Project: Largescale repair of a CAT 992K loader bucket
Customer: Holcim UK
PROJECT SUMMARY
Miller was commissioned by Holcim UK, to carry out a comprehensive repair of a CAT 992K loader bucket operational at Torr Works, a major limestone quarry located in Somerset. The project involved structural repairs, wear protection enhancements, and cosmetic restoration to extend the bucket’s operational life and ensure it could withstand the demanding conditions of quarry operations.
CHALLENGE
The bucket had sustained significant wear and structural damage from prolonged use in a high-impact environment. Key issues included:
- Cracks along the base edge and top corner.
- Structural failure to the bucket underside skid
Additionally, Holcim required minimal downtime at Torr Works quarry, and a cost-effective solution compared to full replacement.
WHY MILLER
- Over 47 years’ experience in manufacturing, repairing and refurbishing an extensive range of earthmoving & heavy mining equipment;
- Dedicated repair and refurbishment facilities with overhead craneage facilities with high crane lift capabilities;
- Specialist equipment including line boring capability to guarantee precision;
- Highly trained and skilled team comprising specialist skillsets in fabrication, welding, NDT, fitting and line boring;
- Ability to tailor repair services to individual customer needs to provide a bespoke package
- Dedicated transport facilities for heavy equipment and machinery;
- Work Safe with Miller initiative embedded in the culture at Miller ensures a sustainable safety mindset is instilled with individuals at all levels.
SOLUTION
After collection of the bucket and delivery to Miller site, the team performed a full inspection and repaired the bucket, which included:
- Removed all bolt-on GET
- Performed dye penetrant (NDT) testing to identify cracks
- Structural repairs, which included fabricated and installing:
- Full underside skid plate (Hardox® 450)
- Full skid wear plate package (Hardox® 450)
- Welded cracks on the base edge and the top right-hand corner of the bucket
- Wear protection enhancements including new bolt-on GET with new hardware
- Reassembly of the bucket, repainting it in original OEM colours, CAT yellow
- Delivered the fully refurbished bucket back to Torr Works.
KEY ACHIEVEMEMENTS
- Extended Equipment Life:
- Structural and wear protection upgrades significantly increased the bucket’s durability.
- High-Quality Materials:
- Use of Hardox® 450 steel ensured superior wear resistance and strength.
- Cost Efficiency:
- Refurbishment provided a more economical alternative to purchasing a new bucket.
- Quick Turnaround:
- Efficient project execution minimized equipment downtime for the client.
- Customer Satisfaction:
- The bucket was returned in like-new condition, ready for immediate use in demanding quarry operations.
