High quality conveyor pulleys are crucial in assuring the reliability of material handling systems. Once they begin to wear, project managers are faced with an important decision: refurbish or replace?
Refurbishment has long been seen as the lower-cost option. But for many operations, the reality is full replacement is a safer, more reliable and more economical solution.
At Promet, we specialise in conveyor pulley replacements for the mining and resources sector. Partnered with a trusted supplier who can provide customised options, we believe it delivers long-lasting results, reduces downtime and can be done at a price lower than many refurbishment options. Here's how.
Refurbishment typically involves processes such as re-lagging, re-machining or replacing bearings whilst retaining the core structure of the pulley. At first glance, it appears cost-effective. However, there are plenty of limitations:
Structural Fatigue Remains: Even if the surface is restored, internal cracks and weaknesses in the pulley may go unnoticed, causing failures to continue.
Shorter Service Life: Refurbished pulleys rarely match the lifespan of a new unit, meaning the cycles of downtime and maintenance are shorter.
Recurring Transport and Handling Costs: Every time a pulley is taken in for refurbishment, costs accumulate in workshop work, as well as craneage, labour and transport.
Refurbishment might look like savings up front, but it can quickly turn into ongoing interruptions and repeat expenses.
On the other hand, replacing a conveyor pulley comes with several clear advantages:
New units are free from hidden defects and built to current engineering standards (our models are corrosion resistant and include reinforced lagging material). They run longer between maintenance interventions and have a reduced risk of repeat failures. Promet have streamlined the fabrication processes to provide replacement pulleys at a lower cost than many refurbishment programs.
To refurbish a lagged pulley, you need to: ship it offsite, have it inspected, complete repairs and return it to site. With replacement, Promet can supply a new pulley that is immediately fit for service, significantly reducing system downtime.
Replacement eliminates uncertainty. All components of the conveyor pulley - the shell, lagging, shaft and bearings - are brand new. That reduces the likelihood of unexpected failures that compromise productivity and safety.
Your replacement pulley can be built to the latest specifications and customised to suit your site. That ensures better performance under today's heavier loads and harsher operating conditions.
A refurbished pulley gives some savings, but a new one gives operators peace of mind in the long term. In mining and other bulk handling environments, conveyers operate around the clock - so a longer service life means reduced maintenance schedules and lower operational costs.
At Promet, our pulleys have been designed to withstand WA's toughest conditions. From abrasive iron ore to corrosive coastal sites, our units will return your conveyer to service quickly and set it up for years of reliable operation.
When comparing refurbishment and replacement, project managers are surprised to learn that a new pulley can actually be cheaper than refurbishment. Considering all factors, refurbishment often requires:
Labour-intensive disassembly and inspection
Re-machining, re-lagging or part replacement
Testing and re-certification
Handling and transport costs
In partnership with our trusted supplier, we have streamlined our design and manufacturing processes to guarantee fast delivery and supply new units for less than the price of full refurbishment. And don't forget, that comes without the risks of hidden wear or reduced lifespan.
Promet provides conveyor pulley replacements designed and manufactured for Western Australia’s demanding resource sector. We focus on:
Durability: Corrosion resistant shells, high-quality bearings and reinforced, purpose-selected lagging.
Cost Efficiency: Replacement options priced lower than refurbishment programs.
Local Reliability: Solutions backed by a Perth-based contractor that understands mining and bulk handling needs.
12-18 month warranty: If your unit fails, you're covered.
Refurbishment might seem like the best choice, but for industries like bulk-handling and mining, conveyor pulley replacements offer a stronger, safer and cheaper solution.
In choosing Promet's replacement services, you opt for a unit that keeps your conveyor running at full capacity, without the hidden costs and shorter lifespan. We help operations across WA reduce downtime, save money and gain the confidence that their systems are built to last.
For a free, no obligation quote returned in 5 days, submit your drawings here.