Deciding whether to repair or replace a mining component depends on several factors: the extent of wear or damage, the cost and lead time of a new part, the criticality of the equipment, and whether the component is obsolete.
Repair is usually the better choice when the core structure is sound and only bores, journals or wear surfaces need restoration. Line boring, machining, weld build-up and re-bushing can return a component to specification at a fraction of replacement cost, often much faster than waiting for a new part.
Replacement becomes the better choice when a component is structurally compromised, when repeated repairs are no longer economical, or when an improved design is available. Where a part is obsolete or has an unacceptable lead time, NLC Engineering can also manufacture a replacement through reverse engineering and CNC machining.
The practical approach is to assess the component and weigh repair cost and turnaround against replacement cost and lead time. NLC Engineering helps mining teams make that call every day.