Written By: Winnie Mutaghomoka; Freelance Writer
South African-based Aquajet is in pursuit of growing its presence in African countries, where new mining projects are to be launched in 2024. No stranger to the continent, the company is eager to provide waterjet cutting solutions to new clientele.
Aquajet is firmly devoted to continuous innovation in the delivery of suitable waterjet cutting solutions to clients across all industries. The recent introduction of a Jetstream precision water jet cutting machine to its project operations bears testament to this.
Besides the Jetstream, Aquajet owns four OMAX machines as part of its inventory. On equipment quality, Dwayne Carlse, Aquajet’s Sales, Marketing representative, explains that the company selects tried and tested technology for deployment in harsh applications.
Tried and tested technology
AquaJet’s machines are adequately supported by technology partners with three decades of experience and expertise. Internationally acclaimed, the water jet-cutting machines are specially designed for maximum efficiency and accuracy. In addition, durable parts minimise the need for maintenance, which translates to less downtime and machine availability. Onboarding software that enhances automation capabilities and pumps with maximum horsepower complement the machines.
Well-equipped to deliver
The increased capacity of its cutting-edge, tried and tested equipment inventory, coupled with extensive project know-how, augurs well with AquaJet’s plans in 2024. The company is well-equipped to deliver premier waterjet cutting solutions to clients in the African mining sector, where it has spotted potential demand.
“We can fulfill larger orders with a shorter lead time, thanks to our five machines. For instance, in the mining sector, there is limited time available for equipment maintenance, which enables us to complete orders as quickly and efficiently as possible. Even when two or three machines are occupied with orders that cut for more than a whole shift, we are still able to accept more orders.”
Carlse demonstrates the company’s know-how: “We have actively improved our capabilities and knowledge of the vast number of industries we serve on an annual basis. Our experienced staff are always willing to assist, in any way we can. Whether it is only to answer questions about our machines or processes or to troubleshoot problematic areas of designs.”
Opportunities for Waterjet Cutting in Africa
Based on contemporary trends, Aquajet views African mining as a lucrative growth frontier for waterjet cutting. Carlse spells out the company’s plans: “We would like to branch out into the rest of Africa and offer our services to a wider range of companies.”
Current needs in projects necessitate mining companies to seek alternatives to traditional cutting techniques. Just like in other mining operations from pit to port, in cutting, there is a need to use techniques that allow for reducing greenhouse emissions, improving safety, and enhancing efficiency.
Increasingly, it is becoming evident that sole dependence on traditional cutting techniques cannot suffice. Handily, waterjet cutting is emerging as an alternative worth exploring.
Wide scope of benefits
While the convenience of waterjet cutting is beyond question, Carlse assures African mining companies that Aquajet offers a wide scope of benefits. Specifically, he cites the following:
- Aquajet offers no heat distortion on material as its reliable machines do not generate any heat.
- The waterjet cutting process does not produce any hazardous waste and little to no additional finishing is needed on almost all parts that move through the process.
- The waterjet cutting process does not change or alter the composition of the material and keeps the integrity of the piece intact throughout.
- Waterjet cutting also provides better accuracy and lower tolerances.
- The waterjet machines are more resilient than other cutting methods, and there is no need to change or maintain parts nearly as much, which allows the Aquajet technical team to focus solely on the orders.
- Waterjet cutting provides superior edge quality, which is one of the most important reasons why designers specify waterjet cutting when designing components. “Because of the accuracy of the cuts, on up to 300mm thick material, it sets us apart from processes that either cut at a significant kerf of 20-50mm or that distorts the material to a point where the parts are rejected,” Carlse elaborates.
- Granted, waterjet cutting does take longer than other cutting methods. However, where the time-saving facotr is apparent in the post-cutting processes where companies invest a lot of their resources to get the parts up to their standards. “Our goal is to reduce the strain on our customer’s production lines, by producing goods that closely resemble the final design,” Carlse says.
Premier provider of waterjet cutting
Doubtless, engaging Aquajet for waterjet cutting would be a prudent decision. Aquajet has been at the forefront of waterjet cutting in Africa since opening its doors to the public in 2001. Based on excellent delivery in terms of projects, Aquajet has cemented its reputation as a premier provider of waterjet cutting solutions.
Actually, the African mining sector is not a new terrain to Aquajet. The Company has been working with the mining industry since opening in 2001. However, it hasn’t been direct to consumers up until recently. In this quest to build direct relationships with mine operators, it sees value and flexibility as strong points.
Aquajet also has two unique Tilta-jet heads on two of their machines, resulting in a no taper cut or a maximum 10 degree slope, if required. Conversely, the Tilta-jet heads can cut “no-blinding“ holes in screen decks.
AcquaJet aims to directly offer value to potential clients in African mining, mainly through saving costs, time and communication, Carlse spells out. “We understand the time constraints, especially concerning the mining industry, and take pride in our abilities to effectively manage the stringent guide-lines re timeous deliveries and “first time right“ as laid down by the mining industry”
Furthermore, cognisant of the fact that client preferences vary, Aquajet offers flexibility in pricing and lead times, depending on the project-specific requirements which allows clients to fully customise their order. ‘We can cut a wide range of materials, at thicknesses ranging from 0.05mm – 300mm. We also have trusted material suppliers, and all the necessary documentation can be provided for each order. Here at Aquajet we have strong family values and treat our clients with the respect they deserve,” Carlse affirms, adding that the Company is now more perfectly positioned than ever to grow its Project Portfolio in 2024 and beyond.
