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af r ic an u pdates on th e
g ro un d a n d un d e rg ro un d
DIGITISATION
The mine of the future is here
QUARRYING
Back to the basics of explosives
BEST PRACTICE
Improving fleet uptime and productivity
MINING INDABA Embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution IN THE HOT SEAT Solar believes in using fit-for-purpose products, with the concept based around using the most effective products for the application required.” Charles Hurly, Marketing Lead, Solar Mining Services P10
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contents
a f r ic a n u p date s o n th e g ro u n d a nd
u n d ergro un d
06
18
Regulars
Pumps & Valves
5 Editor’s comment
17 Pump leaders in the Copperbelt
9 Africa round-up
Industry Insight
35 Market news
19 Aiming for zero harm on surface mines
INDUSTRY LEADERS
29 Pushing the boundaries of reliability
6 The mine of the future is here Hot Seat 10 Back to the explosives basics Legislation 12 The future of underground coal gasification – take two
APE and Mather+Platt's pumps are manufactured under ISO and SABS quality management systems.
DECEMBER/JANUARY
2019
Mining Indaba 21 A rigid market entry
ON THE COVER
22 The journey towards a mindset shift 25 Passionate about local 27 Optimising the entire process
Project: Africa
31 Efficient new screen saves money
14 Ensuring safety through connectivity
32 Today’s shift, tomorrow’s strategy
25
32
@mining_news www.facebook.com/pages/ Mining-News
PL MULTISTAGE pumps
Endorsed by
It's that time of the new year again, where stakeholders from across the mining and related industries come together at the Investing in African Mining Indaba, which also celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2019.
In sid e M in in g D E CE M BE R /JA NUA RY | 2019
3
TOUGH CONDITIONS ARE OUR SPECIALTY If you are looking for a truly dedicated and reliable pump partner Grundfos is the one to turn to. Backed by decades of experience of developing state-of-the-art pump solutions, we understand the challenges you face in the mining industry and design every one of our products accordingly to make sure they are tough enough to tear through some of the harshest environments on the planet. Our robust pumps cover most processes in surface, open pit and underground mining. Materials are carefully chosen to reduce wear, tear and corrosion and offer you long product life and reliable continuous operation to eliminate downtime. Unique features include: • Bearings designed to keep aggressive liquids in and sand out • High efficiency motors that generate less heat • All vulnerable parts made from high grade stainless steel Contact your local Grundfos sales representative to find out how we can apply our extensive knowhow to your mining operation and tailor pump solutions that will benefit your business. za.grundfos.com za.grundfos.com info_za@grundfos.com info_za@grundfos.com
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editor's comment
Publisher Elizabeth Shorten Editor Mpinane Senkhane Contributor Jackwell Feris Head of design Beren Bauermeister Designer Ramon Chinian Chief sub-editor Tristan Snijders Sub-editor Morgan Carter Client services & production manager Antois-Leigh Botma Production coordinator Jacqueline Modise Financial manager Andrew Lobban Distribution manager Nomsa Masina Distribution coordinator Asha Pursotham Printers United Litho Johannesburg Tel: +27 (0)11 402 0571 ___________________________________
The future's looking smart It feels like just yesterday that we were preparing for Mining Indaba 2018 and now here we are again waiting with bated breath. But before we look to the future of the mining industry, it is always important to take a moment and reflect on the year that was.
A
nd what a year it was! Despite
Mineral Resources in February, which
the negative effect of gold and
could bring hopes of open dialogue and
platinum price ups and downs,
more certainty to the industry.
capex in the sector grew for
What really stands out for me is that
Advertising Sales
the first time since 2012 to R482 billion. While
there is no doubt that the mining industry
Jenny Miller
it was a R62 billion increase on the previous
continues to add significant value to the
Tel: +27 (0)11 467 6223
year, the figure is still below the June 2016
country, and if that’s not reason enough
Email: jennymiller@lantic.net
level of R560 billion, PwC said in the 10th
to feel optimistic about 2019, then I
edition of its SA Mine report.
don’t know what is. This issue is filled with
___________________________________ 46 Milky Way Avenue, Frankenwald, 2090 PO Box 92026, Norwood 2117 Tel: +27 (0)11 233 2600 Fax: +27 (0)11 234 7274/5 www.3smedia.co.za ___________________________________ Annual subscription:
South Africa: R330.00 (incl vat & postage) Foreign: POA Email: subs@3smedia.co.za ISSN 1999-8872 Inside Mining Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. ___________________________________
Commodity price increases did well
at digitisation and articles detailing how
producers, specifically iron ore, coal,
some of the top product and service
manganese and chrome. The steel-making
providers are approaching the smart
ingredient, in fact, saw an increase of
mining revolution. I am particularly
R40 billion from 2017 to 2018, increasing its
excited to witness the tech upgrade the
share of capitalisation from 13% to 20%.
mining industry is undergoing. Are you?
Capex for the sector recovered from the lowest levels in 10 years to reflect a 19% increase. However, the aggregated local precious metals, did not enjoy the same benefit from price increases. The report continued to indicate that cost-saving initiatives could not offset the impact of input cost inflation. The increased
protected and may not be reproduced either
costs and production challenges meant
in whole or in part without the prior written
a weakening in operating results and,
contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers.
Mpinane Senkhane
mining industry, which is more exposed to
All material in Inside Mining is copyright
permission of the publisher. The views of
product and service innovation, a look
enough in the period for bulk commodity
consequently, the local mining industry ended the period at a net loss position after another R46 billion in impairments. Even so, the JSE Mining Index outperformed the JSE All Share Index in the reporting period, for the first time since 2008. In US dollar terms, the index also compared relatively well with the HSBC Global Mining Index, so there is
To our avid readers, be sure to sign up and get the latest updates and inside scoops from the mining industry. Check out what we are talking about on our website and Facebook page, or follow us on Twitter and have your say.
more good news. We have been talking about the mining charter all year, and the publication of the revamped version saw a requisite increase in black ownership of mining companies from 26% to 30%. This year, we also saw the appointment of
@mining_news www.facebook.com/pages/ Mining-News
the dynamic and sometimes controversial Gwede Mantashe as new Minister of
editor
In sid e M in in g D E CE M BE R /JA NUA RY | 2019
5
INDUSTRY LEADERS
The mine of the future is here thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions has positioned itself as a leading partner of engineering, equipment, technology, plant and service solutions to mining, cement, chemical, fertiliser, and oil and gas industries across the African continent. For 2019, the company plans to maintain its upward trajectory. Inside Mining recently sat down
your digitisation initiatives?
What we try to do with our digital
with members of the South African
PN We are quite happy with how far
solutions is really combine our expert
thyssenkrupp management team to
we have come; we have two types of
know-how with the latest technology.
gain some insight into the company’s
digitisation initiatives. One is the focus
We find that we produce really
product and service solutions to drive
on improving plant performance,
amazing results when we do that. We
sustainable mining in Africa in 2019.
where we usually achieve an
see an increase in productivity and we
improvement of between 2% to 5%. It
believe it is a substantial business case
starts with the digital modelling of the
for the customer.
plant, then we do some optimisation of the plant, but it all ends up going through to an artificial neural network to evaluate online plant performance and optimise plant quality. So, it is quite a broad range of tools we use. Besides that, we offer developments
We are very proud to be launching
that are aimed at speeding up
this training academy. Our success
decision-making – e.g. we have a
is based on the exceptional skills
drone for mine planning that flies over
of our people – so, for us, it was a
Philipp Nellessen, CEO, thyssenkrupp
mining sites, then instantly creates a
given that we need to develop them
South and Southern Africa,
model of the mine, which is far quicker
and expand their horizons. Thus, we
unpacks the latest and upcoming
and more accurate than the historical
invested more than R20 million into
developments at thyssenkrupp.
way of measuring a mine.
our academy. We didn’t just build it
Strategy
In line with the rapid digital transformation the mining sector is undergoing, and as a marketleading technology company, thyssenkrupp has come to be known for offering a host of digital solutions. Can you discuss some of
6
With the upcoming launch of your Technical Training Academy in mind, please discuss the importance of training for thyssenkrupp and in the industry.
What are some of your latest developments and what can customers look forward to in the new year?
for the company’s sake, but for the market too. A third of the graduates of the programme will be taken into fulltime employment by thyssenkrupp,
Digitlisation is the main driver of our
whereas the remaining two thirds
latest innovations that straddle the
will be released into the market
mining, power and chemical sectors.
after completing the three-year
Ins i de Mi n i n g D E C E MB E R / JA N UA RY | 2 0 1 9
programme. It is a very detailed, very well-designed programme that has been accredited by a number of agencies. It is based on what the Germans call a ‘dual programme’, where companies and schools work together to build world-class artisans. This is our goal.
Sustainability is essential to the future of any mine or plant. How does thyssenkrupp contribute to customers’ sustainability programmes? We put a lot of effort into sustainability. One of our leading focuses is energy-
Materials Handling
efficiency technology, which looks at
Jacques Steyn, GM: Materials
making equipment more efficient and
Handling, thyssenkrupp, discusses
minimising environmental impacts.
the company’s mine planning and
For example, we have solutions like the
design expertise, which offers an
consolidated solar architecture where
entire pit-to-port solution.
we use solar beams to also heat up boilers and produce more steam than usual on our sugar plant operations. We then also have solutions that look
Share with us thyssenkrupp’s materials handing solutions. JS From extraction at pit side to export
at the reduction of emissions (carbon
at port side, we are positioned to offer
to chemical), where we use not just
best-in-class technology and system
carbon dioxide like you would in any
design solutions for efficient bulk
exhaust to extract chemicals, but also
handling solutions. Our comprehensive
a number of other chemicals that
range of bulk materials handling
come out of the exhaust to convert
equipment includes excavators,
them into a sellable product.
Tell us about your strategy for the African continent. We are adamant that we want to continue our growth trajectory by going further into the continent and getting closer to
crushers, feeders, conveyors, stackers, reclaimers, transfer cars, as well
thyyssenkrupp will provide a practical demonstration of the latest developments in the materials handling arena at the Investing in African Mining Indaba 2019
our customers – not just for proximity’s sake but also to partner with customers. We see it
as train and ship loading and unloading systems. We understand that an operation is only sustainable if it is profitable. We fully comprehend the importance for our
customers to achieve maximum efficiencies through optimum production, while
too often where an EPC is not seen as
keeping input and operational costs
a partner. We want to change this.
to an absolute minimum. Large capital
We also want to focus on key
investments made on equipment have
strategy partners and discuss R&D
to be weighed against operational
pipelines and needs to help us in
efficiency and productivity to
continuing to offer holistic solutions.
achieve profitability. So,
It is very important that we bring
we do not just supply
technologies from our global network into Africa, like biomass power plants, for example.
In sid e M in in g D E CE M BE R /JA NUA RY | 2019
7
INDUSTRY LEADERS in the process design and optimisation of various mines in sub-Sahara Africa. Using our process expertise and unique in-house testing facilities, we help clients make their projects feasible during the planning stages and later ensure the process warranties when we hand over the plant.
Please tell us about some of your latest technologies and what the market can look forward to. We have two new developments. First, our new eccentric roll crusher has been very successful so far and we have already received the first orders from equipment. We look at the operation
a long-term view and planning, and
clients in industrial mining applications.
holistically, from an in-depth analysis
cannot simply be a comparison of
This crusher offers a very low
of the customer’s requirements to
short-term capex spend. The huge
footprint, specifically for underground
the design and development of an
improvement in operating environment
applications, and also high throughput
optimised system with full automation,
safety, operational efficiency, and long-
for hard rock mining. We are very
which is no longer just an idea
term financial benefits of these new
excited to showcase this at the Mining
but reality.
technologies far outweighs the required
Indaba for the first time.
This is also where digital technologies are coming to the fore. By making
really: who will be the first to benefit?
Another development is on the grinding technology side. HPGR (high-
use of advanced control algorithms
pressure grinding roll) technology has
and drone technology, it is possible
been in use for more than 30 years
to get an extremely accurate view
in the industry, but the industry now
of your mining operation, conveyor
requires a much better application of
route or even details of the existing
equipment. So, we found a number
structures and equipment within your
of innovative process designs where
plant. It also enables the inspection of
we can implement HPGR to provide
equipment in dangerous or potentially
the client with savings in water (dry
dangerous areas without exposing
grinding) and also electricity, by
humans to any danger.
optimising power usage compared to
Tell us more about thyssenkrupp’s conveyor belt technology.
other options on the market.
Although conveyors have been around
Minerals Processing
forever, they are still the most reliable
Wilfred Barkhuizen, GM: Minerals
and efficient way to move bulk material
Processing and Power & Energy,
from point A to B. One of our more
thyssenkrupp, expands on mine
recent innovations is the Mega Pipe,
planning, addressing the company’s
thyssenkrupp is renowned for its 24/7 service capabilities, with service at the centre of the business. Please discuss the value add to customers of your Service Centre.
which we developed in collaboration
process knowledge and test facilities.
From an out-of-Africa perspective,
with one of our key suppliers and
based on the install base from minerals
transporting of material out of a mine
You have an especially unique offering for clients. Can you unpack that for our readers?
pit at a 35- to 45-degree incline. The
WB We offer clients complete solutions
Service Centre based in Chloorkop,
ability to get out of a pit at such sharp
and can therefore assist them with
Ekurhuleni, plays a pivotal role.
angles significantly reduces belt length
their mine planning and process
and also allows you to utilise routes not
design. During the feasibility stages,
engineering and refurbishment of OEM
used by other equipment.
we also perform analyses using our
parts and components in the fields of
testing facilities and process expertise
crushing, grinding, pyro-processing and
in Johannesburg.
handling of raw materials. With all of
business partners. The Mega Pipe allows for the
We often talk about the ‘Mine of the Future’ but, in fact, all the technology entailed in these ‘future’ mines is
8
capital investment. The question is
Our Minerals Processing Division
processing, our philosophy is to become lifetime partners with our customers. Here, our technologically advanced
The facility specialises in the complex
the services we offer, our customers
already available. It will, however,
specialises in comminution and offers
benefit from more than 100 years of
require a leap of faith from one of the
clients the largest range of crushing
experience gained in the mining,
mining companies to really embrace
and grinding technology. We tailor
mineral processing, bulk materials
the concept and implement the
these to individual plant processing
handling and cement industries. This is
available technologies. It also requires
requirements. We have been involved
something we are very proud of.
Ins i de Mi n i n g D E C E MB E R / JA N UA RY | 2 0 1 9
Mining news
from around the continent
SOUTH AFRICA The Investment Battlefield competition is looking for sub-Saharan mining companies worth up to $50 million
is structured on a production sharing model with regard to the exploitation of the Kingamyambo and Kilamusembo deposits, whose reserves could exceed 1 million tonnes of copper and 100 000 tonnes of cobalt. This innovative structure, inspired by the practice in the oil and gas industry, allows Gécamines, as soon as the production begins, add to the competition. Somewhere
to become the owner of
out there is the next big investment
a significant portion of the
opportunity that could transform the
copper and cobalt produced during the
Investing in African Mining Indaba is
mining industry in Africa and investors
entire life of the mine, regardless of the
to host its third Investment Battlefield
are very keen to discover it. So if you
financial results of the project.
South Africa
The battlefield is on
The company said in a statement
competition set to take place
think you have what it takes to be
during the 25th edition of the
Africa’s next major mining success
that this allows for a better alignment of
event on 4-6 February 2019.
story, apply online today.”
interests between partners, in particular
Event organisers are looking
To highlight further its
on sensitive issues such as the control over
for sub-Saharan Africa’s most
commitment to the industry,
costs related to financing and services
promising mining companies with
Mining Indaba awards the winner
provided by their partners’ affiliates.
a market capital of US$50 million
with a free exhibition stand and
(R723 million) or below. This year’s shortlist will be invited to give Dragons’ Den-style, five-minute
Gécamines welcomed the conclusion
speaking slot at Mining Indaba 2020, as
of this innovative project with a leading
well as multiple publicity and investor
player in the manufacture of lithium-ion
relations service opportunities.
batteries and their various components.
pitches in front of a live audience and
This confirms, where necessary, the
a panel of top judges, including senior
attractiveness of the DRC for international
representatives from JP Morgan Asset Management, VanEck International
Democratic Republic of the Congo
private groups, including end consumers of minerals through innovative
name but a few. Judges provide instant
Gécamines signs first mining production sharing agreement
feedback and featured projects are
Gécamines recently concluded a
industry of the country. The company
grouped together depending on their
partnership agreement with Hongkong
added that this move is fully in line with
commodity and life-cycle stage.
Excellen Mining Investment, a company
the strategy of redefining its current and
affiliated to the major shareholder of
future partnerships, in order to achieve a
Relations at Mining Indaba, says: “It is
the Chinese-listed company Shanghai
better sharing of revenues and benefits
important for junior mining entrepreneurs
Putailai New Energy Tech. The agreement
for Gécamines and the DRC.
Investors and Orion Resource Partners to
Kael O’Sullivan, director: Investor
partnerships, in contrast to the alarmist rhetoric of major players in the mining
to be given this opportunity to gain exposure and build relationships with investors and brokers. It not only allows juniors to receive first-hand feedback from the investors themselves, learn exactly what investors are looking for and how to increase their appeal, but also provides an opportunity for juniors to present themselves as leading emerging developers and miners.” He adds: “We want to encourage every entrepreneurial junior mining company to consider what they can
In sid e M in in g D E CE M BE R /JA NUA RY | 2019
9
hot seat
BACK TO THE EXPLOSIVES BASICS Solar Mining Services is a new dynamic entrant to the explosives and related services segment for the South African mining and quarrying sectors. Inside Mining speaks to Charles Hurly, marketing lead, Solar Mining Services, about the company’s approach to business. Can you provide a brief bio looking at the Solar Mining Services business from inception to date?
efficiencies and total cost of mining are
located in Middelburg.
among the key elements to creating a sustainable competitive businesses.
explosives manufacturer and
How has Solar Mining established a competitive edge in the local market?
related products services provider
Solar has a philosophy of providing
operational efficiencies in this area.
based in South Africa. The company
competitively priced explosives based
With effective management of all the
gets its pedigree from the Solar
on imported ammonium nitrate
elements in the business and efficient,
Group based in India. Given
costing models, which differ from the
productive, committed labour,
the Southern African demand
traditional ammonia-based pricing
mining can continue to contribute
for competitive explosives, Solar
formulas. Solar also believes in using fit-
and compete in the global mining
established a local entity in 2015 to
for-purpose products, with the concept
landscape. This is also fundamentally
service surface and underground
based around using the most effective
underpinned by an enabling,
mining operations with explosives and
products for the application required.
consistent and investor-friendly
CH Solar Mining Services is an
services. The company has invested in the South African economy in the establishment of a manufacturing
Solar Mining Services Is a new dynamic entrant to the explosives and explosive related services for the mining and quarry sectors in South Africa offering a tailor-made approach to assist its customers in understanding the price curve.
10
site and detonator assembly plant
As a fairly new entrant to the explosives services sector, tell us what your take on the industry is?
If best mining practices are combined with competitive explosives, companies can achieve
government policy towards mining.
being significant drivers. While the
I read recently that Solar Mining announced some new appointments; can you share what motivates this evident appetite for growth for the company?
market value for any commodity is
Solar has appointed senior sales
determined by forces outside the
people to position the company
mining company’s individual control,
for consistent and sustained growth
The cost of running a mining business in South Africa is escalating, with energy, maintenance and labour
Ins i de Mi n i n g D E C E MB E R / JA N UA RY | 2 0 1 9
hot seat
by adding experienced seasoned
example, in a recent successful trial,
for transparency of the rise and fall
personnel. This will be through
Solar managed to significantly
of input costs.
new businesses development
reduce the amount of shock tube
opportunities and organic growth
used in underground faces, having
from existing customers. Similar to
found that there is a tendency to use
the ‘fit for purpose’ sales pitch, the
excessive lengths of the instrument.
company believes in employing
The importance of drilling accuracy cannot be understated, as it has a huge bearing on the success of blasts. What does Solar Mining do here to establish accurate drills?
using ammonium-nitrate-index-
Most of your competitors import ammonium nitrate to supplement their supply and typically use NH3 pricing standards from Sasol Ammonia as their main nitrate formula component. How is Solar Mining different?
based pricing in the market and
In South Africa, ammonia is typically
volume of single-use plastics and
ensuring we offer fit-for-purpose
converted into ammonium nitrate.
also offers a cost advantage to
products that provide effective
Due to this, the companies that
the mine.
solutions to customers.
operate in this manner have
people in line with its requirements to position Solar as a supplier of choice.
Speaking of growth, what is the company’s strategy moving forward? The company has a strategy of
Accurate drilling needs to be adhered to for effective blasting, as does using the correct and adequate lengths of shock tube. This allows for less environmental impact due to cutting down on the
Generally, for us, this depends on
adapted a sales price formula
the level of involvement prescribed
that follows this business process
by the contract. In some instances,
(e.g. ammonia price, conversion
Solar only supplies product. The client
costs and transport). Solar does not
has the responsibility of ensuring that
Solar is in the process of developing
convert ammonia to ammonium
the planning, marking and drilling are
new blasting software that will be
nitrate but imports the finished
done according to the blast plan.
beneficial to customers’ experiences
ammonium nitrate. Ammonium
and blast results. This is still in the early
nitrate has its own international
this responsibility, however, by way
stages of development. We have also
pricing index. The business models
of a full blasting service, supervision,
been very successful in revisiting the
are different. Solar’s total business
reporting and corrective action are
basics of the explosives business. For
functions in this manner. It too allows
advised or recommended.
Can you give us some insight into your innovative blast solutions and services?
Where Solar is contracted to perform
www.solargroup.com
In sid e M in in g D E CE M BE R /JA NUA RY | 2019
11
Legislation
The future of underground coal gasification – take two
In 2015, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr published an article on underground coal gasification (UCG) and its place within the regulatory framework under the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2004 (as amended).
T
By Jackwell Feris* hree years later, it would
within the MPRDA Amendment Bill
appear that uncertainty of
that were intended to provide clarity
the regulatory place for UCG
to the position of UCG (i.e. whether
would continue with the
the underground gasification is a
wells drilled from the surface, which
announcement by the Minister of
mining technique or petroleum
enables the coal to be converted
Mineral Resources that the Mineral and
production process).
in situ into gas”. This proposed
Petroleum Resources Development
amendment intended to make it clear
Amendment Bill, 2014 (MPRDA
where coal is ignited underground
that the extraction of syngas utilising
Amendment Bill) will be withdrawn.
with a controlled flow of oxidant gas
UCG technology constitutes a mining
(such as air or enriched air) and water.
process, as opposed to a production
MPRDA Amendment Bill is generally
It converts the coal into synthetic gas,
process (oil and gas).
welcomed, as it implies that
which is directly used as fuel, co-fired
certain proposed amendments (i.e.
with other fuels such as natural gas or
legislative process and it is hoped
declaration of strategic minerals, the
coal, and can power gas turbines for
that regulatory certainty would
proposed new application system for
electricity generation.
be provided to the place of UCG
The eventual withdrawal of the
rights, etc.), which would have created
There has been stagnation in the
technology in extracting syngas
further uncertainty in the mining sector
Clarifications
in South Africa, will be abandoned.
To clarify whether UCG constitutes a
extractive industry perspective, UCG is
There are, however, certain provisions
mining operation (Chapter 4 of the
recognised as a mining technique as
MPRDA) or a production operation
a solid hydrocarbon (i.e. coal in situ) is
(Chapter 6 of the MPRDA), the
converted to synthetic gas.
UCG could be one of those sectors that could be a catalyst for South Africa to be a front runner in the clean coal technology revolution
12
In broad terms, UCG is a technology
MPRDA Amendment Bill introduced
from qualifying coal seams. From an
It is now hoped that regulatory
the word ‘gasification’ after the word
certainty (i.e. from an upstream
‘underground’ as part of the definition
perspective) will be done as part
of ‘mine’. It further introduced a
of the proposals by government
definition for gasification that reads
to split the MPRDA into two pieces
“a process applied to non-mined coal
of legislation that will separately
seams, using injection and production
regulate the upstream mining and
Ins i de Mi n i n g D E C E MB E R / JA N UA RY | 2 0 1 9
Legislation petroleum sectors in South Africa. As part of that process, it is also imperative that there be a clearly legislative regime that deals with conflicting rights applications for minerals and petroleum resources over the same area. Our first-hand experience suggests that there is a need to ensure that conflicts of rights are adequately dealt with in any future legislation – not to leave a vacuum, as is currently the case with conflicting mineral and petroleum rights. The MPRDA, as it stands, allows for an applicant to apply for a mineral right
considered as part of the proposed
appear to be prepared to take up the
(i.e. coal) and a production right (i.e.
gas allocation in the Draft IRP2018. The
opportunity. Botswana’s government
methane gas) over the same land.
uncertainty is created by the fact UCG
has a great drive to encourage
This has resulted in numerous disputes
is only referred to under the discussion
investment in the coal mining sector,
with holders of mineral rights and
relating to detailed studies of certain
with various incentives and benefits for
holders of petroleum rights. Then there
technologies to be considered post-
qualifying investors.
are the proposed water use licence
2030, and that the post-2030 path
regulations for UCG, which have not
not be confirmed in the new IRP,
mining) and downstream (i.e.
progressed for the past three years. We
once gazetted.
electricity generation) perspective,
understand a draft has been prepared
UCG appears to have so much
From both the upstream (i.e.
it is imperative that the South
by the Department of Water and
potential for South Africa from energy
African government support the
Sanitation with input from a leading
security and job creation perspectives
realisation of UCG as a technology
UCG expert in Canada – but, to date,
– and could be one of those sectors
that could be a catalyst for future
the industry is still awaiting the official
that could be a catalyst for South
economic growth. South Africa has
publication of the regulations.
Africa to be a front runner in the
an abundance of coal resources and
clean coal technology revolution.
the potential is there to ensure that
As a country built on coal, we have
clean coal technologies are utilised
In addition, from a downstream
the expertise and skill to invest in
to enable the sustainable future
perspective, there is recognition in
this revolution.
exploitation of coal in a manner that
Uncertainty
the Draft Integrated Resource Plan,
A number of academic institutions in
reduces its environmental impact
2018 (Draft IRP2018) that UCG must
South Africa have already taken on the
and builds industries for the Fourth
play a role in South Africa’s energy
task of investing the necessary skills for
Industrial Revolution.
generation capacity – but it’s not
the industry, but government support
clear whether the Draft IRP2018
remains lacking. If South Africa does
*Jackwell Feris is the director: Dispute
contemplates whether syngas that
not invest in clean coal technologies,
Resolution at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr.
can be commercially extracted using
countries such as Botswana, equally
UCG technology before 2030 will be
endowed with large coal resources,
In sid e M in in g D E CE M BE R /JA NUA RY | 2019
13
project: AFRICA
Ensuring safety through connectivity
Ivanhoe Mines faced significant communications issues at its flagship copper mining site in the DRC, which raised concerns relating to the safety and security of both people and assets. To address these and other challenges, the company turned to a global leader in mobile satellite solutions. of Kasekelesa and Musokantanda, which meant that ensuring the safety of the inhabitants, who were suddenly confronted with more traffic, became a priority. The fleet managers also
T
had no idea where their 30 off-road vehicles, trucks and ambulances were he flagship Kamoa-Kakula
telemetry, asset tracking and
at any given time, leading to concerns
project is situated 25 km west of
communication solution, based on
around security. To compound matters,
provincial capital Kolwezi, in the
reliable, consistent satellite connectivity.
terrestrial connectivity outside urban
Lualaba province of the DRC. It
areas was patchy and unable to properly
has been independently ranked as the
The challenge
world’s largest undeveloped, high-grade
The state of the DRC’s roads posed a
copper discovery. The Kamoa copper
significant risk to contractors, geologists
deposit was discovered in 2008, followed
and administrative staff as they travelled
The solution
by the high-grade Kakula deposit in 2015.
between sites during the exploration
With the need to understand where
During this exploratory phase, there has
process. Potholes as big as 3 m in
vehicles are and how quickly they
been significant movement of people
diameter, a lack of maintenance and
are moving, and to ensure safety
and supplies across the sites and the
the remote location of many of the roads
and security, Ivanhoe Mines turned to
regional base in Kolwezi.
were just some of the factors that meant
Inmarsat, the leader in providing global
journeys that would normally take a few
mobile satellite solutions.
The poor state of local roads and security issues in the area meant that it was critical for staff in Ivanhoe’s
hours, could take several days. Dust clouds obscuring drivers’ vision
support any type of fleet management application in the region.
Inmarsat utilised the Skywave IDP-780, powered by its highly reliable L-band
control centres to remain in contact
meant that there was a greater likelihood
connectivity service, to enable a mission-
with vehicle drivers and monitor
of accidents occurring, and damage
critical telemetry solution for tracking
the location and status of assets.
was often done to vehicles by gravel
assets. The solution allows the control
However, poor cellular coverage made
kicked up by passing vehicles. The
centre to visualise the vehicles and
communication and data collection
unpaved roads were also very susceptible
includes a number of geofences set up to
very challenging.
to flooding and thick mud during the
enforce policies introduced by Ivanhoe
rainy season, which could cause further
Mines to improve driver and public safety
supplies as they move across the
issues for drivers, who often needed
and security. Reports are automated at
site, Ivanhoe worked with Inmarsat
towing assistance. Site access required
night so that managers can cross-check
to deploy a comprehensive vehicle
using unmade roads through the villages
inventories to see that assets are where
To ensure the safety of staff and
they should be. Matthieu Bos, vice-president: Corporate
Benefits of the L-band powered IsatData Pro communication service:
Development at Ivanhoe Mines, explains
• Performance – Low latency, consistent data transmission • Global – Unparalleled worldwide coverage • Reliability – 99.9% network availability over the I-4 global satellite network • No roaming charges – Uses Inmarsat’s global network, so no roaming charges apply • Lower cost – Competitive hardware and airtime packages for low-cost set-up
the company: “We wanted to reduce
some of the measures introduced by the speed at which our drivers travel on the roads, to reduce the damage done to vehicles if they hit potholes or other obstructions, and to reduce the risk of accidents. Inmarsat’s solution enables us to track the speed of every vehicle every minute; if this speed exceeds 80 km/h, or 30 km/h in certain zones, the office
14
Ins i de Mi n i n g D E C E MB E R / JA N UA RY | 2 0 1 9
project: AFRICA and driver are alerted and the vehicle is prompted to slow down. We can also monitor location with pinpoint accuracy, so that we can contact the driver of a vehicle that hasn’t moved for some time to establish whether they’ve had an accident or a breakdown.” Inmarsat’s satellite connectivity has been critical to the success of Ivanhoe’s Kamoa-Kakula driver safety project. The fleet management solution required consistent connectivity across the entire field of operations, large areas of which are not covered by cellular networks. Inmarsat, therefore, provided a dual satellite-cellular tracking device and fleet
The benefits
aware of any issue with a driver or
management solution, which utilises GSM
Bos explains the benefits the company
vehicle and can respond immediately to
connectivity where available and then
has seen since the deployment of
provide assistance. Additionally, we have
switches seamlessly to Inmarsat’s satellite
Inmarsat’s solution: “Our top priority is
improved relations with people from our
connectivity when required.
making sure our staff and the public are
local communities by reducing disruption
safe. The Inmarsat solution enables us to
as our vehicles pass through their villages.
reliable communications network
track vehicles across the region and, as a
“Inmarsat’s solution has been instrumental
between the control centre and
result, we have seen a notable decrease
in moving people, equipment and
vehicles, delivering real-time updates
in incidents. The speed at which we
supplies to where we need them to be.
to Ivanhoe Mines on vehicle status and
can also resolve any issues our drivers
Overall, the solution is helping to improve
location, enabling the company to
have on the roads has also improved
our bottom line, and has been integral to
act to ensure the safety and security of
immensely. We now have complete
the successful development of this world-
their staff and assets if necessary.
confidence that we will be instantly
leading mine project.”
This provides a consistent and
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PUMP LEADERS IN THE COPPERBELT Multistage pumps have been integral to the success of mining operations in Zambia's Copperbelt region.
B
ased in Kitwe, PSV Zambia has
pump chambers and related piping,
been providing specialised
incorporating Mather+Platt systems.
support for mining and
Mather+Platt is a market leader in the
industrial users within Zambia’s
design and fabrication of multistage
Copperbelt region for more than two
pumps, which are renowned for their
decades, with an allied expansion into
high-pressure advantages. Application
the DRC some six years ago.
examples include the installation of
Forming part of leading multinational
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WPIL, PSV works with associated group
to transfer fluids from underground to
companies worldwide to provide
surface over distances of up to 1.8 km.
integrated customer solutions. Within
Pumps are purpose-built to each
South Africa, these include original
mine’s requirements, either in horizontal
equipment manufacturers APE Pumps
or vertical multistage configuration.
and Mather+Platt, who, together, have
Every pump is engineered and
more than 66 years of experience in the
manufactured to international quality
design and fabrication of fluid handling
standards and in accordance with
management processes.
the group’s SABS- and ISO-accredited
The underground mining sector
quality management systems. Design
has been PSV’s main business focus
and pattern making for foundry
to date. Key solutions include the
moulds take place at APE Pumps and
supply and servicing of multistage
Mather+Platt’s Johannesburg facility.
main dewatering pumps. Pump
The PJ 250 five-stage pump
Companies supported by PSV Zambia include: • Mopani Copper Mines • Konkola Copper Mines • Lumwana Copper Mines • Kansanshi Copper Mines • Luanshya Copper Mines • NFCA • Chambishi • Nkana Water and Sewerage Company • Mulonga Water and Sewerage Company • Kafubu Water and Sewerage Company • Agrivision Zambia Mpongwe • Mkushi
refurbishments are carried out at PSV’s
Water, oil and power
Kitwe workshop, which houses a full
The purpose of multistage pumps is
range of OEM parts. The capability to
to transfer fluids at high pressures and
service locally significantly cuts down
high volumes, and aside from mining,
to Zimbabwe. This has been in
on turnaround times and is especially
this process finds applications in many
operation since 2004, with pumps and
critical for dewatering operations in
other segments, such as water and
replacement parts supplied by APE
the Copperbelt. Here, heavy summer
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Pumps and Mather+Platt.
rainfall periods, compounded by
APE Pumps and Mather+Platt have
The power sector also makes
generally high water tables, constantly
worked extensively in the water sector.
extensive use of multistage pumps.
place mines at risk of flooding. PSV
A prime example is the completion
Solutions supplied to Eskom include
projects include the installation of
of a World Bank funded project for
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the Blantyre Water Board in Malawi,
multistage units were set up in a vertical
finalised in 2016. Key solutions included
arrangement and specially designed for
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the application. Provision was made for
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The scope also entailed extensive
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Inner workings of the PJ 250
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Back in Zambia, PSV continues to
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In sid e M in in g D E CE M BE R /JA NUA RY | 2019
17
ERWAT
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industry insight
Aiming for zero harm on surface mines Surface mining association Aspasa believes that more needs to be done by all stakeholders within the industry if industrywide ‘zero harm’ targets are to be met by 2020.
T
he Mine Health and Safety
management of these risks is pivotal
compliance issues and we are,
Council (MHSC) accepted the
to achieving zero harm in future. The
therefore, acting as a stop-gap to
undertaking of zero harm from
association is, therefore, working
assist with training, risk identification
stakeholders several years ago
with members to identify such risks
and compliance issues.
and has been steadily working with
and is actively involved in assisting its
government and industry
members to manage
Annual audits
to progress legislation
them. “We are happy
“We also conduct annual health
and best practice to a
to take the lead in this
and safety audits on all member
point where zero harm is
regard and to guide our
mines and quarries, during which
actually achievable.
sector of the industry
we identify problems and give
However, with the
towards these future
corrective actions for the operations
deadline looming, Nico
goals. Although there had
to become compliant. We work
Pienaar, director of the
been no fatalities within
closely with the Department of
Aggregate and Sand
our membership for the
Mineral Resources to do this,” he
Producers of Southern
past two years, we are
said. Pienaar identified the top
Africa (Aspasa), says
actively assisting to plug
10 initiatives that can be taken
some of the failures of the
today to improve safety on any
Mine Health and Safety
surface mine are:
that although safety
Nico Pienaar, Aspasa
standards have improved significantly over the years, the same
Act (No. 29 of 1996) as they pertain to
accidents that injured and killed miners
surface miners – particularly small mines
20 years ago are still doing so today.
and quarries.
Leading the way
quarries and surface mines in the act;
Speaking at the Mine
as a result, it leaves gaps in these
Occupational Health and Safety
operations that may prove costly in
Summit held in Benoni recently, he
future. It’s a fact that smaller mines
added that the identification and
don’t have the manpower to handle
• S top talking about safety – focus on risk.
• S top telling! Practice the art of
“There is no specific provision for
humble inquiry and have real conversations about safety.
•D on’t delegate health and safety to a department.
• I nclude all levels of management in all safety discussions.
• I nstil and maintain a good safety compliance culture.
•P rovide real training on safety. •D o a gap analysis between how safety is imagined and how it is actually done.
•N ever use safety as a weapon, threat, punishment or excuse.
•M anagers must be safety leaders, not safety managers. Pienaar also encouraged all surface mining companies to join Aspasa in its drive to achieve zero harm within the sector.
In sid e M in in g D E CE M BE R /JA NUA RY | 2019
19
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mining indaba
A rigid market re-entry Earthmoving equipment manufacturer Volvo Construction Equipment, alongside local partner Babcock Equipment, officially launched a new 95 t rigid hauler for the coal and bulk commodities industries this year.
T
he impressive R100E rigid hauler,
component and hydraulics sensors, and
Made by customers
boasting a 783 kW, 4 600 Nm,
telematics capabilities to ensure safety
“It builds on Terex Trucks’ 84-year
30 ℓ QST30 Cummins engine and
and enable remote monitoring of the
heritage and incorporates feedback
a 60 m3 bin, is Volvo’s much-
machines. Additionally, the machine
from 60 key industrial customers across
anticipated re-entry into the rigid
has ports to view the levels of grease on
many different geographic regions and
hauler market following its acquisition of
the axles and the oil, hydraulic fluids and
operating conditions, hence the slogan
materials handling company Terex some
fuel inlets. The engine components are
that the R100E is made by our customers.”
four years ago.
also readily accessible, which helps to
Douglas says.
Dave Vaughn, MD, Babcock Equipment, says the rigid hauler
make servicing easy.
“The R100E is ideal for heavy mining,
“The front suspension has been
heavy quarrying and opencast mining
provided an opportunity to open a new
widened to provide higher stability
applications. It is a rigid dump truck
market for the company. The company
and lower leaning during cornering.
mainly used on longer hauls, where the
showcased the hauler at its Middelburg,
The R100E rigid hauler is suited for well-
underfoot conditions are good. Even in
Mpumalanga, facility in October.
established opencast mining operations
cases where hauls are slightly shorter,
with moderate inclines and roads that
the underfoot conditions are not that
are in good condition.”
ideal, and the inclines are very steep, the
The R100E was tested in South Africa over the past 12 months and has been adapted to home soil to ensure that it is
Paul Douglas, vice president: Rigid
able to operate efficiently and effectively
Haulers at Volvo Construction Equipment
in local conditions.
and managing director at Terex Trucks,
articulated dump truck still holds its own,” adds Vaughn. Babcock’s Middelburg facility has bays
says Volvo’s Motherwell factory, in
that can accommodate the rigid haulers
Babcock showcased the haulers on-
Scotland, which manufactures the rigid
and its technical staff have received the
site to key clients in the coal sector,
haulers, has 70 years of experience and
training and skills development required
the company had already received
has seen given a significant boost in
to service and support the machines.
orders for three of these new machines
safety, quality and capacity through
Babcock has added that it will sell and
from South African clients and received
investment by the parent group.
support the haulers in South Africa,
By the time of the launch, where
expressions of interest for four more.
High-tech systems
“The R100E has been designed to meet customer demands for a rigid hauler that delivers high performance
Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Zambia and Botswana. Volvo also recently announced the
The hauler has an array of sensors and
and productivity, low total cost of
launch of Volvo Financial Services in South
systems, including a 360-degree camera
ownership, easy serviceability and
Africa, to assist clients with financing for its
system, an overspeed control system,
good operator comfort.
equipment, trucks and buses.
Table 1 R100E specifications Payload capacity (kg)
95 000
Body volume, SAE 2:1 heap (m3)
60.4
Net weight (kg)
69 550
Gross weight (kg)
164 550
Engine
Cummins QST30 CAC (Tier 2 / Stage II)
Maximum engine gross power (kW/hp)
783/1 050
…at engine speed (r/min)
2 100
Max SAE J1349 gross torque (Nm)
4 631
…at engine speed (r/min)
1 300
Max speed (km/h)
50
In sid e M in in g D E CE M BE R /JA NUA RY | 2019
21
MINing indaba
The journey towards
a mindset shift
With the rapid development of new technology and the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which is disrupting traditional processes and the way we live and work, data is becoming a hot commodity.
T
productivity, reduce maintenance and operation costs, and improve
he challenge lies not in
in this space for a number of years
safety. Through collaboration and
obtaining the data, but in how
and has established a strong digital
the sharing of digital knowledge
to use it to its maximum potential
reputation. In South Africa, the project
across WorleyParsons’ multinational
to add real value to customers
delivery company has positioned itself
regions, the company’s global digital
and organisations, particularly in
at the forefront of mining technology
teams are aligning to create the
a technologically stagnant sector
by developing various leading-edge
most innovative solutions to address
such as mining.
data management tools, such as the
these challenges.
For a company like WorleyParsons,
Stepwise process. This makes it possible
which provides engineering solutions
to expediently create option analyses
embedded in WorleyParsons’ day-to-
to the world’s energy and resources
to assist customers and prospective
day workings, and the company is in
challenges, harnessing the power of
funders in making strategic investment
the process of creating global service
data is vital for the organisation and its
decisions, while integrated design
lines to make the digital capability
customers to prosper in the new digital
project tools create a living digital twin
available throughout its locations.
age. With a long history of innovation,
of a facility that can reduce risk and
WorleyParsons has already been active
improve productivity on a project.
The objective is to deliver an intelligent and integrated project scope that runs from the design phase right through to construction
22
‘Going digital’ is very different to the traditional way of doing work, particularly in the mining sector
Addressing challenges
This digital capability is being
Intelligent mines “The world is changing at a rapid pace. Organisations across the globe
Driven by teams of global technical
have a strategic objective to ‘go
experts who have the unique
digital’ or be at risk of becoming
advantage of also having years of
obsolete, but few know how to use
EPCM experience, WorleyParsons’ data
technology to add real value to their
management solutions are aimed at
operations,” says Denver Dreyer, CEO
addressing the ongoing challenges
of WorleyParsons RSA. “WorleyParsons
that energy and resources customers
has the knowledge and expertise to
continue to face: how to increase
offer a roadmap to help our customers
Ins i de Mi n i n g D E C E MB E R / JA N UA RY | 2 0 1 9
MINing indaba
navigate what is unfamiliar territory for many. ‘Going digital’ is very different to the traditional way of doing work, particularly in the mining sector, which
WorleyParsons’ data management solutions team are aimed at addressing the ongoing challenges that energy and resources customers continue to face
has seen very little change in mining
FAST FACT As part of the ‘Mining 2050 Innovation Track’ programme at Mining Indaba 2019, Gordon Cowe, MD, Major Projects:
methods in decades. It requires a
experts over a long period of time.
change in mindset of the entire project
What really makes virtual reality
team, including on the customers’
models powerful is the integrated
side, right down to mine personnel.
data that makes it possible to provide
intelligent mine concept and the positive
Our customers’ teams must be aligned
design accuracy, look pre-emptively
influence of digital data management
with ours to embrace technology and
forward, and create a scenario plan
on the mining industry. WorleyParsons’
understand the immense benefits of it.”
for a project. The objective is to deliver
corporate presentation is scheduled for
an intelligent and integrated project
6 February 2019 at 17:00.
Dreyer notes that it is vital to
Middle East at WorleyParsons, will be going into further detail about the
partner with a service provider that
scope that runs from the design phase
has industry experience as well as
right through to construction. This can
technical expertise. Russell Du Plessis,
only be achieved by utilising data-
manager: BIM for WorleyParsons RSA,
centric integrated design principles
“We have people who understand
concurs. “In the mining sector, we’re
combined with industry knowledge,”
data management and the application
seeing companies approach third-
explains Du Plessis.
of data in an operational context, and
party providers to create 3D models
Dreyer comments that although it will
can develop digital design techniques
of projects. While this may appear
take time for the local mining sector
from concept development to detailed
impressive on the surface, the picture
to fully realise the benefits of digital
design, implement data analytics in
on the screen is not the drawcard – it’s
transformation, the company intends
plant maintenance and operations
the underlying data that is of value,
to mainstream digitisation across its
to improve maintenance and plant
which is accumulated by industry
larger projects. WorleyParsons RSA is
availability, and apply digital processes
currently collaborating with one of its
and smart tools through the design,
international counterparts to develop
development and implementation
a ground-breaking ‘intelligent’ mine
phases. With this capability, we
for a major mining client, which is
can develop the intelligent mine
set to be one of the world’s most
concept into a full life-cycle service
technologically advanced mines.
offering,” says Dreyer.
WorleyParsons RSA is currently collaborating with one of its international counterparts to develop a groundbreaking ‘intelligent’ mine for a major mining client
www.worleyparsons.com
In sid e M in in g D E CE M BE R /JA NUA RY | 2019
23
INSURANCE THAT SPECIALISES IN THE MINING COVER YOU NEED
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MINING INDABA
Passionate
about local SBS Tanks® is a proudly South African company born in KwaZulu-Natal. From humble beginnings to manufacturing its own 3.3 Mℓ reservoirs, this company is passionate about local business and serving local communities.
E
mploying over 120 staff around South Africa, SBS’s job retention
Effective partnerships are at the centre of the SBS Tanks story
stats in its 20 years of existence are remarkable. The company’s
Zincalume steel panel tanks, PVC inner
custom-built liquid storage solutions
liners, as well as all the accessories and
to a multitude of sectors across South
fittings are manufactured at a world-class
Africa and beyond, one essential
facility in its home province.
element has served as the catalyst for
Being ISO 9001 and OHSAS 18001 certified, and offering a 10-year warranty and tank lifespan of at least 60 years, SBS Tanks is the premium choice in Africa for water storage needs. As an industry so vitally linked to South
all its operations and installations: close, effective partnerships with its clientele.
Durable, effective solutions for the mining industry Working closely with its clients to
Africa’s economy and fiscal outlook,
design, develop and install highly
mining is a core component of the
durable, long-lasting Zincalume tanks
country’s present and future economic
for liquid storage purposes, SBS has
potential. But, with myriad obstacles
embraced the learning opportunities
thrown the sector’s way, there’s one
inherent within partnerships and has
element of cooperation that can help
been able to further assist the mining
to alleviate the effects of the current
sector, by providing advisory and
situation and enable the sector to
planning services.
continue planning towards a brighter future: effective partnerships.
Partnerships across industries
And, as the world focuses more on implementing environmentally conscious, sustainable solutions for water conservation and waste
Partnerships come naturally to the SBS
management, SBS Tanks is perfectly
team. Through the company’s two
situated to partner with the mining
decades of experience in providing
sector on like-minded initiatives.
In sid e M in in g D E CE M BE R /JA NUA RY | 2019
25
Mining Indaba
Optimising the
entire process Since the decision to operate under its own name in Africa in June, Epiroc has identified South Africa as a critical mining territory for the business, accounting for about 10% of overall turnover. In a recent visit to South Africa, Epiroc executives identified a number of opportunities worth exploring.
F
or Epiroc, a leading productivity
African manufacturer of rock reinforcement
partner for the mining, infrastructure
products for underground mining.
and natural resources industries,
Smarter mining is the future
South Africa is a mineral-rich
part of the world alive with opportunity
Epiroc has been an advocate of the mining
and potential. Inside Mining sat with
industry’s shift towards battery-powered
Per Lindberg, president and CEO; Helena Hedblom, senior executive vicepresident and business area president:
Per Lindberg, president and CEO, Epiroc
machinery for some time now. “We believe battery power will be the future for underground mining, with the
Mining and Rock Excavation Technique;
benefits being evident. It is environmentally
and Sanjay Ahuja, general manager:
friendly and contributes to huge energy
SA Region, all from Epiroc, and discussed
savings because of extremely high
these very opportunities.
ventilation costs. So we are aiming
“What we have realised in our time here
towards a fossil-free underground mining
is that customers are looking for companies
environment. That is our long-term vision.
that are increasingly advanced, and making use of unique automation solutions, and this is essentially what we are,” says Lindberg.
Separation milestone In November last year, Epiroc announced formal separation for Atlas Copco to focus on mining operations in Africa. “The separation journey we embarked
Ola Kinnader, media relations manager: Corporate Communication & Governmental Affairs, Epiroc
“We do admittedly have a lot of work
Helena Hedblom, executive VP and business area president: Mining & Rock Excavation Technique, Epiroc
to do including design changes on all our equipment, but we are busy with that and can safely say battery technology is our key area of focus” says Hedblom. Eprioc recently launched its second generation of battery products and these are “bigger and better machines than Generation 1”, according to Lindberg,
Sanjay Ahuja, regional general manager, Epiroc SA
adding that with bigger machines, the
on allowed us to pour more into serving
company expects to really start making
our clients’ needs and really identify what our demand
inroads with this technology.
drivers are. We now have a clear mandate, so there are no
“We fully embrace battery technology because clients who
intervening levels, and we know what is required of us by the
would otherwise have to spend millions of rands to sink vertical
market,” says Ahuja.
shafts for the purpose of ventilation can get to the ore much
“We have had a number of significant milestones thus far, namely: we are dedicated to rolling out our automation initiatives, which will play a major role on the global market on
quicker with much less capital expense this way. That is a game changer,” stresses Ahuja. Epiroc has adopted an Africa-centric strategy for the future,
a productivity standpoint as well as in Africa; then, of course,
with the belief that this region has the biggest potential. “We
there are also the acquisitions we have just embarked on.
already have a big footprint here with six offices in African
So we have a number of initiatives under way to ensure
countries and having a production base in South Africa will
we grow organically and we are also pursuing acquisitions
definitely help us to support our African customers. Innovative
that will strengthen our position,” adds Hedblom. Recently,
Mining Products has technology that is really complementary
Eprioc agreed to acquire Innovative Mining Products
to what we already have alongside it’s excellent competence
(Pty) Ltd, widely known as New Concept Mining – a South
base, and we look forward to the future,” concludes Lindberg.
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27
Your Success Is Our Priority KSB Pumps and Valves is the leader in the design, manufacture, and application of heavy-duty, centrifugal slurry pumps, Over time, we have grown in both size and expertise to ensure that KSB's products are always at the forefront of slurry technology. By delivering cutting-edge solutions to your industry every day, KSB strives to be the expert of choice in slurry transport. We value our customers and are proud that you choose us to provide your pumps and services.Slurry pumps and parts can be custom engineered with options that include various impeller types to fine tune pump performance for specially tailored slurry pumping needs. These options allow optimum wear life and sustained efficiency - the best in the industry. KSB Pumps and Valves (Pty) Ltd
+27-11-876-5600
www.ksbpump.co.za
> Our technology. Your success. Pumps• Valves• Service
GIW® Minerals
Kse6J
industry insight
Pushing the boundaries of reliability Earlier this year, KSB Pumps and Valves busted the ‘slurry pumps have short lifespans’ myth with the ongoing success of its Navachab Gold Mine installation in Namibia, where 10 of its LSA slurry pumps have operated for more than a year without incident.
T
his is in stark contrast to the
complemented by the outstanding
breakdown. He says that the project
previous pump sets at the mine,
work done by owners, QKR Namibia’s
team placed specific focus on the
which operated a mere four to six
technical teams. They designed and
evaluation of the full life-cycle cost of
weeks between breakdowns in
managed the installation of the entire
the operation and maintenance of
project, including monitoring systems,
the pumps during the design of the
the aggressive wear environment of the mine. Resultant stoppages
and worked closely with our
new pump station and the selection
and production losses led
technical team to ensure
of equipment.
to the mine’s management
optimal performance and
seeking alternative solutions
longevity of the pumps
18% less power under similar operation
from new suppliers.
and the entire installation,”
conditions than the previous installation,
says Gremels.
while the maintenance requirements
KSB Pumps and Valves’ Andreas Gremels says
Du Preez Calitz, project
This resulted in a pump that consumes
over the first 5 000 hours of operations
the company was able
engineer, QKR Namibia,
were limited to the repacking of the
to convince the mine of
confirms the success of the
glands and the checking of bearing
LSA's technical superiority,
project. “The pumps were
assembly oil levels.
and now has backed up
selected based on the
the recommendation with actual on-the-job proof. “Our
Du Preez Calitz, projects engineer, QKR Namibia
pumps have proven that
Rob Bond, slurry pumps manager,
long-term wear simulations
KSB Pumps and Valves, says the rural
done by KSB and full life-
nature of this and other mines in
cycle cost analysis during
Namibia makes it imperative that the
they can work reliably and efficiently
the tender evaluation process. We
pumps are manufactured from the
where others simply cannot,” he says.
have not looked back since then! In
highest-quality materials and to the
fact, an open inspection of the pumps
highest international standards. Correct
recently revealed a much lower wear
pump selection is important, making
Technical solution He continues that the hard metal
rate than initially expected,
it essential to work with
design and additional high-pressure
which has resulted in lower
the best technical teams
gland water system are less prone to
operating and maintenance
available, such as those of
component wear. The KSB LSA pumps
costs as foreseen over the
KSB Pumps and Valves.
make use of a unique high-pressure
total life cycle of the pumps.
gland water system and gland service
The pumps have certainly
pumps in tough Namibian
package that pressurises the stuffing box
met and exceeded our
conditions is important to
with non-slurry-laden water to prevent
expectations and the solid
us, as it gives us leverage to
particle ingress that can cause wear
technical input and support
introduce our slurry pumps
of components. Hard metal linings and
of the company has been
to other mines in the region.
specially designed impellers further
superb from the outset,”
contribute to the hard-wearing nature
he explains.
of the pumps. “This just goes to show that specifying
“The success of our slurry
AK Roux, projects and asset management manager, QKR Namibia
All-round solution
We are already one of the top suppliers of water pumps to mines in Namibia and the addition of our ultra-reliable slurry pumps
the right pump for a technical
Echoing the sentiment, AK
application is critical to the success of
Roux, projects and asset management
enables us to become a multifaceted
pumping operations. In the case of the
manager for QKR Namibia, adds that
solutions provider to the industry in
Navachab Gold Mine, the additional
the new pump station has now run
Namibia and elsewhere in Southern
performance gains and reliability were
more than 5 000 hours without a single
Africa,” he concludes.
In sid e M in in g D E CE M BE R /JA NUA RY | 2019
29
Mining indaba
Efficient new screen saves money A new, ultra-efficient, three-shaft screen capable of dealing with overburden for use in rehabilitation or stockpiling materials as a saleable by-product of mining has hit the South African market.
P
rocessing equipment supplier
improvement in the time it takes for
“The extreme screening acceleration
ELB’s new Powerscreen
screen media changes.
offers improved capabilities over class
Warrior 2100 is able to reduce processing cycles by dealing
rivals, especially in sticky scalping
Leading the pack
applications. With amplitudes and
with unprocessed overburden and
“Being able to effectively screen
accelerations in excess of 16 mm and
significantly shorten production
overburden reduces the requirement
6 g, respectively, the Warrior 2100 triple-
times in the separation of materials
to blast, eliminating the associated
shaft screen is more prolific at removing
either for rehabilitation or as saleable
environmental impact while also saving
and breaking up clay materials than any
commodities. Its efficient handling of
time and money. We can now utilise
of its class rivals,” Dickson says.
materials and economical power plant
overburden material and turn it into a
derive further savings for miners or
valuable product. “The Warrior 2100
with economy in mind, with reduced fuel
contractors on-site.
uses the manufacturers’ triple-shaft
consumption being offered through a
technology, which was first developed
lower engine running speed of 1 800 rpm
sales manager: Mining, ELB Equipment,
for the successful Warrior 2400 screen
and enhanced hydraulics. With media
the machine is specially designed
widely used in South Africa and across
solutions that include Bofor Grizzly, Finger
for work alongside mining operations
the world. This triple-shaft technology,
Modules, Punch Plate and new 3D
in different terrains and has flexible
unique to Powerscreen heavy-duty
Punch Plate, the Warrior 2100 screen is
screening options and generous
mobile screens, is designed so the
extremely efficient in scalping, screening
stockpile heights to accommodate
4.8 m x 1.5 m screen box is highly
and recycling applications. It also boasts
a wide range of loading types. It
effective and efficient while maintaining
impressive mobility with a two-speed
also offers quick set-up times and an
exceptional throughput productivity.
tracking system as standard.
According to Heath Dickson, national
ELB Equipment’s Warrior 2100
He adds that the machine is designed
ABOUT ELB ELB Equipment is a South African company that offers a broad range of earthmoving, construction, mining and quarrying equipment from a single supplier. The company has established itself as one of the most respected names in the industry and is a division of the JSE-listed ELB Equipment Holdings Group.
In sid e M in in g D E CE M BE R /JA NUA RY | 2019
31
Mining indaba
TODAY’S SHIFT, TOMORROW’S STRATEGY
Targeting best practices to improve fleet uptime and productivity, Kal Tire is launching TOMS – a proprietary Tyre Operations Management System with a backbone of predictive maintenance and efficiency that delivers a new standard in performance.
32
U
ntil now, tyre management
and future shifts are readily integrated
reporting and performance
into work plans and schedules.
tracking has been constructed around a monthly report for
“With TOMS, we look at making tyre management more of a proactive
the mine operator with a myriad of data
and predictive service, like much of
that looks largely at historical figures
the mobile equipment maintenance
and lagging indicators for performance:
activities on any mine,” says Dan
inventory, consumption, past repairs,
Allan, senior vice president, Kal Tire’s
and observed conditions. The data
Mining Tire Group. Representing years
allows for review but doesn’t provide
of experience in tyre management,
any underpinning to look forward and
TOMS launched in 2018 and is now in
change future performance.
use on 34 open-pit and underground
With TOMS, mine operators will have
mines across 12 countries. In addition to
the opportunity to analyse and make
accessible and transparent KPI reporting
decisions for their tyres and fleets using
and service agreement compliance,
real-time performance data. With current
TOMS focuses on planning, predicting
information, decisions for today’s shift
and prescribing maintenance rather
Ins i de Mi n i n g D E C E MB E R / JA N UA RY | 2 0 1 9
Mining indaba “Through our ‘big data’ development, we hope to identify some of these things that can add value to our customers or our manufacturer partners.” Dan Allan, SVP, Kal Tire’s Mining Tire Group than simply reporting on past activity.
benchmarks results for tyre performance,
Mark Goode, director: Business Insights,
downtime, haul fleet productivity
KalTire’s Mining Tire Group, says, “The
and more to identify opportunities to
gradual rolling out of TOMS across Kal Tire
improve fleet use.
mine site operations marks the start of a
“The sheer numbers of tyre-related
fundamental shift in communication with
activities Kal Tire is involved with
our mining customers, delivering a story
every day should enable insight and
that’s more relevant and tied to both fleet
learning,” says Allan. “Through our
availability and operational productivity.”
‘big data’ development, we hope to
Solving existing challenges The benefits to miners are significant and, even in the day-to-day operations,
identify some of these things that can add value to our customers and our manufacturer partners.” In addition to giving customers
it means enabling real-time insight that
transparent dashboard-based reporting of
lets technicians and miners alike make
service agreement KPIs, TOMS has safety
informed decisions for that day’s shift.
at its core. Kal Tire’s equipment-specific
For Kal Tire, a company servicing more
safe work procedures are incorporated
than 150 mine sites around the world,
directly into the program and the TOMS
the benefits of using TOMS, and turning
planning report captures the results of
internal data capabilities into customer
condition-based inspections to flag tyre-
insight, is also far-reaching. What TOMS
related damage that could increase
solves internally is the need to gather and
operational safety risks and downtime.
access tyre management data anywhere
“With respect to the immediate potential
and to describe equipment and processes
of finding value for our customers from the
in a common language. Only then can
data in the system, we presently capture
teams leverage that data to set and
around 12 000 individual wheel position
compare performance benchmarks, and
inspections from the 34 mine sites,” says
put their eyes on predictive maintenance
Goode. “And our intention is to double
and productivity. Now, with a standard
the amount of mine sites using TOMS in
language in place for everything from tyre
the year ahead.”
descriptions to inspection findings, easy-touse dashboard reporting and operational standards for inspections, rotations and more, teams around the world can share best practices and ensure tyre management and fleet operations are optimised for uptime and performance. Aggregated data from around the world
www.kaltire.com
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33
cover story
Defining Tyre Management Kal Tire’s Mining Tire Group specialises in a complete range of tyre management services in over 20 countries. Our skilled workforce performs according to our global safety and operating standards, and focuses on extracting the maximum value from tyres and related assets for mining customers. As an independent tyre dealer with 45 years’ experience, we ensure customers get the right product for the right application. Through continuous innovation, we are able to meet the evolving needs of mining customers and help them make the most of their tyre investments.
KalTireMining.com
Products & Services
driving the industry forward
Realising possibilities from mine to market.
SA trial of dry coal separator targeted for 2019 Mounting stress on South Africa’s water resources, combined with growing concerns about the environmental impact of mining operations, make Aury Africa’s 400 tph dry sorting technology ideal for environmentally conscious mining houses. Aury Africa aims to bring its first dry separator to South Africa for trial at a coal mine in 2019, business development manager George Sturgeon reveals. Aury Africa, a subsidiary of design and construction coal corporation DADI Engineering Development Group, is in discussions with sister company Meiteng Technology Group to bring over its Telligent Dry Separator (TDS). The TDS was developed by high-technology company Tianjin Meiteng Technology, another DADI subsidiary, in 2015. Aury Africa launched the technology locally at the South African Coal Processing Society’s biennial conference in Secunda in September 2017. At that time, three operating mines in China were using the equipment. The TDS makes use of intelligent dry separation technology. Sydney Parkhouse, MD at Aury Africa Managing, explains, “Basically, coal is conveyed on an enclosed, single-layered conveying system. The enclosed system, which incorporates dual X-ray technology, is simple to operate.” It can be retrofitted to an existing coal-processing plant in various configurations. The system features image-identification technology, with the separator accurately identifying and separating coal without using water or any other medium. There is also no slime generation, with the TDS subsequently producing a higher yield of coarse coal at a low operational cost, with increased return on investment compared to conventional process systems. The technology can process 300 mm to 50 mm and 100 mm to 25 mm raw coal, with an upper throughput of about 400 tph. The higher tonnage output makes the TDS more efficient compared to competitor dry sorter technology. Aury Africa is continuously striving to improve the technology’s separation capabilities in order to achieve coal sizing down to 12 mm. Sturgeon highlights that the technology is fully automated and modular, with a self-diagnostic system. “The longer the unit runs, the more accurate it becomes – the margin of reject material compared to coal is reduced, as the TDS learns and adapts continuously,” Parkhouse adds.
The Telligent Dry Separator ensures improved ROI compared to conventional systems
Resource Evaluation
Mine Planning
Mining & Mine Development
Materials Handling
Environment & Approvals
Mineral Processing
Tailings & Waste Management
Smelting & Refining
Transport to Market
Non-Process Infrastructure
WorleyParsons provides innovative solutions for each step of the mining value chain. We combine world-leading, conceptto-completion expertise with design and major project delivery capabilities for the minerals and metals sector, from bulk commodities to rare earths, with complete mine-to-market solutions from inception to rehabilitation. Our Global Centre of Excellence for Mining and Minerals in South Africa has niche expertise in hard rock and precious minerals and metals, and we have achieved particular recognition for the delivery of complex processing plants and deep shaft mines.
worleyparsons.com
wprsainfo@worleyparsons.com
Products & Services
driving the industry forward
Independence underpins SRK’s lead in reports ranking As the world’s leading author of mineral resource and reserve estimation reports, SRK Consulting will again join project champions and dealmakers at the 2019 Investing in African Mining Indaba in Cape Town to promote sustainable growth in mining. With a global network of over 40 offices staffed by experienced engineers and scientists, SRK heads the RSC Mineral Intelligence ranking of the 25 top practices generating these reports; the documents are arguably the bedrock of geological and related data on which the international mining industry is founded. According to the ranking, SRK has produced over 150 resource estimation reports since 2014, and over 50 reserve estimation reports. Formed in South Africa in 1974, the company today provides high-quality technical studies and services for clients active in Africa and worldwide, including
major players based in Canada, the UK, the US and Australia. “Our leading position has been built as much on our independence and integrity as on our highly regarded expertise and professionalism,” says Andrew van Zyl, partner and principal consultant at SRK Consulting. “We have no equity investments, take no equity as payment and are not involved in the construction of plant or sale of equipment – all as part of our focus on being as independent as possible.” He went on to highlight the ongoing importance of addressing technical risk in every aspect of the mining project life cycle. “While political and regulatory risk is always a concern in the mining sector, I would argue that the technical risk remains generally more important in the life of most mining projects,” says Van Zyl. “It is no simple matter to find suitably experienced
people to study, plan and implement a mineral project in a remote region of Africa, for instance.” If the right technical skills and sources of good advice were in place, however, many of the broader internal and external risks could be effectively managed. According to Mining Journal’s recent World Risk Report, the average risk rating for the mining sector in Africa showed a slight improvement in 2018; on average, the continent is still considered less risky for mining investment than Asia.
Concrete for mining applications Mines have particular logistical, safety and environmental requirements that need to be considered when designing concrete and this is in addition to meeting demanding performance specifications. Among the global leaders in concrete admixtures, Chryso understands this and has an extensive product offering to meet varying operating conditions. In addition to experience in designing shaft lining concrete, the company has the expertise to formulate high-flow, highly accelerated concrete that can be transported through slick lines. This expertise also encompasses providing solutions for shotcreting, thin-skin liners, tailings grout support and backfill.
Chryso’s market-leading expertise has made it the first supplier to develop the use of tailings shotcrete and concrete to help alleviate mines’ logistical issues
Driven by the advances in admixture technology, the use of sprayed concrete as a temporary and permanent support element on mines has increased significantly in recent decades. Proprietary admixtures control the workability of concrete and create longer open times. They also lower cementto-water ratios, improve early or late strength development, and reduce rebound. Used extensively on copper, gold, platinum and diamond mines, the Chryso Jet range of accelerators ensures early hydration of concrete. It also allows the concrete to be formulated to suit the size of the shotcrete machine, as well as shotcrete thickness. To reduce rebound and improve early strength in dry shotcrete, Chryso HPB Powder
assists with bonding in wet conditions. Chryso’s market-leading expertise has made it the first supplier to develop the use of tailings shotcrete and concrete to help alleviate mines’ logistical issues. Now, the bulk of the material can be pumped over long distances and stored before being sprayed.
index to advertisers
36
10th Annual Women in Mining
15
Grundfos
4
Old Mutual
24
Babcock – Volvo CE
20
Kal Tire
34
SBS Tanks
OBC
ELB Equipment
30
KSB Pumps and Valves
28
Solar Mining Services
Epiroc
26
Mather+Platt
16
WorleyParsons
ERWAT
18
Mining Indaba
2
thyssenkrupp
Ins i de Mi n i n g D E C E MB E R / JA N UA RY | 2 0 1 9
10 & IBC 35 Gatefold
Tel: +27 (0) 11 883 1110 | www.solarminingservices.com
www.sbstanks.com
+27(0)86 048 2657