BULK2026 in Melbourne will convene bulk handling operators, OEMs and engineers to tackle chronic issues such as conveyor belt mistracking, spillage at transfer points and dust control on high‑throughput shiploaders and stacker‑reclaimers. Technical sessions will focus on optimising long overland conveyors, improving chute design using DEM modelling, and upgrading ageing idler and pulley systems to cut unplanned downtime. For mine operators, the event signals growing emphasis on condition monitoring, smarter wear‑liner materials and retrofittable upgrades rather than full conveyor replacements.

Schlam is expanding its east coast footprint with a new Hunter Valley facility in Muswellbrook to service New South Wales coal and hard rock operations using its Hercules mining truck bodies. The site is positioned close to major open-cut mines in the Upper Hunter, reducing downtime for tray relines, structural repairs and wear package upgrades that previously required longer hauls to Queensland or WA workshops. For mine operators, local capacity for large-format fabrication and refurbishment supports higher truck availability and more responsive lifecycle management of ultra-class haul fleets.

Henkel is targeting unplanned shutdowns on slurry and process pipelines with a Loctite composite “pipe bandage” system designed for rapid, in-situ repair of worn or leaking steel lines. The wrap combines epoxy-based fillers with fibre reinforcement to restore wall thickness and hoop strength without hot work, allowing operators to avoid cutting out sections or mobilising welding crews in confined or hazardous areas. For maintenance engineers, the approach offers a way to extend pipe life and manage localised corrosion or abrasion within existing pressure and safety envelopes.