August September 2020
Exxaro appoints new Business Unit Manager for Belfast Coal
Driving the success of the organisation and its commitment to powering better lives in Africa and beyond, Exxaro’s people are its life force. The mining leader invests significantly in the personal and professional growth of its employees, equipping workers across all levels with the necessary skills and knowledge for the future requirements of the industry. Building an empowered, diverse, and innovative workforce of tomorrow, Exxaro seeks out to find the ideal candidate for 9
every role. Most recently, this includes newly appointed Business Unit Manager, Londolani Rampfumedzi, who heads up the resource groups digital and connected mine: Belfast. With over a decade of industry experience and expertise, Londolani brings a unique edge to this key role in the company. Born and bred in Venda, Limpopo, Londolani started his mining journey at Exxaro’s Tshikondeni Mine in 2003. Qualifying as an engineer wasn’t enough for 1
community members through technologydriven projects. For example, our community WiFi project has enabled school children in the area to continue learning during the COVID-19 crisis. It would be great one day to know that some of the kids in our area discovered their craft in the IT and digital space by experimenting with the WiFi Belfast provided,” adds Londolani.
Londolani – he worked after hours to attain his Mine Manager’s ticket and MBA from the University of Stellenbosch Business School. From Tshikondeni, Londolani moved to the coal-mining giant’s flagship – Grootegeluk in Lephalale, Limpopo – where he gained two years’ worth of hands-on experience. In 2006, he returned to Tshikondeni and served as production manager, then left to pursue another position at Exxaro’s Matla Coal Mine in 2010. Londolani worked for six years at Glencore, managing two of its underground mines and strategic projects, then moved to iMpunzi and finally joined Mafube in 2017 as General Manager, before being appointed to his current role at Belfast in May 2020. An obvious move for Londolani, the new Business Unit Manager is proud to be part of a young, dynamic team and looks forward to ramping up operations to make the most of Exxaro’s first-of-its-kind digital and connected mine. With the Belfast Implementation Project and other forwardthinking initiatives in the pipeline, this mine 2
is an exciting one to manage. Using technology to add value and providing plenty of opportunities for growth, Belfast truly is a mine of the future. Incorporating the lessons, he learnt during his time at Mafube, Londolani plans to rally his new team and combine the Exxaro and Anglo styles of management to bring the best of both into Belfast’s operations. He wants to take his fellow colleagues along on the Belfast pioneering journey, inspiring them to achieve what the organisation has set out to do – delivering a high-quality RB1 product at the right time. “In everything we do at Belfast, we need to ask ourselves if we can do it better by employing technology. We aren’t just digitising for the fun of it – the technology has to make our lives better, allow us to mine smarter and bring value to our people,” explains Londolani. “We believe that we exist within a greater community and will continue to provide opportunities for the Emakhazeni
With community-based initiatives spanning education and skills development, enterprise development and infrastructure, Exxaro’s Belfast Coal Mine implements concrete plans to address socio-economic problems in the Emakhazeni Local Municipality. The mine’s Saturday School Project, Skills Development Programme (Machine Operator Training), Belfast Enterprise Development Centre and Water Reticulation Upgrading Project have all targeted specific community needs, including increased employment and income and better education. The new manager hopes to build an environment where all Belfast stakeholders can thrive – a mine where employees can
work together, combining their skills and experience to excel. Londolani plans to be a firm, yet fair leader – firm when it comes to results but fair in the way he treats his team. “As part of a large employer that employs so many South Africans, I am proud of the contribution Exxaro makes to the country and the impact we have on so many families. Moreover, we can go into the communities and do meaningful work there, transforming the lives of hundreds more. Making a real difference in our country is something I am passionate about, and I look forward to continuing this mission in my new role,” comments Londolani. “As miners, it is our responsibility to ensure that the areas we operate in don’t become ghost towns when we’re gone. We are working hard to ensure that our communities don’t only benefit from our operations while we’re there but become fully sufficient, sustainable societies in the long run.”
KENYA'S OFFICE WOOTA PUBLISHERS T/A MINING DEVELOPMENTS MAGAZINE Tel: +254 70 155 2963 P.O.Box 178-20114, Kabazi, Nakuru, Kenya. Website: www.miningdevelopmentmagazine.com SOUTH AFRICA'S OFFICE E.S.C.MAGAZINE T/A MINING DEVELOPMENTS MAGAZINE Tel: +27 62 624 1801 Fax: +27 86 601 9195 62, 2nd Avenue, Houghton P.O. Box 92744, Norwood, 2117 South Africa Website: www.miningdevelopmentmagazine.com Contributions The editors welcome news items, press releases, articles and photographs relating to the Mining Industry. These will be considered and, if accepted, published. No responsibility will be accepted should contributions be lost, damaged or incorrectly printed. © All rights reserved
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Goscor Earthmoving Equipment makes inroads into Lephalale with sale of SANY SY750 excavator
As COVID-19 bashes economies and demand for oil plummets, is this a moment to think green - or pump faster?
Goscor Earthmoving Equipment Lephalale Branch Manager Wayne van der Walt. Goscor Earthmoving Equipment has made significant inroads into the coal-mining region of Lephalale in Limpopo with the sale of a SANY SY750 excavator to start-up customer Phaphanyi Trading. As an essential service provider, the deal was also concluded under the difficult conditions of the hard lockdown, reveals Lephalale Branch Manager
Goscor Earthmoving Equipment sold and delivered a SANY SY750 excavator to Phaphanyi Trading during the lockdown 4
Wayne van der Walt. “We initially met with the customer to discuss all the potential options available, with the focus on the SANY SY750 excavator as being ideal for its mining requirements. The customer agreed, and hence the sale was done and dusted during the lockdown itself,” van der Walt explains. Due to the fact that this is a start-up company, the potential for additional business is significant, with Phaphanyi Trading looking to acquire a SANY front-end loader next. The SY750 itself is an especially rugged and durable excavator ideal for this arduous application. The SY750 actually has an operating weight of 76 t. It uses well-known components such
as an Isuzu engine for maximum fuel economy and Kawasaki components for optimum hydraulic flow. “It is a very important part of the SANY strategy to source only the best and most cost-effective parts for its equipment,” adds van der Walt. Goscor Earthmoving Equipment Lephalale is capable of offering turnkey solutions, from financing to service contracts. “We are a one-stop shop, which is a major advantage for our Limpopo customers,” highlights van
der Walt. Being based in the area allows fora faster turnaround time for any technical or service queries, which minimises breakdown time and increases both uptime and productivity. In addition, the Lephalale branch has a comprehensive stockholding of essential spares. “This proves the value of our proposition to our customers even in the toughest of times,” notes van der Walt. “The sale of such a large machine in a fairly remote location is a huge feat for us and a major advertisement for the SANY brand in the region. The fact that we were able to conclude this deal smoothly during the lockdown is also testament to how we ensured business continuity during this difficult period,” he concludes.
Start-up company Phaphanyi Trading is an essential service provider in the Lephalale coal-mining region in Limpopo. 5
Why Wind and Solar Would Offer the DRC and South Africa Better Energy Deals Than Inga 3
Seven years ago the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) proposed the Inga 3 – a 4.8GW hydropower project on the Congo River – with great fanfare. Third in a series of dams that would form the Grand Inga complex on the Congo river, the project was touted as a solution to southern Africa’s energy deficit woes and a way for the DRC to participate in regional economic development. Seven years later, development of Inga 3 has yet to begin. The project continues to be stymied by conflicts. For example, earlier this year, one of the partners, a Spanish company, pulled out of the consortium. But DRC president Félix Tshisekedi continues to 6
push to revive the plans. According to South Africa’s Integrated Resource Plan (IRP 2019), the country plans to import at least 2.5GW of electric power from Inga 3 (or more than half of the original 4.8GW design), a commitment reiterated recently by South African president Cyril Ramaphosa. The largest remaining fractions of Inga 3’s electricity generation would be purchased by the mining industry in the DRC. Less than 10% of the electricity from Inga 3 is expected to supply the DRC’s residential electricity needs. Currently 90% of the population in the DRC lacks electricity access. 7
Does Inga 3 make sense? We set out to answer this question in our research paper. We concluded that pursuing large hydropower dams in the DRC is financially risky for South Africa. We assessed the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of renewable energy alternatives to Inga 3 to serve the energy needs of both the host country, the DRC, and the main buyer, South Africa. Better alternatives The hydropower potential at the Grand Inga site on the Congo River, the largest remaining untapped hydropower potential in the world, has drawn the interest and attention of development banks and regional governments for the past several decades. But there’s been dramatic change in the energy sector in the past five years. In particular, the cost of alternative energy sources like wind and solar has changed the game for cost-competitive and sustainable energy generation that can be rapidly scaled up. There are more efficient ways to address severe energy deficits quickly and cost8
efficiently. For example, wind projects take only one to three years to build and most solar photovoltaic projects take a year. Both incur lower costs than similar-sized hydropower projects, which take five to 10 years to build. The latest construction time estimate for the Inga 3 is eight years. Longer build times lead to greater costs due to interest on capital. And analysis of data from past large hydropower dams shows that these projects cost twice the amount they quoted before the start of the project. We found that, even without considering the large environmental and social impacts, the dam is an unsound investment based on plain economics. Options for South Africa In our study we compared alternative energy sources for South Africa, the largest potential buyer of Inga 3 electricity. We found that a mix of wind, solar photovoltaics, and some natural gas would be more cost-effective than Inga 3 to meet future demand.
We reached this conclusion after examining the impact of several uncertain factors that could change overall costs. These included: Inga 3 performance, Inga 3 cost overruns, wind and solar performance, and the demand for electricity in the future. The only scenarios in which Inga 3 was more cost-effective were those that assumed significantly lower than average wind energy performance. In the case of the DRC, we found that wind and solar generated electricity would be cheaper than the World Bank-estimated price of electricity from Inga 3 for both retail customers in Kinshasa and mining customers in the Katanga province. These renewable energy technologies are more suitable for providing decentralised and off-grid access to electricity to DRC’s geographically dispersed population. The DRC has since proposed to more than double the initial capacity examined in our study. This would obviously change the economics described here, though President Tshisekedi has expressed preference for the original smaller 4.8GW proposal. Ayuk and Gwede Mantashe at Africa Oil & power 2019. Picture credit: Africa Oil & Power.
Of course, economics should be only one of many factors to weigh when choosing energy technologies. Like many other mega hydropower projects, the Inga 3 has been fraught with potential severe social and environmental impacts. At least 35,000 people would be displaced by Inga 3 alone. The potential ecosystem impacts include the decline of fisheries upstream of the dam, threats to freshwater diversity and mangroves in the Congo delta, and reduced carbon sequestration through reduced organic sediment transport downstream to the ocean. Choosing a better course Time and resources wasted over the last decade entertaining a high-risk mega project that may not even be realised could have been fruitfully spent pursuing opportunities like wind and solar technologies that are cost-effective today. The DRC government and international financial institutions like the Africa Development Bank backing the Inga 3 can still change course to choose more sustainable and lower risk avenues to provide cost-effective access to energy and spur economic development. 9
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10 Top Nickel-producing Countries
2. Philippines Mine production: 420,000 MT The Philippines has been one of the top nickel-producing countries and a nickel ore exporter for quite some time. Despite taking a small hit between 2017 and 2018, when nickel production fell from 366,000 MT to 340,000 MT, the top nation increased its output to 420,000 MT in 2019. Another country with close proximity to China, the Philippines currently has 30 nickel mines. However, reports surfaced last year from major producer DMCI Mining
that it would be in for a tough 2019 with the government suspension of two of its mines. One has since reopened, but the other remains shuttered; the two collectively account for 2 percent of the country’s nickel output. 3. Russia Mine production: 270,000 MT Even though it regained the third spot in 2019, Russia saw a small drop in nickel production from 2018; having produced 272,000 MT previously, 2019 saw the nation’s output hit 270,000 MT.
As the electric vehicle (EV) industry continues to boom, the future of nickel looks bright in the coming years, and activity in the world’s top nickel-producing countries could increase. With demand for the commodity continuing to grow, companies and countries alike have been eager to jump on the production bandwagon. Having said that, it’s worth keeping the top nickel nations in mind. Scroll on to see our list of the 10 top nickel-producing countries of 2019, based on the latest data from the US Geological Survey. 1. Indonesia Mine production: 800,000 MT Claiming first place for production last year, 14
Indonesia has been a prime example of a country wanting to get in on the nickel hype. In early 2019, it was reported that the country’s nickel industry could soon overshadow palm oil, Indonesia’s secondlargest export. With the country’s close proximity to China, the world’s current leader in EV manufacturing, it makes for an ideal setup. Having grown tremendously from 2017’s production of 345,000 metric tons (MT), the country also hosts 21 million MT in reserves.
Top 5 Nickel producers 15
Norilsk Nickel (OTC Pink:NILSY,MCX:GMKN), one of the world’s largest nickel and palladium producers, performed well last year. A production report on the company’s 2019 results shows that its total nickel output increased 5 percent year-on-year to 229,000 tonnes.
supplier of nickel ore in the world, and Vale’s Sudbury operation is located there. Every year it produces about 65,000 MT of the metal.
4. New Caledonia Mine production: 220,000 MT
From 2018 to 2019, China’s nickel production remained at the same level at 110,000 MT. In addition to being one of the top nickel-producing countries, China is the world’s leading producer of nickel pig iron, which is a low-grade ferronickel used in stainless steel. Jinchuan Group International (HKEX:2362) is the parent company of Jinchuan Group, which is a large nickel producer in China.
The French country just off the coast of Australia saw its production increase slightly from 2018, rising from 216,000 MT to 220,000 MT. 5. Australia Mine production: 180,000 MT Australia, another of the top nickelproducing countries, saw its production increase from 170,000 MT in 2018 to 180,000 MT in 2019. Some top-producing players in the country include BHP (NYSE:BHP,ASX;BHP,LSE:BHP) with its 100 percent owned Nickel West division. The company recently announced its plans to continue growing and investing in the operation as demand for nickel rages on. After nickel’s devastating price crash from 2014 to 2016, a number of mines closed shop. However, as the commodity has recovered, miners down under are giving the base metal another chance. Those include Mincor Resources (ASX:MCR,OTC Pink:MCRZF), which has been actively working on a “nickel restart strategy” involving four deposits in Western Australia’s Kambalda region. 6. Canada Mine production: 180,000 MT Canada actually ties with Australia, as the country saw a slight increase in nickel production from 2018 to 2019; having produced 176,000 MT in 2018, 2019 saw output of 180,000 MT. The country’s Sudbury Basin is the second largest 16
7. China Mine production: 110,000 MT
China also plays a large role in nickel pricing due to the commodity’s role in stainless steel production, which primarily takes place in the Asian nation. 8. Brazil Mine production: 67,000 MT Brazil saw a decline in nickel production in 2019, with output decreasing from 74,400 MT to 67,000 MT. The project hosts a resource of 40.4 million tonnes at 0.78 percent nickel, totaling 315,000 tonnes of contained nickel. 9. Cuba Mine production: 51,000 MT Since then, revenue from nickel exports has trended downwards over the last few years on the back of lowered production and prices. The country exports to China, Europe and Canada 10. United States Mine production: 14,000 MT Lastly, US nickel output fell from 2018’s mark of 17,600 MT to 14,000 MT in 2019. 9
and bikers, builders and construction workers, the mining and security industry, joggers and your everyday individual travelling during rainy winter weather as the mask will not get soaked. The masks can also easily be branded for companies and individuals who prefer uniforms, doing so, Epiroc’s Scooptram Automation Total isinthe highest level of loader automation, corporate and business bringing coloursnew willstandards also be of productivity and safety to underground mining. able to be produced based on client needs.
Epiroc sets the standard of loader automation
Multi machine loader automation enabled by the Traffic Management System, sets the new standard “The mask is designed with enough room in safety and productivity by creating a common between the inner wallthat andcontrols your mask area information environment multiple on your face so there is no interference, fleet of loaders.
making it comfortable to wear all the time,
The Management system is thehaving core of be itTraffic indoors or outdoors while Epiroc’s Scooptram Automation Total package. conversations with others”, adds Elton This system operates the fleet and eliminates the risk of James. collisions in common drifts. The automation area is fully isolated with safety barriers that shuts off the Women can now or even wear liptstick without system if personnel unauthorized vehicles worrying aboutIt itis sticking theirnew masks. accidently enter. possible totobring vehicles into the area and add them to the Traffic The Directors and manufacturers of the Management System stopping the product would likewithout to advise businesses and production, using the check-in/check-out procedure. individuals to buy the Respishield Face Mask
as is reusable and a this once offoffering. buy with "Weitare proud to release new Thisonly is a having to replace the filters. The cost to great step forward in our development of world replace filters is aand fraction of themanagement cost of any leading automation information other mask in the market. Cleaning the mask is as simple as washing it with soap and water, drying it with a towel and putting it back on your face to keep you protected and germ free. The reusable Respishield face mask was developed to save lives and to keep our population safe at a minimum cost to an already struggling economy. By purchasing this product that is proudly South African, you will not only save money but it is also a safer mask for you and your family.
ABOUT BOE DISTRIBUTORS PTY Ltd: The company was founded during the critical time known as the COVID-19 pandemic to help reduce the spread of the virus and keep South Africans safer through protective wear. Epiroc sets the standard of loader automation
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The company’s product, the Respishield face mask is only available on bulk purchases. Individuals who require smaller quantities will be advised on where to source the masks. solutions. Scooptram Automation Total is really a game Industrial changer when it comes to increasing BOE Masks (Low Res) (69 safety of 71) for underground operators and at the same time leveling up theperiod efficiency." The waiting for orders will depend Vladimir Sysoev, Global Product Manager on customer requirements as the products Automation.
Pilanesberg Platinum Mine reaches agreement with the Lesetlheng community to mine on the farm Wilgespruit
is manufactured locally so ordering and delivery will be easy and smooth. Epiroc’s Scooptram Automation Total is a state-of-
the-art technology that takes safety, productivity and cost effectiveness to another level and makes superior performance a reality. From a safe distance in a comfortable operator station, an operator can The company Directors and Manufacturers easily control and monitor the vehicles progress have years the of experience manufacturing throughout mine.
plastic products for the medical, electrical, automotive, packaging - providing all types Scooptram Automation Total is part of Epiroc’s 6th Sense Transport offering. Epiroc’s 6th Sense sets of products.
out to optimize our customers' value chain by offering interoperability solutions that connect automation, system integration and information management to unlock the full potential of The Respishield are now costs. the cheapest production gains atmasks lower operating
mask on the market because you only pay for the mask once and it should last you for a very long time while you only replace the filters.
Pilanesberg Platinum Mine (PPM) today announced the reaching of an agreement with the Lesetlheng community that will enable mining to commence on the farm Wilgespruit in a matter of months. In 2014, PPM with the applicable mining rights, brought an application to evict certain members of the Lesetlheng community that did not accept resettlement as contemplated in the mining plan agreed with the Bakgatla Ba Kgafela Tribal Authority and the Department of Mineral
Resources. Thereafter, the High Court in Mafikeng granted an interdict against PPM, preventing it from continuing with mining operations on the Wilgespruit farm. Notwithstanding appeals by PPM being successful in both the High Court and the Supreme Court of Appeal, the Constitutional Court, on 24 October 2018, overturned the High Court order that had been awarded to PPM to evict the community members from the farm. 19
Renewable Energy feature to debut at IFAT Africa 2021
The Constitutional Court held that mines can no longer rely solely only on their mining right to displace a person or community from their land to exercise their mining right. The Constitutional Court essentially directed PPM and the Lesetlheng community to negotiate a settlement. The settlement now reached not only provides for significant monetary compensation to resettle community members from the Wilgespruit farm, where mining will commence, but also includes a transparent and fair procurement model, together with a progressive Social and Labour Plan, that will benefit both the mine and the broader community. Community voices have expressed their satisfaction and have said that although negotiations were not always easy, they are
excited by the opportunities this will create for their community, as well as for other mining-affected communities, involved in similar negotiations with mining companies. Erich Clarke CEO of PPM commented: “We have travelled a long road together and I am pleased that this agreement enables both the mine and the community to realise future benefits. We look forward to converting words into actions to deliver demonstrable value to our local communities and broader stakeholders. We see this as a victory for all parties and a historical milestone for our industry”. In conclusion, it is hoped that this agreement will be used as a roadmap to build further participation between the community and PPM.
Powering progress across a broad value chain as IFAT Africa launches Renewable Energy Pavilion IFAT Africa, the leading trade fair for water, sewage, refuse and recycling in Southern Africa, has announced a new highlight to be launched at the 2021 trade show – Powered by IFAT, a focused renewable Energy Pavilion, supported by Renewable Energy Track at the IFAT forum. The new pavilion will add value across IFAT Africa and its two co-located shows: food & drink technology (fdt) Africa and analytica Lab Africa, say event organisers Messe Muenchen South Africa. “The three co-located events cover a broad and interlinked value chain across science, food & drink, water, environmental technologies, sewage and waste treatment,” says Suzette Scheepers, CEO of Messe Muenchen South Africa. “All of these
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industries are simultaneously enabled by power and in many respects capable of contributing to the development of a renewables sector. Therefore, we believe the new Renewable Energy Pavilion will attract keen interest from the over 8,000 decisionmakers who attend the co-located events.” Amid growing demand for the delivery of secure alternative energy services, and new opportunities for certain sectors to develop their own power from waste or tap into emerging energy opportunities, IFAT Africa’s new Renewable Energy Pavilion will present solutions and opportunities across the key renewables sectors. These include solar, wind, hydropower, biomass and biowaste technologies and services. PanAfrican decision-makers will have an opportunity to build cross-sectoral networks and assess solutions on the show floor. The Renewable Energy Pavilion is being 21
Could zinc be the secret to a more sustainable future?
developed in partnership with key industry associations and an expert advisory board, and will include a strong supporting programmes including CPD accredited workshops, as well as a focus on SMMEs and women in renewable energy.
staged at the Gallagher Convention Centre from July 13 – 15.
• IFAT Africa is the leading trade fair for water, sewage, refuse and recycling in IFAT’s high-calibre forum programme, which Southern Africa, featuring solutions from around the world and a high-calibre forum addresses key topics across water, sewage, programme addressing various trends, refuse and recycling, will also be challenges and solutions from the water, strengthened in 2021 with the addition of a Renewable Energy track covering issues such sewage, refuse and recycling sectors. as new trends in renewable energies, · analytica lab Africa is the only trade regulations and licensing for IPPs, energy storage, integrating renewables into existing fair for laboratory technology, analysis, biotechnology and diagnostics in South power systems and new project Africa. opportunities in Southern Africa. In 2021, IFAT Africa, food & drink technology Africa and analytica Lab Africa will be
· food & drink technology Africa (fdt Africa), the third successful offset of Messe München’s drinktec, presenting solutions for the African market: from innovative developments for resource conservation to raw materials, through to processing, filling and packaging machines.
In the next decade, the United Nations projects, the world population will grow to a staggering 8.5 billion people. In the next decade, the United Nations projects, the world population will grow to a staggering 8.5 billion people. Supporting a global citizenry of this size will necessitate economic development and the expansion of the global economy at an unprecedented scale. Meeting these needs will place enormous strain on our finite natural resources. As such, it’s crucial that we think in “circles”
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when it comes to the use of metals and minerals to ensure optimisation in its mining, production, product life cycle and, eventually, the recycling thereof. Think zinc One resource that is particularly versatile and abundant is zinc, an essential element for all living things and presenting useful metallurgical and chemical properties. 23
Economy and environment We’re at a crucial point in history where all resources need to be understood to be finite. It’s to this point that the maximum efficiency and re-use of resources, through the cycle of production, consumption and recycling, needs to take priority. Beyond the environment, the economy sets to benefit from the strategic use of zinc.
economy like South Africa, solutions that cost less mean more capital for other projects, and with the more widespread use of zinc this is possible without compromising on quality. As such, when long-term and sustainability enjoys priority over the short-terms gains allowed by taking shortcuts, both the economy and the environment benefit. Full circle?
In both the construction industry and civil engineering sector, zinc, in the form of hot dip galvanising, is used as corrosion protection. Hot dip galvanising of steel structures and steel items such as concrete reinforcing steel is a cost-effective way to prevent premature corrosion of steel and to ensure a long life for steel in corrosive environments.
Currently, one of the biggest barriers to greater sustainability is the linear economic model of “take-make-dispose”. It’s key to rethink this model to keep waste out of the system. Zinc’s inherent features make it possible to completely eliminate the “dispose” aspect of the model.
While hot dip galvanising may cost more initially, it provides a long-term maintenance-free service life, saving significant sums of money normally spent on repainting or coating maintenance over the prescribed life of the project. Hot dip galvanised steel structures can give a trouble-free life of more than 30 years in the right environment. Its maintenance-free longevity offers both an environmental and economic benefit, and in a developing
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Zinc features in our daily lives with applications in everything from agriculture and building to wellness, X-ray machines and much more. Adding to zinc’s overall appeal is the fact that zinc can be recycled without losing or compromising any of its metallurgical properties or overall value, meaning it can be used over and over again. Zinc is not only a sustainable option during use, but the recycling thereof also works to reduce concentrate demand, energy use, emissions and reducing waste disposal. According to the American Galvanizers Association zinc has a reclamation rate of 80%, while some 30% of the zinc currently in use is from reclaimed zinc sources. There is however scope for this number to increase significantly as the technology used
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in zinc recycling is becoming more sophisticated all the time. As the recycling process advances, reclaimed zinc becomes an increasingly viable source for sustainable use across industries. The circular solution A circular approach to the use of metals and minerals will help to reduce the strain on natural resources and, ultimately, prevent the depletion of these life-giving materials. It’s an ethos that also takes the question of climate change into consideration. Key to reducing our impact on the environment, and reducing an industry’s contribution to climate change, is a keen understanding of a particular material’s – zinc in this case – life cycle. Unpacking what happens at each stage, from mining to production, product life time and recycling, is the foundation for developing measures of optimization that reduce costs and protect resources.
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Alternative fuels key to relieving South Africa’s energy pressures
“It is here that waste plays a significant role. As the country moves towards a zero waste to landfill target and where hazardous waste to landfill is already prohibited, there is mounting pressure to find ways to repurpose waste and ironically such repurposing can, and already does, contribute significantly to energy inputs at various production facilities with the opportunity to increase this fundamentally,” says Jason McNeil, CEO at Interwaste. As industry remains one of the largest users of energy, evident by the decrease in consumption over the past few weeks, then so too should they be interested in the creation of alternative fuels to drive down South Africa’s reliance on traditional energy inputs. Let’s take the mining sector for example. Mining is responsible for more than 38%3 of the total industrial energy use locally. Of course, mining is crucial as it contributes to GDP and to a massive portion of exports in a normal world. It also contributes 2444 million tons of marketable coal annually and makes South Africa the fifth largest coal producing country in the world.
Interwaste weighs in on the role of waste
management, in particular mining waste, as a source of relief on South Africa’s fossil fuels and the creation of alternative fuels for industry use. South Africa remains in a dire energy crisis with utility costs having increased by 17%1 most recently and with the local provider desperately needing an additional 5 000 megawatts of generating capacity. And, if we consider that almost 77%2 of South Africa’s 28
primary energy needs are reliant on coal, then there is no doubt that we are heading towards not only an energy, but an environmental crisis too. For energy to truly be sustainable in South Africa – not only increasing capacity, but also ensuring the country is able to meet carbon tax objectives, industry needs to look beyond the use of fossil fuels such as coal, and find alternative energy providing sources.
“It is exactly this fact that places a lot of pressure on this sector to successfully transition towards a low carbon future as well as find ways to reduce their own reliance on energy or, at the very least, ensure they are contributing towards a cleaner energy and future for other industries,” says McNeil. Some waste in the mining sector, like many others, presents a key opportunity for the creation of alternative fuels. In fact, as innovations drive this sector forward, we are likely to see a greater focus on waste streams being repurposed for energy in other industries – as well as for this sector itself. “We can only imagine the possibilities created by mining waste where mining
offtakes, such as old oil, can be converted into a light burner fuel for heavy machinery – not only powering up their own machinery and reducing their energy consumption and carbon emissions, but also providing other industries with such fuel and contributing to larger energy relief,” continued McNeil. If we consider that hydrocarbon oils for example contribute around 5%5 of the total volume of waste produced by the mining sector, there is no doubt that treated through the right process, it presents a perfect waste for repurposing and a huge contributor to other sectors. So, what other waste streams can be used to contribute towards energy/alternative fuels? Waste derived fuels is a key contributor to the energy sector, focused towards hazardous waste products such as liquid sludge, hydrocarbon waste streams and petrochemical waste being blended into a homogenous product with defined energy, physical and chemical properties - which can then be used as an alternative fuel. Currently such waste derived fuel is being soldinto the cement industry as the primary offtake, but there is a strong focus on driving this to other industrial sectors. Refuse derived fuel (RDF) also plays a fundamental role. “At Interwaste we have pioneered RDF locally and have really taken a stringent approach to ensuring we can convert as much industrial waste into this product as possible,” states McNeil. RDF is a solid fuel source recovered through the shredding and bailing of certain presorted dry industrial non-recyclable waste. The RDF produced by Interwaste requires no heat for drying, produces a cleaner RDF and a much higher heating value RDF similar to that of A-grade coal and forms a very suitable and robust alternative to fossil 29
strengthen that through the global application, engineering expertise and in-depth services that Haver & Boecker Niagara brings to the table, such as PROcheck.”
Marroni brings 17 years of experience to the industry. As general manager, his responsibilities include overseeing and streamlining the company’s operations in Mexico while ensuring the highest level of customer service.
Haver & Boecker Niagara recently introduced PROcheck, a comprehensive service program dedicated to keeping customers’ operations running at peak performance. This program aligns with Haver & Boecker Niagara Mexico’s commitment to quality service that customers have come to expect. PROcheck applies Haver & Boecker Niagara’s expertise in diagnostics, processing equipment, engineered screen media, original parts, rebuilds and upgrades, services, plants and process engineering to inspect customers’ screening processes in order to recommend best practices for processing proficiency. An evaluation can be completed quickly, and, if necessary, even while equipment is operating.
PowerOptimal and Electrolux Forge Partnership for CostEffective Solar Photovoltaic Water Heating Solutions the PowerOptimal Elon range, a customer can add solar capability to most standard electric geysers, without the need for an inverter or battery. It is the most straightforward and most convenient means to take advantage of solar and traditional power in an existing solution. “We are very pleased to announce our partnership with PowerOptimal. The company’s sustainable energy solutions align perfectly with our global commitment to sustainability, which is to shape living for the better”, states Mark Moyce, National Sales & Marketing Director at Electrolux South Africa. “By including the Elon into our range of water heating solutions, we are offering developers, builders and all users of geysers a means to take advantage of the abundant solar resource we have in this country at a fraction of the cost.”
“In Mexico, we are dedicated to offering customers superior support and service,” Marroni said. “Haver & Boecker Niagara will
PowerOptimal, a leader in innovative sustainable energy and demand management solutions, has announced that it has partnered with the South African subsidiary of Swedish global appliance giant Electrolux, to bring cost-effective, sustainable solar photovoltaic (PV) water heating solutions to the South African market. This exclusive partnership will see the PowerOptimal’s Elon solar PV water heating technology sold alongside Electrolux’s leading Kwikot Superline electric water heaters (geysers). With the deployment of 30
According to both parties the partnership makes perfect sense, as the organisations are an excellent cultural fit, the technologies integrate seamlessly, and the technical excellence from both are providing a superior technology solution designed to support and grow mass adoption of sustainable energy. The innovative PowerOptimal Elon range enables direct connection of solar PV panels to standard electric geysers. It requires no inverter and no batteries, is cost-effective, offers a long lifespan and requires almost no maintenance, making it one of the lowest cost per unit of energy (kWh) solutions for 31
fuel use. Such fuels can be used within sole/co-feeding plants and replaces conventional fuels (e.g. coal) in production plants for power, steam and heat generation, cement kilns and other suitable combustion installations. If we use the mining sector as an example again, rubber is one of their biggest waste streams (tyres, conveyor belts, etc) and can be put through the RDF process by using technology to strip out the wire, remove beading of OTR (off the road) equipment, cut in half, quarter and shred down into fine particular size for RDF use in other industries.
industries. The alternative fuels listed above are considered sustainable fuels and so, businesses that contribute to, and use, such fuels are given a 25%6 relief on carbon tax payable. “The reality is that, less reliance on fossil fuels within the sector makes room for more coal for the general production of energy, reduces reliance by industry on South Africa’s energy supply and creates a solid case for the reduction of carbon emissions. Therefore, the more industries that can move towards alternative fuels, the better for the economy and the environment. It is a win-win all round,” concludes McNeil.
Haver & Boecker Niagara Expands Service and Support with Mexico Operation
“In fact, we are currently looking at a localised model of RDF where trials to convert hard hats, oily rags, overalls etc can be reduced to a smaller size and converted into an RDF equivalent,” says McNeil. Beyond energy provision and finding alternatives, there is a carbon responsibility in South Africa more now than ever, with carbon tax being implemented across
Ghana is still finding ways of maximising its oil wealth. Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA
Haver & Boecker Niagara, Haver & Boecker’s new mineral processing entity, further demonstrates their dedication to the efficiency and profitability of worldwide mineral processing operations by establishing the brand in Haver & Boecker’s Mexican subsidiary. Fabio Marroni leads the company as the general manager.
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“Haver & Boecker opened our Mexican subsidiary in 2007 in response to the country’s booming aggregates and mining industry,” said Karen Thompson, president of Haver & Boecker Niagara’s North American and Australian operations. “Establishing our dedicated mineral processing brand in Mexico allows us to better serve our customers, all while continuing to provide new and innovative 33
water heating available on the market today. “We are honoured to partner with Electrolux. The company’s market coverage, quality standards, and market-leading customer service make them the perfect partner for our Elon solution,” states Richard Fearon, CEO at PowerOptimal. “Through this exclusive partnership, all PowerOptimal water heating solutions will be recommended and exclusively sold by Electrolux in South Africa. Together we are looking forward to leveraging the technical capabilities of both companies to bring sustainable energy to a larger market of people, previously inhibited by the sheer cost of solar PV technology.”
PowerOptimal’s Elon range solution can run entirely off the grid, or with grid AC power as backup. In addition, it can be used by property developers for conformance to SANS 10400-XA's Regulation XA2, which requires that at least 50% of the annual water heating requirement for all new buildings shall be from a source other than grid electricity.
Leon Cohen, CEO,Rabie
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Lithium iron phosphate versus traditional lead acid battery systems
CHASE Technologies has a distribution agreement with a leading global heavy-duty LiFePO4 battery maker
CHASE Technologies also supplies related equipment such as battery chargers
Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery systems have a much lower total cost of ownership compared to traditional lead acid (Pb) batteries, resulting in enhanced competitiveness and increased profitability. This is according to CHASE Technologies General Manager Brent Fraser. CHASE, an acronym for ‘Chemical and Solar Energy Technologies’, is a specialist provider of LiFePO4 battery systems for forklifts in materials-handling applications, in addition to battery-operated heavy equipment such as cleaning equipment and access platforms.
the efficient operating nominal capacity of 65%, they can still be used in lighter-duty forklift applications or retained as storage batteries, adding value long after the warranty itself has expired.
“We have an exclusive distribution agreement with the highest-volume producer of heavy-duty LiFePO4 batteries globally,” Fraser reveals. These range from small 25.6V 135Ah units, right up to larger 80V 700Ah units. Unlike Pb batteries, LiFePO4 batteries from CHASE Technologies have a full five-year guarantee, which means no unanticipated cell replacements during the contract period. Even when LiFePO4 batteries do fall below 36
LiFePO4 batteries are sealed units that do not require topping up of electrolyte or periodic acid adjustment, and no equalisation charge or cooling periods are required. “You simply charge, plug in and you’re good to go,” Fraser highlights. Representing the most advanced battery technology available at present, LiFePO4 is also environment-friendly. It reduces heavy metal pollution as it is produced without any cadmium, lead or mercury. “Reduced energy consumptions means less electricity required, and therefore reduced carbon footprint from our coal-dominated electricity supply grid,” Fraser points out. The energy density of LiFePO4 is about 140 Wh/kg or three times that of Pb batteries. In comparison, LiFePO4 is only around 33% of
A LiFePO4 battery-powered vehicle can travel 1.35 times longer or further than the same vehicle fitted with a similar capacity Pb battery. During charge and discharge, the energy-conversion efficiency of the former is about 98%, compared to a maximum of 85% efficiency for Pb, translating into a significant 15% electricity saving. Due to their chemical composition, LiFePO4 batteries are also the safest and most stable of all lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries. Li-ion batteries also do not emit any harmful acidic gases and hydrogen during charging, as do Pb batteries, which poses a major health and safety risk. In addition, the absence of any sulphuric acid based electrolyte eliminates corrosion and reduces the premature failure of cables, connectors and battery tanks. With the appropriate ultra-fast chargers from CHASE, a Li-Ion battery can absorb 50% of its capacity from a boost charge time of just 30 minutes. Full charge can be achieved in 60 to 120 minutes, dependent on the charger capacity. Rapid and opportunity charging ensures 24/7 availability. Full charge does not need to occur in one continuous charge, but is equally effective with compound brief charges during breaks. There is no memory effect, which means opportunity charging is ideal for heavy-duty working conditions in long and multiple shifts. Ultra-charging, in turn, eliminates the need for multiple batteries
and battery changeovers, as batteries can be boost charged during breaks or idle times. This reduces the risk of any accidents during battery changeovers and eliminates the need for battery bays with forced ventilation and battery attendants, saving money and freeing up valuable space. CHASE Technologies caters for most customer requirements in the forklift segment. Its all-aluminium casings, inserted in heavy-duty mild steel tanks, are manufactured especially at its Alrode South, Johannesburg facility for extra durability and robustness. These can also be customised for specific customer requirements. In addition, each battery comes with an integrated battery monitoring system (BMS) that safely manages the charge and discharge of the battery, while ensuring maximum possible lifespan. Another key differentiator is that CHASE Technologies has a comprehensive stockholding of both complete battery modules and spare parts, including harnesses, and components for the BMS itself. CHASE Technologies has the capability to supply all Original Equipment Manufacturers, as it is able to rejig its battery packs to fit any brand of forklift. In terms of future growth and expansion opportunities, it will also look to supply ancillary markets such as golf carts, cleaning equipment, access platforms, and even back-up power solutions to assist with load shedding. 37
Countries Went On a Goldbuying Spree Before Coronavirus Took Hold – Here’s Why Central banks added 650 tons to their reserves in 2019, the second highest shift in 50 years, after the 656 tons added in 2018. Before the 2007-09 financial crisis, central banks were net sellers of gold worldwide for decades. Leading the recent spree has been China, Russia, Turkey, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
“Stocking up has made sense to many countries in the populist climate. It is also a sign of countries diversifying from dollars.” The global economy was flashing danger signs long before the pandemic. For one thing, many countries were clamouring to get hold of as much gold as possible. For the past decade, they have been buying new reserves and bringing it home from overseas storage to an extent never seen in modern times. Then just before the pandemic, there was a pause. What does all this mean?
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We have also seen a large effort by central banks to repatriate their gold from other countries, mostly from storage in New York and London. Venezuela started repatriating its gold in 2011, shipping 160 tonnes from New York. A third of its holdings remain in London, but only because the Bank of England won’t repatriate them – declaring it doesn’t recognise the government in Caracas. Venezuela has now made this the subject of a legal claim. Between 2012 and 2017, Germany repatriated most of its massive reserve from
Paris and New York to Frankfurt. The Netherlands did likewise in 2014, followed by Austria. Then came Eastern Europe. In 2018, Hungary announced it would repatriate nearly 3 tons of gold from London, while greatly boosting its reserves. Poland repatriated 100 tons from London a year later, about half of its national reserve. Next was Romania, while Slovakia and Serbia have been considering moving gold home from England too. Why it is happening? This dash to gold is about geopolitics and economics. Gold serves as a patch mark of nationalist identity. To quote Adam Glapinski, governor of the National Bank of Poland, “gold symbolises the strength of [a] country”.
Stocking up has made sense to many countries in the populist climate. It is also a sign of countries diversifying from dollars. The likes of Russia, China and even countries in Western Europe want to break the US dominance of the financial system, having seen it used as leverage in everything from economic sanctions to trade threats. Following the last financial crisis, many also feared there was more to come. When former Slovak prime minister Robert Fico last year urged his parliament to compel the central bank to repatriate gold from London, he argued that overseas reserves could be at risk in a new global economic crisis.
Lubrication is a misunderstood yet essential part of mining operations
ROCOL Scrubs large ultra-heavy duty industrial disposable wipes ideal for the mining industry
BI Offer Marketing Manager Victor Strobel Lubrication is often the most misunderstood part of mining operations. However, it is one of the most important areas as it is essential to ensure mining equipment remains safe and fully operational. Take wire rope lubrication, for example. Traditional wire rope lubricants are toxic and difficult to apply, often requiring complex and hazardous processes just to prepare the lubricant. Furthermore, wire rope lubricants often fling off during use and drip onto floors and surfaces, causing health and safety risks.
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Poor-performing wire rope lubricants do not penetrate and lubricate to the core of the wire rope where frictional wear and corrosion is most dangerous, as it is often not visible to the naked eye. This can lead to rope breakages, with serious implications for operational costs, production output and the safety of mining personnel. However, not all wire rope lubricants are made equal. There are in fact dramatic differences in performance in these key areas between the different wire rope lubricant manufacturers, notes Bearings International (BI) Offer Marketing Manager Victor Strobel. Wire rope lubricants from ROCOL®, distributed by BI, solve important issues for mining customers, such as reducing toxicity and making application of the wire rope.