WEG has supplied a high-power slip ring motor to Glencore Technology for application in a gold mining operation, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner for demanding mining environments and critical process applications. 

The solution includes a 1500 kW, 11 kV, 4-pole wound rotor induction motor (WRIM), designed to drive an ISAMill used in the fine grinding stage of the gold processing circuit. The equipment was manufactured in Brazil and delivered to the customer in April 2024, following a sales process conducted through WEG operations in Australia. 

The WRIM plays a central role in ensuring reliable mill operation under heavy load and high inertia conditions. Thanks to its slip ring design, the motor delivers high starting torque with controlled current, allowing the ISAMill to start smoothly while minimizing electrical and mechanical stress on the drive system. Once at nominal speed, the motor provides stable and continuous power, supporting consistent grinding performance and high process availability. 

For WEG, this supply represents an important opportunity to further strengthen its long-standing relationship with the customer and to demonstrate its expertise in high-power motors for mining applications. For the customer, the solution ensures reliable operation of a critical asset within the gold processing circuit, contributing to higher throughput, reduced unplanned downtime and improved overall production efficiency. 

One of the key highlights of the solution is the new brush lifting gear design incorporated into WEG’s MAF mining motors. This feature simplifies both commissioning and maintenance activities. During commissioning, brushes can be safely lifted and held in a disengaged position, enabling accurate inspection and alignment. During routine maintenance, the mechanism allows for faster and safer brush replacement, reducing downtime and labor requirements while improving operational safety. 

Designed for harsh mining conditions, the motor features robust mechanical construction, efficient thermal management and components engineered to withstand continuous heavy-duty operation, vibration and shock loads. These characteristics ensure long service life and reliable performance in demanding gold mining environments. 

By enabling smooth mill starts, stable operation and reduced mechanical wear, the WEG slip ring motor supports higher plant availability and optimized grinding performance, delivering measurable return on investment throughout the equipment’s lifecycle.