The mining industry has long been an important sector of the global economy, providing the raw materials necessary for various products, from electronics to infrastructure. However, mining operations can be incredibly damaging to the environment, negatively impacting local ecosystems and communities. Mark Dorgan, Technical & Sales Manager at SIFCO ASC, discusses how the industry can minimize its impact through selective brush plating.

Selective brush plating is used for chrome plating repairs or restore worn or damaged metal surfaces. It involves the application of a metal coating to the affected area using an electroplating process. This can be done without disassembling the component or structure, making it a highly efficient and cost-effective repair method.

In the mining industry, selective brush plating can be used to repair or restore a range of components, from large machinery to small parts. This includes everything from hydraulic rods, rams, and cylinders, bearings to conveyor belts, and valves. The technique can repair damage caused by wear and tear, corrosion, or erosion and even build up worn or undersized surfaces.

Equipment Longevity and Efficiency

One of the key benefits of selective brush plating in the mining industry is its ability to extend the life of equipment and components. By repairing and restoring worn or damaged surfaces, mining companies can reduce the need for parts to be sent away for stripping and re-chroming or costly replacements, which can be both expensive and time-consuming. This can help to minimize downtime and increase productivity, which is essential in a highly competitive and cost-sensitive industry.

Selective brush plating is also highly versatile, allowing for repairs to be made to various materials, including ferrous and non-ferrous metals and some plastics and composites. This makes it an ideal solution for mining operations' diverse components and structures. Another advantage is its ability to be used in situ, without disassembling or removing the component. This can reduce the time and cost involved and minimize the risk of damage during disassembly and reassembly. This is particularly important in the mining industry, where large and complex equipment can be challenging to move and repair.

Selective brush plating can help to improve the safety of mining operations. The risk of failure and subsequent accidents can be minimized by repairing or restoring worn or damaged components before failure or a catastrophic event. This can help protect the health and well-being of mining workers and reduce the risk of damage to equipment and the environment.

A More Sustainable Solution

In addition to its practical benefits, selective brush plating can be a more sustainable solution than traditional repair methods. Reducing the need for replacements and minimizing waste can reduce the environmental impact of mining operations. This is particularly important given the significant impact that mining can have on local ecosystems and communities.

Overall, selective brush plating is an essential technique for the mining industry, providing a range of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, safety, and sustainability benefits. By using this method of repair and restoration, mining companies can extend the life of their equipment and components, reduce the risk of failure and accidents, and minimize their environmental impact. As such, selective brush plating should be considered an essential tool for any mining operation looking to improve its performance and minimize its effects.

The Portable and Fully Automated Electroplating System

In the realm of plating automation, innovation continues to advance at an impressive rate. The most recent breakthrough manifests as a completely portable automated electroplating system. SIFCO ASC’s Advanced Solution Control System (ASCS) boasts state-of-the-art dripless functionality, eliminating the need for drip trays and ensuring that all chemicals are returned to the machine. As a result, it creates a cleaner, more environmentally friendly, and safer working environment.

While this system is suitable for many applications, SIFCO ASC also offers custom robotic automation for frequent, repetitive repairs. This revolutionary development significantly enhances throughput and productivity while reducing manual handling. It proves ideal for tasks that require swift turnaround without the ergonomic risk.

Learn more about SIFCO ASC’s selective electroplating capabilities at https://www.sifcoasc.com/mining.

*All images courtesy of SIFCO.