Filter supplier advancing sustainable mining operations through advanced filtration solutions

A recent webinar, hosted by Creamer Media Webinars on behalf of advanced filter supplier Donaldson, focused on advanced filtration solutions as a means to sustainable mining operations. The discussion included experts in mining filtration solutions with the aim being to reduce downtime and enhance equipment reliability in the mining sector. The webinar blended practical strategies and insights, setting the foundation for sustainable, efficient mining operations.

Donaldson sales director for Africa Cameron Diesel shared an overview of Donaldson’s filtration products and services, underscoring the critical role of air, fuel, lubrication and hydraulic filtration in supporting high-performance mining operations. “As equipment demands increase in harsh mining environments, reliable filtration systems become essential to reducing maintenance frequency and extending equipment life,” he pointed out.

Donaldson territory manager for the sub-Saharan Africa region Paul Pereira addressed specific challenges faced by mining operators, including high filter usage and frequent maintenance requirements. In a case study on Komatsu 860E dump trucks he highlighted that Donaldson’s air filters should be monitored and replaced just before reaching maximum restriction, rather than being changed too early, as Donaldson filters are designed to meet and/or exceed the original equipment manufacturer specifications. This approach extends service intervals and lowers operational costs.

“The trial yielded remarkable results, where service intervals were extended from 500 hours to over 2 800 hours, resulting in substantial savings of approximately $75 000 over five months,” he said.

Pereira attributed these gains to Donaldson’s advanced cellulose media filters, which offer extended lifespans and reduced maintenance costs, proving the value of high-efficiency filtration solutions.

He also presented a detailed analysis of the trial, underscoring the enhanced durability of Donaldson’s cellulose media filters, as well as Donaldson blue high-efficiency filters with superior depth filtration properties.

“In trials on the Komatsu 960E, Donaldson filters sustained performance over 2 800 hours, saving nearly $1 245 per vehicle. Similarly, testing on the Liebherr T284 dump truck demonstrated cost savings through Donaldson’s blue media filters, which collected significantly more dust than traditional cellulose filters.

“These trials underscore the importance of evaluating total cost of ownership rather than just the price of filters, as extended filter life translates into lower maintenance demands and operational costs,” he explained.

Meanwhile, mining and construction equipment distributor AES Group GM Axel Woestyn highlighted the company’s extensive capabilities in providing high-quality filtration solutions, technical support and efficient logistics tailored to mining. A strong partner with Donaldson, AES Group emphasises local content compliance, with facilities across key regions and a newly opened warehouse in the Ivory Coast.

Woestyn also highlighted AES Group’s Vendor Managed Inventory services, which streamline inventory management and supply chains to cater to the specific needs of mining clients, ensuring optimised inventory levels and minimised downtime.

Three-Phase Approach

“Donaldson’s structured approach to filtration solutions is aimed at aligning filtration systems with mining operations. Our three-phase methodology includes validation, implementation and continuous improvement,” noted Diesel.

He explained that validation involved assessing operational conditions, gathering essential data and updating material descriptions to align with the mining environment.

Implementation is the rolling out of custom improvement plans based on equipment assessments, cleanliness reports and targeted filtration enhancements, while continuous improvement is the monitoring of progress and extending service intervals to maintain peak performance and reliability over time.

“This systematic approach demonstrates Donaldson’s commitment to ongoing improvements in filtration technology, ensuring solutions effectively address the rigorous demands of mining,” said Diesel.

Donaldson’s global presence includes $3.4-billion in yearly revenue, 2 800 active patents, and a network spanning over 80 locations worldwide.

“Donaldson’s significant annual research and development investment of about $80-million underscores our dedication to innovation, while our sustainability efforts focus on filtration solutions that reduce environmental impact and support cleaner operations,” he said.

Diesel reaffirmed Donaldson’s commitment to helping customers achieve long-term productivity gains and cost savings, positioning the company as a leader in sustainable, reliable filtration for mining operations.