Beyond Steel: How Plastics Are Shaping the Future of Mining

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From on-site mining services to application development, Dotmar's team of qualified engineers and material specialists are dedicated to understanding your unique challenges and providing tailored solutions in engineering materials for mineral ore, oil and gas, and hard rock mining operations. 

In the rugged and demanding world of mining, durability, reliability, and efficiency are paramount. Traditionally, mining has been heavily associated with steel and other heavy metals, but in recent years, a new versatile range of materials have emerged – engineering plastics. With their exceptional and unique properties, engineering plastics are reshaping the landscape of the mining industry, offering solutions that regularly equal & often surpass those of conventional materials.

The versatility of engineering plastics is extraordinary. Resistant to wear & abrasion, harsh chemicals, extreme heat, and galvanic corrosion, these materials have the potential to outperform their traditional counterparts in certain applications. What sets engineering plastics apart are their unique properties: from fire retardancy and anti-static capabilities to exceptionally low coefficients of friction and self-lubricating properties. In the unforgiving environment of mining, these characteristics are not just desirable but essential. 
 
Plastics come in many varieties, boasting a remarkable array of properties that make them indispensable in modern operations.  

Take, for instance, Acetal (Ertacetal), renowned for its exceptional wear resistance and low friction coefficients, making it ideal for components subjected to high stress and repetitive motion.  

Then there's Nylon (Ertalon/Nylatron), prized for its strength, toughness, and self-lubricating properties, perfect for bearings and bushings in heavy-duty machinery.  

HDPE (Polystone P300 & Polystone PG100) with its corrosion resistance and durability, finds its niche in chemical tanks and conveyor systems, ensuring reliable performance in harsh environments. 

UHMWPE (Polystone 7000) stands out for its flow promotion benefits combined with high resistance to wear & abrasion, making it the material of choice for bulk material handling infrastructure such as chutes and hoppers.  

Meanwhile, PEEK (Ketron PEEK), a high-performance thermoplastic, offers exceptional mechanical and chemical resistance, making it indispensable for components exposed to extreme temperatures and corrosive substances.

These are just a few examples of the vast array of plastics Dotmar Engineering Plastics specialises in.

Dotmar boasts the largest assortment of engineering plastics across Australia and New Zealand. Their products are specifically designed to thrive in the harsh conditions of mining operations, including mineral ore, oil and gas, and hard rock mining. Dotmar specializes in: 

• Acetal/Delrin (Ertacetal) 
• Nylon (Ertalon/Nylatron) 
• HDPE (Polystone P300) 
• UHMWPE (Polystone 7000) 
• PEEK 
• Acrylic 
• Polycarbonate 
• PTFE 
• PVC 
• Duratron (PEI, PAI, PI, PBI)

From sacrificial wear parts to mechanical components, Dotmar offers solutions that improve lifespan, reduce maintenance, and enhance productivity.

Dotmar's capabilities extend beyond supplying materials. With machining capabilities across 8 locations in ANZ, Dotmar can produce finished simple to complex parts from even the most challenging engineering plastics. Their machining capabilities include: 

• Spindle Moulding 
• Stamping 
• Routing 
• Laser Cutting 
• Milling 
• CNC Turning 
• Waterjet Cutting 
• Injection Moulding

Their expert machinists are trained to work with a wide range of materials, ensuring that your specific needs are met with precision and efficiency. 

Additionally, Dotmar offers a wide array of Polystone Matrox Flow Promotion Liners, scientifically engineered to reduce hang-up and carryback by up to 30% in crucial mining equipment like chutes, hoppers, and trucks. Dotmar provides a comprehensive system, including specialised fastening systems and full installation support, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance.

Dotmar stands as the foremost representative of ISO9001-accredited, semi-finished thermoplastic manufacturers, renowned for their quality and reliability. Moreover, Dotmar's FRAS materials adhere to MDG308 specifications, making them compliant and safe for use in underground coal mines. 

With over 50 years of expertise, Dotmar Engineering Plastics stands tall as the leading provider of end-to-end solutions for the mining industry. Dotmar isn't just a supplier; they are a strategic partner dedicated to helping you thrive in the dynamic world of mining. With their unrivalled expertise, comprehensive solutions, and commitment to excellence, Dotmar is poised to lead the industry - and your company - into a new era of innovation and efficiency.