Background
A large mining operation in Zimbabwe embarked on a new deep shaft expansion to increase output capacity by 20%. The site’s geological conditions featured significant depth (>1,200 m) and challenging water ingress, demanding a reliable and robust hoisting system solution. The client had experienced delays, high maintenance costs, and safety incidents with their previous supplier’s equipment.
Objectives & Requirements
* A hoisting system capable of safe, continuous operation under high load and deep shaft conditions
* Explosion-proof features in sections with methane or gas presence
* Easily maintainable parts and rapid availability of spare components
* Local support, training, and integration of the hoist system with the client’s existing infrastructure
Wanfeng’s Solution
Wanfeng proposed a customized package combining:
1. JKMD Multi-Rope Friction Hoist** — to handle deep-lift requirements reliably, with precise speed control and redundancy.
2. JTP(B) Explosion-proof Winches** — for auxiliary hoisting in methane-sensitive zones.
3. Parallel-Shaft Reducers (F-series)** — as part of the drive train, enabling modular maintenance and efficient repair cycles.
4. Full ancillary systems: steel wire ropes, disc brakes, hydraulic power station, couplings, sensors, and control systems — all sourced directly from Wanfeng’s integrated manufacturing lines.
5. On-site installation, commissioning, and staff training by Wanfeng’s engineers, with extended warranty and local spare parts stock.
Implementation & Timeline
Month 1–3: Engineering design, simulation, and customized adaptation to site conditions
Month 4–6: Manufacturing and internal factory tests (including load, speed, vibration, and safety tests)
Month 7: Shipment to Zimbabwe and site delivery
Month 8–10: Installation, integration, trial runs, and performance tuning
Month 11: Full commission, safety certification, operator training
Ongoing: Preventive maintenance, remote support, and quarterly site visits
Results & Benefits
Improved Uptime: The system achieved > 98 % availability in first year, minimizing downtime and revenue loss , Lower Mainten
Enhanced Safety: The explosion-proof winch units mitigated gas-risk zones; advanced control systems and emergency braking increased safety margins
Smooth Operation: The friction hoist delivered stable acceleration/deceleration control even under heavy loads, reducing mechanical stress
Local Capability: Wanfeng’s training enabled the client’s maintenance team to perform first-line servicing independently, cutting dependency on third-party contractors
Client Feedback
“The Wanfeng system transformed our deep shaft operations — reliability, safety, and cost control are far beyond our expectations. Their team worked hands-on from design to deployment, and we are confident in scaling further with them.”
Outlook
Encouraged by this success, the Zimbabwe client is negotiating additional contracts with Wanfeng for conveyor systems, material handling, and automation upgrades across their mining sites. Meanwhile, Wanfeng plans to replicate this integrated project model in other countries with similar deep-mining challenges such as in South America, Southeast Asia, and Central Africa.
