First Africa Guide

01/06/2026

Pneumatic solutions offer versatility, operational safety and efficiency in many sectors

Compressed air has become a cornerstone of industrial productivity in many sectors, including automation, materials handling, mining, manufacturing, food processing and automotive assembly operations.

Pneumatic systems, which use compressed air to transmit and control energy, are widely valued for their versatility, operational safety and efficiency. In manufacturing, pneumatic actuators, cylinders and control systems play a vital role in automating repetitive processes, enhancing precision and improving production throughout the industry.

The food processing and agricultural sectors also depend heavily on pneumatic technologies, from conveying systems and packaging machinery to hygienic air handling applications. In automotive manufacturing and heavy industrial assembly, pneumatic tools, clamps and control systems contribute to fast, repeatable and efficient production processes.

In mining environments, these systems are used in both underground and surface applications, where robust and dependable performance is essential.

“As companies prioritise efficiency, reliability and safer production environments, access to high-quality pneumatic systems and dependable technical support has become increasingly important,” says Storme Loots, BMG Pneumatics, Fluid Technology - Low Pressure division. “BMG has reinforced its position in this critical sector through our comprehensive pneumatics offering, supplying engineered solutions designed to support the operational demands of diverse industries throughout Africa. As an authorised partner of Festo, BMG combines access to globally recognised pneumatic technologies with local application expertise and technical support.

“A key differentiator for BMG in the local market is our ability to not only to supply quality components, but to also provide the technical expertise needed to specify, integrate and maintain increasingly sophisticated pneumatic systems.”

BMG’s pneumatics portfolio encompasses core components required to build and maintain efficient compressed air systems. These include air preparation and treatment equipment, including compressors, dryers, filters, regulators and lubricators, that ensure clean, dry and controlled air delivery. The range also comprises pneumatic actuators and cylinders, including single-acting, double-acting, guided and rodless variants for linear and rotary motion applications.

Flow control and directional management are also critical in modern automated systems. Solenoid valves, manual control valves and proportional flow control solutions ensure precise machine sequencing and operational consistency. Supporting these systems are high-quality fittings, tubing and connectors, designed to minimise leakage and maintain long-term performance.

According to BMG, the engineering sector’s continued investment in automation, uptime optimisation and energy-efficient technologies, presents significant opportunities for pneumatic solutions that combine global pneumatic innovation, product quality and local technical support.
BBMG

29/05/2026

Electric forklifts combine operational efficiency with industrial durability

Criterion Equipment’s TCM FB-9 series of electric counterbalance forklifts is engineered for highly productive, lower-emission alternatives to internal combustion equipment, without compromising performance.

This sit-down electric range – available from Criterion Equipment in capacities from 1.0 to 3.5 tonnes – is designed for demanding warehouse, distribution and manufacturing environments, where manoeuvrability, uptime and operating efficiency are critical.

“As more operations re-assess fleet economics and sustainability targets, battery technology has become critical to electric forklift performance,” says Brenton Kemp, Managing Director of Criterion Equipment, exclusive distributors of TCM forklift trucks in Southern Africa. “We believe by selecting the correct battery technology, businesses can significantly reduce total operating costs, while using newer lithium-ion systems in suitable applications offers faster charging, lower maintenance requirements and reduced downtime, compared with conventional alternatives.

“However, the focus of the TCM FB-9 range is broader than the battery alone: these flexible forklifts offer a complete materials handling solution, designed around productivity, operator safety, long-term durability and care for the environment.”

The TCM FB-9 range combines robust construction with intelligent energy management. A reinforced integrated frame and cast steel rear bumper are designed to withstand the knocks and impacts common in busy industrial operations. The IPX4-rated water-resistant body enables reliable operation in challenging outdoor conditions, where exposure to rain or splashing water may be unavoidable.

Operational stability is enhanced through a low centre-of-gravity design, which is achieved through battery positioning and axle configuration that minimise weight shift during travel and turning. The result is smoother handling, improved balance and greater operator control, particularly in fast-paced logistics environments.

Energy efficiency is a key advantage of this range. TCM’s regenerative system recovers energy during multiple operating functions, including braking, deceleration and directional changes, helping to extend runtime between charges. An ECO mode provides an additional efficiency setting for less demanding operating conditions, while an automatic power-off function helps prevent unnecessary battery drain during periods of inactivity.

Operator productivity has also been prioritised through adaptable performance settings. The FB-9 range allows users to select Power, Normal or Custom operating modes, enabling the truck’s travel, lift and tilt response characteristics to be matched to the operator’s experience level and specific application requirements. This versatility accommodates the needs of both experienced operators seeking responsive performance and less experienced users who may prefer smoother, more measured handling characteristics.

Criterion Equipment believes safety and productivity must go hand in hand in modern warehouse operations. TCM FB-9 forklifts incorporate important safety features, including an Operation Interlock System, which disables travel and load handling functions when the operator is not correctly seated. Other safety features include speed management controls, anti-rollback functionality on inclines and automatic torque adjustment for easier operation under load.

Operator comfort is also important to the TCM design team. Reduced vibration during travel helps minimise fatigue over long shifts, while optional visibility-enhancing features, like LED lighting packages and rear warning systems, improve workplace awareness in busy or low-visibility environments.

With growing pressure on businesses to improve operational efficiency while reducing emissions and lifecycle costs, electric forklift technology has become increasingly important in materials handling. Criterion Equipment’s TCM FB-9 electric forklift trucks offer customers a practical electric solution that balances performance, durability and energy-conscious operation.

Criterion Equipment’s extensive range of TCM forklift trucks includes Internal Combustion (IC) counter-balance trucks, electric counter-balance trucks and reach trucks, as well as stackers and powered/manual pallet trucks. Mast configurations vary from standard two stage 3 m masts to high-reach three stage masts.

The company supports these machines with a technical advisory, spare parts, repair and maintenance service to ensure optimum performance from every machine.

Criterion Equipment

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25/05/2026

BMG celebrates its new facility at Nampo Park

Nampo 2026 was extra special for BMG, as the team celebrated this year’s show in its new home at Nampo Park in Bothaville.

“We first exhibited at Nampo 12 years ago in a small tent with a few hay bales and this year we launched our own world-class facility that showcases a broad range of agricultural products,” explains Darryn Wright, Group Marketing Executive, BMG. “This year we focused on customised solutions for farmers to efficiently ‘power up’ their farms. Our new building showcased BMG’s advanced product offering, which is enhanced by technical expertise and dependable support throughout Africa.

“Quality-branded products include bearings and seals, power transmission components, light industry conveyors, tools and fasteners, hydraulics and fluid technology, as well as electronics equipment. We also had working demonstrations of equipment and a few exciting challenges that enabled us to interact closely with our valued farming customers.

“We also highlighted our BMG BoerSlim/Smart Farming programme, which encourages farmers to embrace the efficient application of the latest trends and technologies for cost-effective farming, low maintenance and minimal downtime. We understand how important it is for farmers to have easy access to every tool and component they require, which is why BMG makes sure its branch and distributor network is well stocked.

“As part of our Smart-Farming initiative, we assist farmers with cost-efficient electro-mechanical solutions to improve crop production output and enhance efficiencies. We work with farmers to conserve power consumption and minimise downtime by implementing practical maintenance programmes.”

“We have also expanded our service to farmers in remote areas in the Eastern Cape, with the launch of a new mobile sales and support initiative.

“The new BMG Toolbox on the Move van is kitted out with essential technical support tools and brings products, technical expertise and on-site support directly to customers in many industries, including agriculture, automotive, wind energy, construction and general workshops.

A key advantage of Toolbox on the Move, is that farmers - with assistance from BMG’s technical experts - are able to evaluate products first-hand, reducing uncertainty in component selection and saving valuable time that would otherwise be spent travelling to a branch.

Although this new mobile service is currently only available in the Eastern Cape, BMG plans to extend this service to other regions.

On display this year was a wide range of BMG’s agricultural products, including power tools, Gates harvester belts, BTC Lemken harrow discs and hub bearing units. Also on show were solar panel operated Variable Speed Drive (VSD) units that improve energy efficiency in irrigation pumping.

BMG addresses the urgent requirement for improved diesel and fuel engine efficiency through a wide range of lubricants developed to improve performance of agricultural equipment and machinery. These additives effectively minimise operating costs and reduce maintenance requirements in harsh, dusty farming conditions.

New to this range is the Liqui Moly Super Diesel Additive – a high-performance additive which combines cleaning, dispersing and material-protection agents with cetane number improvers. This integrated approach enhances ignition performance, resulting in more efficient combustion, particularly during cold starts, while also reducing exhaust odours and emissions.

Through BMG’s partnership with SKF Automotive, the company supplies the automotive sector, heavy-duty fleet operators and workshops with premium SKF Wheel Bearings that deliver quality, performance, safety and durability on the road.

BMG’s user-friendly online shopping platform is highly popular with farmers, as a convenient way to procure engineering and agricultural products. This digital shopping portal adds value to BMG’s service offering and makes shopping for engineering components even easier – especially with rising fuel costs. Online shopping enhances convenience for farmers, who still have the assurance of technical support and personal care from BMG specialists.

Apart from live and interactive demonstrations and competitions, fun competitions were held each day where visitors to our stand got the chance to test their strength, speed and skills in gruelling lock-and-tool challenges.

A highlight for visitors to Nampo each year is BMG’s distinctive range of exclusive BoerSlim clothing, which includes hunting jackets, ‘twaksak’ shorts and cargo pants.
BMG

13/05/2026

Set for Nampo 2026

The BMG team is participating at Nampo 2026 – the largest agricultural expo held annually at Nampo Park, Bothaville. This year’s event takes place from 12 to 15 May and visitors will find BMG at its usual stand, C26, in a new building.

BMG is showcasing a wide range of carefully selected, quality-branded agricultural products, including bearings and seals, power transmission components, light industry conveyors, tools and fasteners, hydraulics and fluid technology, as well as all electronics equipment. There are working demonstrations of technologically advanced products, that form part the company’s eco-friendly initiatives to boost farming efficiencies.

“Nampo provides the perfect opportunity for the BMG team to collaborate with the local farming community, to keep abreast with exact requirements and changing agri-trends,” says Darryn Wright, Group Marketing Executive, BMG. “Our agriculture team focuses on making life easier for farmers and helping them achieve high efficiencies and optimum productivity, in all sectors of agriculture. Through BMG’s BoerSlim/Smart Farming programme, we encourage farmers to embrace advancements in agricultural machinery. Our sustainable solutions focus on effective food production, the correct use of appropriate equipment and the efficient application of the latest trends and technologies.

We understand how important it is for farmers to have easy access to every tool and component they require – exactly when they need it – which is why BMG makes sure its branch and distributor network is well stocked.”

A highlight for visitors to Nampo each year is BMG’s distinctive range of exclusive BoerSlim clothing, which includes hunting jackets, ‘twaksak’ shorts and cargo pants.

Apart from live and interactive demonstrations and competitions, the BMG stand is also well known by Nampo visitors for its warm hospitality and freshly brewed coffee. BMG

21/04/2026

Self-tensioning system improves pump reliability in tough operations

OST-Africa has developed the Efficiency Base (E-Base) system, which is a precision-engineered belt drive base system, developed to optimise tension, alignment and efficiency in pump and motor applications in mining and heavy industry.

“Our robust E-Base system is a self-tensioning base, designed for pump applications with V-belt drives, to ensure precise belt alignment and reduced energy losses. The E-Base was designed in response to persistent and costly drive-alignment problems reported by pump-station maintenance teams,” says Chantelle Scheepers, Marketing Manager of OST-Africa, specialists in the design and manufacture of screen, transmission and materials handling products. “Companies are under pressure to reduce operating costs, streamline maintenance and extend the service life of critical equipment. Yet many operations are struggling with the effects of poor preventative maintenance, which leads to inefficient pump performance, higher operating costs and compromised system efficiency.

“Drive-belt inefficiency is a leading cause of production loss, unplanned repairs and energy waste in demanding environments. Industry studies and OST-Africa field data show that improper tensioning and misalignment account for up to 40 % of belt failures and a significant share of motor-bearing damage.

“The E-Base is more than just a tensioning system - it is a complete solution that ensures optimum belt alignment and tension throughout operation. This system also reduces premature belt failure and transmission losses and eliminates the need for repeated re-alignment during belt replacement. The E-Base saves time with quick, safe belt changes and because this is a modular system with minimal parts, it is easy to maintain, operate and upgrade. Configurations include overhead, side, reverse overhead and reverse side mount, offering flexibility for different plant layouts.”

The closed base design prevents slurry and chemical build-up, while integrated rubber compression elements absorb shock loads and automatically compensate for belt stretch. Units are available in mechanical and hydraulic configurations, each designed for quick installation using chemical anchors and integral lifting lugs.

The E-Base ensures repeatable alignment accuracy and tension control, even under variable load conditions, helping operators meet reliability and energy-efficiency targets. Maintenance crews report that the split safety guards, with inspection slides, provide easy access to pulleys and V-belts. This design enhances safety and simplifies routine checks and alignment verification.

Each assembly is manufactured in South Africa to ISO 9001 vibration and motor-mounting standards and is fully compatible with OST-Africa’s range of belt-drive tensioning and monitoring products.

OST-Africa’s products are supported by specialised design and supervision teams, which ensure custom-built systems provide a reliable solution for improved uptime, safety compliance and extended service life of equipment.

16/04/2026

Tough excavators for tough tasks

HPE Africa's Hyundai HX300SL crawler excavators are robust and versatile machines, designed to deliver dependable performance in many demanding industries, including construction, mining, quarrying and earthmoving applications.

Built on Hyundai's HX series, HX300SL excavators have been engineered to enhance productivity, durability and fuel efficiency. The main design focus of these machines is on productivity, durability and fuel efficiency. The range incorporates Variable Power Control, Intelligent Power Control, Eco gauge monitoring and an improved cooling system to enhance efficient operation in demanding conditions.

HX300SL excavators incorporate advanced hydraulic and engine management technologies that optimise power delivery according to operating conditions. Advanced features help contractors maintain strong digging and loading performance, while reducing unnecessary fuel consumption.

The Hyundai HX300SL crawler excavator is equipped with a six-cylinder turbocharged Hyundai HM8.3 engine delivering a gross power of 186 kW (250 hp). The HX300SL has a standard 1.27 m³ bucket (SAE heaped) and an operating weight of 30,2 ton.

Hyundai's Variable Power Control (VPC) is central to the excavator's operating efficiency, allowing operators to manually select from three power modes to match site requirements. Power (P) mode maximises speed and power output for heavy-duty work, Standard (S) mode balances performance and fuel efficiency for general operations and Economy (E) mode optimises control for lighter tasks.

Durability is another key design feature of the HX300SL series. This robust excavator features a reinforced upper and lower frame structure, designed to withstand shock loads and intensive operating conditions often encountered on construction and mining sites.

Hyundai has also strengthened critical wear components, including pins, bushes and attachment interfaces, to reduce maintenance requirements, extend service life and ensure optimum performance over long operating periods. The machine features a new three-layer cooling system designed to increase airflow and heat dissipation.

Intelligent Power Control (IPC) complements the VPC by adding an additional layer of efficiency and convenience. The IPC controls power depending on the work environment. Operators can select and release the mode via the monitor and in excavation mode, pump flow is controlled by a lever, reducing fuel consumption.

The eco gauge - a real-time digital display - provides operators with actionable data to help reduce daily operating costs. The detailed menu shows engine torque and fuel efficiency levels, as well as average fuel consumption rate, total fuel consumed and hourly and daily fuel usage.

In harsh environments in Africa, where machines endure high ambient temperatures, dusty conditions and intensive duty cycles, hydraulic hose failure is a common maintenance issue. To combat these problems, this series has been engineered with high-pressure hoses that offer improved heat and pressure resistance, ensuring greater durability and longer service life.

Operator comfort and safety are enhanced through a cab suspension mount that uses a coil spring and damper system to reduce vibration and noise in the cabin, helping to minimise operator fatigue.

The machine also features an intelligent wide cluster with an 8-inch touchscreen display, while the ventilation system is designed to direct warm and cool airflow to the operator’s face, body and feet for greater comfort and higher productivity.

With the combination of reinforced structural durability, intelligent power management and operator-focused design, Hyundai HX300SL crawler excavators meet the requirements as a high-productivity crawler excavator for demanding working environments. Typical applications include large construction projects, quarry and aggregate loading, bulk earthmoving, pipeline and infrastructure work, as well as mining support operations.

Through HPE Africa's extensive distribution and support network, customers also benefit from access to technical expertise, service support and parts availability across the region.
https://www.hpeafrica.co.za/
HPE Africa

16/04/2026

Standardised IGU components ensure high efficiency and reduced lead times

BMG has recently introduced the Next Generation Hansen I4 Industrial Gear Units (IGUs) which have been developed for safe and efficient use in tough mining and conveying applications.

These compact, invertible Hansen I4 units are engineered to deliver high torque capacity, dimensional accuracy and operational reliability in both underground and surface applications, while ensuring minimal maintenance requirements and extended service life.

Important advantages of the Next Generation Hansen I4 programme - which combines cost optimisation with retained design integrity - include reduced lead times and OEM-backed technical support throughout Africa.

“By standardising the core materials required in key Hansen I4 models, we are able to improve supply efficiency, while maintaining the original torque ratings, gear geometry and bearing performance required for heavy-duty mining and conveying applications,” explains Barry Stoltz, BMG’s Gears Regional Manager, Electro-Mechanical division. “The result is a robust and reliable unit that conforms with Hansen’s global design standards and technical specifications, but with improved availability for operations throughout the African continent.

“BMG has streamlined production and supply processes, reducing delivery lead times to a maximum of four weeks. This shorter turnaround time supports plant uptime strategies for our customers, where conveyor availability is directly linked to output and revenue.”

The revised I4 platform incorporates a standardised bill of materials across the core RDD, RDE and RDF configurations, with gear ratios between 16:1 and 35:1. This rationalisation enables bulk procurement of critical components, including bearings, seals, spacers, nilos rings, bolts and nuts. As a result, accessibility and cost-efficiency are improved, with no compromise on performance, even in arduous conditions. Local sourcing further strengthens supply continuity for the African market.

The Hansen I4 is built around precision-manufactured helical gearing and designed to AGMA-rated standards to balance high torque density with controlled noise levels. High torque geometry is applied to low-speed gears, while high-speed stages are configured to reduce noise emission. Detailed service factor and operating life calculations underpin the shaft and bearing design, ensuring suitability for continuous-duty conveyor and mining drives.

Installation flexibility is a core feature of the Hansen I4 range. The gearbox can be inverted through 180 degrees to accommodate left- or right-hand drive arrangements, reducing inventory requirements and simplifying plant layout. A robust horizontally split housing facilitates easy inspection and maintenance, while horizontal or vertical shaft configurations provide adaptability for different mechanical interfaces. Hansen’s Oil-Lock sealing arrangement ensures long-term oil retention and reduced contamination risk in abrasive environments.

As the official OEM for Hansen gearboxes in Southern Africa, BMG is authorised to repair Hansen IGUs in accordance with the manufacturer’s documented procedures, maintaining original tolerances and operating specifications. Every unit undergoes detailed incoming inspection, full disassembly and dimensional verification of housings, shafts and gears before reassembly to factory-defined clearances. Bearings and seals are replaced as standard, fasteners are torqued to specified values and gear contact patterns are verified to meet correct mesh alignment requirements.

No gearbox is released before a controlled running test confirms mechanical, thermal and lubrication performance, including checks on temperature, noise and oil tightness.

BMG’s Next Generation Hansen I4 range meets the requirements of customers seeking a standardised, high-torque cost-efficient IGU, with reduced lead times and local OEM-backed technical support.
BMG

16/04/2026

Lubricant and feed gear pumps for heavy-duty lubrication systems

BMG’s Fluid Technology division continues to strengthen its lubrication systems offering to heavy industry in Africa, through the supply and technical support of a wide range of quality branded fluid technology equipment.

A key range of pumps supplied by BMG is the Steimel SF series lubricant and feed gear pumps, developed for continuous-duty oil circulation, transfer and conditioning applications. These pumps are widely used in oil lubrication systems, including kidney filtration circuits and oil transfer duties, where stable, pulsation-free flow is critical to system reliability and equipment protection.

Typical applications for Steimel gear pump technology are in mining, power generation, steel production and general industrial environments.

“The SF series has been designed to handle a wide range of lubricating oils, including high-viscosity grades, ensuring smooth and quiet operation. The design allows for the efficient pumping of media with limited lubricity, provided chemical compatibility is ensured and solids are absent, making the pumps suitable for demanding industrial lubrication environments,” explains Joe Pinheiro, BMG’s National Product Manager, Pumps. “The SF range has a compact mechanical design that allows for easy disassembly and reassembly, to ensure effortless maintenance in the field.

“Steimel SF pumps are supplied by BMG with clockwise rotation as standard. This can be reversed by repositioning the end cover plate, simultaneously changing the delivery flow direction. For added system protection, an adjustable pressure relief valve can be integrated into the pump housing to safeguard against pressure surges.”

In standard configurations, SF pumps operate at rotational speeds up to 1 800 rpm, supporting viscosities up to 380 cSt at differential pressures of 25 bar.

In more demanding applications, these pumps are able to handle media with viscosities ranging from 5 to 50 000 cSt and withstand temperatures between –40 °C and +250 °C, with permissible speeds adjusted according to fluid characteristics. BMG also offers ATEX-certified SF pumps for use in potentially explosive environments.

Operational stability is enhanced through precision integration of pinions and gear wheels, reducing internal tolerances and contributing to low-noise, low-pulsation performance. The use of 12-tooth gear wheels further minimises delivery fluctuations, while composite bearing bushes ensure continuous operation and extended service life. In applications which impose higher mechanical loads, pump sizes can be configured with anti-friction bearings at the drive end to accommodate combined radial and axial forces.

To enhance the SF series, BMG supplies Steimel T-series feed pumps, which are rotary gear pumps, designed for the transfer of different media, at pressures up to 16 bar and rotational speeds up to 1 500 rpm. In addition, Steimel Model B pumps are available for applications involving highly fluid media, like waste oils, greases, hydraulic and hardening oils, resins and thermal oils. These units offer excess pressure capability up to 50 bar, with displacements ranging from 2 to 75 cm³ per revolution.

The BMG Fluid Technology team provides a technical advisory service focused on correct pump selection and system integration for specific operating conditions. This capability is supported by a spares and maintenance service and a distribution network across South Africa and into neighbouring territories, including Zambia, the DRC, Eswatini, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia and Tanzania.
BMG

16/04/2026

Predictive maintenance and expert support now available to the bottling industry

BMG’s Power Transmission division is now offering the food and beverage sector access to Regal Rexnord's Premium Services package, which has been developed to improve production line efficiency and minimise costly downtime in demanding manufacturing environments.

BMG’s Regal Rexnord's Premium Services programme provides glass, bottling and beverage manufacturers with expert audits, predictive maintenance capabilities and comprehensive on-site training to optimise conveyor system performance. This proactive approach helps facilities maintain continuous operations, while reducing unexpected equipment failures that can halt production lines.

“Our Premium Services package represents a significant advancement in how we support our food and beverage customers,” explains Carlo Beukes, Business Unit Manager of BMG’s Power Transmission division. “By combining predictive maintenance with expert technical support and easy access to replacement parts, we're helping manufacturers protect their production schedules and improve overall equipment effectiveness.

“Regal Rexnord's Premium Services align perfectly with BMG’s commitment to providing comprehensive solutions that go beyond simply supplying equipment. Our customers in the food, beverage and glass manufacturing sectors face intense pressure to maintain production schedules, while managing costs. Through our Premium Services offering, we're able to deliver predictive maintenance strategies, expert technical audits and training that transform how our customers approach equipment management.

“The Regal Rexnord Data Portal integration means our customers can identify and order the exact components they require quickly and accurately, reducing inventory carrying costs, while ensuring they have critical parts available when required.”

Conveying solutions for demanding applications

BMG’s comprehensive Regal Rexnord portfolio for the beverage industry includes integrated hot and cold end conveying solutions specifically engineered for the demanding conditions of glass and container manufacturing. The company provides a full range of product conveying systems, complemented by an expanding portfolio of PowerTrain solutions.

The product range features TableTop chains, with precision-engineered steel and plastic construction, that deliver excellent flatness and surface finish, ensuring efficient product handling, reduced container tipping and extended operational life. MatTop belts are designed for enhanced container stability and reduced product damage, helping manufacturers maintain product integrity and minimise waste during the conveying process.

The Dynamic Transfer System (DTS) enables smooth and reliable transfer of delicate or unstable containers, minimising breakage, while ensuring consistent line performance. Superior chain-sprocket interaction is achieved through optimised engagement design which extends chain life and reduces maintenance downtime. These features improve overall equipment efficiency, while lowering operational costs.

Specialised solutions for abrasive environments

For glass container manufacturing applications where abrasion resistance is critical, BMG recommends Rexnord BWX material - a specially formulated solution engineered specifically for chains exposed to glass shards, sand, dirt and other harsh particles. BWX material can extend chain wear life up to five times, compared to standard acetal materials, delivering superior Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) in high-wear environments.

BWX is available from BMG in multiple chain types, including MatTop and TableTop configurations, as well as side-flexing chains for curved conveyor sections.

The polyamide-based material offers high wear resistance with minimal dust generation, suitable for demanding loads and speeds in highly abrasive, dry applications, with glass contact temperatures up to 85° C.

BMG’s key products for hot end and cold end applications in glass manufacturing facilities include the Rexnord 7005 Series MatTop Chain, the Rexnord 1005 Series MatTop Chain and the Rexnord 1055 Series, which is a high-strength plastic tabletop chain, designed for heavy-duty conveying applications.

The Rexnord 820/880 Series provides smooth, low-friction conveying ideal for handling delicate glass containers, while the Rexnord XLBP1005 Series delivers the lowest backline pressure when conveying cartons or trays of glass containers. The Compound Balanced (CB5) metal belt system features thicker wires that provide high strength, a smoother surface and improved tracking and stability, while the DiaCrimp (DCF) design reduces belt stretch by approximately 90 %.

Regal Rexnord power transmission components - enhanced by the Premium Services package - are available through BMG's Power Transmission division for food, beverage and glass manufacturing customers throughout Africa.
BMG