Modern Mining December 2017

BULK MATERIALS HANDLING

feature Scientific approach to chute design lowers end-user costs Germiston-based Weba Chute Systems says that its scientific approach to the design and engineering of transfer chutes has made it a leader in its field, saving customers millions in plant efficiencies, longer equipment life and easier maintenance.

W eba Chute Systems Manag- ing Director Mark Baller points out that the com- pany invests thousands of research hours into under- standing the dynamics of bulk materials han- dling at transfer points. “Employing sophis- ticated 3D computer software for our system designs, we follow this up with quality manu- facture in our ISO 9001:2015 accredited facil- ity. However, this capacity is only as valuable as the data that we get from our customers – so a close working relationship is a vital corner- stone for a successful outcome.” Baller therefore emphasises that each proj- ect begins with a hands-on approach adopted by the engineering team, who together are able to leverage many years of field experience. During a site visit at the start of the process, the team identifies transfer issues and collaborates closely with the customer to develop a tailor- made solution. “Cost factors are front-of-mind for all stake- holders in the mining sector, so we have to ensure a solution that will increase the return on investment within as short a period as pos- sible,” he says. It is also insufficient to view the design of transfer chutes in isolation from the broader working environment. Taking a systems approach to bulk solids handling design is essential to ensure operational characteristics are matched throughout the plant. This is a prerequisite to ensuring smooth materials flow through the entire plant.

The Weba Chute Systems teams have extensive in-field experience and are able to provide fit-for-application transfer point solutions.

30  MODERN MINING  December 2017