Turnkey lubrication for platinum mine customer

Bearing and seal manufacturer SKF’s South African distributor Bolt & Engineering Distributors (B.E.D.) supplied and fitted System 24 to provide a seamless solution for a platinum mine that was facing lubrication problems on its agitators.

The mine, which is located in South Africa’s North West province, sought a reliable dual solution that would not only ensure that lubrication on its agitators was carried out correctly, but that it was done on time.

“Lubrication is fundamental to high equipment availability and subsequent plant uptime, but just as important as the lubrication itself, is the application of the right amount of lube at the right time,” notes SKF product manager Eddie Martens.

He adds that over-lubrication is both costly and wasteful while under-lubrication can result in equipment failure.

B.E.D. Rustenburg approached SKF to provide a quote for the supply of System 24, including fitment of the units on to agitators. The solution also required the fabrication of specialised mounting brackets, he explains. Recognising the value of System 24 and the potential in realising significant savings from both a time and cost perspective, the mine customer accepted the quote.

The mine has reported that B.E.D. has successfully resolved its lubrication issues, so much so that it has requested further quotes for similar lubrication solutions on other parts of the plant.

“We anticipate that the customer will require further lubrication solutions as the mine continues to expand. Alongside strengthening our relationship with our authorised distributor, going forward, we are also now able to produce the specialised mounting brackets for other projects. Owing to B.E.D. Rustenburg’s outstanding service, we have a very satisfied customer,” concludes Martens.