According to SEW-Eurodrive general manager for sales and engineering, Conrad Pilger, the company’s range of industrial gear units has been well received by the local coal industry, particularly among conveying, stacker reclaimer and cooling tower applications.
“Having achieved substantial success in the platinum industry between 2005 and 2010, we made the decision to move into coal. To date, the SEW-Eurodrive range of XP Series industrial planetary gear units and X Series helical and helical-bevel gear units have proven popular in two of the largest coal mines in South Africa,” he explains.
Pilger highlights the fact that the number of gear stages and individual gear ratios of the planetary gear units can be adapted to specific application flexibly, while a direct connection to a primary gear unit of SEW’s modular system is possible at any time.
With regards to the X Series helical and helical-bevel gear units, Pilger states that the robust range can be adjusted optimally to the task, due to finely stepped torque ratings. The universal modular system concept sets new standards with respect to availability and offers a broad range of options.
“The main area of application for the X Series is conveyor systems,” says Pilger. “In this context, the gear units perform a reliable service in driving conveyor belts and for transportation of the coal. They also run the travel and hoist drive on cranes.” He points out that the South African branch of SEW-Eurodrive boasts a dedicated engineering department that assists customers with the complete drive package and custom designed solutions. “SEW-Eurodrive compiles drive packages for the customer that include components such as; industrial gear units, motor, couplings, brakes and base plates. Customers benefit from the fact that they can obtain the complete and fully assembled drive package from a single source, while a large local stockholding allows for shorter delivery times and increased flexibility.”
Looking ahead, Pilger notes that he is optimistic about the future in the African coal sector. “Although labour unrest has severely impacted some mining sectors in South Africa, coal remains a lucrative market where we are only just beginning to scratch the surface. With this in mind, I am confident that we can expand our reach not only in South Africa, but also in developing markets that include Angola, Mozambique, Ghana, Zambia and the DRC.”
Mining sector turns to private renewables
News
As the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism enters its permanent phase and global buyers tighten emissions disclosure requirements, South African mining operations are accelerating the integration of privately contracted renewable power into their energy mix.
Read more...Appointment Beckhoff Automation
News
Beckhoff Automation has appointed Luzuko Bulembu as technical support engineer.
Read more...From the editor's desk: You could be doing what? Technews Publishing (SA Instrumentation & Control)
News
Humanoid robots are increasingly featuring in the news. Some of them are a bit creepy, some make you anxious because they might take your job, but others are a lot of fun, and they’re getting better ...
Read more...Jendamark catalyst shrinking technology leverages SEW-EURODRIVE precision SEW-EURODRIVE
Editor's Choice Motion Control & Drives
[Sponsored] Innovative technology for shrinking catalytic converters, designed and built in South Africa by Jendamark Automation for the global market, relies on the precision of SEW-EURODRIVE’s highly dynamic servo-geared units and software.
Read more...Experience ICRA 2026 right here in Gqeberha, South Africa
News
The IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA) is the largest robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, and manufacturing conference in the world. You can experience the premier keynote and plenary presentations in Gqeberha.
Read more...Elevating artisanal skills is key to revitalising South Africa’s economy ACTOM Electrical Machines
News
We need to challenge the stigma attached to artisanal and technical careers, and we also need a mindset shift supported by the schooling system so that young people understand future career pathways, choose subjects accordingly, and recognise that artisanal and technical skills carry equal value in a modern economy.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.