WESTERN CHROME MINES

Data as follows:

Type of conveyor:

Matador Class 1000 3 ply 5/2.5

Conveyor speed:

1.8 m/s

Conveyor loading:

between 100 and 380 t/hour

Material conveyed:

Chrome ore and waste rock

Lump size:

60% fines and 40% 50mm to 400mm

Material SG:

3.8 - 4.2

Operating hours:

14 - 16 Hours per day 5 days per week

Tons conveyed:

273,000 (Total test period)

Testing:

The Outer diameters of all the idlers were precisely measured and recorded.  The idlers were then put into commissioned simultaneously and were subjected to the same operating conditions during the duration of the test period.

Important observations:

Physical inspection indicated that the steel idlers shell joints wee clearly visible with an uneven surface pattern alongside the joints.  This indicate that the joint areas were initially protruding beyond the specified circumference of the idler diameter, resulting in excessive wear in this area.  I am of the opinion that the steel idler would prematurely fail at the shell joints, assuming no other (bearings, etc.) failure occur first.

The "YeloRoll" indicated no visual abnormal bearing, shaft or end cap arrangement wear or abnormal condition.  This aspect can only be assessed after a more extensive test period.

Contact:

Ruben Geyer

Production Engineer WC

Tel / Fax:

0145746099

E-Mail:

ruben.geyer@samancor.co.za

Address:  

Western Chrome Mines

Mooinooi

P.O. Box 245

0325 

Report compiled by: 

Signature on original document 23/5

R. B. Geyer 

Head of Department: 

Signature on original document 

D. F. Botha

Engineering Manager WCM