WireCo has introduced the UNION Gladiator Shield protection system, a patent-pending solution engineered to safeguard shovel hoist ropes from rock damage and abrasion in surface mining operations.
Designed for use with WireCo’s Tuf Max and Gladiator Hoist ropes, the Gladiator Shield protection system is applied to the rope section directly above the dipper, the area most exposed to falling debris during loading. The Shield protects the polymer and outer wires to help extend rope longevity; it is available in diameters from 2-1/4 to 2-7/8 inches for high-performance hoist rope systems.
“Customers have pointed out for years that the section of rope over the dipper takes a beating from rockfall. Our Gladiator Shield protection system addresses that challenge head-on with a practical, factory-installed layer of protection,” said Mark Blankenship, Mining Product manager at WireCo.
“By protecting the rope where damage happens most often, we are helping mines improve rope life and reduce costly, unplanned downtime.”
Currently at the patent-published stage in the United States, the Gladiator Shield protection system demonstrates WireCo’s commitment to investing in original engineering that addresses long-standing industry challenges. The company is also evaluating other potential applications for the technology, including static locations on shovels and draglines that experience high abrasion.