South Africa’s largest port operator, Transnet, has taken a major step toward boosting efficiency at its premier bulk handling terminal with a new investment in cutting-edge CleanScrape® belt cleaners from Martin Engineering.
Elevating Efficiency at Richards Bay
Located on South Africa’s southeast coast, Transnet’s Richards Bay bulk minerals terminal manages an impressive 20 million tonnes of commodities annually. It facilitates the export of key materials such as magnetite, ferrochrome, bauxite, and woodchips while handling crucial imports, including sulphur, coking coal, and alumina.
With a vast network of approximately 30 conveyors operating 24/7, the terminal must maintain rapid and seamless material transfer. Avoiding delays, minimizing spillage, and preventing equipment breakdowns are paramount to keeping shipping schedules on track. Given the terminal’s towering conveyor discharge points that feed massive dry bulk carriers, maintenance access can be particularly challenging.
To tackle these high-stakes operational demands, Transnet turned to CleanScrape® conveyor belt cleaners, a revolutionary technology designed to enhance cleaning performance while extending equipment lifespan.
The CleanScrape® Advantage
Unlike traditional belt scrapers, CleanScrape® features a patented design using tungsten carbide wear tips arranged in a three-dimensional helix pattern across the discharge pulley. This innovative configuration delivers up to 95% carryback removal with minimal contact pressure, ensuring superior cleaning with a service life up to four times longer than conventional alternatives.
The system requires only occasional tension adjustments after installation, significantly reducing maintenance requirements and lowering overall operational costs.
Pioneering Innovation at Richards Bay
Transnet was the first South African operator to trial CleanScrape® back in 2015. Initially deployed on conveyors measuring 1350mm and 1500mm (54 in. and 60 in.) wide, the system quickly proved its effectiveness in controlling excessive spillage and reducing material buildup along the belt path. Encouraged by these results, Transnet expanded CleanScrape® installations to additional conveyors, particularly at transfer points where access is restricted and conventional scrapers are impractical.
Transforming Operations with Comprehensive Implementation
Now, as part of a major plant overhaul, Transnet has extended CleanScrape® technology to 12 more conveyors, ensuring all critical belts at the facility are equipped with the advanced cleaning system. To further enhance efficiency, the company has also integrated Martin’s SQC2 secondary belt cleaners, which feature a unique slide-in/out assembly for easy servicing and durable blades designed to withstand abrasive bulk cargoes.
Driving Performance and Safety
Cyril Dludla, Transnet’s Technical Supervisor, praised the improvements brought by CleanScrape®, stating: “Since installing the new scrapers, spillage has been drastically reduced. We plan to continue implementing CleanScrape® across the Richards Bay plant. We appreciate the ongoing support from Martin Engineering in ensuring optimal performance.”
Martin Engineering’s Sales Representative for KwaZulu-Natal, Janco Shulze, echoed these sentiments: “We are honored to work alongside Transnet in delivering a clean and efficient operation. CleanScrape® has significantly reduced maintenance demands, allowing Transnet’s teams to focus on other critical areas of the plant.”
Lindokuhle Qwabe, Technical Manager (Export), highlighted the durability and cost-effectiveness of CleanScrape®: “Some of our CleanScrape® cleaners have been operational for over four years with only minor adjustments required. This has greatly reduced wear part costs while ensuring uninterrupted production.”
A Game-Changer for Bulk Handling
Martin Engineering remains committed to providing industry-leading bulk material handling solutions. With decades of expertise and a global presence, the company delivers customized conveyor solutions that improve efficiency, reduce maintenance, and enhance workplace safety.
By adopting CleanScrape®, Transnet is not only improving its operational performance but also setting a new standard for bulk material handling in the region. With cleaner belts, reduced spillage, and lower maintenance demands, the Richards Bay facility is now poised for greater productivity and long-term success.
