WA-based seat cover manufacturer Black Duck has it covered when it comes to mining vehicles.
People on seats equals wear and tear in mining vehicles.
Machines and their operators are at the mercy of the extreme conditions of the industry, and vehicle seats are not immune to the damage.
Pit seats must handle rough entry and exit with tools and equipment. Haulage trucks face constant vibration, dust and the occasional spill, which can all damage seat materials. Port vehicles contend with long hours in the sun, salt exposure and heat.
All of this means that what drivers sit on matters, and seat covers can sometimes be an overlooked factor when it comes to cab safety, ergonomic support and the maintenance of vehicle seats and cabins.
A unique perspective on seats
Founded in 1984, WA-based Black Duck specialises in heavy duty, fit-for-purpose seat covers and primarily services the mining and civil, transport and agriculture industries.
Black Duck business development manager Victor Virgin said the family-owned company prides itself on making seat covers that provide heavy-duty protection while complying with all health and safety requirements.
“We continually refine our materials and designs to keep pace with new vehicle technology and operator needs,” he told Mining.
Black Duck’s four-decade history has seen it develop an in-depth understanding of the unique requirements of mining vehicles and their operators, including the demands of pit-to-port vehicle operations.
Virgin said that dust, mud, UV exposure and heavy daily use can all lead to the breakdown of a seat’s foam structure. Ergonomic support is eventually eroded, which can ultimately lead to poor driver posture, fatigue and reduced alertness.
He said Black Duck’s design, manufacturing and customisation process consider the rigours of the industry and aim to optimise for durability, safety and comfort.
“We understand long shifts demand consistent comfort,” he said.
“Our covers are designed to preserve the seat’s original ergonomic shape, so operators get the same support from start to finish.
“The tailored fit ensures there is no bunching or slipping, and all adjustments, heating, and safety systems work exactly as intended.”
The precision-fit covers are airbag-compatible and tested to ensure deployment is not affected, providing operators with safety and durability in one solution, while all controls, adjustments and safety features remain fully accessible.
Another key consideration for Black Duck is to create a product that extends the life, value and durability of the vehicle seats themselves. The constant grit and grime of mining can quickly work its way into factory seat material, diminishing its look and utility.
Black Duck utilises a range of materials across its product range to combat these issues, using military-grade canvas, which Virgin said is the material of choice for heavy-wear industries such as mining, because of its rugged yet flexible nature.
“Our heavy-duty canvas is built to withstand all these environments, providing durability and protection across every stage of the supply chain,” he said. “Combined with a precision-tailored fit for each individual seat, the design helps minimise movement and reduce wear, keeping the seat supportive and intact for longer.”
The heavy-duty canvas covers help to protect the original upholstery, which also benefits the bottom-line.
“This reduces maintenance costs, helps retain resale value, and ensures the fleet performs and presents well for longer,” Virgin said.
Versatile and responsive
Every stage of the mining journey brings unique challenges, from thick mud and debris in the pit to dust and spills on haul roads to harsh UV and heat at the port.
Black Duck’s canvas covers are built to handle it all.
With more than 3000 cut files in its system, the company’s pattern library covers everything from trucks and utes to forklifts, cranes, loaders and specialised mining equipment. Virgin said Black Duck is constantly expanding library and exploring sustainable material options to meet industry expectations.
“This versatility means fleets across the supply chain can standardise seat protection across a wide variety of vehicles,” he said.
Listening to customer feedback and being aware of industry trends plays a very important part in the company’s approach.
“By protecting both operators and fleet assets, we help mining operations meet today’s requirements while staying ready for what is next,” Virgin said.
Black Duck is in the driver’s seat to continue its growth by providing mining clients with seat covers designed and made for the robust and varied challenges of the industry.
This article appeared in the Spring edition of Mining Magazine.
