ENGINEERING EXPERTISE
Since 1935, Reid & Mitchell has gained market recognition within the industry of Electrical Rotating Equipment. Initially servicing the Gold mines in the Witwatersrand area, Reid & Mitchells' contribution within the mining, traction and OHV market rapidly grew, and now stands proud with over 19000m2 of factory engineering production, manufacture and maintenance real estate. These areas of specialised engineering capabilities are backed by years of OEM expertise as well as a dedicated, customer focused team of 160 personnel members.
THE REID & MITCHELL
PROCESS
In the mining, traction and OHV industry, R&M have been able to push the envelope and develop new products, services and methodologies that have advanced them beyond the competition. Through constant adaptability and resilience, R&M have been able to sustain innovation through repeatable processes and organizations that ensure advancements happen due to planning and not happenstance.
Define The Problem
We thoroughly examine the issue or challenge at hand. We gather all relevant information, specifications, and requirements to clearly define the problem statement. This allows us to understand the objectives and constraints, ensuring a focused and targeted approach to finding a solution.
Clarify the Problem
Once the problem is defined, we proceed with a comprehensive evaluation and testing process. We analyze the available data, conduct tests, and perform assessments to gain a deeper understanding of the problem. This step helps us identify any underlying complexities, potential risks, and specific parameters that need to be considered during the solution development phase.
Identify the Root Cause of the Problem
Understanding the root cause of the problem is crucial for effective problem-solving. Our team conducts thorough failure analysis to pinpoint the underlying factors contributing to the issue. Through detailed investigations, data analysis, and specialized techniques, we identify the root cause, enabling us to develop targeted solutions that address the fundamental source of the problem.
Develop an Action Plan
With a clear understanding of the problem and its root cause, we develop a comprehensive action plan. The action plan outlines the scope of work, methodologies, and resources required to address the problem effectively. We consider factors such as timelines, budget constraints, and specific client requirements, ensuring that the action plan is tailored to deliver optimal results.
Execute The Action Plan
We implement the action plan based on ISO standards, leveraging our extensive experience, and employing tailor-made processes. Our skilled team of engineers and technicians meticulously execute each step of the plan, adhering to quality standards and industry best practices. We employ advanced tools, techniques, and technologies to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and reliability throughout the execution phase.
Evaluate the Results
Once the action plan is executed, we evaluate the results to assess the effectiveness of the implemented solution. We conduct thorough inspections, performance tests, and measurements to gauge the outcomes against the predefined objectives. This evaluation phase helps us verify whether the problem has been resolved and the desired goals have been achieved.
Continuously Improve
Continuous improvement is a fundamental aspect of our engineering process. We analyze the results, gather feedback, and identify opportunities for further enhancement. By capturing lessons learned and implementing feedback loops, we continually refine our processes, technologies, and methodologies. This approach ensures that we deliver increasingly efficient, innovative, and reliable solutions to our clients.
VPI
PROCESS
Vacuum Pressure Impregnation (V.P.I) is a process by which a fully wound electric apparatus stator or rotor is completely submerged in a Resin. Through a combination of dry and wet vacuum and pressure cycles, the resin is assimilated throughout the insulation system. Once thermally processed, the impregnated windings become a monolithic and homogenous structure.
Pretreatment
The part is preheated in an oven.
Dry Vacuum Step
The part is placed in the pressure vessel, and the cover is closed. The vacuum is pulled to remove air or until a specified vacuum is achieved. This is the most critical step to ensure the part is fully encapsulated
Wet Vacuum Step
The transfer valve is opened, and the resin or varnish fills the impregnation chamber while under vacuum.
Pressure
The vacuum is released, and pressure is applied for the resin or varnish to penetrate the voids in the part entirely.
Release Pressure
Return unused resin or varnish to the holding tank.
Cure
The part is removed and placed in the customers oven for curing.
WINDING
CLEAN ROOM
Reid & Mitchell has enhanced its stator winding process by creating three clean rooms in its Benoni workshop. These rooms, designed and installed in-house, prevent contamination from chemicals, moisture and dust, significantly reducing insulation faults and improving integrity post-repair. Each 15 m² clean room, enclosed by transparent plastic sheeting, features a winding table that rotates the stator automatically, operated by winding technicians equipped with relevant PPE and laboratory suits.
The process involves temporarily removing a wall for stator entry, moving the room on trolley wheels for crane installation and maintaining cleanliness with controlled air flow and positive pressure. This setup allows R&M to meet demand for contaminant-free stator windings, covering all AC and some DC windings.
BEARING
GREASING ROOM
At Reid & Mitchell, we understand that proper bearing sealing is crucial to extending the lifespan and performance of industrial machinery. Our dedicated greasing room is designed to provide a contamination-free environment for precision bearing greasing, ensuring optimal protection and durability.
Each bearing is meticulously weighed and measured according to OEM specifications and ISO standards, guaranteeing that every component receives the precise amount of lubrication required. By adhering to these rigorous standards, we enhance the reliability of the bearings, reduce the risk of premature failure, and contribute to the overall efficiency of our customers' equipment.
This specialized service ensures that your bearings are sealed and greased in an environment that maintains the highest level of cleanliness and precision, giving you the confidence that your machinery will operate at its best for longer.
ASSET
MANAGEMENT
Reid & Mitchell provides a dedicated storage facility exclusively designed for the capital equipment owned by our valued customers. Our storage area offers a secure and damage-free environment at no cost to our customers. The equipment is housed within a state-of-the-art building equipped with advanced security systems, ensuring complete peace of mind.
We take responsibility for the efficient management and deployment of the stored capital equipment. Our expert team oversees the organization, tracking, and handling of the equipment, ensuring its availability whenever required. By effectively managing the stored equipment, we minimize downtime in operations, enabling our customers to maintain smooth and uninterrupted business activities. This service provides our customers with the assurance that their valuable assets are securely stored and readily accessible, contributing to enhanced operational efficiency and peace of mind.
