Bulk Handling Technologies Partners With Bonfiglioli to Deliver Robust Lime Slaking Solution to African Gold Mine

Australian materials handling specialist Bulk Handling Technologies (BHT) has engineered a custom lime slaking system featuring a highly loaded ball mill drive, destined for a gold operation in Africa.

To support the mill’s performance requirements, BHT partnered with Bonfiglioli, selecting a heavy-duty gearbox solution capable of handling the extreme loads typical of lime slaking applications.

“Having worked with Bonfiglioli before, we understood that they could provide the necessary equipment quality and service we require when manufacturing such a custom piece of equipment,” says BHT Senior Mechanical Engineer, Sebastien Poulinet.

Engineering for reliability in harsh conditions

Since its establishment in 2012, BHT has specialised in the design and supply of customised materials handling systems for mining operations. Its lime slaking systems - featuring tyre-driven ball mills - are designed to deliver reliable, safe and efficient operation in demanding mining environments.

At the core of the system is the ball mill, where quicklime is combined with water and ground to a fine slurry. This process ensures efficient lime reactivity, enabling stable pH control and improved downstream gold recovery.

Gearbox selection critical to mill performance

According to Mark Beesley, WA State Sales Manager at Bonfiglioli Transmission Australia, gearbox selection is central to achieving reliable mill operation. “The gearbox must transmit very high torque at low speed, while also withstanding the shock loads inherent in ball mill applications,” he explains.

Following consultation with BHT, Bonfiglioli recommended its HDO Series heavy-duty orthogonal shaft gearbox, designed specifically for high-torque, continuous-duty applications in mining.

“We supplied two HDO units, each rated to 25,230 Nm of torque and 117 kW, with a 36:1 ratio to deliver the required mill speed,” says Mark.

Engineering collaboration ensures correct fit and performance

Beyond supply, Bonfiglioli provided detailed engineering support throughout the project.

Sebastien notes that early-stage technical validation was critical, giving them confidence in the gearbox selection: “Bonfiglioli provided engineering information during the quotation stages to confirm gearbox output shaft sizes, bearing life, mechanical and thermal safety factors. Afterward they provided 3D models and drawings which were critical to ensuring correct fit of their gearbox within the mill envelope”.

Proven partnership for demanding applications

The project reinforces the long-standing collaboration between the two companies, built on delivering reliable solutions for challenging mining environments.

“We pride ourselves on supplying quality, robust equipment for challenging mine sites,” says Sebastien. “Bonfiglioli are only one of a few industrial gearbox suppliers we trust to supply equipment matching our requirements.