The mine hoisting industry continues to drive forward with ambitious projects and a growing demand for innovative, high-performance solutions. Hepburn, based in Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada, says it meets this demand by delivering robust, state-of-the-art hoisting systems backed by exceptional service and deep technical expertise.
The company told IM: “With complete mechanical and electrical supply capabilities under one roof, our multi-disciplinary team delivers a coordinated and refined product, and seamless project execution. The result is long-standing, collaborative client relationships, and repeat business.”
A recent project nearing completion highlights this commitment: Hepburn is supplying a major customer with a 6 m diameter, SANS-compliant double-drum production hoist powered by a 9,000 hp direct-drive synchronous motor, a 3.2 m auxiliary hoist, and four large sinking winches. This system includes advanced variable frequency drive technology and multi-channel, closed-loop braking for unmatched performance and reliability.
Another project saw completion of the on-site installation of a 4.3 m double-drum production hoist and a 3.7 m single-drum service hoist supplied by Hepburn. Delivered on an accelerated timeline, the commissioning met the customer’s aggressive schedule.
Globally, Hepburn adds that it is leading modernisation efforts “with exciting projects in Ireland, Mexico, and across Canada, upgrading drive electrics, controls, gearing, braking systems, and rotating assemblies.” It says its experienced field teams often serve as the initial point of contact, ultimately leading to its full team helping clients develop long-term strategic upgrade plans with minimal production disruption. “When legacy equipment lacks original documentation, we employ laser scanning to digitise hoists and integrate them into our CAD and FEA platforms.”
Hepburn’s four SIL2 sinking hoists in Mongolia have now safely and successfully completed their twin shaft sinking mission. Building on this success, Hepburn can supply fully compliant SIL3 control and braking systems based on a universal, modular design.
Hepburn continues to advance hoisting technology, with innovations spanning across braking systems, dynamic failure mode mitigation, Babbitt bearing manufacturing techniques, peak power limiting, advanced safety, self diagnostics, and control system simulation.
In addition to new builds, Hepburn is the OEM for legacy brands including DavyMarkham, Fullerton Hodgart and Barclay, Canadian Ingersoll Rand, Westinghouse, and Ottumwa – offering complete OEM parts, service, and upgrades for this equipment.
