Reliable Bulk Handling Valve Solution for Extreme Mining Conditions
Application: Cemented Aggregate Fill (CAF) Plant Surge Bins
Solution: BC Bulk Handling Square-Port Valve
Overview
The mining operation extracts an ore body using sub-level open "stoping" as the primary mining method. Once extracted, stopes are backfilled with either unconsolidated rock fill or Cemented Aggregate Fill (CAF), a cemented blend of aggregate and binder designed to maintain ground stability.
The CAF process requires equipment that can deliver consistent and reliable performance under highly abrasive conditions and demanding high-cycle operating environments.
The Challenge
The CAF plant surge bins created a demanding valve application requiring improved reliability and service life.
Operational challenges included:
- Highly abrasive material causing accelerated wear
- Material build-up and jamming risks
- Extremely high valve cycling frequency
- Requirement for reliable sealing and tight shut-off
- Short service life from previous valve solutions
- Increased maintenance requirements and downtime
A more robust valve solution was required to improve plant availability and reduce maintenance intervention.
The Solution
The BC Bulk Handling Square-Port Valve was selected for the CAF surge bin application due to its proven ability to operate in severe bulk handling environments.
Key performance advantages:
Heavy-duty design for abrasive CAF service
Reliable operation under high-cycle conditions
Improved resistance to jamming and material build-up
Consistent sealing and shut-off performance
Extended service life compared with previous solutions
As a result of the accelerated wear, the solution required lifecycle maintenance.
Local Refurbishment Capability – Maximising Lifecycle Value
To further support our customer and mining operations, AVK established a CAF valve refurbishment capability at its Wingfield facility in South Australia.
The refurbishment process includes:
- Complete valve strip-down to frame level
- Cleaning, testing and recoating of the valve frame
- Replacement of CAF wear components and service items
- Full rebuild to restore high-performance operation
This capability provides our customer with a faster, more cost-effective alternative to valve replacement.
Customer Value
A Reliable, Local and Cost-Effective Solution
The combination of BC Bulk Handling Valve technology and refurbishment support delivers:
Reduced Lead Times
Refurbishment capability improves turnaround times.
Lower Lifecycle Costs
Refurbishment provides an economical alternative while maintaining performance.
Proven Reliability
A market-leading valve solution designed for demanding mining applications.
Delivering Reliability in One of the World’s Most Challenging Mining Environments
The BC Bulk Handling Valve continues to deliver reliable performance in the CAF plant, with AVK’s local refurbishment support helping to extend maintenance intervals, lower operating costs and enhance overall efficiency.
AVK | Engineered Solutions for Demanding Applications
