Published in Australia's Longwalls

Another source of frustration has been the lack of availability of hydraulic replacement components and parts in Australia. This is where problem-solver Mackay Fluid Power steps in.

Mackay Fluid Power specialises in providing on-site initiation of fluid and pneumatic process control; hydraulic and pneumatic component design and supply; fault diagnostics and repairs; and in field technical support. A key aspect of Mackay's approach is initially understanding the application and then addressing the problem, resulting in possible solutions to suit the specific application.

A number of hydraulic problems stem from using equipment designed for mineral oil in an emulsion application. Components such as cylinders, motors and valves may also be installed performing as low as 40% in terms of overall efficiency and operating hours.

“To satisfy our solutions and proposal, we first determine and confirm the objectives of the application. Then we find and source suitable components and take into account the availability of parts and components in Australia. Only then do we engineer the component into the equipment in question,” said Mackay Fluid Power’s Manfred Luttenberger.

While the majority of the company’s work is carried out while longwall equipment is on the surface for overhaul, Mackay Fluid Power also carries out work while the longwall is still underground.

“Longwalls have such high flow and pressures available and a lot of it is not being used – we can come in and use that energy. We might put a hydraulic motor in position to run a pump or a hydraulic fan without introducing any electrics,” he said.

One way to initially avoid some hydraulic issues is for a company to address it during the tender process.

“During the tendering process, mines would benefit from further studies and contacting local hydraulic companies to find out compatibility and availability of components. There is a lot of knowledge in the local and support industry for the mines and at times it is not used as it should be.

“Also, another key factor is the ability to service and support these products. For example, you might have a motor working at 98% efficiency with mineral oil, and then all of a sudden put it in an emulsion application and it is probably only working at 50%.”

Mackay Fluid Power conducts the majority of its work in the Bowen Basin, but has carried out work overseas and is currently working on an ongoing contract in Indonesia. Work was also completed on a major project in Singapore last year.

Among a long list of products, Mackay Fluid Power is the only Australian distributor for Salzgitter/Heinztmann hydraulic props, widely used in longwall mines for secondary support.