REDUCING CAPITAL SPEND Martin Engineering is mitigating industry challenges by providing clients with the best possible materials handling solutions that achieve short-term investment returns
Mining industry cost cutting, as a result of low commodity prices, is having a knock-on effect in the materials handling industry, as capital spending is reduced and maintenance budgets are slashed, says bulk materials handling solutions provider Martin Engineering.
In addition, many marginal operations are closing and the state of the global economy is dire.
Martin Engineering MD Hannes Kotze says the company is mitigating these challenges by focusing on providing its clients with the best possible materials handling solutions while achieving short-term investment returns.
He notes that the materials handling industry is focusing on technical advances associated with wear parts to achieve reduced costs per ton.
Future Growth
Despite the current economic outlook in the materials handling industry, there are areas that have potential to grow, Kotze says, stating that sub-Saharan Africa’s mining industry will be able to reach its full potential once the necessary infrastructure is put in place.
Martin Engineering is expanding into Africa through its sales representatives, focusing on exports. The company was awarded a three-month contract in May by a global mining company in Mozambique. In terms of the contract, which officially started in June and is scheduled to end in August, Martin Engineering will provide maintenance services and supply spare parts.
A company team provides maintenance services, with company products such as the SC16 secondary belt cleaner, V Ploughs and the EVO High Speed Roller Cradle having been sold already.
Kotze explains that Martin Engineering was initially contracted to get the plant up to standard while there was a monthlong shutdown, after which the three-month maintenance contract started, adding that about 53 belts are currently being serviced.