Zinc Alloy Couplers

The couplers, manufactured from its patented South Africa Future Value (ZAFV) material, are the result of a three year research and development programme to develop a replacement for the traditional copper or brass alloy plugs, sockets and couplers that facilitate the connection of electrical cables to mobile mining equipment.

Usually components maintain a high weight-to-value ratio and are a high theft risk.  Coupler theft may result in excessive downtime and loss of production.

The ZAFV-alloy coupler is 33% lighter than its brass

equivalent and demonstrates material integrity while remaining completely malleable and retaining its machinability.

The product has been approved by Sasol, Exxaro, Xstrata and South 32.  The manufacturing company is engaging with Sasol Commercial to service existing demand and amend its contract to include the use of the ZAFV-alloy components at all operations.

The material is also undergoing extensive testing at various accredited facilities in Australia, the UK and the US.

Mining Weekly October 2011 pg 39