Mining system solutions provider Becker Mining South Africa has secured an order for two 10 t electric chain hoists with motorised trolleys from equipment supplier Klevan Mining – Becker Mining’s distributor in Limpopo.

Manufactured by materials handling equipment producer Kito, these robust ER2 hoists, ordered last month, will be installed at a Limpopo mine’s underground pump- stations for the installation and maintenance of dewatering pumps and motors. The order includes motorised trolleys, which will ensure smooth, precise traversing and positioning, explains Becker.

“Kito equipment . . . is known for efficient performance, low maintenance and an extended service life. The strength and reliability of these hoists is in the sophisticated design and a meticulous manufacturing process,” says Becker Mining South Africa consumables senior GM Rick Jacobs. He adds that the series of dual-speed hoists and trolleys has been designed with an inverter as a standard feature to improve efficiency, enhance safety and facilitate ease of operation.

“A double safety mechanism, consisting of a friction clutch and an upper-lower limit switch, moreover, ensures optimum safety and prevents hoist or load chain damage. The electromagnetic brake also ensures strong braking power, while holding the load securely, with push-button controls offering enhanced operator comfort and reduced fatigue. The Kito load bell, which is an optional extra feature, automatically alerts the operator when the hoist is overloaded.

A high-strength, nickel-plated load chain further increases the hoist’s resistance to wear and corrosion. The forged carbon steel hook has been designed to open gradually and will not fracture under excessive load. Top and bottom hooks are equipped with a hook latch and the bottom hook swivels 360º to prevent kinking and twisting of the load chain.

Jacobs highlights that an important feature of this lightweight series is the compact aluminium die-cast body, which is structurally strong. In accordance with the International Electrotechnical Commission’s International Protection 55 rating, the enclosure offers protection against dust and water, which is critical in many mining applications. For reliable and safe operation, a standard thermal protector also prevents the motor from burning out as a result of excessive use.

An emergency stop button is a standard feature, allowing the motor power to be disconnected in an emergency without cutting the main power supply, while the fan-cooled motor, with motor frame fins and a fan cover, offers quiet operation and enhanced fan cooling capabilities.

Kito trolleys are available as motorised, plain and geared units to provide smooth, precise and easy traversing and positioning of the hoists. Drop stops provide additional security of the motorised trolley for the operator and equipment, while rubber bumpers protect it from collisions.

The complete range of Kito lifting and pulling equipment, which conforms with international quality and safety specifications, includes manual and electric chain hoists and lever blocks. These machines are available nationally from Becker Mining South Africa, which offers a technical advisory, repair, test and backup service.