As mining projects look to optimise their pump and process performance while minimising risk, there is good reason why Weir Minerals Africa is regularly awarded the lion’s share of large execution projects.
According to Marnus Koorts, general manager pump products at Weir Minerals Africa, the company wins about 95% of the process projects in the mining sector today for which it bids.
“Our success has everything to do with how we leverage our full design, engineering and manufacturing capability,” says Koorts. “This level of expertise and infrastructure is something that few of our competitors can match; indeed, we are the only pump manufacturer in Africa with this integrated resource base.”
He adds that most of its product offering is manufactured in-house. This internal capability gives the business a distinct advantage in developing and implementing custom designs and complex solutions. It also provides closer control over quality and can radically improve lead times.
“An important differentiator for us is our two foundries – our Heavy Bay Foundry in Gqeberha and another in Isando which includes our innovative Replicast plant,” he says. “These two facilities give us greater reliability in our supply chain and scheduling, reducing the risk of late deliveries that could delay customers’ project roll out.”
With Weir Minerals Africa’s large team of hydraulic engineers, there is also considerable in-country capacity to support engineered-to-order (ETO) requirements. This enhances the value of early stage collaboration with customers, where the company can offer insights and guidance on pump and process related issues even at concept stage. This, emphasises Koorts, makes it easier for project managers to pre-empt technical challenges later.
The world class facility in Isando is one of Weir Minerals’ technology hubs for a range of its pump brands including the Warman DWU and Envirotech range. As a result, it is able to export significant volumes of this equipment to sister companies worldwide.
“While many competitors rely on distributors and agents to deal with customers, Weir Minerals Africa has over the years established an extensive branch network across the continent,” he says. “This footprint ensures our direct contact with customers, so that they receive the same high level of service irrespective of their location. They also have direct access to our highly skilled and experienced product experts.”
