Australian Mining January 2012 by Prime Creative Media

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COMMENT

Mining Australian

Copyright Reed Business Information Published 12 issues a year by Reed Business Information (ABN 80 132 719 861) Tower 2, 475 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood, NSW 2067 Australia Tel: (02) 9422 2999 Fax: (02) 9422 2966 Publisher – Michelle Graves Email: michelle.graves@reedbusiness.com.au Editor – Cole Latimer Tel: (02) 9422 2352 Email: ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au Journalist – Andrew Duffy Tel: (02) 9422 2884 Email: ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au Key Account Manager – Sarah Bateman Tel: (02) 9422 8994 Mob: 0408 991 585 Email: sarah.bateman@reedbusiness.com.au Key Account Manager – Tim Richards Tel: (02) 9422 2818 Mob: 0407 948 774 Email: tim.richards@reedbusiness.com.au QLD and SA Sales Manager – Sharon Amos Tel: (07) 3261 8857 Fax: (07) 3261 8347 Mob: 0417 072 625 Email: sharon.amos@reedbusiness.com.au New Business – Alex Evans Tel: (02) 9422 2890 Email: alex.evans@reedbusiness.com.au WA Representative – Jamie Wade Mob: 0435 945 868 Email: jamie@wadebusiness.com.au RBI Manufacturing & Electronics Group: Production Co-ordinator – Mary Copland Tel: (02) 9422 2738 Fax: (02) 9422 2966 Graphic Designer – Dave Ashley South Africa – Bob Stephen Stephen Marketing PO Box 75, Tarlton, Gauteng 1749, South Africa Tel: 27(011) 952 1721 Fax: 27(011) 952 1607 USA – Jonathan Sismey RBI 24th Floor, 125 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10017 Tel: (1) 212 370 7445 Fax: (1) 212 370 7441 Email: jsismey@ix.netcom.com Larry Arthur RBI Suite 203, 3700 Campus Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Tel: (1) 949 756 1057 Fax: (1) 949 756 2514 Email: lharthur@ix.netcom.com Printed by GEON 20 Baker Street, Banksmeadow, NSW 2019 Tel: (02) 8333 6555

A new year and new problems What better way to look at it, as 2011 certainly was not a year a lot of Australian miners would like to remember, particularly the ongoing tax battles which they eventually lost.

s it stands, with the Mineral Resources Rent Tax and Carbon Tax looming ahead and ready to be unleashed in July, many miners are just going to be happy it isn't any worse - as seems to be the case for the embattled coal seam gas industry at the moment. While mining seems to get a fairly hard rap, at least the public has a generally wide awareness of what the industry does, how, and their effect on the environment is well documented, whereas with coal seam gas it is hard to keep track of what the actual truth is as both sides peddle an agenda and inaccuracies fly thick from both sides of the divide. So why is this? Why has this form of gas capture captured the imagi-

Comment Cole Latimer ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au nation and brought forth the wrath of so many? Part of this is undoubtedly due to the fact that the coal seam gas industry and technology is largely untested in this country and does not have a strong track record overseas, added to this are dodgy land grab dealings in the US, as highlighted in the fairly biased yet still very disturbing American documentary ‘Gasland’, which have tarnished whatever reputation it might have to built for itself here.

Not to mention some of the cowboy antics by coal seam gas explorers in moving on to farmers' land here. In our search for the truth one of the main obstacles we found was actually getting any straight information from either side that wasn’t tainted with agenda or occassionally outright misinformation. As our journalist Andrew discovered, actually getting anyone in the government to confirm exactly where these coal seam gas wells are is nigh on impossible.

Rather they have been lumped in with every other oil and gas exploration permit with barely any distinction between them. This may have been partly responsible for the ABC's misreporting on their coal seam gas infographic, which showed the industry to be much more widespread than it actually is to date. I doubt, in my entire time at this magazine, that I have seen an industry more misrepresented from either side. It truly is mindblowing to watch the continual back and forth slanging matches between these two opposing side. The truth is somewhere in the middle, maybe. So is the opportunity. But right now it’s a fracking mess.

FRONT COVER On the front cover for the first edition of 2012, we've featured Australians Mining Overseas. It is difficult to find a country in which Australians do not operate, nor where they are not well received. In this issue we look at a crew from Barminco and the mining world record they have set (using a single jumbo) and find out how they managed it, and how Australians operate in Africa. We also look at the development of mining technology and see how one Australian mining company's surveying technology is now being used to uncover land mines.

All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means without the written permission of the publisher. SSN 0004-976X Reader Services – 1300 360 126 Subscription Rates – Australia (surface mail) $140.00 (incl GST) New Zealand A$148.00 Overseas A$156.00

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Contents Safety - mining your own business

January 2012 issue

Features FLY IN FLY OUT Hard money's easy lesson Fly in fly out mining is reportedly bringing more than just miners to town................................................................................... p10 SAFETY Mining your own business Contractor safety levels on site...........................................… p13 How safe is your mobile workforce Changes in legislation drive vehicle safety…........................... p14 HOUSING Putting the squeeze on rural rents Mining town rents skyrockets on the back of the boom …. p16-17 Environment Change in the air Automated dust suppression…............................................... p18 MINING TECHNOLOGY Beating swords into plowshares Developing technology on and off site…................................ p19

Housing - Putting the squeeze on rural rents

AUSTRALIANS MINING OVERSEAS One for the record books Australians setting international mining records................ p20-21 PRODUCT DIRECTORY Conveyors and Materials Handling............................................ p22 Minesite Vehicles.......................................................................... p23 Minerals Processing...................................................................... p24 Qyarrying, Crushing, and Screening........................................... p24 Software and Hardware............................................................... p25 Mapping and Surveying............................................................... p25 PPVC.............................................................................................. p25 Motors and Drives........................................................................ p26 Power Generation and Electrical Equipment............................. p26 Drill, Blast, and Geomechanics................................................... p27

4 January 2012

AustralianMining

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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INDUSTRY COMMENT

Clarity needed on coal seam gas The impossibility of finding straight answers on coal seam gas is hurting the industry.

he ABC’s new Coal Seam Gas: By the Numbers website has rightly drawn fierce criticism from the industry since its launch. Among protestors the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) has been the loudest, labelling the broadcaster’s coverage embarrassing, biased, and misleading. For the most part the APPEA has been right; the ABC made some pretty glaring errors on its site. But when Australian Mining rang up the APPEA to ask how they knew the ABC was wrong and they were right the response we got was a little unexpected. The APPEA said they didn’t actually have their own figures to quote from, but knew the ABC had got it wrong because other gas companies had told

them this was the case. For a dispute over data the APPEA itself has no record of, the criticisms were quite severe. But the APPEA aren’t the only ones lacking a detailed record of Australian coal seam gas operations.

No gas company, industry representative, and amazingly, no government body, have a complete picture of the industry. When companies apply to state governments for CSG licences they apply for broad permits covering all types of

naturally occurring petroleum. Records don’t identify whether a well or exploration zone specifically covers oil, conventional gas, coal seam gas, or shale gas. The result is that it’s incredibly difficult to form a detailed picture of CSG in Australia, and inevitable that anyone attempting to do so to will make mistakes. Such a climate breeds misinformation and a wide divergence of “reliable” data. Take Queensland mining minister Stirling Hinchliffe’s claim on the reliability of CSG wells in Queensland. “A recent state-wide audit of CSG well heads showed 98% had no reportable leak and met strict safety standards.” And compare it to Lock the Gate’s claim on leaky wells. “Over 50% of wells tested in Queensland leak methane.”

Both statements reference an official source, but deliver completely different conclusions. Such divergent “facts” are the product of regulation, study, and record keeping that is buried deep in bureaucracy and difficult to understand. While the APPEA has attempted to address the problem by producing its own fact sheets more serious and systemic change is needed. What’s required aren't more information sheets, but better regulation so access to clear and current information is freely available and easy to understand. Only then will reliable CSG information be delivered consistently. And only then will the industry expand without groups like Lock the Gate capitalising on the information shortage.

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HEADLINES

The latest mining news and safety Australian Mining presents the latest news and safety affecting you from the boardroom to the mine and everywhere in between. Visit www.miningaustralia.com.au to keep up to date with what is happening. MINER KILLED IN PLANE CRASH

XSTRATA WORKERS STRIKE FOR 24 HOURS

A miner has reportedly been killed in a light plane crash in central Queensland. It is believed that the 49 year old pilot was Darryl Marsh, a miner at BMA's Norwich Park coal mine. Marsh, the sole occupant of the single engine Cessna, left Roma headed for Dysart, however the plane went missing soon after takeoff. According to his daughter, Anita Dwyer, Marsh regularly flew himself to work. Search teams found the plane the next day, and confirmed that there were no survivors. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) have yet to confirm what caused the plane crash, and whether it was related to the heavy storms which hit Roma that afternoon.

Workers at Xstrata’s Ulan Coal project north of Sydney went on strike for 24 hours after learning several electrical staff had been dismissed. Employees say they stopped work because of concerns there would not be enough electrical staff to run the mine safely. Workers say they were also angry over roster changes at Ulan that had already seen several workers leave. Construction, Forestry, Mining, and Energy Union NSW southwest president Andy Honeysett said employees had been read a statement this week suggesting Xstrata would be taking legal action over the strikes. An Xstrata spokesperson told Australian Mining strikes had taken place but said a decision to launch legal action had not yet been made.

GREENLAND TARGETS AUSSIE MINERS

KLOPPERS SLAMS FAIR WORK

The Greenland Government is touting its lack of a mining tax to attract the interest of Australian miners looking to develop the country's rich reserves of minerals. Greenland’s deposits remain relatively undeveloped due to the country’s previous focus on fishing, but with global fisheries turning down it is looking to other resources to drive growth. According to a report by the ABC, Greenland minerals and petroleum geology department boss Henrik Stendal has touted the benefits of Greenland as a mining destination. In particular Stendal stressed there would be no mining tax on resources companies wishing to develop projects. “If a mining company has a mine here then they have the right to mine it, and we cannot put new taxes on this mine,” he said. But Stendal said Greenland had already legislated that its future oil and gas income would be funnelled into a wealth fund. Australian miner Ironbark Zinc’s CEO Adrian Byass said Ironbark had already completed exploration in Greenland and was looking to develop a mine over the next three years.

BHP Billiton boss Marius Kloppers says the Gillard Government’s Fair Work act has made it too easy for workers to strike and too difficult for miners to negotiate with unions. In an interview with The Financial Review Kloppers said the legislation came at a difficult time for the industry, which was already suffering from skills shortages. He said he was concerned Fair Work had made it too easy for workers to strike. “It has broadened the range of issues that can be put on the table because the regulations around prohibited content are not the same,” he said. “That means negotiations are more complex.”

8 January 2012

AustralianMining

PIKE RIVER COAL MINE GAS SENSORS COVERED Pike River Coal's board says it would have acted if it knew of the rampant safety problems that affected the mine before it exploded, a Royal Inquiry has heard. It comes as news emerges that plastic bags covered underground gas sensors and explosives were used in an unsafe manner, the NZ Herald reports. The revelation came from Neville

apprenticeship completion rates and numbers in an effort to address skills shortages in Australia’s key industries.

NEW MINE TOWN RENT TASKFORCE

Australian Mining gets the latest news every day, providing up to the minute information on safety, news and technology for the Australian mining and resources industry.

Rockhouse, who's two sons worked at the mine during the tragedy and took the life of one of sons - Ben, and killed 28 other men. His other son Daniel was one of only two men to survive the initial explosions. Rockhouse stated that Daniel has told him of the safety breaches inside the mine, which included impairing the sensors diction ability. He went on to say blasting was carried out to spread stone dust against the mine walls to prevent coal dust explosions.

APPRENTICES SET FOR PAY RISE Apprentices may be set to get a pay rise as part of Government reforms to harmonise apprenticeships and increase completion rates. As part of the Government’s reform package apprentice wages, some of which are as low as $10 an hour, will be reviewed. The $1.1 billion apprenticeships incentives program will also be investigated amid claims some companies are using the fund as a wage subsidy instead of for training. Moves to harmonise and streamline apprenticeship regulations will also mean trainees who move between states will have their training recognised. Skills minister Chris Evans said the Government was looking to increase

Queensland housing minister Karen Struthers announced a taskforce to try and keep skyrocketing rents in mining towns under control. The new Rent Affordability Taskforce will asses the rental market in mining towns and work to provide support, advice, and more affordable prices to renters. The new service will work specifically for low income earners in mining towns and help locals find affordable accommodation. Struthers said in a statement the rapid growth of mining towns had made housing supply a “major issue”. Local councils and the QLD Government have come under fire from locals recently for not doing enough to keep accommodation affordable. Rents in Moranbah have reached $3000 a week in some areas, and temporary accommodation is difficult to find and needs to be booked months in advance.

UG PRODUCTION AT ERNEST HENRY Initial underground ore production has started at Xstrata Copper's Ernest Henry mine in north west Queensland. This announcement marks the move of the mine from an open cut into underground operation. It also extends the mine's life until at least 2024.

RIO CHIEF WARNS OF UNION ACTION Rio Tinto CEO Tom Albanese has backed up Colin Barnett's claims that industrial action in mining is often based on 'trivial issues', adding that Australian miners are paid double what US miners earn. Albanese warned that 'militant type relationships' and aggressive stances by unions threaten mining companies' performances and future, according to The West Australian. His comments come as the ABS

announces a record number of industrial disputes for the September quarter. "I think that we have a risk in Australia that the aggressive IR (industrial relations) agenda against the companies could further reduce productivity in an environment of very high wages," Albanese told the ABC. "Our average pay in Australia is multiple times that of any other country in the world, even in the US we're probably paying twice as much for the same worker in Australia as we are in the US without necessarily higher productivity. I fear a situation where if productivity drops off over the next couple of years for any reason, it could be because of the aggressive labour." However he did stress that historically Rio has had 'constructive relationships' with Australian mining unions.

LITTLEMORE SLAMS ABC FOR CSG "BIAS" Former media watch host Stuart Littlemore QC says the ABC’s new website investigating coal seam gas is factually wrong, biased, and in breach of the broadcaster’s code of conduct. In a scathing opinion published by The Australian, Littlemore accused the ABC of misrepresenting the industry. “My opinion is that the ABC's code was breached by, probably, the website's publication of at least three frankly false representations of fact, and by the inescapable inference that the motivation for such tendentious misstatements of fact was bias on the part of the persons producing the matter at issue,” he said. Littlemore said the ABC’s initial estimate of the industry’s water use was four times the correct figure and “offensively inaccurate” if a source for the fact could not be supplied. He also said the original figure of approved wells, which was reported at 40,000, was incorrect and “unreasonable”. The ABC has since amended the figure, which it claims was informed by a government estimate. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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FLY IN FLY OUT

Hard money's easy lessons

new class of sex worker has joined the ranks of investors flocking to mine towns looking for money. Reports are now rife over fly-in-fly-out escorts visiting resources communities to cashin on the boom. And it’s little wonder, with pickings of several thousand dollars a day available for those willing to make the move. But the booming rural sex industry has some locals up in arms, particularly hotel and motel owners who own rooms being used by sex workers. And others are concerned about young miners and the financial decisions which they are making with their record earnings. While sex workers claim they’ve done no wrong hotel owners are calling for their removal, and say while they have no moral objection to sex work it’s illegal to operate a business out of their accommodation. University of New England associate professor John Scott, an expert in rural sex work, told Australian Mining people needed to be cautious of reading too far into the issue. “The latest reports have been a little exaggerated. It’s always easy to make this topic sensational,” he said. “Sex work has always occurred near mining camps and frontier communities. “Historically there’s been very little concern about that.” Scott said the male dominated nature of the mining industry naturally made the sector attractive to escorts. “Wherever there are large numbers of men with money, and mining is predominantly a male industry, the opportunity for sex work is going to exist,” he said. Some sex workers have bragged of earning $250 an hour working in Queensland’s mining communities. And demand for other services is also high. In a report by Scott, John Hunter, Vanessa Hunter, and Angela Ragusa, an erotic dancer boasted to researchers she 10 January 2012

AustralianMining

Fly-in-fly-out sex workers are now targeting mining towns and community members aren't happy, Andrew Duffy reports.

had earned $950 for a 15minute strip routine. But Scott said while there has been little research he didn’t expect recent reports to be indicative of a massive jump in mining sex work. “There have been no measurements on it, but my hunch is that it would not be epidemic,” he said. Regardless many motel owners say working girls are not welcome and tenants who offer sex for money were asked to leave. Some hoteliers say sex workers do not align with the family orientation of their business, while others say the liquor act does not permit escorts to operate from their rooms. But Scott said his research had discovered very few complaints from motel owners over sex workers. He said working girls usually kept a low profile and it was in their business interests to be discreet.

But there are serious issues pertaining to mining sex work, the most important involving sexual health and safety. In mining communities there is often no local sexual health clinic and a lack of other government services. But Scott said there was no evidence to suggest a rise in rural sex work translated to a rise in sexually transmitted diseases in the mining community. “Sex workers going to mining towns are professionals who know how to manage and run their business,” he explained. “They can’t afford to contract diseases as it’s not good for business.” In smaller close knit communities sex work can also be divisive and cause internal conflict within towns. Confidentiality is also a major issue for escorts in these communities because their client base is smaller.

But these problems are not exclusive to mining towns and are felt throughout all rural communities. However concern is growing throughout the mining sector over how sex workers targeting the industry represent a rising trend of fiscal irresponsibility. With workers now earning record wages, senior miners and some financial advisors say resources companies need to do more to ensure employees have the knowledge to manage their finances. One worker told Australian Mining many young miners treated their income as entirely disposable and “believed they would always earn in excess of $130,000.” “I have not seen or heard of any genuine effort or demonstration by mining companies to educate their workers to make healthy financial decisions for themselves or their communities,” she said.

“Once a year our superannuation company attends site and gives a talk to whomever turns up, this is usually only admin-based people as the operational miners are never taken offline to receive this education because it will mean loss of production for the company.” She said workers not given financial advice were the ones who “inevitably blow their money because they have not had the education to make healthy financial decisions and think about their future.” Patrick Cranshaw from North Brisbane Home Loans, an expert in financial advice, told Australian Mining it was important companies did more to help their workers. “To be fair not everyone will take it on board and run with the advice – but if you don’t know what you don’t know, how can you make an informed decision about your financial future?” he said. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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HELLA delivers. AS 5000LED. The next generation LED work area lamp, honed to ultra-performance, is a direct outcome of HELLA’s long leadership in LED Lamp R&D and manufacture. Conservatively tested to perform at over 5000 Lumens, AS 5000LED is designed to the high standards demanded by the mining industry – the toughest environment for any lamp, not just LED. So AS 5000LED will keep performing, year a er year. How do we know? This is not a bunch of untested components slapped together in unknown places. AS 5000LED has been designed by HELLA from the ground up, subjected to some of the toughest, most extreme tests in the industry – passed with ﬂying colours and awarded Australian and international certiﬁcations.

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SAFETY

MSA blitzes gas tests

Provides wearers with multi-density shock absorbing soles.

Reducing shock forces SHOES have an enormous and rather unnoticed influence on every minesite. Recognising this, Steel Blue has been working closely with the Australasian Podiatry Council (APodC) and the University of Western Australia to develop a comfortable and most importantly safe work boot. Steel Blue says it has designed its latest boots to reduce shock forces and the risk of stress related injuries to the feet and lower body, while also supporting the foot and stance of the wearer. According to the company, its boots are developed using advanced technologies that provide wearers with multi-density shock absorbing soles, full length deluxe polyurethane rebound footbeds, and permafresh poron inserts. The boots also provide increasing cushioning to help feet to work less to protect the body and to ensure the body does not suffer from muscle fatigue as quickly, while at the same time providing comfort. • Steel Blue www.steelblue.com.au

WITH the ever present danger of gas in underground mines, having the right equipment to ensure a safer work site is imperative. Having the best equipment matters, if you don’t, you may have another Pike River on your hands. MSA's Altair 4X was recently tested to see that it stood up to the high benchmarks in Australian mining. According to the company: “when tested against the Australian and New Zealand gas detection performance standards the results not only passed but were dramatically better than industry standards” Testing the performance of gas detectors is a criteria normally reserved for instruments used mainly in underground operations in NSW. Worryingly, a high number of available detectors remain either untested or fail to perform to these exacting standards. Performance, especially speed and accuracy of detection are the critical elements of any safety system that is reliant on gas detection. A slow response can lead to a serious unforeseen risk as Responded to 90% of gas level well as a significant accident – potentially fatal. applied at all levels in less than In independent testing MSA Altair 4X Xcell sensors responded to seven seconds. reach 90 per cent of gas level applied at all levels in less than seven seconds. The allowable tolerance is up to one minute, depending on the gas type and this can be even higher in some industrial instruments. During test for both long and short term exposures, the MSA gas detection system reportedly proved high reliable, returning not only rapid readings but most importantly – accurate readings. MSA stated that all of the readings were well below the allowable ten per cent tolerance benchmark. • MSA Australia 1300 728 672 aus.customerservice@msanet.com www.msa.net.au

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SAFETY

Mining your OWN BUSINESS M

ining has never been the safest business. In Western Australia alone there were a series of unfortunate accidents which saw three miners killed; not to mention the number of serious injuries that occur every day. In Queensland earlier this year a run of safety incidents at coal mines, including tyres exploding, toxic blast fume exposures and underground mine collapses, were lucky not to have injured more miners than they did. On sites right around the country, miners and contractors put themselves at risk from the moment they step on to the facility. New technology and higher standards are ensuring that Australian levels of workplace safety are world leading, but workplace fatalities and industrial injuries still cost companies more than $57 billion every year in medical expenses, lost hours and compensation. According to a new safety research report by Siemens – Picture the Future 2030 Safety – it states that workplace accidents account for around 280 deaths per year. Chris Vains, head of the Picture the Future 2030 study, said that in order to turns this deadly trend around there needs to be a serious focus on the “over casualisation of labour, which is impacting the number of injuries that are seen in the workplace – particularly in contract based industries” such as mining. According to the West Australian Chamber of Minerals and Energy (CMEWA) “contract workers in the mining industry are typically susceptible to higher injury rates than regular employees”. For example, during the 25 years of operation at Rio Tinto’s Argyle Diamonds surface mine its contractor all injury frequency rate (AIFR) greatly exceeded that of its regular employees. Even worldwide “Rio Tinto has seen significantly higher www.miningaustralia.com.au

rates of fatality, serious injury and significant injury cases amongst contractors than employees,” the CMEWA added. “With over 25 per cent of Australia’s workforce made up of part-time or casual workers – we need to step up the standard of safety education with continuous and on-thespot training,” Vains said. Companies such as Rio Tinto, Centennial Coal, and Macmahon have taken this onboard, focusing heavily on safety and incident reporting as a way to stem injuries. This has lead to a massive drop in the reportable injury frequency rates for Macmahon’s surface mining contractors, from its previous rate of 14.96 in 2008 after implementing more safety programs both at the divisional and project level. Rio’s Argyle operations saw an even more impressive slashing of its AIFR after carrying out more training and audits, comprehensive monthly reporting on contract company KPIs and consolidating its prequalification process, as well as including contractors in HSE initiatives, dubbing the development the Contractor Management System.

Despite enviable safety levels in the Australian mining industry, is it the best we can achieve, Australian Mining asks.

The miner managed to reduce its AIFR for contractors down to zero in October 2010. A first for the miner. At Centennial Coal’s Myuna colliery, a focus on workplace culture change saw a slashing of the lost time injury rate from 30 four years ago down to only two. But training alone can not always avert a dangerous inci-

dent – but technology can aid in minimising the potential of it occurring; technologies which can recognise an operator's skill level and act accordingly. “Through the introduction of sensors we see that machines can detect who is about to operate a machine and if they are not trained the machine will literally shut down,” Vains explained. These monitoring sensors

Contractors in the mining industry are susceptible to higher rates of injuries.

can extend to embedded devices contained in miners’ clothing, helmets, or uniforms, which can communicate directly to machinery or vehicles so that a constant stream of clear and personalised safety information is available to all workers, regardless of whether they are a full time employee or a contractor. Vains went on to say that the company “sees a future where there will be no need for a yellow line or barrier stopping workers from doing their work. “Sensors will be able to detect if the employee is qualified enough to operate equipment – and if they are wearing safety goggles – an image will appear as a hologram to provide clear instructions.” Australian Industry Group (AiG) director Mark Goodsell supported Vains vision for mining and industrial safety, saying that the industry as a whole needs to focus on this and training methods to lift safety levels. “Australia is still on ranked seventh in the world for workplace safety – we know that with all the resources and intelligent technology there is no reason we can’t be number one,” Goodsell said. No reason at all. AustralianMining

January 2012

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SAFETY

How safe is your mobile workforce? Ian Daniel* writes about the new Occupational health and safety considerations for mining managers industry.

ver recent years, responsibility for fleet safety has shifted from drivers to organisations and even individual managers – making this a growing issue for Australian businesses. The new Model Work Health and Safety Bill, which came into force on 1 January, further extends the scope of business liability for driver welfare. With many mining organisations managing large fleets, this legislation is set to have a significant impact on the mining community. With this in mind, now is the time to start planning to ensure compliance with the new legislation. The 2012 bill implements a national OH&S standard across Australia whereby a fleet managed vehicle is defined as a ‘workplace’ and a duty of care is imposed on employers to ensure the health and safety of their mobile employees within this workplace. This duty extends to any employee who directly manages a fleet. With the legislation proposing fines of up to $600,000 or a term of up to five years imprisonment for failure to uphold this duty, mining businesses need to put in place solid practices around fleet safety to limit their liability. With the legislation officially introduced on 1st January 2012, the mining industry needs to understand the legal obligations that this bill imposes, including the need to implement solid practices around fleet safety, protecting employees as well as limiting their own liability.

‘So far as is reasonably practicable’ The legislation requires managers to do what is ‘reasonably practical’ to ensure the health and safety of their mobile workforce, including: * Providing and maintaining safe systems of work * Providing the information, training, instruction and 14 January 2012

AustralianMining

their driving behaviour to drive cultural change. Managing vehicle maintenance To provide a safe workplace, managers need to ensure that vehicles are well maintained and fit for purpose. Fleet tracking technology enables mining companies to set up automatic alerts to ensure vehicles and equipment are regularly maintained. Records can also be kept on what services have taken place, including dates and costs against each vehicle.

The new health and asfety bill relates to all aspects of fleet management.

supervision that is necessary to protect employees from risks to their health and safety * Monitoring workplace conditions to prevent injury to employees GPS fleet management solutions can help businesses in the mining sector implement and monitor policies around driver safety, tracking employee behaviour in real time, monitoring fleet conditions and enabling proactive steps to remedy hazards. Tracking driver location For businesses like mine operators, ‘monitoring workplace conditions’ means ensuring the safety of vehicles and staff at all times. This is especially important in the mining industry where drivers are required to drive long distances across remote areas. GPS fleet management solutions enable organisations to locate vehicles to within four meters. Products with satellite or Next-G links provide continuous coverage, even in remote areas, to help ensure the safety of drivers.

Some fleet management solutions also offer accident alerts, sending an automated notification to the mining company on impact. This system allows fleet managers to take remedial action and alert emergency services. Monitoring driver behaviour The new legislation requires ongoing compliance with the fleet’s safety policies. Here

again, fleet management solutions can help mining companies demonstrate OH&S credentials by enabling businesses to monitor and remedy unacceptable behaviours such as not wearing seat belts, putting driver safety at risk. These solutions provide ongoing records of driver compliance with safety policies, allowing managers to counsel employees with hard statistics around

Managing driver fatigue Mine workers are often required to drive long distances through remote areas at night. Managers are responsible for ensuring that drivers take regular breaks to avoid fatigue. Fleet tracking enables managers to monitor the components of an individual drivers work day, including the time spent driving, loading and stationary. This monitoring takes place via a PIN which is required when the ignition is turned on or off. These solutions track driver hours across multiple vehicles, allowing fleet managers to provide a high level of supervision to protect drivers from health and safety risks.

Conclusion: There is no doubt that the legislative landscape is shifting, imposing more responsibility on businesses and fleet managers for driver safety. In the mining environment it is increasingly important for mine operators to understand their legal obligations around OH&S and how to meet them. GPS fleet management technologies help demonstrate a proactive approach to driver safety by reducing risks and hazards as well as helping to limit liability under the new legislation.

Tracking driver location has always been crucial in mining.

*Ian Daniels is Navman Wireless' vice president for Asia Pacific. www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMSCHAUG_11.pdf

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AM.JAN12.PG016.pdf

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HOUSING

Putting the squeeze on rural rents While house prices are rising quickly in mining towns no-oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taking responsibility, Andrew Duffy reports.

ustraliaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cashed up miners are no longer the resources sectorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only winners. Property savvy investors are now capitalising on the boom, raking in thousands a week on country houses. Two such Queensland investors, Simon Pierce and Heidi Weiland from Mackay, told Australian Mining over the past 12 months theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d almost doubled the asking price on their Moranbah properties. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over a 12 month period weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve gone from getting $1,000 a week per unit to $1800,â&#x20AC;? they said. Moranbah real estate manager Bella Exposito told Australian Mining investors had seen $200 to $300 rises on houses since September. And on units returns had been much higher, with Exposito estimating gains close to $1000. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been dealing real estate for almost 20 years and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never seen anything like it,â&#x20AC;? she said. Exposito said rents in Moranbah usually topped out around $2000 a week, but the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest prices hovered around $3400. In comparison some four

Real Estate agents are calling on the Government to release land and encourage construction.

bedroom units with harbour views in Mosman, Sydney, fetch around $1,500 a week. And for $3,500 a week you can rent some of the largest and most luxurious water-

front houses in any capital city. Exposito told Australian Mining that demand was so high in Moranbah it had surpassed the previous record

year of 2008. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Back then there was just nothing available and we had people sleeping in cars,â&#x20AC;? she said. And prices are expected

to keep climbing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a crystal ball, but I would say there is at least another 20 per cent or more left in the market,â&#x20AC;? she said.

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AM.JAN12.PG017.pdf

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HOUSING

Boom town Queensland locals Pierce and Weiland backed Exposito’s call on the growing shortage. “It looks set to continue for at least another two or three years, there’s that much going on at the moment,” they said. Pierce said the growth in Moranbah was evident even over the past four to six months. “It’s been absolutely insane,” he said. “There’s that many people out there, the town is buzzing with activity.” He said accommodation in Moranbah was almost impossible to get, and needed to be booked months in advance. But Pierce and Weiland stopped short of painting too desolate a picture of the region’s communities. “There’s definitely still a family base there, they haven’t been turned into wholly working towns,” they said.

Housing bubble Moranbah’s property distortion is being driven by rapid expansions in Queensland’s coal industry. The developments and their affect on local communities have been mirrored in the Pilbara; Australia’s other mining powerhouse. Resources companies argue the massive influx of workers has helped stimulate local economies and provided opportunities for small business. But many in the community don’t see it that way and there is a growing disquiet among locals about the negative impacts of the boom and its transient workers. Isaac Regional Council Mayor Cedric Marshall told Australian Mining the shortsightedness of resources companies and the greed of property investors had done the damage. “Rents have reached over $3000 a week in Moranbah and that is irresponsible and unsustainable,” he said. Marshall, a straight-talking council veteran who’s spent a decade in local government, laid the blame squarely on investors. “It’s them and their greed www.miningaustralia.com.au

Queensland and Western Australia’s rapid mine expansions are flooding rural towns with workers.

that’s driving the problem,” he said. And his anger is not unfounded. Morgan Crawford, a 21 year-old investor from Perth with a Port Hedland portfolio valued at around $7.4 million, made a fortune investing in mining real estate, and he’s not alone. Exposito told Australian Mining Queensland’s regional housing market was dominated by out-of-town investors. “Possibly 70 per cent of the properties are not owner occupied, they are investors” she said. “And probably 60 per cent come from interstate.” But more than the investors, the governments and miners that created the bubble to begin with are the ones copping the most criticism.

Blame game Rural real estate agents, including Exposito, say the housing crisis is primarily the fault of the council and State Government, which have been slow in releasing land. And Exposito says once land is released it is put to competitive tender, which locals and small businesses almost always lose to resources giants. But Marshall says the decision to hike rents is not made

by governments or mining companies but by landowners. “It isn’t our decision to raise the rents, we don’t have much control over it,” he said. Instead Marshall shifted blame onto miners, and accused them of having been short-sighted with their expansions. “Accommodation should have been one of the first things they thought about with a new development, but unfortunately it hasn’t been that way,” he said. While Marshall admitted government had an important role to play he said new land releases were already on the way. “The land development authority is currently working to release land in Moranbah,” he said. “There has been a little bit of a hold up with that because of some native title issues but we expect that sometime next year there will be more development on the ground.” Marshall said in releasing land and building accommodation governments managed a difficult balancing act. “The nature of the mining business is boom or bust, so we’ve got to be careful with development and make it sustainable,” he said. “We can’t build an extra

5,000 houses and then have no-one living in them a few years later.” In a sign of just how touchy the subject is for miners, BMA told Australian Mining it could not agree to an interview on the issue. But the company said it had made a significant contribution toward accommodation in Queensland, and spent $100 million, or $2 million a week, constructing houses in Moranbah over FY2010. In November BMA also announced a move to add 243 homes to Moranbah and 135 to nearby Dysart. But while these developments will go some way to easing the market, it’s not just those outside the miners that are up in arms over the issue. There’s also anxiety from inside the ranks of resources companies.

Trouble from within While accommodation in rural towns is highly subsidised for miners, employees still have to fight for their compensation. Not all miners get the same packages, and while trades workers continue to be paid top dollar, some claim there is discrimination in where employees are housed. The areas workers live and the housing packages they receive causes friction between employees

at larger companies. Workers are constantly vying for better accommodation, and housing packages are sometimes re-examined. But whatever their deal, the miners are doing well compared to others in the community. Exposito said she estimated BMA employees paid around $60 a week on their properties. And one miner told Australian Mining they paid close to $100 a week. For those outside the industry receiving no rent assistance, the financial pressure is immense, and many have been pushed out to surrounding communities. The strain has also been felt by local businesses trying to attract staff with accommodation compensation. While stakeholders admit there is no easy solution to the problem, all agree action needs to be taken swiftly. And Marshall told Australian Mining the problem “was only going to get worse” unless miners upped their commitment. But while the distant future of mine towns looks uncertain, there seems little doubt rents will rise over the short term. Altough miners say they have what it takes to cool the market others remain unconvinced; and only time will tell. AustralianMining

January 2012

AM.JAN12.PG018.pdf

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ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

CHANGE in the air Environmental management and mine site automation are coming together.

ith the constant drive towards automation and a greater than ever before focus on environmental management at mines, it is not surprising that these two spheres have finally overlapped. This year will reportedly see the commencement of what have been dubbed Australia’s first ever ‘ecomines’, due to the development of fully automated dust suppression and water evaporation equipment. Dust is a huge problem, not only is it very hazardous to health but it also complicates the actual working processes by impairing the visibility of miners, as well as damaging machinery and equipment. Currently the traditional method for dealing with dust is by using water carts to continually spray haul roads or ore loads, but ultimately this is fairly limited in what it can achieve, uses a lot of water, and can not be precisely controlled – which may result in a wet and muddy workplace. New equipment, developed by Techno Alpin, allows mining companies to reduce their impact on the environment by reducing the levels of dust as well as water usage on site, and ultimately reducing a mine's carbon foot print. This technology has been dubbed the V Series, and was purpose developed for mining, quarries, and blasting operations, by Techno Alpin, which is known in Australia as Pro Air Solutions. It is a tailor made hydro jet cannon which lowers the amount of dust in the air by creating a very fine water mist that is able to cover a large area 18 January 2012

AustralianMining

without soaking the workplace. High performance fans produce a linear water ejection pattern for pinpoint accuracy whilst valve technology regulates water flow and droplet size. Typically, the mist contains between 100 and 200 microns. Both the V7 and V12 have nozzle head technology that is capable of delivering between 24 litres and 95 litres per minute, and is also fully automatic so it does not require an operator. According to Pro Air Solutions, the V Series dust suppression machines can be remotely operated and directed via a control room, wheel loader, or excavator cab. V Series dust suppression guns can move horizontally and vertically using a pre-set working program that can provide 360 degrees of movement with

its hydraulic systems, allowing it to create a curtain of water mist which can be thrown nearly 60 metres – around the same size as a football pitch. It is also designed to be used in a variety of different applications, including as a stationary dust reduction system – such as on a haul road or for blast dust management – or it can be used on a trailer, either with or without a generator, making the system mobile. Thomas Peintner, director of Pro Air, stated that it is a cost effective solution especially in the wake of a carbon tax, adding that these dust suppression guns’ application potential is high, especially as it can be controlled from a remote location, removing the need for an operator to be on site and at risk. He went on to say that it also minimises the impact of mining upon

The misting water guns can be remotely operated.

any nearby residents. “Many communities have indicated that they do not have a problem with coal mining as such, but are seeking a solution to ensure that the coal mining companies reduce the dust kicked up by their operations, these products have been designed to address this issue. “With industries such as open cut coal mining on the increase so too must be the focus on environmental management – by using these V Series dust guns a miner can reduce the amounts of toxic material being released into the environment by up to 70 per cent, ensuring the protection of both employees and the local communities,” Peintner said. In the Hunter Valley, the number of air quality monitoring stations has risen, as has the levels of community concern over the effect excessive dust is having on people’s health. As Australia is one of the driest continents on earth water management in mining is always a key issue. With limited amounts of water to begin with, mines need to ensure water is not wasted. “The company has utilised the process of atomisation to also develop the E12 for evaporation to manage excess water usage on site, which is a new and positive step forwards for environmentally responsible companies,” Peintner stated. The E12, which was developed using similar technology to the V Series, has 360 degrees of rotation, 52 degrees of elevation, and has 24 quadrajet nozzles which shoot up to 900 litres per minute at 30 bar output. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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TECHNOLOGY

SWORDS into plowshares

Beating Improving mining from an unlikely source. Sharon Berger writes.

hat does the Israeli defence technology sector have to offer Australian miners? The two seem to be completely different, but surprisingly, there is significant overlap in the industries; operating in remote locations, the need for self-sufficiency, challenging environments and terrain, safety issues and more create an unlikely, but successful, synergy. Israel’s geopolitical reality has resulted in billions of dollars invested in R&D towards defence applications. In recent years, many of these products have been successfully spun off for commercial applications and are literally contributing towards “beating swords into plowshares.” According to Israel’s trade commissioner to Australia, Ehud Gonen, Rio Tinto’s Mine of the Future control room is not too far from operational centres in Israel. “If you look at a modern defence control room and a modern mine site operations room you can see the extensive similarities between the two. Both terrains are extremely dangerous environments with explosives and large dangerous vehicles all around. The environments are usually in rural locations that are isolated which require the site to be self-sustaining. With the

Israeli water management technology is already seeing use on minesites.

rural locations dust and sand are part of the territory, but reliability of technology is of the utmost importance and in some situations can be lifesaving,” Gonen said. Everyone in the mining industry recognises that, increasingly, technology will be on the centre stage for all of their future plans. Smarter use of technology enables mining companies to solve many of their outstanding challenges – whether they are manpower, environmental, OH&S, geological or cost efficiency issues. Israeli technology has already been successfully adapted in mines around the world primarily helping mining companies with their water and wastewater treatment issues, a serious problem in Australia’s mining industry. Major potential exists to expand their involvement by adapting defence technology to a range of mining environments.

Utilising Israeli expertise in robotics and remote control, accurate positioning, training and the use of sophisticated sensors are just some of the possible synergies, helping minimise environmental damage and maximise personnel safety. Aeroscout is one example of a company that has already successfully transitioned their products from defence to mining. In Australia, Aeroscout has rolled out its Wi-Fi based active RFID system, which is used to track personnel, improve safety and raise productivity. The tags are seamlessly integrated into the battery packs of cap lamps worn by the miners. SimiGon and Simlat are another two examples of Israeli companies looking to expand in the mining sector. Their simulation-based training offers safe and customised training for operating equipment. The systems, traditionally used by air forces and commer-

cial airlines, can be adapted to mining simulation solutions. However, Gonen says adapting Israel’s technological expertise to help improve mining conditions and production in Australia is still largely unexplored. Most surprisingly though is the reverse engineering of mining technology. Australian-based HyVista Corporation, which conducts aerial hyperspectral surveys, was at the core of Israeli company GeoMine’s efforts to develop a system for locating undetonated land mines via aerial photographs and remote sensing. GeoMine is able to detect nitrogen that has leaked into the soil from the land mines, and has used this technology in Israel, Thailand, Azerbaijan, and Angola to inspect 100,000 kilometres a day of suspected minefields, significantly reducing the hours required to detect the mines by individuals as well as reducing the danger.

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AustralianMining

January 2012

AM.JAN12.PG020.pdf

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AUSTRALIANS MINING OVERSEAS

One for the

RECORD BOOKS

A world record is highlighting the length Australian miners go to overseas.

ustralian contractors operating overseas have a reputation for working harder, faster, and better. If they can manage to get more out of their machines and themselves, then they’ll find a way. So what better exemplifies this reputation for hard work than a world record? Two Australian miners Barminco and Ausdrill, working through their joint venture company African Underground Mining Services (AUMS), have managed to achieve a world breaking mining record at Rangold Resources’ Loulo mine at its Gara project in Mali, West Africa.

Australian standards in five metre by five metre headings. Speaking to Barminco’s business development and commercial manager David Noort, he told Australian Mining “this feat surpasses anything I’ve seen before. “One jumbo, installing its own rockbolts and full mesh, managing to achieve this advance within one month is singularly one of the most

spectacular feats of development mining performance I have come across.” One that pushed the machine, and the miners, to the limits. Noort went on to say that this achievement was made more impressive by the increased operational complexities the contractors faced, as firstly the team managed to carry it out in Mali – one of

the poorest and most remote countries in the world; dealt with a language barrier – both French and the native Bambara language, neither of which many Australians speak; and also had a cultural barrier to overcome, all the while training workers. “What they have managed to do has completely changed the value proposition of [Rangold Resources’ Gara project],

Breaking new ground According to the contractor, AUMS managed to achieve a new international resources record during its mining of more than five kilometers of development in a single jumbo operation since work commenced at the Loulo mine site in April 2010. In July 2011 three crews working on a Sandvik jumbo achieved 603.1 metres advance in a single month alone, fully bolted and meshed as per 20 January 2012

AustralianMining

Three crews on a single jumbo advanced more than 600 metres in a single month.

and really it has surpassed what they are managing to do with seven jumbos at other operations, and all of this in such a short time. “From the start of the jumbo’s work to when they achieved this record – it was only 18 months in total,” Noort stated. This included training. “I don’t know how they did it, but I would love to see them at work,” he added. Barcminco’s operations manager for Mali, Kevin Flynn, explained to Australian Mining just how this milestone was achieved. “[The record] was a huge effort by a great team of highly skilled jumbo operators with experienced supervision which was supported by a team of LHD operators and charge up operators, who all had a firm commitment to working together to achieve this target. “We also had a new jumbo drill available with great support from our mechanical and electrical departments. “Our use of large sheets of mesh in our ground support installation also made the whole process much more efficient,” Flynn said. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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AUSTRALIANS MINING OVERSEAS

African issues But while this recent world record is an example of what can be achieved there are always a number of hurdles to overcome when Australians operate in Africa. Especially in some of the poorer nations such as Mali. As Noort stated, “Africa can be difficult”. An understatement and a half. Some of the major problems are the geographic hurdles and logistics. Noort explained that “the physical side is an issue; it really is a significant challenge.” He said that with the massive distances between most mines and existing infrastructure often a company will find that it has to construct the infrastructure itself as there is nothing there. “You can’t just go ordering the services, you need to establish the infrastructure yourself but once you have it eventually becomes an opportunity as it can keep your competitors out of the market in terms of contracting.” The people and the com-

www.miningaustralia.com.au

general work well in the region, whereas South African miners don’t travel so well in the area and in mechanised mining belts, as they don’t have that exposure to the organisation required for this type of mining, or the capabilities for mechanised mining,” Noort said. Given this reputation and the mining boom, this has “created a perfect storm for Australian operators looking to work in Africa”.

Operations The record-breaking jumbo team working at the Loulo mine.

parison of African standards against Australian benchmarks also make operating on the continent a different experience for miners. “One of the issues contractors often face is high expectations – such as the expectation that someone is actually able to drive when they apply for a job as a truck driver on one of the mines,” Noort told Australian Mining. “The criteria for success have to be different,” he said.

Australians in Africa Despite the difficulties faced, most Australian operators have been welcomed at mining operations throughout Africa, with the general perception of them as “more egalitarian” than some other nationalities. “This travels quite well,” Noort said, as “there is no background of perceived hierarchy and people tend to be taken at face value, which means Australians generally tend to do well in Africa, more

so than some other countries. “We’ve never faced any major problems from the local people,” Flynn said of his experience in Mali. “All [the locals] are happy with the way our company operates and are very pleased and supportive of our safety standards and our commitment to the project,” he added. Their ability to work in remote region and mechanise mining is also noted. “Australian contractors

In Africa, Barminco operates at a number of underground mines, at Rangold Resources' Gara and Yalea gold mines in Mali; at Kinross Gold’s Akwaaba Deeps and its Paboase South gold mines as well as Newmont’s Ahafo gold mine in Ghana; and finally at Pharaoh Gold Mines’ Sukari operation in Egypt. It has operated through its joint venture, African Underground Mining Services, since 2007. According to Flynn, it is looking to expand throughout region via its reputation from its Mali and Ghana operations.

AustralianMining

January 2012

AM.JAN12.PG022.pdf

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PRODUCT DIRECTORY: CONVEYORS & MATERIALS HANDLING

Secondary belt cleaners FLEXCO has launched secondary belt cleaners with slide out cartridges. It has released the Mineline MHS Secondary cleaner with service advantage cartridges. The cleaner only needs one operator to remove the cartridge, which they can do from one side of the conveyor or the chute wall. Following the removal of a pin, the cartridge Equipped with carbide tipped blades. slides out easily with the use of a cartridge removal tool, which stores in the pole for easy access. Replacement can be completed in a matter of minutes and multiple cartridges can be replaced during the same maintenance period. The slide-out service makes this cleaner ideal for use in tight spaces, enhancing safety by deterring operators from crawling under the conveyor or getting into dangerous spaces. During maintenance, the cartridge’s interface with the pole is minimal – reducing the possibility of corrosion and fusing with the pole. The cartridge is equipped with hard-wearing carbide-tipped blades for use with mechanical belt splices. V-tips are also available for use with vulcanised belts. • Flexco 02 9680 3322 www.flexco.com.au

Conveyor dust seals KINDER has released its KSnap-Loc Dust Seal System for the containment of dust build up on conveyors. The seal is easily installed by tacking the mounting rail to the system, and snapping the dust seal into place, a pin will hold it effectively into place. It is designed to prevent Prevents dust build up on conveyors. silicosis on site while preventing material loss. It is made from high Performance Polyurethane and can outlast rubber seals and reduce drag on conveyors by 60%. K-Snap-Loc Dust seal utilizes urethane’s inherent “memory set” to apply downward pressure onto the belts surface to create a fine tight seal, so there is no need for manual adjustment, reducing costly downtime. The dust seal is suitable for most conveyor applications. • Kinder & Co. 03 9587 9244 www.kinder.com.au

Ore transfer

Idler pulleys

WA-based minerals processing equipment supplier Minspec has highlighted its innovative ore transfer system said to extend equipment life, reduce dust and noise and lower power consumption. Its Weba Chute System can control the direction, flow and speed of ore. Underpinning the technology is transfer angles in particular zones within the system that can be modified. This ensures that the flow and direction of the final ore discharge matches conveyor belt speed and direction. Layers of wear-protected ledges assist in controlling the flow of ore, minimising machinery wear. The system’s horse-shoe shaped cross-sectional flow profile promotes optimum flow of material. Its design eliminates valley angles and low flow rates that can result in material build-up. No skirting is required for some applications, and there’s no uneven or multiple belt loading. “The system basically enables product to flow freely down the chute changing angles as necessary without any blockages,” Minspec director Mel King told Australian Mining. “As the material comes up the conveyor belt it discharges into the chute. “The ledge fills with material and as the new material comes down it just slides down on itself and gradually cascades to the bottom of the chute.” • Minspec Mel King 08 9355 2822 melk@minspec.com.au www.minspec.com.au

PIES Australia have release new idler pulleys designed specifically for timing belts. The new Type P Pulleys come in eleven standard sizes to suit almost any timing belt. Built from aluminium, they are fitted with two high quality deep groove ball bearings, with guide flanges to help keep the timing belt on track. According to PIES they are a cost effective solution for any belt drive design, whether they have a fixed shaft centre distance or an existing drive that requires and idler. It can be run on the teeth or outside of a timing belt. These idlers can work with a number of belts, including polyurethane, rubber, metric, and imperial timing belts. Sizes range from 20mm up to 120mm OD and suit everything from 6mm wide 2mm pitch timing belts up to 50mm wide 20mm pitch timing belts. PIES says. • PIES Australia 03 9303 2063 sales@piesau.com.au www.piesau.com.au

Wing pulleys SUPERIOR Industries has expanded its line of Chevron Wing Pulleys. It is now building a style rated for CEMA applications, which make infrequent starts and Prevents material lodging on conveyors. stops. The pulleys have a V-shape construction and designed to deflect material and prevent it from lodging better than standard wing pulleys are able to on conveyors. This results in less trapped fugitive materials and less conveyor belt damage. Other benefits include much softer decibel levels generated by the Chevron wing pulley. According to Superior, a standard wing pulley produces about 120 decibels of sound, while the Chevron wing pulley sustains a level of 70 decibels. The company says that is like comparing a jet engine to a vacuum cleaner. With the addition, Superior’s Chevron wing pulleys are now available in CEMA rated construction with diameters from 10” to 20” and face widths from 20” to 63”, plus Mine Duty and Super Duty styles with diameters from 12” to 48” and face widths from 12” to 78”. • Superior Industries www.superior-ind.com

22 January 2012

AustralianMining

Comes in eleven sizes.

Conveyor monitoring CONVEYOR Belt Monitoring (CBM) is showcasing two new non-invasive conveyor belt monitoring products. Both are designed to extend the safe working life of conveyor belting and maximise the return on assets during materials handling. Headlining its latest developments is CBM’s Longitudinal Rip Detection System which is non-contact, has nothing embedded in the belt and works with belt types such as steel cord, fabric and solid woven. Supporting the system is CBM’s new Vision/Profile Monitor. This system allows for visual inspection and cover thickness to be determined without stopping the belt and therefore it does not impact on production. • Conveyor Belt Monitoring Jonathan Krane 02 9979 6644 jonathan.krane@cbmi.com.au www.cbmi.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

AM.JAN12.PG023.pdf

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PRODUCT DIRECTORY: MINESITE VEHICLES

Dump trucks HITACHI has announced a change to its distribution of articulated dump trucks. The Hitachi branding of the trucks changed to Bell, the Articulated earth movers. original manufacturer of the trucks. This rebrand to Bell improves machine and parts available by allowing direct access to manufacturer stock. Hitachi national product manager Gregg MacKenzie said “this change from Hitachi to Bell provides improvements in supply chain efficiency and aligns our sales of articulated dump trucks with the global distribution of the Bell brand”. The dump trucks are essentially the same product, with the only difference being the decals and colour. Features, specifications and capabilities are identical between the brands. The national parts and service network for both Hitachi and Bell articulated dump trucks remains unaffected by the branding change. • Hitachi 1300 448 2244 www.hcma.com.au

Skid steer loaders BOBCAT has launched the new S650 skid steer loader. This latest loader comes with a vertical lift path, 55.41kW, rated operating capacity of 1220 kilograms and provides greater Has a lifting capacity of 1220 kilograms. forward reach at full height for loading over dump trucks. The cab design allows for improved visibility, with the rear window 14% larger and the top window 43% larger for when operators are loading trucks or using attachments with raised lift arms. The S650 loaders’ cabs are pressurised to keep dust to a minimum, and also provides a large swing open door to make entry and exit of the can easier. Bobcat’s skid steer load has powerful hydraulics, top digging and pushing power and an increased fuel capacity. • Bobcat Australia 1800 643 853 bobaust@bobcat.com.au www.bobcat.com.au

Motor graders CATERPILLAR has released its M Series 2 Motor Graders. The new 140M2 and 160M2, as well as its all wheel drive (AWD) relatives, the 140M2 AWD and 160M2 AWD are equipped with clean burning, fuel efficient engines which meet Tier 4 emissions standards. Designed for a broad range of tasks, including heavy blade work, road maintenance, ripping and precision finishing applications, the M Series 2 all use the Cat C9.3 ACERT engine with Variable Horse Power. The 140M@ and 160M2 have ranges of 144kW to 181kW and 159kW to 196kW respectively. Net power ratings for the AWD versions are between 151kW to 181kW for the 140M2 AWD and 166kW to 196kW for the 160M2 AWD. The graders also significantly reduce emissions using the Cat NOxReduction System, which captures and cools a small volume of exhaust gas, then returns the cooled gas to the combustion chamber to reduce nitrogen-oxide emissions. It also includes an aftertreatment unit which features a diesel oxidisation catalyst (DOC), a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the Cat regeneration system (CRS). These motor graders feature the Cat control system, which uses electronic joysticks to provide precise control of the machine and results in nearly 80 per cent fewer hand and wrists movement compared to conventional motor grader control. The M Series 2 also come with selectable blade lift speed modes which allow for more exact control to match lift response to the job. Beginning mid-2011, the M Series 2 models offer the new Cat Grade Control Cross Slope system. • Caterpillar www.au.cat.com

Premium backhoes KOMATSU Australia has released a premium specification version of its WB97R-5EO backhoe called the ‘Platinum’ version. This premium spec backhoe incorporates what were previously options as factory standard. Its premium-spec features include: two-way attachments piping, allowing a complete range of attachments, such as hammers, augers, compaction plates, profilers and others to be fitted with no additional modifications; hydraulic quick Options now come as standard. hitch; hose-burst protection valves on the backhoe, loader and stabiliser hydraulic lines, to protect workers and operators in the event of a hose failure; full hydraulic sideshift; and a four-in-one bucket. On top of this, it is powered by a 74kW Tier III compliant Komatsu S4D104E-3 diesel engine and uses a HydrauMind closed centre PPC hydraulic system. All controls are joystick-operated for low-effort operation, are within easy reach of the operator, and the seat/control positions can be easily adjusted to suit any operator’s individual preferences. On the backhoe unit, new features include the S-shaped excavator-style boom and hydraulic sideshift. An electro-hydraulic differential lock, combined with Komatsu heavy duty axles provides increased traction and efficiency in poor underfoot conditions. The backhoe has an operating weight of 7.56 tonnes; a digging depth of 5.29 metres; a maximum dump height of 4.39 metres; a bucket breakout force of 6100 kgf with an arm breakout of 4000kgf. • Komatsu Australia 1800 566 287 info@komatsu.com.au www.komatsu.com.au

Collision avoidance MINE Radio Systems (MRS) have unveiled what it says is new cost-effective and robust technology for collision avoidance, monitoring and reporting. The MRS Solarian Collision Prevention Solution uses transponders to collect vital tracking information, then alerts personnel and vehicle drivers of approaching dangers with audible and visual alarms. An adjustable detection range and real-time reporting capabilities enhance the system’s appeal. The Solarian system can be integrated with other MRS communication systems or can be deployed as a stand-alone unit. It can be easily installed or relocated. “Mining and tunnelling collisions can result in major production losses, costly repairs and equipment purchases, injuries and/or fatalities so collision prevention protocols are vital,” MRS’s Graeme Corbett, managing director said. “The Solarian overcomes the performance limitations and high costs associated with other technologies to deliver the reliable collision avoidance coverage necessary to establish and maintain critical monitoring of personnel and assets. “It means personnel injuries or deaths, vehicle collisions and lost productivity are no longer a concern for mining and tunnelling operators,” he said. MRS has been supplying communication technology to the mining and tunnelling industries for 25 years. • Mine Radio Systems 08 9091 9999 australia@mineradio.com www.mineradio.com www.miningaustralia.com.au

Electric rope shovel

Provides a 108.9 tonne payload capacity.

P&H MinePro have announced the order of the first AC drive P&H MinePro 4100XPC electric rope shovel for Australia. To be delivered to Rio Tinto’s Hail Creek coal mine in Queensland, the AC drive P&H 4100XPC is a heavy duty electric rope shovel that provides a 108.9 tonne payload capacity specifically designed to operate in high production mines. The new shovel is scheduled to walk off the pad in 2012. Rio Tinto Coal Australia Managing Director Bill Champion said the new shovel will join two P&H 9020 draglines and the existing shovel, also a P&H 4100XPC, at the Hail Creek Mine. “Hail Creek Mine put their first P&H machine, a 9020 dragline, to work in 2004,” Champion said. • P&H MinePro Services (Australia) Julia McMurray 07 3240 4660 jmcmurra@minepro.com.au www.minepro.com.au AustralianMining

January 2012

AM.JAN12.PG024.pdf

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PRODUCT DIRECTORY: QUARRY, CRUSHING & SCREENING/MINERALS PROCESSING

Blockage clearer KOGA Group has released Screen Machine Industries’ the new Crusher Blockage Clearance Apparatus for its tracked impact crushers. Screen Machine Industries solution is the Designed to safely clear crusher advanced ‘Crusher Blockage blockages. Clearance Apparatus’ a wireless remote controlled pivoting device between the chamber lid and the chamber housing. With the push of a button the lifting lid of the chamber will raise and lower vertically relative to the housing opening without having to shut down the machine. The cycle creates a temporary increase in the height, permitting the bridged material to pass freely through the chamber without loss of time or productivity. The advanced new device comes as standard on Screen Machine Models 4043T and 5256T tracked Portable Impact Crushers. • Koga Group 03 9555 8121 info@koga.com.au www.koga.com.au

Level switches TRIMOD Besta have launched ATEX certified level switches. The level switches now have IEC Ex Certification in addition to ATEX certificates, enabling them to be used in Ex ed and Ex ia applications in Australia. Unlike most level switches on the market, it adopts a three-module design concept comprising Uses a three-module design concept. the switch module, the flange module and the float module. This enables unlimited level switch combinations that will reliably manage applications requiring high pressure components, self checking switch elements, or corrosion resistant wetside parts. Switch modules are available with electric, electronic or pneumatic output signals. The switches are shock and vibration resistant. High and low temperature and explosion proof versions are available. The switches are especially designed for easy installation with a hinged cover, captive screws and the self-lifting terminal clamps. The float modules, like all wetted parts, are made of stainless steel, Hastelloy C or high quality plastics. • Control Components 02 9542 8977 www.controlcomponents.com.au

Minerals processing

Laser liner scanning SCANALYSE is promoting the CrusherMapper, the latest addition to its award-winning 3D laser scanning technology for managing gyratory crusher liners and mill liners. CrusherMapper enables relining schedules to be extended and optimises crusher operating parameters by providing high-density quantitative measurements for determining mantle and concave wear. CrusherMapper can be used in conjunction with Scanalyse’s MillMapper technology to enable mineral processing operations to achieve reliable and accurate forecasting of liner wear; optimise grinding mill and crusher performance by delivering the most comprehensive, timely and accurate technical reports; lower operating costs by reducing the downtime associated with maintenance and inspections and extending the life cycle of major wearing parts; increase production revenue through productivity improvements; enhance safety by removing the need for personnel to enter an unsafe environment. MillMapper generates a 3D wear liner thickness model which produces accurate, reliable and complete wear information on all internal mill components. • Scanalyse Pty Ltd Holly Halim 08 9355 4422 holly.halim@scanalyse.com www.scanalyse.com.au

Jaw crushers METSO has debuted its new C120 Jaw Crusher. The 13th member of its C-series range of crushers, the C120 has focused on reliability and crushing. It has several new design elements, such as a long and aggressively directed stroke, and a fixed jaw die longer than previously seen in this crusher size class. The C120 has a large feed opening of 1200 by 870mm and an ‘aggressive’ cavity cross section Has an aggressive cavity for a high performance and reduction ratio. section. In terms of cavity volume and crusher weight, the C120 fits between the existing Metso C116 and C125 jaw crusher models. Due to its compact design it is easy to install, and comes with an optional integrated motor and bed and guards. It also has rubber mounting pads underneath the crusher mounting brackets. No separate horizontal supports are needed. The crusher itself can be mounted in multiple ways to ensure an easy fit onto an existing or new steel structure. For easy adjustments, it is possible to select either a mechanical or hydraulic setting adjustment system. In the case of jaw dies, several cavity options are available, and depending on the customer’s preference it is possible to use either single- or two-piece jaw dies. • Metso Ilkka Somero ilkka.somero@metso.com www.metso.com

24 January 2012

AustralianMining

Custom designed minerals processing.

MCLANAHAN Corporation have showcased some of the latest design developments in minerals processing equipment. Custom-designed equipment, including new DDC sizers used in wet coal processing along with high capacity scrubbers for improving iron ore yields and options – and described by the company as innovative products combining high capacity with low footprint product sizing. In addition, McLanahan Corporation, established in the US 176 years ago, focuses on providing specialists to discuss a range of hard minerals processing applications, from primary crushing to tailings de-watering solutions and automated product sampling. Based in Newcastle, the corporation’s Australian division, McLanahan Australia, offers mineral and aggregate processing and bulk material sampling equipment. • McLanahan Corporation 02 4924 8248 sales@mclanahan.com.au www.mclanahan.com

Classification and screening LUDOWICI have highlighted a significant range of new minerals processing equipment. The focus is on its patented RC2020 Reflux Classifier for cleaning fine coal and minerals and which, according to Ludowici, is set to revolutionise the global mining industry. The classifier, which can separate particles by either density or size, was developed through a joint venture Minerals processing tanks. between Ludowici and the University of Newcastle. It combines three technologies: a Lamella settler, an autogenous dense medium separator and a fluidised bed separator. The RC2020 is said to be an ideal alternative to spiral technology – but with a footprint up to six times smaller than spiral systems. It is also estimated to provide a 10% increase in raw material recovery and was recognised by the IChemE2010 Awards in the UK, winning the Core Chemical Engineering category for maximising resource efficiency. Rojan ceramic hydrocyclone components have also been a focus. The advanced ceramic metals used in Rojan Hydrocyclone components are proven to provide superior wear performance, improving processing efficiencies and reducing operating maintenance costs. Ludowici has also showcased its latest screening solutions. The products will include a versatile range of advanced screening media including engineered screen deck systems and polyurethane products. Sealing solutions has been another focus, with Ludowici having been involved in the sealing market since it began operations in 1858 as a leather tanner. In April last year, the company acquired Amseal. • Ludowici Australia 07 3121 2900 enquiry@ludowici.com.au www.ludowici.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

AM.JAN12.PG025.pdf

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PRODUCT DIRECTORY: SOFTWARE, MAPPING & SURVEYING/PPVC

Wave and read digital levels TOPCON Positioning Systems has released the DL-500 series of digital levels, which incorporate the world’s first ‘wave and read’ technology. This technology provides additional survey style options that allow a rod person to wave the staff back and forth instead of keeping the staff plumb. The staff reading becomes the minimum when it stands vertically, with the DL-500 tracking the waved staff and reading the least value. This allows for ‘error free readings of waved staff while reducing the operator’s eye strain,’ according to the company. The DL-500 also incorporates the advanced RandomBidirectional code (RAB code) for the staff and digital processing More survey options. algorithm for staff reading. This increased accuracy means when the staff surface is in dim lighting conditions as low as 20 lux, it still shows reliable results. It automatically recognises the staff directions, either upright or inverted, eliminating manual errors when surveying with normal and inverted readings. • Topcon Positioning Systems 1800 867 266 www.topconpositioning.com.au

Mobile laser scanning

Improves scanning safety.

MAPTEK is demonstrating the qualities of mobile scanning over traditional tripod setup scanning. According to the company, mobile scanning can be carried out in half the time of traditional laser scanning. “We have hard evidence showing that laser scanning is a viable alternative to aerial mapping, which also requires additional time and effort for 3rd party processing,” Maptek general manager, North America, Jon Larson said. The Maptek I-Site 8800 long range laser scanner has been set up with a ruggedised vehicle mount on a light duty truck. The scanner is operated from within the cab, allowing normally inaccessible areas to be captured without risk to personnel. “The benefit of running the scanning system at a site is that surveyors get a very clear demonstration of the speed and ease of collecting data,” Larson added. “The system improves safety by allowing personnel to operate the scanner from inside a vehicle.” Maptek’s latest hardware, the I-Site 8800 laser scanner has a data capture range of up to 2000 metres. • Maptek 08 8338 9222 www.maptek.com

Mine management LEICA Geosystems have launched the second generation of its Jigsaw mine management system. AIMEX visitors were among the first in the world to see the new Jigsaw developments with an interactive machine and systems simulation on the Leica stand. Leica says the second generation Jigsaw technology represents the industry’s first fully integrated hardware and software platform which seamlessly New Jigsaw developments. links three key levels of mining operations: fleet management, product optimisation and high-precision guidance. “We don’t build trucks. We build technology solutions that allow mines to maximise every aspect of their operations – solutions that integrate information and control across all equipment no matter what type or which manufacturer,” the company’s chief executive officer, Haydn Roberts, said. Leica Geosystems’ technology is used at more than 100 mine sites in 16 countries, with more than 50 of these implemented after the launch of the first generation Jigsaw platform at AIMEX in 2001, he said. “We were excited to launch our second-generation Jigsaw platform at AIMEX 2011,” Roberts said. • Leica Geosystems Mining Stefana Vella 07 3117 8977 stefana.vella@leica-geosystems.com www.leica-geosystems.com/mining www.miningaustralia.com.au

Pneumatic valve interlocks FORTRESS has unleashed its redeveloped pneumatic valve interlock range. The units feature a modular design that allows the configuration of an array of valves, trapped key interlocks and key switches in any combination. The pneumatic valves (PV+) are suitable for the isolation of a pneumatic power sources and are key free, but can also allow the unit to be used in conjunction with other functional modules. The PV+ has been designed to complement the Fortress mGard range of mechanical key interlocks for heavy applications, which work by releasing and trapping keys in a predetermined sequence to ensure safe operation of dangerous Feature modular design. machinery; access is not permitted until a safe condition has been achieved. With the new PV+, a combination of isolation/access keys is possible, with sequential or non-sequential key operation available. The PV+ has been designed with a zinc alloy valve body and mild steel zinc coated plates. • Fortress Systems 03 9771 5350 australia@fortressinterlocks.com www.fortressinterlocks.com

Froth pump GIW Industries have launched its new High Volume Forth (HVF) pump. The pump can move froth without airlocking and provides continuous operation without shutdown or operator invervention. The hydraulic design removes air from the impeller while the pump is running, allowing operators to keep processes moving and improve efficiency. The GIW HVF can be retrofit into many existing froth applications. The pump’s de-aeration system includes a vented impeller and airlock venting. This helps to eliminate sump overflow due to pump airlock; reduce downtime; and allow water use to be restricted to the bare minimum. Fewer pumps are required for less capital expense, requiring less water and power usage. GIW’s HVF pump has been fully tested on froth and viscous liquids. Designed for air-entrained slurries, the pump can be used in phosphate mining, hard rock mining and oil sands. • KSB Australia Brett Lewis 0408 202 585 www.ksb.com.au

Pump innovation WATSON-MARLOW Bredel (WMB) highlighted the latest advances in peristaltic pump technology during AIMEX – AsiaPacific’s International Mining Exhibition 2011. The company used AIMEX to launch its cased drive pumps with Profibus control to the Australian mining industry, along with showing its re-engineered Bredel duplex pumps. Tough cased-drive pumps. Watson-Marlow says the fieldbus system addition to its toughest cased-drive pumps allows in real-time communication between minesite operations personnel and the pump, as well as flocculent and reagent dosing and slurry sampling applications. • Watson-Marlow Bredel 1300 962 787 enquiries@wmbpumps.com.au www.wmbpumps.com.au AustralianMining

January 2012

AM.JAN12.PG026.pdf

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11:06

MOTORS & DRIVES/POWER GENERATION & ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

Roller bearings

Washdown gearboxes

COOPER Bearings will feature the latest developments in its fully split-to-the-shaft roller bearings and double-row tapered roller bearings during the 2011 Mining and Engineering WA exhibition. The Cooper Split Roller Bearing saved huge amounts of time and money by reducing downtime and increasing productivity, the company’s WA representative, Stuart Goates, said. “The split feature means inspection, maintenance and replacement is cut to a minimum while the superior sealing promotes longer bearing life. “As a result, business profitability is increased,” he said. Sharing the spotlight at M&E WA will be Cooper’s double-row tapered roller bearings which, Goates said, were “born to make high thrust loads no longer a problem”. New, Split to the shaft. compact 100 Series bearings for higher-speed applications and a heavy duty bearing, which is compatible with Cooper’s pedestal 08SDC Series, will also be on show. Mining industry applications for Cooper bearings include material handling, crushing and milling, ventilation and air movement, hauling and winding, stockpile and surge pile management, screening, sizing and washing. “In the mining industry, the Cooper brand is synonymous with proven cost savings and extended bearing life,” Goates said. • Cooper Bearings 08 9397 9990 www.cooperbearings.com

NORD Drivesystems has previewed a new line of two-stage helical bevel gear units with torques between 90 and 660 Nm at the Hannover exhibition this year. The units are able in five different sizes with torques between 90 and 660 Nm. All units feature a high-strength die-cast aluminum gearcase. Since the Suited for use in conveyors. gearcase requires neither an inspection cover nor a screw-on input cover, NORD says the units are especially small and lightweight. This facilitates handling, and helps reduce energy consumption particularly in applications where drives are moved, the company says. • NORD Drivesystems (Aust) 03 9394 0500 au-sales@nord.com www.nord.com

Turbo diesels CUMMINS Inc has launched the High Output 6.7L Turbo Diesel for Ram Heavy duty trucks. This new high output rating produces more torque, up to a peak of 1085Nm. With this level of torque at 1600 rpm, power is increased across a wide speed range of 1200 to 2700 rpm. This delivers up to 46 additional hp at typical cruising speeds while maintaining 350 hp at 3000 rpm. The Turbo Diesel base engine is the Cummins ISB. Cummins will begin production of the 6.7L turbo diesel in the second quarter of this year. • Cummins www.cummins.com

Next gen generators CATERPILLAR has unveiled its next generation of Olympian diesel generator sets. The new generator sets are rated 26 to 200kVA (at 50Hz) and 27 to 175kW (at 60Hz). Improvements on the sets include more robust construction, increase accessibility and greater performance in hotter climates. A major focus of their redesign was the enclosure, which is built from 3dBA quieter than previous models. galvanized steel with powder coated paint. It is designed to withstand harsh environments, be more rust resistant and less prone to weathering. To prevent water ingress, it features a single piece roof and rain caps fitted with compression seals. The new enclosure is up to 3 dBA quieter than previous models, as a result of the incorporation of sound absorbent materials and modifications to the airflow and exhaust systems. To allow for easier installation, the configurations were standardized, with less variation between models when it comes to access panels and option connection points. • Caterpillar www.cat.com

Mobile and fixed generators Specialists in: I AC/DC Motor & Generator Rewinds (High & Low Voltage) I Submersible Pumps I Transformers I Electromagnets

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26 January 2012

AustralianMining

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REDSTAR Equipment will show new additions to its range of generators, welders, compressors, lighting towers and fuel tanks during the 2011 Mining and Engineering WA exhibition. Redstar offers complete lines of industrial stand-by, mobile and prime fixed generators ranging from 6KVA to more than 3250KVA, and is the exclusive Denyo supplier for Australia. The company also offers full lines of industrial diesel welders, industrial and mobile compressors, lighting towers and fuel tanks, with fuel efficient options available across its entire range of products. The equipment is targeted at specialised industrial users Australia-wide. Redstar focuses on providing informed choices and sharing technical knowledge to assist purchasers with acquisitions that best meet their needs. Redstar also offers complete service solutions including fabrication, equipment customisation and specialist components, plus support ranging from scheduled service and maintenance to engine replacement. • Redstar Equipment 1800 733 782 info@redstarequipment.com.au www.redstarequipment.com.au

Will provide power for Rio’s Hope Downs-4 mine.

Remote site power ABB to supply $30 million power station to Rio Tinto’s Hope Downs iron ore mine. The project includes the design, supply, installation and commissioning of a new 220/33 kV substation to provide power to the new remote Hope Downs-4 mine in the Pilbara. It includes civil and electrical works as well as power transformers, instrumentation transformers, disconnectors and high- and medium-voltage air-insulated switchgear. Substation automation systems compliant with the IEC 61850 standard and come equipped with the latest protection and control products. The substation will also feature 11kV reactors and capacitor banks which reduce electric loss and improve network stability. The mine’s existing 220kV substation was also constructed by ABB and has supplied power to the Hope Downs-1 mine for more than five years. • ABB Australia www.abbaustralia.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

AM.JAN12.PG027.pdf

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DRILL, BLAST & GEOMECHANICS

Explosion proof pressure transmitters

Drill safety tooling

AMERICAN Sensor Technologies (AST) has enhanced its explosion proof pressure transmitters for deeper drilling. Ideal for deep hole drilling, AST says. The extended pressure now ranges from 0-2.5 PSI up to 20,000PSI. Because of its use of very thick diaphragms and silicon strain gauges, AST produces high pressure, high cycle pressure transmitters with repeatable results. These are ideal for use in deep well drilling. The addition of a vented gauge reference allows for low pressure ranges. Optional F250C female process ports are also available for robust high-pressure process connections. Built with Class 1, Div 1, groups A, B, C, D approvals for the AST46HA make the transmitter suitable for use in acetylene and hydrogen environments, while sealed gauge versions are approved for Class 2, Div 1 Groups A,B,C,D for mining applications and installations. A failure mode indicator option of the AST64H allows a user to choose an output signal that rails or drops during a fault condition. Conditions such as electrical overload or extreme pressure transients cause pressure transmitters to fail, in events such as these, the operator can now control how their systems react to failures. Waspalloy, a new wetted material option, is also available for both pressure transmitters in addition to Inconel 718, 17-4 PH & 316 L SS. Waspalloy is a cobaltbased alloy material offering excellent corrosion resistance to H2 & H2S. This combination of gases produces a corrosive by-product that causes lesser pressure sensor technologies to embrittle and fail during the refining process of oil and gas. Using Waspalloy gives the explosion proof pressure transmitters better resistance in petroleum applications. Both explosion-proof pressure sensors series are available with the CSA explosion-proof and Single Seal markings. â&#x20AC;˘ American Sensor Technologies info@astsensors.com www.astsensors.com

BOART Longyear has developed two new tools to prevent hand injuries â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Rod Lifter and the Split Tube Loader. The Rod Lifter is a handheld and lightweight tool that allows for proper lifting techniques by keeping the wrist and hand in a neutral position to eliminate strain and protect the fingers from pinch points and sharp surfaces. It also prevents thread damage and eliminates pipe slippage through the use of a specially designed carbide rod grip. Split tubes and outer casings can become very sharp and often contain metal burrs, and drillers can often suffer hand lacerations and other injuries, even when wearing proper gloves. The Split Tube Loader is designed to prevent hand contact with these sharp, jagged edges. They are designed to fit multiple split tube diameters, and fit comfortably in the hand and keeps fingers away from dangerous contact points. â&#x20AC;˘ Boart Longyear www.boartlongyear.com

Drill motors SAI has unveiled a new range of motors and drive units that can offer greater accuracy and efficiency when used in drilling machines. The company says the higher power and displacement density make these drives unachievable by any other solution on the market. The core element is the SAI motor with its well known method of operation based on an eccentric crankshaft and swivelling cylinders, which has been the subject of further development by the introduction of the innovative variable eccentricity crankshaft. The crankshaft can now be produced to provide a variation of its eccentricity, in a continuous way, from maximum to zero. The displacement of the motor can also vary, adapting the torque and speed output of the drive to the operational requirements of the machines. This shift can be achieved extremely quickly or very slowly depending on the needs of the application. The shape of the ramp and the response of this variation can be adjusted electronically and mechanically, and fine tuning can be easily achieved directly on the machine during the initial running and validation of the application. The long-established high volumetric efficiency of SAI motors allows accurate controllability of rotational speed even at times of vastly varying load/pressure. The high starting efficiency offered in every displacement within the range permits the overcoming of obstacles found during the drilling operation whether these be at start up or during low speed running. â&#x20AC;˘ Custom Fluidpower 07 3307 8227 www.customfluidpower.com.au

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QLD (ROCKAMPTON) PHONE: (+61 7) 4936 2908 EMAIL:salesrc@qmw.com.au

WESTERN AUSTRALIA PHONE: (+61 8) 9358 3511 EMAIL: saleswa@qmw.com.au

www.qmw.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

AustralianMining

January 2012

AM.JAN12.PG028.pdf

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MINING JOBS To advertise a new job contact Hussein Azzan at 02 9422 2851

To see the latest jobs available visit www.miningaustralia.com.au, which is updated daily. SENIOR EXPLORATION GEOLOGIST Location – WA Company – Hancock Prospecting Ply Ltd Description: For over 60 years Hancock Prospecting has been engaged in the exploration and development of mineral resources in Western Australia. We hold numerous Iron Ore leases in Central Pilbara which cover over 500 square km. As a result of planed and calculated growth we are looking to appoint a Senior Geologist on a full time basis. The main purpose of this role is to lead and mentor our team in order to plan and implement Iron Ore exploration programmes on company’s regional tenements. This is great opportunity to join a company that is expanding with good management and healthy funding stream. You will also play a key role is staff development and mentoring. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs EXPLORATION PROJECT GEOLOGIST LOCATION – WA COMPANY – HANCOCK PROSPECTING Description: For over 60 years Hancock Prospecting has been engaged in the exploration and development of mineral resources in Western Australia. We hold numerous Iron Ore leases in Central Pilbara which cover over 500 square km. As a result of planed and calculated growth we are looking to appoint a Project Geologist on a full time basis. Reporting to the Chief Geologist/Project Exploration Manager, the Project Geologist Regional Exploration is responsible for planning and implementing exploration programmes on HPPL's regional tenements. This is a great opportunity to join an exploration company that has ambitions and that will go places. We have very experienced managers and Geologists in who are great mentors. We will also provide a competitive salary along with opportunity to learn and develop. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs MINE PLANNER - LONG TERM LOCATION – SYDNEY Company – Roy Hill Description: Together with its partners, the Hancock group of companies is creating Roy Hill Iron Ore (RHIO), a multibillion dollar iron ore mine in Westerns Australia's Pilbara region. The Mine, located in the Chichester Ranges approximately 277kms south of Port Hedland has 2.4 billion tonnes of iron ore resource. The Project includes state of the art mining techniques as well as construction of heavy haul railway and port facilities. Construction is due to commence mid-2011 with first ore planned in early 2014. The Long Term Planner will be responsible for producing long term mine plans from which decisions on strategy and major capital expansion will be based. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs LEAD PLANNER LOCATION – WA Company – Roy Hill Description: Together with its partners, the Hancock group of companies is creating Roy Hill Iron Ore (RHIO), a multibillion dollar iron ore mine in Westerns Australia's Pilbara region. The Mine, located in the

Chichester Ranges approximately 277kms south of Port Hedland has 2.4 billion tonnes of iron ore resource. The Project includes state of the art mining techniques as well as construction of heavy haul railway and port facilities. Construction is due to commence mid-2011 with first ore planned in early 2014.We currently have a position available for a Lead Planner with significant project planning experience. The Roy Hill ‘owner’s team’ incorporates our Project Management Contractor (PMC), and it will be your responsibility to liaise with both operation and project groups, building business plans and schedules. In order to be considered suitable for this role you must be able to demonstrate over 8 years experience in planning, ideally within an EPCM or construction environment. You will have an extremely high level of attention to detail, and the ability to work with multiple stake holders on aggressive timeframes. You will need to be advanced in Microsoft Project and Excel, possess excellent communication and time management skills and be dedicated to maintaining the project schedule. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs contact Julian Moran on 08 6143 1616. GEOLOGY SUPERINTENDENT - ORE DEFINITION LOCATION – WA Company – Roy Hill Description: Together with its partners, the Hancock group of companies is creating Roy Hill Iron Ore (RHIO), a multibillion dollar iron ore mine in Westerns Australia's Pilbara region. The Mine, located in the Chichester Ranges approximately 277kms south of Port Hedland has 2.4 billion tonnes of iron ore resource. The Project includes state of the art mining techniques as well as construction of heavy haul railway and port facilities. Construction is due to commence mid-2011 with first ore planned in early 2014. Provide leadership to the ore definition team in the function of collecting accurate and consistent geological and metallurgical data. Ensure the data is promptly validated and then made available to other parts of the business, including the modelling and mine planning groups. This is a great opportunity to be part of a greenfield project where things will be done right and they will be done right from the start. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs MINING CONSULTANT LOCATION – SYDNEY OR BRISBANE Company – Xenith Consulting Description: Xenith Consulting is a mining consultancy with an established reputation in providing mine planning solutions. We are currently expanding our operations into NSW with the opening of an office in the Sydney CBD. We are seeking a Mining Consultant to work in either our existing Brisbane office or the newly formed Sydney office. All minerals Industry professionals are encouraged to send an expression of interest to join us. Xenith is a dynamic team of mining specialists delivering services to a diverse range of clients including mining companies, financial and legal institutions. As a Mining Consultant at Xenith you will be provided with excellent development opportunities and will be given the opportunity to work within a great team environment. You will have worked in open cut operations and/or underground mining operations. You will have an aptitude for problem solving and effective decision making. Proven

experience in demonstrating initiative and working constructively within team based environments is an advantage. This is a fantastic opportunity for mine planners to diversify their experience into other areas including Business Analysis. Our operations are growing and this is your chance to become involved in significant mine planning roles. Key requirements for the role include tertiary qualifications in an engineering related discipline, preferably mining as well as experience with Minescape, Minex, Vulcan, XPAC or XERAS planning tools. Xenith provides a stimulating, enjoyable and rewarding work environment that recognises your unique skills and rewards your contributions. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs or contact Grant on 07 3835 3900 or email recruitment@xenith.com.au SENIOR MINING CONSULTANT (SYDNEY OR BRISBANE) LOCATION – SYDNEY OR BRISBANE Company – Xenith Consulting Description: Xenith Consulting is a mining consultancy with an established reputation in providing mine planning solutions. We are currently expanding our operations into NSW with the opening of an office in the Sydney CBD. We are seeking a Senior Mining Consultant to work in either our existing Brisbane office or the newly formed Sydney office. All minerals Industry professionals are encouraged to send an expression of interest to join us. Xenith is a dynamic team of mining specialists delivering services to a diverse range of clients including mining companies, financial and legal institutions. You will be an integral part of a multi-disciplinary team working with well-known leaders in the mining industry. You will have strong skills in mining software packages, Resource/Reserve estimation techniques, and have an aptitude to mentor, train and share your experiences. Xenith provides a stimulating, enjoyable and rewarding work environment that recognises your unique skills and rewards your contributions. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs or contact Grant on 07 3835 3900 or email recruitment@xenith.com.au SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISOR LOCATION – MMG COMPANY – WA Description: With all the growth and development happening at Golden Grove this year, this role is ideal for a Senior Enviro Advisor looking to broaden their experience base! MMG comes with a long and proud history of providing metals and minerals of all kinds to customers around the world. The Group owns and operates a portfolio of world-class base metal mining operations, development projects and exploration fields, and is a substantial producer of zinc as well as copper, lead, gold and silver. The group currently has mining operations located in Australia and Asia and a large portfolio of advanced and early stage exploration projects throughout Australia, Asia and North America. The Golden Grove underground base and precious metals mine in Western Australia produces concentrates of zinc, copper and other base and precious metals. This is an exciting time for Golden Grove as we have recently recommenced exploration, and are re-opening an underground mine which has been under care & maintenance. We are also creating an open-pit mine mid-to-late 2011. With all this growth we now need an experienced Senior Environmental Advisor to join our busy Environment and Community Relations Department. Reporting to the Environment & Community Relations Manager, you will help us to achieve our environmental objectives through the implementation of effective management systems and projects. As a senior member of the department you will also be required to manage the team in the absence of the Environmental & Community Relations Manager. As an experienced and passionate environmental practitioner you will have a sound knowledge of relevant legislation, government approval processes, and environmental management systems as they pertain to the mining industry. You'll be experienced with environmental monitoring and project management, have strong report writing skills and be able to manage your time effectively. You also hold a relevant tertiary qualification and current drivers licence. With all the growth and development happening at Golden Grove this year, this role is ideal for someone looking for a challenging role that will broaden your experience base. This permanent position will commute on an 8 days on/6 days off roster flying in and out from either Perth or Geraldton. Accommodation and meals are provided in a comfortable modern camp with swimming pool, fully equipped gym, Foxtel, beach volleyball, outdoor cricket pitch and tennis courts. The successful candidate will be offered a remuneration package commensurate with their experience and the current market. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs PROJECT MANAGER - PRESTRIP Location – Perth Company – One Key Resources One Key Resources provides specialist labour hire, recruitment and training solutions to clients in open cut mining, infrastructure and resources industries. Our client has a 5 year pre-strip project in the Bowen Basin and requires the services of an experienced project manager. In return our client offers an excellent package including a negotiable salary, company vehicle, flights negotiable depending on location and other allowances. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs or email careers@onekeyresources.com.au SENIOR GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER Location – WA Company – MMG MMG comes with a long and proud history of providing metals and minerals of all kinds to customers around the world. The Group owns and operates a portfolio of world-class base metal mining operations, development projects and exploration fields, and is a substantial producer of zinc as well as copper, lead, gold and silver. The group currently has mining operations located in Australia and Asia and a large portfolio of advanced and early stage exploration projects throughout Australia, Asia and North America. The Golden Grove underground base and precious metals mine in Western Australia produces concentrates of zinc, copper and other base and precious metals. This is an exciting time for Golden Grove - in addition to our existing mine, Gossan Hill, we have recently reopened a mine which has been on care & maintenance (Scuddles), and we will be

28 January 2012

AustralianMining

developing an open-pit mine mid-to-late 2011. With all this growth we now need an experienced Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join our Mining Department. Reporting to the Technical Services Superintendent, you will ensure the correct and professional application of geotechnical principles to the planning and operation of all underground and surface mines at Golden Grove. As an appropriately qualified and experienced Senior Geotechnical Engineer within an underground and/or open pit mining environment, you will possess the following skills and attributes: This permanent position will commute on an 8 days on/6 days off roster flying in and out from either Perth or Geraldton. Accommodation and meals are provided in a comfortable modern camp with swimming pool, fully equipped gym, Foxtel, beach volleyball, outdoor cricket pitch and tennis courts. The successful candidate will be offered a remuneration package commensurate with their experience and the current market. Relocation assistance is also available. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Location – QLD Company – One Key Resources One Key Resources provides specialist labour hire, recruitment and training solutions to clients in open cut mining, infrastructure and resources industries. Our client has a 5 year pre-strip project in the Bowen Basin and requires the services of an experienced crew supervisor. In return our client offers an excellent package including a negotiable salary, use of a company vehicle, and other allowances. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs or careers@onekeyresources.com.au MINE TRAINING COORDINATOR Location – Strathalbyn, SA Company – Terramin Australia Limited Terramin Australia Limited is a based metal production company with an owner-operated underground mine located 2kms from the town of Strathalbyn, just 60km from Adelaide’s CBD. The Angas Zinc Mine commenced production in July 2008. The initial Probable Reserves of 2.15 million tonnes at 10.5% Pb+Zn were sufficient for a seven year operation. Drilling results from the near mine area show strong indications of further shoots that would extend mine life. The mine is located in an historical mining belt where the Company holds over 1000km2 of tenements with encouraging exploration results, offering further potential for deposits that could be processed at Angas or developed into new mines. This Mine Training Coordinator is a newly created position to support training for the Underground Mining Department based at the Angas Zinc Mine. This position reports directly to the Mine General Foreman will be rostered Monday to Friday. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop their career by participating in a Nationally Recognised Qualification Program fully funded by the company. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs or email employment@terramin.com.au SENIOR MINE GEOLOGIST (UNDERGROUND) Location – Perth Company – Independence Group NL Independence Group NL is a Perth based Mining and Exploration Company whose operations and projects include: We are seeking expressions of interest from experienced SENIOR MINE GEOLOGISTS seeking new challenges to join the professional mine geology team in our growing organisation. Reporting to the Geology Manager and acting as his alternate, the successful candidate will be based at our Jaguar Project and will be actively involved in an interesting and broad range of responsibilities including: Jaguar Camp has a well equipped Gym, Pool, multi-purpose court, wet mess, with lawns around most of the camp. This role is FIFO ex Perth and offers an excellent remuneration package. Candidates who are based in Australian cities (other than Perth) are also encouraged to lodge an expression of interest for this key senior role in our dynamic organisation. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs or email recruitment@igo.com.au SALES AREA MANAGERS - MELBOURNE & SYDNEY Location – WA Company – Vermeer Description: Make your mark with an innovative org'n in either Melb or Syd! Enjoy ongoing training, job security & career advancement! Untapped industry! Since its inception, Vermeer has grown from a one person Iowa operation to an international organisation which manufactures, distributes and services construction, environmental and industrial equipment. Now with over 100 dealerships worldwide, 2000+ manufacturing personnel and a reputation as world leaders, Vermeer continues to grow from strength to strength. They have recently filled their largest single order to date of 20 HG36Se horizontal grinders, used for converting green waste to fuel for power generation for Wuhan Kaidi Electric Power. Due to continued growth, Vermeer has exciting opportunities for enthusiastic Area Sales Managers to join their branches in Melbourne and Sydney. In these challenging, hands-on positions, the successful applicant will be responsible for sales of the world's best compact skid loader. This range will be extended to include Walk Behind Trenchers and small Vacuum Excavators. This is a fantastic opportunity to build the (branch)'s market share and really make your mark within a relatively untapped industry with Vermeer's Compact Equipment range. In return for your hard work and dedication, you will enjoy an attractive remuneration consisting of a competitive base salary and generous sales commission, with top earners having the potential to earn $100k plus! Vermeer is a successful, established and growing organisation looking to employ someone who is seeking a long-term position with job security. An individual who is attracted to the idea of working autonomously and "owning" their role would be perfect in this progressive company, and the ongoing training provided is evidence of the career advancement opportunities this worldwide leader can offer! To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au/jobs

www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMTREJAN_12.pdf Tread-AustralianAd.pdf

11/29/11

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3:42:35 PM

The worldwide leader for providing solutions to the Explosives Handling Equipment Industry since 1957. The TREAD Australia Advantage –

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AM.JAN12.PG030.pdf

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EVENTS

Conferences, seminars & workshops Event submissions can be emailed to ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au • Diversified Exhibitions Australia 03 9261 4500 aog@divexhibitions.com.au www.aogexpo.com.au

Resources Estimation Course 16-20 January Perth This 5-day Resource Estimation course gives you a clear understanding of the resource estimation process from interpretation through to classification. Each attendee will receive a comprehensive Resource Estimation reference manual and a FREE 3 month Supervisor software license. You will learn how to create a robust Resource Estimate using industry standard techniques; how to combine geology and geostatistics to build a more realistic resource; and learn the legalities and practical guidelines for resource classification. The course covers the entire resource estimation process including an overview of the resource estimation process; the fundamentals of resource estimation; the importance of geology and domaining; data validation and analysis; variography; methods of estimation, including inverse distance and ordinary kriging; model validation techniques; practical resource classification; and an introduction to advanced estimation techniques. This course has been designed for geologists and mining engineers involved with or about to become involved with resource estimation. The course assumes a basic geological knowledge but does not assume any geostatistical knowledge. • Snowden Diana Titren 08 9211 8670 training@snowdengorup.com www.snowdengroup.com

continuous automatic lubrication • less downtime • better productivity • reduced operating costs

Queensland Mining Exhibition (QME) 24-26 July 2012 Mackay Showgrounds, QLD This show allows specifiers and industry professionals to come together to catch up on products and technology, industry trends and to network with mining industry colleagues. QME features free entry to all people in the mining, engineering and construction industries. • QME 02 9422 2955 qme@reedexhibitions.com.au www.queenslandmining expo.com.au

Mining and Engineering NSW (M&E NSW) Mining & Sampling Theory for Mine Technicians and Exploration Field Assistants 30 January Perth This one day course explains the mine value chain from exploration through to production – what goes into making a mine. It reviews exploration, resource definition and grade control sampling methods & splitting techniques. This course has been specifically designed for mine technicians and exploration filed assistants to. This course will teach you about the practical aspects of sampling errors and how to minimise them, discovery methods, open pit mining methods and terminology, underground mining methods and terminology, exploration and resource sampling methods (rock chip, channels, RAB, LAG), sampling blasthole cones and ore control. • Snowden Diana Titren 08 9211 8670 training@snowdengroup.com www.snowdengroup.com

GIS In Mining and Exploration Online Summit greasemax.com.au 30 January 2012

AustralianMining

23 January - 6 February 2012

Online At Mining IQ’s GIS in Mining & Exploration Online Summit, you will have the opportunity to hear successful examples of companies that have implemented GIS and utilised GIS to their advantage. You will also get to hear about the future of the industry and the role GIS will play going forwards, both in terms of exploration and mining. This is an event for the explorer, the geologist, and for practitioners who want to gain further knowledge into the technical aspects, solutions and technologies of the mining geospatial world. Furthermore, this is a gathering of not just managers, but minds, who strive for change and forward-thinking approaches to the application of GIS. • IQPC www.gisinmining-online.com

2ND Annual Rare Earths & Strategic Metals Conference 21-22 February Sydney Mining IQ will be holding the second annual Rare Earths & Strategic Metals Conference in Sydney. The event will give you the opportunity to discuss your own rare earth concerns in an intimate forum, giving you access to valuable networking opportunities. Our conference will give you the

opportunity to focus on the many challenges associated in setting up a rare earth project; examine the processing of rare earths and how successful metallurgical extraction can determine the commercial viability of your project; and examine the presence of thorium and uranium and how this can be managed to minimise environmental impact. • IQPC 02 9229 1000 enquire@iqpc.com www.rareearths andstrategicmetals.com

28-30 August 2012 Newcastle, NSW M&E NSW has become a “must attend” event for all buyers and industry professionals, with over 230* exhibitors in 2009. Keep abreast of the latest products and technology as well as network with industry colleagues in a vibrant business environment. • M&E NSW Peter Thompson 02 9422 2472 Peter.thompson@reedexhibitions. com.au www.miningand engineeringnsw.com.au

2012 Australian Oil & Gas Exhibition

Goldfields Mining Exhibition (GME)

22-24 February Perth Convention Centre

30 October - 1 November 2012 Kalgoorlie-Boulder, WA

Bringing together more than 450 exhibitors from across 16 countries, the Australasian Oil & Gas Exhibition & Conference (AOG) has grown to become Australia’s largest oil and gas event and the only exhibition of its kind to attract over 11,000 visitors. AOG 2012 is poised to again shatter exhibitor and visitor attendance records, showcasing the very latest products, projects and technology in subsea, asset management, flow control, safety and engineering from the world’s leading oil and gas operators, contractors and supply companies.

GME provides local and international suppliers with a unique opportunity to conduct business face to face with key buyers and decision makers in Western Australia. Staged by Reed Exhibitions, GME provides a valuable opportunity to network and exchange ideas and information with industry colleagues in an interactive business environment. • GME Chris Ghosh 02 9422 2955 chris.ghosh@reed exhibitions.com.au www.goldfieldsminingexpo.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMPIRFEB_11.pdf

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Servicing the Mining Industry for 30 years All Products and Services exceed MDG41 requirements Mining dedicated Service and Supply Centres with pressure testing facilities Specialists in Open Cut and Underground applications for all soft and hard rock mining All Service and Supply Centres ISO9001:2008 accredited RTO Registered by VETAB Project Management for machine overhauls and hose refurbishment NATA certified hose testing facility Experience across all OEM mining equipment manufacturers National fleet of mining specific mobile service units

UNM13793_AusMiningS.pdf

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If what you do depends on Lime, talk to us.

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UNM13793