Modern Mining February 2016

PRODUCT News

Air filter service indicator reduces wastage

When working in highly contaminated air, typically experienced in very dusty condi- tions, maintenance personnel may need to change filters earlier than scheduled to ensure full airflow and engine power. However, since it is not possible to visually determine when a filter reaches capacity, one of the best ways to determine its effec- tive performance and expected life is via a Cat air filter service indicator, which accurately reads its condition. This easy-to-install indicator shows maintenance personnel how much filter life remains and indicates airflow resistance even when the machine is not running. “Knowing when to change the filter will reduce wastage, as well as the risk of unnecessarily introducing contaminants during in-field fitment outside of scheduled service intervals,” explains Barloworld Equipment group product application specialist, Reuben Phasha. To make sure the service indicator is operating properly, Caterpillar recommends changing it once a year. It should be checked every 250 hours in normal conditions or daily if dust is severe. Where the indicator readings regularly show operating conditions with a high percentage of fine dust particles or exhaust soot, one of the best options for fleet managers is to install Cat UHE (Ultra High Efficiency) air filters to ensure optimum availability and reduced engine wear. “Particles collect on the UHE filter’s surface layer of very fine fibres, quickly building a cake that allows less dust to reach the engine,” Phasha expands. “This surface particle cake is more porous than com- parable dust-coated media fibres, causing less restriction throughout the filter life.” The lower restriction allows the engine to breathe more easily, and fuel economy improves because it takes less power to pull in air. Typically, UHE’s unique surface helps extend air filter life up to six times as long as standard filters. Barloworld Equipment, tel (+27 11) 929-0000 Animated videos provide marketing tool In December 2015, Equipment Simulation Suite (ESS) completed a project for Manitou Southern Africa, producing nine 3D animated videos to be used for the marketing of Manitou’s telehandler mining attachments range. The primary aimof the project was to produce stimulatingmarket- ing material with a strong emphasis on demonstrating the operation and application of the attachments, as well as their capabilities. The videos were produced in full HD resolution and are suitable for all electronic communication platforms, including the internet (company website), mobile devices (uploads) and mobile apps. “3D visualisation is fast becoming the preferred communication channel for industrial products. The stories of these products are being told visually to a global audience in a high-tech, sophisticated manner using innovative and limitless design concepts. This is result- ing in enhanced understanding of these products, creating value

using a cost-effective medium,” says Craig Bowes of ESS. Craig Bowes, ESS, tel (+27 82) 885-3526, e-mail: craig@equipmentsimulation.co.za

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