First Mining Drc-Zambia July/Aug 2019 First Mining DRC-ZAMBIA July-August 2019 digital | Page 25

materials over conventional alloy
metals, are resistance to corrosion
of the most aggressive chemicals
and high impact resistance. Plastic
systems allow the safe transportation
of a range of industrial fluids and
aggressive chemicals, with no risk
of deterioration and environmental
pollution.
Chlorinated
Polyvinyl
Chloride
(C-PVC) and PPH thermoplastic with
carbon fibres (PP-ATEX materials)
are semi-conductive and compliant
with ATEX specifications for safe
use in hazardous environments and
potentially explosive atmospheres.
This is particularly important in the
mining sector.
“The smooth inner-bore of plastic
pipework ensures that there is no
build-up of limescale, resulting in less
frictional losses and ensures that a
consistent flow rate is maintained
throughout the life of the pipe system.
Unplasticised
PolyVinyl
Chloride
(U-PVC) materials, with excellent
chemical resistance, but low shock
and UV resistance, can withstand
operation in moderate temperatures,
from 0˚C to +60˚C.
“Solvent weld plastic systems are also
easy to install and do not require any
specialist tools or equipment. Quick
installation offers cost savings of up
to 50% when plastic is compared
to steel or copper as alternative
materials. Plastic pipework systems
also require less maintenance, thus
reduced material replacement costs.
Energy consumption is lower due
to a lack of friction when pumping
fluids throughout the piping system.”
A recent SAFi installation in the hydro-
metallurgical sector was at a copper
mine, where thermoplastic valves
provide an efficient solution for the
storage and transport of sulphuric
acid.
The
hydro-metallurgical
process of copper extraction uses
sulphuric acid in large quantities to
dissolve the copper-ore on leaching
heaps.
The trend in the mining sector, to
choose thermoplastic industrial
valves over standard components,
is evident in process applications
that include electrowinning, solvent
extraction and acid plants, as well as
heap and in-situ leaching (ISL).
SAFi thermoplastic valves, with
resistance to the chemical attack of
sulphuric acid, large dimensions and
excellent abrasion resistance, are
ideal for this installation.
BMG specialists recommend SAFi
thermoplastic ball valves for use
in on/off regulation applications in
mining. These thermoplastic ball
valves are maintenance-free and
have the ability to close faster than
conventional valves, also ensuring
extended service life.
BMG’s SAFi range, which conforms
to stringent international quality
specifications, incorporates ball,
butterfly, diaphragm and non-return
valves, as well as strainers and tank
fittings – all manufactured from high-
quality non-corrosive materials.
SAFI’s most commonly used material
- Glass Reinforced Polypropylene
(GRPP) - has excellent mechanical,
chemical and UV resistance, good
dimensional stability and it can be easily
machined and welded. This material can
withstand operation in temperatures
from -10˚C to +100˚C.
Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) is a
highly resistant thermoplastic, with a
smooth surface, which prevents the
development of micro-organisms. This
material, with excellent UV, chemical
and abrasive resistance, offers long-
SAFi’s lightweight thermoplastic materials
are integrated with a robust valve design for
reliable performance, easy installation and low
maintenance, reduced operational costs and
extended service life.
term stability at temperatures from -20˚C
to +120˚C.
Polypropylene (PPH) materials, suitable
for use in marine applications, have
good chemical resistance, particularly
to salts, acids and alkali. Other features
include excellent mechanical and shock
resistance and thermal stability from 0˚C
to +90˚C.
BMG’s
extensive
range
of
components for fluid technology systems
and general industrial applications,
include valves, hydraulic hoses and
fittings, accumulators, cylinders, heat
exchangers, hydraulic motors and
hydraulic plumbing, as well as pumps
and reservoir accessories.
The company’s 24-hour process support
services for production efficiency and
reliability-centred maintenance, ensure
optimum efficiency and increased
service life of every system.
www.fmdrc-Zambia.com
23