Traditionally, mining operations replace or repair chutes only after failure, resulting in unplanned downtime and higher costs. However, new advancements in digital technologies enable the monitoring of equipment and processes in real time, enabling mines to identify and resolve potential issues before they escalate.

Weba Chute Systems MD Mark Baller notes that these technological advancements are paving the way for a transition from reactive to proactive maintenance.

“This is certainly the direction in which transfer point technology is evolving,” says Baller. “Mining operations are increasingly leveraging data to prevent unplanned downtime and optimise equipment performance.”

He explains that the value of data begins with building a historical record of equipment condition and performance, enabling more accurate maintenance predictions. To support this, Weba Chute Systems has developed an inspection app that allows clients to monitor chute performance remotely. The app is designed to simplify data collection and storage, enabling Weba to analyse trends and provide customers with informed maintenance recommendations.

“With remote monitoring, we can identify trends and build a predictive maintenance model, allowing customers to schedule maintenance more efficiently,” Baller explains.

He emphasises that an improved maintenance strategy not only increases operational uptime but also extends equipment lifespan. This reduces capital expenditure and minimises steel wastage while maximising a customer’s return on investment in the chute. Enhanced predictability also streamlines the supply chain, allowing both the original-equipment manufacturer and the customer to anticipate spare parts requirements in advance.

Another key advancement for Weba Chute Systems is the move towards standardising chute components. While the company provides custom-built transfer chute solutions, it has also been developing standardised components that can be used across multiple chute installations. This approach aims to enhance efficiency, reduce lead times and streamline maintenance.

“Previously, every chute required custom components, forcing clients to keep a variety of different parts in stock,” Baller explains. “Now, we are shifting towards more standardised components, enabling clients to streamline their stockholding while still maintaining the flexibility to meet their maintenance requirements efficiently.”

The company highlights its designs that help optimise material flow while minimising turbulence, reducing dust generation. Baller notes that the cost of installing and maintaining a dust extraction system can be significant and if the chute design itself generates excessive dust, the system may not be very effective.

“Our chutes have demonstrated that a well-engineered design can eliminate the need for a separate dust extraction system, helping customers avoid unnecessary expenditure,” he asserts.