In many mining and industrial plants, transfer points are the unsung heroes of materials handling; quietly facilitating the continuous flow of product through the process. Yet, too often, these critical chute systems are overlooked when it comes to routine maintenance, leading to premature wear, unplanned downtime and costly replacements, says chute manufacturer Weba Chute Systems MD Mark Baller.

He notes that the long-term efficiency and reliability of a materials handling system hinges on the consistent upkeep of its chute systems. When left unchecked, even minor issues at the transfer point can escalate, damaging equipment, compromising throughput and raising the overall total cost of ownership.

“Transfer chutes experience high levels of impact, abrasion and wear, making them particularly vulnerable if not properly maintained. Unfortunately, many operations don’t allocate sufficient resources to monitor the condition of their chutes, and this is where the cost spiral begins,” says Baller.

To support mines and plants that lack dedicated chute maintenance teams, Weba Chute Systems offers a comprehensive solution. This begins with a detailed on-site audit to assess the current condition of the chute systems and identify areas of concern. From there, the company provides a report outlining what is required to restore each chute to optimal operating condition. Once this has been achieved, a proactive maintenance programme is implemented to ensure the systems remain in “top form”.

This service-driven approach not only ensures the longevity of the chute systems but also contributes to improved plant performance and reduced operational costs.

“By maintaining the chutes correctly, customers can significantly extend the wear life of their materials handling systems and avoid the capital outlay associated with repeated replacements. It's a cost-effective, sustainable strategy that supports better planning and minimises unexpected breakdowns,” Baller notes.

Weba Chute Systems’ maintenance programmes are tailored to the specific conditions and wear patterns of each site, ensuring that potential issues are identified early and addressed timeously. “This approach delivers long-term savings and operational peace of mind.”

With Weba Chute Systems' support, mines and plants can ensure that their materials handling infrastructure continues to deliver – reliably and cost effectively.

“In today’s competitive mining and processing environments, where uptime and efficiency are paramount, overlooking the maintenance of chute systems is no longer an option,” Baller concludes.