Other technologies


Theft-proof couplers

4th Quarter 2018 Other technologies

Couplers facilitate the connection of electrical cables to mobile mining equipment. Given that they are traditionally manufactured from brass, leaded gun metal or stainless steel, the extremely high weight-to-value ratio of these critical components presents a substantial theft risk. The cost of replacing stolen couplers is often further exacerbated by subsequent downtime and production losses. Proof Engineering has pioneered the ProAlloy zinc coupler. This revolutionary unit presents a three-in-one solution for industry: reduced theft risk, lighter weight and lower cost.

Instead of the traditional materials, the ProAlloy is manufactured from a zinc, copper and aluminium mix which holds no resale value. The aluminium contaminates the mix, significantly decreasing the value and it cannot be sold for scrap. The patented non-theft ProAlloy material not only also makes the coupler 33% lighter in weight, but also presents a more affordable alternative.

The ProAlloy coupler demonstrates material integrity, retains its machinability and remains completely malleable. Stringent corrosion tests conducted by Mintek showed that there is no corrosion affect. Marks adds that the addition of a newly developed additive has improved the metal strength of the coupler even further.

The ProAlloy couplers have been successfully tried and field tested by a number of blue chip mining houses. This has led to the manufacture of ProAlloy plugs and sockets that provide end users with the same benefits as the ProAlloy couplers. “The material may also have potential applications in components other than electrical couplers, such as switches, housings and flameproof glands,” concludes Marks.

For more information contact Donovan Marks, Proof Engineering, +27 11 824 1146, [email protected], www.proofeng.co.za





Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Next-generation motor management solution
Schneider Electric South Africa News & events Other technologies
Schneider Electric has launched its TeSys Tera motor management solution in the West African market, combining advanced motor protection, digital connectivity and real-time diagnostics for manufacturing, mining and water applications.

Read more...
From concept to execution, unlocking renewable energy
Other technologies
Businesses already understand the benefits of renewable energy, however, as renewable energy solutions become more sophisticated, successful implementation requires a structured decision-making process that aligns technology choices with business objectives.

Read more...
Smarter, more secure electricity networks
Other technologies
As South Africa accelerates the rollout of smart prepaid electricity metering, innovative enclosure technology from PPS is helping utilities improve network security, reduce electricity theft and protect critical electrical infrastructure.

Read more...
Siemens launches SIMATIC AX WinCC Unified Elements
Pneumatic systems & components Other technologies
New engineering tool speeds automation application development, reducing the time required to bring industrial projects to market and empowering automation engineers to build, manage version control, and deploy visualisation engineering projects

Read more...
Decoupling software from hardware for future-proofed process automation
Schneider Electric South Africa Other technologies
Legacy systems continue to perform admirably; the dilemma is that systems like PLCs, DCS (distributed control systems), SCADA and field devices were designed for deterministic, long-term operations.

Read more...
Duplex worm gears for precision backlash adjustment
Other technologies
KHK USA has introduced duplex worm gears that allow precise backlash adjustment through simple axial movement of the worm shaft, eliminating the need for gearbox housing alterations during assembly or maintenance.

Read more...
Corrosion solution for engine hot testing
Other technologies
Engine internals are at risk for corrosion from water used during hot engine testing and fill and flush activities. Corrosion affects the engine’s like-new appearance and threatens its integrity.

Read more...
Hygienic ultrasonic flow sensor
ifm - South Africa Other technologies
The SU Puresonic Hygienic ultrasonic sensor from ifm detects flows of conductive and non-conductive media with high precision.

Read more...
Fault analysis for lifting equipment
Other technologies
Ensuring the sustained performance of capital equipment such as crane rails, ropes, hoist rails, gantry rails, and runway beams, which guide lifting equipment and support heavy loads, is essential for safety, reliability, and efficient operation.

Read more...
Bringing true mobile welding capability to SA agriculture
Other technologies
Bolt and Engineering Distributors has launched the new Fronius Ignis Battery. This is a next-generation, battery-powered welding system engineered for mobility, reliability and performance in off-grid agricultural environments.

Read more...









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.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved