the rigorous demands of technologically advanced engineering. These components are suitable for use in diverse applications, including OEMs, the machine tool sector, automotive plants, design houses, packaging, beverage plants, robotics, brick and glass manufacturing, paper, pulp and wood industries, as well as for advanced measuring systems.” https://lnkd.in/dPjUx6xW Bearing Man Group (Pty) Ltd t/a BMG

Advanced, flexible belting enhances efficiencies in agriculture BMG’s Agricultural division has extended its portfolio of belting to include newly launched specialised Gates belting, which is manufactured from advanced materials, designed to enhance performance and durability of farming machinery. These flexible belts ensure minimal downtime, allowing farmers to achieve maximum productivity, even in the most challenging environments. “BMG – the exclusive local participant in the latest Gates Agricultural Belt Programme – is proud to partner with Gates for this important programme, which been developed to meet the rigorous power transmission demands of modern combines, forage harvesters and tractors,” explains Carlo Beukes, Business Development Manager, Agricultural division, BMG. “The Gates Agricultural Belt Programme encompasses a range of durable belts that conform with stringent OEM specifications, ensuring high performance and reliability, which is required for critical harvest seasons and year-round productivity. “Our new Gates EE-TECH Drive-belt range, which is manufactured from advanced ethylene elastomer, offers a 30% longer service life, reduced wear and unmatched stability under intense operational stress in harsh working conditions. These robust belts have a smooth clutching ability and can withstand debris, punctures and slippage. They also offer peak load absorption, are crack resistant operate safely at temperatures up to 130°C.” This range comprises AGRI PowerBand™ V-belts with notable features, including shock load resistance, high-density performance and enhanced durability. These belts are specifically engineered to provide a smooth, stable running pattern and high flexibility that is critical in heavy-duty agricultural applications. https://lnkd.in/db8N2gN2 Bearing Man Group (Pty) Ltd t/a BMG

Dependable belt rip detection saves costs, reduces downtime and prevents injury. Becker Mining has launched the newly developed BRS4.0 belt rip detection system, with advanced features for greater durability, higher efficiency and improved safety. The new Becker BRS4.0 belt rip scanner, which is a replacement system for the BRS-2 system, continuously monitors a belt conveyor for belt rips and uses real-time loop diagnostics to stop the belt in the event of a problem, reducing damage, minimising downtime and preventing injury. “The global operation - Becker Mining Systems – developed its BRS belt rip scanning system decades ago, which has proven to be the most reliable solution to conveyor belt problems. Belt rips can quickly and unexpectedly become a costly problem, leading to extended shutdown times in critical conveyor belt infrastructure,” states Rick Jacobs, Senior General Manager (SGM) for Consumables, Becker Mining South Africa. “The BRS4.0 is the latest generation belt rip scanner with new design features encompassing the latest technologies and advanced materials. “The principal task of this new system remains the same – to detect longitudinal rips on steel cable and fibre conveyor belts as soon as they occur, thus limiting the implicated costs. This highly efficient system provides real-time information that can be accessed locally or remotely. “Advancements of this system over the previous generation include a new user interface and revised data visualisation system. The updated system can be optionally equipped with an RFID reader to detect embedded RFID chips in the belt. An advantage of this design is that the traditional reference coil is not necessary and commissioning is more flexible. “For those applications where the BRS controller is mounted on top of the conveyor framework, the new BRS4.0 system can be accessed via a WiFi interface, allowing full functionality on a mobile device. For additional convenience, an LTE modem allows for remote integration via a cellular network.” https://lnkd.in/dBW8JpbS

Tough machines for tough conditions Criterion Equipment’s -sub-dealer in East London - Buffalo Forklift and Fleet Services – supplies and supports the full range of TCM forklift trucks in the region. These robust machines, with capacities from 2.5 Ton to 20 Ton, are reliable workhorses that ensure high performance and safety in all sectors, including tough industrial applications. According to the Buffalo Forklift, users of TCM forklift trucks are impressed by the versatility, efficiency and low maintenance requirements of these machines. The Buffalo Forklift team is headed by Carl Boshoff, who started his career at Criterion Equipment ’s East London branch, approximately 26 years ago and has a wealth of experience in servicing and maintaining TCM forklift trucks. “Our customers need forklifts that are able to operate safely and efficiently for long periods in harsh conditions and TCM machines consistently measure up to these demands,” says Carl Boshoff, Managing Director, Buffalo Forklift and Fleet Services. “Forklifts are used for many critical applications, including carrying drums of chemicals and raw materials, heavy metal pipes, containers of stock and large engineering components for maintenance. “To ensure high productivity and optimum safety, our team advises every customer on the selection of the correct forklift for specific applications. It is important that machines have the stability to move goods safely around large sites and can also operate safely in tight spaces and on rugged terrain. “We are very impressed with the performance of TCM forklift trucks. These units have been engineered with minimal electronics, which is an advantage, because the likelihood of electronic malfunctions is reduced, operation is easier and there are fewer replacement components. https://lnkd.in/dJAVeu6N

Effective dust control means greater safety, higher productivity and cost savings BLT WORLD, in conjunction with the global ScrapeTec team, plays an important role throughout Africa, by assisting companies during conveyor handling, to effectively manage dust emission and material spillage.   “ScrapeTec’s advanced dust control systems are proving to be highly effective in many industries, including the mining sector – not only for preventing dust formation and reducing material spill, but also to minimise the risk of explosion at critical sections along the conveyor route and transfer points,” explains Ken Mouritzen, BLT WORLD, distributors of ScrapeTec products, which are engineered in Germany to pristine quality and environmental standards. “Apart from the benefit of cost savings and minimal energy consumption, DustScrape and AirScrape dust suppression systems are highly effective in minimising exposure of workers to environmental pollution, which is a major problem caused by fugitive dust in dry bulk handling.   “Our highly experienced specialists offer dependable solutions for specific problems at the transfer points of conveyor systems in many industries, where dust and material spillage are concerns.   “Dust is a major problem associated with conveyor systems in all sectors, particularly where workers have prolonged exposure to the hazards of dust particles. Apart from the negative effects of dust on one’s health - like irritation to the eyes, skin and respiratory tracts, as well as serious lung diseases - some types of dust can also form an explosive mixture with air, which is extremely dangerous. “It is therefore crucial that the correct conveyor skirting is used to offer maximum safety to workers and to minimise deterioration of materials being handled in order to maintain the desired level of quality.”   The BLT WORLD team has installed ScrapeTec’s highly-effective dust suppression systems on many conveyor systems at various plants globally and feedback from customers is positive. https://lnkd.in/dp-WJVkt BLT World

AECOM showcases its digital design capability on Malmesbury Bypass Globally trusted infrastructure consulting firm AECOM has used the latest digital tools to fast-track the final design of the new R45 link between the N7 and R46 at Malmesbury for the Department of Infrastructure in the Western Cape. “The advanced design process commenced in 2022. Our full suite of digital tools played a major role in getting the project up to speed,” explains Nabeel Omar, Technical Director: Highways and Transportation Lead, Western Cape. AECOM deployed a full 3D model to optimise quantities and ensure accurate construction cost estimates, which has rolled over into the project management of the actual construction to ensure what was designed is built accordingly. “The project has the hallmarks of any typical complex engineering project with various interfaces,” comments Danie du Plessis, Technical Director, Highway Geometry. Challenges included the topography, the relocation of fibre and telecoms lines, power transmission lines and pylons, plus the fact that the project crosses the major water source for the town of Malmesbury, which necessitated additional protection measures. The project has been a major testament to AECOM’s digital capabilities. “That is exactly what our client required, as it had a specific budget and timeframe. Given our capacity and expertise to complete such complex works, we were ultimately the consultant selected for the project,” highlights Omar. A critical infrastructure project for the Western Cape, it forms part of a larger 170 km road network between the Port of Saldanha in the West and the N1 and N2 in the East. The so-called Malmesbury Bypass falls under the Strategic Integrated Project 5 of the National Infrastructure Plan 2050, the Saldanha-Northern Cape Development Corridor. The Port of Saldanha was identified as a national growth point in terms of the government’s then adopted infrastructure plan. To support and initiate this growth, both national and provincial governments are making significant investments to expand the port and establish an Industrial Development Zone. The East-West link has long been in the planning stages, with AECOM subsequently working on additional sections, reveals Omar. The N2 is the major route for freight transport between South Africa and Mozambique and the N7 to Namibia. “It is also crucial for the successful operation and capacity of provincial roads in general in the region, as previously freight traffic had to pass directly through Malmesbury, hence the need for the bypass,” says du Plessis. The new Malmesbury Bypass, a 6.7 km Greenfield link, consists of 2 x 3.7 m wide lanes and 2 x 2.4 m surfaced shoulders. It includes two road-over-road underpass bridges, a river bridge, a bridge spanning an environmentally sensitive wetland and an interchange bridge. https://lnkd.in/dXTMc6MT

A successful automation upgrade In 2021, Clover Industries, a leading South African food and beverage group, embarked on a digital transformation and automation upgrade journey to meet essential system technology requirements and evolving demands in its operations. The company set out to redefine its automation roadmap to support its business strategy and objectives. Clover Industries chose Ignition to achieve successful effective enterprise control across multiple sites.  This was motivated by large-scale consolidation projects which were planned at that time and required an overhaul of its existing technology platforms. The journey was complicated by the challenges presented by the pandemic, but a successful solution was achieved and it is proving its capabilities. Working with Element 8 and several system integrator partners, Clover Industries adopted Ignition® by Inductive Automation to tackle its automation requirements. The approach involved establishing new standards and templates across multiple sites to ensure uniformity and efficiency. Ignition was chosen for its flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, enabling Clover to develop reusable templates, provide high-performance user interfaces, and ensure seamless integration with existing systems. The implementation also allowed Clover to run systems on various client devices, improving accessibility and efficiency. The transition began with smaller scale projects, enabling the company to understand what the Ignition Platform could do and to see how it performed. Bigger projects were then implemented progressively, and quite quickly, to full implementation. The transition to Ignition streamlined Clover’s operations significantly, introducing standardised and simpler systems that are easier to manage and scale. Clover also won substantial cost savings and gained enhanced system reliability and improved user experience. The new SCADA platform enables quick response times and reduces the complexity of updates and maintenance, empowering plant operators and integrating real-time data for better decision-making. This transformation has set a solid foundation for Clover’s future growth, enabling an efficient rollout to upgrade or replace legacy systems and creating an environment ripe for further technological innovation. Element8, founded in 2020, is a distributor of Ignition SCADA and IIoT Platform, Sepasoft MES, Canary Historian and Flow Analytics Hub. It works with manufacturers and utilities aiming to ensure a flourishing, data-driven future. For more information visit: https://lnkd.in/dfUT42Th

HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY AFRICA introduces two new product lines HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY AFRICA is expanding its offerings in Southern Africa with the introduction of two new product lines. The launch of its Zaxis -7G series and the BX100 Shinrai-Power backhoe loader is a strategic move to enhance the company's already robust selection of construction machinery, which includes a range of excavators, wheel loaders, and rigid dump trucks, designed to meet the diverse needs of the construction and mining industry. Both these product lines embody Hitachi's dedication to innovation, customer-centric solutions, and environmental stewardship, aiming to meet the evolving demands of the construction industry while prioritising sustainability. According to Riaan Carstens, Director of Sales & Marketing, HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY AFRICA: “We live in an increasingly turbulent economic environment. We believe these new product offerings, with the focus on high productivity and lower Total Cost of Ownership, will allow us to continue helping our customers to remain competitive.” The Zaxis -7G series represents a significant advancement in the evolution of excavators, building upon the strengths of the preceding -5G models. This latest lineup is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of key market sectors, offering a suite of improvements that underscore its commitment to innovation. With a focus on enhanced reliability and durability, the Zaxis -7G excavators are designed to perform consistently under challenging conditions. https://lnkd.in/dCQKchSh

Mozambique’s Gold Production Surges 19% in First Half of 2024 Mozambique’s gold production increased by 19% year-on-year in the first half of 2024, reaching over 917 kilograms, according to official data accessed by Lusa. A report from the Ministry of Economy and Finance, detailing mining production in the first half of the year, revealed that this figure compares to nearly 769 kilograms produced in the same period of 2023. It also represents 58% of the 2024 target of 1,583 kilograms. With each kilogram of gold valued at approximately €73,000 on the international market, Mozambique’s total production in the first half of the year amounts to nearly €66.9 million. Mozambique had already set a record in gold production in 2023, surpassing 1.6 tonnes—exceeding projections for both 2023 and 2024, according to budget execution data previously reported by Lusa. In 2023, the country produced 1,666.4 kilograms of gold, marking a 32% increase from the 1,263.8 kilograms produced in 2022, which was also a record. This achievement represented 124% of the target initially set by the Mozambican government and exceeded the projections for 2024, which anticipate a production of 1,583 kilograms. The 2024 Economic and Social Plan and State Budget (PESOE) documents indicate that the gold production plan aims for a 3% growth compared to 2023 projections. This growth is attributed to “greater control over artisanal mining” and the “positive performance of the country’s producing companies.” The document also highlights the increased focus on Explorator, Lda., especially in collaboration with Mutapa Mining Processing, Lda. Additionally, it notes the resumption of activities by KD Prospero, further contributing to the growth in gold production.