The most widely-used hydrodynamic power transmission technology in modern platinum mining is fluid couplings. Voith’s high-quality range of hydrodynamic technology-based power transmission solutions are available to this sector at a considerably reduced cost.
This follows Voith having successfully achieved cost optimisation on a global scale following a year-long focus on internal optimisation processes, such as commercial manufacturing, business costs and rationalisation.
According to Voith South Africa area sales manager, Gary Allison, “There has been absolutely no compromise on quality in terms of materials, processes and manufacturing. Instead, we used advanced algorithms to determine where smaller components could be used to lower costs, without affecting performance”.
The hydrodynamic principle of a fluid coupling makes it easy to gently accelerate driven machines. Fluid couplings limit torque, provide load sharing, and dampen torsional vibrations. This protects the drive system from damage even under extreme operating conditions, while reducing downtime and ensuring an uninterrupted production process.
“Our drive solutions are reliable and specifically tailored to each drive system, from individual couplings to complete driveline solutions. The transmittable power ranges from 300 W to 6 MW, making our fluid couplings ideally-suited to the platinum sector,” says Allison.
Despite a sluggish market, Allison is optimistic that Voith can achieve long-term growth in the platinum sector. “Projects are limited, as no new mines or shafts being built currently. This is globally-driven owing to commodity prices. Companies have to optimise their resources to stay afloat and this is where our cost advantage plays a major role.”
What also sets Voith apart from the competition is its aftermarket service. “In tough times, operations need to be able to rely on suppliers who provide full back-up and on-site product support when required. This forms part of our value-added service offering, which is a major driver in maintaining contracts, while winning new ones when markets turn,” Allison concludes.
Voith Turbo, a Group Division of Voith GmbH, is a specialist in intelligent drive solutions. Customers from highly diverse industries such as oil and gas, energy, mining and metal processing, ship technology, rail and commercial vehicles rely on advanced technologies from Voith Turbo.
