With a relationship spanning more than a decade, these two leaders in the quarrying sector – Bonfiglioli and Rocktec – understand the value of working hand-in-hand.
Rocktec Technology is a leading original equipment manufacturer (OEM) located in Matamata, New Zealand. Focused on the quarrying sector, Rocktec delivers a wide range of solutions targeted predominantly at quarry and bulk material handling projects.
In a bid to widen its scope of service and its footprint, Rocktec was acquired by Skookum Technology in 2021.
Skookum was founded over 25 years ago and is one of Australasia’s leading suppliers of forestry and bulk handling equipment.
Reflecting on the rich history of the company, Rocktec material handling specialist Jason Tapper said it recently celebrated 30 years in business and is going from strength to strength.
“Our roots remain firmly planted in the quarrying sector and while we service customers globally, our primary focus remains the Australasian market,” he said.
One of Rocktec’s key differentiators is its ability to problem-solve.
“We pride ourselves in tackling complex issues through customised solutions, rather than selling ‘off the shelf’ products,” Tapper said.
“The majority of our customers can attest to our tailored solutions for the quarrying sector.”
The company has evolved over the years to service the bulk material handling sector. Its range of products includes apron feeders, crushers, feeders, screens and more.
Demanding sectors like quarrying and bulk handling require robust, quality solutions matched by service and communication.
“Communication is a big factor for us,” Tapper said.
“Suppliers should communicate when things are good and when things are bad.
“Having open lines of communication is critical to the success of each project and we rely on our suppliers to deliver.”
And meeting these requirements is the gearmotor manufacturer Bonfiglioli.
“They’re easy to work with, supply us with the information required and are backed by sound technical engineering,” Tapper said.
“Of course, we need a robust quality solution so we aren’t looking for the cheapest solution, but rather a quality solution that can stand up to the environment and last in the long run.”
According to Bonfiglioli New Zealand sales manager Paul Savage, the relationship began around 13 years ago and some projects between the two companies require as many as 20–30 gearboxes.
“We work closely with Rocktec on each and every project to clearly understand the scope, deliverables and deadlines,” Savage said.
“We understand that their solutions are generally tailored and that there is no room for error.”
Tapper agrees and said he also understands the value in having such a close working relationship.
“In larger projects, we work with Bonfiglioli to reduce the number of variable components and to provide standardised product across the plant,” he said.
The team from Bonfiglioli aligns closely to Rocktec on every project.
“We don’t supply from a catalogue – each solution is fit for purpose,” Savage said.
Savage outlined several key projects on which the two brands collaborated.
IRON ORE APRON FEEDERS
“Six mobile hoppers were designed, built and sent from New Zealand to Western Australia,” Savage explained.
“Rocktec chartered a ship to transport six hoppers – weighing in at 64 tonnes each.”
FERTILISER PROJECT
To increase stockpile capacity, Rocktec took part in a conveyor project on a plant that could only manufacture in dry weather.
“The solution was used to maximise the stockpile volume that could be kept in sheds,” Tapper said. “We developed a large conveyor over two land levels. In addition, we designed a lightweight auger system to distribute product across the shed.”
The Bonfiglioli gearboxes used can withstand the high-dust environments and harsh weather conditions.
“We generally make use of Bonfiglioli’s A series, HD series, if over 75kW, or planetary gears, for apron feeders,” Tapper said.
NZ QUARRY SHOW
Both companies exhibited at this year’s NZ Quarry Show in July.
“This was another opportunity for our brands to showcase their relevant technologies and the ‘power of two’,” Savage said. “Our partnership with Rocktec is something that we are very proud of.” •
Visit bonfiglioli.com/australia/en or rocktec.co.nz/ for more information.
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