Hard-to-Find & Obsolete Mining Parts: How to Source Them
by admin-ha
Many mining operations run equipment for decades. Eventually, the original manufacturer stops making some parts. When that happens, finding obsolete mining equipment parts becomes a challenge that can keep a perfectly good machine parked. Here is how to approach it.
Why Mining Parts Become Obsolete
Obsolescence happens when an OEM discontinues a model, changes a design, or a component supplier stops production. Low demand for parts on older machines also makes them less attractive to stock.
Step 1: Identify the Part Accurately
Gather the details
- Machine make, model and serial number
- Original part number, if known
- Clear photos of the part from several angles
- Key dimensions and the material it is made from
Check for superseded part numbers
Parts are often replaced by a new part number rather than discontinued outright. A supplier can check for superseded numbers.
Step 2: Search Wider Sourcing Channels
A part that is unavailable locally may still be held by distributors overseas. Suppliers with a global network, like Mining Parts Australia, can search these channels for you.
Step 3: Consider Aftermarket Equivalents
Aftermarket manufacturers often continue making parts for popular older machines. Read our guide to genuine vs aftermarket mining parts to weigh up the options.
Step 4: Remanufacture or Make a Custom Part
When no replacement exists, a custom part can be made to match the original. For plastic and urethane components, injection moulding or urethane casting can reproduce the part, sometimes in a tougher material than the original.
When custom manufacturing makes sense
- The part is no longer available anywhere
- You need it repeatedly across a fleet
- The original part wears out too quickly
Our prototype to production process explains how this works.
Plan Ahead for Ageing Fleets
Review older machines and identify which parts are at risk of becoming unavailable. Buying spares while they are still available can prevent long outages later. Our downtime reduction guide covers critical spares planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do if a mining part is discontinued?
Check for a superseded part number, search wider sourcing networks, look for aftermarket equivalents or have a custom replacement made.
Can you make a replacement for a discontinued plastic or urethane part?
Yes. Mining Parts Australia manufactures plastic and urethane components in-house and can produce replacements from a sample, drawing or specification.
What information do you need to find an obsolete part?
Machine make, model and serial number, the original part number if available, photos and key dimensions.
How can I avoid problems with obsolete parts in future?
Review ageing equipment regularly, identify at-risk parts and buy critical spares while they are still available.
Talk to Mining Parts Australia
Send us a part number, photo or description and our team will source it for you. Browse the product list, explore our services or contact us on (07) 5535 2228. For the bigger picture, read our complete guide to mining parts in Australia.
Posted in Sourcing & Supply