South Africa’s remote mining locations require reliable equipment which can operate far from urban power grids. Mining locations are often located in underdeveloped areas of the country, and with power being unpredictable, diesel-fuelled machinery is the only practical solution. At BS Power, we supply concrete mixers designed to operate in off-grid areas without the need for electrical connections.

 

Diesel drum mixers are widely used in our country’s mining sector, with good reason.

 

They are used to mix concrete for tunnels and foundations entirely off-grid. They are useful for large excavations which require uninterrupted operation. In this BS Power article, we will explore how concrete mixers are used in the mining industry, overcoming unique challenges in remote locations.

 

Reliable Concrete Mixing For Mining Tunnels

 

In the mining industry, constructing tunnels is an ongoing challenge. These tunnels require a steady production of concrete to build strong foundations that withstand earth pressure and other environmental conditions. The correct cement mixers are able to deliver consistent mixes needed in the construction of these rough conditions. Limited power can cause many challenges in remote locations, which, as it happens, are where most mines are located.

 

Our diesel-fuelled drum mixers can withstand these conditions and overcome the power availability challenge. This can eliminate any wasted time during crucial stages of tunnel excavation. Our cement mixers are mobile, reducing the need for frequent setups near inaccessible underground areas. Machine operators find these machines easy to operate in confined spaces.

 

 

Tunnel Lining Applications

 

Bs Power cement mixers can be used to prepare concrete for tunnel linings. These linings are used to protect miners against rock falls and water ingress. Materials can be evenly distributed in drum mixing, creating a uniform mixture. Miners can pour the mixed concrete directly into forms. The 560L Diesel Concrete Drum Mixer with Hydraulic Skip from BS Power eases this process. Workers can depend on this mixer as the hydraulic system lifts and tips loads precisely, avoiding spillages in narrow underground areas.

 

The grid-free operation means no electrical power source or alternative setup, such as generators are needed for operations, allowing production to flow consistently during shifts. The machine maintenance is straightforward with easy assessable engine parts. Miners can complete tunnel linings faster when using concrete mixers.

 

Support Structure Reinforcement

 

In mining, tunnels require extra support, such as ribs and arches, to create a safe space for workers. Cement mixers can be used to strengthen tunnels by blending aggregates in their concrete mixes. The mixer’s sturdy frame allows it to navigate uneven tunnel surfaces. The mixers have a long operating runtime, convenient for 12-hour shift schedules.

 

Miners are able to reinforce structures before advancing to excavation in areas. Support structures need to be strong without weak spots. This is where the uniform mixing of the mixer helps overcome uneven mixing, compromising the integrity of the structure. Machine operators are able to control the drum speed, allowing them to create the perfect mix. Mixers can be used in deep-level mining operations.

 

Waterproofing Mix Preparation

 

Miners can mix waterproof concrete, which is often needed in tunnels prone to seepage. BS power mixers can reliably incorporate admixtures to create a waterproof concrete mix used for this purpose. The diesel engine powers paddles through the mixtures, preventing clumping, especially when additives like polymers are used. As mentioned, mixers are grid-independent, making them ideal for flooded access routes. Sealants can be added mid-cycle to create custom blends, allowing teams to seal tunnels against groundwater. The finished mixes can cure with low permeability, creating a long-lasting seal.

 

BS Power’s diesel cement mixers feature powerful engines and sturdy frames for harsh environments, allowing you to prepare concrete exactly where needed. This reduces transport time and risks of premature set, a costly and possibly detrimental issue. Reliable mixing will maintain uniformity for foundation integrity and longevity. Operators value the self-contained design.

 

Pad Footing, Slab Base Pouring And Anchor Block Forming

 

Pad footings for mining crushers are reinforced pads made from concrete. These pads are designed as shallow foundations to support heavy loads from mining crushers. They are created to withstand tension and vibration during the operation of the crusher. Usually square or circular in design, these pads are necessary, providing a stable foundation by spreading the weight equally over an area of land. Gravel and rebar are usually added to strengthen these pads.

 

Concrete mixers are also used for slab base pouring, essential for processing plants. Operators will typically blend a specific ratio of fine aggregates to create smooth surfaces. Our diesel-powered mixers are able to mix batches consistently without segregation, delivering that smooth consistency needed for slab pouring. Operators will adjust the water ratios during the mixing process for the ideal consistency. Consistent mixes can create strong slabs, necessary to resist vibrations caused by operating equipment.

 

Anchor blocks are exactly what one would imagine them to be. They are heavy concrete masses used to resist tensile forces while securely anchoring heavy equipment. These solid and fixed points are primarily used to ensure stability and prevent movement caused by the operation of crushers. These anchor points are usually placed on the foundation to serve as a counterweight, anchoring mass. Concrete mixers can be used to create these anchor blocks on site, eliminating the need to transport heavy masses to the mining location.

 

Berm Lining Production And Retaining Walls

 

Berm linings are protective coverings applied to berms, forming part of the foundational structure. Berms are raised barriers which are made of soil and act as a safety ledge or containment structure. These are used on open-pit mine walls and dumping sites. Berm linings protect the earth structure from erosion and material spillage, creating a durable and impermeable surface in harsh mining environments. Berm linings can be created using mixers on-site.

 

Retaining walls can be created using a mixer, creating a safer work environment, and preventing collapse by holding back soil or rock. These walls can prevent dangerous landslides and are able to withstand static weight. These walls ensure operational safety and structural integrity in harsh mining environments.

 

 

BS Power’s Range For Remote Mining Needs

 

BS Power supplies cement mixers, which can be used for small mining projects. These mixers are ideal for areas where larger volumetric concrete mixers or ready-made concrete trucks cannot reach. There are many reasons why engineers might not be able to use larger mixers, but mostly it is due to limitations on access.

 

Soil surfaces of a sandy nature could pose a challenge for heavy mixers or vehicles. BS Power cement mixers have wheeled chassis, allowing users to tow them on site as needed. The diesel-powered mixer’s stability prevents tip-overs on slopes. The large fuel tanks reduce refuelling trips. The 500L Diesel Concrete Drum Mixer from BS Power is known for its durability and on-site manoeuvrability.

 

The robust mixer frame is durable and ideally suited to harsh environments such as mines. Welded steel allows the frame to resist impact, enduring hard work for long periods of time. Operators should keep service intervals in mind for downtimes. The machines at BS Power have very low failure rates, yielding long returns after investment.

 

Maintenance For Longevity And Daily Cleaning Routines

 

Bs Powers’s mixers are easily serviced and come with a manual explaining simple daily checks. Bearings should be lubricated on a weekly basis to ensure smooth rotation of the drum. Fuel filters can be changed quarterly, depending on how often the machine is in operation.

 

Operators can follow service schedules from the manual, which will extend the engine life. Users should consider stocking replaceable parts on site in remote locations, preventing waiting time when sourcing parts. Users can keep the machine in operation year-round with consistent services and checks.

 

Cleaning the mixer on site is a very important task which should not be skipped. The mixer should be rinsed and washed properly after every use to reduce residual concrete, preventing concrete hardening inside the lining of the drum. Hardened concrete can make the mixer heavier and unstable, possibly causing damage or breaking the machine. A clean machine will have a longer lifespan, keeping it operational for longer.

 

Lubrication, Checks And Troubleshooting Onsite

 

BS Power recommends oiling pivot points on a daily basis, especially in locations that are very dusty. Users should check the engine oil level every few days, topping up when necessary. Belts need to be checked and replaced when worn down to prevent damage to the machine. As mentioned, fuel filters should be replaced as diesel filters clog easily. Users should use clean fuel to prevent clogging.

 

The high vibrations of the machine or other machines could cause bolts to loosen. Users need to be vigilant and take precautions by fastening loose bolts on a daily basis. Abnormal noises coming from the drum are a sign of blade wear. The blade might need to be replaced or cleaned. Fuel issues are usually caused by dirty fuel tanks and filters. The tank should be drained and refilled with clean fuel. Users should log any operational issues of the machine.

 

Operator Training For Peak Performance

 

Having knowledge of basic mechanics and mixer operation will boost the machine’s lifespan and effectiveness. This is why we at BS Power recommend that users and operators receive the correct training on operating the mixer, cleaning and maintaining the mixer. Trained individuals will be able to spot small faults, easily repaired before any damage occurs, which could be costly.

 

Load management will also be important for users. Operators should learn how to balance BS Power cement mixer loads, as overfilling the drum can cause significant strain on the engine. Users should weigh the aggregates they intend to use before adding them to the mixer. Users who avoid overloading the machine can easily keep to a work and production schedule with no unexpected breakdowns.

 

Safety protocols should be put in place before the operation of the machine. Any team members or operators should exercise a few drills to ensure full competency in the event of an emergency.

 

Operators should always wear PPE gear according to the South African health and safety department standards. This will also allow for safety compliance and avoid any legal penalties. The mixer operation area should be clear with enough space for drum rotation. Users should be vigilant when handling fuel and follow exact procedures in case of spillage.

 

 

BS Power’s Durable And Reliable Concrete Mixers

 

Mining projects located in remote, off-grid locations require strong and durable machinery that operators can rely on. BS Power’s impressive range of concrete mixers is ideal for ruggedness and mobility, aiding workflow on site. These mixers are ideal for tunnels, building foundations and excavations.

 

With their fuel efficiency and simple servicing needs, they are perfect for harsh environments in need of alternative mixing methods. Operators can increase productivity and overcome terrain challenges with BS Power’s reliable concrete mixers. For more information on mixers, visit our website or contact one of our experts today.