Vesconite sliding wear pads were first demonstrated as effective alternatives to steel, bronze, and nylon in drill rigs over 20 years ago.
The first drill rig to use Vesconite sliding wear pads exemplifies the material’s durability and effectiveness.
The Vesconite wear plates, measuring 300 mm (11.8″) long, 40 mm (1.5″) wide, and 40 mm thick (1.5”), were installed on an underground hydraulic drill rig. They were required to provide a guide for the rock drill components.
Despite operating in the extreme conditions of South African gold mines—where quartzite’s abrasiveness and the corrosive effects of underground water can quickly wear traditional materials—Vesconite abrasion-resistant wear pads easily handled these harsh conditions.
The Vesconite wear plates fully met design specifications over a four-year period, during which the test rig drilled over 20,000 meters.
Vesconite was also shown to resist deformation or creep under pulsating conditions. While many materials can suffer from “flowing” or warping under such stresses, Vesconite proved its ability to maintain its shape and performance over time. This resistance to creep made it particularly well-suited for the drill rig application, where loads are regularly applied.
Vesconite continues to be trialled and used in drill rigs, showcasing its versatility and long-lasting benefits in mining and construction.
Vesconite Bearings remains committed to advancing wear-resistant technology, helping to extend the lifespan of machinery operating in some of the harshest environments while reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency for its customers.
