MATERIALS HANDLING
L Mobile Link Conveyor.
moisture can make some commodities too sticky to handle effectively.” Beyond dust control, the system operates more quietly than conventional truck-based handling while reducing spillage and clean-up requirements. Port authorities observed a marked reduction in dust emissions and operational noise during the first commercial vessel loading campaign. Lastly, miners and key industry players are driving demand for technological integration - the ability to integrate equipment into automated mining systems for programmed stockpiling and automatic safety stops. “On the material-handling side, our equipment is conveyor-based, but these systems can be fully integrated into a customer’s wider mining operation. They incorporate electronic control systems that allow them to communicate with and form part of the overall mine management system. For example, the equipment can be programmed to build specific stockpiles automatically, while the systems can also be linked together to manage start-up sequences across a larger array of equipment. If an issue occurs elsewhere in the mining operation, the equipment can be programmed to stop automatically, helping to improve both safety and operational efficiency.” The same level of integration applies to ship loading. Astec Industries equipment can be incorporated into the customer’s existing systems to monitor tonnages and optimise the loading process, ensuring that the vessel is loaded efficiently and correctly. “From a technology perspective, we’re focused on adapting our equipment and systems to meet the specific requirements of each customer, providing greater automation, control and efficiency across the material-handling process.”
different areas and used for multiple applications, rather than being tied to a fixed location. The same applies to mining operations, where mobile equipment can be relocated as requirements change, allowing customers to work across different areas without the need for permanent infrastructure.” Thirdly, and in line with the mining industry’s focus on zero harm, there is growing demand for dust control and noise reduction measures. “Environmental impact is another increasingly important consideration for customers, both at mine sites and at ports. A good example is the system we recently installed in Namibia, where dust and noise control were major concerns. Previously, the operation relied on the conventional truck-and-skip method, which meant trucks were moving continuously around the port to handle the required tonnages. This generated significant noise and made dust control difficult, particularly because the material was being loaded and unloaded in an open environment. Our enclosed ship-loading system addresses these challenges through integrated dust containment and material- handling technology. The equipment can be fully enclosed, with covers fitted over the conveyors to significantly reduce dust emissions. For certain commodities, we can also incorporate water-spray systems for additional dust suppression, although this is not suitable for every material because adding
28 MODERN MINING www.modernminingmagazine.co.za | OCTOBER 2026
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker