TAILORED BELT TRACKING SOLUTIONS OPTIMISE CONVEYOR EFFICIENCY
• FINANCE
These and the many other insights gained from this research puts on paper the steps and action points needed to enhance the effectiveness of ESD programmes . Edge Growth believes that SMEs play a critical role in shaping the future of Africa in general and South Africa specifically and funding this research represents the starting point for much needed collaboration .
To read the white paper visit https :// www . africanmining . co . za / wp-content / uploads / Enhancing-Enterprise-and-Supplier-Development- Ecosystem-effectiveness-in-South-Africa . pdf
“ This research is a good start to crucial conversations and decisive action within the SME development sector . There has been a lot of impactful work done by corporates , SMEs and business development service providers . Ultimately , what this research indicates is that we can both recognise the achievements made within the ESD space to date , as well as address the ongoing work required to create a sustainable , long-term impact for future generations ,” says Nabeela Vally , head of Business Development at Edge Growth .
“ At Edge Growth , we are honoured to have ignited the spark for this pivotal research to address whether ESD programmes are delivering what policymakers , sponsors and programme recipients require , as well as whether there might be more constructive ways to reach those critical ends . We understand the immense value in creating more job opportunities by bridging the gap between businesses and entrepreneurs , and we want to know what is going on and how we can fix it ,” says Stuart Townsend , a director at Edge Growth . “ We look forward to collaborating more to better catalyse change within the ESD and SME development landscape ”. •
Where corporates recognised the strategic significance of ESD , implementation efforts were broadly and deeply integrated into the core business model , and a long-term view was adopted , ESD was more likely to be effective .
• CRADLE TO GRAVE
TAILORED BELT TRACKING SOLUTIONS OPTIMISE CONVEYOR EFFICIENCY
“ Environmental factors such as dust , moisture and wind as well as the type of belt material - whether it is a steel core or solid woven belt - further influence the choice ,” he explains . “ Additionally , any specific challenges that the customer has experienced with the conveyor system need to be prioritised in the solution .”
Image supplied by Tru-Trac
Tru-Trac ’ s belt trackers effectively resolve misalignment issues , ensuring smooth and reliable conveyor operation .
Effective conveyor belt tracking is essential for maintaining operational efficiency and preventing issues on conveyor belt systems and belt trackers , although seemingly small components , play an important role in maintaining the alignment and smooth operation of conveyor belts .
According to Gerhard Strydom , technical product manager at Tru-Trac , a leading authority in conveyor technology , a one-sizefits-all approach does not apply to belt tracking solutions . Proper specification and installation are critical to achieving the expected performance and longevity .
Strydom explains that key considerations in specifying belt trackers include belt speed , width , tension and tonnage per hour on the loading side . He emphasises the importance of gathering accurate application data to ensure the optimal solution is installed .
Tru-Trac ’ s approach to belt tracking involves comprehensive assessment , preferably on-site , starting from the tail section of the conveyor . This method allows the company ’ s in-house specialists or trained distribution partners to gather operational data and understand historical challenges directly from belt attendants . " We prefer to base our assessment on an on-site walking inspection of the conveyor ," Strydom says . This meticulous approach ensures that the trackers are tailored to the specific conditions and requirements of each conveyor system .
Tru-Trac offers a wide range of belt trackers , from entry-level units for the troughing or return side of conveyors to heavy duty applications capable of handling belt speeds up to 10 metres per second . The success of their design and technology has been proven across various industrial applications .
For instance , a South African platinum operation facing significant spillage and belt edge damage due to severe misalignment benefited immensely from Tru-Trac ’ s expertise . The installation of a Tru-Trac taper trough tracker after the loading zone and a dual return tracker before the tail pulley resolved the alignment issues , allowing the belt to operate for almost four years before requiring replacement .
A recent project at a prominent copper mine in Zambia demonstrated how changing conditions can affect the suitability and lifespan of a specified belt tracker . Ian King , Africa sales manager at Tru-Trac , recounts the challenges faced when the conveyor system experienced severe mistracking issues in the loading zone after production levels were increased without notification .
34 • African Mining • February 2025 www . africanmining . co . za