Mining industry upgrade: From ageing systems to maximum capacity
September 2025
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Iritron recently undertook a major upgrade in the mining sector, focusing on washing and screening plants, jigs, thickeners, tailings, water systems, conveyors and reclaimers.
The goal was twofold: to upgrade ageing equipment to the latest technologies and to ensure that all systems met current legal and compliance standards. This included significant enhancements to scada and PLC equipment, as well as upgrades to the entire network infrastructure.
The challenge: The biggest hurdle lay in the end user's commitment to replace and upgrade equipment that was still functional but ageing. To address this, the team demonstrated the reliability of modern technologies and showed how downtime risks could be dramatically reduced. Importantly, the upgrades were designed with future expansion already in mind.
The solution: By introducing the latest scada software, PLC equipment and advanced engineering standards and tools, Iritron transformed the operation. The result was not only equipment utilisation at maximum capacity, but also refurbished and compliant systems that now align with legislative requirements.
Looking ahead: If there was one lesson from this project, it would be the value of a phased upgrade approach, ensuring smoother transitions and even less disruption to ongoing production.
Why Iritron: What sets Iritron apart is its role as a comprehensive, end-to-end engineering partner. They don’t just provide technology, they understand the client’s business and challenges, and deliver solutions that combine reliability, compliance and long-term vision.
Iritron Tel +27 12 349 2919 [email protected] www.iritron.co.za
Further reading:
Control system upgrade: Smelting
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Systems Automation & Management recently completed a major control system upgrade in the smelting industry. The project was delivered on budget and achieved a positive ROI for the client.
Read more...
Gottwald drives upgrade: Ports and harbours
Abacus Automation
System Integration & Control Systems Design
In the ports and harbours sector, Abacus Automation completed a significant modernisation of a Gottwald crane, improving both operational reliability and serviceability.
Read more...
Agogo Integrated West Hub Project: FPSO/subsea offshore Angola
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The Agogo Integrated West Hub project represents a historic milestone in the FPSO and subsea industry, achieving first oil offshore of Angola. This project is the first FPSO deployment since ANPG’s establishment in 2019, and the first major project for Azule Energy since 2022.
Read more...
Digital transformation from the edge
DirectLogic Automation
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Edge-enabled PLCs are an accessible and affordable way for most users to collect and create value from use field-sourced data.
Read more...
Powering southern Africa’s industrial evolution for over five decades
Oilpower
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Established in 1974, Oilpower is a recognised name in South Africa’s hydraulic and pneumatic sector. What started as a small, family-run business has matured into a highly structured operation with specialised teams, experienced engineers and a reputation for technical excellence and reliability. Oilpower is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year
Read more...
Metal plant automation upgrade
ABB South Africa
System Integration & Control Systems Design
A combined compressor house (CCH) control system replacement project, undertaken by NJC, an ABB Authorised Value Provider (AVP), has won high praise from client ArcelorMittal.
Read more...
SIs - the channel’s conductors of light
Schneider Electric South Africa
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Today’s original equipment manufacturers are innovators in the truest sense, driving the absolute newest in technological advancement. While they develop advanced and often groundbreaking solutions, it is the system integrators who bring these innovations to life.
Read more...
The state of the SI industry remains strong and is expanding
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The system integration (SI) industry is expanding with the adoption of AI, automation and data sharing, allowing companies to improve operational efficiency and competitiveness across diverse sectors.
Read more...
The symbiotic relationship between OEMs and SIs
Schneider Electric South Africa
Editor's Choice System Integration & Control Systems Design
While businesses tend to turn directly to original equipment manufacturers OEMs or vendors when embarking on IT projects, the role of the SI as a key facilitator and partner cannot be overstated.
Read more...
Flexible and precise dispensing technology
Beckhoff Automation
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The Scheugenpflug ProcessModule axis system forms the basis of Atlas Copco’s dispensing and screwing cells and a flexible integration platform for general contractors and machine builders. Precise process sequences are ensured by TwinCAT CNC and servo drive technology from Beckhoff.
Read more...
printer friendly version