Siwertell upgrade secures agribulk productivity

(Posted on 04/02/21)

Bruks Siwertell has won a service order for the total replacement of the electrical control system, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), on one of two Siwertell 490-M type ship unloaders that serve the diversified agribulk company, Flour Mills of Nigeria, in Apapa Port, Lagos, Nigeria.

The unloaders, delivered in 2001 and 2007, are owned by Flour Mills of Nigeria. “They are very well maintained machines, and the owner and operator put a lot of emphasis on ensuring their peak condition,” explains Martin Sabel, Siwertell Electrical Surveyor, Bruks Siwertell. “This proactive approach to service meant that last year, we were approached by Flour Mills of Nigeria to initiate plans for the replacement of the electrical system on the 2007-delivered unloader, which is a refurbished machine, re-built to handle grain instead of cement. A follow-up visit revealed that the unloader’s existing PLC systems had become obsolete.”

Both units have a rated capacity of 800t/h and are key machines, securing the import of grains for Lagos’ buoyant pasta manufacturing industry, which serves local and international markets.

“The two ship unloaders are still in good condition, after around 40,000 hours in operation, but exporting parts and support to this site in Nigeria can be a challenge with different regulations and long lead times. Therefore, forward-thinking when it comes to maintenance is a good strategy,” notes Sabel. “This is especially important as the unloaders ensure almost continuous pasta production.”

The electrical control system upgrade will not only secure one unloader’s continued reliability and performance, but also, as any removed parts will be tested and kept as spares for use on the second unloader, the work maximizes its service life as well.

“Flour Mills of Nigeria and Bruks Siwertell have a long-standing relationship, built on mutual trust and the knowledge that any work carried out is beneficial for both the customer and supplier,” says Sabel. “Some of the unloader’s components had become obsolete and hard to find on the market, so replacing the existing system with a new one, ensures many more successful years of operation, and the second unloader benefits from the spares.”

By using genuine Siwertell parts and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) service, any new components seamlessly integrate into the existing system and functions, guaranteeing the very best performance. “A further advantage is that we are very familiar with the equipment and how it is used, which will add to the smooth conclusion of the project,” he adds.

Bruks Siwertell estimates that the preliminary installation schedule will be approximately 25 days and is planned to be carried out towards the end of 2021.