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Why 3D Scanning Matters Before Mining Equipment, Conveyor and Chute Upgrades

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Reducing fabrication uncertainty, improving equipment fit-up and supporting mining shutdown planning. The Challenge of Modifying Existing Mining Equipment Mining processing plants rarely remain exactly as they were originally designed. Over time, conveyors are modified, transfer chutes are replaced, platforms are installed and mechanical equipment is upgraded to meet changing production requirements. Unfortunately, the original engineering drawings may not reflect these modifications. For maintenance superintendents, project engineers and shutdown planners, this creates an important question: How can new equipment be designed and fabricated to fit an existing mining plant when the installed geometry is uncertain? One practical solution is to use 3D LiDAR scanning before engineering design begins. Hamilton By Design combines 3D scanning, point cloud processing, mechanical engineering and CAD modelling to support mining equipment modifications across Australia. Read the full engineering ...
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SolidWorks Contractors

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Why You Should Engage SolidWorks Contractors for Engineering Success In today’s competitive engineering landscape, turning ideas into reality quickly and accurately isn’t just a bonus — it’s a necessity. Whether you're refining a prototype, producing detailed manufacturing documentation, or preparing models for fabrication, the right CAD expertise can make all the difference. That’s where SolidWorks contractors step in. But not all contractors are the same and getting engineering outcomes you can trust requires more than just clicking buttons — you need experience, discipline, and a partner who understands both design and engineering . What Makes SolidWorks So Valuable? SolidWorks is one of the world’s most widely adopted 3D CAD platforms — and for good reason: Intuitive interface and powerful modelling tools Parametric design that lets you make changes quickly and confidently Built-in analysis and drawing generation tools Seamless compatibility with manufacturing and fabrication ...
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The Importance of AS 3990 in Mechanical Equipment Steelwork

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AS 3990 in Mechanical Equipment Steelwork In the world of engineering, adhering to standards is more than just a formality; it’s a fundamental aspect of ensuring safety, reliability, and efficiency. One such critical standard is AS 3990, "Mechanical Equipment – Steelwork." This guideline plays a vital role in the design and construction of steel structures for mechanical systems, providing the framework for materials selection, construction practices, and stress analysis. Ignoring AS 3990 can lead to a host of issues, from structural failures to safety hazards, yet it’s a challenge that some organizations still face. By contrast, companies like Hamilton By Design have built a reputation for excellence by consistently applying these standards in their projects, ensuring optimal outcomes for their clients. The Risks of Ignoring AS 3990 One of the most alarming consequences of bypassing AS 3990 is the heightened risk of structural failure. Mechanical equipment steelwork is ofte...
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Maximizing Equipment Efficiency with ISO 18436.2 Maintenance Strategies

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ISO 18436.2 Maintenance Strategies At Hamilton By Design, we know that keeping your equipment running efficiently isn’t just about quick fixes; it’s about adopting the right maintenance strategies to ensure long-term reliability and performance. With advancements in condition monitoring and diagnostic techniques, the ISO 18436.2 standard has become a cornerstone for effective maintenance practices—and it’s at the heart of how we help our clients optimize their operations. In this blog post, we’ll explore the major maintenance strategies aligned with ISO 18436.2 and how they can transform your plant’s productivity. What is ISO 18436.2? ISO 18436.2 is an internationally recognized standard that defines the competencies required for personnel performing condition monitoring and diagnostics. It focuses on advanced tools like vibration analysis, helping engineers identify equipment issues before they lead to costly downtime. At Hamilton By Design, our team is ISO 18436.2-certified, meani...
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Enhancing Plant Efficiency with Best Maintenance Practices: A White Paper by Hamilton By Design

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Enhancing Plant Efficiency with Best Maintenance Practices In today’s competitive industrial landscape, maintaining high levels of Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) is a cornerstone of operational success. Achieving this requires adopting advanced maintenance practices that minimize downtime, reduce operational costs, and extend the lifecycle of critical assets. This white paper outlines best maintenance practices aligned with the ISO 18436.2 standard and highlights how Hamilton By Design's team of mechanical engineers can partner with your organization to enhance your plant’s OEE. By leveraging our expertise in condition-based and predictive maintenance, we can optimize equipment performance and drive measurable improvements in productivity and reliability. The Role of Maintenance in Maximizing OEE OEE is a comprehensive measure of manufacturing productivity, defined by three critical components: Availability: Minimizing downtime to maximize operational hours. Performance:...
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Mechanical Engineering Consultants in the Mining Industry

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 Mechanical Engineering Consultants in the Mining Industry The mining industry, particularly in resource-rich countries like Australia, is a cornerstone of economic activity and development. However, it faces an array of complex challenges including technological advancements, process optimization, and regulatory compliance. Mechanical engineering consultants play a crucial role in helping mining companies navigate these challenges, leveraging their expertise to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. This essay explores the various ways in which mechanical engineering consultants contribute to the mining sector by providing specialized knowledge and solutions in technology, process optimization, and regulatory compliance. Technological Advancements Equipment Design and Selection Automation and Robotics Digitalization and IoT Process Optimization Lean Manufacturing Principles Energy Efficiency Maintenance Optimization Regulatory Compliance Environmental Regulations S...
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Designing Reliable Conveyor Transfers

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 Designing reliable bulk materials conveyor transfer station chutes involves adhering to several key principles to ensure efficient, durable, and safe material handling. Engineers use various software tools to aid in this process, helping to simulate, design, and optimize chute performance. However, despite the available technology and design principles, there are common pitfalls that must be avoided. Here’s an in-depth look into these aspects. Key Principles of Designing Reliable Conveyor Transfer Station Chutes 1. **Material Flow Dynamics:**    - **Controlled Flow:** It's critical to ensure that material flow is smooth and predictable. Chutes should be designed to guide material efficiently from one conveyor to another without causing blockages or excessive wear.    - **Optimal Angles:** The chute's slope must be carefully chosen. Too steep, and material may accelerate too quickly, causing damage; too shallow, and it may not flow freely, leading to blockages. ...
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