Strain gauging is an indispensable part of the engineering toolbox, serving as a means for understanding the structural performance of mining machines. From failure analysis to the optimisation of operational parameters, strain gauging aids engineers to ensure the safety, reliability and efficiency of critical mining infrastructure and machinery.
ASPEC was engaged to carry out a combined Order-of-magnitude/Pre-feasibility study for the replacement of a twin cell car dumper. Options considered in the study included combinations of partial and full cell refurbishment, replacement with like-for-like and replacement with upgraded cell designs. The study identified the best option to carry forward.
Value Engineering (VE) is widely utilised to boost project cost efficiency, though its aims and methods often lack clarity. ASPEC, in its core business domains, is often engaged to develop VE strategies and facilitate processes to maximise project value. This paper explores VEs objectives, methodology, and common pitfalls.
This article presents some simple design tools which can be used by engineers to understand the operation of the materials handling equipment in a stockyard.
Examining sixty-eight bulk material handling machine failures over a forty-four year period this study investigates trends, the impact of standards and mitigating wind failures.
Over many mechanical inspections conducted by Aspec Engineering, it has been found that well over half, and likely as much as three quarters, of all rail clamps have not been functioning correctly. Sites have been inspected where the entire fleet of rail clamps is not working properly.
Aspec Engineering (ASPEC) was engaged to provide engineering support to a client that was upgrading part of their wharf-based rail infrastructure. By leveraging an automated CAD process, the project engineering was completed on time with no errors.
Mobile cranes are widely used in the engineering industry for the construction and assembly of heavy machinery, infrastructure and other large payloads. ASPEC has developed modelling and calculation tools to easily assess the suitability of cranes early in the design process.
Inspection of industrial structures utilises a condition rating system to track the degradation level of steel and concrete over time, using a 1 to 5 scale rating (pristine to unserviceable). The system allows for a consistent rating from any inspecting engineers. The paper gives background on the condition rating from the inspection system developed by ASPEC’s engineers.