I-MAK: Gearing Up Africa's Mining Industry

Industrial veteran Bearings International (BI) is bolstering its play in Africa's mining sector with robust offerings from its premium gearbox partner, I-MAK. For over half a century, I-MAK has carved a niche in the global market with its extensive portfolio exceeding 1 million product references. This translates to a diverse range of power transmission solutions catering to virtually every industrial segment.

A Perfect Fit for Demanding Applications

I-MAK's IR Series of Helical gearboxes stands out for its ability to withstand the rigours of pump applications, a mainstay across numerous industries critical to Africa's mining operations. "The IR Series boasts twelve sizes, ranging from 90 Nm to a mighty 18,000 Nm, making it ideal for gear and lube pump machinery," says Kobus Groenewald, Product Leader: Gears, at BI. Designed for effortless installation and removal with an input shaft or direct IEC motor coupling and a standard foot configuration, these gearboxes minimize downtime and maximize production – a significant advantage for cost-conscious mining operations.

Proven Track Record in Key Markets

I-MAK's reputation precedes it, having established itself as a trusted supplier for countless crude oil producers, refineries, and engineering companies. The company is a key player in the Middle Eastern and North American oil & gas sectors, actively involved in major projects across the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. Similarly, SIPCO-I-MAK, situated in Houston, Texas, caters to the US oil industry with a team of dedicated specialists. To meet the specific needs of the North American market, all I-MAK products are available in ATEX configuration, adhering to stringent industry standards.

Tailored Solutions for Africa's Food Chain

Recognizing the growing importance of the food & beverage sector in Africa, I-MAK has prioritized this segment by incorporating features that address the stringent hygiene and food safety regulations. Special, easy-to-wash paints and coatings minimize material deposits and rust, ensuring adherence to the highest hygienic standards. Furthermore, optional food-grade oil and enhanced resistance to high temperatures and harsh environments further mitigate the risk of oil leakage, a critical concern for food production facilities.

A Strategic Alliance for Industrial Growth

"Innovation, quality, and precision are the hallmarks of I-MAK's world-class products," asserts Robert Sillis, General Manager of Product Management at BI. "These affordable solutions come with a robust two-year warranty and exceptional local and international support." BI's strategic partnership with I-MAK forms the cornerstone of its commitment to delivering superior, reliable solutions meticulously tailored to the diverse needs of a multitude of industrial applications in Africa. "The significant local value proposition embodied by I-MAK products aligns perfectly with our mission to enhance production uptime and efficiency, ultimately keeping our customers in motion," concludes Sillis.