A South African customer recently purchased a sludge cleaning robot from YG Machinery to restore a heavily silted private lake. After receiving the equipment and putting it into operation, he reported excellent performance—stable dredging depth, efficient sludge removal, and simple remote-control operation. This case reflects the growing demand for automated cleaning equipment in South Africa and the advantages of YG’s underwater dredging robot technology.
Sludge Cleaning Robot Parameters
| Parameter | YG500 | YG600 | YG700 | YG800 | YG900 | YG1200 |
| Robot Dimensions (mm) | 1500*500*650 | 1500*600*650 | 1600*700*650 | 1600*850*700 | 1650*960*750 | 1900*1200*750 |
| Dredging Width (mm) | 500 | 600 | 700 | 800 | 900 | Suitable for large culverts |
| Travel Speed (m/s) | 3–15 | 3–15 | 3–15 | 3–15 | 3–15 | 0–17 m/min |
| Pump Diameter (inch) | 3 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4or6 |
| Pump Flow (m³/h) | 100 | 100 | 160 | 160 | 200 | 250 |
| Pump Head (m) | 0–30 | 0–30 | 0–25 | 0–25 | 0–25 | 0–30 (Horizontal: 100–150m) |
| Hydraulic Station Dimensions (mm) | 2200*1200*1700 | 2200*1200*1700 | 2200*1200*1700 | 2200*1200*1700 | 2200*1200*1700 | 2120*1240*1200 |
| Main Motor Power (kW) | 18 | 18 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 45KW (50KW) or Diesel 76KW (123KW) |
| Hydraulic System Pressure (Mpa) | 0–16 | 0–16 | 0–16 | 0–16 | 0–16 | Not specified |
| Particle Size (mm) | 15 | 15 | 40 | 40 | 50 | 0–40 (customizable) |
| Winch Speed (r/min) | 0–10 | 0–10 | 0–10 | 0–10 | 0–10 | 0–10 |
| Pipe Length (m) | 30–50 Optional | 30–50 Optional | 30–50 Optional | 30–50 Optional | 30–50 Optional | 30m/pack, 20kg pressure resistant, optional |
| Control System | Wireless Remote | Wireless Remote | Wireless Remote | Wireless Remote | Wireless Remote | Wireless Remote |
| Lighting System | Underwater LED*2 | Underwater LED*2 | Underwater LED*2 | Underwater LED*2 | Underwater LED*2 | Underwater LED*2 |
Why South Africa Needs a Sludge Cleaning Robot?
In South Africa, many lakes, ponds, and small reservoirs face serious challenges:
- Long-term sediment accumulation reduces water storage capacity;
- Manual dredging is labor-intensive and slow;
- Hiring large dredging ships is costly and impractical for private or remote locations;
- Environmental regulations increasingly require low-disturbance cleaning methods.
The customer’s lake was used for irrigation and recreation, but sludge buildup had reached more than 1 meter. Traditional dredging equipment was too large for the site, and renting machinery cost too much.
Therefore, an efficient, compact, and controllable robotic dredge became the ideal choice.
YG’s Solution: Compact Crawler Dredging Robot
After understanding the customer’s lake size, mud depth, and access conditions, YG recommended its Crawler Dredging Robot, a highly flexible and efficient model designed for small and medium-sized sludge removal projects.
Key Features Provided to the South African Client
- High-power dredging pump for continuous sludge extraction;
- Remote-control operation for safe and unmanned dredging;
- Compact crawler structure suitable for soft and uneven underwater terrain;
- Easy transport & fast deployment;
- Low disturbance — ideal for lake ecosystems.
This model functions as a portable robotic dredge, allowing the customer to complete the entire dredging project without hiring external contractors.
On-Site Results After Delivery
After the client received the robot, YG provided installation videos, online training, and operational guidance.
Within the first week:
- Water depth increased by 40–60 cm;
- Sludge removal efficiency exceeded the customer’s expectations;
- The robot worked continuously for hours with stable discharge;
- No need for divers or heavy construction vessels.
The client commented that the sludge cleaning robot significantly reduced project cost and time, making it a long-term investment for lake maintenance.
Applications of Sludge Cleaning Robot in South Africa
The equipment is suitable for various South African scenarios:
- Agricultural reservoirs & irrigation ponds;
- Estate and private lakes;
- Municipal sludge removal;
- Mining wastewater ponds;
- Industrial sediment treatment.
Demand is expanding due to environmental regulations and the need for cost-efficient dredging.
Customer’s Most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How deep can the underwater dredging robot work?
Depending on the model, typical dredging depth is 2–8 meters. Customized options are available.
- Can the crawler dredging robot handle thick sludge?
Yes. YG robots use high-power pumps that handle sediment with high viscosity and density.
- Is it safe to operate for beginners?
The robot is fully remote-controlled. Customers receive training, videos, and lifetime technical support.
- How much area can the robotic dredge clean per day?
A single unit can clean 800–1500 m²/day, depending on sludge thickness.
- Is the machine easy to maintain?
Maintenance mainly includes pump inspection and hose checks. No divers or major disassembly required.
Why South African Customers Choose YG Machinery?
- Over 20 years of export experience
- Fast global delivery and remote technical support;
- Affordable price compared to international brands;
- Stable performance proven in more than 30 countries;
- Customized dredging pumps and hoses available;
- Reliable after-sales service.
YG’s sludge cleaning robot has helped clients across Africa complete dredging projects safely, efficiently, and economically.
Contact YG Machinery
Want to learn more about robotic dredging solutions for lakes, ponds, or industrial sludge?
Contact us today for a free project evaluation.【WhatsApp/WeChat/Phone】+86 13837115193.