TUNRA Bulk Solids Workshop

Dr. Peter Robinson is a Research Associate renowned for his expertise in the optimisation of bulk material handling systems, with a specific focus on mechanical equipment, belt conveying, bucketwheel reclaimers, and mineral filtration. Prior to his appointment at the University of Newcastle, he held a consulting role at Hatch Associates, part of the EPCM team delivering the NCIG Coal Terminal in Newcastle. He has a core focus on applied research, consistently driving innovation in the field and ensuring the translation of research findings into practical solutions for industry challenges.

Dr. Robinson has dual degrees from The University of Newcastle, in Physics and Mechanical Engineering, graduating with honours. At the completion of this degree, he undertook a PhD entitled ”The Dynamics of Open and Closed Belt Conveyor Systems Incorporating Multiple Drives”, which utilised numerical modelling to assess the time-dependent behaviour of complex conveyor systems during starting and stopping, and the mechanical implications of key components (drive systems, pulleys, counterweight, belt and idlers). As conveyor systems continue to evolve, in response to ongoing demand for critical resources, this research area remains a key focus. Dr Robinson currently holds a consulting role with TUNRA Bulk Solids, with his key area being belt conveying, collaborating with industry partners to optimise systems, troubleshoot failures and ensure compliance with both industry and regulatory standards.

Yusuf Badat has a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering with extensive experience in chemical and process engineering. He worked at the BHP Research Centre as a mineralogist, and managed reporting for a geological consultancy company in the coal seam gas industry. In 2015 Yusuf joined the University of Newcastle where he worked as research officer in the Priority Research Centre for Frontier Energy Technologies. Yusuf was responsible for the management of the experimental rig and testing regime for the multi-million dollar Ventilation Air Methane Abatement Safety Project.

He then went onto work for the Centre for Bulk Solids and Particulate Technologies as a research assistant conducting a variety of tests in the bulk solids sector, including uniaxial, wall and interparticle adhesion, hyperspectral testing of iron ore and coal self-heating tests. Yusuf joined the TUNRA Bulk Solids team in March 2020 where he is mostly responsible for the belt and idler testing services, including interface with clients in the belt conveying sector, proposals and reporting. Since he joined TUNRA Bulk Solids, Yusuf has successfully contributed to about 100 projects, both in Australia and overseas. With extensive experience in the testing of conveyor components, Yusuf also has experience with diverse bulk materials including coal and bauxite.