Solutions for Mining components

Impact, wear, abrasion and corrosion are just a few of the harshest operational problems faced in the mining industry.

APEX ETG’s advanced laser processes optimise performance, reduce weight, increase operational productivity and provide a cost-effective, sustainable solution for the whole lifespan of your assets.

Mining applications

APEX ETG’s laser cladding can effectively improve the wear resistance of Ground Engaging Tools (GETs), drilling parts, and crushing components, which can increase performance, reduce downtime, and lower maintenance costs. Applications include:

  • Fixed Plant Components
  • Mobile Equipment Components
  • Drilling
  • Crushing & Screening
  • Hydraulic Cylinders
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Key Figures

Our technology is built for performance. By reclaiming and enhancing critical components, we help reduce downtime, extend service life, and improve equipment productivity — all with faster, more efficient turnaround times than conventional methods.

Downtime reduction for your operations by reclaiming components with our technology
20- 20 %
Increased service life of components when compared to untreated or conventionally repaired parts
1.5- 1.5 x
Increased productivity of your equipment due to enhanced wear resistance from the metallurgical bond coating
1.5- 1.5 x
Reduction in turnaround time when compared to traditional repair methods
20- 20 %

Industry challenges

Erosion

Erosion in the mining industry is caused by the constant flow of materials, such as water or slurry, which can erode equipment surfaces over time.

Impact wear is caused by the impact of large rocks and other materials on mining equipment, which can cause cracks, dents, and other types of damage.

Corrosion is caused by exposure to acidic or other corrosive materials, which can weaken and degrade equipment surfaces.

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The benefits of laser cladding for mining

Enhanced component durability

Achieve 3-5x longer component life with metallurgically bonded coatings that outperform traditional hardfacing. APEX ETG’s laser cladding creates a protective layer of wear-resistant material onto mining equipment components such as drill bits, crushers, and hammers. By selectively depositing materials with specific properties, you can enhance the characteristics of components to meet the specific efficiencies of mining equipment.

Cost-effective repair and maintenance

Reduce total overall costs through the extended lifespan of critical components and reclamation. Instead of replacing the entire component, a localised area can be repaired by depositing a suitable material using laser cladding. This approach significantly reduces downtime and costs associated with equipment maintenance and the need for spare parts inventory.

Sustainable operations

Support your ESG commitments by remanufacturing components instead of replacing them. Laser cladding uses less material than traditional methods and eliminates waste from discarded parts.

Mining-Specific Surface Engineering Solutions

Australian mining operations face extreme wear challenges that cost billions annually in equipment replacement and downtime. Impact forces, abrasive materials, and corrosive environments cause consistent wear and damage to critical components daily. Traditional maintenance approaches mean frequent replacements, extended downtime, and escalating costs. APEX ETG’s laser cladding technology transforms this equation – delivering metallurgically bonded protective coatings that withstand the harshest conditions while maintaining precise dimensional tolerances. Our solutions help mining operations achieve their production targets and sustainability goals simultaneously.

Mining Capability Statement

APEX ETG is actively working with mining equipment OEMs to research, develop, test and analyse real-world innovations in the field. Advanced and sustainable laser cladding hard-facing processes improve onsite extraction efficiencies by reducing weight with a streamlined design with fewer moving parts, reducing consumption of fuel, and increasing payload capacity.

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FAQ section

How much can laser cladding extend component life?

Laser cladding can significantly extend component service life by up to 100% when compared to standard parts performance.

This dramatic improvement comes from the mechanical properties of high-performance alloys applied to the surface and from the metallurgically bonded protective coating, keeping your critical equipment operational longer.

What productivity improvements does laser cladding offer?

High-speed laser cladding (HSLC) delivers productivity gains of up to 300% over traditional coating methods. The combination of faster scanning speeds and minimal post-processing requirements means your components are back in service sooner with better performance.

How does laser cladding reduce operational downtime?

Our laser cladding turnaround time average over the last 3 years is 10 working days. Depending on the component overall dimensions and weight our team will collaborate with you to design an efficient repair process.

Can laser cladding help optimise component weight?

Targeted material deposition through laser cladding achieves 10-20% weight reduction in aerospace and automotive applications. This precision approach eliminates bulky protective coatings while maintaining superior protection, improving both energy efficiency and overall performance.

What mechanical properties of components can be optimised by using laser cladding?

Laser cladding can help optimise the following mechanical properties:
Hardness, Wear Resistance, Corrosion Resistance, Fatigue Strength, Toughness, Thermal Stability and Bond Strength.

Ready to get started?

Get in touch for a free consultation with one of our experienced team members. APEX ETG has all of your application needs covered.