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Fake parts could undermine OEM equipment. (Image source: Metso)

Fake or counterfeit parts in essential mining equipment could result in potentially catastrophic consequences, according to one South African expert

The proliferation of non-OEM, fake or counterfeit parts for crushers and screens has created the perception in some procurement departments that short-term savings can be achieved without risk to customers or equipment, said Francois Marais, sales and marketing director at Metso distributor Pilot Crushtec.

This is simply not the case, he said, as every ‘saving’ on an inferior part is likely to cause extra expenditure – if not catastrophic results – at a later stage.

“Fake parts will compromise worker safety, as there are normally a number of people in close proximity to this equipment who could be affected by a failure,” he said.

“A business that buys and fits pirate parts runs the risk of sending a negative message to its operators – that saving money is more important than the safety of crews on site.”

Marais said genuine parts for crushers and screens are an essential part of the promise that OEMs make to the market to keep their customers’ projects profitable and their businesses sustainable.

“OEMs like Metso spend decades developing and supporting technologies that provide customers with reliable and high performance solutions for crushing and screening,” he said.

“However, this work is quickly undone when non-OEM parts are installed in our equipment, supposedly to save a few rand in maintenance costs.”

He said the performance of Metso’s high-tech equipment is based on its design and engineering – which includes various components and wear parts that must be replaced from time to time.

Copied parts from other sources do not carry this technical heritage, and simply undermine performance and reliability, he noted.

It also erodes the value of the relationship that OEMs work hard to build with customers, according to Merja Tyyni, vice president aftermarket distribution management, Metso.

“Our customer relationships focus on the whole process of delivering value to their operations,” said Tyyni.

“We pay attention to the end-product value, where we can supply not only the appropriate capital equipment, but also the follow-up trouble-shooting, repairs and overall technical advice.”

The quality of these solutions and services is based on years of research, development and testing, as well as continuous investment in the necessary technical infrastructure and capability to respond quickly to customer needs.

However, these efforts are compromised when customers place non-OEM parts into their machines as the quality chain is only as strong as its weakest link, noted Karima Dargaud, head of aftermarket Europe, Middle East, Africa and Central Asia, Metso.

“Our OEM spares are an essential aspect of the support we provide, so customers can reliably meet their production targets and avoid costly penalties,” said Dargaud.

“Customers build their reputations on this consistent performance, by producing the right results safely, on time and within budget. Using non-OEM spares only puts this reputation at risk, as machines then become unreliable.”

Manufacturing the Southern Coastal CV1 discharge chute at Weba Chute Systems' Wadeville factory (IMAGE SOURCE: Weba Chute Systems)

Weba Chute Systems has appointed Toolquip Namibia as its official agent, strengthening its presence in Africa and enhancing service delivery to the Namibian mining and industrial sectors

The move forms part of the company’s strategy to strengthen its footprint across Africa.

The tie-up with Toolquip will enhance its ability to serve the Namibian mining and industrial sectors by ensuring faster, more responsive access and after-market support.

Based in Swakopmund and part of the international Gruposilgest Group, Toolquip was selected following a rigorous process to ensure alignment in technical expertise, market reach and quality standards, Weba Chute Systems said in a statement.

“We are recognised for our innovative approach to chute design, improving throughput and operational safety, and this is underpinned by our focus on high levels of customer support,” said Edward Cruickshank, business development manager, Weba Chute Systems.

“By appointing an agent in Namibia, we are reinforcing our commitment to provide high-quality service and technical support where our customers operate. A local partner allows for faster response times, more effective site assessments and quicker implementation of engineered solutions.”

Prior to this appointment, Weba Chute Systems supported its Namibian customers directly.

This approach saw the company successfully install several transfer point solutions at Namdeb’s Southern Coastal Plant 3.

These included the CV1 Head Chute, the Tripper Car Discharge Chute, and the CV09 Split to Two Screens Chute — each replacing outdated problem-prone chutes that had suffered from frequent blockages, high wear and limited maintenance access.

Using advanced engineering technologies such as Discrete Element Modelling (DEM), Weba Chute Systems delivered fully engineered solutions that eliminated these issues and continue to operate reliably since commissioning.

“With Toolquip Namibia now acting as our local agent, customers in the region will benefit from significantly improved access to technical support, spare parts and maintenance services,” said Cruickshank.

“We are providing Toolquip with extensive training on our technologies and chute design philosophy, ensuring their team is fully equipped to support our customers effectively.”

The partnership is also expected to create new opportunities beyond Namibia.

With Toolquip’s existing operations in Mauritania and Zambia, Weba Chute Systems anticipates further expansion into these regions, building on its new partner’s local market knowledge and network.

Read more: 

Strategies for growth and stability in Namibia's mining sector

NGX explores uranium opportunities in Namibia

Potential to expand underground production at Namibia's Otjikoto mine

Weba commissions new discharge chutes

the AMXE160 expands ABB’s motor capabilities with configurations ranging from 30kW to over 600kW, ensuring high power density and operational efficiency. (Image source: ABB)

Global electrification and automation pioneer ABB will spotlight its latest innovations at bauma 2025—the premier international trade fair for construction and mining machinery—taking place from 7–13 April in Munich, Germany

With a 140-year legacy, ABB continues to drive sustainable transformation in mining and construction, offering technologies that advance safety, energy efficiency, and productivity. At Booth 413 in Hall C2, attendees can explore how ABB is revolutionising operations through cutting-edge electric and automated solutions.

Efficiency meets innovation 

A key highlight of the show will be ABB’s unveiling of a suite of products aimed at supporting the shift to electric and hybrid heavy-duty vehicles. These systems are engineered for both newly built fleets and retrofit applications, including:

  • HES580 mobile inverter: Marking a world-first, this 3-level inverter reduces harmonic losses by up to 75%, boosting motor efficiency and extending equipment life by minimising stress on winding systems.

  • Pro battery series: These advanced traction batteries for electric heavy vehicles are compact, lightweight, and built for safety and long service life.

  • AMXE160 motor: The newest addition to the AMXE portfolio, the AMXE160 expands ABB’s motor capabilities with configurations ranging from 30kW to over 600kW, ensuring high power density and operational efficiency.

ABB will also showcase solutions for improving energy efficiency off-vehicle. These include:

  • ACS880LC multidrive: A liquid-cooled drive cabinet designed for harsh conditions to ensure dependable operation.

  • ACS8080 MV drive: ABB’s newest air-cooled medium-voltage drive, offering top-tier reliability, flexibility, and performance.

Beyond drives and motors, ABB will present a wide range of automation and electrification technologies, such as its eMine portfolio, B&R systems, and updated Harnessflex conduit solutions.

  • Harnessflex EVO metallic conduit: Designed for electric vehicle systems in mining and construction, this flexible steel conduit meets stringent fire safety requirements. It protects key components such as Power Distribution Units, Motor Control Units, E-Axles, and High Voltage Battery Packs. It is part of the expanded EVO family, which includes the industry’s first EV connector backshells and robust nylon conduits.

ABB’s mission is to shape a more energy-efficient and sustainable world. By fusing engineering expertise with digital innovation, the company helps industries achieve peak performance while advancing decarbonisation. As ABB describes it: “Engineered to Outrun.”

With over 105,000 employees and operations in 100+ countries, ABB is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB).

Simplified map showing the extent of the Central African Copperbelt (yellow band) and the Zambian ‘Basement Domes’ region (in pink), overlaid with exploration licences held by Ivanhoe Mines in the DRC, Zambia, and Angola. (Image source: Ivanhoe Mines)

Ivanhoe Mines has secured a significant package of new exploration licences from the government of the Republic of Zambia, covering 7,757 sq km in the North-Western Province—an area believed to be a continuation of the Central African Copperbelt

This development stems from a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on 10 September 2024 between Ivanhoe Mines and Zambia’s Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, which has since aided Ivanhoe in identifying prospective licences and shared geological survey data.

Strategically located between Ivanhoe’s Western Forelands Project in the DRC and its Angolan licence package, the Zambian licences are more than three times the size of the Western Forelands area. Ivanhoe plans to explore for various mineralisation systems, including Basement Domes, sediment-hosted copper, and iron-oxide-copper-gold (IOCG) deposits, supported by geological evidence suggesting the extension of copper-rich Nguba Group sediments into Zambia.

Copper exploration expands

In parallel, Ivanhoe is continuing its US$50mn exploration program in the Western Forelands. The 2025 campaign will involve 102,000 metres of diamond drilling and 18,000 metres of RC drilling, with an updated Mineral Resource Estimate for Makoko, Kitoko and Makoko West expected soon.

The president of the Republic of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, commented, “Today, we welcome Ivanhoe Mines’ new chapter into Zambia’s mining industry -one that promises jobs, growth, and prosperity for our people. This new investment in copper exploration is not only about achieving our government’s vision of over 3 million tonnes of copper production by 2031, it’s also about unlocking opportunities, empowering communities, and ensuring that our resources benefit every Zambian. Together, we will build an economy that works for all, with transparency, fairness, and a shared vision for the future.”

Ivanhoe Mines' co-chairman, Robert Friedland, added, “Our entrance into Zambia marks an exciting new chapter in Ivanhoe Mines’ commitment to expanding our exploration footprint and testing the extent of the Central African Copperbelt… We believe there are plenty of new tier-one copper discoveries yet to be found under shallow Kalahari sands.”

The Zambian licence area—previously surveyed by BHP in the 2000s—has been largely unexplored since 2015. A new airborne geophysical survey by Zambia’s Ministry of Mines is currently underway, saving Ivanhoe months of data acquisition work.

Exploration activities are set to begin in Q2 2025. Ivanhoe will first conduct environmental baseline studies and community engagement, followed by detailed geophysical and geochemical work. These will map the vast area and guide future diamond drilling.

“We are particularly encouraged by the proactive support and collaborative approach demonstrated by the Zambian government… This includes a key role of partnership that Zambia is playing in terms of improving the regional hydroelectric power supply and distribution,” concluded Friedland.

Ivanhoe believes its Zambian and Angolan licences share notable geological traits with its record-setting discoveries in the DRC and is optimistic that these efforts will uncover the world’s next major copper deposits.

Also read: Ivanhoe Mines reshape DRC’s copper and zinc future

Komatsu to unveil powerful PC7000-11E electric excavator at bauma 2025. (Image source: bauma)

The global mining industry is under pressure to secure a stable raw material supply while reducing its environmental, climate, and social impacts. Addressing this 'mining challenge' will be a key focus at bauma 2025

As the world's leading trade fair for construction and mining machinery, the event—taking place from 7 to 13 April at the Munich exhibition center—will showcase groundbreaking solutions designed to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability in mining.

Battery-powered charging without fixed infrastructure

Mining companies are increasingly adopting alternative drive technologies to cut emissions, particularly underground, where reducing exhaust fumes is a priority. One notable innovation at bauma 2025 is Aramine’s L440B, the first battery-powered charger that eliminates the need for a fixed charging infrastructure. Featuring an integrated charger, the L440B can be powered up anywhere with an available power connection, streamlining operations and reducing costly installations. Additionally, its modular battery system allows for continuous operation by alternating between charged battery units.

To further support emission-free energy generation directly at mining sites, Aramine and its partner, Tysilio, have developed portable solar power plants. Housed in containers, these solar units can be quickly deployed, making them ideal for remote mining locations.

Electrified excavation with power cable support

Komatsu is set to unveil one of the most powerful electrified mining machines at bauma 2025: the PC7000-11E large hydraulic excavator. Powered via a cable connection, this massive machine features a 44 m³ backhoe bucket and delivers exceptional digging power with a reduced carbon footprint. Its automatic cable-winding system ensures safe and efficient movement within open-pit mining operations.

Autonomous and high-capacity mining trucks

Decarbonisation and autonomy go hand in hand in modern mining, as seen in Liebherr’s T 264 dump truck. Developed in collaboration with Australian mining giant Fortescue, the truck boasts a massive 3.2 MW battery and a payload capacity of 240 tons, showcasing the potential for fully electric, high-performance mining vehicles.

Liebherr is also presenting the S1 Vision, a battery-powered, fully autonomous transport vehicle with an innovative design. Unlike traditional dump trucks, the S1 Vision features a single axle with two tires, allowing it to turn in place and move in any direction—ideal for confined spaces. Its scalable design supports payloads ranging from 220 kilograms to 131 tons. This cutting-edge vehicle has been nominated for the bauma Innovation Award in the machine technology category.

Digital advancements for smarter mining

Digital transformation continues to reshape mining operations, and bauma 2025 will highlight major advancements in this space. One standout innovation is Epiroc’s Underground Manager 2.0, a digital platform designed for tunnel construction projects. By integrating real-time machine data, the system enhances coordination across drilling, grouting, and anchoring operations, improving planning, performance tracking, and reporting.

Smart diagnostics for mining equipment

Paus is introducing the next-generation Universa 55, a highly versatile mining carrier equipped with advanced on-board diagnostics. Operators can monitor key performance data in real time, including control system sensor readings, and detect active faults early to prevent downtime. The Universa 55 also features a standard interface for cloud connectivity, enabling real-time monitoring, geofencing, statistical analysis, and remote diagnostics.

With a strong focus on sustainability, automation, and digitalisation, bauma 2025 will highlight the future of mining technology, offering industry leaders a glimpse into the next generation of efficient and environmentally friendly solutions.

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