HIGH PROFILE
KOCH Solutions bucketwheel excavator design apart from our competitors on the global market . Key components such as drives , hydraulic systems , electrical gears etc are however supplied by highly reputable European suppliers . These supplies paired with the entire execution and engineering services out of Germany are a clear differentiator to pure Chinese suppliers .
Materials handling moves
In August 2023 , KOCH Solutions completed the acquisition of a range of materials handling related assets that had been deemed non-core by FLSmidth . Paul Moore caught up with KOCH Solutions ’ CEO , Jürgen Maier , and Claus Butter , Technical Director of Mining for more insight into the deal and its wider plans and capabilities
Q KOCH Solutions is already very experienced in materials handling and IPCC in mining - can you give some background as to the company ' s experience to date in this sector whether in terms of projects , studies , or new designs ?
A KOCH has been providing material handling solutions since 1945 , successfully implementing over 1000 projects worldwide . Our expertise is highlighted by innovative developments such as the renowned KOCH Pipe Conveyor , known for its efficiency and environmental friendliness .
Q What does KOCH Solutions bring to the materials handling in mining market in terms of a distinct approach and the industry experience of your staff ? A KOCH has the benefit of knowhow from former employees of thyssenkrupp Fördertechnik and Sandvik Mining Systems and has on the other side the flexibility to be not limited to certain internal or specific suppliers , for instance relating to crushers . KOCH strives to provide every client with the optimum solution combined with an innovative approach on new technologies .
Q Since 2019 the company has ultimately been owned by Jiangsu Rainbow Heavy Industries Group in China - what advantages does this bring in terms of resources , fabrication etc ? A Since the majority share acquisition by Jiangsu Rainbow Heavy Industries Group ( RHM ), we have significantly expanded our global network and enhanced our manufacturing capabilities and shipping facilities , which are of a scale almost exclusively found in China . Our assembly areas alone , where complete machines are preassembled and tested before delivery to customers , cover an area of 700,000 square metres with own ports , which is worldwide a unique setup . This setup allows us to retain and refine our expertise in-house , contrasting sharply with the limitations often associated with outsourced production . Additionally , the fact that some of our competitors also utilise RHM ’ s manufacturing services further amplifies the expertise of our on-site staff , aligning perfectly with our strategic goals and enhancing our competitive edge in the industry . Parallel with our hybrid Chinese and European shareholder structure we unify both ' worlds ' and ultimately strengthen our performance for being the best solution supplier for our esteemed customers .
Q Chinese groups like DHHI , NHI , Creation Materials Handling and TYHI are also active in this market outside of China - is a big differentiator for KOCH that you now have a firm base of experience and assets in both Europe and China that complement each other ? A KOCH Solutions , originally and fundamentally a German company with a significant stake of European ownership , maintains its headquarters and management in Germany . We fully embody the principle of quality and efficiency for our customers . All planning , development , management and service are carried out exclusively from Germany . In addition , we cater to our customers ' wishes for European or domestic production , as we have the necessary expertise and have built up partnerships for these requirements over decades . Our German roots and adherence to strict quality standards set us
Q How important is the turnkey aspect of what you are able to offer the market ? Are you also able to provide a high-quality after-market service ? A We at KOCH Solutions offer more than just turnkey , bespoke overall concepts ; we provide comprehensive customer service with lifecycle commitment . Our clients benefit from an automatic component monitoring system that proactively reminds them about spare part requirements and informs them of upcoming maintenance schedules . This approach ensures that our customers receive timely and efficient service , maximizing the lifespan and efficiency of their equipment . Our commitment to long-term customer satisfaction and support is a cornerstone of our service philosophy , adding significant value to our turnkey solutions .
Q A specific example of your previous / current experience is the IBEX high angle conveying solutions - what was innovative about this and what was the market response ? A The IBEX represents a significant innovation in the field , eliminating the need for entire truck fleets and thereby offering substantial cost savings to our clients . By utilising this system , we enable a more efficient and environmentally friendly operation . The reduction of truck fleets not only saves costs but moreover contributes to an environmentally friendly footprint with zero emissions during operation – plus it also diminishes the need for maintenance facilities and truck logistics management . Furthermore , the IBEX facilitates in-pit crushing , enhancing operational efficiency with a significant OPEX reduction . High angle conveyors have been around for a while , but what sets the IBEX apart is its unparalleled drive concept . This unique feature differentiates it from existing systems and enables capabilities that were previously unachievable . The introduction of the IBEX in the market has been met with enthusiasm , as it offers a groundbreaking approach to material handling and transportation within mining operations , pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible in steep angle conveying .
Q Moving on to your recent acquisition of FLSmidth ' s " non-core " materials handling assets - this was described as a mix of intellectual property , order backlog , employees and facilities . Can you outline in more detail
10 International Mining | JANUARY 2024