WA’s Hofmann Engineering has provided a reminder of the capabilities of Australian precision engineering industry by turning out a forged steel mill gear which is believed to be the world’s biggest, boasting an external diameter of 13.2m and weighing 73.5 tonnes.

It will transmit 17,000kW when driven by two 9-tonne pinions, also made by Hofmann.

The completed gear set is bound for the grinding mill of a copper mine in China.

It now employs more than 600 in WA, the east coast and offshore, manufacturing precision mining equipment components for domestic and export markets.

The company’s initiatives have included development of a price-competitive process to use forged steel for gearing, enabling the company to make stronger, longer-life products than those made by conventional cast-steel methods.

Complete Fleet Services are representatives for Hofmanns, so contact us for all your gearing needs.