Theft-proof couplers
4th Quarter 2018
Other technologies
Couplers facilitate the connection of electrical cables to mobile mining equipment. Given that they are traditionally manufactured from brass, leaded gun metal or stainless steel, the extremely high weight-to-value ratio of these critical components presents a substantial theft risk. The cost of replacing stolen couplers is often further exacerbated by subsequent downtime and production losses. Proof Engineering has pioneered the ProAlloy zinc coupler. This revolutionary unit presents a three-in-one solution for industry: reduced theft risk, lighter weight and lower cost.
Instead of the traditional materials, the ProAlloy is manufactured from a zinc, copper and aluminium mix which holds no resale value. The aluminium contaminates the mix, significantly decreasing the value and it cannot be sold for scrap. The patented non-theft ProAlloy material not only also makes the coupler 33% lighter in weight, but also presents a more affordable alternative.
The ProAlloy coupler demonstrates material integrity, retains its machinability and remains completely malleable. Stringent corrosion tests conducted by Mintek showed that there is no corrosion affect. Marks adds that the addition of a newly developed additive has improved the metal strength of the coupler even further.
The ProAlloy couplers have been successfully tried and field tested by a number of blue chip mining houses. This has led to the manufacture of ProAlloy plugs and sockets that provide end users with the same benefits as the ProAlloy couplers. “The material may also have potential applications in components other than electrical couplers, such as switches, housings and flameproof glands,” concludes Marks.
For more information contact Donovan Marks, Proof Engineering, +27 11 824 1146, [email protected], www.proofeng.co.za
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