RCR Mining Technologies has announced the launch of the Sealed Pan Feeder (SPF), a world-first, industry-leading product redefining the future of apron feeder technology, it says.

Combining the robust elements of an apron feeder with the sealing properties of a belt feeder, RCR has created a two-in-one machine that, it says, offers benefits beyond any traditional apron feeder.

Both the RCR Sealed Pan Feeder and the RCR Apron Feeder boast low-maintenance designs, outperforming alternatives in the market. The Sealed Pan Feeder shares over 90% of its components with the RCR Apron Feeder, ensuring durability while introducing key improvements:

• Enhanced performance: The SPF reduces the need for maintenance outages, offering approximately 50% fewer outages and 39% less tool time over a 15-year period compared with standard, non-RCR apron feeders, the company claims;
• Maximised production: The reduction in maintenance frequency and outage duration translates directly to more ore throughput without increasing the size or speed of the feeder; and
• Cost efficiency: By eliminating the need for dribble conveyors, the SPF delivers more efficient operating costs, addressing carry-back and leakage with its fully sealed and scrapable material-carrying surface.

RCR’s Head of Engineering, Elia Khoury, said the company was thrilled to launch this world-first, next-generation apron feeder that is set to “revolutionise materials handling”.

The SPF has already proven its worth in the field, with Fortescue Metals Group Project Director, Matthew Erceg-Hurn, remarking: “Having the Sealed Pan Feeders means we have a lot more uptime, which means we can keep running tonnes through the plant and produce more revenue as opposed to stopping and maintain the plant more regularly.”

The Sealed Pan Feeder was recently showcased at MINExpo 2024, in Las Vegas, where it garnered significant attention from industry leaders, according to the company, with Alister MacPherson, Head of Strategy, Growth & Innovation at RCR, characterising the interest as “phenomenal”.

Neville Kelly, Business Development Manager at RCR, concluded: “With its superior design and proven benefits, the Sealed Pan Feeder represents the future of apron feeder technology, helping companies maximise production, reduce costs and streamline operations.”