TECO’s commitment to innovation is helping mining companies marry sustainability with efficiency and optimisation.
Mining companies across Australia and New Zealand have been relying on TECO electric motors and variable speed drives for more than 50 years to meet the unique demands of their operations. Backed by a global presence, TECO engineers combine innovation and sustainability to deliver solutions tailored to the rigorous challenges of mining.
“Our high-performance products are designed for reliability, energy efficiency and seamless operation, even in the harshest environments,” TECO managing director Stuart Walker told Mining.
“By blending global expertise with strong local support, TECO empowers organisations to enhance operational continuity, reduce costs and drive sustainable practices, ensuring confidence in every step of their journey.”
The company offers low-, medium- and high-voltage electric motors ranging in capacity from fractional kilowatts (kW) all the way up to 22,000kW. This includes the TECO MAXe3 Mining Series, TECO AFJE/AFJN motors, and advanced TECO MAX-Ex IE3 hazardous area motors.
TECO also provides state-of-the-art medium-voltage drives, such as the MV510 series, designed to optimise motor control, reduce energy consumption and enhance productivity.
Coupled with IoT-enabled diagnostic tools like the Pro-3200, TECO aims to ensure operational excellence and predictive maintenance in every project.
Walker highlighted his belief that TECO’s edge lies in combining innovative technology with deep industry and application knowledge.
Motors like the TECO MAXe3 series feature IP66 protection, Class H insulation and built-in diagnostics, offering reliability and energy efficiency.
TECO motors can integrate seamlessly with conveyor belts, hoisting systems, crushers, mills and ventilation, enhancing performance while reducing downtime.
In addition, the company’s modular medium-voltage MV510 drives minimise harmonic distortion and support multi-motor configurations, which Walker said can drive cost reductions.
“This ensures safer, greener and more productive mining operations,” he said. “TECO’s customised solutions, from material handling to explosion-proof motors, meet the unique demands of all aspects of mining.”
Walker broke down exactly how TECO products can assist in various areas of the mining chain where challenges may arise.
Crushing and grinding
“TECO Motors and MV510 variable speed drives have a strong track record in crushing and grinding applications, delivering precise speed control and optimising energy efficiency,” Walker said. “With advanced motor control and robust protection features, they enhance process stability, reduce mechanical stress, and extend equipment life.”
Milling
“Partnering both TECO motors and TECO MV510 drives demonstrates exceptional performance in mill operations, particularly with the drive frozen charge protection feature,” Walker said. “This advanced functionality enhances safety and operational reliability, making TECO a trusted choice for critical milling processes.”
Conveyor systems
TECO MAXe3 Mining and AFJE/AFJN motors provide reliable power for conveyor systems, helping to ensure smooth and efficient material transport.
“Designed for harsh mining environments, these motors feature IP66 protection, high starting torque, and rugged insulation, minimising wear and improving system longevity,” Walker said.
Pumping systems
TECO motors optimise energy use for dewatering, process water delivery, and slurry pumps. They handle abrasive materials and prevent cavitation, reducing downtime and boosting performance.
Ventilation
TECO’s energy-efficient F510 VVVF Drive can enhance airflow in surface and underground mines.
“They improve air quality, reduce energy costs, and support regulatory compliance,” Walker said.
Industry feedback
TECO customers have shown their appreciation for the reliability and efficiency of the company’s products. A leading mining operation in Western Australia credited TECO MAXe3 motors with cutting its energy costs while maintaining continuous operation under extreme conditions.
But products are just one of the ways TECO supports its customers. The company also offers comprehensive lifecycle support.
“Customers value our local service and support network, which ensures rapid response times and minimal downtime,” Walker said. “Feedback highlights our ability to tailor solutions, from bespoke motor modifications to advanced digital monitoring systems like the VB-100 to VB-800 vibration sensors.”
These services include custom motor modifications, on-site commissioning and preventive maintenance plans. TECO’s team offers 24–7 technical support so mining operations can continue uninterrupted.
“The TECO Pro-3200 diagnostic tool and VB-800 sensors enable predictive maintenance, empowering clients to detect and address issues before they escalate,” Walker said.
“With local stock availability around Australia and New Zealand, and rapid logistics, TECO minimises delays, supporting both day-to-day operations and long-term project success.”
Part of staying competitive in an evolving mining industry means developing new innovations that keep up with the latest trends and challenges facing the sector. TECO takes this responsibility seriously, which is why the company has launched its new Energy Solutions business unit.
The new arm of the company is designed to provide even more innovative and sustainable solutions. This has seen TECO delve into areas of development such as battery energy storage systems (BESS) for remote sites, hydrogen solutions to power heavy machinery, and transformers for improving energy distribution efficiency.
In addition, the company’s new innovations in partial discharge monitoring will enhance safety and equipment longevity, providing more efficient and reliable solutions for mining equipment.
“This initiative reflects TECO’s commitment to supporting the mining sector’s transition to greener, more energy-efficient operations while maintaining the high reliability and performance mining operations demand,” Walker said.
“These offerings are crafted to meet the mining industry’s rigorous demands for durability, energy optimisation and environmental sustainability.
“With TECO’s expertise, mining operations can adopt cutting-edge solutions that reduce carbon footprints, improve operational efficiency, and support compliance with environmental, social and governance [ESG] targets.”
As it grows this new area of business and continues to develop and innovate its current product range, Walker believes TECO’s mission over the next few years will be to strengthen its leadership in the mining industry by advancing energy-efficient technologies and digital transformation.
“Our objectives include expanding sustainable solutions, reducing carbon footprints, and supporting mining industries in achieving their ESG targets,” he said.
“With a focus on customised solutions and strategic partnerships, we aim to empower clients across Australia and New Zealand to maximise productivity and minimise environmental impact.”
Amid all of this development, Walker emphasised that TECO will continue to be a reliable partner in helping the mining industry transform into a new era.
“Our products are engineered to thrive in Australia and New Zealand’s harsh conditions, delivering consistent performance and energy efficiency,” he said.
“By combining global expertise with local service excellence, TECO empowers mining operators to achieve their operational and sustainability goals.
“We look forward to continuing our journey of innovation and collaboration in shaping the future of mining.”
