Anglo explores 3D printing to boost supply chain efficiencies, support local businesses
Diversified miner Anglo American has partnered with the South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and US-based technology company Ivaldi Group, to explore opportunities to digitally distribute spare parts for mining and processing equipment to be manufactured locally using three-dimensional (3D) printing. The project includes an analysis of Anglo’s inventory of spare parts – such as impellers for pumps, shaft sleeves, gasket bonnet valves and mining rock drill bits, exploring the impact of adopting a digitally-distributed supply chain.