Mechanical Technology — May 2013
23
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Materials handling and logistics
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J
ohann Smit, chief sales officer,
Becker Mining South Africa, says
the company’s commitment to
providing a critical service to
the mines and general industry encom-
passes the design and manufacture of
products and systems, using the latest
technology.
“A specialised consulting, training
and support facility ensures optimum
efficiency of a wide range of equip-
ment and total safety for workers
underground,” says Smit. “Mine safety
is significantly enhanced by the imple-
mentation of one or a combination of
Becker’s specialised multi-technological
solutions.
“Becker steel arch support systems
are designed for use in friable ground in
tunnel applications, including haulages,
incline shaft portals and special shafts.
These mine support systems are critical
for the safety of any mining or tunnel-
ling project and we expect sales growth
to remain positive, as long as mines
expand and new operations are opened.
“Becker Mining South Africa spe-
cialises in the manufacture of steel
arch supports, but the company’s
German and Polish subsidiaries also
manufacture long wall coal mining
shield support systems for European,
Asian and North American coal mines.
South Africa’s strata conditions are not
suitable for long wall mining, which is
why the company only manufactures
steel arch supports.
“The Becker steel arch support
system finds application in all types
of mining due to the adaptability of
the design which fits into any shape of
excavation. This engineered structure is
timeless because of the characteristics
Becker steel arch support systems are designed for
use in friable ground in tunnel applications, including
haulages, incline shaft portals and special shafts.
The Becker steel arch support system finds application in all
types of mining due to the adaptability of the design which fits
into any shape of excavation.
Enhancing mine safety
with specialised technological solutions
Becker Mining South Africa plays a key role in ensuring optimum
quality, performance and safety standards in the local mining sector.
of the steel used and the mechanical
properties derived from the shape of
the elements of the roof support system.
More and more applications for these
well engineered and adaptable systems
are being developed for customers who
require long term stand-up sup-
port solutions for friable ground
conditions.”
Local applications for these
steel arch support systems in-
clude gold and platinummines,
as well as underground civil en-
gineering projects such as the
Gautrain. Becker’s roof sup-
port systems have also been
exported recently into Austral-
asian and African mines, with
Zambia being a key user.
Becker Mining South Af-
rica also provides specialised
training to customers for the
assembly and installation of
steel arch support sets.
The company’s specialist manu-
facturing operation at the Chamdor
factory in Krugersdorp is committed
to the most stringent quality control
procedures during production. These
standards conform to the expectations
and demands of the global mining
industry, including ISO 9001:2008
specifications. Rigorous tests, which
include the chemical and mechanical
verification of materials, are performed
throughout every production process.
This production line is capable of
moving 250 t of TH profile a month. The
factory is equipped with four bending
presses, one of which is semi-automat-
ic. All arch sets are pre-assembled and
inspected prior to delivery.
The local operation benefits from
Becker’s on-going research and de-
velopment programme locally and
in Germany. Close international ties
guarantee the edge on product design,
impeccable manufacturing standards,
cost efficiency, safety and reliability of
equipment.
Becker Mining South Africa extensive
product portfolio, which complies with
government mining regulations and
mining house specifications, includes
shaft safety components, underground
and tunnel supports, transport sys-
tems and communication and collision
avoidance systems. The range also
encompasses pumps, electrical and
electronics systems, mechanical equip-
ment, as well as lifting and maintenance
equipment.
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