Australian Mining July 2022

COMMODITY SPOTLIGHT INDUSTRY INSIGHT VOLUME 114/6 | JULY 2022

RECRUITMENT

COMMODITY SPOTLIGHT INDUSTRY INSIGHT RECRUITMENT

VOLUME 114/6 | JULY 2022

MINING IN THE DIGITAL AGE EMBRACING THE OPPORTUNITY

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COMMENT

MINING IN THE DIGITAL AGE IT MIGHT BE MORE THAN YOU THINK.

PAUL HAYES paul.hayes@primecreative.com.au

W

hen the subject of digital mining is raised, one could be forgiven for assuming the idea is referring to more functional things such as automation, equipment calibration, depth exploration, and the like. And, sure, those areas are key in the age of digital mining.

But there is so much more value to be gained from using all those ones and zeroes.

From environmental, social and governance (ESG) to employee safety to data management to improved connectivity to more effective reporting, embracing the digital side of mining has any number of benefits.

Better digital capabilities on mine sites can improve productivity and lower costs, and while it might sound a little like something from the not-too-distant future, the use of satellite technology is having a major impact on modern mining.

Advances in satellite communications have meant the technology is fast becoming an affordable reality for the mining sector, providing significant advantages for digital connectivity in remote areas. According to Sandeep Kumar, head of satellite services at Telstra Enterprise, Australian miners would be wise to embrace the technology now to harness current and future benefits.

A greater – and more reliable – level of connectivity also allows for an environment where evolving technologies such as artificial intelligence, drone inspections and autonomous vehicles, even the implementation of digital PPE to ensure worker health and safety, is possible.

When connected to a high-definition live video feed, workers can have accurate

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER JOHN MURPHY PUBLISHER CHRISTINE CLANCY EDITOR PAUL HAYES Email: paul.hayes@primecreative.com.au JOURNALISTS ALEXANDRA EASTWOOD Email: alexandra.eastwood@primecreative.com.au TOM PARKER Email: tom.parker@primecreative.com.au LEWIS CROSS Email: lewis.cross@primecreative.com.au

visibility of equipment without being directly exposed to potential hazards.

Sites can also flag any issues before they become catastrophic, and monitor financial and material expenses for smarter resource allocation.

Elsewhere in this issue, we take a look at the question or whether nuclear could possibly have a role in the future of power generation in the mining industry.

While this type of power has long been shunned in Australia, the increasingly global popularity of small modular reactors – which are quicker and less capital-intensive to build than a nuclear power plant, while also being safer, easily transportable, and scalable – could be reliable and zero-emission energy the local industry is looking for.

This month’s commodity spotlight takes a magnifying glass to diamonds. While the 2020 closure of the Argyle diamond mine in WA’s Kimberley region may have put a massive dent in the world’s supply of pink diamonds, they have not disappeared from the market.

In fact, these colourful gems, along with their blue and yellow counterparts, may be the unassuming investment safehaven people are crying out for amid ongoing global instability and supply-chain issues.

FRONT COVER

When Minjar Gold was looking for a way to improve its network coverage and connectivity speeds across its remotely located Southern Cross operation in WA, the company had exhausted almost every option and was almost at a loss. But that was before it found the Vocus solution, which delivered a private network to Minjar that offered a 10-fold improvement on its previous connectivity speed. This project has had a positive impact on employees and the greater community, and is an excellent example of modern mining in the digital age.

Cover image: Vocus Paul Hayes Editor

CLIENT SUCCESS MANAGER JANINE CLEMENTS Tel: (02) 9439 7227 Email: janine.clements@primecreative.com.au SALES MANAGER JONATHAN DUCKETT Tel: (02) 9439 7227 Mob: 0498 091 027 Email: jonathan.duckett@primecreative.com.au SALES ADMINISTRATOR EMMA JAMES Tel: (02) 9439 7227 Mob: 0414 217 190 Email: emma.james@primecreative.com.au DESIGN PRODUCTION MANAGER MICHELLE WESTON michelle.weston@primecreative.com.au ART DIRECTOR BLAKE STOREY blake.storey@primecreative.com.au

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IN INTHIS THISISSUE ISSUE

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DIGITAL MINING

Is digitalisation the key to a sustainable mining future?

Digitalisation is one of the most important trends facing the mining sector. What makes it so critical and how is the industry embracing the opportunity?

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DIGITAL MINING

Satellite technology is changing the space for digital mining Advances in satellite communications have meant the technology is fast becoming an affordable reality for the mining sector, providing significant advantages for digital connectivity in remote areas.

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ON-SITE SAFETY

Four-drink limit: New on-site alcohol guideline A newly released guide for on-site accommodation facilities in WA could have effects across the industry.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

A modular approach to power generation

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Nuclear power has long been absent from Australia’s energy mix, but as the technology evolves and diversifies does it have a future as a zero-carbon energy alternative for the mining industry?

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INDUSTRY EVENTS

Research and industry bodies come together for IMPC Asia Pacific

In-person events are back and better than ever. Australian Mining chats with IMPC conference chair Ralph Holmes about what to expect from IMPC Asia Pacific 2022. AusIMM

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MAINTENANCE

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GOLD

Schlam’s herculean achievement

Hercules dump bodies may not look much different than they did when they were first manufactured almost 20 years ago, but the latest design is the result of Schlam’s continuous innovation.

G old Industry Group shifts to online recruitment platforms

T he Gold Jobs initiative provides the industry with a platform to connect with the wider community and attract new people into its talent pipeline.

MINERAL PROCESSING

A one-stop-shop for mineral processing

When it comes to mineral processing equipment, one size does not fit all.

That’s where thyssenkrupp’s dedicated machines and services come in.

REGULARS

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8 NEWS

COMMODITY SPOTLIGHT

Diamonds: An investor’s best friend?

November 2020 marked the end of an era as Rio Tinto’s Argyle diamond mine closed its doors, but we haven’t seen the end of the iconic pink diamonds just yet.

5 COMMENT

88 PRODUCTS 90 EVENTS

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NEWS

THE LATEST MINING AND SAFETY NEWS AUSTRALIAN MINING PRESENTS THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE BOARDROOM TO THE MINE AND EVERYWHERE IN BETWEEN. VISIT WWW.AUSTRALIANMINING.COM.AU TO KEEP UP TO DATE WITH WHAT IS HAPPENING. WIND FENCES PROTECT BHP STOCKPILES

THE FENCES ARE DESIGNED TO REDUCE POTENTIAL FOR DUST LIFT-OFF.

Australia’s first wind fences, designed to reduce dust emissions as part of BHP’s $300 million air quality commitment, will be built in Port Hedland by CIMIC Group’s CPB Contractors.

Announcing the successful tender in Port Hedland, BHP and CPB Contractors said three fences would be built at BHP’s Nelson Point and Finucane Island operations.

Construction of the wind fences is expected to start in August 2022 and take 14 months to complete.

Up to 150 employees will be involved in the construction of the project, with up to 10 per cent Indigenous employment.

Designed for the Pilbara’s unique weather conditions, and rated specifically to withstand cyclones, the fences will include mesh panels designed to reduce wind speeds,

shielding BHP’s ore stockpiles and reducing the potential for dust lift-off.

The fences will abate dust emissions in current operations and ensure no net increases in dust emissions should operations expand over time.

BHP Port general manager Cindy Dunham said the wind fences would be constructed using global best practice dust management and air quality control technology.

“The investment forms part of our Pilbara Air Quality Program and demonstrates our commitment to the region and contribution to the revitalisation of the west end,” she said.

“The wind fence project is a key part of our commitment towards continued improvement of our existing dust control measures as we

look to continue growing production over time.

“We look forward to working with CPB Contractors on this exciting project, which will help control dust emissions in Port Hedland while also continuing to provide jobs and economic opportunity for the region.”

CPB Contractors general manager WA, SA and NT, Andrew Giammo, said the innovative environmental project would provide lasting benefits for the community of Port Hedland.

“Construction of the wind fences will involve the fabrication of 3000 tonnes of structural steel – this work will be undertaken here in WA and will be a major boost to local industry,” he said.

“Throughout the life of the project, we’ll also be looking to maximise opportunities for Indigenous businesses and employment.”

The 30m-high fences, which span a length of 2km, will include mesh panels designed to reduce wind speeds, shielding the stockyard and reducing the potential for dust lift-off. As the wind speed reaches a certain limit, the mesh curtain opens to let the air flow through the fence.

BHP is spending up to $300 million

AUSTRALIAN MINING GETS THE LATEST NEWS EVERY DAY, PROVIDING MINING PROFESSIONALS WITH UP-TOTHE-MINUTE INFORMATION ON SAFETY, NEWS AND TECHNOLOGY FOR THE AUSTRALIAN MINING AND RESOURCES INDUSTRY.

over the next four years as part of its Pilbara Air Quality Program, which also includes: • the trialling of vegetation barriers, in partnership with Curtin University and Greening Australia, to help capture natural and industry dust before it impacts the west end of Port Hedland • the continued implementation and optimisation of operational dustcontrol projects across the entire Pilbara supply chain, such as moisture management systems, ore conditioning and monitoring infrastructure, and improvements across our existing controls at our mines and port.

TIANQI LITHIUM DELIVERS FIRST BATTERY-GRADE PRODUCT The first batch of battery-grade lithium has been produced by Tianqi Lithium Energy Australia (TLEA) from its plant in Kwinana, WA, the first time the material has been produced in Australia in commercial quantities.

TLEA said it was a significant milestone for Australian mining as the sector expands to meet rapidly growing demand for rechargeable batteries. TLEA’s Kwinana plant has successfully met internal certification processes, with the on-site laboratory confirming that

battery-grade specification has been met on 10 tonnes of lithium hydroxide, produced consistently over several days.

The next step in the ramp-up process is customer qualification over the next four to eight months.

During this time, the plant will continue to focus on stable, consistent, and reliable production of battery-grade lithium.

Chief operating officer Raj Surendran said the company was proud to show Australia could add value to its minerals onshore.

“This is an exciting time for our shareholders, suppliers and service providers who have contributed to the construction and ramp-up of the Kwinana plant, and our employees who have worked so hard to turn the dream of producing battery-grade lithium hydroxide in Australia into a reality,” he said.

TLEA is a joint venture between one of the world’s top producers of lithium chemicals for electric vehicle batteries, Tianqi Lithium Corporation (51 per cent), and

AUSTRALIANMINING

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Australian miner IGO Limited (49 per cent).

TLEA owns the first lithium hydroxide plant in Australia and the largest in the world outside of China.

“More than 900 jobs were created during the construction phase of the plant, which is now being operated by about 200 people, as well as providing business opportunities for our numerous suppliers, many of whom are locally based,” Surendran said.

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NEWS

CIVMEC ORDER BOOK BOOSTED BY $120 MILLION Western Australia-based integrated, multi-disciplinary construction and engineering services provider Civmec has announced a raft of new contracts worth about $120 million across multiple sectors.

Car dumper replacement

BHP has awarded this contract to Civmec for the replacement of BHP’s Car Dumper 3 (CD3) at its Nelson Point facility in Port Hedland, which was commissioned in 1998. The new CD3 has a design life of 30 years and is intended to fit in the existing concrete vault with

minimal structural modifications.

Procurement activities for this project have started, with fabrication commencing in Q1 FY2023 and completion of fabrication in Q4 FY2023.

At peak, this contract will employ about 85 people.

Subsea project

Subsea 7 has awarded the contract for subsea structures on the Woodside-operated Scarborough Project performed

by Subsea Integration Alliance, a non-incorporated strategic

global alliance between Subsea 7 and OneSubsea, the subsea technologies, production, and processing systems division of Schlumberger.

The scope of work includes a riser base manifold and foundation, six off FLETs (Flowline End Termination) with mud mats, seven off ILT (Inline Tees) and two off permanent PLRs (Pig Launcher Receivers). Totalling to more than 1700 tonnes of subsea structures, the project’s deliverables, welding procedure qualification campaign and shop detailing will commence

CIVMEC SAID THE CONTRACTS DEMONSTRATED ITS TRACK RECORD OF DELIVERING FOR CLIENTS.

immediately, with fabrication starting Q4 2022 through to factory acceptance testing being carried out from Q2 2023, with progressive loadout to Q3 2024. This project will employ 80 people at peak.

Roy Hill capital upgrades project

Roy Hill has awarded the Structural Mechanical Piping and Electrical Works for the ROM4 Crusher 5 project at Roy Hill’s mine facility north of Newman, Western Australia.

This is a follow-on from the current SMP&E contract for the Wet High Intensity Magnetite Separator project that is nearing completion, and will see the same project management team transitioning to the ROM4 project.

The scope includes SMP&E plus communications works for crushing station five and transfer conveyor, including installation of clientsupplied modules and equipment.

Mobilisation will commence in Q4 FY2022 with completion in Q2 FY2023, with peak employment planned to be about 130.

Roy Hill term maintenance contract

Roy Hill has extended the Shutdown and Maintenance Support Services Agreement by an additional five years through to March 2027.

This contract extension demonstrates a significant commitment from Roy Hill and will enable Civmec to support the Roy Hill operation with multi-disciplined shutdown and maintenance services for the fixed-plant assets across the port (facility) and PSA (mine).

Civmec chief executive officer Patrick Tallon said the new contracts demonstrated the company’s track record of delivering for its clients.

TOMINGLEY: THE MINE THAT KEEPS ON GIVING The 500,000th ounce of gold has been poured at Alkane Resources’ Tomingley mine.

Alkane Resources managing director Nic Earner said the significant milestone provided a fitting testament to the teams that have worked on the Tomingley Gold Project and operations since the days of discovery by Alkane in the early 2000s.

“When we commenced mining at Tomingley in 2013, the plan was to produce 380,000 ounces from open-cut and underground over seven years,” he said.

“We were also quietly confident that further discoveries would be made during that time to allow extension.

“Here we are, nine years later, entering our second decade of production and passing 500,000 AUSTRALIANMINING

ounces, proving that our confidence was well founded.

“We have met or exceeded our production guidance every year of operation and surpassed our original production targets.

“We have expanded our resources around the existing mine and added new discoveries to the south of Tomingley. Our geological teams are seeking to expand these resources even further.

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“As a result, our current life-ofmine plan shows about a further 700,000 ounces of planned production over the decade ahead.”

Tomingley Gold is located about 50km south-west of Dubbo in central western New South Wales.

The gold processing plant was commissioned in January 2014 and has been operating at the design capacity of one million tonnes per annum since late May 2014.

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NEWS

FIRST SPODUMENE ROLLS OFF WODGINA BELT Mineral Resources (MinRes) has marked a significant milestone in its lithium growth strategy with first new spodumene concentrate delivered at the Wodgina Lithium Project in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

Wodgina is one of the world’s largest known hard rock lithium deposits and operates under the MARBL JV – an unincorporated joint venture between MinRes (40 per cent) and Albemarle Corporation (60 per cent) – with a current processing capacity of 750,000 tonnes per annum of six per cent spodumene concentrate.

In late 2021, following two years in care and maintenance, the MARBL JV agreed to resume production at Wodgina in response to soaring global demand for high-quality lithium products.

Focus immediately turned to safely restarting the first of Wodgina’s three 250,000-tonnes-per-annum trains, with first spodumene concentrate now produced in line with a May

2022 target. Work is also underway to prepare Wodgina’s second train for production in July 2022.

MinRes’ chief executive for lithium, Paul Brown, said the fast start-up was a credit to the company’s strategy to build and invest in a portfolio of longlife, high-quality assets.

“Achieving first spodumene concentrate production at Wodgina is a great milestone as we look to safely and efficiently build production momentum to meet significant global demand for lithium products,” he said.

“Work is also advanced on starting Train 2, which demonstrates the foresight and optionality MinRes invested in Wodgina when we first developed this world-class asset.”

In addition to Wodgina, the MARBL JV includes the 50,000-tonnes-perannum Kemerton lithium hydroxide plant near Bunbury in Western Australia’s south-west.

Commissioning of the first of two 25,000-tonnes-per-annum processing lines is almost complete and maiden

hydroxide production is expected shortly.

MinRes also operates the Mt Marion lithium mine in Western Australia’s Goldfields region in a 50–50 joint venture with one of the world’s largest lithium producers, Jiangxi Ganfeng Lithium.

In April this year, MinRes and Ganfeng announced a decision to increase spodumene production at Mt Marion from 450,000 to 600,000 tonnes per annum of mixed-grade concentrate and target an annual plant capacity of 900,000 tonnes by the end of 2022. MinRes has also begun processing its share of Mt Marion spodumene concentrate into lithium hydroxide as part of the Ganfeng partnership.

Brown said increased demand for lithium products – underpinned by advancements in battery technology and the continued growth of the electric vehicle market – made MinRes one of the few producers worldwide that could reliably support and supply

the lithium needed for the world’s transition to renewable energy.

“We identified lithium as a target commodity over a decade ago and set about building a portfolio of worldclass assets that could deliver longterm, sustained value,” he said.

“Wodgina is one of the world’s best lithium assets and our well-timed development means MinRes can now safely and effectively ramp up spodumene concentrate production in the Pilbara.

“Lithium is the most critical mineral to support decarbonisation and MinRes has established a worldclass lithium business with Tier 1 partners within the world’s lowest-risk lithium jurisdictions. This positions us well to increase output in line with market demands.

“It’s an exciting time for MinRes, our partners and our people – we’ve worked hard to build a 30–50-year horizon that will keep delivering opportunities for all stakeholders to achieve more success together.”

FORREST TAKES BACK FORTESCUE GROUP REINS

ANDREW FORREST WILL NOW DRIVE THE UNIQUE MISSION TO TURN FORTESCUE GREEN BY 2030.

Andrew Forrest is set to resume duties as executive chairman of the Fortescue Group when Elizabeth Gaines concludes her tenure in August.

The move is part of a Fortescue Metals Group restructure, with both the chief executive officer of Fortescue and the CEO of Fortescue

Future Industries (FFI) reporting directly to the Board.

Gaines will remain on the Fortescue board as a non-executive director and become Global Brand Ambassador for FFI. The company stated the move further signified the evolution of Fortescue into a global green

AUSTRALIANMINING

renewables and resources company, first announced in 2020.

It will help to deliver Fortescue’s global green energy business strategy – to lower global emissions, to decarbonise Fortescue, and to create significant additional value for shareholders, through sharing green fuels and

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technology with the world.

Forrest and his wife Nicola started Fortescue in 2003, carefully building it into the most efficient iron ore company in the world. He will now drive the unique mission to turn Fortescue green by 2030, ensuring the first mover advantage created over the past several years is fully realised for shareholders.

In other appointments, Mark Hutchinson, former president and CEO of General Electric Europe, will join FFI in early July, initially in the role of director of projects, before assuming the role of CEO of FFI, by the end of 2022.

The current FFI CEO, Julie Shuttleworth, will continue in her role during the transition process and will then move to a senior executive leadership role at FFI. Li Yifei has also been appointed as a Fortescue board director in 2022 (subject to normal procedures). She currently serves on the board of BlackRock China and is a Global Trustee of the Rockerfeller Foundation.

Andrew Vesey, former CEO of AGL Energy, will be appointed as FFI’s head of energy transition projects.

Vesey has spent more than 40 years transforming and repositioning organisations by focusing on advanced technology and execution.

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NEWS

RESEARCH UNCOVERS SWEET SPOT FOR GOLD

THE FINDINGS INDICATE THERE IS A ‘SWEET SPOT’ FOR GOLD DISCOVERY.

A Geoscience Australia-led team of researchers has made it easier for explorers to strike gold by uncovering previously unknown patterns in global geology that can be used to explore for deposits.

In findings published in Nature Scientific Reports, researchers from Geoscience Australia’s Exploring for the Future program, the University of Adelaide and the United States Geological Survey compared magneto-telluric data from across Australia, North and South America and China for the first time.

Exploring for the Future program’s Senior Science Advisor, Dr Karol Czarnota, said like a live wire detector, magneto-telluric instruments could identify natural electric conductors in the Earth from tens to hundreds of kilometres beneath the Earth’s surface that are sometimes linked to copper, gold and associated critical mineral deposits.

“Through this analysis, we’ve found that we can pinpoint areas for exploration by using statistics to look through the whole tectonic plate and identify which conductors have the

greatest potential to be associated with mineral deposits,” he said.

“This is the first time we have identified statistically robust, global insights of this kind, which image the source regions of minerals deep in the crust and pinpoint favourable areas for exploration.

“In short, our findings indicate there is a ‘sweet spot’ for gold discovery. This information will make it much easier for gold explorers to zoom in on new prospective ground.

It could even be used to open new mineral provinces across Australia,

sparking a modern-day gold rush.

“This information could also help find other vital resources such as copper, tellurium, antimony and other critical minerals used in alloys and electrification.”

The paper also sheds light on the source of gold in orogenic gold deposits – deposits formed in mountain-building zones.

“We’ve learnt that gold in orogenic gold deposits is most likely sourced from the mid to lower part of the Earth’s crust as opposed to the even deeper layer in the Earth, the mantle.

This answers the question of where the gold in deposits that helped build towns like Ballarat and Bendigo came from,” Czarnota said.

The research drew on data from the Australian Lithospheric Architecture Magnetotelluric Project (AusLAMP), which is a partnership between Geoscience Australia, state and territory geological surveys, AuScope and universities to acquire magnetotelluric data across the Australian continent.

The national AusLAMP project has so far modelled the underlying geology of more than 2.5 million square kilometres across Australia, revealing electrical conductors and resistors that extend deep below the Earth’s surface.

“We know 80 per cent of the Australian continent is ‘undercover’ – which means some of the best geology containing mineral, energy and groundwater resources is hidden under a blanket of younger sediments,” Czarnota said.

“Magneto-tellurics is one of the few techniques that can ‘see’ through this cover. This technology is a powerful tool for mineral exploration – using it, we are basically learning how to read nature.”

NEW GOLD MINER IN THE TERRITORY RANKS TM Gold has been approved by the Northern Territory Government to commence operations at the Spring Hill Mine.

Located about 30km north of Pine Creek, the site is set to initially produce approximately 102,000 ounces of gold over a 13-month period.

Works at the site to date include historical shaft mining and exploration drilling under various operators between 1992 and 2017.

The Spring Hill Mine Project approval is now the sixth significant mine approved in the last two

years, with the other approvals being: • Core Lithium, Finniss Project •N athan River Resources, Nathan River Project •M cArthur River Mine, Overburden Management Project • KGL Resources, Jervois Project •V ista Gold, Mount Todd Mine Project.

TM Gold’s Mining Management Plan (MMP) meets the requirements of the Mining Management Act 2001 and the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act AUSTRALIANMINING

1999, and is consistent with all environmental requirements from the NT Environmental Protection Authority.

Mining and Industry minister Nicole Manison said the NT Government was working to make the Territory the best place for exploration and mining investment in Australia.

“The Spring Hill Mine will support over 30 local jobs with mining scheduled to commence later this year,” she said.

“We are serious about supporting the resources sector,

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and this approval delivers a clear signal to potential investors that we’re open for business and working hard to protect the environment through appropriate regulation.”

Ashley Pattison, major shareholder and executive chair of PC Gold, a subsidiary of TM Gold, said the Spring Hill deposit is located within one of the largest mining leases in the Northern Territory and “stage one of the project is seen as a very important stepping stone to a much longer mine life”.

NEWS

TESLA TEASES POSSIBLE MINE PURCHASE

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TESLA COULD BUY A MINING COMPANY TO PRODUCE ITS OWN SUPPLY OF ELECTRIC VEHICLE METALS.

Tesla could buy a mining company to produce its own supply of electric vehicle (EV) metals, if that would speed up worldwide adoption of clean energy technologies.

The possibility was raised by chief executive officer Elon Musk amid fears that the supply of lithium, nickel, copper and other metals

could not match demand later this decade.

“It’s not out of the question,” Musk told the FT Future of the Car 2022 conference.

“We will address whatever limitations are on accelerating the world’s transition to sustainable energy. It’s not that we wish to buy

mining companies, but if that’s the only way to accelerate the transition, then we will do that.”

Tesla has lithium supply deals with Ganfeng Lithium Co, Livent Corp and Albemarle Corp, among others, and nickel supply deals with Vale and Talon Metals. But its goal to produce 20 million vehicles annually by 2030

will require vastly greater supplies of metals. Tesla produced just under one million EVs last year.

Some analysts already feel that buying an existing metals producer would cost far less than the $43 billion Musk offered to buy social media network Twitter earlier this year.

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GR ENGINEERING TO BUILD BELLEVUE PROCESSING PLANT GR Engineering Services has been awarded a preliminary works agreement for the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) of the one-million-tonnesper-annum gold processing plant and associated infrastructure for the Bellevue Gold Project in Western Australia.

GR Engineering will immediately commence design engineering services and ordering of long lead

and design critical path equipment, including the ball mill, crushing equipment, screens agitators, leach and tailings thickeners, prior to entering into an EPC contract.

Bellevue managing director Steve Parsons said GR Engineering knew the project well.

“GR Engineering is one of the most recognised and reputable name in the Australian goldprocessing industry,” he said.

AUSTRALIANMINING

“It’s fantastic to have another Tier 1 business involved in the development and construction phase. ‘’Commencing manufacturing of these long-lead critical components of our processing plant de-risks the construction schedule and puts Bellevue on the pathway to first gold in the second half of 2023. The appetite among leading contractors and

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suppliers to be involved with our project speaks volumes about its strong future”.

GR Engineering managing director Geoff Jones said the project further enhanced GR Engineering’s reputation as the leading gold EPC contractor in Australia.

“GR Engineering continues to build its pipeline of work in FY23 and future years,” he said.

JULY 2022

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NEWS

AVEBURY NICKEL MINE OUT OF CARE AND MAINTENANCE The Avebury Nickel Mine in western Tasmania is back in operational mode, with its care and maintenance status lifted by Tasmanian regulatory bodies (Mineral Resources Tasmania, Worksafe Tasmania and EPA Tasmania).

Mallee Resources reports that the change comes after payment of the required environmental bond and the submission of the requisite operational plans. The company is set to own the mine after the planned acquisition of Allegiance Mining.

All safety protocols for the operation of the underground mine are in place. Mining operations have commenced, with the first development cuts drilled and blasted.

Managing director and former Avebury general manager John Lamb said the return to operations had been a long time coming and the entire Avebury team was to be congratulated.

“The company is progressing well through the conditions precedent to the acquisition of Avebury. We are

confident that the conditions will be satisfied on a timely basis,” he said.

“The Avebury Nickel Project is a very attractive project and we are very happy to have secured our interest in it pursuant to the competitive bidding process that resulted in the DOCA (deed of company arrangement) being entered into.”

Mallee Resources has also entered into a binding agreement with Zebs Minerals and D&B Mining to acquire an exploration licence close to Avebury.

The agreement includes a Sandvik LH517 mine loader and “all the geological and mining data and information” held by the vendors in relation to both the Melba tenements and the Avebury Nickel Project.

Lamb said that upon completion the company would more than double its ground-holding in the highly mineralised Melba Flats area, a region known for high-grade mineralisation and small-scale historical mining.

ALL SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR THE OPERATION OF THE UNDERGROUND NICKEL MINE ARE IN PLACE.

MILLIONS FOR WA LITHIUM PROJECT Pilbara Minerals, with its project partner Calix, has been awarded a $20 million grant from the Australian Government under the Modern Manufacturing Initiative (MMI) to support the further development and demonstration of the proposed Mid-Stream Project at Pilgangoora.

The funds will be used as part of a proposed joint venture to be entered between the parties to support the design, procurement, construction, and commissioning of the project’s demonstration plant.

A scoping study recently completed by Lycopodium Minerals, in conjunction with the Pilbara Minerals and Calix teams, assessed the technical viability of developing a demonstrationscale chemicals facility to produce lithium salts from fines flotation spodumene concentrate produced at the Pilgangoora Project.

The objective of the Mid-Stream Project is to deliver a superior value-added lithium raw material that outperforms across the key metrics of product cost, quality, carbon energy reduction and AUSTRALIANMINING

waste reduction/handling. Works undertaken to date have explored alternative solutions to achieve these aims, including reviewing and testing alternate process paths, equipment selection and end product types.

Pilbara Minerals managing director and chief executive officer Ken Brinsden said the MMI grant funding represented key backing for technology that signals a giant leap forward for the hard-rock lithium raw materials supply chain.

“We are pleased to be partnered with Calix and their fantastic team

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to build on the technology and ultimately market the product around the world,” he said.

Calix managing director Phil Hodgson said the project aimed to develop a low-carbon process for lithium salt production into a rapidly growing market that is increasingly demanding more sustainable practices.

The parties are targeting to finalise and execute the formal joint venture agreement by early Q3 2022, with a final investment decision on the project to be decided late 2022 or early 2023.

DIGITAL MINING

IS DIGITALISATION THE KEY TO A SUSTAINABLE MINING FUTURE? DIGITALISATION IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT TRENDS FACING THE MINING SECTOR. WHAT MAKES IT SO CRITICAL AND HOW IS THE INDUSTRY EMBRACING THE OPPORTUNITY?

A

s a new era of electrification and automation comes to light, the Australian mining industry is undergoing a sweeping digital transformation.

It’s probably fair to say the mining sector hasn’t always been the most forthcoming industry when it comes to digitalisation, but the impetus is now front and centre.

According to Ernst & Young’s (EY) report, ‘Top 10 business risks and opportunities for mining and metals in 2022’, 91 per cent of surveyed mining companies planned to ramp up their digital investment in the calendar year.

This saw ‘digital and innovation’ rise from ninth to seventh on EY’s list of priorities for the mining sector.

“Digital has become an integral part of doing business in mining and metals, a fact we noted in last year’s report where digital ranked just number nine in our list of risks and opportunities,” EY said in its report.

“But now we see a push to find, develop and deploy new technology for a broader purpose as miners respond to an accelerated focus on ESG (environmental, social and governance) from capital markets and the challenge to transition to net zero and develop ‘greener’ products.”

The mining industry’s digital transformation is being furthered by initiatives such as the Charge On Innovation Challenge.

Launched by majors BHP, Rio Tinto and Vale, the challenge seeks to accelerate commercialisation of effective solutions for charging electric haul trucks while simultaneously demonstrating there is an emerging market for these solutions in mining.

Underpinning the solutions is an inherent drive to digitalise operations.

The Charge On Innovation Challenge received interest from more than 350 companies across 19 industries, with over 80 companies submitting expressions of interest.

Twenty-one companies were then invited to present a detailed pitch of their solution.

In May, eight successful innovators were selected for the challenge, including ABB, Ampcontrol and Tritium (Australia), BluVein XL, DB Engineering & Consulting (DB E&C) with Echion Technologies, Hitachi, Shell Consortium, Siemens, and 3ME Technology.

Integrated with digital applications and services to monitor and optimise energy usage, the ABB Ability eMine comprises a portfolio of electrification technologies that makes an all-electric mine possible from pit to port.

MOST MINING COMPANIES SAY THEY PLAN TO RAMP UP THEIR DIGITAL INVESTMENT DURING THIS CALENDAR YEAR.

AUSTRALIANMINING

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DIGITAL MINING

Ampcontrol and Tritium have developed an end-to-end modular recharging station that is fully automated, transportable, scalable and cell-agnostic, enabling the autonomous swapping of haul truck batteries in 90 seconds.

Other innovations recognised as part of the Charge On Innovation Challenge include DB E&C’s catenary and advanced battery technology system, Hitachi’s Grid-eMotion Flash, and 3ME Technology’s Bladevolt XL system, among others.

The eight successful innovators will now collaborate with interested mining companies, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and investors to accelerate their technologies.

“The truly global nature of the final eight technology innovators selected from across industries demonstrates the level of interest that exists to work closely with the mining industry in seeking solutions to decarbonise mining fleets,” BHP group procurement officer James Agar said in a statement.

“The Charge On Innovation Challenge is a great example of the current collaborative work being done to reimagine traditional models and relationships, which will enable innovative solutions to be designed, tested and implemented, fast-tracking the adoption of new technology.”

The importance of “reimagining” traditional models cannot be understated. In an ever-advancing world, it’s largely a situation of sink or swim and those unwilling to evolve could be left behind.

This is not only to ensure the operational health of a mining company, but also its sustainability credentials – an important consideration in the eyes of investors.

In Deloitte’s 2022 ‘Tracking the Trends’ report, the esteemed consultancy outlined “embedding ESG into organisations” as number four on a list of 10 trends that will underline the mining and metals industry this year. Deloitte suggested digital transformation is vital as companies evolve their ESG practices.

“For ESG commitments to be properly met at the operational level, information must be able to flow freely up and down the organisational structure, rather like through neural pathways,” Deloitte said in the report.

“Leaders must be able to look into the business and check that the commitments they have made publicly are being understood and reflected in practices below them.

“Likewise, information must also flow back up from operational teams in the form of risk registers, internal audits, operational plans, and capital commitments that show

MODERN MINES SEEK TO TRANSFORM DATA INTO PREDICTIVE INTELLIGENCE, LEADING TO FULLY INTEGRATED, SYSTEMISED AND SELF-LEARNING OPERATIONS.

whether teams are on track with the commitment or not. Digital transformation will go some way toward this, making timely, critical information transparent and available on demand.

“The danger is that, if companies don’t implement and test these structures and processes, and they cannot answer stakeholders’ questions or, worse still, if a failure in governance

occurs, they could lose an important source of capital or be accused of greenwashing.”

Deloitte said greenwashing isn’t just damaging to an individual company’s reputation but to the industry as a whole, but the issue can be combatted by the deployment of “accessible engagement structures” by which plans and progress can be discussed with stakeholders.

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DIGITAL MINING

COMPANIES HAVE BEEN USING DIGITAL INITIATIVES TO MOVE TOWARDS WATERLESS MINES AND REDUCE THEIR DEPENDENCE ON TAILINGS FACILITIES.

“This is why ESG needs to be incorporated into a broader corporate strategy as well as enterprise risk management (ERM) and performance-management systems,” Deloitte said.

“Using past examples of tailings dam or social failures, it’s now possible to quantify both the financial and nonfinancial impacts of not having the appropriate operating model in place.

“Leading companies are starting to question traditional ERM approaches and are developing their language and thinking to reflect this.”

Whether mining companies harness digitalisation to electrify their operations, automate their machines or embrace improved ERM practices, the premise is all the same. Connectivity and unification are key to achieving each of these objectives, something that can only be achieved by a considered digital strategy.

While BHP, Rio Tinto and Vale have been exponents of the Charge On Innovation Challenge, another major miner, Anglo American, has been leveraging its own digital smarts.

Anglo’s FutureSmart Mining initiative is underpinned by four concepts that will lead a new way of mining: concentrating the mine, the waterless mine, the modern mine, and the intelligent mine.

Concentrating the mine looks at ways of increasing precision in mining through minimal energy, water and capital intensity, while

the waterless mine aims to reduce Anglo’s dependence on water and tailings facilities.

The modern mine has safety at its core and the intelligent mine seeks to transform data into predictive intelligence, leading to fully integrated, systemised and selflearning operations.

The company launched its own technology platform, VOXEL, to assist in its digital transformation, something Anglo technical director Tony O’Neill said was a key focus for the company.

“Technology and innovation are central to how we are creating a

more sustainable business – for our shareholders, our employees and our stakeholders across society,” he said in a 2021 technical and innovation update.

“Across every aspect of our business, from mineral exploration to delivering our products to our customers, we are thinking innovatively to ensure the safety of our people, to enhance the sustainability of our business, and to deliver enduring value in its many forms for all our stakeholders.

“Our operating model provides stability and predictability to our performance, with P101 (Anglo’s asset productivity program) layered on

to deliver new benchmark levels of performance across our operations.

“FutureSmart Mining is then integrating technology and digitalisation with the full spectrum of our sustainable mining plan ambitions, particularly our water and energy targets and our pathway to carbonneutral operations by 2040.”

Anglo American set a target of achieving 75 per cent water efficiency (reuse and recycle) in 2020 and went on to record an efficiency of 81 per cent that year. The company reached 83 per cent water efficiency in 2021.

The major miner aims to transition all South American operations to 100 per cent renewable energy by 2023 and has partnered with EDF Renewables to develop a regional renewable energy ecosystem in South Africa.

Anglo chief executive Mark Cutifani said FutureSmart Mining was playing an important role in the company’s green transformation.

“A sustainable business is one that has an enduring purpose in society and that considers in all its decisionmaking the many different forms of value that it can deliver for all stakeholders,” he said in a statement.

“Much of what we are driving for, particularly in terms of our energy and water ambitions, will be achieved through the technologies we are deploying as part of our FutureSmart Mining program.

“These technologies are transforming the very nature of mining – how we source, mine, process, move and market our products .”

Anglo American has demonstrated a blueprint on how a digitaltransforming business can achieve objectives that align with stakeholders.

But with no singular avenue to success, companies can carve out their own path to digitalisation. That’s the beauty of the modern mining world. AM

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DIGITAL MINING

MICRO DATA CENTRES WITH MINING DNA ZELLA DC IS HELPING MINES MANAGE DATA QUICKLY AND SECURELY.

Z

ella DC’s Clinton and Angie Keeler have been working in Perth’s IT industry for over 10 years, specialising in developing missioncritical infrastructure.

They have witnessed first-hand the issues caused by traditional server rooms such as overheating, dust, limited space or lack of a purposebuilt environment. When a server room fails, the whole business suffers, and downtime always results in financial losses. Open racks servers also pose many issues.

“Open rack servers are loud, blow out a lot of hot air and are not easy to work around,” Clinton, CTO and cofounder of Zella DC, told Australian Mining.

“We saw the havoc that a server going down caused. If there was a heatwave in Perth that caused the system to go down, it would have massive impacts across the whole organisation.

“Mine sites are in even less favourable conditions, as they are remote, dusty and there are limited skillsets available in the local area.

We decided to take on the challenge of creating a solution that could last in those environments.”

The two co-founders built the first Zella Pro micro data centre in their living room. The solution is around the same size as a refrigerator and replaces the need for a traditional server room; it’s now sold in many countries over six continents.

Ensuring the micro data centres are close to the machinery can reduce latency and improve response time. When it comes to the mining industry, the micro data centres are usually deployed early in a mine’s lifecycle, often into an on-site prefabricated office where space is limited or even outdoors.

The Zella Hut is a heavily insulated micro data centre that can be stored outside. It’s been designed to withstand cyclonic winds and engineered with the local climate in mind. This outdoor solution recycles hot air to keep dust out and to remain energy efficient.

“Mining’s remoteness makes latency a problem. Smart mining equipment needs to respond in real-

time, especially for machine-learning processes,” he said.

“Trucks, cameras and other IoTenabled equipment generate huge amounts of data, which is not always practical to send to a data centre in a capital city.

“You’re also seeing organisations starting to ask where their valuable data is being stored. Is it in Australia?

Is it protected?”

The Zella Huts are preprogrammed and fully automated, making them suitable for locations with an unreliable power supply. They are UV-resistant, waterproof and dustproof and can be placed almost anywhere outdoors, from a car park to the top of a building.

For potentially intense weather situations like a mine site, Zella DC also offers a containerised solution that can house multiple units and provides cooling, along with protection against the elements.

“For areas such as greenfield and brownfield sites, the ability to have extensive data storage at the heart of the action is exactly where the external containerised solution is game-changing,” Clinton said.

“Using a shipping container (or containers) to house micro data centres is a versatile, extensive plugand-play solution that, if necessary, can keep multiple stakeholder infrastructure separate. It also makes for scalable storage that conforms to health, safety and data security requirements.”

The remote nature of the mining sector, along with its increasing uptake of smart technology, has seen the solution embraced by Australian mines.

The micro data centres are designed to be deployed without on-site specialists, with everything needed to get started pre-loaded onto the technology.

Clinton said Zella DC is constantly listening to feedback from customers to improve its technology.

“Mining is in our DNA, but we have also learned a lot from other industries, organisations and cultures,” he said.

“We’re also keeping an eye on the current geopolitical situations.

There’s a lot of things changing at the moment, so we want to make sure we can assist customers faster and easier,” he said. AM AUSTRALIANMINING

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DIGITAL MINING

CREATING TRANSPARENT ESG REPORTING IN MINING THE ERA OF CLIMATE CHANGE REPORTING HAS ARRIVED AND IT PRESENTS MINERS WITH BIG OPPORTUNITIES, ACCORDING TO I4 MINING AND SATARLA, WHO HAVE JOINED FORCES TO CREATE A SOLUTION THAT IMPROVES ESG REPORTING.

I

t’s no secret that as technology and environmental standards evolve, mining companies are having to be more transparent about their practices.

Investors are not only looking for opportunities and gravitating towards operations that are vigilant about their environmental, social and governance (ESG) outcomes, but also to those less deviant; ‘greenwashing’ is no longer an effective gambit.

Established by the Financial Stability Board, the TCFD (Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures) provides guidance on the information companies should disclose to support stakeholders, including investors, lenders and insurance underwriters, in appropriately assessing and pricing risks related to climate change.

TCFD reporting became mandatory for large organisations in the UK at the beginning of 2022, and while different versions of the framework are being established in other jurisdictions, including the European Union (EU) and US, it is becoming critical in accessing finance globally, so Australian organisations will soon need to follow suit.

“TCFD is a financial disclosure and therefore requires chief financial officers (CFOs) to become fully aware of their organisation’s ESG performance,” Satarla co-founder and chief executive officer Sarah Gordon told Australian Mining. “This significantly helps the integration and valuation of sustainability, as well as establishing where the accountability for good ESG sits within a business.”

To support this evolution, Australian mining solution specialist I4 Mining and UK ESG and risk management consultancy Satarla have teamed up to create a real-time, automated solution that assists the mining industry’s TCFD and ESG reporting practices by enhancing data access and connectivity to ensure companies are getting a full and accurate picture.

Rayven executive director of I4 Mining, Phillip McBride, said the mining industry hasn’t always had the best track record when it comes to ESG performance.

TCFD REPORTING IS BECOMING INCREASINGLY PROMINENT IN THE GLOBAL MINING INDUSTRY.

“Anyone who’s been around an enterprise knows there’s targets set at the top which are then pushed from senior management right down to the user at the mine level, who needs to try and execute on them,” he told Australian Mining.

“Then, when it comes to reporting on how a company is performing, many hours are spent collecting the data manually from different data source systems, pouring them into spreadsheets and creating opaque formulae that give an output.

“If that outcome isn’t the desired one, you’ll sometimes see data manually manipulated until it does.”

Gordon said this often leads to the creation of a static and diluted report which ticks boxes rather than accurately reflecting what’s occurring on the ground “TCFD reporting helps to change this. Transparency and accuracy are critical,” she said. “Science-based targets will begin to become the norm and those companies who don’t share this data will find it increasingly hard to gain access to capital.”

Today’s investors are too savvy and one step ahead of outdated ESG reporting practices, so what’s the solution?

“By using existing objective data and automating the process,” McBride said. “Through unifying data into a solution and then applying logic to analyse it, you can systemise expertise and deliver reports and dashboards that provide a transparent, real view of what’s actually occurring.

“Transitioning businesses away from a situation of misreporting to adopt a real-time objective solution gives transparency while enabling them to better manage ESG goals and determine what levers to pull to achieve them.”

Gordon agrees, suggesting companies that don’t make a change now risk being left behind.

“What you’ve got with TCFD is the need for behavioural change within organisations, underpinned by real data,” Gordon said.

“Many companies have been accused of ‘greenwashing’. The big shift happening now with TCFD is people saying, ‘No, we want to see real data. We want to see real performance’.

“So how do we get accurate insights into how a company is actually performing? This can be challenging for a mining operator, as they have many data sources and people on the

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ground, plus a need for information to filter up not just through the mining company, but to investors, regulators and different stakeholders.”

McBride said I4 Mining and Satarla could solve the challenge with technology, with the aim to plug into data sources across all functional areas of mining, from exploration through to product.

“We will use miners’ existing data … and alongside Satarla, put the technology and logic in – the formulas and the machine-learning models – to train the algorithms and deliver accurate, real-time measures,” he said.

“If you ask many companies now, ‘How did you produce that number?’, whether you’re talking about a daily production report or a sustainability report, the information is static and they’re rarely able to drill down to identify the data sets used to produce the outcome. We can change that.”

If Australian mining companies want to evolve, establish stronger international reputations, and access a wider pool of global investors, it’s paramount they become more diligent with their ESG reporting.

For some, it could be their only ticket to survive. AM

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DIGITAL MINING

SATELLITE TECHNOLOGY IS CHANGING THE SPACE FOR DIGITAL MINING ADVANCES IN SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS HAVE MEANT THE TECHNOLOGY IS FAST BECOMING AN AFFORDABLE REALITY FOR THE MINING SECTOR, PROVIDING SIGNIFICANT ADVANTAGES FOR DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY IN REMOTE AREAS.

W

ith the advent of new communications constellations, the future of digital mining solutions may well be in the skies.

According to Sandeep Kumar, head of satellite services at Telstra Enterprise, Australian miners would be wise to embrace the technology now to harness current and future benefits.

“The biggest advantage of satellite is its coverage and fast deployment,” Kumar told Australian Mining.

“You cannot put fibre into the ground within weeks, it can take months to years – several months of planning and months of execution on top of that.

There is also huge capital cost.”

Looking at coverage, Kumar points out that the infrastructure for terrestrial networks may not be possible or commercially viable in extremely remote locations.

“Satellite coverage is ubiquitous around the globe, regardless of location. It goes beyond landmass and into ocean bodies, even air,” he said.

“Importantly, you can put a satellite link in quickly. Depending on the requirements, you could potentially roll out connectivity in days.

“For example, you could hook up a satellite trailer to a four-wheel drive and have instant connectivity. That’s the freedom you get with satellite.

“That cannot happen with LTE (long-term evolution wireless broadband), or with fibre, unless it is pre-built.”

Previous constraints with satellite technology – namely their high latency and the cost – are getting resolved with the availability of new orbits. Latency is the time it takes for the signal to transmit data from one communication endpoint to another.

“Traditionally, we have used geostationary-earth-orbit (GEO) satellites which match the orbit of the earth as they travel and are positioned at an altitude of 36,000km,” Kumar said. “While they get a lot of coverage, it comes with a cost of high latency due to their distance from earth.

“But now we have constellations that are closer to earth which include medium-earth-orbit (MEO) and lowearth-orbit (LEO) satellites.”

The latency of MEO and LEO satellites is significantly reduced.

SATELLITES ARE NOW CLOSER TO THE EARTH AND REDUCE THE TIME FOR SIGNALS TO TRANSMIT DATA FROM ONE COMMUNICATION ENDPOINT TO ANOTHER.

AUSTRALIANMINING

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TELSTRA ENTERPRISE HEAD OF SATELLITE SERVICES SANDEEP KUMAR.

“We have MEO satellites that are approximately 8000km away from the earth, which means latency has been reduced by a factor of one third, offering fibre-like performance,” Kumar said.

“The LEO satellites are closer again, between 500–1200km away from the earth’s surface, meaning the latency factor is reduced by another third, or even more, which brings us closer to the performance of an LTE network.

“The MEOs and LEOs changed the game in terms of satellite becoming more of a standard technology.”

Kumar provides an example of a gold mining operation in Papua New Guinea where an MEO satellite service has enabled the miner to leverage the productivity and cost savings of digital transformation.

DIGITAL MINING

IMPROVED DIGITAL CAPABILITIES ON MINE SITES CAN IMPROVE PRODUCTIVITY AND LOWER COSTS.

“The MEO satellite service provides the mining operation with more capacity to support digitalisation and automation at an affordable cost and, just as importantly, extends the service beyond corporate use,” Kumar said.

“Our customer sees the health and wellbeing of their employees as equally important to the expansion of the digital capabilities of the mine, so providing employees with a level of connectivity where they can have video communications with their

families was deemed essential.

“The MEO solution we came up with enables that.”

Other innovations, such as highthroughput satellites – which are purpose-built for data – and flat-panel antennas are also making the use of satellite technology more efficient and affordable.

Kumar cites another example of where remote services can benefit.

“We have been collaborating on some recent trials with emergency services in Western Australia where

they have fitted vehicles with a flat panel antenna to connect to a GEO satellite solution,” he said.

“This enables them to connect back to the operation command through a broadband type of service. It provides them with real-time information and data flow from their location to command, supporting applications such as live streamed videos.”

Kumar makes the case that satellite technology has come a long way in recent years and that with new developments coming to market,

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mining companies should consider investing in satellite networks to support their digital capabilities.

“There’s a lot happening with LEO constellations and equipment at the end user terminals, including terminals that now have a port which supports extensions into future lowlatency systems,” he said.

“I would say to mining companies, embrace the technology and embark on a new journey with satellites. It’s a lot more affordable and there is a future path.” AM

DIGITAL MINING

REDUCING CONVEYOR MAINTENANCE COSTS WITH IOT VIBRATIONAL DETECTION FLEXCO’S INNOVATIVE MONITORING TECHNOLOGY FOR BELT CLEANERS IS DESIGNED TO AVOID SIGNIFICANT REPAIRS OUTSIDE OF SCHEDULED DOWNTIME. THE SENSORS CAN SEND AN AUTOMATIC EMAIL NOTIFICATION TO A MAINTENANCE TEAM.

THE VIBRATION SENSORS CAN TELL IF EQUIPMENT IS OPERATING WITHOUT ISSUE, AND RING THE ALARM IF AN ANOMALY IS DETECTED.

D

igital monitoring of servicing equipment can prove useful in gauging ongoing performance, but it can also help to minimise catastrophic damage by flagging functional abnormalities as they arise. This in turn saves major costs in repair and replacement of machinery components, halting the flow-on effect of one misaligned or damaged part.

Flexco, an international belt conveyor components and accessories manufacturer, has been trialling an innovative monitoring technology for belt cleaners that’s designed to avoid significant repairs on conveying systems outside of scheduled downtime.

The company estimates that between downtime loss, product availability, and replacement costs, its digital monitoring system on belt cleaners prevented a $37,000 expenditure for one trialling customer in the processing sector.

According to Sebastian Olguin, territory manager for Flexco in NSW, this real-time remote view of equipment health renders adopting digitalised schemes significantly worthwhile.

“It is highly important that companies make a shift towards embracing digitalisation,” he told

Australian Mining. “Moving away from reactive maintenance as the norm is a huge time- and cost-saver, but a lot of businesses are still a bit wary.

“Automation to replace this kind of mundane monitoring task can also free up the need for manual labour, which will help to address the staff shortages we are seeing right across the industry.”

The Flexco Elevate i3 device aims to improve conveyor productivity by wirelessly transmitting live data from the cleaning units to a cloudbased platform. This data can then be utilised by individuals or groups in an intuitive digital dashboard to generate practical insight from cuttingedge analytics.

Olguin highlights the imperative nature of switching to automated processes such as this in order to maximise product output and operator efficiency.

“Essentially, Flexco Elevate is a collection of smart vibration sensors that attach to belt cleaners,” he said.

“The system records any abnormalities and alerts the user remotely via a desktop application. It is an extremely useful tool for predictive maintenance that could be utilised industry-wide.

“It is sort of two-fold in how it works. The vibration sensors can tell if the cleaners are operating at capacity without issues, but they can

also ring the alarm bell if an anomaly is detected to prevent the risk of further damage.”

Designed in collaboration with key Internet of Things (IoT) and industrial artificial intelligence (AI) partners, this product allows suppliers, service partners and operators to work in tandem to make informed decisions regarding maintenance procedures.

Information can be manually logged via a mobile site and feed into the stream of data, providing full visibly from ground operators through to maintenance teams, key decisionmakers and stakeholders.

The device is compatible with existing Flexco belt cleaners and prioritises ease of installation, eliminating the need for risk-prone manual inspection – particularly where cleaners are mounted high up.

Digestible visual mapping of the sensors across a plant gives an ongoing asset rundown, allowing for efficient resource-planning to reduce product waste.

Importantly, the dashboard works to eliminate guesswork by relaying vital information such as belt and cleaner run times, urethane and carbide blade wear, spring tensioner reminders, and tamper detection. The entire physical and software portfolio has been rigorously tested to ensure durability in environmentally harsh applications such as mining.

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In a recent case study on a steelworks plant in NSW, the Flexco Elevate framework offered return on investment almost immediately, as the system aided in flagging a tear in one of the conveyor belts. Picking up on excessive vibration affecting one of the pre-cleaners, the sensor sent an automatic email notification to the Flexco representative, as well as the customer’s maintenance team.

“We had approached the customer to do a research and development trial for Flexco Elevate, and they agreed to an 18-month term,” Olguin said.

“They had one particular conveyor that was already causing issues but were struggling to pinpoint when or how it was acting up. After a few months, we started getting notifications through the IoT platform, so we went on-site and identified a rip in the belt which had been the cause.”

This plant has a production capacity of over three million tonnes of steel per annum, so downtime as a result of consequential damages would prove extremely costly. The belt tear was forcing material to jolt against the cleaner with each rotation, posing a safety risk that might have otherwise gone undetected.

“Conveyor systems in the mining and processing industries are part of large, heavy, sometimes dangerous machines,” Olguin said.

“If technical teams can minimise the manual labour required for check-ups and repairs, especially while equipment is in use, it will significantly increase safety on-site.

“The Flexco Elevate portfolio is the perfect first step into automating when it comes to day-to-day monitoring.” AM

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DIGITAL MINING

HARNESSING DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY FROM PIT TO PORT NOKIA’S INDUSTRIAL-GRADE PRIVATE WIRELESS SYSTEM HELPS TO LINK CRITICAL MACHINERY, PEOPLE, AND DATA POINTS ACROSS A MINING OPERATION.

I

n many ways, a mine site acts like a living modular ecosystem, with sprawling parts all moving in tandem to extract, refine, and deliver raw material simultaneously.

The larger the site, the more important the choice of network technology to support the features, connectivity, latency and critical person-to-person communications essential to modern mining operations.

Emerging Internet of Things (IoT) and analytics applications need wearable and non-wearable devices and sensors, while also dealing with huge volumes of data. Delivering these capabilities is only available with a standards-based 4.9G and 5G cellular industrial wireless network.

This is where Nokia comes in.

Nokia’s industrial-grade private wireless system offers broad spectrum connectivity across established operations, providing

a launchpad into future 5G capabilities. By linking critical machinery, people, and data points on an enclosed, low-latency network, operations can improve efficiency, safety, and overall sustainability.

“The primary benefits of Nokia’s private wireless solution is that there is only one network needed for all Mining 4.0 applications,” Nokia’s global head of marketing for the mining sector Marc Jadoul told Australian Mining.

“When we talk about missioncritical communications, that means being aware of everything that happens, without delay, and seeing the flow-on effects of one piece of equipment in real-time.

“It also creates an environment where rapidly evolving technologies are possible within the mining space – from AI (artificial intelligence) and digital twin mapping, to drone inspections and autonomous vehicles, even the implementation

LINKING MACHINERY, PEOPLE AND DATA POINTS CAN IMPROVE EFFICIENCY, SAFETY, AND OVERALL SUSTAINABILITY.

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DIGITAL MINING

MARC JADOUL, NOKIA’S GLOBAL HEAD OF MARKETING FOR THE MINING SECTOR.

of digital PPE (personal protective equipment) to ensure worker health and safety.

“With the fastest possible connectivity, all of these industrychanging applications suddenly become viable.”

As we enter a fourth industrial revolution, or Industry 4.0, automation is not yet possible at full capacity due to the transmission network.

Systems that remain from previous stages in digitalisation are being left behind, as TETRA and P25based radio networks weren’t built

for broadband data services or video communications.

“The biggest advantage of deploying private wireless is maybe that there is only one network needed for all Mining 4.0 applications,” Jadoul said. “One single infrastructure for fast, reliable and secure data, mission-critical push-to-talk and push-to-video communications, as well as for realtime video transmission.

“Wi-Fi has been designed for office environments and business applications and hasn’t been designed for challenging mining environments and mission-critical communications.

“Wi-Fi and proprietary mesh networks simply don’t provide the necessary coverage, reliability, mobility, precision or service prioritisation needed for modern mining operations.”

The differences between WiFi and private wireless networks are paramount when it comes to facilitating upgrades in industrialscale technologies. Primary factors include wider bandwidth, improved scalability, and lowerlatency features, with the capacity to integrate up to 800 unique connections across a single small cell. Private wireless networks

offer improved performance and connection reliability, with 5–10 times fewer antennas required than similarly scaled Wi-Fi solutions.

“A great example of the benefits of private wireless networks over Wi-Fi can be seen in our work with major mining industry players like Komatsu and Sandvik. Komatsu is operating most of their AHS production sites on Nokia private 4.9G/LTE (longterm evolution) and figures from these sites show some remarkable improvements,” Jadoul said.

“Previously, Wi-Fi communications equipment problems accounted for 15.13 per cent of production time lost during a 24-hour period. This resulted in 79.7 lost production hours per year, or 318,766 lost tonnes per year.

“Before the change to LTE, we observed 802.11 packet loss at was about four per cent on any given day.

The LTE commissioning drive test logged only four lost packets.

“As such, the transition to LTE reduced the communications errors per truck operating hour by 84.62 per cent. This resulted in a production increase of 255,013 tonnes per year.”

Safety is another critical aspect of the private wireless system, as it allows for a collection of sensors, cameras and drones to

provide 360° situational awareness at all times. When connected to a high-definition live video feed, workers can have accurate visibility without being directly exposed to potential hazards. Sites can also flag any issues before they become catastrophic, and monitor financial and material expenses for smarter resource allocation.

Additionally, the potential for autonomous drilling, loading and hauling opens the door for 24–7 operation, significantly maximising output and providing return on investment on applying new software tools.

“With this state-of-the-art infrastructure, human dependency is minimised and asset-intensive tasks can occur continuously within safer, more accurate parameters,” Jadoul said. “Closer monitoring of people, machinery, health and environmental conditions, and energy supply means fewer injuries, less downtime, and maximum output potential.”

Being able to provide in-depth analysis and evidence of production value to key stakeholders can ensure the future of a mining site’s continual operation, allowing adaptation around fluctuating investment trends. AM

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DIGITAL MINING

POTENTIAL PROBLEMS CAN OFTEN BE IDENTIFIED IN ADVANCE, ALLOWING PLANNING TIME FOR PARTS, TOOLING AND LABOUR.

TAILORED AND REMOTE CONDITION-MONITORING HASTINGS DEERING PROVIDES MONITORING SOLUTIONS TO HELP ALLEVIATE SAFETY AND BREAKDOWN CONCERNS ACROSS MINE SITES.

A

s heavy industries move into the age of automation, the focus on minimising downtime has led to the introduction of new Internet of Things (IoT) solutions and remote condition-monitoring.

Having confidence in equipment performance across large sites requires digital visibility and streamlined data analytics – tools that are rapidly evolving to meet customer demand.

As the official Cat equipment supplier across Queensland and the Northern Territory, Hastings Deering has deployed comprehensive backend systems regulation technology to offer detailed insight on equipment health, return on investment, and safety management.

According to Hastings Deering manager of condition monitoring Craig Boyden, Cat Foresight operates in tandem with customer software tools such as Cat Equipment Management and VisionLink to track system events including critical tasks, component failure, and refuelling.

“The event data can be made available to Cat engineers to better understand the reliability and performance of machines in the field during their life,” Boyden told Australian Mining.

“This information can be used to refine future products and to better understand how the machinery is actually used. This ranges from simple items such as service intervals through to component life cycle costs.”

The cost benefits of adopting detailed asset-monitoring are linked directly to avoiding key component failure, and the risks associated with extended unplanned downtime.

As Boyden points out, productivity losses are often significantly higher than the repair costs of a single machine.

“The basic equation for any mining operation to be successful is high productivity and lowest cost per tonne,” he said. “Our clients invest significant capital in mobile equipment, and condition-monitoring technology is critical to ensure they achieve this goal.

INFORMATION THAT ALLOWS CONFIDENCE IN EQUIPMENT ACROSS A MINE SITE IS VITAL.

“Mobile equipment maintenance costs and lost production can be a significant impost on the mining industry. The ability to understand machine condition allows maintenance activities to be planned.

“Having the right parts and skilled labour available to repair an

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item before failure should result in minimal downtime and the lowest costs repair option.”

Additionally, utilising frameworks like Cat Foresight can assist operators and suppliers with a detailed summary on condition status, contributing to more effective forward-planning

DIGITAL MINING

of maintenance schedules. It also gives full-spectrum visibility on multiple units that may be spread across a single site, giving specific comparisons that factor wear life, scheduling, and logged history.

“Automation aids in providing clients with recommendations in relation to critical events flagged onboard the equipment,” Boyden said.

“This is more than simply alerting them to the occurrence of an event, but providing them with a diagnostic report on the hour to troubleshoot the event as well.”

Furthermore, condition-monitoring can significantly contribute to safety assessment and the development of risk-management plans.

“When people think of conditionmonitoring, they usually think monitoring the equipment’s mechanical or electrical condition,” Boyden said.

“Safety is absolutely a fundamental part of success for businesses today.

“Monitoring machinery through the Foresight platform also allows various safety-related events to be monitored.”

As part of the evolution into Industry 4.0, local mining operations are already witnessing the high-value returns on extended equipment life with digital monitoring, due to its benefits for implementing predictive maintenance schemes.

“Potential problems can often be identified in advance, allowing planning time for parts, tooling and labour,” Boyden said.

“Performing planned maintenance as opposed to breakdown or emergency work usually requires less labour and is more cost-effective.

Maintenance will always be required, but our goal is to shift as much as possible to planned.”

Prior to the development of digital traceability, condition-monitoring called for higher staffing costs and often put employees in potentially dangerous situations when inspecting large, high-power equipment.

“A lot has changed since then,” Boyden said. “A team of trained professionals can work off-site and effectively monitor a large part of the machine health.

“This can reduce the labour on-site and allow for centres of expertise that

THE COST BENEFITS OF ADOPTING DETAILED ASSET-MONITORING ARE LINKED DIRECTLY TO AVOIDING KEY COMPONENT FAILURE, AND THE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH EXTENDED UNPLANNED DOWNTIME.”

can spread their collective knowledge across multiple fleets or customers.

“This has been especially effective for some of our remote clients that have experienced significant staffing challenges related to the recent pandemic and the restrictions it has placed of on staff movement.”

Hastings Deering works collaboratively with clients across the mining and construction industries to conduct ongoing assessments on the benefits of Cat-integrated software.

HASTINGS DEERING CLIENTS ARE ASSIGNED THEIR OWN CONDITIONMONITORING ANALYSTS, WHO THEY CAN CONTACT DIRECTLY.

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Garnering feedback from practical applications helps to ensure the best possible product and accompanying after-market advice.

“Our solution has been built in conjunction with Cat dealers globally to determine what is required to monitor the machine effectively,” Boyden said. “More importantly, we talk regularly to our clients to determine what challenges they need solving and look to implement solutions that will solve these specific problems.”

Hastings Deering service factors in personalised debriefing with product experts, allowing customers to glean the full potential of a constant remotemonitoring system.

“The clients each have their own assigned condition-monitoring analysts they can contact directly,” Boyden explained. “The coverage provided depends on the site’s requirement and subscription.

“It is not uncommon for mining customer to have personal coverage seven days a week, from 6.00am to 6.00pm. This makes the Cat offering an attractive and extremely viable option.” AM

EXCAVATION

GROUND ENGAGING TOOLS GET A DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

M V

MTG HAS BEEN WORKING TO MAXIMISE SAFETY AND MINIMISE LOSS BY USHERING IN THE NEXT GENERATION OF REAL-TIME EXCAVATION MONITORING THROUGH ITS GET DETECTION SYSTEM.

A

big concern for mining excavation operators when implementing ground engaging tools (GET) monitoring solutions is how reliable and consistent the system will be. Falsely detected equipment failures can pose safety risks for operators and incur unnecessary downtime.

Conversely, MTG’s groundbreaking GET Detection system suite includes sensory technology that has proven to accurately detect equipment failures in three seconds or less – without the concern for false alarms.

According to MTG vice president of product innovation Nil Vallvé, it was the increasing global demand for more resilient and robust monitoring solutions that led MTG to begin developing a failsafe GET Detection system.

“First and foremost, safety was the most important factor we considered when designing our

GET technology, with cost as a secondary consideration” he told Australian Mining.

“For example, we know that when a crusher stops due to the fall of a steel part it can be not only costly, but complicated and risky to repair it.”

The GET Detection system is equipped with sensors that automatically connect to a control unit once installed in the bucket of an excavator. From there, it detects events with a high level of accuracy and requires minimal user intervention, avoiding potential safety issues and production losses.

“MTG’s GET Detection system allows operators to respond immediately with direct action and minimise downtime on the toughest mining applications,” Vallvé said.

In addition to sensory detection of equipment health, the GET Detection system goes one step further by collecting data that allows mine site operators to optimise stock and plan for teeth replacement on their equipment.

“Our digital solutions software provides information on the working hours of every GET system on a mine site, as well as its consumption rates by machine and by positioning,” Vallvé explained.

“With our digital solutions and sensors, we are creating a new ecosystem of GET data and we are paving the way to the GET of the future and to the autonomous machine.”

MTG has been active in the Australian mining sector for more than 10 years, establishing a presence in mining regions and forging strong relationships with its customers throughout the sector.

“Our company highly values the input of our Australian mining customer base, which we consider the most technologically advanced in the world,” Vallvé said.

“We currently have warehouses in Perth (WA), Mackay (Qld) and Rutherford (NSW). Through these we have grown our local team of sales representatives, services engineers,

and logistics experts to expand our distribution across the country – from the Pilbara to the Bowen Basin.”

Given Australia is subject to some of the harshest environmental conditions in the world, MTG’s GET Detection system is one of few products in the market that has been tested against that same level of difficulty.

“We have tested our system at a wide variety of mine sites and regions across Australia and Europe and it continues to demonstrate flawless reliability in the field, regardless of the environmental conditions,” said Vallvé.

“We can proudly say that after extensive testing, our GET Detection system has yet to turn up a false alarm.”

“We expect that in a few years the sensory capabilities of our GET Detection system will become a requirement on Australian mining operations, becoming more than just a digital tool, but an integral part of the digital transformation.” AM

MTG’S GET DETECTION SYSTEM SUITE IS CRITICAL FOR SAFETY AND PRODUCTIVITY IN MINING.

o y

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DIGITAL MINING

DATA MANAGEMENT GOES DIGITAL ACQUIRE’S GIM SUITE TAKES THE GUESSWORK OUT OF WHAT IS NOW ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECTS IN THE MINING INDUSTRY.

D

ata management has become one of the most important aspects for any company or industry to get right – and the mining sector is no exception.

As mining companies get bigger, so too does the amount of data that needs to be collected, stored, and analysed.

There is little room for mistakes.

“Geological data is one of the most critical assets of a company and informs important decisions in downstream processes, such as mine planning, resource modelling and resource extraction,” acQuire chief executive officer Alison Atkins told Australian Mining.

In the modern world, there is no better way to manage this data than digitally and acQuire’s GIM Suite makes collecting that data easier than ever.

GIM Suite is acQuire’s geological data management solution, used to capture and manage data accurately and efficiently across the entire mining value chain As companies navigate deeper mines, explore more complex ore bodies, and strive to operate in a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly way, data-led decisionmaking becomes more important.

Unless there is a strong confidence in the data, smarter decisions become harder to make.

ACQUIRE’S GIM SUITE IS A GEOLOGICAL DATA MANAGEMENT SOLUTION USED TO CAPTURE AND MANAGE DATA ACCURATELY AND EFFICIENTLY.

SMARTER DECISIONS BECOME HARDER TO MAKE WITHOUT STRONG CONFIDENCE IN YOUR DATA.

All the data in the world is useless if a company can’t trust the numbers.

“GIM Suite helps mining companies effectively and accurately manage their data from the first drillhole all the way through to the decommissioning of a mine,” Atkins said. acQuire began development of GIM Suite, its flagship software product, in 1996 in response to requests for custom-built solutions for managing large volumes of data.

“Every company, even back then, had their own way of using data to locate resources – and that’s where things get complicated,” Atkins said.

“So the idea was born to create a configurable software product with a standardised data model.”

More than 25 years later, GIM Suite has been implemented in some of the world’s largest mining sites for a wide range of commodities and domains.

“We have strong and longterm customer relationships and view ourselves as partners to our customers,” Atkins said.

A particularly useful feature of GIM Suite is that it is a configurable software. This means works well across a broad range of companies, from mid-tier to major miners.

GIM Suite becomes the single source and can manage data from drillholes, surface sampling, coal quality, or hydrogeological monitoring observations, along with a range of other applications.

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DIGITAL MINING

“Customers know they can have confidence in their data and operate from a single source of truth when using our software,” Atkins said.

Those working in the field or pit on their mobile devices can also rely on GIM Suite to manage their data, as acQuire continues to expand the software’s capability into web and mobile.

“We’re continuing to provide a more seamless workflow and an improved user experience,” Atkins said.

“We’re starting to get some great feedback around the direction we’re taking with GIM Suite.”

Data collected from a mine site is of the upmost importance when it

comes to governance and compliance.

GIM suite allows users to report quickly and accurately, eliminating the need for retrospective justification of data.

And it’s not just in governance and compliance where accuracy is crucial. Handover of data is extremely useful for informing decisionmakers about how an entire team is progressing and finding any areas that may cause a problem before that problem even occurs.

“Data handover occurs across the entire mine, it’s not just the geoscientist that need confidence in data,” Atkins said. “Every team on the mine that uses data to make operational decisions relies on timely

handover, relying on an accurate chain of custody.”

When a company understands its project to the fullest degree, costs are saved and production is optimised. acQuire will continue to develop and strengthen GIM Suite to enable all of its customers to feel the full benefits. Along with continuing to improve capabilities in the web and mobile spaces, there are plans for improved connectivity and customer experience.

“We’ve invested in a continual cycle of research and development,” Atkins said.

“Our experience in this field ensures we deliver a solution that is

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optimised for a company’s workflows and fit-for-purpose enterprise geological data management.”

Living in a generation of data means that acQuire’s ability to grow its systems is uncompromised.

Volume and types of data will only continue to grow and acQuire has focused on the connectedness and interoperability of its systems to grow with the data.

“Companies want to know they are working with systems and data that they can trust and that will grow with them,” Atkins said.

There is little doubt GIM Suite will continue to grow and provide peace of mind in data management for many mining companies to come. AM

DIGITAL MINING

DIGITAL MULTIMETERS ENHANCE SAFETY AND EFFICIENCY IN MINING GETTING SAFE AND ACCURATE ELECTRICAL READINGS IS VITAL ON A MINE SITE, AND FLUKE AUSTRALIA’S DIGITAL MULTIMETERS HELP MINERS DO JUST THAT.

W

hen people think of safety concerns in the mining industry, their minds might go to things like rock falls, equipment failures, or roll-overs. But electrics is another critical safety aspect that shouldn’t be overlooked.

The sector covers a wide range of operations that rely on the use of electrical power, so ensuring the safety of workers and equipment is vital.

Fortunately, there’s a series of devices that can help to take the guesswork out of this safety concern: Fluke’s digital multimeters.

A type of test tool used to measure two or more electrical values, digital multimeters are critical tools used to maintain a stable and continuous operation in mining.

Whether it’s coal, precious or nonprecious metals, aggregates, sand, or stone, there is a Fluke multimeter out there for every need.

“Fluke multimeters are the gold standard,” Fluke’s senior product manager, Sam Mangion told Australian Mining. “They can be beneficial for a large range of uses.”

One of these uses is onsite maintenance, testing and troubleshooting. Fluke has a range of different multimeters from which

FLUKE MULTIMETERS ARE CRITICAL TOOLS USED TO ENSURE A SAFE MINING OPERATION.

choose depending on the needs of the individual using it.

Many of Fluke’s digital multimeters can fit snuggly in the user’s pocket, including the Fluke 233 Remote Display Multimeter. This is a great option for on-site testing, as it features a removeable wireless display, allowing users to effectively be in two places at once.

“This gives you the flexibility to take measurements in hard-to-reach places, or in areas with restricted access,” Mangion said.

Another important feature of multimeters is the ability to log the data they collect. Fluke offers two units that can connect with its software – the Fluke 279 FC True-RMS Thermal Multimeter and the Fluke 3000 FC Series Wireless Multimeter.

Both devices can link with Fluke Connect, a software developed to gather and store recorded data in the cloud, enabling fast and easy access no matter the user’s location.

Linking multimeters to Fluke Connect provides a safer, hands-free approach to the necessity of proper data storage in the mining industry. It reduces the need for bulky clipboards and eliminates discrepancies, keeping workers safe.

“People who work in mining know how unforgiving and potentially dangerous these environments can be,” Mangion said.

“It is critical to maintain stable, continuous operations without sacrificing safety or quality.”

Accuracy and toughness are integral features for Fluke’s multimeters, as they withstand the often-harsh Australian mining environments. Each multimeter is tested to the extreme, from drops to shocks to humidity.

Not only are they subject to rigorous testing to ensure their ruggedness, but all Fluke multimeters are able to withstand transients, minimising the worker risk in high-voltage, highcurrent areas.

Knowing what voltage levels a mine is working with is an essential aspect to choosing the right multimeter.

“Different digital multimeters have different resolutions. Some of them can read milliamps, millivolts or even further,” Mangion said.

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FLUKE MULTIMETERS FIT EASILY INTO POCKETS, PROVIDING ON-THE-GO EFFICIENCY.

Another key feature of Fluke’s multimeters is that most have the functionality for true root mean square (RMS) readings. True-RMS readings are essential for accurately measuring alternating current (AC) voltages and currents.

This is important because TrueRMS devices will provide workers with better readings, which will pay off in the long run when the power quality data is analysed.

Since its founding in 1948, Fluke has continued to grow and develop its digital tools to make working in the mining industry easier. Staying on top of the game helps the company deliver tools and solutions that work.

Continually developing technology means planning for the future with upcoming releases, including a new Laser Shaft Alignment Tool and a new best-in-class Thermal Imaging Camera perfect for harsh and demanding environments. Both products build on the already strong reputation of the company’s digital multimeters.

It doesn’t matter if a site is using tried and tested tools or the next game-changer; users of Fluke’s products can rest assured that they are in good hands.

With a reputation for portability, ruggedness, safety, ease of use, and high standards, customers can trust Fluke to handle whatever challenges the industry throws at it. AM

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TECHNOLOGY

DRIVING COLLABORATION IN THE METS SECTOR TECHNOLOGY IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING IN THE MINING INDUSTRY, AND NO ONE KNOWS THAT BETTER THAN AUSTMINE.

F

rom digitisation to automation, the way the mining industry operates is constantly shifting as a result of changes and improvements in technology.

No one knows this better than Austmine, a company that has been supporting the Australian mining equipment, technology, and services (METS) sector for over three decades.

As ore grades get lower and essential inputs become difficult to access, there are a lot of challenges to mitigate in the sector. But incorporating new or updated technologies can help to overcome these kinds of obstacles.

“With a focus on decarbonisation, climate change and ESG (environmental, social and governance), it’s really only technologies that are going to be able to help the mining industry reach their goals and targets,” Austmine chief executive officer Christine Gibbs Stewart told Australian Mining.

In addition to these industry challenges, new mining technology can take up to 15 years to be introduced into the value chain, a veritable lifetime for smaller companies that may not have the financial resources of larger players.

This is where Austmine can help.

“We open up that conversation between the METS companies

AUSTMINE HAS BEEN SUPPORTING NEW MINING TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT FOR OVER 30 YEARS.

and mining customers,” Gibbs Stewart said.

“We do that so that companies understand the customer’s needs and we look at different ways they can collaborate. By taking a collaborative approach, obstacles can be overcome.”

All new technologies need to be tested and proven before being integrated with legacy systems. Once the technology is ready to go, smaller companies may have trouble accessing the right people to discuss the new system and how it can help them.

Austmine can support these smaller companies in finding the right contacts

to pull that technology through for them, or by alleviating barriers related to integration.

Austmine has been facilitating conversations between mining companies and customers since being founded in 1989. It has since grown to include international programs, networking events, and conferences.

One of biggest events on the Austmine biennial calendar is its world-leading mining International Conference and Exhibition. Another key program for Austmine is its Innovation Mentoring Program, which helps the next generation learn what

AUSTMINE PROVIDES MANY OPPORTUNITIES FOR ITS MEMBERS TO NETWORK, SUCH AS THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION.

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innovation means to their customers and, in turn, how to enact that within their own company.

Providing its assets has allowed Austmine to be a champion in the METS sector, driving industry collaboration and helping its members to succeed.

“Our purpose is to support our members and change the perception around mining,” Gibbs Stewart said.

“We want to attract new people to work in the mining industry and let the public know that mining is much more than what they see in the media.”

Mining has come a long way in just the last decade, especially in terms of the technologies used throughout the sector.

Ten years ago, for example, the industry was just starting to see the introduction of semi-autonomous systems. Now, miners have deployed fully autonomous systems at scale and can benefit from real-time data to help make decisions faster.

Remote operations have been another big change for the industry.

Remote operation centres (ROCs) have presented companies with the ability to operate their mines from above the surface – or even from thousands of kilometres away.

These new technologies can help companies cement their strategies in the short, medium, and longer term, and Austmine is available to help them obtain what they need in order to achieve these goals.

“We direct people to specific contacts or programs,” Gibbs Stewart said. “We point our customers in the right direction to make doing business easier, link them to domestic and international opportunities and ensure that they are successful.”

There is no doubt the technologies in the mining industry – like any other industry – will continue to develop in the coming years. For Austmine, a large aspect of this will mean helping customers with solutions for reducing their overall footprint and contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions.

“We are very proud to represent the Australian METS sector,” Gibbs Stewart said.

“Our job and our purpose is to champion the sector and to continue to be the best in the world.” AM

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DIGITAL MINING

TRANSFORMING DATA INTO VALUE FOR MINING OPERATIONS INDUSTRIAL ANALYTICS SOFTWARE LEADER AVEVA PIONEERS INNOVATIONS THAT EMPOWER INDUSTRY LEADERS TO OPTIMISE VALUE, EFFICIENCY AND SUSTAINABILITY. NEARLY EVERY ASPECT OF A MINING OPERATION CAN BE MONITORED AND STORED AS DATA, AND THAT DATA CAN IMPROVE EFFICIENCY AND BOLSTER PRODUCTIVITY.

M

ining companies have historically operated within the bounds of organisational silos that uphold a knowledge gap between the mines, processing facilities, and logistics.

But in the age of the digital mine, there is an increasing need for solutions that can provide end-to-end visibility when identifying hidden inefficiencies present within an organisation, according to AVEVA head of digital strategy Tim Sowell.

A report produced by AVEVA in partnership with Forrester revealed that a lack of an end-to-end integrated solution capabilities has resulted in 23 per cent greater costs to the industry, as well as an average of 11 hours of unnecessary time and labour per employee spent on manual and repetitive tasks.

The rising global demand for minerals and raw materials has further incentivised mining companies to expedite the adoption of a successful digital strategy that includes data being readily accessible from the top-down.

Yet, according to Sowell, many mining organisations have been slow to succeed due to the challenge of

alignment of many data sources in implementing ways to aggregate and simplify the vast amounts of operational data that comes with implementing these solutions.

“Nearly every aspect of a mining organisation’s operations can now be monitored and historied into volumes of big data, which is why securing data ownership and increasing enterprise data literacy is imperative for the success of mining operations in the new data-driven culture,” he said.

“There is a growing need to create, acquire and transfer data that can aid in collaboration and improve operational efficiency and bolster productivity.”

Fortunately, the latest advancements in mining

digitalisation technology, automation, and the Internet of Things (IoT) have made sensory monitoring, data storage and increased computer power more accessible and cost-effective than ever before.

But the question remains: how can mining companies transform big data into value?

As a global leader in industrial analytics software, AVEVA is working to help mining companies stay ahead of the curve with the recent addition of the PI System – a foundational data aggregation software geared toward industrial applications – to its portfolio of digital solutions.

Before implementing predictive analytics, it’s critical to first address the foundational layer of data required to generate predictive asset models.

“Machine-learning and artificial intelligence (AI) are only as good as the data underlying the analysis,” Sowell said. “Executing a successful analytics strategy means having the ability to manage and curate data to ensure quality, integration, accessibility, and security.

“In plants and operational environments, the PI System serves as a data source for predictive analytics software by integrating and harmonising multiple streams of data, ensuring that the data is cleansed, accurate and structured for predictive analytics to perform effectively.”

According to Sowell, predictive analytics give mining organisations a better understanding of the knowns and unknowns of an asset based on past behaviour.

TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS HAVE MADE DATA STORAGE AND INCREASED COMPUTER POWER MORE ACCESSIBLE AND COST-EFFECTIVE THAN EVER.

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“By reducing data silos with our PI System, mining organisations will have greater visibility of critical information and operational data available across their business, enabling them to respond immediately to operational issues and garner foresight for critical business decisions,” he said.

AVEVA’s modelling software uses predictive analytics technology and AI to enable multi-variant modelling of assets. Advanced pattern recognition and machine-learning are then deployed to monitor an asset in real-time and identify anomalies in how it’s performing.

Potential operating issues are then identified, diagnosed, and remediated days or weeks before failures can occur.

When it comes to implementing the PI System and predictive analytics software, Sowell recommends mining organisations start small with their initiatives by laying out a pilot project with specific and measurable objectives.

“A small pilot project can jumpstart an organisation’s digital journey and provide immediate results in terms of improving operational efficiency and reducing costs,” he said.

“Furthermore, this will foster the creation of systems for the future that leverage rich historied data models into new opportunities that can be unlocked by the expansion to Industrial Information as a Service.

“By harnessing the power of their data and predictive modelling, mining organisations will be able to scale their operations to new levels of agility and flexibility.” AM

19-21 July 2022

Mackay Showgrounds Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition

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ENHANCED EXPERIENCE AT ALTRA MOTION VIRTUAL EXHIBIT THE VIRTUAL EXHIBIT, WHICH SHOWCASES PRODUCTS FROM ALTRA MOTION’S 26 BRANDS IN AN IMMERSIVE EXTENDED REALITY ENVIRONMENT, IS MORE INSIGHTFUL AND FUNCTIONAL THAN EVER BEFORE.

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ltra Motion has recently enhanced the scope and functionality of its virtual exhibit booth.

The immersive and interactive trade show environment provides visitors around the world with convenient 24–7 access to browse the extensive portfolio of motion control and power transmission products offered by Altra Motion’s 26 global brands.

The exhibit features brakes, clutches, couplings, drives, gearing, limit switches, linear actuators, motors, bearings and more, all designed for use in a wide variety of challenging applications.

Interactive product category kiosks are located in each major section of the exhibit. Users can select specific Altra Motion brands on each kiosk which reveal a series of product family hotspots that link to specific product screens where related literature PDFs and 3D models can be downloaded.

A media tower features links to various videos as well as the Altra Motion literature portal.

For example, within the Automation and Specialty section of the exhibit, if a user was to select the product category, Linear Systems, they could explore the offerings of Altra Motion brands, Thomson and Nook Industries.

The Thomson brand is a globally recognised and trusted producer of high-quality motion control technology, while Nook, which Altra Motion acquired in January 2022, is a leader in the US

THE VIRTUAL EXHIBIT FEATURES NINE MAJOR SECTIONS.

engineered linear motion industry.

New additions to the exhibit include detailed 3D virtual application environments for the mining, water/wastewater and oil and gas industries.

Visitors can explore an oil rig and surface ship; an underground mine, a surface mine and processing area; as well as a complete wastewater treatment plant.

By clicking on various highlighted applications, visitors can instantly view relevant brands and products.

Also new is an Innovation Spotlight area, which will be updated monthly to showcase a technically advanced Altra Motion product.

The Warner Electric Sensor (WES) was front and centre in June. This contactless monitoring solution provides reliable detection of the smallest strokes, especially on springapplied brakes with noise dampening systems.

Visitors to the recently added Auditorium can view an extensive library of Altra Motion webinars and presentations in a virtual room.

An informative recent webinar explores the topic, ‘installing for best efficiency’ and takes a closer look at the impact product installation can have on the efficiency of a drivetrain.

Another webinar is focused on the topic ‘maintaining products for best efficiency’. Using a variety of Altra Motion products as examples, this webinar highlights different ways users can maintain their products, and how this can improve and maintain the efficiency of an operation.

The Auditorium also includes a contact form for direct enquiries.

Alongside Thomson, Nook and Warner Electric, other industryleading Altra Motion brands featured in the virtual exhibition

THE THREE MINING VERTICALS WITHIN THE VIRTUAL EXHIBIT.

include Ameridrives, Bauer Gear Motor, Bibby Turboflex, Boston Gear, Delroyd Worm Gear, Formsprag Clutch, Guardian Couplings and Huco.

Kilian is also featured in the exhibition alongside Kollmorgen, Lamiflex Couplings, Marland Clutch, Matrix, Nuttall Gear, Portescap, Stieber, Stromag, Svendborg Brakes, TB Wood’s, Twiflex, and Wichita Clutch.

Altra Motion is a premier global designer and producer of a wide range of motion control and power transmission solutions.

With engineered components and systems that provide essential control of equipment speed, torque, positioning, and other functions, Altra Motion products are utilised in thousands of machines, processes and applications involving motion all over the world.

Alongside its products, Altra Motion Australia also offers an esteemed service division represented by facilities in Sydney (NSW), Perth (WA) and Mackay (Qld).

The company also plans to open a new strategically facility in Newcastle (NSW).

The Newcastle facility will be led by NSW service manager, Craig Kelly, who has been involved in the bulk handling industry throughout his career and is very familiar with the region. AM Visit Altra Motion’s virtual exhibit booth at http://altraex.com.

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ON-SITE SAFETY

FOUR-DRINK LIMIT: NEW ON-SITE ALCOHOL GUIDELINE A NEWLY RELEASED GUIDE FOR ON-SITE ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES IN WA COULD HAVE EFFECTS ACROSS THE INDUSTRY.

T

he Chamber of Minerals and Energy of WA (CME) and its member companies introduced the ‘Safe and Respectful Behaviours – Industry Alcohol Guideline’ in May. The guideline sets out a series of management and education requirements that outline how alcohol consumption is to be treated at accommodation facilities.

It builds on drug and alcohol policies that have already been implemented across the mining industry’s workplaces, providing further consideration towards workadjacent environments.

CME director of policy and advocacy Rob Carruthers said the guideline reflected best practice for the physical and phycological

wellbeing of the more than 60,000 fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) workers housed in Western Australia, along with the broader mining sector.

“This guideline represents a significant milestone in our sector’s work to be as safe as possible at all times,” Carruthers said.

Over the past six months, CME’s Safe and Respectful Behaviours Working Group has heavily focused on the guideline, which includes: • implementation of a four-drink limit for accommodation residents over a 24-hour period, including takeaway limitations • prohibition of alcohol served in a form that encourages rapid consumption, such as shots or double servings • ensuring varied drink-strength

options are available, along with non-alcoholic options and water that is freely available • e nsuring the availability of food options wherever alcohol is served •p romoting a culture of moderation and healthy choices • e ducation on the alcohol policy and on the harmful effects of alcohol consumption.

Carruthers explained that while several CME member companies have implemented their own alcohol guidelines over the years, it was important to have an industry-wide structure in place.

“The industry-wide guidance can be used at any operation, driving healthy behaviours that encourage a culture of moderation,” he said.

THE GUIDELINE INCLUDES A FOUR-DRINK LIMIT FOR ACCOMMODATION RESIDENTS OVER A 24-HOUR PERIOD.

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“We have a strong resolve to provide safe and inclusive workspaces for all of the sector’s 156,000-plus employees.”

The past 18 months has seen the ‘Parliamentary inquiry into sexual harassment against women in the FIFO mining industry’ continue, and this was another key factor in the alcohol guideline implementation.

Along with the experience of CME member companies’ work around alcohol, the guideline also features input from 360Edge, an independent drug and alcohol consultancy in Australia and New Zealand.

360Edge’s approach consists of tailored solutions to the industries with which it works, clear change plans, and measurable outcomes.

“With their expertise across a range of sectors, 360Edge were able to provide invaluable advice on what best practice in alcohol consumption should look like,” Carruthers said.

The guideline will be rolled out across the sector in the coming months, with some CME member companies adopting elements of it straight away.

However, CME understands that not all of their 75-plus member companies will be in the position to implement the guideline immediately, and has promised to work with those companies to get it up and running.

“Those that can practically implement it immediately will do so, but operations run in all shapes and sizes in WA and some may not be in a logistical position to practically implement the guideline straight away,” Carruthers said.

“The guideline will take a period of time to achieve broadscale implementation; however, it demonstrates a clear industry-wide commitment to raise standards.”

Carruthers expressed that CME was more than happy for companies not under the organisation’s official banner to also make use of the guideline.

“The ultimate aim for the guideline is that it helps WA mining and resources achieve positive safety and inclusion objectives,” he said.

“We will happily share it and the research behind it with other advocacy groups in the sector.” AM

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

A MODULAR APPROACH TO POWER GENERATION NUCLEAR POWER HAS LONG BEEN ABSENT FROM AUSTRALIA’S ENERGY MIX, BUT AS THE TECHNOLOGY EVOLVES AND DIVERSIFIES DOES IT HAVE A FUTURE AS A ZERO-CARBON ENERGY ALTERNATIVE FOR THE MINING INDUSTRY?

W

hile Australia has never had its own nuclear power station, the prospect of introducing the contentious energy source has been a topic of public debate since the 1950s.

Current legislation is definitive: nuclear power stations are banned in every Australian state and territory.

Beyond such regulations, many consider the construction timelines of a nuclear power station a major obstacle – it can take more than a decade to build a commercial-scale plant – and the price tag can potentially run into the tens of billions.

On a more human level, people have often indicated they’re unlikely to forget the potential for disasters like those in Chernobyl, Ukraine, and Fukushima, Japan, while nuclear waste and its long-term disposal remains a major environmental concern.

The idea of nuclear power in Australia is also affected by a sustained aversion to nuclear weapons.

Politically speaking, the Australian Liberal Party has historically been amenable to nuclear power, while the Labor Party has been opposed.

However, new Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is supportive the AUKUS agreement that former Prime Minister Scott Morrison established

alongside the US and the UK in September 2021. AUKUS is a trilateral security pact that will see Australia build nuclear-propelled submarines.

NUCLEAR POWER IS A MAJOR PLAYER IN MANY COUNTRIES’ ENERGY MIX, BUT IT SEEMINGLY REMAINS A LONG WAY OFF IN AUSTRALIA.

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The AUKUS agreement was introduced to allow for greater sharing of defence capabilities among the three nations, with the long-term security of

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

NUCLEAR POWER HAS TRADITIONALLY BEEN NEGATIVELY ASSOCIATED WITH NUCLEAR WEAPONS, BUT AUSTRALIA’S BI-PARTISAN SUPPORT OF THE AUKUS AGREEMENT COULD SIGNAL A CHANGE IN THAT THINKING.

Australia – one that could prove useful for the mining industry.

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the Indo-Pacific region a key priority.

Shortly after his appointment as Prime Minister, Albanese reportedly spoke with British counterpart Boris Johnson about the potential expansion of the AUKUS agreement.

“The (UK) Prime Minister said he thought the trilateral grouping could go further together in other domains,

where both countries could collaborate for the global good,” a statement from Johnson’s office read.

With AUKUS embraced by Albanese, the next step will be establishing local frameworks and expertise to construct nuclear subs.

This could pave the way for another nuclear product to be trialled in

A miniature version of a nuclear power plant, small modular reactors (SMRs) and very small modular reactors (vSMRs), are increasing in stature.

These units have received the endorsement of the Minerals Council of Australia (MCA), an association that has long been an advocate for nuclear power. In a 2021 report, the MCA said SMRs could be Australia’s lowest cost 24–7 zero-emission energy source.

According to Hatch general manager of power for Australasia Steve Bond, SMRs and vSMRs have the potential to provide a viable energy alternative.

“If you’re looking at the decarbonisation of the mining industry – which is the big focus – the challenge is that balance of renewable energy and getting reliable renewable energy and energy storage systems in that space,” he told Australian Mining.

“SMRs offer an extra tool in the toolbox, and this is the way to consider it. It’s not a situation of one thing or the other; if a mining company does not have the appropriate resource, this offers a solution.”

On June 6, new federal opposition leader Peter Dutton discussed “the small modular nuclear generation, which can power up to 100,000 houses” when speaking with Radio National.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

SMRS HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO PROVIDE MINE SITES WITH A VIABLE ZEROCARBON ENERGY ALTERNATIVE.

“I don’t think we should be afraid to talk about any technology that’s going to have the ability to reduce emissions and electricity prices,” he said. “I don’t think we should

rule things out simply because it’s unfashionable to talk about them.”

The comments came as Australia endured a natural gas shortage to start winter, with supply unable to keep up with a rising demand for the fossil fuel.

According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), there are more than 70 SMR designs under development in 18 countries, including the US, the UK, Japan, South Africa, Korea, and Argentina.

Not only are they quicker and less capital-intensive to build than a nuclear power plant, but they’re safer, easily transportable, and scalable to meet specific energy requirements.

A machine that is a fraction of the size of a nuclear power plant would be able to differentiate itself by default, but that’s exactly the concern facing nuclear-hesitant jurisdictions.

More size means more risk.

Bond said the primary role of SMRs and vSMRs would be to generate reliable, 24–7 zero-carbon electricity, a precious commodity in a remote mining environment.

“They’re not dependent on the natural resource,” he said. “If you’re in a location that gets good solar days and not much wind, you might need a solution when the sun goes down. If you’re somewhere that’s got good wind but not much solar, then you could be faced with a similar predicament.

“SMRs and vSMRs are 24–7; they’re going to run the same as a conventional fossil-fuel fired power station and they’re not dependent on the natural resource.”

SMR modules have a similar capacity to many of the generators incorporated within Australia’s existing coal- and gas-fired power plants, meaning users wouldn’t lose out on scale.

“The SMRs offer around 300 megawatts (in power), while the vSMRs offer around 15 megawatts,” Bond said. “A lot of mines would typically run big reciprocating engines and the vSMRs would sit in that space – that 5–15-megawatt space. The SMRs will be analogous with some of the bigger mines that have got combined-cycle gas turbine plants or something of that nature.”

SMRs have a potential operating life of at least 40 years and can be safely decommissioned.

“Because of the modular nature of these machines, you can move them around, which means you don’t have to do a lot of work with them in-situ,” Bond said.

“As a mine grows, the machine can move with it, but equally, at the end of life you can take them away and process them in a safe environment.

“This is a significant difference to a nuclear power station which will stay there and needs to be handled in-situ.

This is what we’re seeing with the nukes that were built in the 1970s.”

The AUKUS agreement means Australia’s nuclear power prospects could be looking different than in the past. Bond recognises that there’s still a journey ahead before SMRs and vSMRs can be a viable option under current legislation.

But the opportunity may exist and there’s no harm in entertaining discussions around feasibility.

“A lot of people are starting to think about it and starting to look at it seriously, and I think it’s time we have a healthy dialogue,” Bond said.

“We’ve got a lot of Commonwealth friends that have been through this, and a healthy dialogue can help us learn and address those legislative and regulation issues efficiently.

Bond said dialogue could also extend to the public, where education can explore the reduced footprint and practicality of SMRs and vSMRs. “We’re not talking about large power stations to displace the likes of Origin Energy’s Eraring (coalfired power plant), which recently announced its closure,” he said.

“We’re talking about small machines sitting in remote locations that will quietly do their thing.

“And when they come to the end of their life you put them on a truck and throw them away and process them properly.” AM

THE INTERNATIONAL ATOMIC ENERGY AGENCY SAYS THERE ARE MORE THAN 70 SMALL MODULAR REACTOR DESIGNS UNDER DEVELOPMENT IN 18 COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD.

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LIGHTING

ILLUMINATING MINE SITES FOR YEARS ON END ATLAS COPCO’S HILIGHT B6+ LIGHT TOWER IS A MARKET-LEADING PRODUCT KNOWN FOR ITS VERSATILITY AND COMPACT DESIGN. AUSTRALIAN MINING EXPLORES ITS MOST NOTABLE ATTRIBUTES.

F

rom dawn to dusk, the mining industry doesn’t stop, with companies operating 24–7 to meet production targets and maintain their competitive edge.

Lighting is critical to keep operations ticking on the surface and underground and, as a trusted distributor of world-renowned manufacturer, Atlas Copco, Atlas CEA has a market-leading product that can illuminate mine sites for years on end.

Since Atlas Copco’s HiLight range was launched more than a decade ago, it has constantly evolved and now boasts models spanning LED (lightemitting diode), metal halide, electric, and battery variations.

“Several years ago, a light tower was considered a simple commodity product with limited life expectancy,” Atlas CEA business development manager Mark Scuglia said in a statement.

“Today, however, the Atlas Copco HiLight range offers a new level of durability and value with a multitude

ATLAS COPCO’S HILIGHT RANGE NOW BOASTS MODELS SPANNING LED, METAL HALIDE, ELECTRIC, AND BATTERY VARIATIONS.

of options for customers and a clear value proposition that fits with their needs. No longer do buyers need to compromise by settling for a one-sizefits-all solution.”

With a reputation for its research and development (R&D) capability, Atlas Copco has put its stamp on LED technology with its HiLight range boasting optics specifically designed for construction and mining operations.

This fully directional lens design enables operators to maximise light coverage and reduce “lighting waste”.

Comprising four LED floodlights – each capable of projecting 350 watts of light – the HiLight range is able to illuminate an area of up to 6000m² at 20 luxes (brightness) average.

A popular member of the HiLight range, the B6+ has proved particularly popular in the mining industry and has become known for its versatility and extended continuous autonomy, with 50,000 light hours life expectancy.

This product not only delivers on the luminosity front but is also a key performer when it comes to efficiency, durability and safety. The HiLight

B6+ has a fuel consumption of 0.67 litres per hour, which not only saves on diesel costs but also improves an operation’s environmental credentials.

The life expectancy of the product is at least 50,000 hours, while the product can run for 185 hours at a time, meaning operations can remain illuminated for more than a week from a single unit before it needs to be refuelled.

The Atlas Copco range is not only globally recognised for its product quality but also its compact design. A 13m truck can deliver 22 B6+ units in a single trip, increasing the transport efficiency of the light tower and further reducing its environmental footprint.

This also caters for easy installation, which Atlas CEA supports with its comprehensive service team across its branches in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.

But the company’s service capability doesn’t stop there.

“We also have dealers throughout Australia to help support the extensive range of equipment operating across the country, and some of the

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maintenance can be done by your local or site mechanic if the requirement arises,” Scuglia said.

“We have local parts distribution as well as our national distribution centre in Sydney supplying parts throughout Australia.

“Then we also have Atlas Copco for support. They’ve been around for over 170 years specialising in construction and mining equipment.

“So we have a pretty high presence of service, parts, and technical support throughout Australia.”

Atlas Copco’s HiLight B6+ is one of 11 LED light towers in the HiLight range, which has evolved to include the first-ever battery-powered light tower.

The solar-powered HiLight S2+ produces zero noise, zero CO2 emissions and uses zero fuel, enabling customers to reduce their CO2 emissions by up to six tonnes when compared to traditional technologies.

The S2+ is another exponent of Atlas Copco’s penchant for innovation, something which shows no signs of slowing down as the mining industry continues to evolve. AM

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RESEARCH AND INDUSTRY BODIES COME TOGETHER FOR IMPC ASIA PACIFIC IN-PERSON EVENTS ARE BACK AND BETTER THAN EVER. AUSTRALIAN MINING CHATS WITH IMPC CONFERENCE CHAIR RALPH HOLMES ABOUT WHAT TO EXPECT FROM IMPC ASIA PACIFIC 2022.

A

usIMM and the CSIRO will come together to present IMPC Asia Pacific 2022 in August. Held in Melbourne and online, the conference brings together global delegates to share best practice and knowledge in mineral processing.

The conference is a great chance for people to attend an in-person event, with 300-plus attendees keen to reconnect and share their wisdom.

“We would encourage people to attend the conference in-person if they are able to. It’s a great opportunity for networking,” conference chair Ralph Holmes told Australian Mining.

The theme of this year’s conference, ‘From Ideas to Implementation’, will see keynote speakers and approved papers examine topics such as reducing waste and energy consumption.

But the main topic of conversation will surround the mineral processing industry.

“There’s an ongoing challenge for the mineral industry, which is pretty important to society,” Holmes said.

“It’s an appropriate topic as we face global warming and the prospect of net-zero.”

To tackle such a complex topic, the IMPC (International Minerals Processing Council) committee asked for submissions from the global community that focused on industry challenges, future operations, and advances in mineral processing.

This will enable IMPC attendees to benefit from the knowledge of more than 350 fully refereed papers and extended abstracts, multiple keynote speakers and a technical program showcasing the latest innovations and thinking in mineral processing.

“There’s a big focus on the environmental aspect,” Holmes said.

“We need to minimise environmental impact, which is an industry challenge, and we need people with the right sort of skills to

mine in an environmentally friendly way for future operations.

“We also need new ideas and developments for mineral processing.”

Mineral processing professionals including plant, operations and delivery managers, metallurgists, geologists, academics, and decisionmakers will be in attendance to discuss the latest in technologies and innovations.

Holmes expressed his excitement to be able to explore the different exhibits in-person, and his particular interest in pre-concentration and sorting. Rather than crushing everything that is dug up and trying to extract minerals from it, this process involves sorting occurring from the outset. This sees waste rock or low-grade minerals rejected before the expensive and timely process of grinding and extraction begins.

“Anything along the lines of pre-concentration is interesting to me,” Holmes said. “And anything to do with energy reduction is also

IMPC ASIA PACIFIC IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR THOSE IN THE INDUSTRY TO COME TOGETHER AND NETWORK. IMAGE: BHP

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important. Crushing and grinding are huge consumers of energy and so I’m excited to discuss opportunities to reduce this.”

Those who want a more formal opportunity to learn more about these issues can look forward to hearing from esteemed industry experts in their keynote addresses: Ausenco chief technical officer Greg Lane; Queensland Resources Council chief executive Ian Macfarlane; BHP head of sustainability innovation Ingrid Oyarzún Olave; BHP Olympic Dam’s superintendent geometallurgy Kathy Ehrig; and WA School of Mines head Professor Michael Hitch.

Each speaker brings a wealth of knowledge from different parts of the industry, such as the future of Queensland mining from Macfarlane, industry sustainability from Olave, and zero discharge and reducing the mining footprint from Hitch.

Bringing together research bodies and industry was an important consideration for the conference committee, especially when it leads to the development and implementation of new mineral processing technologies.

Collaboration could come in the form of funding or research into industry needs, which is why the conference focuses on research papers along with industry talks and exhibits.

It enables the research and industry sectors to come together to discuss what is needed and how each can help the other.

“Collaboration is critical, and it helps us to focus on what we actually do,” Holmes said. “You’ve got a customer already lined up and the research is useful and focused.”

The IMPC Asia-Pacific 2022 will be held from August 22–24 at Crown Promenade Melbourne. The conference will also be streamed online, but those who can attend in person are encouraged to do so.

“It’s a great opportunity to network,” Holmes said. “We’re encouraging people to toss off the shackles and come and see us in Melbourne at the end of August.” AM

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ineral processing can be a complex process. Rock types and shapes shift for each different mine site, energy efficiency and maintenance costs must be front-of-

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told Australian Mining. “With assistance from our engineers, we collaborate with our clients to select the correct machine.” thyssenkrupp has focused on four machines that are integral to Australia’s hard rock mining climate: gyratory crushers, vibrating grizzly

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Customers looking to increase efficiency in blasted hard rock crushing can turn to thyssenkrupp’s gyratory crushers. The latest Pro machines are backed by the company’s 15-plus years’ experience of successfully operating these machines around the globe.

Vibrating grizzly feeders, the backbone of primary scalping in the Australian iron ore industry, are the perfect machines for anyone after a robust and long-lasting feeder.

“These machines have been in primary crushing circuits for many years, proving their robust design and efficiency in handling whatever our clients throw at them,” Bennett said.

ERCS CAN BE USED FOR A WIDE RANGE OF MINING APPLICATIONS.

The eccentric roll crusher is an ideal choice for users after a machine suitable for a wide array of mining applications. Suitable for underground mines or in mobile or semi-mobile crushing plants in open-pit mining, the eccentric roll crusher boasts a high throughput rate of 8000 metric tonnes per hour and is available in five configurations.

These machines are all backed by thyssenkrupp’s decades of experience and field work; however, it is the high-pressure grind rolls that provide the ultimate in hard rock crushing. These machines are supported with a dedicated servicing workshop, featuring the heavy machinery necessary for quality repair works. “thyssenkrupp have been at the forefront of the high-pressure grind rolls technology in mining,” Bennett said. “Continual improvement of the machines has increased efficiencies, reduced downtime, and helped in the reduction of our clients cost per tonne.”

Combining these machines with efficient, helpful, and timely customer service has helped thyssenkrupp stay ahead of the game in mining technology. The service doesn’t stop just because a customer has chosen a machine.

After the machines are installed, thyssenkrupp offers full turnkey solutions. The company’s established service centres in Port Hedland (WA), Henderson (WA), and Mackay (Qld) help thyssenkrupp to offer a full range of after sales services, including field service, spare parts, and workshop rebuilds.

“After-sales support is a significant part of our works in Australia,” Bennett said.

“We have led the commitment to our installed equipment with the investment into our service centres and spare parts holding.”

Mining is not a stagnant industry, as required throughput, service intervals, and ore types can change quickly, and thyssenkrupp offers continual review of installed equipment to enable increased performance and reduced power consumption. Reviewing the equipment includes liner profiling, material composition changes and design improvements.

Additionally, customers can access off-site repair capabilities and the service centres are always available to offer additional support.

“We are able to support port and mine operations with rapid turnaround times for shutdown and equipment repair, and also

VIBRATING GRIZZLY FEEDERS ARE THE PERFECT ROBUST FEEDER.

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support clients in their ongoing asset management,” thyssenkrupp chief sales officer and director of service Uwe Zulehner said. thyssenkrupp’s strong commitment to mining machines and the clients who use them means customers keep coming back for more. Bennett said this repeat business had been a real driver in the company’s mineral processing portfolio.

“The best feedback is when our clients come back to us for repeat orders because the existing machine is performing so well,” he said. “They tell us how much our machines are overperforming based on their initial installation details.”

Zulehner said the company was excited to continue strengthening these relationships.

“Only with a clear understanding of the challenges on the sites can we continue to reduce shutdown times and provide technical solutions to increase machine performance and operational uptime,” he added.

Although thyssenkrupp is a global company, it has been a strong presence in Australian mining for generations. This experience, and the company’s drive to continually improve for its clients, has made thyssenkrupp a powerhouse in mining machinery. AM

ELECTRICS

LIVE-LINE INDICATORS PAVE THE WAY FOR OPEN-CUT MINES A PIONEER IN THE ELECTRICAL COUPLER INDUSTRY, AUSPROOF CONTINUES TO DEVELOP SOLUTIONS THAT BRING GREATER SAFETY AND PRODUCTIVITY TO MINES.

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simple light on an electrical line is all workers need to see to know that cable is live.

A universal and important feature of couplers, the use of live-line indicators has long been kept to below-ground operations, due the low light emitted by the indicators.

Looking to bring their reliability to the surface, AusProof has built its new live-line indicator from the ground up, developing a circuit board that is integrated into the coupler that reads directly from the current in the line and an indicator that displays bright enough that it is visible even in bright conditions outside.

AusProof managing director Aston Marks said the company is committed to re-inventing itself in order to remain at the top of the industry.

“We wanted to give our customers the peace of mind that they could use our couplers confidently on the operations without having to worry about the safety risks,” Marks told Australian Mining.

“Other companies have attached transformers, power supplies and circuitry which reads from the line to determine whether it’s live, but they are all prone to failure.

“You can’t 100 per cent of the time count on those external readers; there’s always a chance that they fail and when they do. You can’t guarantee the safety of workers operating near these lines.

AUSPROOF RECENTLY RELEASED A RANGE OF COST-EFFECTIVE ALUMINIUM RESTRAINED RECEPTACLES.

“Our new indicators are powered by the electricity running through the coupler itself. They light up when the line is active and are dark when there’s no power.

“It’s a complex problem, drawing power from the cable to ignite an LED without interfering with operations, but it’s a solution we had to achieve.”

AusProof has also recently released a range of cost-effective aluminium small restrained range plugs of and receptacles that are specifically designed for open-cut mines.

Previously reliant on the underground steel plugs and receptacles, the aluminium options are less expensive, lighter and more suited to the requirements of surface mining, making them a better choice than previously available options.

“We took the same internal technology of our underground certified plugs and receptacles but replaced the casing with a metal, such as aluminium, which is more suitable and cost-effective for above-ground projects,” Marks said.

“Some of the hazards are different (between surface and underground), but when it comes to electrical safety, we want to be as comprehensive as we can to give our customers peace of mind, which is why we insist on having our open-cut mining couplers electrically tested.”

AusProof has an understanding of the remote nature of the operations to which it provides its products, offering user care maintenance programs and a lifetime guarantee on the integrity of the design of their couplers.

Additionally, the company has developed a patented quick-release ratchet system based on user feedback designed to decrease the working time in disengaging and engaging plugs and receptacles.

“In our DNA at AusProof, we knew wanted to do more than just release a new cost-effective range for open-cut mining,” Marks said.

“We wanted to make a difference also in the usability of our products, so we developed the quick-release ratchet system, which is going to save customers time and money in the long run.” AM AUSTRALIANMINING

THE NEW LIVE-LINE INDICATORS ARE POWERED BY ELECTRICITY RUNNING THROUGH THE COUPLER ITSELF. AUSPROOF ALUMINIUM COUPLERS.

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MINING SERVICES

WEIR AND HENKEL PARTNERSHIP BUILDS SUSTAINABLE BONDS WEIR MINERALS HAS PARTNERED WITH ADHESIVE PRODUCER HENKEL AND ITS TEAM OF LOCTITE SPECIALISTS TO DEVELOP A SUSTAINABLE, SOLVENT-FREE ADHESIVE FOR RUBBER LINING APPLICATIONS.

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olatile organic compounds (VOCs) are carbon-based organic chemicals often used in adhesives, paints and coatings. They are subject to strict regulations, with some governments looking to ban them in certain products.

In mining, these compounds present a potential hazard to workers as breathing in fumes from VOCs is a safety risk. Solvents that use VOCs are also damaging to the environment, as they can release toxic chemicals into the atmosphere when they evaporate.

As a result, many mines monitor VOC emissions as part of their sustainability strategies.

Mark Doyle, Weir Minerals’ global product manager – Linatex rubber and hose, told Australian Mining the company had been looking for a solvent-free rubber adhesive that eliminated VOCs. “We’ve had many customers across the globe approach us to help them find ways to improve safety for their employees,” he said.

Weir Minerals, manufacturer of Linatex rubber, partnered with adhesive producer Henkel and its team of Loctite adhesive, sealant and coating specialists to develop a mining-first solvent-free adhesive for rubber lining applications with zero volatile organic compounds.

Over the past three years, the Henkel research and development team, located in Casarile, Italy, worked closely with Linatex rubber experts from Weir on multiple product iterations and tests to achieve sustainability goals without compromising performance.

“At Weir Minerals we take safety very seriously and looked at several possible solutions,” Doyle said. “Our team worked closely with the Loctite experts and developed an adhesive that is stronger than any other product in the market with the double benefit of being solvent-free with zero VOCs.” The partnership between Weir Minerals and Henkel was not the beginning of the Loctite journey.

Before the companies came together, Henkel spent seven years on development of the adhesive, followed by another three years with the multinationals working together.

The Linatex Loctite – Lina 88 adhesive range is custom-formulated for the mining industry, with a bond strength that exceeds current British Standard by up to four times.

It also saves shutdown time, with no need to wait for multiple coats to dry for the bond to reach full strength.

The lack of solvents means the Linatex Loctite – Lina 88 adhesive range isn’t flammable or classified as a dangerous good. This increases safety, but also allows for easy transportation.

THE ADHESIVE SAVES TIME DURING SHUTDOWNS, AS THERE IS NO NEED TO WAIT FOR MULTIPLE COATS TO DRY.

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Jody Martens, Henkel’s global account manager for Weir Minerals, said the range had undergone extensive testing on custom sites in Australia, exceeding customer expectations.

“The range has been tested on mine sites in Queensland and New South Wales, where it’s been in use for more than two years,” Martens said.

“The main performance feedback we’ve heard is how long-lasting the adhesive is. The main aim for any adhesive is ensuring it stays in place for the life of the rubber and the Linatex Loctite – Lina 88 adhesive has proved its longevity.”

THE LINATEX LOCTITE – LINA 88 ADHESIVE RANGE IS CUSTOM FORMULATED FOR THE MINING INDUSTRY.

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Given it has a slightly different application method than conventional adhesives, Weir Minerals rubber liners around the world have been trained in using the new range to ensure customers get the most out of it.

Stock for the Linatex Loctite – Lina 88 range is starting to roll out globally.

“Mining companies understand the importance of the new range,” Doyle said.

“We want to emulate what we’ve done in Australia, get global acceptance and continue to work with Henkel to develop further innovative solutions.” AM

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COMMODITY SPOTLIGHT

ERIC KARIUKI, DIAMOND SPECIALIST AND MANAGING DIRECTOR AT PINK DIAMOND CAPITAL.

DIAMONDS: AN INVESTOR’S BEST FRIEND? NOVEMBER 2020 MARKED THE END OF AN ERA AS RIO TINTO’S ARGYLE DIAMOND MINE CLOSED ITS DOORS, BUT WE HAVEN’T SEEN THE END OF THE ICONIC PINK DIAMONDS JUST YET.

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here was a time when very few people believed there to be diamonds in Australia, but the 1979 discovery of the Argyle pipeline put paid to that notion.

The Argyle diamond mine in Western Australia’s Kimberley region saw some significant moments in its 38 years of operation. The mine experienced its production peak in 1994 when 42 million carats were produced.

When Rio Tinto shuttered the mine in November of 2020, it was the fourth-biggest diamond-producing site in the world and, at one point, the

Argyle mine produced 90 per cent of the world’s supply of pink diamonds.

Since its early days, Argyle has been at the centre of several other developments and discoveries. The mine pioneered the world’s first fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) model and developed sophisticated X-ray sorting technology to identify and collect the small diamonds found there.

To extract the most resources from the site, Rio Tinto developed the first block cave mine in WA. This involved undercutting the ore body and allowing it to break up under its own weight. This method was one of the safest and economical ways to reach deep into the ore body.

The long and profitable history at Argyle has exhausted the supply of gems viable for the market. The mines are so deep that further extrication is unviable and, finally, the time came for operations to cease for good.

Although the effects were felt around the world, the closure itself was not a shock, according to diamond specialist Eric Kariuki.

“Rio Tinto is ASX-listed and they announce how much ore is left,” he said. “We knew the closure was coming for a while so there’s been a lot of exploring over the years, but no other diamond mine has been found in Australia that can replace it.”

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The fact Australian diamonds are of a very high quality and are ethically sources makes these gems highly sought after by global investors. Purchasing an Argyle diamond with a certificate of authenticity can increase re-sale value by 30 per cent.

“Our clients invest in Argyle diamonds because they’re safe and secure assets for them,” Kariuki said. “Growth is also a consideration because they want a good return on their investment.”

While there are still pink Argyle diamonds available, the market remains bound to the laws of supply and demand. And now, with 90 per

COMMODITY SPOTLIGHT

cent of the world’s supply cut off, that demand is much higher.

April 2022 saw the world’s largest blue diamond, the De Beers Cullinan Blue, sell for an eyewatering $80 million.

The 15.1 carat diamond was unearthed at South Africa’s Cullinan mine in 2021 and estimations for the sale price stood at $48 million. The actual price sailed well past that after an eight-minute auction, ending in the purchase of the rare jewel by an unnamed buyer by telephone.

The sale just missed the amount fetched by the Oppenheimer Blue diamond in 2016.

“A sale like this creates a new price for that colour diamond,” Kariuki said. “This sets a precedent for what will come next.

“As an investor, I see the results of this and I know I have a limited window to collect as many (blue diamonds) as I can before the new carat price filters through the market.”

Only five gems over 10 carats have ever appeared at auction. One of the most spectacular stones to be found at Argyle, the Argyle Pink Jubilee, was 12.76 carats when unearthed; however, it was cut down to eight carats after a major internal fault line was found.

But what is it about the pink diamonds that make them so popular?

According to Kariuki, it’s the rarity of the hue that makes them such an attractive investment.

“For example, from 38 years of mining history (such as at Argyle), you’d only get enough signature tender diamonds to fill two champagne glasses,” he said.

“They’re extremely rare.”

Signature tender are Argyle’s largest and most vivid pink, red, and violet diamonds.

It should be noted that the closure of the Argyle diamond mine doesn’t mean that the global supply of pink diamonds has completely ceased; the gems can still be found in Russia, India, and Brazil.

AT ONE POINT THE ARGYLE DIAMOND MINE IN WA’S EAST KIMBERLY REGION PRODUCED 90 PER CENT OF THE WORLD’S SUPPLY OF PINK DIAMONDS.

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However, these deposits are no match for what was found at the WA mine.

In fact, if a new pink diamond mine was discovered, it would take over a decade to reach a consumer sale stage. Additionally, there’s no guarantee that a mine will result in pink diamonds.

COMMODITY SPOTLIGHT

RIO TINTO SHUTTERED THE ARGYLE DIAMOND MINE IN NOVEMBER OF 2020.

“If you do find a mine, it could be another five to seven years of construction before production can even begin, so about another decade before anything comes out of the ground,” Kariuki said.

“And if Argyle is anything to go by, there’s a less than one per cent chance of any pink diamonds.”

The prospects may sound bleak, but not all is lost for those wanting to invest in coloured diamonds.

Although pink diamonds are dominating, the popularity and price of yellow diamonds are on the rise and if the market continues to produce more, investors could see some healthy returns.

THE RARITY OF THE HUE OF PINK DIAMONDS MAKES THEM A PARTICULARLY ATTRACTIVE INVESTMENT.

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Argyle held the monopoly in champagne, red and violet diamonds, but most of the intense yellow diamonds are found in South Africa.

And, as always, the deeper the hue, the more valuable it is.

It is unclear when, if ever, the retail prices of diamonds will decrease.

Demand for diamond jewellery rose 21 per cent globally in 2021, well above pre-pandemic levels, with no sign of slowing down. The Russia– Ukraine conflict has also made the market more volatile, especially after sanctions were placed on a Russian company that supplies approximately 30 per cent of the world’s diamonds.

Diamonds’ origin is becoming more important, and investors are seeking to ensure their acquisitions are coming from ethically sourced places.

Investors want safety and security, and they don’t want their money to sit in the bank collecting dust.

Diamonds are a growth asset and can do well when sold into a secondary market.

Although the Argyle mine is now closed for good, diamonds – and pink ones, in particular – won’t be disappearing anytime soon. AM

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MAINTENANCE

THE BENEFITS OF A LIGHTWEIGHT DUMP BODY ARE SIGNIFICANT.

SCHLAM’S HERCULEAN ACHIEVEMENT SCHLAM’S HERCULES DUMP BODIES MAY NOT LOOK MUCH DIFFERENT THAN THEY DID WHEN THEY WERE FIRST MANUFACTURED ALMOST 20 YEARS AGO, BUT THE LATEST DESIGN IS THE RESULT OF CONTINUOUS INNOVATION.

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he idiom “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” can be somewhat misleading, implying a lack of ambition or desire to improve.

In the case of Schlam rolling out the 1500th unit of its Australian-made Hercules dump bodies, that way of thinking couldn’t be less accurate.

“In the past there has been a perception ... that we aren’t very innovative because our main product’s been leading the pack for so long; however, nothing could be further from the truth,” Schlam sales manager Tom Smith told Australian Mining.

Schlam officially delivered its 1500th Hercules to a customer in New South Wales in May, again underlining its knack for innovation to provide customers with the best possible product.

“Schlam could not have reached this milestone without the input of our customers,” Smith said.

“We follow our products into the field and collaborate with clients to solve their specific payload challenges.

“If those improvements are seen to have a positive impact in a broad range of conditions, then they are adopted in future generations of the Hercules.

“Our focus on customer services and after-sales support is the main ingredient in our recipe for success.”

Now in its 14th iteration after first being manufactured in Australia in 2003, to an outside observer the silhouette of the Hercules has remained consistent in that time.

But that doesn’t mean it hasn’t evolved. Specifically, it’s continued to move away from the traditional heavier bodies seen in similar equipment.

As Schlam says, using a traditional heavier dump body means “you’re carrying steel when you should be carrying ore”.

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“The weight of the body has reduced, allowing us to increase capacity and ensure our clients are maximising the payload potential of their haul fleet,” Smith said. “Schlam has options for bodies up to 10 tonnes lighter than competitors with comparable floor thicknesses.”

According to Smith, the benefits of a lightweight dump body are significant, but “quite simple”.

“Decreased body weight means an increased payload potential, enabling a mine site to haul the same amount of material using fewer truck hours or haul more material with the same number of truck hours,” he explained.

MAINTENANCE

“Either way, the operating cost per tonne is dramatically reduced.”

It’s important to note, however, that lighter doesn’t mean weaker. This is an especially important attribute for the often-harsh environments of an Australian mine site.

“Our lightweight bodies have a long history of performing in high-impact and high-abrasion environments for over 50,000 operating hours,” Smith said.

“Once upon a time, mining companies wanted dump bodies that lasted as long as their truck. This made them heavy and limited their payload potential.

“We changed the status quo by offering a product that drastically increased payload and removed or drastically reduced the requirement for on-site wear mitigation installation events.

“With the launch of the Hercules EXO body, we’ve changed the script again.”

The Hercules EXO is a 240-tonne dump body specifically designed for iron ore. It features an ultralight body that utilises a 25mm floor to maximise body wear life, and is designed to combine the benefits of a lighter body that maximises payload with one that has a long lifespan.

“The combination of these features means that a miner can potentially have a 25-tonne body that only

SCHLAM’S HERCULES DUMP BODY IS NOW IN ITS 14TH ITERATION.

requires replacing every six years, rather than a 30-tonne body that requires replacing every three years,” Smith said.

The EXO was developed in collaboration with BHP. “At the end of Schlam’s previous contract with the miner, BHP requested a lighter version of the current design, with a weight reduction of 400–600kg per body,” Smith said.

“Instead, Schlam reduced the weight of each tray by 4.5 tonnes.”

The company redesigned the previous Hercules to reduce the weight of all non-wearing components.

“These improvements have added up to a dump body that is proven to be lighter and have an increased service life compared to previous designs suited to the same application,” Smith said.

“Since mining companies are all too aware of their carbon footprint … this is a massive ESG (environmental, social and governance) benefit.

“While Schlam has an engineering and innovation mindset, it’s our customer service that the company prides itself on. If fact, Schlam’s purpose is ‘to make the customer experience exceptional’.”

That commitment to customers is central to the company’s plans for its rapidly growing services division, Schlam People Solutions, which provides HD mechanics, boilermakers, auto-electricians, and other skilled labour. AM

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2 Low weight, easy dismantling and high strength.

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Learn more: http://yt-twixbeam-gb-en.layher.com

2 The TwixBeam has surprising variability and flexibility.

The Aluminium TwixBeam THE SMART BEAM IN SCAFFOLDING

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

NEW FEDERAL MINISTRY COULD HAVE MAJOR BENEFITS FOR RESOURCES SECTOR: METS IGNITED METS IGNITED CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER ADRIAN BEER HIGHLIGHTS THE OPPORTUNITIES CREATED BY THE CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION AND HOW A SHIFT IN GOVERNMENT COULD CREATE ECONOMIC POTENTIAL FOR AUSTRALIA.

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ustralia has traditionally been a leader in the global resources sector, and the country’s abundance of highdemand resources has supported the local economy for decades.

The mining industry has sustained investment into the local innovation ecosystem, creating a world-leading research sector and producing innovative technologies.

METS Ignited chief executive officer Adrian Beer told Australian Mining about the billions that have been spent to address future sustainability, low-emissions technology, and decarbonisation “Many commentators have described the election outcome as climate-driven. The most direct route to achieving a low-emissions future is to unlock the technology that is currently stranded in our innovation ecosystem,” he said “A focus on commercialising innovation locally drives two major growth levers for the Australian economy.

IT IS HOPED THE INCOMING APPOINTMENTS SIGNAL A COMMITMENT TO BUILDING INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY AND COMMERCIALISATION PROGRAMS THAT WILL BENEFIT THE AUSTRALIAN MINING INDUSTRY.

“Firstly, by commercialising technology to address energyintensive processes in a sustainable way, we build our local manufacturing sector and improve the resilience and sophistication of our national economy.

“Secondly, we increase the local demand for our critical minerals and energy metals, driving the need for greater onshore processing and downstream value-adding.”

While Australia’s resources sector invests heavily into research and development, the solutions that emerge are often used to solve problems at the individual-site level.

METS Ignited was initially set up to commercialise such technologies.

These innovations can often be used across several industry sectors, especially as organisations move to reduce their carbon emissions.

Beer said another major challenge facing Australia is the fact that most the country’s valuable natural resources have their downstream processing concentrated in a small handful of countries.

“The risk this creates for Australia is our security of supply,” he said.

“We ship our valuable materials overseas and buy them back as components within our everyday products at an extraordinary premium to their original value.

“While there are plenty of excuses, there are very few reasons why we could not capitalise on this value-adding opportunity. The real challenge is how to capitalise on this mammoth opportunity, as we are well behind the rest of the world in adding value locally.

“For this to be achieved, it will require strong leadership and coordination from our new government.

The commitment to a sustainable future and real action agenda on climate will require a thoughtful and constructive approach between a number of cabinet ministers.”

Beer said it would require a concerted effort among the incoming Energy Minister Chris Bowen, new Resources Minister Madeleine King, and Ed Husic in the Industry and Science portfolio.

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Prior to the election campaign, Husic committed to expand Australia’s resources technology capability through a $1 billion Value Adding in Resources Fund. Beer said the announcement signalled a commitment to building innovative technology and commercialisation programs in Australia.

“This provides a more effective pathway to commercialise the innovation stranded within research and our resources sector,” he said.

“In the case of METS Ignited, our Industry Growth Centre has invested $15 million into more than 30 projects, with over 60 industry partners who are bringing 20 new innovative technologies to market.

“Many of these products and services are in high demand across multiple industry sectors, including agriculture, clean energy, space and defence.

“Getting the industry policy settings right creates new jobs, builds our sovereign capability, strengthens regional communities and drive economic growth.” AM

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WATER MANAGEMENT

WASTEWATER TREATMENT: IT’S CRITICAL FOR ESG WITH WATER SCARCITY AN INCREASING GLOBAL ISSUE AND THE ESG ERA IN FULL SWING, EFFECTIVE WATER-MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES ARE AN OBLIGATION. XYLEM OFFERS CLIENTS IN THE MINING INDUSTRY A HOLISTIC SOLUTION.

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he mining industry uses significant amounts of water to keep operations running. As a result, it is critical that all mining companies have water treatment strategies in place to optimise the recovery of this vital resource.

Water is utilised primarily to transport and process ores in mining, but it is also key to other practices such as dust suppression, dewatering applications and in cooling systems.

Tailings dams, which store byproducts derived from mining and mineral processing practices, also comprise large amounts of water. And it’s these radioactive ponds that can be most dangerous to the environment.

Managing mining wastewater in a tailings dam requires more than just pump systems; it demands a holistic solution that understands all the risks at play.

Xylem’s solution

Xylem services its mining clients with the view of them forming their own villages, requiring water for work and home environments – for drinking, bathing and sewerage – as well as the water used for the mining operation itself.

The company also helps mining operations to use their water more sustainably, by taking flood water from open pits that is normally a waste product to treat and use within their community.

Water can also be sold on and provided to nearby farmers for further use, which sees the water returned to the local environment.

Depending on where the water is sourced and the minerals it contains, Xylem is able to condition, pump, filter and disinfect it using ultraviolet or ozone treatments to make it safe for everyday use.

Mixers are an important component of the wastewater treatment process, and Xylem offers compact, top-entry, mid-size and slow-speed mixers to suit different applications. The mixers feature stateof-the-art propeller designs and deliver rugged, reliable operation with easy speed adjustment.

A CONSIDERED WASTEWATER TREATMENT STRATEGY DRIVES DOWN COSTS AND IMPROVES SUSTAINABILITY CREDENTIALS.

Xylem’s adaptive mixers are ideal for specific process needs and boast automation, integrated drive and advanced control capabilities to ensure a mining company or contractor has full control over their mixing.

Tailings dams serve their purpose for a period and a mining company without an on-site wastewater treatment strategy would eventually need to transport wastewater offsite. This often involves an external contractor, which can be an inefficient use of time and money.

XYLEM BRAND WEDECO IS A GLOBAL MANUFACTURER OF ULTRAVIOLET WATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS.

ESG

A considered wastewater treatment strategy not only leads to cost savings but also reduces a mining operation’s environmental footprint. This is even more critical in the environmental, social and governance (ESG) era.

Xylem’s holistic wastewater treatment solutions allow mining companies can have full control over their treatment process and be the drivers of their own ESG strategy.

And it’s not only about aligning with the ‘E’ in ESG. Social acceptability is also an important consideration, and mining companies are less likely to attract investor support if they aren’t proactive about their environmental practices.

It’s also important for inclusivity

and transparency, and bringing an investor or lender along for the journey will go a long way to solidifying a business partnership.

Water scarcity

Water scarcity is an increasing global concern. The World Economic Forum forecasts a 40 per cent shortfall between demand and supply by 2030 if current practices continue.

While the mining industry is a key driver of the global economy, it uses a significant amount of water.

A 2020 report from the Australian Conservation Foundation estimated

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that coal mining in New South Wales and Queensland used 225 billion litres of fresh water per year.

The Australian mining industry can make a difference, and with the assistance of Xylem’s holistic wastewater treatment solutions, mining operations can turn to recycled water more often and potentially reduce their usage by up to a third.

And because increased productivity is so important in today’s mining world, Xylem considers current frameworks and designs a solution that not only maintains a present workflow, but improves it. AM

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GOLD

GOLD INDUSTRY GROUP SHIFTS TO ONLINE RECRUITMENT PLATFORMS THE GOLD JOBS INITIATIVE PROVIDES THE INDUSTRY WITH A PLATFORM TO CONNECT WITH THE WIDER COMMUNITY AND ATTRACT NEW PEOPLE INTO ITS TALENT PIPELINE.

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s the second largest employer in the mining industry, Australia’s gold sector is thriving and farreaching, employing more than 50,000 people across a diverse range of jobs in exploration, technology, community and environment.

In 2022, non-for-profit association Gold Industry Group celebrates two years since the launch of its Gold Jobs initiative – an online recruitment platform aimed at championing opportunities in Australia’s gold mining sector.

Featuring hundreds of job listings from 16 leading gold companies – including AngloGold Ashanti Australia, Agnico Eagle Mines, Evolution Mining, Gold Fields, Gold Road Resources, Northern Star Resources, Novo Resources, Ramelius Resources, Regis Resources, St Barbara Limited,

Westgold Resources and Saturn Metals – the website also offers educational resources and content targeting students, teachers, and the wider community.

“Gold Jobs has been a great success since its inception,” Gold Industry Group chair Kelly Carter said.

“It continues to drive positive engagement and provides the gold industry with a platform to connect with the wider community and attract a new talent pipeline.

“It’s fantastic to see the unique resource educate about the vast opportunities the gold industry offers, connecting the public to the many diverse roles and programs available.”

In response to nation-wide labour shortages across industrial sectors, recruiters are turning their focus to advertising positions online.

According to Deloitte’s 2022 ‘Tracking the Trends’ report, the

ROLES IN THE GOLD INDUSTRY COVER AREAS SUCH AS ENGINEERING, GEOLOGY, ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE, HUMAN RESOURCES, ADMINISTRATION, AND HEALTH AND SAFETY.

mining industry is witnessing a “rearchitecture” of talent acquisition, and is now leveraging technology to access a previously untapped skills market.

THE EMPLOYMENT POSSIBILITIES IN THE AUSTRALIAN GOLD INDUSTRY ARE ALMOST ENDLESS.

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Nicole Reweti, recruitment advisor at Novo Resources, said the Gold Jobs platform offered access to a wider pool of potential employees, which has aided in combating

GOLD

THE GOLD JOBS WEBSITE HOSTS PRACTICAL FEATURES SUCH AS THE ‘GOLD JOBS QUIZ’, DESIGNED TO STEER PEOPLE TOWARDS A PARTICULAR AREA OR ROLE.

geographical restraints exacerbated by the COVID pandemic.

“Exploration geologists had been extremely difficult to find due to the WA border closures, so it was great that we could complement our own recruiting efforts with traffic via the Gold Industry Group’s Gold Jobs website,” Reweti explained. “By utilising the Gold Industry Group jobs board, we have also been able to link this through to our website, so all visitors of our careers site can quickly see our current vacancies.”

The Gold Jobs website also hosts practical features such as the ‘Gold Jobs Quiz’, designed to steer individuals towards a particular area or role in the industry, based on their interests, qualifications and experience.

Detailed breakdowns of job profiles offer insight on available roles such as engineering, geology, environmental science, human resources, administration, and health and safety.

The Gold Industry Group recently published a ‘Get into Gold’ video

campaign featuring interviews with industry workers from various levels of operations, adding a human element and personalised perspective on career potential.

The platform also showcases resources for primary, secondary and tertiary students, citing the importance of comprehensive STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education and mentoring opportunities.

Apprenticeship and traineeship openings are listed in a highly accessible directory aimed at young adults and recent graduates.

These assets compliment the Gold Industry Groups’ National Gold Education Program, which was launched in 2020 to help develop a talent pipeline into the industry.

In that time, the program has reached more than 1300 schools across Australia, generating interest among young people to pursue a career in the country’s rapidly expanding gold industry.

The Gold Industry Group is further investing in digital learning

GOLD JOBS …

CONTINUES TO DRIVE POSITIVE ENGAGEMENT AND PROVIDES THE GOLD INDUSTRY WITH A PLATFORM TO CONNECT WITH THE WIDER COMMUNITY AND ATTRACT A NEW TALENT PIPELINE.” tools, such as its Heart of Gold Australia app, designed to spark curiosity for the history and potential of gold operations around the country. It features virtual discovery trails, a knowledge-testing game, attractions and tours, and further resources for teachers.

Feedback on the Gold Jobs website from industry recruitment teams has been positive, as the site opens new pathways for acquiring

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talent and generates leads through a simple, streamlined application.

Steven Neal, recruitment lead at AngloGold Ashanti Australia, reflects on the benefits of digital outreach tools in combating the challenges surrounding shifting work models and physical dispersing of skilled workers from centralised industrial hubs.

“In this current skills shortage climate and tight job market, the Gold Industry Group’s Gold Jobs website has helped showcase the various roles and opportunities on offer in the gold industry and assisted us in reaching a wider and more targeted audience by providing an additional employment platform,” he said.

Gold production is predicted to rise over the next few years, and the opportunities to work in Australia’s diverse industry will rise with it. Through the curation of listings and supporting information, the Gold Industry Group is encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to consider a future in this thriving sector. AM

PRODUCTS

NEW AI PLATFORM LANDS AT NEOUSYS

BISALLOY WEAR STEEL: STRONGER STEEL THAT LASTS THE DISTANCE

Neousys Technology has announced a new edition to its AI platform. The NRU-52S is powered by the NVIDIA Jetson Xavier NX and delivers 21 TOPS for AI-based video analytics applications that require H.264/H.265 video decoding and real-time inference. Consuming only 15W of power, it can decode up to 44 streams of 1080p video at 30 FPS. The NRU-52S also features four IEEE 802.3bt PoE++ ports that can supply up to 90W per port. These ports support IP or PTZ speed dome cameras for AI-based detection, tracking, and recognition applications.

The system has two mPCIe sockets for NVMe storage, WIFI, GNSS, or V2X module and one M.2 B key for 4G LTE or 5G NR module. It also has one hardware configurable RS232/RS422/RS485, 1 GPS PPS input, 3-CH isolated DI, and 4-CH isolated DO for communication with external devices.

Encompassing the Neousys industrial grade design, its rugged construction, -25°C to 70°C operation, and 8V to 35V DC input allow it to thrive in harsh mining environments.

• www.neousys-tech.com/en

With an increasing demand for lighter, stronger steel that lasts, mining operators are continually looking for ways to push their earthmoving equipment harder, and for longer.

This is where bespoke steel manufacturers come into play with the production of innovative steel designed to withstand the toughest environments.

For over 40 years, there is one company that has built a global reputation for its quality, high-performance steel – and it’s proudly Australian.

Bisalloy is Australia’s only manufacturer of quenched and tempered steel plate used for wear-resistant, structural, armour and protection steel applications.

The Bisalloy Wear steel range is renowned in mines, exploration and mineral processing operations, and quarries all over the world. Equipment manufacturers require quality steel grades to achieve greater wear resistance and get more out of their products, particularly buckets, truck bodies, ground-engaging and demolition tools, wear plates and liners for chutes, as well as trommels, screens and crushers.

• bisalloy.com.au

E-PLAS TIPS THE SCALES WITH QUICKSILVER

SAFETY-FIRST APPROACH DRIVES REMOTE DOZER SOLUTION

E-Plas’ QuickSilver truck lining system is the ultimate industrial strength continuous liner. QuickSilver is super slick, meaning no additional release agents are required. This also means there is no sticking or carry-backs, which eliminates the risk of a tip-over.

The continuous lining ensures the truck stays tough, safe and productive by reducing the turnaround time, allowing more loads per day.

QuickSilver is a much lighter alternative to steel and aluminium, outwearing both. It features superior abrasion, impact, and corrosion resistance to protect the integrity and life of the truck.

A particularly helpful feature of QuickSilver is that it can be fitted in less than a day and, once fitted, requires no ongoing maintenance. The QuickSilver truck lining system has been proven to perform in multiple industries, including bulk handling, mining and minerals, and grain handling/transport. Designed specifically for intense applications, QuickSilver is the perfect choice for harsh Australian climates.

For WesTrac, Rio Tinto and Caterpillar, this new tele-remote dozing system (TDS) at Rio Tinto’s iron ore operations in Western Australia is wholly focused on operator safety.

The solution utilises the Cat MineStar Command for Dozing technology and a dedicated operator control centre, allowing for non-line-of site-operation of dozers working in high-risk areas. There is also an over-the-shoulder console that allows operators to work within visual range, typically used for temporary or one-off movements of machines.

The remote operator control centre is similar to a simulator, with all of the in-cab controls replicated. Rio Tinto’s also incorporates a vision kit, making use of four cameras on board each dozer and relaying machine information and visuals in real time via a Wi-Fi network.

• westrac.com.au

• www.eplas.com.au/

quicksilver-truck-lining

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PRODUCTS

NEXT-GENERATION MINE HOIST CONTROL SYSTEM FROM ABB Global technology company ABB is introducing a new standardised hoist control system for use by mining companies worldwide.

Building on ABB’s reliable and proven past generations of hoist control systems, the ABB Ability NGX Hoist Control brings new levels of reliability, flexibility, and ease of use to smaller companies on greenfield projects or upgrades. It can also help larger companies reduce costs and improve efficiencies through standardisation of control systems.

It is adaptable to any type of hoist and can be used in upgrade projects replacing third-party control systems. The NGX operating station was designed with the latest ergonomic and human factor engineering guidelines and is based on the latest human machine interface (HMI) insights, offering a modern and intuitive operator interface.

It can be easily integrated with other market-leading ABB technologies including ABB Ability Safety Plus for hoists – the first fully SIL 3 certified hoist solutions that ensure the highest level of safety – which was first commissioned in 2019 on the world’s largest friction hoists.

The new hoist control is also compatible with advanced digital monitoring service ABB Ability Performance Optimisation that continuously tracks the status of a mine hoist and improves uptime, availability, performance and productivity by providing actionable information on key performance indicators and provides remote access to ABB experts at all times.

NEW TOOLS FOR ENHANCED GEOLOGICAL MODELLING Micromine has released the latest version of its industry-leading exploration and resource estimation solution, Micromine Origin 2022.5.

The enhanced functionality of the company’s flagship product is led by three vital brand new tools to equip exploration and resource geologists with even greater confidence in their geological decisions.

At the click of a few buttons, users can improve the accuracy of their resource estimates by effortlessly integrating real deposit geometry into their estimations with the new Structural Trend tool.

The new Vein Network tool facilitates all veins to be modelled in a single step, mitigating the typical time-consuming macros and manual boolean operations. This provides an ideal solution, especially when modelling vein deposits with multiple loads or complex intrusion-style deposits.

Due to the high risk for over or underestimation, Micromine Origin 2022.5’s new Indicator Grade Shell tool mitigates estimation risk and prevents domain errors by providing an unbiased and accurate method to represent grade domains.

• micromine.com

• new.abb.com/au

SANDVIK DRILL LITERALLY GROUND-BREAKING Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions showcased a ground-breaking electric concept drill rig for surface drilling to the Vei og Anlegg 2022 exhibition, one of Scandinavia’s largest construction trade shows, held from May 11–14.

The new concept rig demonstrates some of the advanced technologies that will be introduced on future series drill rigs to support more sustainable and energy-efficient surface drilling, particularly in urban construction applications.

The concept drill rig is essentially a versatile R&D platform for demonstrating the most advanced, but nevertheless proven and validated, sustainability technologies that are already in use or coming soon on underground drill rigs and loaders.

The innovation lies in transferring these technological advantages into the surface drilling world for the first time to meet the latest demands from the industry.

The technologies demonstrated on the rig include electrified power supply and a range of emission-reduction technologies, with the overall aim of energy efficiency and emission control (noise, particulates and CO2).

ATOMISED MIST CANNON MANAGES DUST IN UNFAVOURABLE WEATHER The next advancement in industrial dust suppression has been introduced by BossTek, the leader in atomised mist technology.

The powerful cannon, which is designed to fight dust with maximum efficiency, was developed in response to the needs of customers in areas with variable winds.

The DustBoss DB-60 Surge features water propelled at high velocity from a centre nozzle, combined with the industry-proven fan and misting ring system.

With three remote-controlled stages and precision oscillation for optimum command over water volume and coverage area, the cannon uses highpowered jets that surge through the wind for over 76.2m to suppress both surface and airborne dust. The result is effective and versatile dust mitigation in challenging weather for outdoor operations ranging from demolition to bulk material processing and storage.

• bosstek.com

• home.sandvik/en

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EVENTS

CONFERENCES, SEMINARS & WORKSHOPS EVENT SUBMISSIONS CAN BE EMAILED TO EDITOR@AUSTRALIANMINING.COM.AU

Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition Mackay | July 19–21 The Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition (QME) is a key place for the industry to come together to be inspired, innovate and connect over three days. It connects leading suppliers and technical experts with those seeking better efficiency and productivity, and increased optimisation for their business and site.

QME will feature over 250 suppliers, and a free seminar series will give attendees the opportunity to hear from industry professionals who will address the current needs of the industry. With live demonstrations and topical presentations, QME will be the ultimate destination for the Queensland mining industry.

• queenslandminingexpo.com.au Queensland Mining Industry Health and Safety Conference Gold Coast | August 21–24 Representing an initiative to promote health and safety in the Queensland mining industry, the conference provides attendees with the opportunity to exchange information, network and foster proactive health and safety management techniques.

This year, the event returns with the theme ‘Together we collaborate, innovate and educate’. The conference will retain presentations planned for 2020 and promote the ingenuity of home-grown safety.

It follows a bumper year for conference attendance, with almost

1000 people joining the event when it featured seven keynote presentations, 50 concurrent presentations and 60 trade displays in 2019.

Held at the Star Gold Coast this year, the Queensland Mining Industry Health and Safety Conference will conclude with the Safety Innovation Health Awards and gala dinner.

• qmihsconference.org.au IMPC Asia Pacific 2022 Melbourne | August 22–24 AusIMM and the CSIRO will come together to present IMPC Asia Pacific 2022 in August. Held both in Melbourne and online, the conference brings together global delegates to share best practice and knowledge in mineral processing.

IMPC 2022 will feature over 350 full papers and extended abstracts, along with an extensive technical program and keynote speeches from a host of industry professionals. Expected to attract over 300 delegates across Melbourne and online, the conference will bring together mineral processing professionals to talk all things innovation. The conference is centred around the theme ‘From ideas to implementation’ and talks and papers will examine topics such as reducing waste and energy consumption.

The conference will have a strong focus on bringing together research bodies and the mining industry to facilitate collaboration.

IMPC 2022 will be held at Crown Promenade Melbourne and will be streamed online.

• ausimm.com/conferences-andevents/impcap/ AUSTRALIANMINING

BULK2022: Australian Bulk Handling Expo Melbourne | August 24–26 The Australian Bulk Handling Expo, conference and awards will take place in 2022 to bring together the bulk handling industry into a standalone exhibition that shares the same location as MEGATRANS, which integrates intrinsically with the logistics and multimodal freight sector.

It is support by the Australian Society for Bulk Solids Handling (ASBSH), which will host an industry conference, while the trade expo will showcase the latest in bulk material handling equipment and technologies.

Exhibitors include VEGA, SEW-Eurodrive, Mideco, Bonfiglioli, Minprovise and ESS Engineering. BULK2022 will take place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre over a period of three days.

BULK2020 and BULK2021 ticketholders will be able to use their tickets to join the rescheduled expo.

• bulkhandlingexpo.com.au International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) Melbourne | October 17–22 The eighth IMARC comes to Melbourne Showgrounds in Victoria from October 17–22 after being postponed from its previous date in January and February.

Isuzu, Newtrax Technologies, Murray Engineering and Australasian Metals have confirmed their support and participation for the event, in addition to major sponsors Caterpillar, Toronto Stock Exchange and Sandvik.

The IMARC team continues to build content and themes to attract global leaders from throughout the mining,

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investment, and METS communities across the value chain.

Leading into October 2022, chief executive officers that were due to speak at the conference at the end of January will take part in a series of virtual interviews and keynote presentations as part of a brand new IMARC Insight series.

For those who registered for the previous event dates, the tickets will have automatically transferred to the new dates.

• imarcglobal.com AusRock Conference 2022 Melbourne | November 29–December 1 Hosted in partnership with AusIMM and UNSW Sydney, AusRock 2022 will be held in conjunction with the International Society of Rock Mechanics Regional Symposium from the end of November to the beginning of December.

Offering a hybrid format so delegates can attend the conference either in-person in Melbourne or online from anywhere in the world, AusRock 2022 follows on from earlier conferences that have successfully covered the various aspects of geotechnical engineering servicing the mining industry and shared best practices.

BHP, Jennmar, DSI Underground and GSS have confirmed their support, with exhibitions set to be held by Rocscience, Minova, MineGeoTech and DSI Underground.

AusRock2022 will focus on new technologies and developments, industry needs, operational problem-solving, and practical case studies that will be required for the future.

• ausimm.com/conferences-and-events/ ausrock/

JULY 2022

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AND

Mines Quarries MAY 2022

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EDITION 13

Squaring up the labour market with skill sharing Turn to page 04

Investing in the future of responsible gold mining

Sensor tech keeps a close eye on stock levels

New AFC tensioner ensures smooth underground conveying

BSC as a trusted as a key problem solver for power transmission and transport

SPECFAST’s digital inventory monitoring saves on downtime cost

Boutique mechanical consultancy solves chain tensioning with the help of CRAM

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contents 08 Digital monitoring of synchronous drive belts for QLD natural gas company

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Rough copper mining sites opt for super strength drive belts

Testing the limits of hydraulic engineering

May 2022 04 Squaring up the labour market with skill sharing

19 Earthmoving manufacturer bolsters efficiency thanks to digital stock monitoring

06 Picking up good vibrations on quarrying machinery

20 Stay ahead of the curve with the latest in fluid transfer technology

10 WebsterBSC’s quick turn-around on coupling upgrades

21 Reducing annual energy costs with high‑efficiency motor solutions

12 Move over for the NXTGEN™ of lifting technology

22 Pumping up the mining sector in North Queensland

13 The importance of grout selection for dynamic load equipment

24 CRC provides a well-rounded range of environmentally conscious products

14 Dry or wet, LOCTITE® has you set

25 Rock-hard reliability on Victorian quarrying plants

15 Gearmotors designed to drive heavy loads 16 Investing in the future of responsible Australian gold mining 18 Crushing it with hydraulic guillotine gate

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MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

26 Downtime foiled by exceptional bearing solution 28 The cost value in energy audits for hydraulic systems

EXPERT PROFILE

Meet the Team

Marcelo Falcao, Application Engineering Manager - Bearings.

Over Nine Years at Motion Australia (25+ years in the bearing industry)

Giving the best solution in all aspects whether it be technical, economical, logistical, or maintenance, is Marcelo’s passion.

Marcelo Falcao is the Application Engineering Manager Bearings at Motion Australia. His main focus is to provide QUICK FIRE QUESTIONS technical support to Motion Australia customers, and assist 1 What’s your favourite word? them with finding the best bearings for their specific use case or application requirements. He does this by analysing Empathy. the customer’s existing bearings and understanding their 2 If you could win an Olympic medal for any sport, application. He identifies what issues that the customer is real or fake, what would it be? experiencing with their bearings and then finds a complete Patience with people trying to solve any bearing problem solution that is ideal for their application. Marcelo is by using a “bigger” bearing. also adept with lubrication requirements, as it is a very important component that affects bearing analysis 3 If you could change your name, what would it be? and bearing selection. Giving the best solution in Ford Falcon. I am a bit tired of spelling my name. I suppose all aspects whether it be technical, economical, this one is well known here in Australia. logistical, or maintenance, is his passion. With this, we at Motion Australia exceed our customers’ 4 What was your favourite subject in school? expectations by offering a comprehensive service Maths. and specialised solution to our customers.

5 What’s your hidden talent?

Wood working and creative problem solving.

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

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COVER

Squaring up the labour market with skill sharing

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ustralian heavy industry continues to face challenges with an ongoing skilled labour shortage that has been compounded by global supply chain disruptions and unpredictable shifts in the global market.

Incidentally, a shortage of skilled maintenance staff on site increases the risk of a breakdown on critical equipment and machinery resulting in loss of productivity and costly replacements of industrial parts and componentry, according to Michael Greelish, National Segment Manager for Mining, Quarrying and Resources at Motion Australia.

“The Australian mining and quarrying sectors have been forced to rely solely on local labour from the existing talent pool within the country. And with

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MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

companies becoming increasingly desperate to find qualified workers, many have started seeking more streamlined labour solutions to bridge the gap,” says Michael.

Having recently brought all their core businesses under one name, Motion Australia’s national footprint has expanded in terms of skills and expertise within the larger organisation, allowing the Motion Australia team to become much more involved in the engineering outcomes on site.

“We now have experts working in seals, fluid power, hydraulics, drive solutions, bearings, couplings and basically every type of fitting and installation required for every asset found on a mine or quarry site,” says Michael. “In terms of application knowledge, we have a

good line of sight as to when certain assets will require maintenance and our national presence gives us a strong ability around mobility so we are exceedingly nimble for moving around the country, as needed.”

As the largest industrial solutions provider in the country, Motion Australia has been responding to the increased demand for skilled labour by tapping into their own network of engineering and technical experts to offer full‑service engineering support staff in a single visit to site, according to General Manager National Sales, Grant Gray.

“The exciting thing about working across so many markets is we have become subject matter experts across many different markets,” says Grant.

“We have got the skills and the talent

“We now have experts working in seals, fluid power, hydraulics, drive solutions, bearings, couplings and basically every type of fitting and installation required for every asset found on a mine or quarry site.” gives site managers the opportunity to perform a full site audit and firm up their requirements in one visit from us.”

In addition to more robust on-site engineering services, Motion Australia has also been assisting with the training and upskilling of site staff.

“We are happy to offer training on all of the products we supply, facilitated by our in-house qualified trainers as well as our supply partners,” says Michael.

“We regularly conduct training sessions on‑site, or at one of our local branches, and we can accommodate and tailor training sessions to suit any product application, skill level, and schedule.”

One example of this is Motion Australia Quarry Training Session which has been specially tailored to cover areas of concern for a quarry.

– whether it’s the technical know-how, the product knowledge, or getting our hands dirty on site.”

Grant explains how historically, it was frequent practice for four or five different external parties, vendors, and stakeholders to come out to a site– each with their own core competencies– and each providing various kinds of innovation at different intervals.

The result was a series of broken high‑risk events all aiming toward the same engineering outcome– often with varied results.

“What we offer now is a low-risk, complete solution package under one umbrella –from design, to install, to monitoring services,” explains Grant.

“A single, closed loop offering that

“The Quarry Training program is a two‑hour hands-on workshop that covers training on a broad range of areas including fitting conveyor bearings; gaining an understanding of how to measure the radial internal clearance; and V-Belts tensioning and alignment procedures,” explains Michael.

He notes that the workshop was designed to be “in person, PowerPoint free, and hands-on” to better assist attendees in getting a clear understanding of the correct procedures, and ultimately– ensuring bearings and belts have the best chance of surviving in a mining or quarrying environment.

And while upskilling workers is a good strategy for addressing the challenges of a skilled labour shortage, advancements in technology have also played a key role in easing the pressure off mining and quarrying managers.

“Remote condition monitoring and autonomous mobile technologies have advanced so quickly in the last five years, that we can even monitor how much grease has been put into a bearing and when the last time it was greased,” says Michael.

“Smart sensors will monitor and detect frequency and temperature changes on a piece of equipment and advise personnel of a change through an email or SMS message. This way, sites can plan service intervals and downtime, rather than responding reactively.”

Since basic remote online monitoring units have become affordable and accessible to the market in recent years, Michael says many more sites are becoming eager to install remote condition monitoring sensors on their most critical pieces of equipment.

“The team at Motion Australia offer products and support for these technologies in partnership with our suppliers. We are continuously looking for better ways to connect site managers with the information and the resources that they need at any given moment,” says Michael. “And while we can’t be out on site all the time, we can provide the solutions, tools, and the training they need.”

“I love the idea of our team as a resource pool and it’s important that site managers feel like they can tap into our resources at any time,” concludes Grant. “We want our customers to know that our relationship extends beyond invoicing. We have resources, and we have scalability for those resources.

And regardless of what your view of the market is right now, when you have scale, you can deal more readily with shifts in the market.”

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

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BEARINGS

Picking up good vibrations on quarrying machinery

S

ustained operation and output on a mine or quarrying site is highly dependent on the durability of genuine parts. In the complex framework of heavy weight mining and transporting operations, holding it all together are strong bearing components. To ensure long machinery lifecycle and avoid downtime due to part failure, these bearings need to be reliable, defensive against harsh environmental factors, and easy to replace.

Sheree Munnik, Motion Australia’s Key Account Executive for Mining in Perth, works alongside Schaeffler to supply a local gearbox repair business with tailored bearing solutions. She explains that making sure this customer receives high-quality and suited components is paramount, as they have several large companies relying on their services in an ongoing capacity.

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MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

“This particular customer has many divisions, and they support a large sector of the mining industry,” she says.

“I work quite closely with their gearbox division, who are renowned aftermarket repairers of vibrating machinery in the mining sector. They have been coming to CBC for over 10 years to source componentry for their designs, so we have built up a good rapport and level of trust.”

“This particular business has built a strong reputation on the quality of their service offering,” Sheree elaborates.

“Lots of people rely on them thanks to the credibility and quality of their work.

It is very much focused on extending the lifetime of machinery, particularly gearboxes, to help their customers save time and money.”

The primary use of this vibrational equipment is to carry out screening processes, as part of the crushing and

sorting of raw materials into different sizes. These screening machines move in all directions – back and forth linear motion, circular rotation and elliptical movement – so require purpose-built spherical roller bearings, such as Schaeffler’s FAG T41Ds. “The T41Ds are high-quality spherical roller bearings that perform well under extreme pressure and stresses,” explains Sheree. “Because there is a lot of vibrating going on across mine plants, this bearing is made stronger to avoid slipping and consequential breakage.

They need to have that long-term resistance capacity to achieve full asset lifecycle.”

These bearings feature Schaeffler’s innovative surface treatment, Durotect CK. This hard chromium coating is designed to combat the harsh contaminants on mining sites as well as potential fretting corrosion.

the scenes. It gives them full visibility on the process.”

“CBC works closely with Schaeffler to offer services in terms of monitoring, and tracking the wear of these units.

We support research through case studies and make sure that we are available to assist, should any red flags arise,” Sheree explains.

“Because there is a lot of vibrating going on across mine plants, this bearing is made stronger to avoid slipping and consequential breakage.”

While standard bearings tend to develop peaks on their surface where extreme pressure has occurred, the Durotect hard coating on the bore alleviates those peaks for a smoother, consistent surface.

Heavy industry conditions, such as repeated impact, dust pollution, dirt and grime can all negatively affect the lifespan of machinery parts, so incorporating defensive coatings on these bearings gives Schaeffler an edge within the mining and quarrying markets.

“Since Schaeffler introduced the Durotect feature on these spherical roller bearings, we have had a lot of great feedback from customers,” reflects Sheree. “They are an exceptional bearing manufacturer. They are also well-known to the industrial market for going out of their way to understand niche applications and carrying out research and development (R&D) to meet those specifications.”

Delivering expert and considered componentry solutions requires Motion Australia businesses to have a well‑established and trusting relationship with Premium Supply Partners like Schaeffler. A large part of that process involves Sheree liaising with Schaeffler’s engineer and servicing teams, providing clear communication to the customer around supply processes and the most effective application of the roller bearings.

“Here in WA, we work together closely on collaborative customer visits.

Representatives from Schaeffler’s team regularly come with me to visit customer sites and carry out assessments. We find this is extremely beneficial for the customer because they gain an understanding of how the parts manufacturing works, their process, and production schedules.

They get to see first-hand how their requirements are being met behind

The T41D bearings come under Schaeffler’s X-Life quality program, ensuring complete satisfaction and peace of mind with regards to their sustained performance. This seal of quality covers heat treatment, surface hardened cages, and tighter dimensional tolerances on every unit sold. The T41Ds offer an increased lifespan when applied on exciter units in vibratory machines, raising the benchmark for industrial bearing products Australia-wide.

This product is available through consultation with a CBC representative, who can carry out detailed assessments and specific application needs of each site. Their continual stock quantities can assure accessibility for part overhauls and monitoring services long-term.

“Motion Australia has been working with Schaeffler for a long time, so we have a very close supply relationship,” Sheree points out. “As one of our Premium Partners, they deliver excellent service on top of extremely high-grade products with guaranteed consistence.”

WHY MADDIE THE MINER RECOMMENDS SCHAEFFLER T41D SPHERICAL ROLLER BEARINGS •D esigned for oscillating load with restricted diameter tolerances •T emperature resistance up to 200ºC •H igh performance guarantee with X-Life quality •D urotect CK limits corrosion and shaft wear •T ighter OD and ID dimensional tolerances for cleaner fit

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

7

BELTS

Digital monitoring

of synchronous drive belts for QLD natural gas company

D

igitalisation and component monitoring are quickly becoming integral aspects to present-day mining environments.

Processes such as cataloguing, inventory control, product lifespan assessment, and design initiatives can be significantly bolstered by the incorporation of integrated software programs. The ability to compare and contrast belting solutions on large plants can ensure that the best application is fitted to the correct tension, pull and alignment.

The Gates® Design Power™ digital

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MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

platform offers a full spectrum overview for customers, engineers, OEMs and suppliers to collaborate and assess the performance of various belt models on-site. CBC has recently been working alongside a large natural gas producer in Queensland to integrate this software as a monitoring solution on multiple Gates® PowerGrip™ GT4™ belts that are currently in use.

Rob Michelson, National Product Manager for Belts at Motion Australia, says that generating automated feedback on the performance of the

PowerGrip™ GT4s™ has helped to identify their benefits, and suitability to a range of applications on mining, quarrying and gas extraction sites.

“Gates is fairly unique in their implementation of this software, which provides us with an added service that we can offer customers,” he explains. “Being able to pull up those data sheets when doing complete overview and analysis of each drive makes the process a lot more streamlined, and ensures attention to detail where it counts.”

Essentially, the Design Power suite comprises of multiple tools to support the engineering and specification of belt-drive systems. These tools include the upgraded version of Gates® Design IQ™, and Design Flex Pro™ modules.

The user-friendly functionality applies over a century of knowledge on belting technology in a sophisticated framework to calculate dimensions, tension, transmission capacity, energy and cost savings.

“This software infrastructure allows us at CBC to conduct ongoing drive analysis for the customer,” explains James Darrach, from the CBC Technical Services team. “We gather the technical details on whichever product they are using, assess their suitability in terms of size et cetera, then make educated recommendations to improve the wear life and efficiency.”

always happy to work with us on the design side of things, and the quality of their products really is outstanding, which we have seen through these ongoing applications in the mining industry.”

The PowerGrip™ GT4™ range has been expertly engineered with both durability and low maintenance in mind. Delivering improved performance on previous models, the 8MGT and 14MGT pitches boast increased load capacities, broader temperature range tolerance, and are constructed from environmentally friendly materials. According to Rob, these benefits render this product a clear choice for industrial businesses operating in mining, construction,

CBC’s customer in Queensland has done a full upgrade on drive solutions across their operations, implementing the Gates® PowerGrip™ GT4™ rubber synchronous belts. According to James, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive – a testament to the strong supply partnership between Motion Australia and Gates that has developed over many years.

What makes the PowerGrip™ GT4™ stand out?

“Since we started doing work with these gas plants, Gates has been very supportive,” he reflects. “They are

• Rust free and improved chemical resistance

• Made with environmentally friendly materials • No lubrication or re-tensioning required • Temperature tolerance between -40°C - +120°C

forestry, textile and food processing industries.

“Gates provides a range of different belts for varied, specific applications and the GT4™ is up there in the top of the range as far as power goes. What that means is the belt, instead of being so wide, is narrower and gives less pressure on the bearings and other parts. Getting the load closer to the bearing is also an advantage in terms of speed.”

Without the need for lubrication or periodic re-tensioning, these drive belts eliminate a significant maintenance cost over the product lifespan. Not only does the lighter weight improve ergonomic safety due to reduced strain on installation, it also minimises noise factor because less air is trapped underneath the rubber.

Elaborating on this, James says, “a huge benefit of these belts is that they can replace chain applications in some circumstances, which mitigates a lot of the effort and cost of lubrication. There is just as much - if not more - power with this more lightweight product, and you are not constantly having to clean up grease.

It is also not going to rust or corrode like a chain would.”

Representatives from CBC will frequently collaborate with Gates team members to utilise the Design Power portfolio and conduct joint visits to customer sites.

The ethos behind this partnership is based on delivering cost-effective and long-lasting product solutions to the Australian industrial sector, ensuring full satisfaction and evolving solutions to meet market needs.

“Our relationship with Gates is built on many years of trust and great communication,” Rob says. “Having been around for over 100 years, they have always been at the forefront of new belting technology. From products like the GT4™, to the innovative Poly Chain®, their belts are unparalleled in terms of horsepower ratings and power transmission capabilities.”

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

9

COUPLING

WebsterBSC’s quick turn-around on coupling upgrades

T

he use of rotating grinding mills in mining has made a considerable impact on the efficiency of raw material breakdown. As the most common type of grinding machine on Australian mining sites, they consist of an rotating drum mounted on two large‑scale bearings at either end.

Inside this drum are several differently sized steel balls, which harness the rotation of the machine to impact and agitate the grinding balls and ore with water to grind down the rock into a slurry. The rotating drum is set on a slight angle, so the material goes in one end, and migrates its way down to the other, where it is then pumped to the mineral separation plant for further processing.

Eddie Lawrence, Regional Hub Manager at WebsterBSC, has experience working with one of Australia’s longest running underground mine sites and processing facility, 85 years to date with a bright future ahead. He has been asked to investigate if the low-speed ball mill coupling can be upgraded with no change to the current boundary dimensions of the ball mill and gearbox location.

“I have been working alongside this customer for about 15 years, both on site and remotely to deliver engineering support as well as general product supply,” Eddie says. “I do regular site visits every three months to carry out things like bearing audits, gearbox and v-belt drive analysis and hydrocarbon grease recommendations, so when they contacted me about updating their low speed ball mill coupling, I already had a good understanding of their needs.”

According to Steve Hittmann, National Product Manager for Mechanical Drives at Motion Australia, the customer’s primary concerns were accessible

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MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

maintenance and reliability, so they were supplied with Timken’s Quick-Flex® Couplings as a longer-term solution.

These components are distinguished by their lubrication-free design, along with customisable cover and insert configurations.

“The customer was using very old technology that had been developed in the 1960s, which was making it difficult for them to source replacement parts,” says Steve. “This was proving expensive and time consuming, which is why we suggested a more contemporary solution. We’ve put in the latest technology, so all the necessary spare parts are now readily available off the shelf.”

“We opted for a standard high speed split cover to generate maximum torque rating and ease of fitment,” Eddie elaborates. “Essentially it is an easy solution, with less moving parts that could potentially wear. They are easy to install, and designed to withstand harsh conditions - a vital factor for any mining application.”

In this particular application, the coupling works to connect the main gearbox to the ball mill itself, on the low speed side of the gearbox. Once the hubs are mounted in position, they don’t need to be moved on the shaft for the driver element replacement, leading to downtime savings.

“These couplings have high tortional flexibility, which means they can absorb continual shock, vibrational loads, and sudden overloads,” explains Steve.

“A ball mill is kind of like a large, heavy tumble dryer – but instead of clothes you have heavy raw material being broken down from repeated impact.”

An additional key benefit to the Quick‑Flex® solution is increased safety during maintenance or change-outs.

Steve says that in keeping with industry regulations, mining company’s plants stand to benefit from less crane lift requirements, lighter consumable components and element change outs that need less personnel to conduct an inspection or change out.

“In comparison to the customer’s old set-up, which had several nut and bolt connections that had to be handled

in order to carry out a repair, the Quick‑Flex® offers less downtime, no need to handle coupling components with old grease, and minimised hazards to employees.”

Furthermore, the unique layout of the coupling decreases the impacted surface area, isolating the ongoing wear to a singular, detachable part, the polyurethane element.

“The lifespan of these couplings is bolstered due to their smart design.

There is no metal-to-metal contact, because the hub’s ‘teeth’ are joined by a polyurethane element. That is the only part that will ever wear, and so the only part that requires replacing.”

Use of the Quick-Flex® couplings offers cost-effective inventory standardisation, as they are compatible with all regular high and low torque applications.

They accept misalignment up to two degrees, and can safely replace existing jaw, grid, gear, chain, and tyre couplings.

Where intensive washdown procedures are required, the Quick-Flex® range is also available in stainless steel.

Optimised for high-speed settings, each unit is inherently balanced from precision machining and performs at continuous torque levels of 43Nm to 610.5 kNm. “The customer has been extremely satisfied with our integration of these couplings,” says Eddie. “This coupling has been running now for 12 months without failure, so they are certainly demonstrating their worth on the ball mill equipment, of note, recently this same coupling was designed in for another demanding high torque crushing application which is also proving reliable.”

Although these couplings are designed for streamlined installation, and can handle minor misalignment, Eddie points out the value in consulting with a Webster BSC representative to assess and offer insight on the specific design integration. He reflects on Motion Australia’s long history offering servicing and support in conjunction with Timken’s technical team, noting the benefit of this collaborative approach.

“Our relationship with Timken as a supply partner has been integral to our success for a long time. Since I have been with Motion Australia, we have collaborated on many projects within the mining sector, and worked extensively with their engineering design hub to deliver premium support to our widespread customer base.”

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

11

ADVERTORIAL – CHAIN

Move over for the NXTGEN™ of lifting technology

S

pecialised requirements in the mining and quarrying industries are constantly evolving, and component manufacturers must stay ahead of the curve to meet those demands. Where older, less durable products have much shorter lifespans and may degrade rapidly, newer technologies in lifting and hoisting seek to offer extended wear time and more robust capacity.

Titan Lifting are world-standard experts on the technology behind precision quality hoists, lashing and loading equipment, load and lifting chain, shackles, ratchet straps, lifting slings, hooks and wire cable products.

They are an Australian owned and operated, globally recognised for their reliable premium standards and comprehensive service offering.

Their NXTGEN™ range of advanced chain and lever hoists answer the call for adaptive parts that address day-today challenges on site. Created for the future of industrial lifting requirements, this range boasts incredible quality at a competitive price. Specifically developed with overload protection in mind, the units integrate smart locking mechanisms to avoid overloading and contribute to better managing safety concerns.

“With a far superior fused brake system over other similar hoists, the NXTGEN™ Overload Protection does not allow the chain or lever hoist to operate if overloaded,” explains John Di Michele, General Manager at Titan Lifting.

“This locking system is an extremely important safety feature that makes the NXTGEN range stand out.

Key features • Advanced overload protection • Compact design and low headroom • Dacromet coated parts for corrosion resistance • Double pawl brake system • Zinc plated fixings, side plates and guides • Heavy duty cast hook safety latches • High precision gears with caged bearings Each unit is manufactured in compliance with Australian Standard AS1418.2, and backed by a five year limited warranty to offer customers peace of mind.

Get in touch with your local Motion Australia representative to discuss the best application for your industrial settings.

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MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

The NXTGEN™ hoist range boasts superior load capacity and flexible design.

Where tailored application is required, optional lifting heights are available upon request. Attention to detail when it comes to protective finish, and low profile characteristics render these hoist systems unique within the market, and ensure practical integration alongside other lifting apparatus.

“Operating the hoists requires less effort when lifting heavy loads,” elaborates John. “Considerable thought has been put into each component of these hoists to tick every box. A large number of the parts and components are coated with a Dacromet finish to ensure high level of corrosion resistance and durability in harsh environments.”

NXTGEN™ Hand Chain Hoist The Hand Chain Hoist incudes a high‑performance gear system, allowing for reduced manual pull when lifting heavy loads. Safety is a major consideration in this product’s application, with factory-set overload protection which will not allow the chain block to operate if overloaded.

The impact resistant brake and gear covers also offer durability against environmental factors such as dust and rainwater to increase longevity. The Hand Chain Hoist is available in capacities ranging from 500kg to 10 tonnes in standard lifting heights of three to six metres. Larger capacities are also available through special request.

NXTGEN™ Lever Hoist Needle and ball roller bearings define the lever hoist units, allowing minimum effort when lifting loads. Comprehensive safety features are also applied here, including the double pawl brake which instantly holds the load securely, and of course factory-set overload protection. The solid alloy steel frame forms a compact, low-profile build with low headroom, and easy installation. With ZERO PRE-LOAD required, the lever hoist is available in capacities ranging from 800kg to 9 Tonne in standard lifting heights of 1.5 metres.

ADVERTORIAL – GROUT

The importance of grout

selection for dynamic load equipment

A

ll components involved in the installation of rotating and dynamically loaded plant and equipment (including epoxy chocks and grout) should be considered as an entire ‘equipment system.’

When it comes to installation of heavy rotating equipment, often components tend to be thought of as independent and designed to their own sets of guidelines. However, the primary purpose should be to optimise the entire equipment system’s integrity, helping reduce lifecycle costs and maximise long-term reliability “Ensuring a robust foundation and security of mining equipment will save a lot of headaches later on,” explains Steve Keown, National Product Manager for Lubricants at Motion Australia.

“Issues with the grouting system can lead to further damage to equipment parts and a pause on operations, sometimes costing millions of dollars per day on downtime and repairs.”

Epoxy grout is a transfer medium.

Choosing a compatible grouting product is integral to the long-term success of the machine, as it performs various critical roles such as providing and maintaining precision alignment, dampening vibrations and unbalanced loads, and protecting the foundation.

Epoxy grout typically has a larger coefficient of thermal expansion and greater bond strength to concrete than the tensile strength of the concrete.

This means that during both its cure (exothermic or heat generating reaction) and when in service (the diurnal temperature range), the epoxy has potential to ‘pull’ the concrete into and out of tension; inducing stresses which can lead to foundation related failures, if not designed carefully.

Epirez® Chockfast® Red, from ITW Polymers & Fluids, is ideal for grouting large rotating machinery. Made up of three components, and 100 per cent solids, it has a suitably high compressive

strength and negligible shrinkage.

Moreover, Epirez® Chockfast® Red has been carefully formulated to have a very low peak exothermic temperature and a closely matched coefficient of thermal

Relevant applications for Chockfast® Red • Machinery grouting of skid mounted compressors, pumps, turbines, generators, and motors • Deep foundations • Grouting of large anchor bolts • Pipe supports

Features & benefits • Matched compatibility, maximises foundation life • Gentle exotherm, allows for deep continuous pours • Ability to maintain precision alignment • High chemical resistance • Water clean-up means no need for harsh solvents

expansion. This provides structural engineers, equipment vendors and contractors confidence they can design and install ‘equipment systems’ with maximum longevity in mind.

When using Chockfast® Red, greater volume pours are achievable, with the cured epoxy boasting superior resistance to fatigue over time.

Additionally, the grout’s high resistance to creep and vibration allows for sustained critical alignment throughout the machinery’s operating life.

Since 1955, Epirez® has been manufacturing grouting solutions in Australia, pioneering epoxy-based adhesives and coatings for the industrial sectors. Later acquired by ITW Polymers & Fluids, Epirez® continues to make waves in the national adhesives market and can be sourced through Motion Australia’s expansive supply network.

ITW’s global technicians team works closely with local representatives from both BSC and CBC, offering premium solutions backed by decades of experience.

A Motion Australia representative can offer expert advice on best practice installation of Epirez® Chockfast® Red in a mining or quarry environment.

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

13

ADVERTORIAL – EPOXY

Dry or wet,

B

LOCTITE® has you set

enjamin Franklin famously once said that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” This approach to industrial maintenance has led many industry players to factor in issues before they arise, ultimately reducing equipment failure and subsequent losses. Michael Rowe, Category Manager – Lubricants, Adhesives and Chemical at Motion Australia, says that in his experience there is a clear distinction between customers who are proactive, and those who are reactive when it comes to worksite management.

barrier against weather, dust pollution and particle damage, the PC 7332™ extends the life of critical parts up to three times, helping to mitigate faults and reduce replacement turnover.

The key feature of this product is its capacity to resist both wet slurry and dry particle abrasion. This flexible application renders it perfectly suited to many outdoor worksites, and at different stages of the industry pipeline. Transport elbows and chutes are subject to dry particle abrasion, while desulfurization pumps and ducts, slurry pumps and

slag granulation pumps are subject to severe wet abrasion. The PC 7332™ epoxy resin system addresses these niche requirements of mine or quarrying plants, and offers drastically extended product life without complex application.

“Component and part failures are sometimes inevitable, but making sure you are prepared by utilising preventative measures, such as applying protective coatings, can drastically extend replacement intervals and avoid unplanned shutdowns,” he explains.

High contact areas on industrial worksites are often subject to accelerated wear and degradation. When rough or heavy parts are consistently creating abrasive impact, this can lead to significantly decreased equipment lifespan and the likelihood of unplanned downtime due to component failure. Not applying preventative measures to protect the longevity of equipment can lead to an overall negative impact on site efficiency, as well as less Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF).

The LOCTITE® PC 7332™ wear resistant compound from Henkel is designed to combat these problems over a range of applications such as slurry pump structures, pipes, ducts and chutes.

This high-grade wear protective coating helps to protect, rebuild and repair on‑site equipment and is suited to the harsh environmental factors of the mining industry, especially equipment subjected to severe wet abrasion.

The silicon carbide filled 2K epoxy system offers superior abrasion resistance when compared to aluminium oxide based epoxies, and is easy to mix and apply without sag or slump. By forming a robust

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MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

“Utilising preventative measures, such as applying protective coatings, can drastically extend replacement intervals and avoid unplanned shutdowns.”

MADDIE THE MINER TRUSTS LOCTITE® PC 7332™ • Silicon carbide based 2k epoxy offers superior abrasion resistance • Outstanding resistance against fine particle abrasion in both wet and dry conditions • Broad range of temperature resistance • Easy mixing and application without slump • Functional cure in only six hours, reducing costly downtime

Additionally, the silicon carbide filled protective coating boasts wide temperature resistance in both wet and dry settings. Its full operating range is between -30 to 120°C, and it can withstand wet slurry temperature of up to 90°C. Having undergone rigorous testing including a dry abrasion, slurry abrasion, Miller slurry and gas jet erosion tests in varying conditions, this wear resistant two-part compound holds up extremely well against harsh environmental elements.

Incredibly efficient, this product has just a six hour functional cure time, meaning that surface preparation, application and curing can all take place within a 10 hour window, getting the machinery back up and running swiftly. The 10kg kit has a 0.74m2 coverage when applied at 6mm thickness, and can be easily applied with a trowel.

LOCTITE®’s full range of high‑performance wear protective coatings are available to customers through their local Motion Australia branch. Representatives are available to conduct site inspections and assess the most appropriate products and applications for specific business needs.

ADVERTORIAL – GEARMOTORS

Gearmotors designed to drive heavy loads

Benefits of the HDO series include •H ighly transmissible power • Robustness • Reliability •M ounting flexibility •U sable in explosive environments • Certification •L ong service life •L ow maintenance costs

B

ulk handling equipment such as feeders and conveyors are essential to mines and quarries; they enable the transfer of materials from one stage of the process to the next. However, the drives that power these conveying systems need to be robust and hard wearing enough to withstand the rigours of their application.

Among the challenges posed to gear units in these applications is the dusty environment, high load shocks caused by material drops and the requirement to have a high breaking torque at startup. With a long history in producing and distributing gearboxes suitable to the Australian mining sector, Bonfiglioli is well placed to advise and assist customers with heavy-duty applications such as these. They are also a strategic partner of Motion Australia, meaning customers stand to benefit from the expertise of experienced drive engineers from both companies.

To support feeder and conveyor applications, the Bonfiglioli HDO Series Helical Bevel Heavy Duty Gear Units have been designed with special features to ensure their robustness, reliability, and longevity. These features include a high output torque, mounting flexibility and the ability to operate in explosive atmospheres (they are ATEX certified).

The HDO Helical Bevel Heavy Duty Gear

•V ersatility with modular system Units are also completely customisable.

These gear units can be provided as complete solutions for feeders and conveyors that integrate base plates and torque arms. They’re protected with paints and seals to simplify machine design and protect them from the tough environments in which they operate.

Customers can also choose from a wide range of invertors for tuning the operating speeds of feeders and conveyors, thereby reducing energy consumption.

Additionally, Bonfiglioli’s gearboxes are modular, allowing for easy installation and change outs. This also means that Bonfiglioli can cater to local demand by maintaining stock of the gearbox components. They work with Motion Australia to ensure critical stock is stockpiled and units can be custom-built to meet the demands of customers in the mining and quarrying sectors.

Before selecting a heavy-duty gear unit, it’s essential that customers make sure their supplier and the solution meets the brief in terms of quality. Through Motion Australia’s branch network, customers have access to Bonfiglioli’s high quality HDO series. Customers can ask their local branch for advice on the most suitable gear unit for their application. The HDO series is just one solution that Bonfiglioli has available for the mine and quarry industries.

•A fter-sales service and maintenance •C ustomisable – can add accessories and there are a range of options to choose from

Key features •S pheroidal cast iron housing • I /O shaft planarity and gearbox symmetry •W ide range of options and accessories •H igh design standards •A tex - gearbox for explosive environments 2G/2D

Options available •F an cooling, cooling coil, oil heater •E xternal cooling unit • Backstop •F orced lubrication •T emperature and oil level sensors • Drywell •T aconite seals •A TEX certification for explosive environments

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

15

BEARINGS

Investing in the future

of responsible Australian gold mining

G

old prospecting and mining has been inextricably linked with Queensland’s settler history since the 1850s. From the remote yet bountiful gold fields of the Palmer River, to the still fruitful broader Rockhampton region, the state’s economic and political timeline can be mapped in direct correlation with the value of this highly sought-after precious metal.

Today, the gold industry around Rockhampton and Bundaberg prioritises environmental stewardship and social responsibility, as many mining companies seek to work alongside traditional landowners and local communities to pursue a more ethical approach.

As Branch Manager at BSC Bundaberg, Dale Jackson has a long-standing relationship with one of Queensland’s most sustainability-conscious gold mining operations. He explains that this ongoing affiliation exemplifies Motion

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MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

Australia’s core priority of investing in sustainable industrial operations.

“I have been going to their site as a sales representative for over 12 years. We have continued to move forward, supplying them with an improved range of quality products and solutions to support this vision of more ethical practices. It has helped us build trust as a key problem solver for them on site, and they can rely on us to be available should any issues ever arise.”

This particular customer practices a high degree of transparency when it comes to meeting international standards of ethics, in line with key rating agencies such as the Dow Jones Sustainability Index Australia. They are also openly committed to meeting statutory global climate initiatives such as the Taskforce

on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC).

“Environmental impact is a primary concern for a lot of mining operations looking into the future,” Dale points out. “Every plant needs to incorporate sustainability efforts, and that means leaning on reliable equipment and in doing so enables us to supply this customer with premium solutions and contributing to that effort, essentially making it more streamlined and accessible for them to upgrade and become increasingly energy efficient.”

BSC’s relationship with key supply partners actively supports this important

Decarbonisation in Australian gold mining Reaching net-zero is rapidly becoming a primary focus for the national mining industries. As a growing investment opportunity and response to climate change, the adoption of green energy and decarbonisation are being heavily prioritised on a global scale. Australia is leading the way for responsible gold extraction, with many companies utilising new technologies to minimise their overall carbon footprint.

focus for Motion Australia. When dealing with this customer, Dale identified that their fleet of 12 dump trucks used cooling fans to prevent overheating on electrics and brake components, and identified that they were already using Rexnord’s durable range of Link-Belt Spherical Roller Bearings.

“As a leader in bearings and power transmission equipment, we align ourselves with only the best supply partners in the industry,” he says.

“Rexnord is one of them, and they have developed a strong reputation within our customer-base as a genuinely excellent provider across many different sectors.”

The Rexnord Link-Belt series boasts a comprehensive portfolio of take-up assemblies, cartridges, inserts and split or solid housed pillow blocks. Their rugged cast iron or steel body provides utmost strength and misalignment capabilities, while also offering field adjustable clearance that is compatible with most standard systems. According to Dale, they are some of the most sought-after and practical bearing products in the Australian market.

“These unitised bearings allow for installation without exposing the internal components to the harsh environment of mining sites. If the plant experiences a windy day or there is lots of dirt around, that can cause issues like corrosion and grit damage. Because these units are

sealed and ready to go, it makes it easier for the fitter to put it into service relatively quickly.”

The PLC Split Block Spherical Rollers are compatible with a diverse range of sealing options, including D8 Taconite, reinforced D5 Pentac flinger seals to protect against contamination, or T-seals for moisture-prone settings. Commonly applied in the mining industry due to their competitive load capacity and flexibility, the Link-Belt housing units can be drilled and tapped to accommodate sensors if necessary. Pry bar slots make opening the housing halves significantly easier, reducing downtime during installation and maintenance procedures.

“This durability against harsh environmental factors, like dust pollution, allows the bearing to keep operating at maximum capacity, and reduces wear for an extended product life cycle,” Dale explains. This is why his customer relies on the durability of the Rexnord Link-Belt Spherical Roller Bearings.

Backed by over 40 years of research and development in bearing technology, Rexnord provides innovative solutions to every-day problems within the mining and quarrying sectors. BSC’s national distribution network allows customers to have access to Rexnord’s broad range of industrial grade products, along with ongoing consultation and servicing from their technical team.

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

17

HYDRAULICS

Crushing it

with hydraulic guillotine gate

I

n true collaborative style, four Motion Australia business units recently came together to solve a specific issue for a mining customer – one that would allow the customer to do critical maintenance work on their belt feeder and crushers. The result was a bespoke hydraulic guillotine gate that was designed, installed, and commissioned out at the customer’s iron ore mine site in the Pilbara.

This customised gate has been designed to shut off the bottom of the feed hopper which prevents any ore from tumbling onto the crusher feed bed.

Importantly, it enables the customer’s maintenance team to isolate a feed hopper and do work on the belt feeder and crusher without any disruption to the site. The specialised gate also makes maintenance on this equipment much safer for maintenance staff.

The project was awarded to CMA engineers who were critical to the gate design, but involved the combined efforts of Motion Australia’s CMA, CRAM, SMS, and CBC business units to successfully deliver it to the customer. In total, the project took less than 3 months to complete from design to commissioning on site.

Initially, the mechanical design work of the gate was completed by a Perth consultancy group who sought input on the hydraulics from CMA engineers.

CMA was then granted the project in full because of their professional relationship with the mining company and the rest of the expertise they could offer through Motion Australia.

As specialists in hydraulics, CMA was responsible for this aspect of the design, including the hydraulic power unit.

Design engineers then worked together with the SMS heavy fabrication unit at their Unanderra branch in Illawarra to manufacture the gate itself and its corresponding infrastructure. CRAM then supplied, manufactured, and fitted the

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MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

hydraulic pipe work to spec. This included a fail-safe lockout system.

Following the design and installation, a Perth-based CBC engineer – wellversed in mining equipment applications – provided technical support at site during the commissioning phase. This was an integral part of the process particularly since interstate travel was not possible during the time of the commissioning. The CBC engineer was able to bring their technical expertise and experience to ensure the gate was properly installed and commissioned to the design specifications out on site.

The inter‑business collaboration and expertise also allowed for any impromptu improvements to be made as the job progressed.

One of the key challenges in the design phase was an issue with the clevis

ends on the hydraulic cylinders. CMA was able to overcome this through consulting with the customer. They discovered that the pins originally specified had not taken into account the load rating of the clevis. They then worked with the hydraulic cylinder supplier and engineering consultants to resize the clevis and the pin correctly to suit both the material property and the load rating. This foresight and collaboration will likely prevent unplanned downtime in the future.

Similarly, SMS engineers discovered that the weld-on trunnion mounts for the cylinders did not leave adequate room for adjustment on the mounting points. This was also resolved with a new design. One where trunnion mounts were bolted to the structure to allow for more flexibility – an important feature considering the length of the welded structure on the gate.

Despite these variations to the design, Motion Australia’s businesses were able to act quickly, and the project stayed on track. Whilst given a tight deadline of 3 months, the cooperation and involvement of the four Motion Australia business units ensured this was achieved. In fact, they finished the job in its entirety – from paper design to the commissioned gate – on budget and earlier than the due date.

AUTOMATION

Earthmoving manufacturer bolsters efficiency thanks to digital stock monitoring

A

stocktake was slowing operations down, so SpecFast implemented the Flexsense system.

Historically, inventory replenishment has been administered on a regular consignment basis, agreed upon by the customer and parts supplier. Due to the mostly repetitive nature of re‑purchasing componentry, suppliers will be responsible for assessing stock levels, adjusting order quantities where necessary, and manually invoicing these deliveries.

ProLocker

utomation is rapidly seeping into almost every aspect of industrial supply chain management, having a significant impact on increased efficiency and accurate delivery of product. SpecFast, part of Motion Australia, is setting an industry standard for site-specific inventory control technology with their three-stage stock management framework.

This system is not without flaws, however, particularly within larger businesses or organisations with multiple workshops placing pressure on the supply chain. Replenishment lead times, assessment consistency, and communication around stock quantity requirements are all subject to fluctuation or human error, complicating operations at the end-line stage.

In answer to these long-standing issues, SpecFast has introduced a site-specific inventory monitoring system, which has been successfully implemented on an Australian site belonging to a global manufacturer operating in the earthmoving sector. Since 1965, this company has been a major supporting body to the mining industry, and is now recognised as one of Australia’s most logistically efficient plants as a result of this collaboration.

SpecFast’s inventory control products have been in place at this site since 2019, and the customer has reported evident benefits including the elimination of out-of-stocks, a simplified supply chain

This technology works by placing the bins on a load sensor, which calculates inventory as it fluctuates based on weight. It is compatible with physically small, high volume products such as fasteners, spare parts, components and consumables. The most impressive feature of Flexsense is its ability to automatically re-calculate upcoming stock orders when the minimum weight of a certain product is approached.

process, increased productivity and success meeting KPIs. RFID Storeroom SpecFast’s innovative Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) room serves as a secure storage facility with gated entry, detailed access records, and project monitoring capabilities. RFID tags are fitted on every stored unit, and are registered by the digital portal once removed to generate 24/7 data collection and daily activity reports.

This information is automatically fed to SpecFast’s platform, to adjust stock holding and distribution to meet future demand. Importantly, this stage of the framework allows for full traceability of batch numbers between the storeroom and the end-product machinery.

Flexsense The customer had been using a storage rack stacked with product bins to hold fastening products that were required on a daily basis. Once the fitters had taken what they needed from this rack, the bins would be manually inspected to determine which parts needed replenishing in the next order. The need for visual inspection and manual

Tool changeover and traceability often slow down productivity on site, especially in larger workshops where movement between the project and storage location takes longer. ProLocker ensures that the necessary tools are readily accessible and close to hand at all times.

The ProLocker cabinets resemble vending machines for hand tools, and can be adjusted in size due to removable and interlocking shelves. Designed to be placed at convenient locations across a site, they can store a collection of nominated equipment to suit current projects. This system inherently strengthens security, and accessibility to minimise downtime.

Each locker is fitted with a battery charger, and can be accessed with an employee swipe card during scheduled time periods. Tool selection can be made via barcode, QR code, or description, and barriers requiring proof of license can be implemented if necessary. Similarly to the RFID Storeroom and Flexsense fitting, this system generates an automated data feed on the details of each interaction – what tool was taken, who by, for how long and its used. This has immediate benefits when attempting to locate certain tools, and long-term implications on increased efficiency.

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

19

ADVERTORIAL – DIESEL REFUELLING KITS

Stay ahead of the curve

with the latest in fluid transfer technology

R

efuelling mobile equipment on mine sites can be challenging if operators must rely solely on traditional stationary diesel storage tanks that are in a fixed location on site. Operators lose time driving mobile equipment back to refilling stations, which slows down their productivity and burns up additional diesel fuel during the trip.

A more flexible and cost-effective solution for mining operators is a portable diesel transfer pump. There are hundreds of different applications for diesel transfer pumps, which makes them one of the most essential pieces of equipment on the market.

The advantages of investing in a diesel transfer pump are that they allow for convenient, accessible, lightweight, fuel transport while working in the field.

Where safety is a concern or the risk of leaks and spillage, diesel refuelling pumps can also be used safely in a variety of environmental conditions– however dirty, dusty or remote–as they provide a secure storage solution for clean transfer.

Selecting the right diesel transfer pump can be daunting unless operators know exactly what to look for. There are a number of factors to consider such as

the type of vehicle being used; manual versus electric pump arrangements; the distance fuel will be pumped; flow rate; available power sources; and site conditions.

Motion Australia’s knowledgeable fuel transfer experts regularly provide consult to mining operations through their national network of branches, as well as joint site calls with keys strategic suppliers of fuel transfer solutions.

At the forefront of these partnerships is Australian owned and operated Alemlube who are well-recognised for their innovative off-the-shelf fuel transfer, storage, and dispensing solutions that can maximise vehicle uptime while reducing maintenance and operational costs.

The new Alemlube 12V lockable diesel refuelling storage and dispensing kits Designed to be a practical, user-friendly solution using the latest diesel fuel tank technology, the Alemlube 12V lockable diesel refuelling storage and dispensing kits consist of a locally manufactured polyethylene tank with built in nozzle holster, a 12V patented Italian manufactured pump, a four‑metre‑long antistatic fuel delivery hose,

two‑metre‑long battery cables, and an auto shut‑off nozzle.

The unique lockable design allows the hose and nozzle to be used even when the lid is closed and locked. This feature also reduces the risk of contaminating the pump housing compartment while in use.

Available in four sizes – 100 litre tank capacity, 200 litre, 450 litre and 600 litre– the robust design of Alemlube’s lockable diesel refuelling storage and dispensing kits makes them ideal for heavy industrial applications.

To speak to a technical representative about fuel transfer solutions for your site, contact your local Motion Australia branch today.

WHY MADDIE THE MINER RECOMMENDS ALEMLUBE LOCKABLE DIESEL REFUELLING STORAGE AND DISPENSING KITS • Lockable and secure • Heavy duty polyethylene tank • Unique user-friendly design •D ispensing kit components security • 1 2V Italian manufactured pump •4 m long antistatic fuel delivery hose • 2-metre-long battery cables • Built in nozzle holster • Auto shut off nozzle • Forklift lifting points • Tie down capability • Tank baffles aid vehicle stability • Suits all single and twin cab utes • Dispensing rates of up to 50 L/min

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MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

ADVERTORIAL – SEVERE DUTY MOTORS

Reducing annual energy costs with high-efficiency motor solutions

D

id you know that an electric motor’s purchase price represents only 2% of its total cost of ownership?

According to the International Energy Agency, 69% of the energy used by industrial applications is related to electric motors, which are the driving force behind conveyor processes, pumps, heating and ventilation systems, and air compressors.

TECO Maxe3 Premium Severe Duty Key Features

TECO MaXe3 Mining Key Features

The annual energy cost of running motors on a mining operation far exceeds their initial purchase price.

For example: At a rate of 15 cents per kilowatt-hour, a typical 15kW continuous running motor uses almost $21,000 worth of electricity annually – about 18 times its initial purchase price.

• Precision and rugged cast iron construction including fan

•P recision and rugged cast iron construction including fan

• Class F insulation system

•C lass H insulation system

• 1.5 service factor at 40°C ambient

•S uperior inverter- rated insulation (8500V/microsecond)

Replacing old standard efficiency 15kW motors can dramatically reduce your annual energy cost

• True IP66 with porous drain plugs

“Replacing existing standard motors will immediately reduce a mine site’s annual electricity cost and delivering return on investment in less than 1.5 years,” according to Steve Hittmann, Motion Australia’s National Category Manager for Mechanical Drive Systems -Electric Motors. “In fact, the older the motor and the larger the motor’s kW per hour– the quicker the returns.”

• Thermistors for frames D160 and larger

“Motors are often mismatched—or oversized—for the load they are intended to serve,” says Steve.

“Therefore, determining if motors are properly loaded enables operators to make informed decisions about when to replace motors and which replacements to choose.”

To compare the operating costs of an existing standard motor with an appropriately sized energy efficient replacement, Steve recommends that, with the help of motor efficiency experts like Motion Australia, mine site operators calculate operating hours, efficiency improvement values, and load.

• Suitable for 55°C ambient at rated output

• TECO renowned grease relief system

• 1 .2 service factor at 40°C ambient •S uitable for 60°C ambient at rated output •T rue IP66 with porous drain plugs •T ECO renowned grease relief system •T wo sets of thermistors for frames D160 and larger

As a key supplier of electric motors to major mine sites in Australia, Motion works closely with motor manufacturers, such as TECO, to work out the cost‑benefits of adopting high-efficiency motors in mines.

Designed to withstand the heavy operating conditions of the mining industry, the TECO MAXe3 Mining and TECO MAXe3 Premium Severe Duty motors, offer an output range of 0.18 to 450kW, suitable for a wide range of applications.

The TECO MAXe3 high efficiency motors comply with IE3 efficiency level of IEC60034-30-1 standard and are designed to exceed the high efficiency requirements from Greenhouse and Energy Minimum Standards (GEMS) acts and regulations.

Not only do the motors exceed appropriate high efficiency standards, but they also offer superior power factor by minimising transmission losses in the supply cables and transformers and can operate safely in ambient temperatures of -20°C to 60°C in mining environments.

“At Motion Australia we want to help mine sites reduce their total cost of ownership by replacing standard motors with high‑efficiency motor solutions,” concludes Steve. “And TECO’s MAXe3 range offer the best efficiency available to the Australian market.”

To speak to a Motion Australia representative about replacing existing standard motors with high-efficiency alternatives, contact your local branch today.

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

21

HOSE

Pumping up the mining sector in North Queensland

A

As a customer of Motion Australia’s Advanced Industrial Products (AIP), PPS sources components for mining client applications from AIP’s extensive range of hose, valve, and fitting products.

pump system is a principal piece of equipment on a mining operation for transferring and metering fluids on site. The cost of a pump system failure to a mining operation can have a significant impact on a mine site’s operational capacity and impair a site’s ability to keep the production of critical minerals and resources moving along.

Area Manager for AIP North Queensland, Luke Westwick has been working with Guy and his team at PPS for several years to supply the latest in hose, valve, and fitting technology for the pump systems that they design for clients in the mining segment.

For Townsville’s Professional Pump Services (PPS), ensuring mining operations are equipped with reliable pump solutions is a priority for their business.

“Our relationship with PPS has been mutually beneficial, and it extends beyond simply selling products. Our team provide technical support to our customers to ensure that they are delivering the best possible system to their customers. We take care to follow up with PPS on how our products perform over the long term,” says Luke.

“The function of pumps in the mining industry varies from pumping clean cold water; transporting and storing of waste or storm water; and ensuring there is pressurised water for dust suppression, moving and separating materials for all mining processes,” according to General Manager, Guy Denmead.

“We work with our mining clients to implement premium quality, reliable, pump solutions from design to installation, to after market services, so operations can have peace of mind with better performance and reduced maintenance on their mining pump applications.”

With over 20 years of industry experience behind them, PPS has established its reputation locally as a provider of premium pump systems, assisting customers in the mining sector with the design and implementation of a host of pump products including submersible pumps, electric pumps, pump stations, centrifugal pumps, helical rotor pumps, turbine pumps, and gear pumps.

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MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

Mandals Wellman 300 Hose • Rapid installation and retrieval of submersible pump • Made from high-grade polyurethane to resist chemicals, UV, abrasion, and microbes • Woven textile reinforcement swells up to 15% for increased tensile strength • No flanges or joints except at the pump headworks • Low maintenance compared to rigid pipe • Easy to store and transport • Superior hydraulic performance • Zero corrosion or scale build-up

Most recently, PPS has been sourcing a good quantity of the Mandals Wellman 300 hose from AIP to be integrated into mine site pump applications.

The Wellman hose was designed to be a more versatile and flexible alternative to the tradition method of running rigid piping on sites for submersible pumps and bore holes and has become a popular choice for designing pump solutions.

“In the past, a lot of pump solutions used steel, PVC or polyethylene piping for fluid transfer on site,” explains Luke. “The challenges with these pump systems were primarily with the installation and retrieval processes. The pipes required a lot of clearance and would need to be hoisted by cranes on installation. Later, when maintenance staff would pull the pumps out for repairs and upkeep, there would

“The hose element is positioned alongside the stationary pump housing and compressed from the outside by shoes mounted to a coupling – making the pump construction and operation elegantly simplified.”

be a tremendous amount of time and labour exhausted lifting them out again.”

Using hose instead of piping delivers mine sites a significant advantage when handling fluid materials from both a cost perspective and overall performance, according to Luke.

“Hose allows for simple installation and a quick retrieval process for maintenance and repairs, but it also has very good hydraulic advantages,” he explains. “The tensile strength of a hose is greater than rigid pipe, there is less friction during fluid transfer, and lower risk of damage to the pump system.”

“The Wellman system also has no flanged joints, or moving parts in the stream except for at the headworks,” he continues. “The hose element is positioned alongside the stationary pump housing and compressed from the outside by shoes mounted to a coupling – making the pump construction and operation elegantly simplified.”

“Mandals also offer a hydraulic analysis program for different pump applications. By simply letting us know a few details of the pump we can provide a document to the customer

with flow rates, and pressure at the outlet for their specific project.”

“We take in to account all the effects that could alter a pumps performance such as static loss and swell of the hose. This provides the customer with peace of mind knowing that they have selected the correct size hose for the application.”

Additionally, because the hose is moving all the time, there is no corrosion or scale build up inside the walls or the hose or meeting the product stream – making it an ideal pumping solution for the less forgiving substances on mine sites such as abrasive slurries, Luke explains.

Mining pumps can weigh well over 100 kilos which means the hose will be under constant tension during operations. For this reason, Luke says the Mandals Wellman 300 hose stands out from other hose products on the market because of its unique construction properties.

“The Wellman 300 hose swells up to 15% of its size for increased tensile strength under operational conditions because the hose is reinforced with an innovative woven textile in its design,” he says. “This extends its serviceable life before fatigue and reduces maintenance requirements, which equates to huge cost savings for miners.”

AIP is the preferred supplier of Mandals hose products, importing and distributing it Australia-wide.

“My customers in Northern Queensland know that they can call me up anytime with a request, send me the specs of their pump design, and rely on the team at AIP to supply the hose from our regional warehouse on a short turnaround time,” concludes Luke.

“As one of Australia’s largest suppliers of hose, we are preferred by contractors precisely because we have first contact with so many market‑leading brands.”

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

23

GREEN CLEANERS

CRC provides a well-rounded

range of environmentally conscious products

A

s a trusted supply partner of Motion Australia, CRC is focused on making environmentally conscious products which makes a positive impact for mining and quarrying sites, through various low‑impact maintenance products. In providing environmentally conscious products this creates efficient lubrication and cleaning solutions.

CRC is committed to protecting the environment and ensuring their operations are conducted in a manner that prevents pollution and preserves natural resources. This is done through using sustainable materials while ensuring compliance with prescribed quality and safety regulations.

“Our role at Motion Australia is to help introduce these products to the mining industry and make sure they are readily available,” says Steve Keown, National Product Manager for Lubricants and Lubrication Products at Motion Australia.

“It is crucial that these sectors transition to a maintenance plan that aims to minimise pollutants as well as risks to staff.”

The CRC range is backed by the expert advice of health, safety and environmental (HSE) managers, who work closely with customers and Motion Australia businesses, such as CBC, to implement the best-suited processes

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MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

for safe cleaning. Where these products are applied across multiple points within a plant, mining companies can build stronger momentum towards significantly reducing their material impact on local surroundings.

CRC Brakleen® Water Based A more eco-friendly expansion on the CRC range of heavy duty mechanical maintenance products, this nontoxic cleaner can be applied on brake and clutch parts, as well as general mechanical equipment. It is pH neutral, non-corrosive, solvent free, non‑flammable, and biodegradable and safe for staff to use within confined spaces.

All of the ingredients are easily decomposable. This formula is designed for safe removal of grease, oil brake fluid, and hardened deposits without the need for equipment disassembly, which increases overall production time and reduces maintenance costs.

CRC Bio Degreaser CRC’s aim to implement greener solutions on a broad scale is exemplified with the Bio Degreaser product.

Bio Degreaser is pH neutral, non-toxic, non-flammable, and non-corrosive, without compromising on industrial grade cleaning power. It has proven high performance on engines,

bearings, motors, chains, conveyors, hydraulic systems and tapping applications. It has a range of different packs sizes which creates flexibility for the end user.

CRC SmartWasher® System Already making waves within the Australian mining industry, CRC’s SmartWasher® system and accompanying Ozzy Juice form an innovative approach to parts cleaning that combines worker safety and increased sustainability on-site.

According to Steve, this apparatus is a premium alternative to traditional solvent-based cleaners that is just as thorough in removing grease, crude oil, ink, varnish and burned-on carbon.

“The Ozzy Juice (which is the liquid) cleans the contaminants off the parts and the microbes within the fluid cleans the Ozzy Juice. It is a lot safer for both the environment and end user and has the economic benefits of not needing to replace cleaning fluid every month,” says Steve.

The SmartWasher® SW 37 unit, in conjunction with the new X1 Ozzy Juice has been manufactured specifically for the mining industry.

CRC Australia has a national footprint with a technically proficient team well versed in working on site with CBC and the end users.

BELTS

Rock-hard reliability

Q

on Victorian quarrying plants

uarrying is an integral aspect of the Australian mining pipeline, generating a broad range of valuable materials such as limestone, rocks, and dimension stone. Other raw materials and aggregates such as sand or gravel are also extracted through the quarrying process, to be used in a broad range of infrastructural development projects.

Local geology and deposit types largely determine where a quarry site will be established, with efficiency and cost of operations at the forefront of those decisions. Additionally, impact on the natural environment and local communities must be considered, and the design of the plant and equipment will prioritise minimal noise, waste output, spatial footprint and cost.

Industrial quarrying operations have a long-standing history in Victoria, dating back to the 1800s around Edgecombe, Lauristone, and Malmsbury, where small quarrying plots on private land became common. Today, the state is home to many rock and aggregate quarrying plants that contribute to Australia’s overall extraction capital. Brian Crouch, Senior Account Manager at CBC Geelong, works closely alongside several mining and quarrying sites within the region, and was recently involved in a project to upgrade

a series of heavy-duty crushers for a local company.

to last up to 18 months and offers superior power ratings.

“I have been looking after this customer’s account since they opened,” he says.

“I still go down to the site every three months to deliver our engineering services package and supply. I often get involved in a lot of the design for replacements and upgrades, whether it is on their fans, gearboxes, motors or drives.

I have an excellent relationship with their planning engineers, maintenance team and fitters, having worked with them over many years.”

“Before I got involved in that project, they had some major issues with equipment failure,” Brian explains.

“I was able to use my knowledge and engineering experience to come up with a new design that fit that application, and they have been extremely satisfied with it since.”

Power transmission in mining landscapes is designed to resist interference and damage from coarse dust particles, extreme temperature ranges and vibration. Frequent crusher jams may also occur, often caused by oversized rocks, wet material, or undetected metal components. While such interferences are mostly unavoidable, operators can minimise change-over time of parts such as drive belts to eliminate costly delays.

After consulting with CBC, this customer opted to install the Fenner SuperTLink High Performance Composite (HPC) v-belts on various rock crushing and screening machines. Where the previously utilised conventional rubber v-belts were failing on average twice a month, the SuperTLink has the capacity

According to Rob Michelson, National Product Manager for Belts at Motion Australia, the HPC range from Fenner, including the SuperTLink, PowerTwist Plus, and NuTLink belts, offer crucial benefits relating to convenience and ease of replacement.

“The SuperTLink is an excellent product for mining or crushing sites to have on hand,” he explains, “as you can get multiple replacement belts at any desired length immediately, and they roll on just like a bicycle chain – no tools required. It changes the game in terms of spares management and declutters that inventory space.

The re‑tensioning mechanism is also drastically simplified by the ability to isolate and remove any link easily without turning on the drive.”

The Fenner HPC belts are engineered for drop-in upgrades and compatibility with standard industry power ratings and pulley grooves. The custom polyurethane elastomer material boasts extended product life and resistance to hostile agitators such as oil, grease, water, chemicals and solvents. They are also abrasion resistant and tolerant of an extreme temperature range between from -40°C to 116°C. “CBC can offer tailored auditing and application guidance to avoid misalignment or breakage on drive systems,” says Brian. “We are intimately knowledgeable on the Fenner range and have an excellent relationship with their technical team to offer customers comprehensive service in relation to their products.”

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

25

BEARING

Downtime foiled

T

by exceptional bearing solution

he extraction and processing of aluminium metal can be broken down into three key stages: the mining of bauxite ore, refining that ore to recover alumina, and then the smelting of alumina to produce aluminium sheets or ingots. This type of metal is prized for its strong yet lightweight properties, as well as its resistance to rusting.

Although aluminium is the third most abundant element to be found in the Earth’s crust (after oxygen and silicone), it has only been widely utilised over the last 100 years. This is because it does not exist in nature in a pure state, and must be extracted from compounds through an intensive refining process.

Australia’s aluminium industry is the world’s largest producer of bauxite, despite having only been in commercial operation since 1955. It is a major contributor to employment and the national economy, generating around 21 million tonnes of alumina material each year.1

Popular with OEM customers, these NTN units have been generating widespread positive feedback following extended operating life on different sites.

Michael Greelish, National Accounts Manager for Mining at Motion Australia, worked recently with a Victorian aluminium smelting business to implement NTN’s angular contact ball bearings on various machinery parts to great success. The company itself produces approximately 300,000 tonnes of aluminium every year, adhering to robust environmental management plans and sustainability targets.

“Put simply, the NTN product is one of the best on the market, and can be fitted without fuss if the situation calls for efficiency,” explains Michael. “When you have got a failure on a generic bearing, or need to carry out maintenance change-overs, the last thing you want is extended downtime. These angular contact ball bearings also feature a ‘flush ground’ finishing method, which allows for universal pairing and back-to-back arrangement if required.”

“We are proud to support such a forward‑thinking player in the Australian mining space, supplying them with the best quality bearing components to ensure that they meet efficiency targets,” says Michael.

Resistant to premature fatigue, this product has proven longevity in harsh mining conditions and under extreme pressure peaks. The steel bearing cages are set to maintain rolling elements at a uniform pitch, so that the load does not fall onto the cage directly. This prevents the rolling elements from falling out when the bearing is handled by fitters or technicians.

“CBC carried out assessment on their application where part failure was becoming a costly issue, and recommended the angular contact ball bearings from NTN as a premium, long-term solution that could promise reliability.”

26

These non-separable bearings are incredibly useful, due to their ability to support simultaneous radial and single‑direction axial pressure. Because of this, they are usually used in pairs or sets to transmit load between raceways along a radial plane.

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

“Their design is seriously smart, and addresses the concerns of every-day industrial operations,” reflects Michael.

“Pretty much any application requiring angular bearings could benefit from this product, because they are available in such a broad catalogue of sizes and arrangements.”

Since 1971, CBC and NTN have operated under a joint venture partnership, delivering expert engineering products to the Australian mining market and beyond. As one of the top five bearing manufacturers in the world, NTN sets an international standard for end-to-end logistical service and supply.

Features and benefits of the NTN Angular Contact Ball Bearings •P eak performance in high or low temperature settings •L ower starting friction coefficient •L ow lubrication consumption • I nternationally standardised and readily available through CBC • I mproved pre-loading due to bearing rigidity •A ccessible and efficient product numbering system •C an simultaneously support radial and axial loads 1. https://aluminium.org.au/australian-industry/

BELTS

Rough copper mining sites

C

opt for super strength drive belts

also extremely compact and lightweight, constructed with fibre‑loaded compound for improved stability.

opper is thought to be the first metal used by humans, prized for its malleability and later, its ability to conduct electricity. It can be beaten into sheets or moulded into a thin wire without fracturing, and can be found in construction, plumbing components, industrial machinery, cars and other electronics.

Australia is a major contributor to the international copper market, with several mines located across the Northern Territory and Queensland. CBC works alongside their customers in this sector to determine the best suited machinery parts, including power transmission belts, built to withstand the harsh underground mining environments.

“Usually we will visit a site and do a complete drive analysis to assess the specific fitting requirements,” explains Rob Michelson, National Product Manager for Belts at Motion Australia.

“We recently recommended the Gates Super HC® to one of the copper mine customers in Townsville, because they are extremely compact and best suited to the challenges of that particular setting.”

According to Sam Wilkinson, Motion Australia’s Mining Manager for North Queensland, the longstanding and collaborative relationship with Gates as a

“We have changed out a lot of classical v-belts for these Super HCs®, because they run on the same style pulleys,” explains Rob. “This can reduce the number of belts required on one wedge pulley by four or five, which obviously minimises the overall cost of the drive. There also is not as much overhang load on the drive shafts – it is a more spatially conservative application that also has greater weight bearing limits.”

supply partner significantly benefits the end-line users.

“When Gates and CBC are both involved in a design, the longevity of the drive system increases dramatically,” he says.

“From the installation to the ongoing maintenance – whether it is a pump, crusher, conveyor or fan, it is much more likely to supersede the original wear life.”

He elaborates by saying, “Gates has incredible technical support in Australia, and will always go above and beyond to work with us on supply solutions.

They are not just a basic commodity manufacturer – they will incorporate the engineering and design of their products into the service offering as an ongoing point of reference for us as the supplier, and the customers.”

The Super HC® narrow, cross‑section v-belts are capable of transmitting up to three times the amount of power as classical cross‑section systems. They are

“When we make a selection on the Super HCs®, we know that they have lifespan capacity in excess of 25,000 hours,” he continues. “They are designed to keep performing in dusty, dirt-ridden and gritty environments – these belts boast a lot more than what it might look like on first impression.”

The innovative Super HC® v-belt design runs on a wedge-shaped pulley system, transmitting power through tension to drive a pump, gearbox or similar machinery on-site. According to Rob, Gates has pioneered this design for heavy industries, and it is now the most popular v-belt solution in the Australian mining market.

The Gates Curves technology allows full contact with the pulley grooves for the uniform loading of cords, resulting in even wear and extended product life. The Flex-Weave patented fabric cover offers increased heat protection and resistance against oil and dirt. Additionally, the material is non self‑igniting, meaning the belt will not catch on fire due to severe slippage or heat build-up.

“We have had nothing but excellent feedback on these belt products from customers in the mining industry,” concludes Rob. “The simple fact that they return to us for servicing and replacements is a good sign that the belts are excelling in terms of performance and reliability.”

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27

ENERGY

The cost value in energy audits for hydraulic systems

A

lmost every stage of mining involves hydraulic systems – from the excavation to the drilling, crushing and breaking of stone, to the transport of material from the site. As such, its essential to keep hydraulic systems in power and running optimally.

However, optimal is the key word.

Energy consumption is a primary challenge for the Australian mining sector.

It’s been estimated that the industry consumes around the same amount of electricity per year as Portugal. With electricity costs rising and increased pressure to reduce carbon emissions, one way a mining operation can quickly realise some savings is through an energy audit. Targeted energy audits – such as those which identify potential waste or inefficiencies in the energy used for hydraulic systems – can unveil opportunities that reduce expenses and improve the bottom line.

“As its name suggests, an energy audit is an analysis of efficiency and costs of the energy used within a mining operation,” explains Michael Greelish, National Account Manager for Mining, Quarrying, and Resources at Motion Australia. “Hydraulic systems are one of the biggest consumers of power, so doing a hydraulic‑specific energy audit can identify some quick savings. It’s like picking the ‘low hanging fruit’ to cut costs and increase profit.”

An energy audit takes a three-way approach that includes an assessment of energy consumption, energy waste

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MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

and recommendations as to how improvements can be made.

“Questions a mining business might ask are, ‘how do I achieve savings through an audit?’ and ‘what’s the return of investment on an audit?’,” posits Michael.

“While there are no absolutes, the objective of a hydraulic systems audit will be to get these systems running with less pumps or smaller pumps, or configured differently so that they use less power.

If that objective is achieved, then the savings will be swift, and that will more than justify the costs of an audit – ROI could be achieved in months.”

Michael advises that Motion Australia’s specialist hydraulics business, CRAM, is well-positioned to assist mining companies with hydraulic energy audits.

“CRAM has been synonymous with all aspects of hydraulic power for over 20 years and the energy audits undertaken

by CMA – CRAM’s engineering division – are second to none,” says Michael. “These have extended the company’s reputation for hydraulic excellence and delivered thousands of dollars of direct and indirect savings to customers in the mines and quarries segment.”

In particular, large hydraulic systems offer opportunity for significant energy and cost savings, as these systems typically have multi-pump installations where pumps are set to run around the clock.

“An audit would take into account the total amount of hydraulic power being made available against the amount required, so

you could achieve savings by only running as many pumps that are actually required or through identifying components that are wasting energy or need maintenance,” says Michael. “This is where the savings can really add up.”

In one example, CMA carried out an audit on a hydraulic system that comprised three 120kW pumpsets of which only two were being powered up at any one time.

They found that the power unit was only being utilised for a maximum of 32% in all its operations, indicating the system could be run on just the one pump.

“This translated to a significant savings of 27.5MWh of power each month – or almost $3000”, enthuses Michael. “It’s important to note that these savings can be realised without any additional expenditure; just a small PLC change carried out by onsite staff.”

Additionally, the CMA analysis found that the baseline leakage for the system was around double what it should have been.

With valve maintenance, they estimated they could cut the power usage by 32.4MWh per month.

“These examples illustrate the benefits of an audit, but to achieve them you need the right data and the right people to analyse the data, this is where the CMA team of experts come in,” says Michael.

“They have the experience and expertise to make the right recommendations. If you’re interested in commissioning an audit, please get in touch with your local Motion Australia branch and we’ll make it happen.”

CHAIN

Testing the limits

W

of hydraulic engineering

ith research and development comes adaptions to part design, and componentry such as bearings, fasteners and chain must all adjust to accommodate the constant evolution of mining environments.

While it is vital for commonly used parts to undergo these upgrades, it does present challenges around compatibility with servicing equipment like chain tensioners.

In the coal mining industry, productivity and uptime are core priorities when establishing the extraction site. Because of this, a technique known as ‘longwall mining’ has been utilised on many plants across Australia, and is popular worldwide for its extreme efficiency. Longwall machines possess shearers that are mounted on hydraulic ceiling supports – these machines extract long rectangular panels of coal which are then transported by conveyor out of the mine.

This coal haulage system is known as an Armoured Face Conveyor (AFC), and is fitted with one-sided troughs to transport an endless stream of raw material in individual sections that are joined by flexible couplings, giving it a snake-like appearance as it runs. These drive systems usually have a double or

triple AFC chain, with flights cantilevered on each side and a singular return chain running along the base.

Correct chain tensioning is critically important to ensure smooth operation and high performance of any conveyor type. This involves a hydraulic control circuit, running through dual cylinders to apply start-up force and avoid breakaway friction. AFC chain is structurally unique however, in that each link has a thick rib running through its centre. This makes it generally incompatible with standard chain tensioners, which rely on a hooking technique.

Boutique mechanical consultancy, PHD Engineering, was seeking to develop a bespoke longwall chain tensioner to service their clients in the mining industry. A collaboration with CRAM has eventuated in a new tensioner design, maintaining the functionality of standard models while accounting for the structural characteristics of AFC systems. The final machine incorporates more robust hydraulic components, with a system operating pressure of 450 bar maximum.

This tensioner can deliver roughly 28 tonnes of pull force, well within the mining requirement of 25 tonnes.

The component layout aims to protect the hydraulic components from excessive operation stresses to avoid potential failure or accelerated wear. It features a hand pump used to prime the system prior to start-up, and key characteristics of standard tensioners such as stroke, optimised barrel diameter, rod length and pin-to-pin distance.

CRAM manufactured the entire cylinder in-house, utilising Motion Australia’s large supplier network for componentry and raw materials. The design came about under a reverse-engineering approach on the old tensioner structure, incorporating previous data and experience around regular chain connection types.

As with all CRAM projects, this piece of equipment was reviewed under stringent testing procedures prior to delivery and installation at PHD Engineering’s workshop. This performance assessment was comprehensive in determining the strength and durability of its application with a 200 per cent proof load, certified by a NATA-accredited testing authority.

CRAM’s involvement in this project highlights their expansive knowledge and expertise surrounding hydraulics, and their self-sufficient capacity to support design, manufacturing and assembly.

Tough stuff AFC chain units must be extremely hard-wearing and rigid to maintain peak performance under heavy dynamic and static loads. They must also possess frictional resistance and defence against corrosion in underground extraction settings.

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Keeping industry in Motion Industry leading products from our Strategic Suppliers SUPERDRAULIC® HI TEMP RANGE The SUPERDRAULIC HVI HI TEMP range of high viscosity index, high temperature anti wear hydraulic fluids is available in Viscosity Grades 46, 68 and 100.

It is formulated using the same chemistry as the Superdraulic range however is formulated with shear stable polymers making it suitable for use in applications where extra harsh conditions and heat are common.

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SHELL GADUS S2 V220 Shell Gadus S2 V220 greases are high quality multi-purpose, extreme‑pressure greases based on a blend of high viscosity index mineral oils and a lithium hydroxystreate soap thickener and contain extreme-pressure and other proven additives to enhance their performance in a wide range of applications. Shell Gadus S2 V220 greases are designed for multi‑purpose grease lubrication of rolling element and plain bearings as well as hinges and sliding surfaces such as those found in most industrial and transport sectors.

SCHAEFFLER T41 VIBRATING SCREEN BEARING

CRC 3.36 HEAVY DUTY PENETRANT

FALK T10 STEELFLEX GRID COUPLINGS

The bearing that’s designed for shaker screens, Schaeffler T41 Spherical Roller bearing extends bearing life with a special coating on the bore. The bearings operate 70% longer than ‘normal’ bearings in the same installation position.

CRC 3.36 Heavy Duty Penetrant is a multiple organic inhibitor in a paraffinic oil base that prevents rust and corrosion by displacing and sealing out moisture and by forming a continuous protective barrier against water and oxygen.

The Falk Steelflex T10 Grid Coupling is a double-flexing, close coupled, general purpose design suited for use in four‑bearing systems. Features a horizontally split cover which allows for grid replacement without movement to the connected equipment.

NTN SEALED SPHERICAL ROLLER BEARINGS

FANMASTER MPVIFD300 PORTABLE VENTILATOR

LOCTITE® PC 9599

NTN Sealed Spherical Roller Bearings seals integral with the bearing, and designed to accept misalignment, provides the most effective contaminant exclusion solution by supplementing existing housing sealing devices. Replaces conventional 222 series Spherical Roller bearings, comes pre‑lubricated, and can be mounted in standard SNG type plummer blocks.

The Fanmaster MPVIFD300 Portable Ventilator with 5m length of ducting comes in a 300mm diameter, and will exhaust or supply at a rate of up to 1083 L/S. It has a carry handle for ease of portability. It is robust and can handle the harsh Australian conditions. The 5m ducting can concertina for ease of storage.

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

LOCTITE® PC 9599 is a blue, 2-part, thixotropic, compound epoxy paste that works in less than half the time of conventional curing epoxies. It rebuilds, repairs and protects processing equipment from hard sliding abrasion. It is for rebuilding and protecting chutes, pumps, elbows, cyclones and other handling equipment under in dry service temperatures of -22 °F to +221 °F (-30 °C to +105 °C).

TIMKEN QUICK-FLEX® COUPLINGS

BONFIGLIOLI VF WORM GEARBOXES

TITAN RECOVERY PULLER WINCH Ideal for every recovery situation whether you are stuck in mud, in sand or in a slippery sand vertical surface. This allows you to operate the winch without the need for any other powered device when you are in off‑road isolated areas.

Timken Quick-Flex® elastomeric couplings are durable enough to face the challenges of harsh environments, yet need minimal maintenance. They are easy to install and require no lubrication. They operate without any metal-to-metal contact. Because the metal hubs don’t wear, the elastomeric insert is the only spare part you’ll need.

Wormgears of the VF series are milestones for the industry worldwide. They succeeded in combining uncompromising quality with state-of-the-art technology and renown price effectiveness. Absolute flexibility is given by the wide choice of several mounting options, shaft configurations and motor interface, all offered as standard. The helical-worm and the double‑worm version, with or without the torque limiter, also add up, creating a highly versatile drive system.

DEVCON® TITANIUM PUTTY

GATES PREDATOR® V-BELTS

Devcon® Titanium Putty is a high performance, titanium reinforced epoxy engineered for making critical repairs to machinery and precision parts. This technically advanced epoxy formulation of Titanium Putty makes this product the high performer of metal filled epoxies.

Gates Predator® V-belts are leading heavy-duty V-belts in the market.

They are excellent problem solvers that perform well in harsh environments and in extremely demanding applications where standard V-belts have performance issues. The Predator belt difference is in the construction: they have the highest power density of any V-belt and virtually zero stretch because of the use of high strength, high modulus aramid tensile cords.

MACKAY TWO-PIECE VIBRATION ISOLATORS These isolators find usage in a wide range of applications including pumps, compressors, generators, engines, radiators and electronic equipment. The design of the centre fixing two-piece vibration isolators gives the perfect elastomer element resistant to oils as well as the ability to reduce noise in all directions by absorbing vibrations.

TECO MAX E3 MINING MOTOR Built for the Mining and Quarrying market, the TECO MAX e3 Mining Motor is the ultimate machine, with the features and performance desired by the world’s top mining enterprises.

Mining Spec IP66 protects against the elements. High efficiency reduces running costs.

PULSARLUBE E SERIES SINGLE POINT GREASE LUBRICATORS The Pulsarlube E Series Grease Lubricators can be used in hazardous locations containing flammable liquids, vapours, gases and dust.

It also is a high‑grade electro‑chemical gas type single point lubricator that generates inert nitrogen (N2) gas.

3M® HIGH PERFORMANCE GREEN MASKING TAPE 401+ 3M™ High Performance Green Masking Tape 401+ to deliver super‑sharp paint lines where surface temperatures can reach up to 250 degrees F/ 121 degrees C. This green crepe paper tape is ideal for critical paint masking applications in automotive, specialty vehicle, and industrial markets, where strong holding and high temp performance is required.

MINES AND QUARRIES | EDITION 13

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Celebrating the Heroes of Australian Industrial Business

Motion Australia: Sowing the seeds of sustainability

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Robmac Harvesters are revolutionising macadamia farming in Alstonville

Designing pathways to the future

Humble recipe to household name

The importance of sustainable farming

Snapping into action during flood response

Food safe bearing solutions

Hunter Region serviced by Morgan Engineering for over 40 years

Read the inspiring story behind Australian pantry favourites

Shell offers environmentally acceptable lubricants

Mark Hodson from AIP is supplies hoses for dewatering effort

Aussie snack brands rely on NTN range

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