A pump OEM had approached Marthinusen & Coutts, an after-market service provider of electrical and mechanical rotating machines in Africa, to assess several underground pump motors. There was an urgency to the situation due to the risk of flooding should there be any undue interruptions in pumping operations.

Investigations revealed that the motors driving the pumps were in a poor condition, with this severely affecting the availability and the performance of the pump chambers. This required the initiation of a detailed refurbishment programme, involving the procurement of spare parts, the setting up of an on-site bearing store, and taking the lead in returning the motors to full service.

Where possible, the motors were repaired in situ - thus avoiding any possible crisis of underground flooding - while others were removed for full refurbishment. The highest level of engineering practices where followed during repairs, re-installation and commissioning. Ongoing support is also being provided, including the training of mine maintenance staff, the development of installation and commissioning specifications, conducting of regular site inspections, management of spares and continual engagement with mine engineering management.

Marthinusen & Coutts operates six repair and manufacturing facilities - in Johannesburg, Benoni, Sasolburg, Rustenburg, Harare and Kitwe. Supported by a network of technically equipped partners throughout Africa, it provides services not only in Africa but globally.