In addition to supporting its own products, a recent project to replace the boom on an existing ash spreader at a power plant in South Africa is indicative of the increasing demand for TAKRAF South Africa’s aftermarket services for machines supplied by other OEMs.
The 1,200 t/h spreader machine was originally installed more than 40 years ago by another OEM. Despite a number of unique project challenges, including the fact that the original drawings were not available, TAKRAF managed to replace the 31.5 m long spreader boom in less than four months from contract award. With the contract covering the entire process from disassembly of the old boom to installation on site, TAKRAF assessed the damage to the machine, and planned a solution to meet the customers’ needs.
The bespoke design also included several improvements to the original design to ensure ease of installation and maintenance. One such improvement was the inclusion of a hydraulic tensioning system on the boom conveyor take-up to control and measure belt tension.
The boom was manufactured in South Africa and was fully equipped with instrumentation and mechanical components in the manufacturers’ workshop, prior to delivery to site. This philosophy resulted in a very short installation period on the client’s work site.
“The success of delivering an effective solution to the client is a direct result of the teamwork of all departments within TAKRAF South Africa - from engineering to aftermarket support,” says Richard Späth, Managing Director, TAKRAF South Africa.
“With so many of our competitors leaving the bulk handling and / or aftermarket space, we are delighted to be able to ‘fill the gap’ and support other OEM’s machines with the total product lifecycle services that we offer our own systems and machines.”
These comprehensive services range from spare parts supply through maintenance and monitoring programs, to equipment, repairs, refurbishments, upgrades and retrofits.
Innovation out of tradition – It pays to talk to a specialist!
