Americas Gold & Silver
U.S. Silver needed to modernize its hoisting system to enhance performance and reliability while adhering to strict space and shutdown duration constraints.
The outdated hoisting controls required replacement with a new digital drive system tailored to the site’s duty requirements. The challenge was to complete all upgrades during a limited planned shutdown while refurbishing the hoist motor off-site.
SCOPE
Spencer Engineering, BESTECH’s hoisting group, devised a solution that permitted the installation of the new digital drive system without disrupting regular operations before the shutdown. A mezzanine platform was constructed above the existing power and control cabinets, making space for the new equipment without altering the hoistroom footprint. The digital drive was fully installed and pre-commissioned to ensure immediate integration. During the planned outage, the existing motor was removed for refurbishment while the final transition to the new system occurred.
OUTCOME
The project achieved total downtime of less than two weeks, covering motor removal, refurbishment, and reinstallation. The new hoist drive was activated with minimal disruption to operations, and the upgraded system now provides enhanced performance, reliability, and control. By adopting a modular approach, Spencer Engineering facilitated a smooth transition that met the client’s technical and operational requirements.