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

Using genuine parts for crushers and screens is crucial for ensuring operational efficiency and long-term sustainability. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) like Metso provide high-quality, reliable equipment designed to keep customers’ projects profitable

However, using counterfeit, non-genuine, or fake parts presents significant risks to operations, undermining the very principles that OEMs stand for.

Francois Marais, sales and marketing director at local Metso distributor pilot crushtec, said, “OEMs like Metso spend decades developing and supporting technologies that provide customers with reliable and high performance solutions for crushing and screening. However, this work is quickly undone when non-OEM parts are installed in our equipment, supposedly to save a few rand in maintenance costs.”

Marais goes on to explain that Metso’s equipment’s performance and reliability stem from its proven design and precision engineering. The various components and wear parts that need replacing over time are an integral part of this. Non-genuine parts, however, do not benefit from this technical heritage, leading to compromised performance and reliability.

Merja Tyyni, vice-president of aftermarket distribution management at Metso, added, “Our customer relationships focus on the whole process of delivering value to their operations. 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.”

Karima Dargaud, head of aftermarket for Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia at Metso, emphasises the in-depth knowledge OEMs have of their equipment, which enables them to help customers achieve optimal, predictable results.

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

Marais also underscores the critical safety concerns associated with using non-genuine parts. Crushing equipment, in particular, involves extreme forces and speeds, and Metso’s wear parts are designed with specialised materials and hardening techniques to ensure both safety and performance.

“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. 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,” concluded Marasis. 

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