In a significant milestone for international mining support, Hebei Zongxiang Heavy Industry Machinery Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (ZongXiang) has successfully exported a substantial batch of its high-performance split set stabilizers to Colombia, a key player in South America's burgeoning mining sector. This shipment, comprising over 15,000 units of 39mm and 46mm diameter stabilizers, marks ZongXiang's first major direct supply to the Andean nation and underscores the growing global demand for reliable underground support solutions amid rising safety standards.

Split set stabilizers, also known as friction rock bolts, are a cornerstone of modern mining engineering. These innovative devices consist of a slotted high-strength steel tube, tapered at one end for seamless insertion into drill holes and featuring a welded ring flange to secure bearing plates. Once driven into the rock face, the tube expands radially due to the friction between the slot and the borehole wall, providing immediate and dynamic ground control. Unlike traditional expansion shell bolts, split sets offer continuous support that adapts to rock movement, reducing the risk of roof falls and sidewall collapses in unstable environments. ZongXiang's models, crafted from premium low-carbon steel with thicknesses ranging from 2.0mm to 3.0mm and lengths up to 3 meters, boast tensile strengths exceeding 500 MPa, ensuring durability in harsh conditions.

The export deal, valued at approximately $450,000, was facilitated through a partnership with Colombia's state-owned mining giant, Minería Colombiana S.A., for deployment at the El Cerrejón open-pit coal mine's underground extensions in La Guajira region. Colombia, home to vast reserves of coal, gold, and emeralds, has intensified underground operations to meet export demands from Europe and Asia. However, the country's geologically complex terrains—marked by seismic activity and soft sedimentary layers—pose acute risks to miners. "This batch of ZongXiang stabilizers will enhance our roof support systems, potentially saving lives and cutting downtime by 20%," said Dr. Maria Vargas, Chief Engineer at Minería Colombiana. "Their ease of installation—no grouting or torqueing required—aligns perfectly with our rapid development timelines."

ZongXiang, founded in 2008 and headquartered in Xingtai City, Hebei Province, has evolved from a domestic supplier to a global exporter of mining consumables. With an annual production capacity of 500,000 tons, the company specializes in rock bolts, wire mesh, and U-steel arches, exporting to over 50 countries including Australia, South Africa, and Peru. This Colombian venture follows a rigorous certification process, where ZongXiang's products met ISO 9001 standards and complied with Colombian mining regulations under Decree 1072. "Our split set stabilizers are engineered for versatility, performing in both coal and hard-rock mines," explained ZongXiang General Manager Li Wei. "This export not only expands our footprint in Latin America but also reflects our commitment to sustainable mining practices, with eco-friendly galvanization options to minimize corrosion in humid climates."

The shipment departed from Tianjin Port on September 15, arriving in Cartagena via a 25-day sea route. Local installation trials have already demonstrated superior load-bearing capacities, withstanding up to 25 tons per bolt under simulated seismic stress. This success paves the way for follow-on orders, as Colombia aims to double its coal output by 2030 under its National Mining Plan. Industry analysts predict such collaborations will drive a 15% annual growth in Asia-Latin America mining equipment trade.

For ZongXiang, this deal is more than transactional—it's a bridge to innovation. The company is investing in R&D for smart stabilizers embedded with IoT sensors for real-time monitoring, potentially revolutionizing predictive maintenance. As global mining shifts toward safer, greener operations, exports like this affirm China's role as a technological leader. In Colombia, where mining employs over 100,000 workers, such advancements could transform an industry long plagued by accidents into a model of resilience.