53 / 60
July 2017
MODERN MINING
51
PRODUCT News
Weba uses 3D scanning to
optimise chute solutions
Equipped with the technical expertise to engineer tailored solutions in trans-
fer point and chute systems, Weba Chute Systems uses three-dimensional (3D)
scanning technology to ensure high quality results. This minimises rework costs
in design and manufacturing, and reduces downtime during installation.
Managing Director Mark Baller saysWeba’s 3D scanning capability is the ideal
solution for predetermining new equipment design for accurate integration into
existing infrastructure, as well as for creating an accurate preliminary design and
costing in the early feasibility stages of a project.
“Being able to obtain accurate measurements from a safe distance with
minimal time duration, this technology allows us to inspect and survey large
infrastructure in detail and allows us to consider all elements in play when
replacing and repairing customers’ equipment,” says Baller. “From this data,
we can generate 3D models from on-site conditions and conduct accurate
reverse-engineering.”
Baller says that 3D scanning offers far greater accuracy than manual measur-
ing. With their high levels of precision, robustness and portability, modern laser
scanners have become invaluable in the designing, building, restructuring and
extending technical facilities; they are now able to create graphic and dimen-
sioned reproductions of large, complex structures in great detail.
Design engineers can then superimpose the scan on their design intent and
pick up any interference, existing defects, redundant elements, structural defor-
mation and undocumented historical alterations made to the site’s infrastructure
that may lead to problems during the design and execution phases. However, a
scan on its own is not enough to engineer a customer solution.
“Many companies offer 3D scanning, but do not have the in-house ability to
then process and effectively utilise this data in a mining engineering environ-
ment,” he says. “As a market leader, that is one of our strengths; and comes from
our continuous investment in upgrading our systems and work flow processes
to ensure that we stay abreast of best practice.”
Engineering know-how is critical to the optimal application and integration
of 3D scanning to the design and manufacturing processes, which improves
planning and scheduling through the provision of precise and reliable data. This,
in turn, reduces project risks and contingency costs, especially in time sensitive
conditions that demand a low margin of error.
Weba Chute System’s investment in this technology enables the company
to offer the most appropriate solution with the lowest risk of encountering any
unforeseen issues during installation.
Mark Baller, Weba Chute Systems, tel (+27 11) 827-9372
Weba Chute Systems uses three-dimensional (3D) scanning technology to ensure high qual-
ity results.