IPCC
New player with a new focus
KOCH Solutions is the new kid on the block in IPCC , but is growing fast and has arguably become a go to company for technologies like bucketwheel excavators and high angle conveyors which are no longer a focus for other players . Paul Moore caught up with Juergen Maier , CEO , for some insights
Q You have recently had some successes in the eastern European coal industry with orders for two new BWEs and two new beltwagon / spreaders for Kolubara , a new beltwagon for Kostolac - do you see a lot of potential for similar equipment going forward both in Europe as well as in other markets globally ? JM : Absolutely , our recent achievements in Eastern Europe highlight our strength in mining solutions . Moreover , the size and complexity of the BWEs we offer reflect our capability to meet the most demanding requirements in mining . With some of the world ’ s largest BWEs in our portfolio , we set industry benchmarks . Coupled with our comprehensive service offerings , which play a crucial role in maximising the uptime and efficiency of these machines , we ensure unparalleled value to our customers . Considering the global initiatives to increase mining efficiency while reducing the ecological footprint , the demand for state-of-the-art , energy-efficient , and environmentally friendly mining equipment and solutions is higher than ever . Our expertise and commitment to innovation put us in an excellent position to lead and benefit from these trends . The future demand for such advanced equipment and service will only continue to grow , presenting a bright outlook for us as we continue to strive to meet the evolving needs of the global mining industry . Additionally , we see potential in continuous mining technology and want to push also the limits of this technology by using the former thyssenkrupp Barracuda technology . With this technology , we might be also able to serve in the future also other commodities than coal . This expansion into new markets and commodities demonstrates our commitment to innovation and our versatility in adapting to meet the needs of a changing global market , further solidifying our position as leaders in the industry .
Q Is it fair to say that very few companies now have the ability to supply these types of large BWE / beltwagon / spreader systems with all the consolidation that has happened in the industry - is this a factor in your success along with the depth of experience within Koch from TK and other predecessor companies ?
Jürgen Maier , CEO KOCH Solutions
JM : Yes , the consolidation within the mining equipment industry has significantly narrowed the field of companies capable of supplying large-scale systems like bucket wheel excavators ( BWEs ), beltwagons , and spreaders . This trend undoubtedly plays a role in our success , setting a landscape where only a few players possess the expertise and capacity to meet such demanding requirements . At KOCH , our ability to deliver these sophisticated systems is deeply rooted in a rich heritage of experience and innovation , significantly enhanced by our acquisitions of technology from ThyssenKrupp ( TK ) and Sandvik Mining . Our distinction in the market is further solidified through strategic moves and the depth of expertise we ' ve inherited , particularly from the former TK team . This wealth of experience has been a pivotal factor in our recent successes and has provided us with a competitive edge that is difficult to replicate . The integration of this expertise is symbolised by the opening of our new office in Essen , which serves not just as a base of operations but as a hub of innovation and excellence in the mining equipment sector . Together with two other German companies , we stand as one of the only Western suppliers capable of delivering such advanced and large-scale mining solutions . This unique position is a testament to our strategic foresight , the synergy of combining strengths from TK and Sandvik Mining , and our commitment to leveraging the profound industry knowledge within our team . Supported by our parent company , Jiangsu Rainbow Heavy Industries Group , we are equipped with enhanced resources and manufacturing capabilities , providing us with a distinct competitive advantage in a consolidating market . Our focus
on innovation , coupled with our dedication to quality and sustainability , ensures that we remain at the forefront of the mining equipment industry . As we continue to navigate the evolving needs of the mining sector , our rich legacy of experience , combined with a forward-looking approach , positions us to lead and excel in delivering high-quality , efficient , and environmentally responsible mining solutions worldwide .
Q Moving to high angle conveyors , a key aspect of your innovative IBEX design is the use of modular drive units - can you explain the concept in more detail from the drives perspective ? JM : The IBEX steep angle conveyor represents a significant leap in our commitment to innovation , especially highlighted by its modular drive units . This pioneering design concept offers unmatched flexibility and efficiency , enabling customisation to meet specific operational requirements . The essence of the IBEX ' s innovation lies in its patented multidrive concept , which strategically distributes driving force across various points of the conveyor system through individually arranged motor units . This approach not only enhances the conveyor ' s adaptability and performance but also revolutionises how power distribution is managed in steep angle conveying systems . From a drives perspective , this patented multidrive concept significantly limits belt tension , allowing for the use of standard equipment such as base belts , pulleys , and gearboxes . This aspect of the design is crucial because it marries highperformance requirements with the reliability and availability of conventional conveying system components , ensuring that the IBEX system remains both cutting-edge and grounded in reliable engineering principles . Moreover , the selection and arrangement of these drive units are meticulously planned to achieve a level of redundancy . This means that the system is designed to maintain operational integrity even with two drives out of operation , ensuring continuous productivity and reducing downtime risks . This feature is particularly valuable in critical applications where uninterrupted operation is paramount . Together with a specially developed belt for the IBEX , these innovations culminate in a system that sets new industry standards for steep angle conveyance .
Q Are you also looking to provide solutions in more hard rock areas of IPCC such as crushing stations , feeders etc ? JM : Yes , we ' re broadening our expertise to
38 International Mining | MAY 2024