Australian Mining March 2013 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 Associate Publisher – Martin Sinclair Email: martin.sinclair@reedbusiness.com.au Editor – Cole Latimer Tel: (02) 9422 2352 Email: ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au Journalists – Vicky Validakis Tel: (02) 9422 2964 Email: vicky.validakis@reedbusiness.com.au Brent Balinski Tel: (02) 9422 2408 Email: brent.balinski@reedbusiness.com.au Alex Heber Tel: (02) 9422 2884 Email: alexandra.heber@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 WA Representative – Jamie Wade Mob: 0435 945 868 Email: jamie@wadebusiness.com.au RBI Manufacturing & Electronics Group: Production Co-ordinator – Tracy Engle Tel: (02) 9422 2707 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

Turning back the tide More CEO heads have rolled as miners look to reign in out of control costs.

s the last CEO of a major miner falls and a new wave of cost cutting takes hold across the industry, it’s interesting to note that this hasn’t extend ed to outgoing CEOs golden handshakes. Moves like these make it hard to take these large min ing houses claims to be on a cost reduction seriously. The decision to cut con tractors at its joint venture BMA Saraji coal mine and signal the divestment of the Gregory Crinum coal com plex due to cost reduction plans, while at the same time giving your outgoing CEO a $75 million golden parachute does not exactly align with one another. It’s little won der that so many workers are outraged. Despite their claims a lot of the new CEOs

Comment Cole Latimer ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au seem to keep spending mon ey and following in the vein of the previous heads; and it will hurt their companies, workers, and shareholders. The actions of the former CEOs should act as a warn ing of what not to do in this current constricted climate. True, some are restrain ing spending, but new mines are still going ahead, and this is a huge cost that is also leading to surplus stock on the market; cutting into pro fits even more. Glencore’s CEO Ivan Glasenberg hit the nail on the

head recently when he criti cised many of the former min ing heads spendthrift ways. “The big guys really screw up” he said in no uncertain terms. “We’ve always been wanting to keep building and keep putting the cash which we generate into new assets. That’s what we’ve got to stop doing as a mining industry. We’ve got to learn about de mand and supply,” he told a BMO Capital Markets con ference last month. “CEOs of all the mining companies have lost their

jobs; wow we have a new generation of CEOs. “I hope CEOs have learnt their lesson. They built, they didn’t get the returns for their shareholders. It’s time to stop building.” It’s time for miners to be come more efficient and better use their resources at hand. The age of the golden handshake and runaway costs, short though it may have been, is over and un less mining companies reign in their spending they simply cannot remain cost effective – they will simply bleed out financially. Let’s hope that this new breed of CEOs, leaders known for not only their ability to head a company but also their people skills, are able to turn the tide and help these com panies grow again.

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A D Average _ A MNet K Distribution I N MA R _ 1 3 . p d f Period ending September 2012 8,019

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ON the front cover of the March 2013 edition of Australian Mining we’ve featured a snapshot of Fortescue’s firetail project in the Pilbara. In this issue we focus on the ongoing issues in the Pilbara, such as FIFO and the environment. We investigate the changing weather in the region and how this will affect mining operations in the years to come. We also preview what’s on show at Bauma in Munich this year, as well as the latest in drilling technology such as water powered drills, compact roof bolters, ‘intelligent drills, and deep drilling rescue rigs.

AustralianMining

March 2013

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Contents

March 2013 issue

Extreme weather and the Pilbara

What’s on show at Bauma

What may the next 50 years bring?….p12

A preview of the vehicles to be released….p26

Features PILBARA SPOTLIGHT

The Fly In Fly Out debate How is FIFO affecting the Pilbara ..................................................p14-16 Cutting it fine Measuring moisture in iron ore fines ...................................................p18

DRILL & BLAST

Multipurpose drilling rigs A single drill for many applications .....................................................p20 An intelligent option Improved drilling fleets .......................................................................p21 Not just hot air Water powered drill rigs......................................................................p22 Compact roof bolting Safety in smaller areas .........................................................................p23 Deep drill rescue rig Deeper drilling ....................................................................................p24

VEHICLES

Electric LHDs Less energy use underground...............................................................p28

AUTOMATION & REMOTE CONTROL

Converting manufacturing Utilising the wealth of manufacturing R&D........................................p30 Smart software solutions Overcoming complex automation design challenges.......................p32-33

SAFETY

A mother on a mining mission Mining accidents impact upon the whole community.....................p34-35 4

March 2013

AustralianMining

MATERIALS HANDLING

Stable solutions Rough terrain handlers........................................................................p36 Cutting carbon Reducing the impact of haul truck emissions..................................p38-39 Slim line pallets Increasing working space ....................................................................p40

HUNTER VALLEY

Salt in the wound The Hunter River mining battle .....................................................p42-43

MAINTENANCE & MONITORING

Retreading the maintenance path Proper tyre maintenance......................................................................p44 Pressing precision Oversized equipment maintenance…...................................................p46 Remote access alleviates downtimes Offsite maintenance ............................................................................p47

Regulars INDUSTRY COMMENT ..................................................................... p6 NEWS .................................................................................................. p8 MINING FAMILY MATTERS ...........................................................p10 PRODUCT FOCUS: PPVC ...........................................................p48-50 PROSPECT AWARDS .....................................................................p52 PRODUCT SHOWCASE .............................................................p56-59 JOBS ..................................................................................................p60 EVENTS .............................................................................................p62 www.miningaustralia.com.au

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INDUSTRY COMMENT

SHAKE UP in the Bowen The Dirt discusses impact of BHP’s cost reduction and FIFO decisions in the Bowen Basin.

HP’s decision to use a 100 per cent FIFO workforce instead of hiring from inside the local Central Queensland community, has enraged locals, the unions as well as the wider mining community at large. With two coal mines in Bowen Basin about to start production, it was widely hoped that BHP would source the 1000 employees needed for the project from the surrounding areas of Moranbah, Dysart, Mackay and Rockhampton. Instead, workers will be flown in from Brisbane and Cairns, a move which means local members of the community have missed out on crucial jobs. In what comes as a slap in the face for Bowen Basin locals, the miner set aside 250 vacancies exclusively for tradespeople from the Cairns region while 14,000 Brisbane-based tradies have already applied for the remaining 750 jobs. The recruitment drive made by BHP in both cities called for qualified local tradespeople with or without mining experience. In return BMA promised an “attractive” seven-on seven-off roster at the Daunia or Caval Ridge mines, access to latest technology and equipment, career development, and accommodation in a modern village while away at work. The CFMEU have slammed the A D _ A ME F I MA R _ 1 3 . p d miners’ decision.

BHP’s decision to source it workforce from outside the community has drawn anger.

Miners’ Union national secre- Moranbah – how stupid is that?” he tary Andrew Vickers said Bowen said. Basin locals were furious at BHP for “I’m sure somebody buys a hamshutting them out the recruitment burger now and then but the vast process. majority of wages are spent else“Giving preference to transient where.” workers does nothing for nearby Isaac Mayor Anne Baker says communities, many of which have the people of Moranbah are frusensured significant job cuts in recent trated and that the influx of people months, particularly at BHP’s own will put more pressure on already operations,” Vickers said. straining infrastructure. “By relying so heavily on FIFO, “There are certainly critical imBHP is locking out local workers pacts, for example the roads,” she from the benefits and delivering said. more negative aspects of the mining The move by BHP to recruit a boom the Central Queensland com- solely FIFO workforce for the two munities.” projects comes after a parliamenPresident of the Moranbah tary report was released last month Traders Association, Peter Finlay, outlining the damaging impacts the said local residents should have the transient workforce can have on reopportunity to apply for jobs in gional communities. their own community. BHP’s decision shows a total “It’s seven kilometres from the disregard for the report and its calls post office and if you want to work for miners to help support regional f Pa ge 1 7 / 0 2 / 1 3 , 1 1 : 5 1 AM there you can’t have an address in communities.

Meanwhile, Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney announced an up-grade to the airport at Moranban to support the FIFO workforce, a clear sign that the Queensland Government is not onboard with making positive changes either. Some argue that the move is a way for BHP to spread the wealth of the mines to other parts of Queensland. BMA asset president Stephen Dumble said the new jobs will pump about $60 million into the Cairns region. However, others say the decision surrounds BMA’s desire to negate union influence in the mines after clashing heavily with the Queensland arm of the CFMEU is a 2-year long industrial dispute at it’s Gregory Crinum mine. Whatever the reason, it hardly seems fair that locals should miss out to the tune of 100 per cent. The Bowen Basin mine workforce has been through a lot in the last year. BHP closed both their Norwich Park and Gregory coal mine last year, resulting in hundreds of job losses, while Rio Tinto and Xstrata both culled jobs in the region. No one is asking BHP to be a social do-gooder, or clean up other companies messes at the expense of their own bottom dollar. But what people do expect is a fair go.

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March 2013

AustralianMining

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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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 injured in underground accident The RACQ North Queensland rescue helicopter was called to a remote mine site south east of Mount Isa after an underground mine accident. The rescue team arrived on site and stabilised the 28-year-old man who was suffering fractures and head injuries. The helicopter transported the man who was in a stable condition to the Mount Isa Hospital at around 3 pm. Australian Mining has confirmed the accident did not occur on the Osborne mine, and at the time of publication is still awaiting a response from BHP’s Cannington mine and the NQ rescue team.

Australian market and that it is finally stepping into the Australian region as “now is the right time”. APEG general manager Shane Halliewell explained. “Some people say were are coming in at the wrong time, as the boom is slowing down, however APEG will have the sole distribution rights for the vehicles around Australia. The first two trucks to hit the market are the 240 tonne 75315 and 360 tonne 75601 trucks.

operations by BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto, and Fortescue Metals Group, along with a host of other companies, have been disrupted. The Bureau of Meterology said Rusty moved slowly toward Port Hedland, and intensified as it moved closer to the coast. “Rusty is a large tropical cyclone and its slow movement is likely to result in higher than usual rainfall in the Pilbara and western Kimberley,” it said. “Very heavy rainfall is expected in near coastal parts of the eastern Pilbara and western Kimberley.”

New CSG rules for QLD

Mine managers could face jail over site deaths

The WA Government is considering changes to legislation that could see mine managers sent to jail if workers die on site. Major iron ore ports in the Pilbara were closed The review could also link penalties to as tropical cyclone Rusty beared down on company profits, meaning miners like BHP Western Australia’s north-west coast. Billiton or Rio Tinto could face much larger Port Hedland, Cape Lambert, and Dampier fines than smaller resources companies. ports were closed in preparation for the storm, The new laws would apply to mining and oil which brought strong winds and heavy rains. AlmostAhalf of the world’s seaborne iron ore D _ A M L A N M A R _ 1 3 . p d and f gas P companies, a g e 1and could 1 2 /also 0 see 2 / a1 3 , demerit point system introduced. is shipped through the Pilbara, and major

Cyclone closes Pilbara ports

Australian Mining gets the latest news every day, providing mining professionals with the up to the minute information on safety, news and technology for the Australian mining and resources 5 : 5 2 PM industry. A WA Department of Mines and Petroleum review is examining the state’s mining legislation, and is questioning whether managers could be charged with corporate manslaughter following the death of a worker. New laws could also see managers held responsible for environmental breaches or disasters, with enforcement measures including warnings, fines, stop-work orders, licence changes, and prosecutions. Department deputy director-general Michelle Andrews said while most of the state’s operations were secure the industry needed to “remain vigilant” and compare its legislation with rules in other parts of Australia and the world.

BelAZ launches mining dump trucks BelAZ has launched its 240 tonne and 360 tonne mining trucks into Australia. For a company that states one in three mining dump trucks around the world are a BelAZ, the lack of an Australian footprint is more than unusual. However the Belarusian machinery manufacturer has partnered with Australian firm Australasian Pacific Engineering Group (APEG) to bring its mining equipment into Australia. Speaking at the event, general director of BelAZ Petr Parkhomchyk explained that despite operating for more than half a century the company has never had a real footprint in the

March 2013

AustralianMining

The Queensland government has released new rules, outlining how it will manage the coal seam gas industry in the state. The Department of Mines and Natural Resources has unveiled its “Coal Seam Gas Engagement and Compliance Plan 2013”, revealing how the state plans to ensure good practice from the controversial industry. Included in the plan are steps to randomly inspect 250 operating gas wells a year, audit 45% of all CSG drilling, and inspect 80% of seismic activity. Minister Andrew Cripps said well inspection would increase as the number of gas wells increased. The work would be managed by the CSG Compliance Unit. Its executive director Bill Date said the group would work closely with the community, with at least 20 community meetings scheduled for 2013. “This is not an industry that will be established at any cost,” Cripps said. “The Newman Government supports the development of Queensland’s CSG industry, but recognises the balance between the interests of industry, rural landholders, regional communities and our environment. “We will continue to expect high standards and work towards the continuous improvement of Queensland’s CSG industry.” Companies are also expected to make their own inspections and audits.

Forrest to donate half his fortune to charity Mining billionaire and Fortescue Metals Group founder Andrew Forrest has joined a pledge to donate half of his wealth to charity. The pledge makes Forrest the first Australian to join the ‘Giving Pledge’ founded by Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, which has signed up some of the world’s most wealthy entrepreneurs. In their pledge letter Forrest and his wife Nicola said they had been lucky to grow up in Australia, and the pledge had been made with the “love and support” of their children. They also alluded to their Christian faith guiding the decision to donate. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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MINING FAMILY MATTERS

New guide for OIL AND GAS families Mining Family Matters are expanding their reach, and now helping families in the oil and gas sector too.

voiding fights about jealousy and helping the kids to cope with extended separation from a parent: these are among dozens of issues tackled in a guidebook for families in the growing oil and gas sector. The Survival Guide for Families in Oil & Gas is a 32-page, A5 booklet featuring professional advice from a psychologist and practical tips for keeping families strong and healthy despite lengthy periods apart. The guidebook is an initiative of Mining Family Matters, Australia’s awardwinning online community for families in mining and resources. It’s based on the successful Survival Guide for Mining Families, which is nearing A D _ 80,000 A M S PinI sales. MA R _ 1 3 Chapters in The Survival

March 2013

AustralianMining

Guide for Families in Oil & Gas include: • What to expect in the first few months of FIFO (fly-in, fly-out) • Building resilience in your kids • Women in oil and gas • Tackling loneliness when you’re apart • Are you making excuses about sex? “Families in oil and gas come up against many of the same pressures as other FIFO families,” says Mining Family Matters creator Alicia Ranford. “But there are some unique issues, including the added pressure of longer rosters, plus limited communication from offshore rigs and remote sites. “We urge families to focus . on p dthe f positives P a g e of1the1job 9 / –0 like the extended periods to-

gether during time off and the good wages – but we also arm them with simple strategies to cope if the going gets tough. “One oil and gas mum who writes for us on www. miningfm.com.au sends an email to her husband and uploads photos of the kids every day he’s away, even if he doesn’t get the messages for a few days. It’s their way of staying connected, and similar strategies can be easily adopted or adapted.” The Survival Guide for Families in Oil & Gas is targeted at energy companies for distribution to new and existing employees on FIFO and DIDO (drive-in, drive-out) rosters, or living in remote mining communities. Further information is www.miningfm. 2available / 1 3 , at1 0 : 3 9 AM com.au.

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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PILBARA SPOTLIGHT

EXTREME WEATHER

and the Pilbara As more cyclones and dust storms hit the Pilbara, Andrew Duffy asks what the next 50 years may bring.

Image courtesy of Fishwrecked.

he last two months have seen a spate of cyclones and dust storms disrupt resource operations in the Pilbara. But while it’s already a challenging place to do business, most experts say the climate will be even harsher over the next 50 years. Such a climate is poised to throw even more upsets at one of the harshest, yet most profitable parts of Australia. Concerned about the potential for larger disruptions in the future, researchers at the CSIRO asked key decision-makers late last year what they were most worried about in a world of rising extremes. The findings unearthed a raft of potential threats for the Pilbara, but mapped out a plan to keep the industry on track.

The state of play

Almost 90 years ago Marble Bar racked up a world record 160 consecutive days of temperatures over 100°F (37.8°C). The record still stands, and is a testament to the extremes of the Pilbara’s heat, which is still on the rise. But hot weather isn’t the only 12

March 2013

AustralianMining

problem in the Pilbara, with the region’s coastline also one of the most cycloneprone regions of Australia. Not only are cyclones more frequent there than anywhere else in Australia, they are also more severe, with some storms capable of winds over 170km/h. Looking back over the historical records, the CSIRO said Bureau of Meteorology data showed that from 19602010 maximum temperatures in the Pilbara had risen between 0.05 to 0.15°C per decade. Over the same period rainfall has increased in the north and central areas, but decreased in the south-western region. Based on the data at hand climate scientists have projected 2070 temperatures in the region to be around 3°C higher than 1990 levels. And while one projection shows a substantial increase in summer rainfall, the majority of scenarios show a decrease in rain over the winter period.

A sceptic community

While the CSIRO workshop aimed to operate above the politics of climate change, a

broad scepticism regarding the science of the issue still shone through the study. The CSIRO reported a majority of decision-makers involved in its workshop agreed the Pilbara climate would change significantly over the next 50 years. But most also agreed they had no confidence in the climate change projections provided by scientists. In planning for the future the CSIRO’s study made no broad claims about the threat of climate change on a global scale. It instead focused solely on the Pilbara, and swept the politics aside to help industry prepare for a range of different scenarios. The workshop was about ensuring business was not caught off-guard by changes in the climate, and aimed to ensure the Pilbara kept its status as a world class mining region.

The risks involved

Faced with a climate that might be hotter, drier, and more cyclone-prone in the future, the CSIRO asked mining, services, and government figures what the biggest vulnerabilities were.

Under a warmer and drier climate, the rapid growth of the industry was seen as leading to increased competition for water supplies. Under a hotter and wetter scenario, the health and safety of workers was marked as a key concern, with employees likely to face higher risk of heat-related illness, water borne diseases, and storm/cyclone injuries. The industry’s reliance on off-site workers and decision makers was also seen as contributing to its vulnerability. But with climate change making the extremes of the Pilbara more prominent, the transitory nature of the industry was expected to increase. The fact that workers and decision makers were often located outside the region reinforced the importance of communication and community engagement. But improvements to miners themselves were also seen as a key way to cope with changes. Improvements to technology and planning were marked as vital to adapting to harsher conditions, as were upgrades to existing infrastructure, services, and

design standards. Stakeholders also highlighted the need to bring in new talent and skills, as well was increase the knowledge of existing staff.

The bottom line

Whether you’re a climate change advocate or a firm sceptic, historical records show temperatures in the Pilbara have risen since the region’s first developers set up camp. With records showing temperatures on the rise, and projections showing worsening conditions overall, demand for water will become a pressure point, especially as the region’s population grows. The risk of further downtime, along with harsher working environments, will also put pressure on employees and managers alike. But while they’re unsure where the climate is heading, awareness of the need to adapt is starting to filter through most companies. The industry’s largest players already have climate change plans in place, and such policies will likely receive more attention as the Pilbara develops through the coming decades. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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PILBARA SPOTLIGHT

The Fly In Fly Out debate The issues of FIFO and the growth of the Pilbara is heating up after the release of the Government’s FIFO report. Vicky Validakis writes.

new report examining the impacts FIFO has on the community was released last month exposing the downsides of using a transient workforce. The report Cancer Of The Bush Or Salvation Of Our Cities was compiled by The Standing Committee on Regional Australia who spent almost 18 months examining how FIFO and DIDO affected workers, their families and regional communities. The findings of the 209page report were tabled in Parliament last month, making 21 recommendations to government and 14 to industry including better resourcing communities under pressure from large FIFO workforces and removing tax benefits for companies using transient workforces. Independent MP Tony Windsor, who chaired the committee, wrote in the report’s foreword that governments of all levels needed to recognise and act on the issues impacting regional communities who were hosting large FIFO workforces. Windsor said a policy mix was needed to ensure FIFO did not lead to “a hollowing out of established regional towns, particularly those inland. “It recognises that there are some circumstances where FIFO/DIDO is warranted – for construction and very remote operations.” “But for operational positions located near existing regional communities, every effort should be made to make FIFO/DIDO the exception rather than the rule.” In Karratha, Regional Development Australia Pilbara stated that “during the construction phase FIFO clearly has a logic to it” However the operational workforce is often a different matter, especially in places like the Pilbara, with many 14

March 2013

AustralianMining

Remote mining camps over local accommodation has divided communities in the Pilbara.

saying towns are quickly turning into ‘shadow populations’ and that the transient workforce is impacting on the community, local resources and future developments. The report found that an influx of temporary workers is creating housing shortages, driving up prices, and straining public services. “Conditions discourage moves to resource communities such as Karratha, Kalgoorlie or Moranbah and this is not a sustainable practice, either for companies or regional areas,” the report stated.

A shortage of labour, particularly that of a skilled and experienced workforce is a common way many groups use to justify the use of a FIFO workforce. The Chamber of Minerals and Energy Western Australia (CMEWA) argued that “FIFO is a critical element of maintaining a viable resource sector as the industry is challenged by significant tightening of the labour market.” These arguments are often also echoed by the miners themselves. Anglo American Austra-

lia chairman Graham Bradley said FIFO had been “absolutely essential” in Australia due to the skills shortage. “I think it’s also significant that it has helped many tradesmen and people with technical skills who have been laid off in the manufacturing industries to quickly re-enter the workforce without dislocating their families,” Bradley said. The report predicted that planned projects in the Pilbara required an additional 34 000 workers for 2012 in the region.

Increased numbers of workers are flying in to work on mine sites instead of living locally.

However local governments in the region expressed concern that the estimation of FIFO worker numbers in the area were too low with the Pilbara Shire Council (PRC), arguing that transient workforce predictions were understated. According to the PRC, the State planning commission has underestimated FIFO figures by 20 per cent for 2012, 60 per cent by 2015 and up to 90 per cent by 2020. It said that the planning framework for FIFO in the Pilbara was not soundly based because there is no real overall understanding of the number of people being impacted. “The lack of research and data available to local governments is hindering their ability to plan for future impacts on infrastructure and hindering the capacity for state governments and the Commonwealth to adequately fund local governments,” the PRC wrote. The report found that Continued on page 16 www.miningaustralia.com.au

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AM.MAR13.PG016.pdf

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PILBARA SPOTLIGHT

Continued from page 14

while the affects of FIFO to regional communities felt was often impacting negatively, more ‘robust empirical evidence’ was required. “Despite the substantial body of work that has been undertaken for the Pilbara Regional Council it is concerning that the bulk of evidence regarding the economic impact of the FIFO workforce practice is at best anecdotal,” the report stated. However, while the numbers may still need some iron- For very remote operations, such as Fortescue’s, fly in fly out is the only way to work. ing out, what is certain is that the Pilbara community is feel- significantly increased levels of PRC chairwoman, Lynne permanently because they felt ing the burden of FIFO. demand as FIFO workers are Craigie, says the council is that the towns were becomFrom skyrocketing hous- as likely to use their services,” looking for a more hands-on ing “FIFO towns’, the report ing prices, the strain on re- PRC wrote. approach to the report. also found that many felt that sources, to an ‘us vs them’ “Rents continue to soar “What we want is we diversity in the Pilbara was attitude, Pilbara often took past the $2000 per week rate want to see our towns grow, being lost. centre stage in the report as and head towards $3000 per we want to see our populaWhile FIFO is becomlocal groups took the chance week, with average house tion enhanced so it becomes ing the norm, many feel that to express their concerns at prices for a standard 3-bed- a liveable community for resource companies are not how the practice was affect- room unit at more than everyone,” she said. doing enough to help susing their community. $700,000 and climbing up to “Otherwise we are just tain or build communities. “Community services the “magic million” mark. having FIFO workers pick The report then provides such as GPs, emergency “All this seriously threat- the cream out of our com- examples where the WA rooms, ambulances, hospitals, ens the service delivery capac- munities.” Government has been workpharmacies, services A D _ A Mnursing L A N Mservices, A R _ 1 3 ity . pofdthe f community Pa ge 1 1 9 / 0 2 Stories / 1 3 ,emerged 1 1 : of0 people 3 A M ing with local governments dentists, and police confront sector in the Pilbara.” leaving places like Karratha and communities to increase

the supply of land in the Pilbara and Goldfields, however it says more needs to be achieved. CFMEU national president Tony Maher said mining companies should be made to prove there is no reasonable alternative before being allowed to have a FIFO work base:“It’s time the mining companies were held to account for the damage they are inflicting on regional communities, workers and their families,” he said. Maher wants mining companies to invest in communities, housing, and help build relationships in communities. “Often, workers are given no choice to live in a community with their family – FIFO and DIDO are the only options. “Over time we are seeing the fallout from FIFO – diminishing services in regional areas, social discord with large groups of single men camped on the edge of country towns, and the growing failure of mining companies to invest in training for young Australians.”

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March 2013

AustralianMining

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AD_AMELTMAR_13.pdf

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AM.MAR13.PG018.pdf

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PILBARA SPOTLIGHT

Cutting it fine New technology is cutting moisture measurement times in the Pilbara.

he Pilbara is iron ore. The region is a story of massive material movement and bulk handling. In moving iron ore, every hour wasted can cost a company thousands; so even when companies are facing an issue as seemingly simple as wet iron ore fines it seriously harm a miner’s bottom line. If a shipment of iron fines is suspected to be wet, the ship must stay in port until they are dried, or face the potentially dangerous problem of these fines turning into a slurry during transportation – a slurry which has been known to overbalance and roll transport vessel, putting them at risk of capsizing. The best way to avoid this is to monitor and recognise the moisture levels in these fines to begin with. However current methods are either too time consuming or require high level technical knowledge. Speaking to Aidan Harmon and Andrew Game from JW Industrial Instruments, A D _ A M Ethey N E Mtold A R _Australian 1 3 . pd Mining “typically moisture measur-

The moisture analyser is capable of providing instantaneous measurements, giving a reading every second.

ing instruments take between three leased MoistTech’s new CCS 3000 and eight hours to get a result, which online continuous moisture analysis is a massive cost in time for miners”. system which it says cuts the time In addition to this other methods down from hours to mere seconds. which use radiation to measure moisAlready on trial with an iron ore ture content, though slightly faster, miner in the Pilbara, this non-hazardare more likely to draw environmen- ous approach emits rapid energy pulses tal criticism, on top of the need for 7000 times per second from a specifiresults f its P a g eto be 1 taken 1 2 to / 0a laboratory. 2 / 1 3 , 3 cally : 4 2designed : 5 4 energy P M source A E D Tonto the So what can be done? JW has re- fines using an optimised optical design

using forward optical reflection. By using this “miners can get an instantaneous measurement, as it can give a reading nearly every second” prior to the material being loaded on the ship. The technology is designed “to be a policeman, it can stop the material from being wet but here there is a big slug of wet material going then this technology can pick it up”.

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March 2013

AustralianMining

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AD_AMPATMAR_13.pdf

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AM.MAR13.PG020.pdf

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DRILL & BLAST

MULTIPURPOSE

drilling rigs

The rigs allow exploration teams to use a single drill for different ground conditions.

WE WE WE

oart Longyear has im- eering and field testing,” Jus- torque of 7.8 kNm (5,800 ftproved safety features tin Warren, Boart Longyear lbf) at 100 rpm. It also incorand track mounting global product manager said. porates a number of safety on its latest integrated min“The versatility of the features, including a strategieral exploration drilling rig. LX11 allows drilling contrac- cally placed control panel for With a more compact tors the ability to supplement enhanced visibility, remote design the LX11 is an ad- the roles of multiple rigs with control operation so the rig dition to the existing line of the simplicity of one, saving may be driven at a safe disthe company’s multipurpose on equipment costs,” Warren tance, and an interlocked LX6 and LX16 drilling rigs. added. safety cage to protect drillers The medium sized LX11 This drill rig can reach from the rotating drill string. is capable of performing depths of up to 1450 meters As an optional extra the both reverse circulation (RC) using NQ rods via diamond LX11 can be equipped with a and diamond core drilling, drilling and depths of 325 rod handler to assist with the enabling exploration drill- metres using 114-millimetre safe and efficient handling of ers to use just one drill rig in rods via RC drilling. both RC and diamond coring various ground conditions. The LX11 also purports rods. The compact design of This also lowers initial to increase productivity by the LX11 simplifies both site capital investment and elimi- enlisting a 7.2 metre mast access and manoeuvrability. nates the need to switch rigs and a top drive head which It is also designed to fit into a to match drilling conditions. allows for 6-metre rods to 12 metre high cube contain“The multipurpose LX11 be pulled directly under the er, making transportation drilling rig is the culmination head. The top drive single ro- economical. Improved track of Amany hands-on features D _ Ayears M A CofT M A R _ 1 3 tary . p ddrill f head Pa g e 1 1200 5 / 0 2mounting / 1 3 , also 1 1enhances : 5 0 Athe M experience, advanced engin- rpm and has a maximum mobility on steeper grades.

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AM.MAR13.PG021.pdf

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DRILL & BLAST

An intelligent option A contractor is expanding its intelligent drill rig in the face of an industry slowdown.

hile many have predicted a slow down in mining and exploration, it hasn’t slowed all operations. WA drilling contractor, Xcel Drilling and Blasting, has commissioned a second Sandvik DP1100i intelligent drill for use in WA’s Eastern Goldfields region near Kalgoorlie – and took delivery of a third in January 2013, bucking the current trend of constricting operations in the industry. The company’s first 1100i, which was used to service a contract at Alacer Gold’s Higginsville mine, operates alongside the new rig on a new contract at Focus Minerals’ Three Mile Hill property, where a new open cut gold mine is being developed. The two-year contract covers both exploration and proA D _ MA N MB O G N O V _ 1 2 . p d f Pa ge 1 3 / 1 0 / 1 2 , The drills demonstrated an improvement of 25% over earlier DP1100s. duction drilling. The 1100i crawler-based top hammer drill, which Xcel rates as speed – within the cabin a standout the most powerful rig in its class, is feature of this rig. becoming the core of the company’s “Operators can store parameters mining fleet on the basis of its per- tailored to different areas within the formance, reliability and fuel con- mine, so they can ‘hit the ground sumption. running’ at any part of the pit im“We already have seven of the mediately, without having to caliearlier DP1100s in our fleet, and I’m brate the rig every time they start really happy with the service they drilling,” he said. have delivered on a Hughes said an24/7 basis, but Sand- Operators can store other major feature of vik have really raised parameters tailored the 1100i series rigs the bar with these was their outstandnew rigs,” Xcel’s to different areas ing fuel consumpmanaging director within the mine, so tion, which showed Russsell Hughes said. they can ‘hit the an improvement of Hughes said his ground running, 25% over the earlier first 1100i had conDP1100s. without having to sistently met proIn productivity duction targets at calibrate the rig terms this meant the Higginsville, drilling every time they start. drills could comfort102 mm diameter ably operate all day holes to a high standard of accuracy without refuelling and, as a specific to ensure level blasts, although he bottom line benefit, he anticipated Discover the BOGE edge: acknowledged that this perform- an annual fuel saving of the order of www.boge.net.au ance would be difficult to match in 60,000 litres a year on each rig. the more challenging conditions at “We are also very happy with Three Mile Hill. the reliability of the 1100i, which “It’s not an easy pit to work, operated for a year at Higginsville with large areas of hard rock inter- without missing a beat other than spersed with soft material. routine maintenance. This is in line “This makes the facility to preset with the performance we’ve been drilling parameters – feed pressure, getting from our older rigs over the For your nearest distributor please contact boge Head oFFice: (03) 5940 3266 percussion pressure and rotation years,” he said.

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AustralianMining

March 2013

4 : 2 1

AM.MAR13.PG022.pdf

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DRILL & BLAST

Not just hot air Water powered drilling is proving its worth in an iron ore mine in Sweden.

he mining industry is continually looking for new drilling solutions that enable them to mine deeper, faster and more narrowly while at the same time, be more environmentally friendly and reduce costs. Increasingly underground mines are reaching depths that current mining methods can’t manage cost-efficiently. Deeper, leaner ores means larger scale drilling and mining needs to be more precise and safer. With these factors in mind, Wassara have developed and implemented water-powered drilling equipment. The Wassara production drilling system for blast-hole drilling consists of hammers, bits, check valves, drill tubes, high-pressure swivels, highpressure hoses and electric high-pressure water pumps. Today, the water-powered technology is widely used

around the world, particularly in the areas mining, exploration, dam rehabilitation and ground engineering. Swedish mining company LKAB have been able to upscale their production by 800%, by using Wassara’s DTH hammer that allows them to drill long straight holes at a minimised energy cost. LKAB have currently drilled more than 18 million metres with the system and more mines are now beginning to discover the benefits of the Wassara system. “LKAB has been using this technology for their blast holes for over 20 years and has drilled more than 18 million metres, all well documented. We have completed it with more sizes and models that are used in ground engineering, dam rehabilitation and exploration drilling,” Kent Boström, communications manager at LKAB Wassara said.

Wassara implemented the world-patented DTH hammer, which uses high pressure water to power it. With water giving high frequency and high energy per blow, using water as power transmission makes the hammer suitable for drilling in most applications and optimal for use in areas where it’s difficult to implement other technologies. Wassara water-powered system drills very long, straight holes, which results in well-fragmented ore after blasting. When the water leaves the hammer it has enough velocity to bring the cuttings and debris to the surface, leaving a clean hole. Recognising that increasing the slice height between sublevels would reduce costs as long as dilution could be carefully controlled, the Mining R&D team studied the options for drilling longer holes.

The water powered drills have already bored 18 million metres.

The use of water drilling creates smooth, straight holes with minimum deviation, borehole quality, high productivity and little impact on the formation. Whilst using the water powered to scale up ore iron production at LKAB’s Kiruna mine, the length of blast holes was increased from 28 to 56 metres. This gives 28 metres between the levels and drifts from the current 12 metres, reducing the number of development drifts needed by 70%. The outcome from each blast has risen from 1,200 tonnes to 10,000, or 8.3 times more. The bore holes are up to 56 The drills user super compressed water instead of compressed air, minimising heat issues and oil contamination. metres, depend22

March 2013

AustralianMining

ing on the shape of the ore body and the rate of penetration is up to 1.2 metres per minute with 115 mm drill bits. Less deviation is also important to maintain good fragmentation of the ore when blasting. Wassara meets the maximum allowed bore hole deviation in LKAB of 1.5%. The systems also have a number of environmental benefits. The hammer runs on clean water without any oil additives, which results in a working environment free of dust particles and oil mist. Since a high-pressure water pump is much more efficient than an air compressor the energy consumption is roughly 25% of a comparable air drilling system. An additional benefit of this is a reduction of CO2 emissions and an improved work environment with less drill dust and no oil mist, which directly addresses the drill safety issue of superheated air. www.miningaustralia.com.au

AM.MAR13.PG023.pdf

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DRILL & BLAST

Compact roof bolting Roof bolting is set to get safer and easier in smaller access areas.

oof bolting is considered by many as one of the most significant developments in underground coal mining in the last century. And rightly so, it’s always good when the mine’s roof doesn’t col lapse. Introduced in the late 1940s and ’50s, the process replaced timber supports and is now absolutely nec essary in underground operations for the prevention of rock fall acci dents and advancement of a section. Technological improvements in the way of machine design and en gineering has made the cumbersome task of roof bolting a little safer, a lot easier, and more productive. Traditionally roof bolting was A new compact hydraulic drifter for roof bolting is overcoming height restrictions hard work, involving miners lifting underground. [Drifter not pictured] heavy metal into awkward positions. Luckily the manufacturers of roof bolting process, but the difficulty in its new TE160 Hydraulic Drifter for bolter machines, bolts and resin cart getting the machine into place, due roofbolters, which solves much of ridges are looking at ways to improve to its unweildy size in compact, un the size issue underground. their product. derground drifts. To date most rock drills have One of the main issues facing This year’s Bauma exhibition in been A D _ A MT R E F E B _ 1 2 . p d f Pa ge 1 5 / 0 1 / 1 2 , 3 : 2 9 long P Mand thing, taking up much miners now isn’t so much the rock Munich saw TEI Rock Drills if the height space underground, Tread-AustralianHorizontal1-2pg2Page 1 12/19/11 1:15:13 AM launch

whereas the newly developed TE160 is short and fat standing at only 434 millimetres high and 420 millimetres long. By overcoming this traditional issue of height restrictions under ground, the new hydraulic drifter for rock bolting makes it much eas ier to manage then its predecessors. Incorporating a uniquely short design the TE160 is being dubbed “the drifter for roofbolters,” the company said in a statement. Made in the USA, TEI Rock Drills has managed to include its patented percussion section within the compact unit. It can provide 47 to 81 Nm in im pact energy with a frequency of 6500 to 500 BPM, at pressures of 127 to 155 bar. The hydraulic drifter weighs in at only 75.5 kilograms. The overall smaller profile is tipped to make the roof bolting ex perience easier with less work and labour required. It is set to hit mine sites in 2013.

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AM.MAR13.PG024.pdf

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DRILL & BLAST

Deep drill rescue rig A new deep drilling rig has been released which doubles as a rescue drill.

s the mining industry ex pands globally the easy to access high grade ores have already begun to diminish. The remaining high grade and even low grade ores are contained deeper and deeper underground. To uncover these deep ores spe cialist equipment is needed. With this in mind Bauer has unleashed PRAKLA Bohrtechnik’s latest rig – the RBT 90. This new rig is designed to drill deeper, faster. However is it not just the dis covery of new ores for which the universal deep drilling rig is being utilised. As miners go deeper the risks

A D _ A MC L A F E B _ 1 3 . p d f Pa ge 1 1 4 / 0 1 / 1 3 , The mobile deep drilling rig’s maximum small diameter drilling depth is 3000 metres.

onsite increase, and the potential for dangerous incidents rises. The first six rigs, which have been sold to China, have been used to sink emergency rescue shafts to reach trapped miners quickly and safely. According to Bauer “a key fea ture of the newly developed ma chines is their great mobility; built on a truck trailer, they can be towed quickly to any location where they may be needed”. The mobile deep drilling rig’s maximum small diameter drilling depth is 3000 metres, and with 700 millimetres the rig is able to sink bores down to depths of around 1500 metres. However this is not the only drill Bauer has released this year. It will use the upcoming Bauma exhibition to highlight its other new developments. Bauer’s subsidiary RTG Ramm technik GmbH is using the event to 1 showcase 0 : 3 8 two A Mrigs. On show will be the revamped

RT 21 T piledriver mounted on the BS 65 RS base carrier with Eco mode, and features technical ad vances incorporating new sound proofing systems. The rig has an automatic hatch opening device which cuts sound emissions by six decibels during op eration. This represents a major reduc tion compared to conventional soundproofing measures. The re launch of the RT 21 T also features a number of other significant detail enhancements. Bauer will also launch new tech nology at Bauma. The RM 20 is a completely new rig from RTG, designed specially for hydraulic hammer applications, and features a 20 metre usable length. Its designers paid particular at tention to ensuring a light transport weight during operation. The telescopic mast can be tilted 18.3 degrees in all directions. Another key feature of the rig is its patented rope tensioner.

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AM3061_ASC_2013_02.pdf

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AM.MAR13.PG026.pdf

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10:18

VEHICLES

What’s ON

SHOW at Bauma

As the recent MINExpo fades into memory, Europe has begun to prepare for its own massive machinery exhibition – Bauma.

he world’s largest trade show has gotten even larger, with managing director of the company running the exhibition, Messe Munchen’s Eugen Egetenmeir, explaining that the show will cover a record level of space. The exhibition will run over 570 000 square meters and feature 3300 exhibitors, attracting an expected 450 000 visitors. Speaking to a number of companies that plan to exhibit, ranging from Atlas Copco; Sandvik; Bauer; Vermeer; and Cummins through to smaller mining and manufacturing businesses they mostly plan to use the show to launch new equipment. Mining will play a large part of the exhibition, with Bauma’s exhibition partner country Indonesia featuring during a full Indonesian focus day. Australian Mining was at the pre-event and managed to speak to a number of companies that will be launching new equipment at the show. One of the main focuses for most of the machinery manufacturers at the event will be developments in compliance with the new European emissions standards – the Tier IVi/ Stage IIIB engine standards. Scania will be highlighting its new “complete solution” approach and its greater focus on remote area services. Scania’s regional manager for marketing for Scania Mining’s Oceania division, Daniel Bergqvist, told Australian Mining “we are focusing not just on what we produce, but also 26

March 2013

AustralianMining

on customer needs, and working with the customer to improve production; we want to be more of a partner”. Vermeer will showcase its massive T1655 surface excavator which “is the biggest machine we’ve ever built,” the company said. It added that four are already in operation in Australia. The excavation company will also be showcasing its T1255 surface excavator, which is used for more precise excavation. Terex will show a number of different pieces of machinery on its stand, including crushing and screening equipment and aerial/elevated work platforms. It went on to say that new models of crane will be launched at the show, adding that “the exhibit will feature the new, greatly anticipated Terex TLB890 backhoe loader which delivers high breakout force”. “Powerscreen products on display will include the new XA400S jaw crusher with Pre-Screen, the Powerscreen XH320X impact crusher and the Powerscreen Warrior 1400X high-capacity mobile screening plants. “Also on display will be a Terex Finlay J-1170 jaw crusher and the new Terex Finlay I-100RS mobile impact crusher.” It will also unveil its new business segment – Material Handling and Port Solutions. Caterpillar will focusing on its new hybrid excavator – the 336E H, which will be officially launched at Bauma. The Cat 336E H uses a new hy-

draulic hybrid technology developed by Caterpillar. “A hybrid is independent of any particular technology – it doesn’t have to be electric,” Ken Gray, global product manager for large hydraulic excavators for Caterpillar’s Excavation Division, said. “There are many ways to store and reuse energy, including our patented hydraulic hybrid system featured on the Cat 336E H. We can’t wait to see the reaction of our customers to the 336E H,” he said. “We’re confident they will be delighted. No other commercially available technology has higher power density than hydraulics, and that’s why we selected a hydraulic solution to help our customers achieve substantial fuel savings.” Element 6 is taking a different tack and highlighting the uses of manufactured industrial grade diamonds. It has developed new processes to replace tungsten carbide in picks to provide longer operational life by “increasing the wear resistance, right now we have managed to increase its usage by 40 times but we are planning to increase it by 50 times,” Australian Mining was told. It is also showing its new percussion diamond inserts for drilling, in particular down the hole and percussive drilling, which are slated to replace tungsten bits. Topcon will be looking towards greater connectivity and precision on mine sites as it highlights its HiPer

V and new network communication tools for site management. It features Vanguard Technology; 226 GNSS Channels; a rugged, magnesium alloy construction; integrated RTK and static receivers; and fence antenna advanced performance. MAN trucks and bus will display its new a heavy-duty TGS dump truck for gross weights of 50 tonnes especially for the mining industry at Bauma 2013. “The new TGS 50.440 8x4 BB chassis and body are matched to [mining] operations. In conjunction with a reinforced subframe, the four-axle rear tipper is designed for a permissible gross weight of 50 tonnes. The tipper trough has a capacity of 20 cubic metres. Floor plate and walls are made from highly wear-resistant steel,” the company explained. Liebherr will showcase a number of new machines. “It is the largest exhibition at the largest show in the world, covering 14 000 square metres,” Liebherr’s Kristian Koch said. Bauma will be the world premiere of its TA 240 articulated dump truck, as well as its HS 8300 HD Duty Cycle crawler crane in hybrid design. It will also showcase rotary drills, components and hydraulic cylinder position measurers. Australian Mining was also told that the machinery company will launch a surprise machine at the event. Bauma will run from April 15 to 21 in Munich, Germany. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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AM.MAR13.PG028.pdf

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VEHICLES

Electric LHDs Atlas Copco is making strides in bringing electric LHDs to the underground mine.

tlas Copco has released a new carbon emission free LHD

loader. The new Scooptram EST1030 is the latest addition to the company’s range of Scooptram underground loaders. According to the company the new LHD’s electric motor means that it now consumes less energy compared to a diesel engine, while at the same time producing less heat and lower noise levels. It uses approximately 40 per cent less energy and produces 40 per cent less heat during ‘general operations’. The EST1030 uses approximately 40% less energy. As the motor is electric it also directly addresses one of the key issues faced in opLars Bergkvist, Atlas the price of fuel is rising. We erating heavy machinery in Copco’s global projects man- strongly believe that efficient underground mines – diesel ager explained that “as mines electric vehicles will be the key particulate matter, as well as go deeper, heat and ventila- in future mining operations”. only there are concerns A Drequiring _ _ 1 0 .minimal p d f venP a g tion e 1becomes 1 6 / more 0 3 /and 1 0more , 3 : 1 While 4 PM tilation and air to operate. problematic. At the same time over the range of an electri-

March 2013

AustralianMining

cally powered motor underground, cable powered electric loaders are not a new concept, and have demonstrated operatability underground for sometime.

However the issue of cable and cable control still remained, with high tension causing the cable to wrap around corners – causing cuts and high levels of cable wear. The EST1030 has now solved this problem with a new cable control system that minimises cable tension as well as cable wear. Despite the change in power supply the controls remain the same, with the same system as the ST1030 diesel version. Safety has also been a focus, with the new LHD including spring applied hydraulically released (SAHR) brakes as well as an ISO and ROPS/FOPS approved cabin. The cabin has been more ergonomically designed with increased leg room and better control placements, while the cabin itself is placed on rubber mounts to reduce vibrations.

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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// B E C A U S E Y O U D O N ’ T D O T H I N G S B Y H A LV E S

Hitachi AC Drive dump trucks. Built to match Hitachi excavators. Our trucks and excavators are brothers. They’re designed by the same engineers, assembled in the same factories, and built to the same quality. If you’re running a Hitachi excavator, then you’ve already experienced half of the Hitachi advantage. Now it’s time to see what a fleet can do.

AM.MAR13.PG030.pdf

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AUTOMATION & REMOTE CONTROL

CONVERTING I

t seems today’s game is all about adaptation, taking readily available technology and finding new ways to implement it or industries to use it. Although this is not an old idea, finding new markets for products and creating economies of scale has been around since what seems to be the dawn of business. And it makes perfect sense. In today’s market place finding operational efficiencies is more important than ever. Many mine sites around Australia are working on implementing automated machinery and processes on site, something that has been taking place for years in manufacturing. Richard Mathews, chief executive of enterprise software company RPM, explained that although the mining industry has been “slow in comparison to other industries there is a big drive now” to integrate and simplify the software and automation solutions used. “There’s a significant drive because everyone understands it’s all about driving the costs down,” he said. Machinery Automation and Robotics [MAR] solutions engineer Mark Lix agreed, he told Australian Mining he is witnessing a shift to a focus on efficiency, and although it is not at the same level as manufacturing it is well on its way. Recognising this new priority MAR has launched its new MARbot robotic idler prediction system which A D to _ A M C A V M A forecast R _ 1 3 when . pd is able automatically

manufacturing

an idler will fail, using a combination of technologies including thermal sensing. The MARbot purports to keep conveyors running and improve safety by removing operators from a risky task. The non intrusive inspection process reduces downtime as all inspections can occur while the conveyor is fully functioning. The robotic solution can also be remotely controlled, taking the operator away from the danger zone. The IP rated MARbot is an all weather solution with an estimated fifteen year lifespan, it also comes with a 24 hour on site support service. According to the ABS, the minThe wealth ing industry’s share of total Australof R&D in the ian industry output has grown from about 4.5 per cent in the 2004 finanmanufacturing cial year to more than 10 per cent in industry is adapting the 2012 financial year. Compare this growth to manuitself to the mine site. facturing and its magnitude becomes Alex Heber writes. even clearer. Manufacturing has fallen from about the 12 per cent mark to below 8 per cent. largest share of business investment, In the mid 90s manufacturing the sector peaked at just over 20 per was Australia’s largest component cent. So adapting automation technolin terms of total industry output at ogy to fit the mining sector is a smart around 15 per cent. business move for a company that in Meanwhile mining’s share of busi- the past would’ve significantly servness investment has also increased iced manufacturing. from less than 13 per cent to more Earlier this year Deloitte released than 40 per cent over the same eight a report naming the top ten trends year period. for mining in 2013, coming in at To put this in context, when man- number ten was “implementing new f Pa ge 1 1 2 / 0 2 / 1 3 , : 4 3 : 5 7 PM AEDT ufacturing held the title of Australia’s 3 technology”.

More mining companies are choosing to reduce operational costs and increase efficiency through significant technology investments. Implementing remote monitoring and control capabilities through programmable logic controllers (PLCs) enables miners to automate industrial processes like blasting, drilling, and transportation and inturn can improve mine site safety and accelerate production rates.

Four decades of innovation and efficiency.

Cavotec Micro-control is a leading supplier of radio remote control systems for the oil and gas sector. With a well-established presence in the North Sea market, we are expanding our offering to become a global player. Cavotec Micro-control is now represented in more than 40 offices around the world including in Perth, Brisbane, Newcastle and Melbourne. We have focused increasingly on offshore EX applications since 1998, when DNV granted our first EX approval. Cavotec Micro-control products are fully compliant with IECEx and ATEX certifications for the Australian offshore market.

Cavotec Australia (Perth) 24 Garnet Way, Maddington, WA 6109, Australia – Telephone: +61 (0) 8 9452 0044 – E-mail: info.au@cavotec.com www.cavotec.com

March 2013

AustralianMining

Inspired Engineering

www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMCRKFEB_13.pdf

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AM.MAR13.PG032.pdf

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AUTOMATION & REMOTE CONTROL

Smart software solutions Complex design challenges are being overcome by better technology and automation. Kevin Gomez writes.

hat links together sour gas, declining fuel pressure and blowdowns in the oil and gas industry? Well, they’re just some of the challenges in major projects that Australia’s biggest contractor, WorleyParsons, has grappled with in recent times. The company recently won yet another contract with BG Group’s $20 billion Curtis LNG facility in Queensland. Although profit margins at WorleyParsons are under pressure, new CEO Andrew Wood is proud that his company is one of the few that can do major project end-to-end delivery. A key strategy behind much of WorleyParsons’ success is embracing all five phases of the project asset lifecycle – Identify, Evaluate, Define, Execute, and Operate. Supporting this strategy is a suite of products from AspenTech. In 2003, WorleyParsons deployed core AspenONE Engineering applications, Aspen HYSYS and Aspen Basic Engineering (ABE), at four global design centres, starting with the Melbourne office. The initial focus was on basic simulation and the production of PFDs (Process Flow Diagrams), datasheets, and equipment list deliverables, as well as the importing of heat and material balance data from conceptual design. After an initial test, the AspenTech solution was expanded and used on increasingly large and complicated projects. Nathan Smith, engineering manager – process at WorleyParsons Hydrocarbons joined the company eight years ago when AspenTech products were already entrenched at the company. One of the tools employed for the Curtis Island project was Aspen HYSYS (Aspen Process Modeller), which intro32

March 2013

AustralianMining

duced the approach of steady state and dynamic simulations in the same platform, thereby taking process simulation to another level. The data from Aspen HYSYS is integrated into Aspen Basic Engineering (ABE) then maintained in a single, upto-date central repository and shared by all team members in any location worldwide. HYSYS information is automatically interfaced into ABE, eliminating any data redundancy and recapturing errors. WorleyParsons used this to model a gas processing train where there was a declining inlet gas pressure. The challenge was to determine how much flow could be pushed through the gas processing train as a function of the declining inlet gas pressure. The team outlined the capability of the export compressors, because those were viewed as a potential bottleneck. By modelling the compressors dynamically in Aspen HYSYS and HYSYS Dynamics, with data such as export pressures or discharge pressures, they were able to build the model to the requirements at the front end of the plant. This included modelling elements like gas heat exchanges, low temperature separators and inlet separators. The team was therefore able to generate pressure drops through all of those equipment items as a function of inlet conditions such as inlet arrival pressure and flow rate. Notes Smith: “Ultimately we were able to grow the operating envelope, not just from the compressor set but from the entire gas train, then marry that up with the deliverability of the gas wells to tell the customer how much gas they were able to process over the tailing life of the well.”

The intuitive user interface of Aspen HYSYS is a drawcard. WorleyParsons are able to train a range of employees to use the software with a fairly good degree of accuracy very quickly. “Also, the level of definition is good; we can apply things like discrete pressure drops across specific unit items,” explains Smith. “It’s very easy to set up pipe segments and model pressure drops, so it has the functionality yet the intuitive interface.” Aspen HYSYS can also be combined with products from other companies as was the case in a subsea project on which WorleyParsons were the engineers. As it emerges from the well, water contained in natural gas mixes with the sour component of the gas (high concentration of H2S), and condenses due to the cooling from the subsea environment. This can then corrode the upstream section of the carbon steel pipeline. WorleyParsons used Aspen HYSYS in combination with CFD Modeller package from another vendor to model a subsea cooler made out of a corrosion resistant alloy. A length of corrosion resistant alloy was placed subsea near the gas well just sitting on top of the sea bed. The gas is cooled such that the rate of condensation under water is dramatically reduced below 50°C. Once the gas was cooled down to less than 50°C, it was possible to run that gas in a carbon steel pipeline going to the gas plant onshore. Effectively, the raw gas is precooled in a corrosion resistant alloy. It is then possible to run the remainder of the pipeline in carbon steel, saving enormous costs, because there is going to be far less condensation of www.miningaustralia.com.au

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the water and little or no corrosion. “We used HYSYS to model the forced convection heat transfer effects inside the subsea cooler,” explains Smith. “We used computational fluid dynamics from another package to model the natural convection effects of a hot pipe spool under water.” The sea water absorbed the heat from the gas and, by pairing up Aspen HYSYS with the CFD Modeller, the WorleyParsons team were able to design the length of spool required to cool the gas from its 90°C flowing temperature to below 50°C. A mechanical subsea cooler has since been designed and installed and the wells are soon to start up. “The well is going to be starting up shortly,” notes Smith, “and we’re all keen to see how that subsea cooler performs.” There are a lot more projects on the horizon – for WorleyParsons as well as other EPC contractors. According to the Bureau of Resources and Economics, committed investment in resources and energy major projects in the country is running at $268.4 billion. But human capital is a challenge in Australia, primarily in terms of cost. “Melbourne and Perth are some expensive A D of _ Athe M Rmost CT M A R _ 1 3towns . pd in the world to get engineering

CFD of subsea cooler and outside heat transfer coefficient.

performed,” notes Smith. Explains Smith: “What we see is WorleyParsons CEO Andrew the front end of the design process ocWood concurs and is reported say- curring in Australia and then the back ing that Australia needs to think of end of the design process is executed smarter ways to develop the skills somewhere else where it’s more cost needed to manage and run complex effective.” multibillion dollar projects. The projects can often be challengThe company has set up a few high ing requiring WorleyParsons to draw “intelligence” to f value P aengineering g e 1 6centres / 0 2 for / 1 detailed 3 , 1 0 on : 5its3 international AM design and execution of projects. come up with smart solutions.

WorleyParsons was asked to provide engineering services for a gas plant that was seeking to add a second processing train but wished to retain their existing high pressure vent system. The WorleyParsons team used the Aspen Flare System Analyzer to understand both the operating velocities and the hydraulics. The built up back pressures were calculated in certain segments of the vent system to determine how much of the proposed plant could be integrated into the existing vent system. A sequence of gas blowdowns was developed to ensure that the design pressures or any velocity constraints in the vent system were not exceeded. A blowdown is an emergency reaction – if the operators detect gas released from equipment or if there is fire detected on a gas plant, they will open up valves to direct the gas through the vent system. This reduces the likelihood of the adverse scenario growing or escalating. This emergency escalation prevention directs fuel that is inherently in the gas plant to a controlled release point which is the vent system. “If we’re going to integrate different or new equipment items into the gas plant, we couldn’t blowdown the entire plant all at once,” explains Smith. “

MINING HAS NEVER BEEN THIS EASY Control & Automation solutions anywhere

For more information please contact RCT on (08) 9353 6577 visit the new website: www.miningaustralia.com.au

AustralianMining

March 2013

AM.MAR13.PG034.pdf

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SAFETY

A mother on a MINING M

ining can be a dangerous business, throughout history there has been too many accidents, lives lost, limbs severed. Although progress around safety has been made, one death on site is still one death to many. Generally focus is placed on the employer; questions are asked; blame is laid, and rightly so: it is expected and written in legislation that an employer must provide a safe place of work for every single employee. Every miner who sets off to work deserves to return home safely. But when a chain of events sets off and one mistake or lack of consideration results in a life lost, it is the families that are left with the burden of heartache for years to come. On November 19, 2010 twentynine miners never returned home. The men died in a gas explosion at New Zealand’s Pike River underground coal mine. For Joanne Ufer November 19 is a date that will forever remain etched in her mind. That is the day Ufer lost her son, Joshua aged just 25. Two years on Ufer took some time out to talk to Australian Mining about the legacy she is building to keep Joshua’s name alive and how her life changed forever on that fateful day. “It’s been a really rough road, and it continues to be,” Ufer said. “The loss, I will never get over and neither will his family and friends.” The dangerous nature of what is left of the Pike River mine means the bodies of the men have never been recovered, making any hope of closure even harder to find. “I don’t think it’s something we will ever get over, especially with him never being returned to us,” Ufer explained. In her ongoing search of closure, Ufer decided no other family should go through what her’s has, not on her watch, and so teaming up with the Mine Safety Institute of Australia, Ufer is determined the same mistakes made at Pike River are never repeated here. In the wake of the Pike River mine disaster the New Zealand Government authorised a Royal Commission to investigate the tragedy, which took over 12 months and cost $10.5 million to complete. The report that eventuated contains a host of valuable lessons which Ufer and the team at MSIA believe 34

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MISSION

Mining accidents have wide ranging impacts, affecting not only the miner, but their family and community. Alex Heber writes.

need to be implemented here in Australia in order for zero harm to be achieved. Together with Commissioner Stuart Bell and MSIA director Mark Parcell, Ufer is taking her mission on the road, running seminars to discuss the key findings of the Pike River report. “It’s about learning the lessons from the past, from people who know the information, making sure we get it right so we minimise the grief for people in the future,” Parcell said. “Good will come out of [the sessions] and people will take away a few lessons from the Pike tragedy,” Ufer said. She said part of the seminars purpose is “to make sure we have the highest standards” and to ensure best practices are enshrined in Australia’s mining sector. “We already have a good safety record; I just want to make sure everything that is covered in the Royal Commission report is done here, to adopt the practices and the recommendations, to make sure we are on top of the game. “Tragedy with multiple loss of life has happened here [in Australia] before,” she said. “There are still single fatalities on a too regular basis and I think any learnings are good learnings.” Parcell says the seminars, which are scheduled for venues across the eastern sea board, will “simplify the 500 page Pike River report, bringing it to the people and making sure everyone is aware of what failed in New Zealand so Australia doesn’t have to have its own commission”. “If you screw up all these processes you’re going to have an accident.

“We’re just keen to help,” he said. Ufer and Parcel are also founding members of A Miners’ Legacy, a foundation set up to promote safety and to ensure miners’ families receive the support they need following a work accident. Describing the organisation Parcell said it’s “part crusade and part therapy”. Ufer agrees, telling Australian Mining the work the organisation does is key to the legacy she is forging for her son. “I think what I’m doing is part of the process for me, keeping Joshua’s name alive and creating a legacy for him and the other 28 victims, to say this is what happened and let’s not allow it to happen again. “Personally I feel he would be proud of me doing that.” At the Pike River seminars Ufer will be discussing the personal effects the tragedy has had on her and the other families touched by the Greymouth disaster. “I’m not a professional miner so I will be speaking from the heart.”

Lessons to be learnt

Drawing on her own experience in the aftermath of the explosion, Ufer also has her own ideas of what needs to happen if another life is lost. “There are a few things companies can look at when engaging with the families when something like this happens. “One example is to ensure next of kin details are kept as up-to-date as possible. “Having the wrong or out of date details makes it very difficult for the right family members to get the

necessary information,” she said. Lack of communication was a real issue Ufer had to contend with following the accident. In Ufer’s case, her son was working in New Zealand on a contract basis, whilst she was in Australia and his father was in China. “So there were time issues with New Zealand being ahead of us. “With social media these days companies don’t have the time that they used to have to ensure people get the news in the correct manner. Ufer received a text message notifying her of her son’s death. Technology has allowed for information to be distributed immediately on site which isn’t always a good thing Ufer explains. “You can send a message immediately as soon as something happens onsite, whereas before you could shut down, go into lockdown mode, I don’t know how they’re going to get around that, but that is something that I would like them to think about. With little to no contact from the owner of Pike River or the contractor who employed Joshua, the families of the Pike River Mine disaster were forced to form their own legal committee to represent their interests at the Royal Commission. “They have done a great job of keeping us in the loop of what was happening with regular emails, phone calls, teleconferences and also weekly meetings.” There was no counselling offered following the accident, however liaison officers were provided by Air New Zealand when it first happened. “We had assistance from the Australian consular as well.” www.miningaustralia.com.au

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The mine’s owners went into receivership a month after the accident “The receivers were running the show and the company was not very forthcoming with information and now the mine’s been sold. So now we’re dealing with another set of owners who to date have been fairly reasonable, upfront and honest with what they expect.”

Forging a legacy

Director of the MSIA Mark Parcell told Australian Mining that now more than ever before miners’ families need support. “The demographic has changed, in the old days the miner was a member of the union, and the union had women’s auxiliaries and everyone lived in the towns, there was no fly-in fly-out, drive-in drive-out, or 4 on 4 off. “Everyone worked there Monday to Friday, eight hour shifts, they all played in the local footy team and it was a real community. “However, now-a-days, more than 50 per cent of mine workers are contractors, everyone works a roster, they live in a camp, and their families live a thousand miles away.” Parcell used the example of the tragic death of mining contractor Jason Blee, who in 2007 was crushed in a Queensland underground coal mine between a mine wall and a shuttle car. Blee’s wife Rachel has been left to bring up their four children alone. “Everyone now lives in remote locations; their families aren’t supported by the community, so all of these families are depending on the company [for support]. “In Rachel’s case, she wasn’t well supported and in fact she had to fight everyone to get anything. “That’s not right. That’s just not

fair. We’re such a big strong mining industry and we’re really neglecting the families of blokes who are severely injured and killed. We can’t do that,” Parcell stated. Rachel Blee, also a member of A Miners’ Legacy and has like Ufer given numerous talks on mine safety and her personal experience of losing a loved one in a mine accident in an effort to ensure it doesn’t happen again. “I’ll make sure that he doesn’t die in vain and is remembered by more than his payroll number. “I think the communication was the biggest failure that happened on the day of Jason’s death. He was killed at 10:10am, I wasn’t informed until 2:30pm,” Blee said. Discussing the fateful day of her husband’s death Blee said: “I feel let down by the mining companies in regards to not knowing why it took so long to be told, I could’ve been out there a lot earlier, I may not have been able to do anything but I would’ve known that my husband had been involved in an accident. I could’ve got someone to have my children, instead of having it all land in my lap when the police officers attended. Four and a half hours later it was, to be told tragic circumstances.” Ausco safety officer Mike Spriggs, said that technology isn’t making communication around mine site accidents any easier. “With the world of electronic technology now it has to be done very, very quickly. To find out second hand as Rachel did is pretty average,” he said. Coronial recommendations into Jason Blee’s death included the next of kin notification procedures be improved and followed. “Zero harm is achievable if they have the right mindset about it,” Blee said.

Zero harm is achievable, if they have the right mind set, Blee stated. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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MATERIALS HANDLING

STABLE solutions New materials handling machinery is set to hit the mine site.

emand is growing on mines for safe, quick material handling solutions. Whether it is bulk goods movement or single bit of equipment or machinery it has to be moved safely on a site which is usually a hive of activity. Added to this is the issue of terrain. Mining operations aren’t known for being the most level of work spaces. Because of this stability and manoeuvrability are essential when working in rough and tough areas of mine sites. Recognised as the inventor of the rough terrain machinery Manitou manufacture a comprehensive range of materials handling and lifting equipment that ensure operations remain safe, reliable and economical. And at the upcoming Bauma exhibition in Munich, later this year, the company will be highlighting its latest offerings and new develop-

Rough terrain telehandlers are providing miners with more options on site.

ments in lower emission materials handling.

Rough terrain masted forklifts

Working on natural, rough or ungraded road surfaces may not be suitable for ordinary forklifts, posing a possible danger to forklift operators. Its telescopic units are multi-purpose with a range of quick-hitch attachments, including forks, buckets, muck grabs, tyre handlers, personal cages and jibs/winches. Designed from the ground up, operator safety, comfort and easy maintenance were all issues considered during development. This means the new M30 and M50 range of rough terrain forklifts are available in many configurations to ensure companies are operating with the correct machine.

Manitou says the V400 is the strongest skidsteer in the market, able to lift 1.8 tonnes.

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AustralianMining

In line with the latest European emissions standards both vehicles feature an IIIB – Tier IV engine. Both designed specifically for handling loads on rough terrain the M30 has a lift capacity of 300 kg and a travel speed of 28 km/h while the M50 boasts a lift capacity of 5000 kg, has a travel speed of 25 km/h and a lift height of 3.70 metres.

Rotative telescopic handlers

Telehandlers are becoming more popular on mine sites due to their flexibility and usefulness and are perfect for use in limited access areas or applications. The machine’s versatility means it can be used at every stage construction timeline and allowed users to perform multiple applications with one machine due to the many attached that can be added it. With a wide range of attachments available, and featuring a 360 degree rotation, the MRT is a great choice for structural work, industrial maintenance and other jobs around any construction site. They feature attachment recognition technology, and importantly, automatic stability calculation. This adaptive load chart feature allows users to intuitively calculate and program the correct working space for the machine, taking into account the stabiliser position and turret angle, as well as any work space restrictions such as height issues or obstructions to the front and side. The telehandlers also feature improved operator visibility, which was achieved by modifying the roof grid design from a horizontal to a vertical pattern.

One of the major improvements for the vehicle is the Eco-mode during road operation. This transfers power from the unused parts of the machine such as the boom hydraulics to the wheels and steering, minimising wasted energy during driving; with Manitou adding that “all of your power goes to driving”. The MRT Series telehandler offers rotation and 3-in-1 versatility for multiple applications, and can be equipped with a winch or jib for crane applications, fitted with forks for a handling operations, or fitted with a platform to become an aerial work platform. The rotating telehandlers will lift loads, or personnel, to heights from 14 to 30 metres. Loads from 8,000 to 10,000 pounds are easily handled by the versatile machines.

Further expansion

Maintou is also refocusing on expanding its middle lift range, adding three new models with lifts ranging from eight to 14 metres. These machines will also feature the Tier IV engines. It will also bring out the new Gehl and Mustang skid loaders, known as the V400 and 4000V respectively. These are expected to hit Australian shores in the second quarter of this year, and “are the world’s most powerful skidsteers, with more than 1.8 tonnes of operating capacity”. The machines have a breakout force of 4150 kilograms and a vertical lift height of 3.65 metres, all powered by a 74kW engine. It will feature the new machines at Bauma. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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AEDT

Metso… …Built solid

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Metso apron and wobbler feeders backed by real-world experience

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4,000 feeders worldwide, you can rely on Metso’s equipment and reputation. They’re both rock solid. For more information, please contact your Metso representative as below: Metso apron and wobbler feeders are designed tough and built solid to handle the most Perth: 08 9420 5555, Brisbane: 07 3623 2999, severe your productivity depends on it. Backed by experience Sydney: 02impact 8825 1600, conditions, Newcastle: 02 4978because 8100 Metso Minerals Ltd, L2, 1110 Hay Street, West Perth 6005 you can rely on Metso’s equipment and reputation. with more(Australia) than 4,000 feeders worldwide, Email : minerals.info.ap@metso.com, website : www.metso.com They’re both rock solid.

MT280a Australian Mining Magazine Apron Feeder Full Page Advertisement March 2013.indd 1

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MATERIALS HANDLING

Cutting carbon New schemes are set to aid miners in reducing their trucks’ carbon footprints.

A D _ A MA L B MA R _ 1 3 . p d f Pa ge 1 1 2 / 0 2 / 1 3 , 3 : 5 4 : 1 9 PM AEDT Trucks hauling overburden and ore are one of the largest carbon emitters on site, increasing the pain of the carbon tax.

s the carbon tax continues to bite miners’ bottom line, resources companies have to think about the most efficient way to operate. They also have to think about their highest carbon emitting operations – mainly haul trucks traversing the site. In addition to this many other mining companies wear the cost of additional freight by truck for sites reachable only by road. Bulk Mine Services is the first brand new company to be certified as carbon-neutral, and is aiming to transform the way the mining industry thinks about carbon emissions. Bulk Mine Services principal Steve Fieldus said his company wanted to lean by example and start the business on the right foot. “What we wanted to do with Bulk Mine Services, was to be on the front foot and carbon-neutral from day one,” Fieldus said. Fieldus said the Dubbo-based transport and logistics company

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March 2013

AustralianMining

The global leader in door opening solutions www.miningaustralia.com.au

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MATERIALS HANDLING

Handling Bulk Powders and Granules? We are System Designers, Suppliers and Integrators for heavy duty mining work.

Dense Phase Pneumatic Conveying

for very efficient powder transfer Microveyor shown under a bulkbag discharge station

low-rate economical MicroveyorTM models 100kg to 10 tonne/hr

high-rate ‘KT’ series, for 5 to 500 tonne/hr

More efficient engines and operation is cutting the carbon costs.

would begin its operations with one truck, but hoped to expand to meet the demand for the transportation of any mining-related bulk products as well as general freight. “We’ll find logistical solutions for products that need to be moved into and out of mining centres and by offering our services to mining related industries we’ll be getting the carbonneutral message into their psyche by showing them a sustainable way forward.” Low Carbon Australia CEO Meg McDonald said it made sense to create a business plan with projections for baseline activities and carbon emissions. “It makes good business sense to operate as efficiently as possible, and adopting carbon-neutral thinking means you can encourage a staff culture of thoughtful energy and resource use while choosing low-emissions technology to keep operating costs down,” she said. The National Carbon Offset Standard (NCOS) provides companies with certifications that their organisation, event, service or product has met strict Australian standards for carbon neutrality. Low Carbon Australia Limited is the Australian Government’s official certifier of carbon neutrality, providing financial solutions and advice to businesses on how to boost investment in energy efficiency. Bulk Mine Services has committed to trialling low sulphur diesel and biodiesel fuels in its trucks, as well as a driver incentive program which rewards drivers for lower fuel consumption. www.miningaustralia.com.au

The company will also decommission older trucks to reduce the likelihood of higher emissions for less carbon efficient engines. Waste oil and tyres are also recycled, further reducing emission outputs. The company plans to meet its electricity needs through GreenPower and will purchase and retire offsets to bring its total emissions to zero. Fieldus said the company’s Dubbo location meant they were ideally located to be a mining industry services hub in New South Wales’ central west. “While we’re based in Dubbo, Bulk Mine Services would be happy to look at any transport or logistical requirements in all Australian regions,” he added. Fieldus is also principal of the Dubbo-based Transforce Bulk Haulage which last year became the nation’s first heavy transporter to be certified as carbon neutral, demonstrating how trucking could be a more sustainable industry. McDonald has welcomed the move made by both companies to take up the challenge of becoming carbonneutral. “Steve has been a wonderful ambassador for our Carbon Neutral Program to date and it’s fantastic that he’s ensuring his new transport business travels the same road,” she said. “Last year, our Carbon Neutral Network members collectively avoided more than 1 million tonnes of carbon emissions. “Through their commitment they’re set to increase that amount this year.”

Discharge of powder products to silos from containers. We offer a range of solutions, and rates of transfer.

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AustralianMining

March 2013

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MATERIALS HANDLING

Keep it Safe, Keep it Clean Clean, Safe Bulk Materials Handling relies on the continued performance of eﬃcient equipment. Without maintenance, all equipment fails to perform eﬀectively, no matter what equipment is being used and failed equipment around conveyors ultimately results in lost production time, unsafe work areas and environmental contamination.

The stackable pallets have been designed to increase working space.

ESS provides competency based technicians to specifically to monitor and maintain Conveyor Belt Cleaning, Sealing and Support systems. ESS Techs are able to inspect conditions and produce a condition report and maintenance plan that can be actioned by Owners, Contracting companies or ESS Technicians in a manner that prioritises the maintenance based on risk analysis. ESS offers a range of flexible maintenance and monitoring services to ensure optimum performance from the plants conveying systems. We tailor our services to your requirements.

ESS Maintenance and Monitoring Services include; • Installation and Commissioning • Service and Maintenance • Inspection and reporting services • On site trouble-shooting • Site compliant vehicles and Equipment • Maintenance Mai Contract

• Conveyor Maintenance Training (Foundations 4)

Get into a Partnership to monitor your conveyor belt system performance to achieve a Cleaner, Safer, More Productive Plant.

Proudly Manufactured in Australia 40

March 2013

AustralianMining

Slim line pallets Nesting pallets are clearing up space on the floor.

ulk Handling Australia Group 10 stack only measuring 280 mm in (BHA) has released its new slim height.” line plastic export pallet for With more than 30 companies Bulk Bags onto the Australian and already trialling the new pallet over New Zealand Markets. the last 18 months, Shaw said the BHA have been developing the response from customers had been BHA Bag Pallet for over two years good. and said the innovation provides a “Customer feedback has been low-cost alternative to wooden or very positive with regards to the retraditional plastic pallets. cyclable nature of the material, the Injection moulded from High Den- fact that it is light weight and stacksity Polyethylene (HDPE), it features able, and because it can be reused in a a four way entry design, is stackable closed loop system,” he said. to save space, and is fully recyclable. “The new pallet is a very unique Weighing in at just 4.7 kg, the new design and while it may not be suitapatented design ticks all the boxes ble in all instances due to the specific from an OH&S perspective. fill systems or handling processes of The BHA Bag Pallet has also been individual customers, in the majorlaboratory and field ity of instances the tested to determine the The pallets are BHA Bag Pallet has design weight load per- stackable, with a been trialled successformance for different across a number 10 stack measuring fully bulk bag base dimenof industry segments.” sions and through ex- 280mm in height. Shaw said the Paltensive fill and logistics let was an important trials amongst bulk bag exporting design development for BHA. companies. “The new pallet complements BHA managing director Ian Shaw our existing product range and fursays the BHA Bag Pallet will provide ther strengthens our leadership poinnovation in the bulk bag export sition in the supply of Bulk Bags in market for the food, agriculture, Australia and New Zealand,” he mining, chemical, and other export said. industries. “The extensive trial work we “The slim line design allows for a have completed both in the lab and lower profile, which provides the op- with our customers over the past 18 portunity to design greater efficiency months has provided the feedback in the total container payload by re- to justify the significant investment viewing the existing bulk bag dimen- in the injection mould required to sions,” he said. manufacture the product. “The ‘stack-ability’ of the prod“With BHA in discussions with a uct offers huge space savings in the number of companies regarding disstorage of pallets compared to stand- tribution rights in various countries ard wooden or plastic pallets, with a around the world.” www.miningaustralia.com.au

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HUNTER VALLEY FOCUS

SALT IN THE WOUND:

Hunter River mining battle Concerns are rising in the Hunter Valley as miners expand their operations. Alex Heber reports.

oncern for the Hunter River is growing as locals and environmentalists fear continued expansion of coal mines located upstream will “kill” the estuary. Damaging the water source will debilitate the region’s strong farming sector and hamper further growth of the local tourism industry. Hunter Environment Lobby president Jan Davis’ warnings were backed by NSW Greens senator Lee Rhiannon and long-time residents John Weight and Graham Roberts. As far back as four years ago Wright said he feared the river’s demise. Wright stands by his comments, criticising the mines for ruining the river. “They’re ruining our Hunter Valley up there; you look at it, it’s like a moonscape up there, it’s become 42

March 2013

AustralianMining

all about the dollar and no one cares about the river anymore,” Wright said from his family’s Morpeth farm which backs directly onto the banks of the Hunter River. “When I was a kid you could go for a swim and have a mouthful of water and it’d be OK because there was nothing wrong with it.” Wright has called for tighter ecological regulations on how the mining industry disposes of its water. Calls that came just days after Australian Mining reported Xstrata has applied to expand its Mangoola coal mine, ramping up production by almost 30 per cent to 13.5 million tonnes of coal a year. The expansion, if approved will create an estimated 150 new jobs for the region. But it comes with a caveat.

Originally called Anvil Hill, Mangoola was approved by the NSW state government in 2008 under the proviso it did “not discharge any saline water from the site’’. Xstrata is now requesting approval to pump saline water into the Hunter River. The company said the request is primarily a “contingency” plan and discharging the saline water into the river would not be an everyday event. Instead, it would only occur ‘‘in extreme or prolonged high rainfall periods’’ and would ‘‘provide assurance’’ against ‘‘unplanned discharges or overtopping’’ of water from voids or dams. An environmental assessment is yet to go on display for public comment. Davis said the river’s health was deteriorating year on year and that the wa-

ter was contaminated with chemicals and high levels of salt which coal mines feed into the system. She cautioned that the river faced a fate of no return and all hope of rehabilitation would be lost if the coal mines in the region continued to expand. Currently there are about 30 proposals for operation expansion in the pipeline. The river has already experienced a change in salinity which Davis said is evident through the region’s agricultural pursuits, with many crops now unable to be grown because of the increased salinity. “There is so many turf farms near the river because the salinity doesn’t hurt them, but it makes lucerne and vegetable crops sick.” Last year Greens senator for NSW Lee Rhiannon called for a regional water study to be conducted and

an inquiry into the impact coal mining is having on the river to be held. Rhiannon’s calls did not garner support in the Senate. NSW environment minister and member for Maitland Robyn Parker said the effect of mining and power operations on water quality in the Hunter River was strictly regulated by the Hunter River Salinity Trading Scheme (HRSTS). Parker said the HRSTS has consistently met its salinity water targets over its 10 years of operation. “The scheme is operated by the EPA with technical support provided by the Office of Water and State Water which monitor the salinity levels in the river from a number of gauging stations both within the river itself and at mine sites,” Parker said. “The scheme ensures that water quality is mainwww.miningaustralia.com.au

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HUNTER VALLEY FOCUS

tained by setting out procedures that only allow saline water discharges from industry in high flow and flood flow conditions when the salt levels can meet the upper, middle and lower river salinity targets for the river. These targets are set at 600EC [a standard measure of salinity] above Denman and 900 EC below Denman and Singleton. “To ensure best practice of the scheme it is overseen by an independent advisory committee that also provides advice to the EPA on its ongoing operation. This committee includes representatives from industry, government and others with environmental interests.” Davis argued that coal mines use large volumes of water to wash the coal and if mining operations in the area increase, demand for water will increase and thus pose a threat to the river. The water that washes the coal is subsequently recycled and released into the river at government-specified high flow times which kills vital organisms that keep the river alive, Davis stated. “The pollution doesn’t just flow into the sea and disappear, it causes problems

Concerns were raised after Xstrata was granted permission to expand, which included approvals to discharge water into the Hunter river.

on its way and it doesn’t all flow out,” she said. BHP is one miner that has been working towards rehabilitating the river, its Hunter River Remediation project which forecast for

completion this year was reported to already be 90 per cent complete in June last year. The company has been removing and treating contaminated materials left be-

hind after the closure of its Mayfield site in Newcastle. Concerned Sandy Hollow resident Graham Roberts sees both sides of the argument and concedes it is going to be extremely dif-

The Hunter River flows into Newcastle, one of the world’s busiest coal ports.

ficult to find middle ground between agriculture and the mining sector. “It’s a hard one, the mining is short term, in comparison to agriculture,” he said. “A mine may have a lifespan of fifty years, agriculture has to be sustained longer then that.” Roberts’ property is located over the hills from Xstrata’s Mangoola coal mine, when asked about the mine’s proposed expansion Roberts was wary. “At the moment mines seem to be all powerful, there needs to be very stringent conditions.” “The valley at the moment looks like a moonscape.” “I’m all for jobs and sustained development but not at any cost.” In his forty years living in the Hunter Valley Roberts has noticed environmental changes in the area including increased amounts of dust and acidity in the air. He attributes this to the Wybong coal mine and the power stations.

www.miningaustralia.com.au

AustralianMining

March 2013

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MAINTENANCE & MONITORING

RETREADING the maintenance path Proper maintenance and retreading of tyres ensures longer equipment life.

t a time when reducing mine operating costs is a focus for many, extending the life of tyres and vehicles by keeping them operational is imperative. Having an independent tyre service provider with extensive contacts with the major manufacturers and suppliers in the global market is a distinct advantage. Especially seeing as demand for large mining tyres can fluctuate as quickly as commodity prices and they become increasingly harder to source. And with surging costs at the forefront of company’s minds, effective and reliable products which help protect the bottom line are being sought out now more than ever. The average mining haul truck tyre costs more than a Mercedes luxury car. Retreading existing tyres can provides a significant cost-effective alternative to buying new tyres, giving independent control over tyre supply. Studies have shown retread tyres can outperform comparable-cost new brands and compare favourably with premium brand tyres at a fraction of the cost.

With this in mind, Kal Tire Mining Group are servicing the mining sector by providing retread tyre solutions to meet the needs of all earthmover tyre uses in whatever environment the vehicle is working in, either in the more traditional ‘smooth and groove’ form or using state-of-the-art remould technology. Companies are able to maximise the efficiency of production with Kal Tires service, technology, repair and retreading expertise. In addition to providing economic value, retreaded tyres also promote an investment in the environment. Carbon emissions created during the retread process are much less than those associated with the production of new tyres and reuse tyres that most likely would have simply ended up either being buried as landfill on site or being burned surreptitiously. The company has invested heavily in world-class facilities, equipment and processes to ensure retreaded tyres are of the highest consistency and quality and have the appearance and integrity of new tyres offering an extended second life to premium tier tyres and reducing overall tyre operating costs.

The cost of a new mine haul truck tyre often tops that of a brand new luxury car.

March 2013

AustralianMining

Kal Tire Mining Group are a global leader in earthmoving and mining tyre supply and on-site service operates on over 150 sites, in 19 countries on five continents. With four new grab trucks and 24 service vehicles to be based in Perth, Kalgoorlie and Port Headland, Kal Tire Australia is one of the country’s fastest growing independent full-service tyre distributors. Existing facilities have also been upgraded providing customers with additional services including an earthmover repair facility as well as warehouse space that allows for greater inventory capacity. “Acquiring additional capacity, capability and knowledge

means we can provide our customers with more quality products and even better service than our current superior offering,” said managing director Graeme Manning. The company has made investments in infrastructure, facilities and personnel to ensure Australian customers are receiving quality products, durable enough to endure the country’s harsh conditions. Kal Tire is able to manage the supply chain from start to finish and the company is so confident in the service they offer, monthly KPIs are established and measured not only by the company itself, but also its customers. KPIs can include: safety performance, work scheduling, pressure maintenance, effectiveness of interaction with dispatch, tyre performance, and the implementation of continuous improvement initiatives. “Consistent improvement is part of Kal Tire’s culture,” Manning added. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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AM.MAR13.PG046.pdf

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MAINTENANCE & MONITORING

Pressing precision Heavy duty roll frames are aiding oversized equipment maintenance.

ith the majority of equipment on site bulky and oversized, repair is difficult at the best of times. And as precision and accuracy is required getting it right the first time counts. Having the proper equipment makes this job safer, quicker, and importantly easier. Enerpac has released a new rollframe hydraulic press to ensure awkwardly shaped heavy vehicle and conveyor components can be precisely positioned under a press so bearings and wear components can be safely and swiftly removed and replaced. The Enerpac 700 bar roll-frame press – available in 50-200 ton capacities – can be used to service bulky components from tractors, trucks, bulldozers, dumpsters, earthmovers and static and mobile materials handling equipment that would otherwise have to be extensively manhandled in a timeconsuming and potentially hazardous operation, A D _ which A M Pmight R I Malso A Rexpose _ 1 3 the . p component to damage.

Instead of having to haul components into place under a traditional press frame, operators of the IPR series roll-frame presses simply place workpieces on the press bed, roll the press’ mobile frame into position above them and lock it in place in the ideal position for work to commence. Compared with traditional fixed frame presses, operators of the rollframe types estimate they can save days of labour on major jobs, offer substantial cost-efficiencies to themselves and to customers as well as achieving their priority of safe working practices. Moving smoothly on bearings, it can be rolled aside while the workpiece is loaded onto the press bed. The hydraulic cylinder mounted on the cross-arm of the frame can also be moved from side-to-side to provide force precisely where it is needed. The press’ maximum gap (daylight) 1208mm and width (1222mm) mobile d isf ample P a for g ethe 1bulky 7 /items 0 2 of / 1 3 , 1 1 : 4 9 and static plant on which it is used.

SET TING THE STANDARDS WITH INNOVATIVE SAFE NS STORAGE SOLUTIO EFFECTIVE COMPLIANCE FOR THE MINING INDUSTRY '.1%#6#$.' $7.- 5614'5 #('6; %#$+0'65 #5 %;.+0&'4 5614'55 7$' 56#6+105 70&+0) #66'4; 5614#)' 7561/ &'5+)0 61 57+6 57+ 7+66 ;174 5+67#6+10 DESIGNED AND MANUFACTURED IN AUSTRALIA 1300 134 223 1300 307 895 5#.'5u5614'/#56#T%1/T#7 #7 7 999T5614'/#56#T%1/T#7 protecting the

March 2013

AustralianMining

The roll frame is available in 50 to 200 ton capacities.

One recent refitting workshop application – involving construction, resources industry other heavy equipment from around NSW – used the Enerpac equipment to precisely and powerfully press an extensive range of worn bearings out of their hubs. “The workshop handles all drive components, beginning at the torque converter, through to clutches and differentials – all the way to the rear wheels – the operators do final drives and wheel groups, brakes, and everything to do with hydraulics, pumps, valves and hydraulic cylinders,” Enerpac’s Tony Brooks said. Before introducing the Enerpac press, the workshop’s old H-frame press could not handle the big jobs, he said. “Jobs didn’t fit well. We had to hoist parts up with a fork lift and a crane, which was not efficient and not ideal.” Because optimum safety is a workplace priority, the customer involved reviewed Enerpac equipment being used for servicing by a major resources

site where it was being employed on one of the largest types of dumpsters in the Cat range, the 790 series. “The old way of doing things involved a lot more setup, manipulation and hazard. Lacking the tooling they needed to press wheel bearings out of the hubs, the old practices just weren’t feasible in the longer-term.” The precision press helps users maintain OEM standards, while cutting costs through shorter downtime, Brooks said. “One of the things customers like is that this very safe press is very simple in operation and doesn’t need any great knowledge to work it. It has a hand control and a pressure gauge, and the press rolls left and right, forwards and backwards. “Accessibility into the press is great, because you can you can put the job on the bed and then bring the press to it, rather than having to haul the workpiece under the press. You can get easy access between the press bed and the head itself – it has very good accessibility and it’s user-friendly.” www.miningaustralia.com.au

AM.MAR13.PG047.pdf

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MAINTENANCE & MONITORING

Remote access alleviates downtime New remote access programs allow for full machinery maintenance, regardless of their physical location.

any mines are located deep in Australia’s outback, where 24/7 Internet connectivity is the only way to connect to the outside world and for training, assistance, updates and maintenance services. As a result, mining operations in Australia and around the globe have turned to wireless technology to help alleviate operational and financial issues caused by machine breakdowns by streamlining communications and providing real-time telemetry to help identify and stop problems before they cause costly operational shutdowns and delays. ART’s remote access to its machines can alleviate operational and financial issues. ART sees the advantages of interactive networking with its CNC routers, plasma cutters and the new Metaltek modular multifunction CNC machining systems in three categories: before, during and after production AD _ A M F L or E operation. MA R _ 1 3 . p d Before jobs start, ART’s remote

access technology can provide job scheduling and production control. It can access tooling databases, verify CAD/CAM, or train operators. During machine operation, the direct connection to ART’s Brisbane headquarters can provide remote diagnostics and remote operation. Real-time monitoring of position, program and displays is possible from any PC on the network. Machine data can be efficiently gathered and remote monitoring at the management and supervisory level is also possible. After the job, ART can provide data for productivity analysis along with a permanent record of all machine data before, during and after job completion.

Serviceability

One area where the PC-based control is invaluable to remote mining operations is serviceability. Because so f much P a of g ethe 1machine’s 1 9 / 0functionality 2 / 1 3 , is determined by software – and be-

Protect the Tail Pulley,

Protect the Belt.

Remote machine access cuts CNC and welding issues.

cause that software is externally accessible via the internet – it becomes possible for troubleshooting diagnostics as well as software upgrades to be executed remotely. The diagnostics screen gives readouts on internal machine information. It displays gas selections, inlet pressures, flow settings, temperature Real English pop1 and 1 : coolant 0 6 A flow. M up messages and automatic tests help

The Heavy-Duty Floating Blade V-Plough is ideal for wide and high speed belt applications where belt damage can be critical to your operation. The twin poles prevent bouncing and keep rogue materials from rebounding over the plough and lodging between the return belt and the tail pulley resulting in damage to your conveyor belt. Stainless Steel model available with FRAS approved blade for use in underground mines.

Phone: 1300 098 435 Email: sales@ﬂexco.com.au

to verify correct operation. That’s allowing users to secure a significantly greater measure of ART’s repair and application support without the physical presence of a service technician. Combining remote PC-access software with multimedia capabilities, ART’s ProfileShop V3 touchscreen controller allows a service technician to examine virtually any aspect of control functionality.

Fail Safe Fixed Frame* prevents frame from potentially damaging belt – even as blades wear. * Patent pending

www.flexco.com www.miningaustralia.com.au 0213_AUSmng_hpHorz_Vplg.indd 1

AustralianMining

47 March 2/14/132013 9:13 AM

AM.MAR13.PG048.pdf

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PRODUCT FOCUS: PPVC

VORTEX pump heads New pump heads to handle acidic and caustic material.

anton have released a new thermoAll fluid-contact components of the plastic vortex pump head designed pump are available in abrasion-resistant to handle solid-laden acids and polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride caustic materials. (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl choride The company’s SGV Vortex Pump (CPVC) or polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), Head for vertical thermoplastic pumps is which are chemically inert to the corrosive able to handle fluids and slurries contain- fluids they are specified to handle, unlike ing stringy materials metallic components. or solids to 51 mm in The heavy-duty Its wetted components diameter. stainless steel shaft is Built with solid allows for the corrosionfully isolated from the thermoplastic construc- free, abrasion-resistant fluid by a thick-section of all its wetted handling of acids, tioned thermoplastic components allows for sleeve, eliminating metal caustics and a wide range contact with the pumped the corrosion-free, abrasion-resistant handling of solids-laden wastes fluid. of acids, caustics and a The company also wide range of solids-laden wastes at tem- offers horizontal centrifugal thermoplasperatures to 135°C. tics pumps with Vortex and other hydrauThe SGV pump head features a re- lic heads, as well as sealless peristaltic cessed, dynamically balanced clog-free pumps and integrated non-metallic tank/ impeller that allows solids to pass through pump systems for handling of corrosive the pump without blockage, and is of- treatment chemicals and collected wastes fered on Vanton SG Series sump pumps spanning the entire pH range with no corfor depths to 6.1 m, and SGK cantilevered rosion of the pump, and of ultrapure liqbearingless pumps uids A D _ A Mrun-dry MA X N O V _ 1 for 2 . depths p d f to Pa g e and 1 reagent 1 7 / 1 grade 0 / 1 chemicals 2 , 1 0 :with 1 4 noA MFeatures a dynamically balanced clog free impeller to allow solids to 1.2 m. contamination or ionisation of the fluid. pass through.

Employee Beneﬁts Asset Management

ATTRACTING, ENGAGING AND RETAINING SKILLED EMPLOYEES:

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Find out more, visit maxxia.com.au, or call us on 1300 728 801 to speak to a Maxxia representative in your state. Maxxia Pty Limited ABN 39 082 449 036 Authorised Representative (No. 278683) of McMillan Shakespeare Limited (AFSL No. 299054)

March 2013

AustralianMining

www.miningaustralia.com.au

UNM13793_AusMiningS.pdf

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

Mining operations depend on Lime. Which is why industry leaders get their Lime from Sibelco. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Quicklime, Hydrated Lime or one of many other limestone products you may require, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re getting quality, premium Lime. Choose Limil from one of the seven Sibelco plants around Australia and you can look forward to 135 years of Lime manufacturing expertise, the security of long-term supplies and a level of quality and consistency that our ISO9001:2008 Quality Program delivers. To find out more about Limil, Sibelco and our industry-leading products, visit www.sibelco.com.au

UNM13793

AM.MAR13.PG050.pdf

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PRODUCT FOCUS: PPVC

Cordless hydraulic pump EnErpac’s Xc series cordless pump combines the performance capabilities of an electric or pneumatic powered pump with the portability of a hand pump. suitable for remote locations, The hydraulic pump offers long it is designed to provide the speed, power and battery run time longevity of a corded pump. constructed of lightweight materials, it is equipped with a one-half horsepower motor and features 28-volt, Lithium-Ion battery technology. With its bladder reservoir, the pump is intended to eliminate venting and offer leak-free operation in any orientation. plus, the overall body, handle and trigger have been ergonomically engineered. It delivers oil flow of 2.05 litres per minute at its low-pressure setting and 0.25 litres per minute when operating at full pressure, up to 700bar (10,000 psi). safety features include overload protection circuitry, which safeguards both the pump and the operator from excessive amp draw or temperatures, and a trigger lock-off mechanism that protects against unintended operation during transport. • Enerpac 1300 198 007 www.enerpac.com/en-au

Precision air nozzles caa has released Exair’s newest air nozzle, one of the smallest air nozzles for precision blowoff. The new pico super air nozzle is 5mm in diameter and provides high level precision blowoff with a directed high velocity airflow. A blowing force of 141.7 grams (5 The nozzle projects 11mm past the mounting ounces) surface, permitting installation in tight spaces. High amplification of entrained airflow and a blowing force of 141.7 grams (5 ounces) are achieved with minimal air consumption of only 4.9 scFM at 80 psIG. • Compressed Air Australia 1300 787 688 www.caasafety.com.au

Turbo blower GE has released its new roots Turbo Blower into australia. Distributed by Hurll nu-Way, the low-maintenance roots Turbo Blower compressor offers an efficient aeration solution for various applications. available in units ranging from 22.5 kilowatts through to 300 kilowatts, as well as featuring oil-free bearing technology, the compressors produce low noise emissions of only around 75dBa. Its oil free lubrication means it can utilise a permanent Magnet synchronous Motor with next generation, bump type air bearings It also has free air delivery up to 31 000 m3/h; and working pressure from 0.3 bar to 1.8 bar to allow it to accurately meet compressed air demand. The compressor is a fully integrated system that is air cooled up to 112.5kW and closed loop liquid cooled from 150 kW and up. It is also maintenance free apart from filter media requiring scheduled replacement. • Hurll Nu-way 1300 556 380 www.hnw.com.au

March 2013

AustralianMining

Revised 2/2way plastic valve The valve is more compact than its THE Gemü 647 2/2-way plastic valve has been predecessor. revised and is now available as r647 with optimized body geometry. The valve is especially suited – like its predecessor – to use in dyeing plants, in automatic animal feeding installations or for use in the paper industry. In addition, the valve may be used wherever there is no need for a closing spring, or where the installation conditions require small components. One benefit of the new type is the similarly high Kv value with a smaller actuator size. The valve is therefore more compact than its predecessor. It can also be supplied in an intermediate size, the new diaphragm size 20. This new feature is intended to allow for additional space and cost savings in plastic piping systems. • Gemü Australia 1300 422 705 www.gemue.de

Buried service valve position indicators acrODynE has released the Trumbull buried service valve position indicators for 1-1/4inch square extended stems. The indicators are designed to eliminate broken valve stems caused by over-opening or over-closing of buried service valves. They do so by means of a visual indicator which displays valve position. They can be retrofitted to existing valves in the field. This can be done by a number of methods. There are three models available which allow maximum turns of 57, 275, and 870 respectively. all are field adjustable and there is an option of left or right closing valves. Because of their heavy-duty non-corrosive Dupont Delrin polymer, they offer high impact resistance even in cold climates. Their double O-ring seals keep out water and dirt and they are 3rd party tested to over a million revolutions. They come with stainless steel hardware. • Acrodyne 1300 026 316 www.acrodyne.com.au

Compressor air ends BOGE now produces the centrepiece of its over 22 kW models of screw compressors itself: the BOGE effilence air end will in future be built at the Großenhain site in saxony and brought onto the market with the new generation s-3 series. The new 5:6 screw profile of the rotors (five main rotor teeth and six secondary rotor teeth) makes for low differential pressure between the chambers and so a minimum loss of volume flow. The small radius of the secondary rotor teeth means that the blow hole is kept as small as possible, thus ensuring high air end efficiency. BOGE has reduced the speed of its air end by 20%, with a significant reduction in circumferential speeds. sound insulation starts at the source, resulting in extremely quiet operation. since the life of the bearing depends not only on its dimensions but also on the total number of revolutions it has notched up, compressed air users will benefit from the long service life of the air end. • BOGE Compressors (Australia) 03 5940 3266 www.boge.net.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

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MRC Offers the Following Products and Services in Australia

19 Service locations $80M Stockholding

MRO Solutions Project Supply Solutions Automation Solutions

Carbon & Stainless Duplex & Alloy

www.mrcglobal.com

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10th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards In this issue we have a brief word from some of the sponsors about their companies and why they choose to sponsor the Prospect Awards. SEW-Eurodrive

MMD

SEW-Eurodrive is proud to be sponsoring the Coal Mine of the year award at the 2012 Australian Mining Prospect Awards. As a key supplier to the coal mining industry, we believe in quality and efficiency when it comes to drive technology. Supplying a range of industrial gear units, motors and drives in sizes in excess of 1MW, we deliver more than just products to heavy industry. A team of talented engineers develop effective and timely solutions based on customers’ motion requirements, which are backed by aftersales commissioning and product support that is second to none. We also understand that time is money, so units are delivered within a matter of weeks from our local assembly plants, rather than waiting months for items to be shipped from overseas. The coal mining industry is one of Australia’s strongest assets – as the world’s greatest exporter of coal, we can be thankful for an industry that has given us global recognition. SEW-Eurodrive takes great pride in sponsoring the coal mine of the year award, which we hope in turn, encourages the organization in and industry which has greatly supported our company over time. We hope that this award goes to a fitting recipient to provide them with the acknowledgment they deserve for making such a strong contribution to Australian industry. SEW-Eurodrive looks forward to further ongoing partnerships with all forms of mining, now and into the future.

Mining Machinery Developments (MMD) designs and manufactures mineral sizing (crushing) equipment and services to the mining, metallurgical, industrial minerals, alumina and other industries. The core products; Mineral Sizers (crushers) and Feeders offer a solution to problems such as variable ore properties, product requirements, site conditions and environmental issues. Founded in 1978, to design and manufacture equipment for the UK underground coal mining industry, today MMD size over 60 different minerals world wide, in many varied process industries. MMD Sizing equipment is available for surface or underground installations, stationary or mobile, and for climatic conditions ranging from arctic to tropical. The MMD Sizer range now includes, primary, secondary and tertiary Sizers for wet and dry processing of metallic and non-metallic minerals for mining, industrial minerals and quarrying industries. To complement the robust Twin Shaft Mineral Sizer, MMD has designed and developed a range of heavy duty Apron Plate Feeders, which convey unbroken material to the crushing plant. Standard widths available are 1500, 2000, 3000 and 4000mm on D4, D7, D9 and D11 Caterpillar sealed and lubricated tractor chain. The mobile and semi-mobile sizer systems developed by MMD are both high in capacity and compact in size when compared to the traditional technology in this field. The latest range of MMD Mobile Sizers have the ability to offer mine operators unprecedented levels of productivity, and therefore very low operating costs per tonne. These energy efficient electrically driven “Green Mining Solutions” are all designed to assist mining companies to achieve the double bottom line of being both economic and environmentally friendly. MMD is proud to be the long running sponsor of the Australian Mine of the Year award.

Atlas Copco For over 130 years Atlas Copco has supplied the world with mining equipment, making it one of the most experienced suppliers in the industry. Since setting up shop in Kalgoorlie in the 1950s, Atlas Copco has learned from the very specific and in many ways original Australian mining methods, which differ from the rest of the world. On top of higher demands on people and equipment, conditions faced in Australia (especially water) are very often tougher than most. One of Atlas Copco’s highest priorities is reducing people’s exposure to the drilling process and to the hostile environment often found in underground mines. With our first experience in automation over a quarter of a century ago, and having spent the past 12 years refining our common rig automation platform RCS, the performance of Atlas Copco’s production drill rigs, RCS control system, rock drills, Cable bolting rigs and innovative braking system (SAHR) have set the standard in the industry for productivity and safety. The Prospect Awards recognise personal and company achievements, and they recognise the new benchmarks these create within the industry. As a company and as individuals, Atlas Copco and its staff are pleased to support this event the Contract Miner of the Year and Hard Rock Mine of the Year awards because we appreciate how hard it is to be at the frontier of mining.

March 2013

AustralianMining

Be a leader in Australia’s mining industry and nominate today

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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EXPLORATION

Where are Australia’s mines of TOMORROW? Mining Australia tomorrow begins with exploring Australia today. Alex Heber writes.

hat direction is Australia’s mining future headed? Australian exploration has slipped behind other global exploration destinations, a new report has found. Trends towards lower exploration activities has been blamed on decreasing discovery rates, a focus on brownfield exploration rather than greenfield operations, difficulty raising equity, and a shift to offshore projects. Australia’s share of global exploration for non-bulk commodities has almost halved from its peak of 21 per cent in 2002, coming in at 12 per cent in 2012; yet international competitors such as Canada have experienced increases in exploration activities of 4 per cent, rising from 14 per cent to 18 per cent over the same ten year period. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics Australian exploA D _ A MI E C MA R _ 1 3 . p d ration expenditure also fell during

March 2013

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the March 2012 quarter, across all The amount of drilling also fell states and all commodities. in 2012, particularly when it came Historically the March quarter has to “new deposits”, this is concerning been adversely affected by extreme because “if you don’t drill, you won’t weather conditions, but even account- discover”. ing for heavy rains in the country’s Reducing the rate of discovery north the figures still portray a general will gradually deplete the national downturn in exploration investment. mineral inventory, the report stated. According the report Where are Australia’s Mines of Tomorrow? Mining’s financial future commissioned by MinEx and the Uni- Another issue the report flagged was versity of Western Australia’s Centre the difficulty juniors are having raisfor Exploration Targeting, [CET] a ing finance. “Given that juniors now account significant contraction in the exploration sector “will have a material im- for over half of all the exploration pact on employment and service pro- spend in Australia, difficulties in raising finance will directly translate into viders in the broader economy”. While the research found that reduced exploration activity particuoriginal exploration expenditure re- larly greenfield exploration,” the rebounded in the June 2012 quarter, search stated. Sucking up funds in recent years when seasonably adjusted, the declining trend continued with an overall fall has been the GFC, European instaof 4.9 per cent “largely attributable to bility, and concerns around Chinese Queensland (12.6%) and to a lesser growth and how that affects the def Pa ge 1 2 0 / 0 2 / 1 3 , 4 : 2 1 PM mand for Australian metals. degree Western Australia (1.6%)”.

In 2011 the amount raised by small cap IPOs on the ASX increased by 10 per cent to 98 listings, 78 of them were from junior mining companies. The report found that the average level of funds raised by small caps was at its lowest level in five years, sitting at $6.8 million. Late last year Grant Thornton released its annual JUMEX report which examines junior mining and exploration companies with a market cap of less than $500 million. The JUMEX report found junior miners and explorers were facing a number of constraints, including the availability and instability of equity capital, market volatility, and government red tape and policy with the introduction of the carbon tax and MRRT. Gooley said the availability and difficulty of sourcing funding are major challenges with 68 per cent of companies’ surveyed saying they expect to

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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EXPLORATION

raise capital in the next 12 months. “It’s very challenging conditions and has been for the last 12 months, we don’t see that dramatically changing in the next 12 months, given where we are in terms of the market. “The underlying message is that companies need to focus on the opportunities in the market, there’s going to be a lot of corporate action, a lot of acquisition opportunities, and there are still a lot of opportunities out there,” Gooley said. Murray Hutton, technical manager at Geos Mining stated that most juniors are struggling for funding at the moment and that “reports of short term doom and gloom lose sight of the bigger picture”. “Many [juniors] have very good exploration projects, but the general feeling is that ‘we can’t hope to get funding in this market’ and so they have been forced to look overseas for investors,” Hutton said. As mining investor confidence shrinks those who need a strong financial backing, explorers and junior miners – those willing to go out and uncover the new prospects and mining regions, are now unable to achieve this. Only recently mining junior Gold Road Resources uncovered what may be a completely new gold bearing region in Western Australia, the Yarmana greenstone belt, yet if the situation proceeds it is unlikely we will be seeing another discovery like Gold Road any time soon. This was supported by the Queensland Resources Council which stated that “history has shown that the small explorers are the best at making discoveries, the best at juggling the risks. They have the best track record of delivering discoveries of new deposits”. With the likelihood that unfavourable market conditions will continue into the mid term future remains high, the CET report predicts exploration companies will revert to a cash conservation mode which will cause exploration activities to experience contraction.

Australian exploration has fallen to 12% while Canada’s has risen to 18%.

will be exhausted in between 7 and 18 years,” the report stated. Add to this the fact that on average it takes abut seven years to move a project from discovery to operation and it becomes clear why it is important to continuously build up a strong pipeline of projects in order to sustain a successful mining sector in Australia. The research shows Australia’s mineral exploration industry is facing increasing technical and financial pressures and attractive conditions in overseas exploration areas like Africa, Canada and parts of South America are heightening the financial strain as exploration budgets are repeatedly being diverted away from Australia, the report found. What is interesting to see is the fast and large increase of iron ore exploration expenditure, growing from about 9 per cent in 2000 to approximately 52 per cent of Australia’s total exploration expenditure in 2012. Mining service providers have been kept busy by the growth of iron ore mining and looking ahead their future is largely driven by the health of the bulk mineral sector. According to the report, exploration expenditure in Australia

reached its peak in the December 2011 quarter and is now in a period of contraction. This downward trend has been attributed to the maturing of Australia’s mining sector which has made discovery increasingly difficult, especially in comparison to less mature regions like Africa, South America and parts of Asia. But while Australia does have a good track record for moderate and major mineral discoveries; such discoveries are becoming more expensive. In the last ten years the proportion of Australian exploration companies’ funds invested domestically has fallen from an estimated 62 per cent to 51 per cent, and according to CET research this trend is tipped to continue. As the number of historically known deposits are mined, ore body grades decline, and commodity prices slide and stabilise at lower levels we need explorers willing to take the risks and enter unknown regions to uncover new deposits.

Drilling and the future of mining

When looking at exploration trends,

Greenfield vs Brownfield

A shift away from greenfield to brownfield exploration is also evident, particularly for bulk commodities like iron ore, copper and coal. While this strategy may be profitable in the short term, it is a worrying long term plan, especially as resource depletion sets in. “It is estimated that in the absence of new discoveries and mine extensions, based on current reserve and resources, about half of Australia’s non-bulk commodities mines www.miningaustralia.com.au

A lack of confidence in investment is making it hard for junior operations to grow.

drilling is an important measure to analyse, as drilling is fundamental to the discovery of new resources. The report found that Australian exploration is still conducted at relatively shallow depths which is a concern for future mining as search space is further depleted. According to figures released by the ABS in March 2012 the total 2.272 million metres actually drilled during the quarter (equal to 9.088 million metres on an annual basis) represent a 23.1 per cent decrease when compared to the December 2011 quarter. Drilling juggernaut Boat Longyear supported the data, reporting that while its drill rig utilisation remained steady its products order backlog for drilling consumables (which are sold to the general exploration industry) peaked in July 2011 and experienced a 30 per cent fall in the June 2012 quarter alone.

Creating a sustainable future

Although current reserves and resources in Australia are healthy, for the mining industry to sustainably carry on into the future new mineral discoveries, at a minimum, need to cover what is being extracted. To a certain extent greenfield exploration is the key here as brownfield operations can only reinvigorate existing areas for so long; they will eventually run out, the report stated. But as Australia’s mining sector matures greenfield discoveries will also inevitably decline, becoming smaller and of lower grades. Either way, the decisions that are made, or not made now will affect the future success of Australia’s mining sector. It’s really is either boom or bust. “There is no room for complacency,” the report concludes. In other words, mining is in flux. We have witnessed what may be the last great commodity boom for decades; the implementation of multiple mining taxes at federal and state levels; and a massive culling of mining CEOs over the last year, including Anglo American, Rio Tinto, and recently BHP Billiton, which has now seen Australians installed at the helm of two of the largest mining houses in the world. Australia’s mining future is being shackled by poor governmental decisions and unless support is provided – both in terms of approvals as well as to a degree monetarily, then our mining future is at risk. Confidence needs to be brought back to the mining sector, and with that confidence comes investment and future growth. AustralianMining

March 2013

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Chinese dump trucks cHIna-based Xiangtan electric Manufacturing corporation (XeMc) has recently shipped four of its SF33901 mine dump trucks to the Pilbara for use at rio Tinto’s Mount Tom Price site. The 230 tonne dump trucks are powered by the MTU 16V 4000 c11 mining engine provided to XeMc by engine building business MTU Hong Kong, a subsidiary of germany based Tognum group. “This world-class propulsion package was specifically requested by rio Tinto for its iron ore mining operations in the Pilbara because of its best-in-class fuel efficiency and great reliability,” MTU stated. The MTU 16V 4000 c11 mining engine produces 2300 bhp (1,715 kW), and is built to withstand the harshest of mining conditions in order to operate reliably and efficiently. The engines incorporate common rail fuel injection, double-walled fuel lines, carbon scraper pistons and oil system security filters. In addition, they are enhanced by an efficient oil cooling system, which optimises oil temperature. “The working conditions in the Pilbara may be the toughest in the world, with extremely high temperatures and a challenging natural environment,” said neil coney, general manager for Fleet Strategy and Delivery, rio Tinto. The quick delivery of the trucks left a lasting impression on coney. “obviously, the trucks we use on site must be able to withstand such harsh conditions and deliver the best fuel economy possible. Because our reliability and fuel economy standards are very high, we insisted on the MTU Series 4000 engine for each truck. It was amazing to see XeMc produce four trucks that can meet our strict requirements within one year,” he said. Scott Woodruff, director of global mining sales at Tognum america explained that it is important companies like rio and Tognum continue their work together into the future to develop the best suited machinery possible. “as mine operators continue to tackle the issue of rising fuel costs, we continue to work with our oeM partners to deliver the most robust and efficient mining equipment available,” Woodruff said. “our focus on customer requirements enables us to provide MTU mining engines that perform at the highest level in any environment.” The MTU engines in rio Tinto’s new XeMc mine trucks will be serviced by MTU Detroit Diesel australia, the exclusive distributor and service provider of MTU engines in australia. • XMEC www.xeico.com A D _ A ML I N MA R _ 1 3 . p d f Pa ge 1 1 2 / 0 2 / 1 3 ,

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March 2013

AustralianMining

E & OE

Durable, eco friendly roof support with easy locking timbers.

Underground roof supports IncreaSIng safety in underground mining is paramount. Since the mid ’90s resources Timber has focussed on improving roof support products in mine shafts. Technological advancements have assisted the company’s strategy, with the launch of the patent pending rhinoloc. rhinoloc has been designed in australia to provide a strong, durable connection between the need 3 : timber, 5 2 : eliminating 3 5 PM A Efor D bolts, T fixings or fasteners. Holes are precisely machined into the timber during manufacturing so rhinoloc can be easily inserted and securely locked into place. Using an interlocking system, rhinoloc is capable of any configuration including square, rectangle or triangle. When roof supports are fashioned in a triangle shape rhinoloc uses 25 per cent less timber which saves labour time and money, and doesn’t compromise on safety in any way. Boasting 100 per cent contact, rhinoloc maximises load bearing capacity. rhinoloc is an eco-friendly, high performance roof support solution. • Rhinoloc www.rhinoloc.com

Electronic stethoscopes SoS Tools presents a range of 4-channel and 6-channel chassis electronic stethoscopes designed to listen to four or six different under-chassis locations respectively in a single road test. The chassis electronic stethoscopes can be used to listen to noises that cannot be duplicated in the workshop. Professional headphones supplied with the kit shut out the ambient sound. The stethoscopes come with four or six colour coded sensitive microphone clamps for attaching to the problem area. Wire sensor leads measuring 16 feet can reach all vehicle locations. The sensors can be clamped on various vehicle parts and components. The 4-channel chassis electronic stethoscope comes with four sensor clamp attachments with sensor leads, and electronic stethoscope with channel selector and headphones, all supplied in a blow mould case. The 6-channel chassis electronic stethoscope includes six sensor clamp attachments with sensor leads, and electronic stethoscope with channel selector and headphones, all supplied in a blow mould case. • SoS Tools 1300 173 301 sostools.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

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Sand-less sand bags FoLLowing the recent devastating floods in Queensland HAZiBAg will launch the brand new Barrier Sack, a self inflating sand-less â&#x20AC;&#x153;sand bagâ&#x20AC;?. The Barrier Sack enables quick preparation for flash flooding and water burst incidents. it stores flat and when it is needed can be inflated using water, expanding in just a few minutes to weigh more than 23 kilograms. Made from 100 per cent biodegradable materials the Barrier Sack is a safe and affordable way to protect property, people and businesses from damaging water. â&#x20AC;˘ Hazibag 0404 453 579 www.barriersack.com.au

Fitted with 550 litre fuel tanks.

Exploration camp generator PR Power have designed a generator power system utilising two 100kVA prime powered generators (Model PR110P-SAE) for containerised mining exploration camps. The PR110P-SAE gensets are mounted on a common skid base complete with a 4,500L bulk fuel tank and all necessary power connection points including an automatic transfer switch (ATS). Both generators are also fitted with three way fuel valves, so that they can operate from their own fuel tanks within the generator enclosures. The PR110-SAE generatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s are designed with 550L fuel tanks (fully bunded for environmental protection), that can be used as an emergency reserve, providing up to 38 hours run time. This will ensure that in the event of the fuel supply not being able to get to the camp in time as a result of an unforseen event such as flooding, the camp would have an additional two and a half days of emergency fuel supply. Designed so one generator will be the primary power supply, receiving its fuel from the bulk tank, while the second unit would act as a back-up power source during servicing or if the first genset was to fail the generators would ensure up to 10 days of continuous, uninterrupted power between refuelling in essence supplying power continuously 24/7. The changeover from the primary generator to the secondary is all done automatically without any human intervention ensuring a seamless process. Provisions were also made for the main camp distribution board to be mounted on the unit to make connection quicker & easier each time. Additional benefits of the generator include the dimensions of the skid base (10.6m long and 2m wide) making it easy to transport and removing the need for cranes during the relocation. Servicing can be performed quickly and efficiently as a result of gantries fixed around the generators. â&#x20AC;˘ PR Power 1300 399 499 sales@prpower.com www.prpower.com www.miningaustralia.com.au

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NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN Nominations are now open for the 10th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards, to be held in Sydney on Thursday 31st October 2013. Fifteen awards will be up for grabs on the night, where we recognise and celebrate innovation and performance within the mining industry. All ďŹ nalists will receive free publicity in the Australian Mining magazine and two free tickets to the gala dinner where the winners will be announced.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT www.miningaustralia.com.au/awards

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The cranes featured simultaneous actuation and movement.

Synchronised crane drives Modular Cranes Pty ltd, a Melbourne-based crane manufacturer, were presented with an unusual problem to solve for one of their customers. Modular’s customer, a heavy truck trailer manufacturer, already had two 22-metre-wide overhead cranes installed in their factory which ran on the same set of rails. Each of the cranes was rated at 12.5 tonnes and had given reliable service for many years. They were identical in their specification, and were synchronised with both their slow and fast speeds, as well as the elapsed distance they travelled to slow down and stop. The customer’s new production process now required that a third crane was included on the same set of rails to move very long, heavy trailers along the factory, with the load shared between two of the cranes at any one time. The cranes would be actuated simultaneously, as required, using a wireless handheld remote control. Modular Cranes sought the expertise of Nord drivesystems, the German Helical geared motor and frequency inverter manufacturer, for the two travel drive Helical geared brake motors on the new crane. To solve the synchronisation problem, Nord drivesystems’ de-centralised frequency inverter technology was also employed. To further enhance the economy requirement, Nord drivesytems proposed a conventional 4 pole electric motor with a 10Nm electromagnetic brake mounted to each of the NordBloc.1 series inline Helical geared brake motors. The Nord SK205E series de-centralised frequency inverter was also included, complete with internal 24 Volt power supply cartridge, and an external brake resister to accommodate the re-generative current produced by the cranes’ weight when slowing to a stop. The high-precision accuracy of the Nord Helical gear set and the flexibility of the de-centralised frequency inverter software allowed this new crane to be synchronised with the existing cranes, without the requirement of rotary encoders. • Nord 1300 006 673 www.nord.com

Permanent machine protection made easy Provides permanent online monitoring of the overall vibration condition of machines and equipment according to DIN ISO 10816. Easy set-up and operating, and protection against tampering. Completely battery powered, the vests can be seen up to 300 metres away.

Hi-vis LED vests oNE of the easiest ways to stay safe on in dark or high traffic areas is to remain highly visible, australian company rooBuCK have caught onto this idea and will be releasing an australian certified lEd safety vest. The new design incorporates lEd lights which are embedded within the vest to act as a highly visible warning and to allow the wearer to remain seen at all times no matter the ambient light conditions on site. Battery powered, the vest is easy to operate and can be seen even in complete darkness for up to 300 metres. • Roobuck 02 9938 1550 www.roobuck.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

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MINING JOBS

To see the latest jobs available visit www.miningaustralia.com.au, which is updated daily. Human ResouRces advisoR An exciting opportunity exists for an experienced Human Resources Advisor based at our Dugald Mine. Reporting to the Human Resources Superintendent, you will develop and implement human resource strategies and human resources processes and systems for Dugald River Mine that improves the involvement, commitment and performance of its employees to support the overall Company direction. As a successful incumbent, you will support and advice to ensure that managers, superintendents and supervisors are capable of performing their ‘people’ responsibilities and that all employees are informed of their rights and obligations under legislation and MMG’s human resource policies. Important to the role will be your ability to think strategically and express ideas, providing accurate and timely advice on range of issues such as HR policies and procedures, employment legislation, recruitment, performance and workforce planning. Ideally you will have well developed time and project management skills with an outcome focussed attitude. You will have demonstrated experience in a similar role within a mining or heavy engineering area with tertiary qualification in HR/ER/IR or business related field. To further your success to the role, you will have a high level communication, interpersonal, influencing and negotiation skills, successfully managing cross cultural relationships, driving performance and a strong consultative approach. This role will operate on an 8/6 FIFO roster from Townsville or Brisbane. To start your career journey with mmG, submit your application online in either Word (.doc) or adobe (.pdf) format before the closing date of Friday, 1st march, 2013 by clicking on the ‘apply’ button or visiting the job search page of our website http://careers.mmg.com/ jobsearch.asp?stp=aW&sLanguage=en mine TecHnician Reporting to the Senior Mine Geologist, you will support the mining team specialists in the accurate gathering of all associated data, data transfer and data formatting to maximize ore recovery minimise dilution of ore and to increase the mineable resource. This will include providing practical field assistance for Mine Geology and Geotechnical activities. You will deliver a high standard of service to other departments at Century Mine, including Mine Operations. As a Mine Technician, you will carry out geophysical probing of blast patterns and ensure geophysical equipment is maintained and in good condition. You will handle and process drill core and oversee preparation of drill sites. You will assist in the collection of geological data and subsequent data entry. As a successful incumbent you will possess the following skills and attributes: • An unwavering commitment to workplace safety • Basic mining knowledge • Experience working as a technician involved in grade control and drilling activities with respect to open cut mining and exploration • Current drivers licence This role will operate on an 8/6 roster, FIFO from Cairns, Townsville or Mount Isa. To start your career journey with mmG, submit your application online in either Word (.doc) or adobe (.pdf) format before the closing date of Friday 8thFebruary, 2013 by clicking on the ‘apply’ button or visiting the job search page of our website. http://careers.mmg.com/ jobsearch.asp?stp=aW&sLanguage=en. senioR HR advisoR We are seeking an experience Senior HR Advisor to work within our Newcastle office. The main function of your role will be to provide advice and to support all key activities of Regional HR Advisors/Managers and Line Managers within New South Wales and New Zealand, enabling customers to enhance key workplace relations and productivity. To ensure your success, you will have the ability to provide consistent functional excellence in facilitating the achievement of Orica’s business goals and HR strategy through execution of expert HR, ER and IR coaching, advice and support to all regional functions. Effective management of a number of key HR processes and reporting requirements for the business on an annual and ad hoc basis as well as managing output of the HR support function and the day to day relationship with the corporate HR Services team will also be critical. The criteria Strong knowledge of industrial environment and prior experience providing guidance within a unionised workforce – Strong communication, negotiation, collaboration and influencing skills – Working knowledge of relevant employment legislation, law and awards – Change management skills – Strong administration and organisation skills – Strong customer service skills – Ability to work autonomously and as a virtual team What we offer To ensure that we attract and retain the best people we offer: The opportunities Facilities and environment associated with working in an international organisation – Career paths that are totally flexible allowing you to specialise or become a generalist – A diverse workplace where your unique abilities and talents will be recognised and encouraged – Training programs, opportunities and initiatives to ensure your continued growth. competitive salary packages Please apply via the link or for a confidential discussion contact Kylie Williams on 13004oRica QuaRRies and consTRucTions Lead – cannon HiLL Orica is a great place to work. We have strong values and do not rest on past successes. We always strive to do better. We recognise that to achieve this we not only need the best products and services, but also the best people At Orica, we’re committed to developing tomorrow’s technologies and solving today’s challenges for our customers. We have a proud tradition of leadership, innovation, quality and safety.

March 2013

AustralianMining

Orica is a truly global company with a diverse workforce of over 15,000 people that originate from more than 130 nationalities. Orica is the world’s largest provider of commercial explosives and blasting systems, delivering innovative solutions to the open cut and underground mining, quarry, civil construction, tunnelling and oil and gas markets. The Role Based in Cannon Hill and reporting to the Quarry and Construction Australia Manager, your main function will be to manage the sustainable profitability of the Queensland Quarry business as well as achieve agreed objectives and maintain world’s best practice business through direct accountability for Commercial and indirect accountability for Commercial and indirect operational and technical involvement and strategically influencing. The medium term goal is to maintain market share and develop Niche businesses. Across the region you will also be accountable for planning and delivering the Quarry business Model as well as all Business Development, Commercial and Operational functions & outcomes and will assist in the areas of recruitment and performance management of the team. The criteria Coupled with Tertiary qualifications in either Sales or Marketing and an operational background, you will also have extensive line management experience in a variety of roles and environments. A sound level of experience in explosives or mining related businesses will also be required. Strong Leadership and general management skills are essential. You will therefore possess skills in business, people, operations, finance, asset management, and explosives regulations. In addition competency in regional politics, financial planning, corporate governance and capital management is mandatory. As the successful incumbent an ability to plan and deliver on the regional strategic plan and a high degree of influencing will be critical to successfully lead a dynamic team to achieve the company’s objectives. What we offer To ensure that we attract and retain the best people we offer: • The opportunities, facilities and environment associated with working in an international organisation • Career paths that are totally flexible allowing you to specialise or become a generalist • A diverse workplace where your unique abilities and talents will be recognised and encouraged • Training programs, opportunities and initiatives to ensure your continued growth • Competitive salary packages Please apply via the link or for a confidential discussion contact Kylie Williams on 13004oRica. GeoTecHnicaL enGineeRinG sPeciaLisT We now have a great career opportunity available for a Geotechnical Engineering Specialist to capitalise on their operational mine site experience and deliver excellent results. This role forms a key part of our Technical Services Group. This group covers Geotechnical/Mining/ Water, Geology/Resources, Metallurgy and Technology and has a mandate to significantly add value to these disciplines by driving long-term strategic planning within Life-of-Asset planning. Operating as our subject expert you will provide direct strategic and tactical support to our operating sites, with a focus on geotechnical aspects of mine planning and operations. Your key areas of accountability include: • Working closely with site based mining and geotechnical teams to provide high level analysis and advice to sites • Identifying any value-add opportunities in operating practices and plans • Highlighting any value-risk practices, propose alternative practices, and initiate corrective action projects • Reviewing and updating MMG geotechnical guidelines and standards • Ensuring that Life of Mine Plans have a suitable geotechnical risk and design review section prepared according to MMG’s guidelines • Mentoring less experienced Engineers and assisting them to develop their knowledge and capability • Driving continuous technical improvement through all sites. • Possessing a relevant post-graduate level tertiary qualification, you also have substantial geotechnical experience with both underground and open pit metalliferous mines. You have a thorough knowledge of the regulatory environment and how government bodies address geotechnical issues. As someone who is passionate about their field you enjoy mentoring others and sharing your wealth of knowledge and experience. • Regular domestic and international travel is a key requirement to this role. This is your opportunity to get out from behind the desk and work closely with our sites and support functions to drive projects, and add value to the organisation. Remuneration will be commensurate with experience and the current market rate. An attractive incentive scheme is also available to the right person. Located in the heart of Southbank, the office is easily accessible and central to a variety of amenities. senioR oH&s advisoR Fenner Dunlop is firmly cemented as the world leader in providing Engineered Conveyor Solutions for mining and industrial applications. Marketed globally and representing a comprehensive range of products and services, Fenner Dunlop has over 16 national branches with 3 manufacturing plants which offer services from the design and supply, technical support, 24 hour site service, installation maintenance and diagnostics services supported by our own regionally focused service network which sets us apart on the world stage. Due to growth in the organisation we have an excellent opportunity for an experienced Senior OH&S Advisor. You will be responsible for driving OHS best practice and be the primary contact in the Western Region. You will support the business by reporting, analysing and recommending improvements to help framework zero injuries and harm. Critical to this is the introduction of strategic www.miningaustralia.com.au

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To advertise a new job contact Hussein Azzan at 02 9422 2851 objectives around safety and building of relationships with key stakeholders within our branches and sites. Reporting to the National OHS Manager this role is also accountable for mentoring and leading OHS Advisors. You will be coaching and mentoring to line supervision, general workforce and management at the Kwinana Manufacturing Site. This position will see you mentor and lead your TEAM ensuring they are aware of their role and responsibilities around safety. You will manage OHS administration including leading investigations, injury/risk management, policies, procedures in-line with compliance with government regulations, including completing regular risk assessments and audits. You need to have a high level strategic focus that is complimented with a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hands on approachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to the operational requirements of the business. Key responsibilities include: â&#x20AC;˘ Providing leadership and developing highly motivated and competent TEAMs â&#x20AC;˘ Developing and maintaining HSE standards in the Kwinana Manufacturing Branch and WA region â&#x20AC;˘ Building relationships with key stakeholders â&#x20AC;˘ Responsible for administering the corporate governance requirements to develop a world class safety culture â&#x20AC;˘ Determining procedures and ensuring best practice is followed â&#x20AC;˘ Lead inspections, investigations, auditing and compliance reporting â&#x20AC;˘ Provide advice and coaching to all levels of staff on OHS To be successful in this role you will have: â&#x20AC;˘ Proven knowledge of AS/NZ 4801, AS/NZ 14001 and ISO 31000 â&#x20AC;˘ Experience in Manufacturing or Mining industry is a requirement for this role â&#x20AC;˘ Cert IV Training/Diploma in Occupational Health & Safety â&#x20AC;˘ Proven management experience in a similar role â&#x20AC;˘ Knowledge of behavioural based safety systems â&#x20AC;˘ Well developed personal approach to safety and leadership â&#x20AC;˘ Maintain knowledge of applicable legislation, standard and polices â&#x20AC;˘ Excellent communication skills around stakeholder management and customer service â&#x20AC;˘ Must have ability to travel to various company branches and project site locations in WA (Australian drivers license essential) On offer is an exciting position on a residential basis, it will be a challenging but rewarding opportunity and you will work with a dynamic team across the western region. We offer recognition, progression and extensive benefits that our organisation is known for. If you have experience in a similar role and would like to express your interest in this career defining role please apply today or for further information please call 1800 689 629. SpecIalISt â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SourcIng Energy Resources of Australia are offering a suitably qualified and experienced person a fantastic opportunity to make a difference. As our Sourcing Specialist your primary duties in this role is to provide sourcing support for capital projects and a wide range of other goods and services by proactively engaging with the stakeholders to develop sustainable sourcing strategies to deliver optimal value to ERA. This role will involve delivering service in tight timeframes in a challenging and demanding environment. Some of the duties of the role include but are not limited to: SOURCING â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Procure a wide range of goods and services for delivery to site on time and at the best possible value by â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Analysis and selection of alternative supplier options, Procuring goods/services at best commercial value, Managing supplier delivery performance including expediting TENDER AND CONTRACT DEVELOPMENT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; You will be responsible for source of contract tender design, document development, evaluation, and contract negotiation/implementation, Ensure compliance with procurement metrics like cycle time, contract expiry/renewal etc are met CUSTOMER SERVICE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; You will be responsible for establishing and managing positive relations with critical suppliers and developing key relationships with industry groups to the benefit of ERA operations, Collaborate with internal customers in operations and maintenance to meet their needs to satisfaction. PLANNING â&#x20AC;&#x201C; In conjunction with team leader assist with the development of the annual sourcing plan to support the goals of the business unit, Participate in the development and implementation of improvement projects and initiatives, Provide analytical support to site in conjunction with trials of alternative products, Actively work with Emerging Market team to review sourcing opportunities To be successful in the role you will need to possess a Degree in Business, Commerce, Engineering or Supply Chain. Your relevant experiences should be â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;˘ At least 5 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in a strategic procurement role preferably within the mining or heavy engineering industry â&#x20AC;˘ High value Capital equipment procurement experience â&#x20AC;˘ Minimum 5 years end to end experience in scope of work development, sourcing, negotiation and development of contracts â&#x20AC;˘ A Strong understanding of Contracts â&#x20AC;˘ SAP experience would be highly advantageous â&#x20AC;˘ Highly developed negotiation skills â&#x20AC;˘ Strong verbal and written communication skills The role offers the opportunity to progress your career as an Sourcing Specialist within the Mining Industry. Working with a supportive team and alongside the some of the best in the business, the learning opportunities are endless. The role is Darwin based but you will be required to travel to the mine site on a regular basis. In return for your commitment you will be rewarded with an attractive salary package commensurate to your experience and be eligible for a wide range of benefits that Rio Tinto offer their employees. Working in a dynamic team and friendly culture, in a business renowned for its world class safety standard this is an opportunity not to be missed. Your application should include an up to date cV and a covering letter outlining your skills and experiences related to the role. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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AustralianMining

March 2013

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EVENTS

Conferences, seminars & workshops Event submissions can be emailed to editor@miningaustralia.com.au LESANZ 2013: Resourcing the future

Australian Mining Safety Conference

14-16 March Brisbane

1 May Stamford Hotel, Brisbane

Through the exploration of how intellectual property, innovation, and licensing are contributing to the resources boom the conference aims to assist delegates develop a profitable and sustainable future. Boasting an impressive list of Australian and international speakers, extensive debate is expected to take place surrounding both issues and current practices influencing intellectual property and resourcing in Australia and New Zealand. • LESANZ 1800 193 405 lesanz@tcc.co.nz www.lesanzconference.org.au

Hot on the heels of its successful conference in Perth, Australian Mining will be holding its second mining safety conference in Brisbane. The event aims to bring together mine safety professional who focus not only on site OH&S nut also general work health and well being. It covers the gamut from safety in underground mining, automation safety, safe practices and technology in drilling and blasting, and issues affecting worker mental health. To find out more about the event and how you can be a part of it, contact us today. • Australian Mining 02 9422 2352 editor@miningaustralia.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

Practical Belt Conveying 18 March-7 November

services, the performance of their existing solution providers and they benchmark their challenges with their peers; 2. Managing KPIs – The delegates return to their offices having identified how to manage their KPIs more effectively. They learn from industry leader who can inspire ideas for their own organisation; 3. Time Efficiency – In just 2 days they get exposed to solutions and services from providers such as you, who are briefed on their needs and challenges and already have the background information. The carefully scheduled one-on-one meetings go straight to the point; After the summit, the document is an incredibly powerful tool for our delegation: something they keep referring to as they seek to implement the game-changing discussions. • GDS International www.ngminingau.com

Four day training course with a Austmine 2013 strong practical bias for engineers NG Mining Summit 20-23 May involved with the design or Australia 2013 Perth Convention Centre, maintenance of high capacity belt 7-9 May conveyor systems for the mining or Perth related industries. In 2013, Austmine and Mining Rendevous Hotel, Perth Over 1200 engineers have now IQ will be partnering to produce The NG Mining Australia Summit will attended one of these courses. the Austmine 2013 International bring together decision makers from The event is typically held with a Conference & Exhibition. across Australia and investors from small class size, while a 300 page The event will be hosted in Perth, neighbouring regions to meet with manual is provided. on the 20 - 23 May and will draw top solution providers committed to The event will be held on: together an audience of international maintaining Australia’s competitive 18-21 March, at the Hotel Grand mining executives. position in mining. Chancellor, Brisbane The theme for 2013 is Australian The NG Mining Australia Summit 19-22 August, at the Hotel Grand Technology: Inspiring Global Mining will provide a vital means of Chancellor, Brisbane Innovation. Specific topics that will communication and an ideal 4-7 November, at the Hotel Grand be explored include emerging mining framework for new business Chancellor, Brisbane markets, technological innovations relationships to flourish. • Tech training and operational excellence, Attending this event means: ann.odonovan@techtraining. creating global supply chains, and 1. Competitive Advantage – Our A D _ A M A E V M A R _ 1 3 delegates . p d f takePaway a g benchmarking e 1 1 9 / 0workforce 2 / 1 3 , The 1 0Austmine : 4 7 AM com.au safety. www.techtraining.com.au 2013 International Conference and information, comparing their

CENTRAL QUEENSLAND TRANSPORT TRADES AND MINING EXPO

Exhibition will showcase Australia’s leading mining equipment, technology and service providers. The exhibition hall will give you direct access to leaders in the field of mining technology that can assist you in your own mining operations. The conference will feature an expert international speaker panel, including presentations delivered by Rio Tinto’s Manager of Innovation – John McGagh, and international representative Dr. Shane Hodgson, Vice President and Group Head of Organisational Effectiveness, Gold Fields. • Austmine 02 9229 1000 austmine2013@iqpc.com.au www.austmine2013.com

one over a range of important issues currently facing the industry. The current challenges and opportunities will be highlighted through visionary keynote presentations; roundtable sessions, interactive workshops, panel discussions, think tank sessions delivered by your most esteemed peers and thought leaders in the mining community. The one-to-one meetings with leading solution providers will also provide you with a wealth of expertise, while the informal networking opportunities, gala dinners and leisure activities create a unique interactive forum. • Media Corp International www.cooleaders.com.au

COO Leaders Mining Summit 2013

AIMEX

23-23 July Crown Metropol, Perth In 2012, much importance has grown in the mining sector over the BOOM, DOOM, GLOOM; so which is true? Recent industry reports show mining growth has increased by 11.9% annually which equates revenue to 13 billion. “Is this the peak before it crashes?” is the question that haunts every COO in the mining industry. With rising operational costs and falling commodities, the constant need to reduce overheads, generate growth, watch performance and increase operational effectiveness has become the key priority for COOs today. The COO Leaders Mining Summit is Australia’s ONLY event designed speciﬁcally for COO leaders from within Australia’s major Mining companies to discuss and interact as

20-23 August Sydney Showground, Sydney Now held once every two years and firmly established on the international mining calendar, AIMEX is the flagship event within the portfolio of established industrial trade fairs staged by Reed Exhibitions. AIMEX is where Australian and international suppliers of mining technology, equipment and services come together with mining industry buyers and specifiers from throughout the Asia-Pacific region to network and explore business opportunities, and exchange technical information. • Reed Exhibitions Peter Thompson 02 9422 2472 peter.thompson@reedexhibitions. com.au www.aimex.com.au

13th & 14th March 2013

ROCKHAMPTON QUEENSLAND

Unique opportunity to o network and generate te e e only inThde ustry vent f new business Que or Centra en l GOLD SPONSOR

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sland Glad the B stone an , owe d n in 20 Basin 13

March 2013

AustralianMining

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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Tilt cab for easy maintenance access

Quality Isuzu truck with excellent back up

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Rollover compliant to Australian Design Rules with a Rollover Protection System to Australian Standards 1636.1 and 2294.2

Bus module transferable onto new cab-chassis when required

Australian designed and built air conditioning for rugged and remote conditions

Comfortable coach seats with seatbelts

Industry standards are, well, standard with this 4WD Able Bus & Coach This Able Bus & Coach 4WD 18-seat remote area bus ticks all the boxes for a minesite. It isn’t over-engineered. Its simple built-for-purpose design means it gets the job done without overselling itself. For safety compliance, the vehicle meets strength and design requirements. All the engineering tests are validated. Extensive safety features come standard. These include a built-in Rollover Protection System (ROPS) to Australian Standards 1636.1 and 2294.2

Able-AustralianMining12.indd 1

and Australian Design Rule rollover compliance, full size coach seats with seat belts and driver’s air bag. Air conditioners designed and built for extreme heat and vibration also come standard.

It’s built on a bigger truck and put less passengers in. It may cost a little more but it’s better in the long run, giving a stronger, more reliable vehicle. Another key feature of the vehicles is inter-changeability with passenger modules that can be removed from older cab chassis and placed on a new cab chassis reducing replacement costs for companies.

Testament to the company’s business philosophy of building tough yet safe, reliable and comfortable vehicles that meet the highest standards are customers such as Able Bus & Coach’s vehicle BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto and make of choice is Isuzu – NationWide Hire and a repeat business rate of 90 per cent.

and for good reason: Isuzu isn’t just a good make of vehicle; after sales service is unsurpassed. The tilt cab of the chassis also allows easy maintenance and access to the motor. A higher ground clearance than a conventional bus chassis is also ideal for mine site and remote areas. For more information call Able Bus & Coach on 08 9371 7100, info@ablebusandcoach.com.au or visit ablebusandcoach.com.au

A key proposition of the vehicle is robustness.

Supplying Australiawide [Est.1995]

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