Austin Engineering says its Mainetec business unit in Mackay, Queensland, has completed the first dipper bucket fitted with advanced ground engaging tool (GET) technology through a new partnership with the United States-based Bierwith Forge.
The successful completion of the 4100XPB dipper represents the first implementation of Austin’s partnership with Bierwith Forge, under which Austin will distribute Bierwith Forge’s GET Slick Lip system across its mining bucket range in Australia. Under the partnership, the Slick Lip system can be customised for Austin’s entire bucket range, delivering operational advantages, including extended component life and enhanced payload capabilities.
The 4100XPB dipper is scheduled for delivery to a domestic customer this month, Austin says. Austin has also received two additional orders for a Komatsu (P&H) 4100XPB rope shovel dipper and a 5600 Hulk bucket, both of which will be fitted with the Slick Lip system technology.
Since its acquisition of Mainetec in 2022, Austin has expanded its bucket offering to bucket builds, rebuilds and related services. It has developed unique bucket designs that improve operational efficiency and can be fitted to standard OEM rope shovels, it says. Using its global locations across APAC and the Americas, Austin can export them to any location in the world.
Austin CEO and Managing Director, Sy van Dyk, said: “Austin continues to improve the design and operational efficiency of its products to meet customer requirements. We are pleased to see further growth of the Mainetec business following Austin’s acquisition of the business three years ago. The successful integration of Bierwith Forge’s technology into our product range demonstrates our ongoing commitment to innovation and customer-focused solutions.
“We are particularly pleased to provide this quality GET technology on our electric rope shovel and excavator bucket range for our customers. This partnership enhances our ability to deliver superior products that meet the evolving needs of our customers and the mining industry.
“Austin remains focused on expanding its product offerings and technological capabilities to maintain its position as a leading provider of mining equipment solutions both domestically and internationally.”
