From an R&D standpoint, what solutions has Martin Engineering been working on in 2021?

We are focused on improving the reliability of systems through our solutions to increase the efficiency of mining operations. Remote monitoring and remote technical support has become paramount in today’s time, and we are working on solutions and technologies which enable us to support our customers with specialized services from locations away from the mine site.

Martin Engineering is developing remote monitoring solutions which enables us to see if our products are working correctly, if they are well maintained, and when replacement of wearing parts will be necessary. Currently, our remote monitoring solution are applied to our primary cleaner products, but will soon be applied to other product lines. The mining industry has always been conservative in implementing new technologies, but the pandemic has dramatically accelerated the need for these solutions.

What are the benefits of Martin Engineering’s stand-alone pneumatic tension system for belt cleaners?

Our stand-alone pneumatic tension system delivers precise tensioning throughout all stages of our blades’ life, reducing the labor typically required to maintain optimum belt pressure and extending the service life of both the belt and the cleaner. Equipped with sensors to confirm that the belt is loaded and running, the system automatically backs the cleaners away during stoppages or when the conveyor is running empty, minimizing unnecessary wear to both the belt and cleaner. The result is consistently correct belt tension, with reduced power demand on start-up, all managed without human intervention. This system increases safety, productivity and cost efficiency for the customer.

What type of return on investment can clients expect when using Martin Engineering’s solutions?

One of our customers revealed that they used to spend 10 times the money to actually clean their equipment compared to what they invested in our products to prevent cleaning. Our products and solutions focus on protecting workers from injury or illness, eliminating wasted motion and energy use, moving as much product as possible in the system per given length of time, maximizing production and revenues while minimizing costs, all of which add value to a mining operation.

Looking towards 2022, which areas of the business and which regions do you see as having high potential for growth?

There are many opportunities in the technology space, particularly for remote solutions, and we aim to continue complementing our product offering with the latest technologies. Geographically, Brazil will continue to be a strong market for us, and we believe that we will see high growth in Mexico in the coming years. Peru has vast potential, and could even become a larger producer than Chile in the future, but this is dependent on improving the social conflicts that has slowed mining development. Regardless, it is still a very important market for Martin Engineering and a major player in the region.     

Do you have a final message about how Martin Engineering can help mining companies optimize production?

Martin Engineering wants to be a real partner to its customers. We work closely with them to fully understand their challenges, pains, needs and goals, and we personalize solutions depending on the context of the mine or client we are working with. We will always continue to develop solutions which increase safety, reliability, productivity, sustainabilit and profit and now more than ever, with new technologies.