Intelligent maintenance solutions that redefine safety and efficiency in mining operations

As part of our ongoing series dedicated to intelligent solutions aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency in maintenance, the sizer hot-change concept serves as another illustrative example of how safety and efficiency can complement one another.

TAKRAF’s sizer hot-change maintenance solution is designed with a high level of configurability in order to cater to plant-specific needs. We are able to develop a solution that best adapts to plant requirements.
TAKRAF’s sizer hot-change maintenance solution is designed with a high level of configurability in order to cater to plant-specific needs. We are able to develop a solution that best adapts to plant requirements.
Left: hot-change arrangement with one operational spot (A), one temporary parking spot (B) and one spare sizer (C). The spots B and C are preferably used for maintenance of the machines.   Right: checker-type arrangement (example) with 4 operational spots (A), various temporary parking spots (e.g. B), one common spare sizer (C) within a dedicated maintenance bay and an optional truck loading area (D).
Left: hot-change arrangement with one operational spot (A), one temporary parking spot (B) and one spare sizer (C). The spots B and C are preferably used for maintenance of the machines. Right: checker-type arrangement (example) with 4 operational spots (A), various temporary parking spots (e.g. B), one common spare sizer (C) within a dedicated maintenance bay and an optional truck loading area (D).

In the dynamic world of mining operations, where safety and efficiency are paramount, finding a delicate maintenance balance can often seem like walking a tightrope. At TAKRAF Group, we have embraced a holistic and intelligent design approach from the very inception of our projects, transcending conventional boundaries to develop innovative maintenance solutions where increased safety doesn’t necessarily have to come at the expense of maintenance efficiency.  

TAKRAF’s sizer hot-change method for crushing plants is another illustrative example of us leveraging our extensive project and industry experience, so that one doesn't come at the expense of the other. 

Our hot-change arrangement, typically for primary sizers, features travel sets that enable a safe, rapid, and efficient “hot-swap” between an operational machine and a spare sizer on the same platform

Expanding on the hot-change method, TAKRAF provides a checker-type arrangement for multiple machines in primary, secondary or tertiary applications. This configuration allows several machines to benefit from the efficiency of a single common spare sizer. To further enhance efficiency, a bridge crane can be utilized to handle entire sizers, serving both maintenance and truck-loading operations. 

A checker type arrangement can be provided in different customized versions for a scalable number of operational sizers and with a fixed crane and/or loading bay being optional. Both solutions – hot-change and checker arrangement – can feature various devices to lift and move the sizers. 

While TAKRAF sizers by default provide maximized maintenance flexibility (including maintenance within the operating slot – as explained in previous content), the presence of dedicated maintenance areas and spare machines enables crushing operations to continue while maintenance activities are being performed. For most applications, this separation ensures a safer and more ergonomic maintenance regime with reduced time-pressure avoiding shortcuts and unsafe practices. 

In conclusion, TAKRAF's solutions exemplify a commitment to separating equipment in operation from its maintenance. This separation leads to increased maintenance safety and heightened productivity

As underlined by the hot-change example, we continually translate operational requirements into solutions that combine safety improvements with enhanced maintenance efficiency. We firmly believe that improved maintenance solutions should always bring about safety benefits, and that there is no need for safety enhancements to come at the cost of maintenance efficiency. Even if a solution demands higher initial capital expenditure, it undoubtedly contributes to lower total ownership costs. Such cost savings are realized through improved efficiencies that result in quicker and safer equipment reintegration into operations, ultimately leading to more production time.  

Embracing a holistic maintenance philosophy eliminates the need for compromises, ensuring that both safety and efficiency do not need to come at the expense of the other – when minutes count, make the most of every second! 

As always, for any further information or support, please send us an e-mail on: info@takraf.com.   

Innovation out of tradition – It pays to talk to a specialist! 

Please watch our sizer hot-change animation video below, also available on our YouTube channel here