Bulk materials handling solutions provider Martin Engineering launched two new products in January and February respectively – the Martin Roller Tracker (MRT) and the Martin QB1 primary belt cleaner.

Developed in South Africa, the MRT operates on reversing belts. It can continuously correct belt tracking, which results in precise and correct processing on the conveyer belt.

The MRT is easy to install and requires little maintenance. Its polyurethane lagging improves durability and its heavy-duty bearings ensure a longer running time.

It also has a vibration-free rolling action and has no contact with the edge of the belt. Martin Engineering MD Hannes Kotze adds that there is significant market interest in this product, as it is priced competitively and works efficiently.

Meanwhile, the QB1 primary belt cleaner, which was developed at Martin Engineering’s head office, in the US, is an upgraded version of Martin Engineering’s QC1 belt cleaning design.

The QB1 uses high-grade polyurethane and a unique tensioning mechanism that helps provide a cleaner belt and a longer blade life at a lower cost. It has the same ease of installation as the QC1 belt cleaners and, therefore, maintains the standard of installation and service costs.

Martin Engineering uses its EVO design principles to reduce components’ surface exposure to material flow. Subsequently, material build-up, cleanup costs and production interruptions are reduced, and safety concerns are mitigated.

“We are so confident in the performance of our new Martin QB1 primary belt cleaner that we now proudly offer the industry’s first Forever Belt cleaner guarantee – an exclusive offer available to Martin Engineering customers using genuine replacement blades,” states Kotze.

The QB1 primary belt cleaner features a direct retrofit for current installations, which means there is no need for cutting holes or cutting head chutes. It is a direct retrofit for other manufacturers’ frames and is available in aluminium, steel or stainless steel components.

Meanwhile, Kotze notes that, when it comes to research and development, all Martin Engineering products are subjected to the same process. A conceptual idea is created to fill a gap in the market and the prototype is created and rigorously tested, firstly at its Centre for Innovation at Martin Engineering ’s head offices, and thereafter on site.

Test results are analysed to improve the design, after which more test units are placed at different sites using different applications, such as wet or dry material like wet or dry coal, for instance. After this process, the product is ready to be launched.

Training and Installation

Martin Engineering provides comprehensive manuals with step-by-step instructions on how an installation should be done.

However, Kotze points out that it is always preferable to use a knowledgeable team, as site specifications often differ. He adds that the company also has a service department dedicated to installations and product maintenance.

The company also offers its proprietary Foundations training programme, which focuses on materials handling.

Martin Engineering offers training programmes suitable for individuals and companies with varying levels of experience and responsibility. The company’s online program includes an Internet-based, self-paced version of its Foundations Operations and Maintenance seminar, which focuses on the improvement of belt-conveyor operations and the justification for investing in systems to reduce fugitive material, control dust, extend component life and improve the performance of conveyor systems and plant personnel.

“The two goals of any bulk-materials handling operation should be to improve conveyor safety and efficiency,” concludes Kotze.