SA Mining July/August 2024

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How

Considering the challenges facing the industry with regard to greenfields exploration, along with the benefits that the country can accrue through this.

Understanding the critical role electro-mechanical engineers play in maintaining the electric motors that ensure a mine can keep critical operations constantly running.

Is it better for mining contractors to rent their heavy equipment, or to rather purchase it outright?

The Minerals Council SA looks back at the enormous changes and exciting developments that have occurred in the sector over the past three decades.

IEXPLOSIVE OPTIMISATION IS A BOOMING BUSINESS

Proper explosive optimisation improves safety, reduces costs and increases productivity through the downstream

value chain.

n today’s economy, it behooves mines to seek ways to improve productivity while at the same time reducing costs. One of the most e ective ways to achieve this, along with additional benefits including improved safety, is through the use of optimal blasting patterns and fragmentation, when utilising explosives.

The importance of proper blasting patterns and optimal fragmentation on a mine’s cost e iciencies and value maximisation should not be underestimated.

One of the key aspects of a successful mining operation is e ective drilling and blasting –something that continues to dominate mine production.

In order to maximise the value of the e ects and reduce the cost of production, the blasting itself requires optimally designed blast patterns to deliver improved rock fragmentation, as this positively impacts downstream processes.

at the end of the exploration tunnel for the mining sector.

While challenges still exist, there remains a strong focus on tapping into SA’s abundance of under-exploited and under-explored potential. A er all, as the JMC points out, the country retains its status as the largest producer of platinum, and one of the largest producers of coal, gold and diamonds.

Among the minerals that demand additional exploration are those related to the green revolution. Clearly, sustainability remains a key focus for mines moving forward, and one of the best ways to achieve this is through the increasing use of renewable energy to power the industry.

Of course, in order to reach this stage, a mine needs to have identified both a mineral and an area to mine – and with South Africa falling behind on greenfield exploration activities, this becomes increasingly less likely.

Fortunately, according to the Junior Mining Council (JMC), e orts by government, the Council for Geoscience, and others o er a light

EDITOR

Rodney Weidemann

Tel: 062 447 7803

Email: rodneyw@samining.co.za

ONLINE EDITOR

Stacey Visser

Email: vissers@businessmediamags.co.za

ART DIRECTOR

Shailendra Bhagwandin

Tel: 011 280 5946

Email: bhagwandinsh@arena.africa

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

Ilonka Moolman

Tel: 011 280 3120

Email: moolmani@samining.co.za

Tshepo Monyamane

Tel: 011 280 3110

Email: tshepom@samining.co.za

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Neesha Klaaste

Tel: 011 280 5063

Email: neeshak@sahomeowner.co.za

SUB-EDITOR

Andrea Bryce

In this issue, we look at how mines can demonstrate a commitment to following sustainable principles by focusing on reducing their use of fossil fuel-derived energy, by implementing renewable solutions instead. Heavy equipment is equally vital to mining operations, but by its very nature is a costly investment for any mining contractor. We look into the pros and cons of buying such equipment outright, versus choosing to simply rent such machines.

It has also been 30 years since the new South Africa came into being, and in an interview with the Minerals Council South Africa, we consider the many massive changes the local mining industry has undergone, the challenges that have been faced, and the improvements that can be made.

In addition, we take a look at the critical role electro-mechanical engineers play in maintaining the electric motors that ensure a mine can keep critical operations constantly running, as well as the importance of e ective lighting for crushing operations that run on a 24/7 basis, and what this means for safety, e iciency and productivity. We also preview the upcoming Electra Mining Africa exhibition, looking at guest speakers, topics and key areas of discussion.

In our cover story, meanwhile, we celebrate Women’s Month by profiling Pam du Plessis, MD of Invincible Valves. Du Plessis has spent decades proving that women can handle anything the industry throws at them, while avoiding the traditional “big boss” mentality, and instead relying on empathy and emotional intelligence.

BUSINESS MANAGER

Claire Morgan

Tel: 011 280 5783

Email: morganc@sahomeowner.co.za

GENERAL MANAGER MAGAZINES

Jocelyne Bayer

SWITCHBOARD

Tel: 011 280 3000

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Neesha Klaaste

Tel: 011 280 5063

Email: neeshak@sahomeowner.co.za

PRINTING

CTP Printers, Cape Town

PUBLISHER

Arena Holdings (Pty)

1746, Saxonwold, 2132

Rodney Weidemann

M PA N Y

AU TO EN G I N EER I N G

Motor Engineering (Deutz, Perkins, Detroit & all other engine types)

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Car, LDV, Truck, Bus & Heavy Duty Vehicle Service & Repairs

Heavy & Diesel Fuel Injections Services (Bosch Accredited)

Field Services (Mining & other Onsite Services)

Vehicle Fire Suppression Services

SENSOR-BASED SORTING TECHNOLOGY FOR NAMIBIAN MINE

Andrada Mining has purchased TOMRA XRT sorters as part of its expansion plans at the flagship Uis Mine in Namibia. The sorters feature TOMRA’s latest innovation – the groundbreaking OBTAIN™ software that leverages deep learning to bring singleparticle precision to high-throughput particle sorting.

The open-pit Uis tin mine, representing one of the largest tin reserves in Namibia, is undergoing an expansion, which includes introducing a pre-concentrating circuit of ore sorters, with the aim of increasing tin concentrate from 1 500tpa to 2 600tpa. It has purchased TOMRA COM Tertiary XRT sorters for the ore-sorting pre-concentration circuit in the dry process section of the plant, expecting to increase the tin content of the feed to the wet processing plant by 50%.

A COM Tertiary XRT 1200 will be dedicated to the coarse size fraction. For the small particle sizes, two COM Tertiary XRT Fines sorters are equipped with the high-resolution TS100C ejection module, which delivers high precision in high-capacity applications. The module uses 90% less compressed air to eject the particles, reducing energy consumption dramatically and consequently significantly cutting operating costs while delivering a high-quality product.

These XRT sorters feature TOMRA’s AI-powered OBTAIN™ software, which uses a Neuronal Network to identify the properties of each particle accurately and independently of the sorter’s capacity, achieving unparalleled precision and reliability in detection and ejection.

In addition to enhancing the sorters’ performance, taking capacity, quality and recovery to a new level, OBTAIN™ will provide Andrada Mining with a wealth of detailed and accurate data, which will help them optimise the process with betterinformed decision-making.

MAKING SOUTH SUDAN’S MINING SECTOR A KEY ENGINE FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH

While remaining underexplored, South Sudan is considered to hold significant commercial quantities of mineral resources. A nascent gold mining sector in the country offers established producers the opportunity to partner with the government on frontier prospects and leverage their expertise to spearhead mineral exploration, extraction and development activities.

Known gold deposits mainly occur in the central and eastern Equatoria region in South Sudan, which is home to numerous small-scale artisanal mining activities. In these states, gold is mined across the Kawokono area, with reported activity located near the areas of Nyangea, Lauro, Buno, Napotpot and Namurunyan, where gold is extracted by local miners.

Meanwhile, over 50 alluvial sites located near the Luri River – approximately 40km southwest of Juba – have reported gold discoveries, which have been estimated to contain a concentration as high as 4g/m3. Other important alluvial gold concentrations have been reported from the Kinyeti River, the city of Nimule and northeast Karpeto.

Last February, South Sudan’s Ministry of Mining and South Africa’s Department of Mineral Resources and Energy signed an MOU for collaboration in the mining sector, providing for increased cooperation in exploration, knowledge transfer and capacity building. As part of the signing ceremony, South Sudan’s Minister of Mining Martin Abucha called on international investors to participate in the country’s mining industry, inviting private sector players to engage with the ministry in exploring newfound opportunities.

Meanwhile, South Africa’s state-owned African Exploration Mining and Finance Corporation announced last June that it is actively seeking partnerships with South Sudanese mining companies. South Africa’s Council for Geoscience has also expressed interest in geothermal activities in East Africa, with a focus on South Sudan.

These types of collaboration have positioned the South Sudanese government in a space where it is able to explore its own mineral resources and productively develop the sector, potentially providing a significant boost to the nation’s economy.

WE CAN HANDLE THE PRESSURE. GUARANTEED.

ENGEN’S PARTNERSHIP WITH RBS BOOSTS LOCAL ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT

Engen recently handed over the keys to a new truck to Resegofetse Business Solutions (RBS) that will enhance the 100% black women-owned enterprise’s service capability along the Bafokeng mining belt. RBS, based in Phokeng in North West Province, supplies consumables, cleaning services, and lubricants to mines in the area. Handover of the four-tonne vehicle took place at the Engen Waterkloof Convenience Centre in Rustenburg, with Adnaan Emeran, head of Engen’s commercial and lubricants marketing, saying: “Engen’s support extends beyond mere procurement, o ering a holistic approach aimed at fostering sustainable growth for a company like RBS.”

This collaborative approach has resulted in remarkable growth for RBS, with a 400% increase in business since partnering with Engen, including an annualised average growth rate of 74% in lubricant volumes sold between 2020 and 2022.

UD

TRUCKS

HEIGHTENS ITS ULTIMATE WOMEN PROGRAMME

UD Trucks Southern Africa (UDTSA) has announced the expansion of its Ultimate Women Programme, in partnership with Commercial Transport Academy (CTA).

The programme was successfully launched in 2022, with its primary objective to drive gender transformation initiatives in the transport industry. UDTSA sponsored two new Kuzer lightmedium duty trucks. A er gaining extensive experience in the year-long programme, CTA was able to support all beneficiaries to secure employment as professional truck drivers, attesting to the continued commitment of UDTSA and CTA to cultivating meaningful change and transformation through empowerment of women in the transport industry.

“Our meaningful partnership with CTA has been nothing short of transformative, in our constant endeavour to empower women in our industry, and our dedication to making a better life for people, the planet, and the logistics sector. We wish the new candidates a fruitful journey in the coming months, and we are confident that they will go on to make a di erence for a brighter future,” says Filip Van den Heede, UD Trucks Southern Africa managing director.

DAIMLER

TRUCK

SOUTHERN AFRICA LAUNCHES ITS e ACTROS AND e CANTER RANGE

In line with Daimler Truck’s global ambition to o er 100% CO2-neutral trucks and buses by 2050, DTSA has introduced its first fully battery-electric truck range.

Launched at the event was the Mercedes-Benz eActros 300, comprising a 4x2 and 6x2 rigid, along with a truck tractor variant. Also launched was the eActros 400 6x2 rigid and eCanter range. This comprehensive range o ers zero emission during operation and focuses on light and heavy-duty distribution applications for now, until local vehicle weight and length legislation allows the introduction of long-haul application vehicles.

The eActros 300 has three lithium-Ion battery packs with a battery capacity of 336kWh2 and o ers a travel range of up to 330km. The eCanter has six HV battery packs with a battery capacity of 83kWh and a travel range of up to 100km.

VOLKSWAGEN GROUP AFRICA

WELCOMES NEW NONEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has appointed Yolanda Cuba as a non-executive director on their board of management.

across various industries, including the

Cuba, who joined the board e ective 1 June 2024, is vice-president for the Southern and East Africa regions for the MTN Group. She has over 20 years’ experience in various African markets and across various industries, including the telecommunications, manufacturing and investment sectors.

University of KwaZulu-Natal, and

A chartered accountant by profession, she holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in statistics from the University of Cape Town, a Bachelor of Commerce Honours degree in accounting from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, and a Master’s in Commerce degree from the University of University of Pretoria.

Engen’s Simon Prevett and Jimmy Human with Dimakatso Isaacs the CEO of Resegofetse Business Solutions, and Kagiso Mashiane and Thato Likhoele from Engen.

Yolanda Cuba.

Your mining operation is unique. By opting for Joy equipment, our team of experts and engineers will work closely with you to customise its design according to your specific needs and applications. We provide comprehensive support throughout the entire lifecycle of your machine through on-demand field service, remote monitoring and condition monitoring programs. We aim to help you transform and enhance efficiency and responsiveness to changes and challenges within the mining sector.

WOMEN IN MINING MIN NG

PIONEERING CHANGE TOGETHER

Talent, determination, and innovation.

This Women’s Day, we celebrate the women who are redefining the mining landscape.

PROTECTING THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF EMPLOYEES

For mines, staying on the right side of the legalities around the Mine Health and Safety Act requires a partner that truly understands this highly specialised area of law.

By Rodney Weidemann

The local mining industry is a significant employer, as a whole, with some 400 000 people working in this particular sector. Despite being a huge contributor to the nation’s overall GDP, it remains an industry marred by occupational health and safety issues.

This despite the fact that in recent years, mining has made significant strides in improving the health and safety of employees at mining sites.

It is with mining safety in mind that the Mine Health and Safety Act, 29 of 1996 (MHSA) was promulgated, notes Tyla Foster, Executive: Mine and Occupational Health and Safety (MOHS) at ENS.

“The MHSA aims to protect the health and safety of all persons at mines and does not merely apply to the health and safety of employees. Employers are obliged to protect, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of non-employees (such as visitors to a mine) and employees (which includes employees of independent contractors) performing work on or at a mine,” she says.

“This area of law is highly specialised in terms of the number of legal practitioners currently practising in the field of MOHS law. This is because it does not merely entail the application of the law, but also requires an in-depth understanding of all the technical

aspects applicable to mining – such as engineering, geology, rock engineering and seismology.”

There are a number of health and safety obligations that are imposed in terms of the MHSA, adds Foster, to ensure a working environment that is healthy and safe, as far as is reasonably practicable.

“This includes an organisational structure of trained, experienced and competent people, the implementation of a comprehensive risk management system, and the provision of formal and informal (onthe-job) training of employees.”

“It also ensures the provision of standards, procedures and rules, not to mention working place audits and/or site visits, and compliance to standards. Additionally, it focuses on the safe use of machinery, equipment and explosives, and the establishment of a system of medical surveillance, along with emergency preparedness and response.”

ENS is the only law firm in Africa with a dedicated MOHS team, she continues, saying the team currently comprises 15 practitioners, six of whom are women, with a combined experience of over 45 years in advising mining houses and multinationals on compliance with MOHS law.

“ENS’s key di erentiator is its ability and capacity to manage matters from start to

finish, with its MOHS practitioners appearing personally in informal investigations, formal inquiries, inquests and criminal prosecutions, as well as dealing with civil court proceedings and dispute resolution,” she says.

ENFORCEMENT MEASURES

According to Juanita Broom, Executive: Mine and Occupational Health and Safety at ENS, the Mine Health and Safety Inspectorate (MHSI) of the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (now reconfigured as the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, but has not formally been amended in terms of the MHSA), are the regulators that must enforce compliance with the MHSA, and the regulations binding thereunder.“If an Inspector of Mines (from the MHSI) has reason to believe that a provision of the MHSA (or the regulations binding thereunder) has not been complied with, the regulator has several options available to enforce compliance therewith, one of which is to issue a Notice in terms of Section 54 of the MHSA to halt mining operations in the a ected area of that mine” she says.

“Further options available to an Inspector of Mines to enforce compliance include to issue a Notice in terms of Section 55 of the MHSA or to recommend the imposition of an

Mine and Occupational Health and Safety (MOHS) law requires an in-depth understanding of all the technical aspects applicable to mining - such as engineering, geology, rock engineering and seismology “ “

administrative fine in terms of Section 55A of the MHSA. An administrative fine may be imposed by a Principal Inspector of Mines (from the MHSI) in terms of Section 55B of the MHSA, a er the Principal Inspector of Mines has considered the recommendation of the Inspector of Mines, as well as the written representations made by the employer.”

It is important for employers to prepare comprehensive representation for the Principal Inspector to consider the same before imposing an administrative fine. It is important to note that an administrative fine may only be issued if an employer has failed to comply with the provisions of the MHSA or the regulations binding thereunder.“As a legal practitioner in the field of Mine Health and Safety Law, it is critical to have a proper understanding of the full spectrum of activities associated with mining.”

“ENS ensures that the interests of the persons and/or entities whom we

represent are adequately protected in light of the extensive duties and responsibilities imposed by the provisions of the MHSA and the regulations binding thereunder, as well as the powers entrusted to the MHSI to enforce compliance with such provisions.”

To this end, she notes that staying within the ambit of the law means implementing and maintaining a working environment that is healthy and safe, as far as reasonably practicable. Employers must proactively adopt a holistic approach to health and safety, where a number of measures must form part of a comprehensive health and safety management system.

“In addition, employers are actively engaging in tripartite forums to, among others, remain abreast with any developments in the law and/or industry best practices; share learnings from accidents and/or incidents, which have occurred in the mining industry; and share information on technical advancements

Notable amendments to the MHSA and the regulations include:

■ The implementation of fatigue management system;

■ the selection and provision of personal protective equipment for women in the South African Mining Industry;

■ the Management of Medical Incapacity; and

■ the provision of proximity devices and anti-collision systems or devices to automatically retard or stop diesel-powered trackless mobile machines (TMMs), and to prevent collisions between TMMs and pedestrians or other TMMs.

available to the mining industry. The aforesaid measures assist employers in exercising the necessary due diligence to ensure health and safety at its mining operations.”

“This area of law is unique in that every matter is di erent. It’s complex and is highly specialised. ENS is not only expert in the field of MOHS law, but has also acquired extensive knowledge and understanding of every facet of mining. This enables us to e ectively protect the rights and interests of the persons and/or entities whom we represent. The exposure to the various mining operations spread throughout South Africa is an experience which is unparalleled,” concludes Broom.

EVOLVING MINING LAW

Juanita Broom.

Tyla Foster.

SHAKING UP A MALEDOMINATED INDUSTRY

As a business leader in the sector for more than a decade, Pam du Plessis of Invincible Valves has eliminated the “big boss” mentality, relying instead on empathy and emotional intelligence.

By Rodney Weidemann

The traditional view of the mining sector is one that suggests there is little room in it for women. But the industry has in fact been slowly transforming for years into a place where women can lead and thrive.

A good example of this is Pam du Plessis, managing director and CEO of Invincible Valves, a position she has held for more than a decade, following a management buyout of the organisation.

Having grown up on the East Rand, she began her career in the IT arena, working for Accpac, a er which she was headhunted by a hospital to serve as its financial controller thanks to her accounting background.

“I actually ended up at Invincible Valves purely by accident, having met one of the owners, who needed some reports written. I went to help them out temporarily, and essentially never le . Although I planned to go, they asked me to stay, and later made me a director of the company. Five years later, we undertook the management buyout and I became CEO,” she says.

A “SOFT TOUCH” APPROACH

Following the passing of her husband, she says the company became her whole world, helping to serve as something of a coping

mechanism. Furthermore, notes Du Plessis, as a woman, she brought a di erent touch to the business.

“While we are now seeing an increasing number of women in these positions, at the time I took over as MD, having a woman in charge did create something of a ‘shock and horror’ reaction from many of the men in the industry. My rather ‘so touch’ approach to business was certainly very new at the time.

I say that if boys can go into hairdressing, why can’t girls become mechanics, boilermakers and more? “ “

“Remember that – being a male-dominated industry – many of the businesses within the sector still adopted the ‘big boss’ mentality, where leaders rule by fear. On the other hand, I brought empathy and emotional intelligence to the table instead. It is my belief that we should work as a genuine team, discuss things and truly work together for the benefit of the business.”

This, she says, came as something of a shock and a rather big change to her employees, adding that now if you had to ask her team, they wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I tend to operate on an ‘open door’ policy, and anyone can come and talk to me about anything, at any time. To this day, I do not even lock Facebook on our internal computers, because I trust our people. I am well aware that life happens, so I give my people leeway to deal with personal issues during work time – as long as their work is up to date,” she says.

“Trust, of course, goes both ways. I can’t expect my team to trust me if I don’t trust them in this way. As long as accountability remains, this system works well and, I believe, makes for happier employees and a much more pleasant working environment.”

Du Plessis points out that even when it comes to retirement, Invincible has a plan for employees coming to the end of their careers. She says this begins at least two years beforehand, with the company starting to reduce their working hours, or the number of days per week they labour, so that they are able to ease into the idea of retiring.

ONGOING CHALLENGES

Asked about some of the biggest challenges she has faced since assuming the leadership of the business, Du Plessis says industrial action and the country’s ongoing power issues have been among the largest problems to deal with.

“Our particular industrial area is fairly small and has been heavily hit by load shedding. In recent months, we have taken a hammering in costs, as we have had to use generators under these circumstances, with the attendant exponential growth in running expenses.

“It is the same with strikes, as it is not only the metal industry, but we are also impacted by action in the transport or mining sectors. While there are ways to mitigate this – such as not having branding on vehicles to help protect employees, or using vehicles that don’t look like delivery trucks – industrial action across any one of multiple industries remains a major di iculty for us.”

Another challenge is the rise in imports of cheap parts from the Far East. She suggests that Invincible prides itself on the high-quality equipment the company imports, adding that these are always among the best available. “Nonetheless, in the majority of tenders, these cheap – and generally unreliable – imports undercut us,” says Du Plessis.

“Thus we have begun looking at other options, including exporting as a business. We now export into much of Africa, areas of Europe like Kazakhstan and Russia, as well as the US and Canada. We have a huge agency in Ghana, sta ed by locals who are trained up by our people. Similarly, we have o ices in Lesotho, Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, also sta ed by locals, thereby helping to upli local communities.”

A BRIGHT FUTURE

“Currently, we are in the midst of developing a new valve design, which should be released to the market within the next couple of years. We are also excited about the new factory we have developed nearby. I am a firm believer that any business will eventually stagnate if it doesn’t attempt new things – hence the investment in the new machine shop.”

She is also a big proponent of women empowerment, noting that she was proud to arrive at the factory one day to witness a forkli being serviced by a female mechanic. This was an awesome encapsulation of the principle that women can do anything men can do, she says, adding that it is particularly pleasing to see younger women coming into the field who are not scared to learn a trade.

“In the mining sector, there is a tendency

It is my belief that we should work as a genuine team, discuss things and truly work together for the benefit of the business. “ “

CHALLENGES THE SECTOR FACES

■ Power shortages and blackouts

■ Industrial action and strikes

■ Increasing imports of cheap, lowquality competitor parts

to view much of the industry as being a man’s world, but the reality is that anyone can do anything, if they put their mind to it. Obviously, there are still many young women who are scared of entering such male-dominated industries, but I say that if boys can go into hairdressing, why can’t girls become mechanics, boilermakers and more?

“My advice to young women is to be yourself, because everybody else is taken. Remember that if you can be true to yourself, you can achieve anything. Ask yourself: is this what I want to do, and am I prepared to put in the e ort required to achieve it? If the answer is yes, then the truth is that no matter your gender, you can do it, because your mind is ultimately the most powerful tool you have,” says Du Plessis.

CYBERCRIME THREAT TO MINING SAFETY HOW TO STAY PROTECTED

As mining, like other industries, becomes increasingly interconnected, it has become more crucial than ever to monitor and mitigate cybercrime vulnerabilities.

When most people think of cybercrime victims, they imagine an o ice setting with deskbound employees at computers.

However, the reality is that with our increasing dependence on interconnected technologies, no industry sector is immune to cyberattacks – including mining.

In fact, a 2022 survey by EY found that 71% of respondents in the mining sector had seen an increase in the number of disruptive attacks in the year leading up to the survey.

Leading mining companies in Southern Africa are actively implementing digital transformation projects, and the technology used is becoming more complicated. With connected technology used for production and extraction, the threats these companies face are in some ways even more serious than those in o ice-based industries because they impact health and safety.

By Carey van Vlaanderen CEO of ESET  Southern Africa

With automated machinery and processes such as self-driving hauling trucks and underground ventilation systems becoming more prevalent, it’s easy to see why a network shutdown could be extremely dangerous.

Cybercrime vulnerabilities must be e ectively monitored and mitigated, otherwise mining organisations and employees are le significantly exposed.

Here are five crucial strategies for the mining industry to safeguard itself against cyberthreats:

PEOPLE FIRST

With almost 88% of data breaches due to human error, regular employee training and cybersecurity awareness is a crucial element of any cybersecurity strategy.

Employees should be reminded on an ongoing basis of the risks that are out there and the impact these can have on them and the business. Humans are prone to mistakes, but these mistakes, ranging from failure to properly delete data from devices to clicking on links in phishing emails, are also preventable.

TOP TO BOTTOM

As cyberattacks grow in frequency and complexity, all aspects of the mining value chain are vulnerable. From basics such as implementing password managers and using multi-factor authentication to using cutting-edge security technology to withstand an attack on data and intellectual property, every aspect of the business deserves equal attention.

Even the smallest gateway can be used to gain access to sensitive data or intellectual property. Make sure every entry point is protected.

BUDGET STRATEGY

In any industry, the emphasis is on spending the minimum to maximise profits. This unfortunately sometimes means that companies take the risk of installing the minimum cyber protection they hope will be necessary – and that’s a dangerous position to take. Can your business really a ord to go o line for days because your simple anti-virus didn’t do the job? What about the health and safety risks should machinery or operations suddenly come to a halt?

When it comes to cybersecurity, business leaders in the mining industry need to reframe their approach to one of risk management and risk tolerance.

AS WITHIN, SO WITHOUT

Mining companies o en do comprehensive background checks to verify the credibility of suppliers and ensure compliance. The same should be done to secure against cybercrime.

Machinery provided or maintained by a third party, for example, may allow remote access for maintenance –and a novel attack path for criminals. Ensure that you’re not unintentionally le exposed by gaining a clear understanding of such policies and processes.

With connected technology used for production and extraction, the threats mines face are in some ways even more serious than those in o ice-based industries because they impact health and safety. “ “

DO YOUR HOMEWORK

The EY survey also found that 55% of mining and metals executives were worried about their ability to manage a threat. Mining companies need to be highly attuned to the constantly evolving threat landscape and adapt their defences accordingly.

If you’re unsure of your ability to stay ahead of new cybersecurity trends, use a trusted partner who does so. ESET, for example, relies on research and development centres worldwide to ensure protection against the latest developments and our enterprise solutions are backed by 30 years’ industry-leading experience. As one of the top 10 mining countries in the world, the mining industry is vital to South Africa’s economy and clearly requires the utmost protection from cyberattacks. Don’t wait until it’s too late – ensure your company is protected from every angle so that it can continue to be a part of this country’s proud mining legacy.

views expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect

WE CAN HANDLE THE PRESSURE. GUARANTEED.

FORGING A PATH FOR FEMALE LEADERSHIP IN MINING

Women in Mining SA recognises the need for gender equality in the industry, and aims to inspire, support, and develop the progression of women in the SA mining sector.

Women in Mining South Africa (WiMSA) stands as a beacon of empowerment and progress in the South African mining industry.

Established in 2010, this non-profit organisation has been tirelessly working to create an inclusive environment where women can thrive and lead in a traditionally male-dominated sector.

WiMSA’s mission is clear: to inspire, support, and develop the progression of women in the SA mining industry. Through a multifaceted approach, the organisation aims to increase female representation, foster professional growth, and advocate for gender equality across all levels of the mining sector.

By Raksha Naidoo Chairperson, Women in Mining South Africa

One of WiMSA’s key initiatives is the creation of networking opportunities. By organising events such as the First Thursday Club and Speed Networking Events, WiMSA provides platforms for women to connect, share experiences, and build valuable professional relationships. These connections o en lead to mentorship opportunities, career advancements, and a stronger sense of community within the industry.

In its commitment to nurturing the next generation of female mining professionals, WiMSA has developed a comprehensive Career Booklet. This online resource showcases the diverse career options available in mining, encouraging young women to consider this dynamic field. By distributing this booklet to schools and at career days, WiMSA is planting the seeds for a more diverse and inclusive future in mining.

WiMSA’s impact extends beyond networking and career guidance. The organisation is actively involved in addressing industry-wide challenges. As part of the Women in Mining Task Team (WiMTT), in collaboration with the Minerals Council South Africa, WiMSA works to improve basic facilities for women in mining operations, including adequate ablution facilities, personal protective equipment, and physical work requirements.

INAUGURAL SYMPOSIUM

Looking ahead, WiMSA is set to host its inaugural Symposium this year, on 20 and 21 August, at the Randpark Golf Club in Johannesburg. This event, themed Forge Forward: Empowering Women to Lead the Mining Industry, promises to be a transformative experience that will reshape the landscape of the mining sector.

The Symposium is not just another conference; it’s a catalyst for change, designed to ignite passion, foster connections, and equip attendees with the tools they need to thrive in the mining industry. It o ers a unique platform for addressing critical issues that resonate deeply with women’s experiences in mining, such as overcoming impostor syndrome, tackling gender-based violence, navigating career growth, and fostering leadership skills.

Recognising the importance of inclusivity, WiMSA has made a concerted e ort to keep the event a ordable, ensuring that more women can access these valuable resources and connections. This inaugural Symposium represents a significant step in WiMSA’s ongoing

e orts to empower women and shape the future of mining, creating a more diverse, equitable, and innovative industry for all.

Another innovative initiative is the WiM-Chapter Toolkit. This online manual provides information, guidelines, and support for women who want to start their own Women in Mining chapters, further expanding the reach and impact of WiMSA’s mission.

The organisation’s e orts have not gone unnoticed. It proudly celebrates its members who have been recognised on the Women in Mining UK’s 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining list. These accolades highlight the calibre of talent within WiMSA, and serve as inspiration for aspiring female mining professionals.

To continue its vital work, WiMSA relies on the support of sponsors and partners. The organisation o ers various sponsorship opportunities, from hosting events to funding specific projects or activities. This support is crucial in enabling WiMSA to expand its reach and impact.

MENTORSHIP INITIATIVES

WiMSA’s mentoring programme has been a resounding success, providing valuable support and guidance to women in the mining industry. The peer-to-peer mentoring initiative brings together women from diverse mining professions, fostering connections and facilitating knowledge sharing across the sector. This programme has been instrumental in broadening WiMSA’s reach, connecting women from various locations across South Africa through its online platform.

Building on this success, WiMSA is now evolving its approach to create even more inclusive mentoring opportunities. As the organisation looks to the future, it is shi ing its focus towards a series of mentoring-focused workshops. This strategic move aims to make these valuable experiences accessible to a wider audience of women in mining, extending beyond the limitations of a traditional mentoring programme.

Expanding its mentorship initiatives to reach a wider demographic, WiMSA is making substantial progress in fostering female empowerment within the mining industry, paving the way for a more diverse and vibrant sector.

WiMSA’s journey has been one of determination, progress, and hope. By advocating for women’s rights, providing networking and educational opportunities, and fostering a supportive community, WiMSA is not just changing the face of mining in SA – it’s reshaping its future. For women in the mining industry, for those considering a mining career, and for companies looking to diversify their workforce, WiMSA o ers a platform for growth, support, and transformation.

As the mining industry evolves, so too does the role of women in it. With WiMSA leading the charge, the future of women in SA mining looks brighter than ever. For those inspired by this mission, whether as potential members, sponsors, or supporters, the organisation also extends an invite to join it in forging a more inclusive and dynamic mining industry for all.

views expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect SA Mining’s editorial policy.

ACCELERATING WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP IN AFRICA’S CLEAN ENERGY SECTOR

While gains have been made in recent years, it is imperative we continue to advance and retain women within Africa’s cutting-edge renewables companies.

Climate change is a growing threat, and it is poised to a ect Africa – and specifically African women – the hardest.

From extreme weather events to diminishing water resources and agricultural disruptions, the impacts of climate change on the continent are far-reaching and severe. Despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, African countries bear a disproportionate burden of the consequences. Furthering the inequality, African women experience the greatest repercussions of climate change due to the unequal burden of food production, water collection and other responsibilities.

Given this disparity, the importance of prioritising women in Africa’s green energy transition cannot be overstated. While they bear the brunt of energy poverty, African women simultaneously play crucial roles in sustainable development. Women’s active involvement in the green energy transition is critical for its success and sustainability.

By Makena Ireri Director of Demand Jobs and Livelihoods

and Ciara Remerscheid Director of Shortlist Futures at the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP)

Research published in Energy Research & Social Science emphasises that women’s participation in decision-making processes and leadership roles in the energy sector lead to more inclusive solutions. Gender-inclusive approaches lead to more e ective products by ensuring that the unique needs and priorities of women are adequately addressed.

Despite this, women remain severely under-represented across levels of management in Africa’s clean energy sector. International Finance Corporation research shows that women hold only a quarter of leadership and manager roles at renewable energy companies in Sub-Saharan Africa. Not only are women missing out on the responsibilities, salaries and fulfillment of management positions, but this disparity hurts the sector as well.

If more women were empowered to lead in the renewable energy industry, companies could harness their diverse perspectives and innovative ideas to drive a faster transition towards clean and sustainable energy systems improving energy access and climate goals. All this while improving the company’s bottom line.

So what barriers do women face in accessing and advancing in clean energy careers? A report by Shortlist and the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) found that social norms and cultural biases, both within companies and in wider communities and families, played a critical role in shaping the

structural barriers observed in hiring, advancement and workplace dynamics.

For example, clean energy companies struggle with hiring and retaining women in field-based sales and technician roles due to perceptions about safety and physical labour. While relocation can provide professionals valued opportunities for growth, it is o en experienced as disruptive for women who are married or have children because it can pull them away from social networks that provide help with childcare and domestic support. There are many actions that companies can take to improve gender equity both in hiring and retention. Overtly encouraging women to apply for jobs advertised remains one of the lowest-cost and easiest ways for companies to attract women to roles. For example, in our programmes, we’ve seen that simply including language like “Women are encouraged to apply” can increase female application rates.

Throughout the hiring process, companies should ensure they have female representation in terms of interviewers, so that women can see themselves at the company, and use unbiased, skills-based assessment to evaluate applicants.

It is critical to not just pay attention to the pipeline of women entering the field, but also the factors leading to retention and advancement. Research shows that to support women employees, companies will need to continue improving workplace features. These include structured training, mentorship and coaching programmes, transparent pathways to promotion, flexible maternity leave policies, and access to female role models.

A recent gender pay equity analysis of clean energy professionals in Sub-Saharan Africa finds that third-party training and placement programmes also play a crucial role in boosting compensation parity between male and female employees, further demonstrating the need for structured support. Several African clean energy companies, including Husk Power, Nuru, Sistema.bio and Sun King, have already made great strides in improving gender equity in their workforces.

The green energy transition presents a unique opportunity to advance gender equality and sustainable development in Africa. By promoting women’s leadership in clean energy companies, projects and decision-making processes, Africa can unlock their full potential as agents of change and accelerate progress towards a more inclusive and resilient energy future. It’s time to harness the power of women to drive the continent’s clean energy revolution forward.

The views expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect SA Mining’s editorial policy.

INLINE PUMPS

FOR SPACE-SAVING APPLICATIONS

A new range of KSB inline pumps have been engineered to excel in air conditioning, heating systems, water supply, heat recovery, industrial re-circulation and cleaning circuits.

Pump manufacturer KSB Pumps and Valves has introduced the latest ETAline range of inline pumps, including the advanced ETAline Pro – for diverse applications such as HVAC, industrial re-circulation and heating systems.

The single stage volute casing pump requires a smaller footprint, while maintaining high outputs as required, particularly in tight industrial applications where space is at a premium. The standard range of dry installed ETAline pumps range in outputs from 1 400 litres per minute (l/min), to 3 000 l/min, making them suitable for a wide range of applications in tight quarters, where performance and reliability are key.

According to KSB’s market area manager Dylan Mitchell, ETAline pumps are engineered to excel in air conditioning, heating systems, water supply, heat recovery, industrial re-circulation and cleaning circuits.

“Key features include a space-saving inline design, allowing for vertical or horizontal installation, making these ideal for environments with limited space such as roofs or attics. Unlike traditional longcoupled pumps, ETAline pumps eliminate unnecessary space requirements, while maintaining exceptional performance,” he says.

Despite their compact design, ETAline pumps boast impressive e iciency, he adds, delivering reliable performance without the need for balancing valves. This e iciency is further enhanced by the integration of a variable speed drive (VSD) in the ETAline Pro model, which delivers unmatched control and energy savings.

“ “

Intelligent features enable users to have greater control over their pumping systems, simplifying operation and maintenance processes from remote locations if required.

“Our ETAline pumps represent the pinnacle of fluid management technology. With an innovative design and advanced features, these pumps o er unparalleled performance, flexibility and e iciency, for a range of applications in industrial pumping solutions.”

In addition to the advanced design of the standard ETAline pumps, the ETAline Pro pump incorporates advanced intelligence features, including a VSD with remote capabilities and a user-friendly flow manager app. These features enable users to have greater control over their pumping systems, simplifying operation and maintenance processes from remote locations if required, notes Mitchell.

“Intelligent settings allow the pumps to adapt to the existing conditions, delivering optimal performance, regardless of demand and flow rates, enabling vastly enhanced e iciencies as a result.

“These pumps are designed for e iciency and longevity from the bottom up, and are notable in that they contribute to sustainable manufacturing practices. This is achieved by reducing material usage and weight, aligning with global e orts to minimise environmental impacts. The carbon-neutral production process for these pumps thus reflects KSB’s commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility,” he says.

ETAline Pro space saving.

Mining operators are seeing an increased demand for minerals and ores. Operators must now consider the costs of pump maintenance and replacement as well as the cost-benefit of utilizing fewer larger pumps versus several smaller pumps to perform the same work.

The KSB GIW® MDX pump line delivers proven results in the harshest hard rock mining applications.

BRINGING INSPIRATION AND INNOVATION TOGETHER

AT ELECTRA MINING

The Electra Mining Africa exhibition of 2024 offers visitors dozens of interesting presentations, hundreds of live demonstrations of machinery and equipment, and thousands of new products and innovations.

Technology innovation is progressing so rapidly today that it is not always easy for businesses to stay on top of the latest developments, especially in industries like mining. This is why Electra Mining Africa 2024 is such a crucial event, as it o ers not only displays of the latest cutting-edge technologies, but brings together industry trailblazers across the mining, electrical, automation, manufacturing, power and energy sectors.

The largest trade show of its kind in Southern Africa, with over five decades of experience, Electra Mining Africa is set to take place from 2 to 6 September at the Expo Centre in Nasrec, Johannesburg. The event will host more than 850 exhibitors, and includes international contingents from, among others, the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Taiwan, India, and China.

According to Charlene Hefer, portfolio director at Specialised Exhibitions, there are several core topics that will be of interest to delegates. On the Monday, she notes, the topic covered will be Sustainability and Innovation.

Among the key speakers for day one will be Brandon Horn, head of Commercial, SolarAfrica; Terry Galvin, VP Recycling Services at Kal Tire’s Mining Tire Group; Irene von Knoblauch-Dreyer, managing director of Flexilube; and Brett Nash, technical director at NovaSolis.

“Presentations here will include one on creating a sustainable future for businesses with solar, battery and wheeling, a discussion around why SA is ready for a thermal

conversion mining tire recycling facility, and a look at how responsible mining practices are necessary to meet growing demands for critical minerals and to support the future needs of the energy transition,” she says.

“With regard to skills development and training, which is Tuesday’s focus, future trends in engineering training – both locally and across Africa – will be outlined, along with the importance of continuous professional development.”

Tuesday’s guest speakers include Dr Sean Douglas Jones, CEO of the Artisan Training Institute; Ramaesela Cillia Molomo-Mphephu, a director at the Centre of Engineering Excellence; Adi Stephan, chief learning and innovation o icer at The Boiler Room. Finally, Anene Britz, of IR Olav Globetrotters, will consider opportunities in the Dutch job market for South African specialists.

Mining and occupational health and safety are the focus on Wednesday, adds Hefer, with presentations covering areas including the challenges in implementing explosives tracking and tracing solutions, the interconnected concepts of safety culture and safety climate, and a focus on advanced positioning technology and digital document compliance management for health and safety.

Key speakers on this day will include Johann Kruger, Simpology Group CEO; Chris Coetzee, director and owner of OHSS Consulting; Steven Je ery, Strategic business development manager, Saryx Engineering

REASONS TO VISIT:

■ Connect with over 650 exhibitors.

■ Meet with leading industry experts.

■ See thousands of innovative products.

■ Attend conferences and workshops.

■ Join free-to-attend seminars.

Group; Katri Mulder, an audiologist at H.A.S.S. Group; and Michael Illsbroux, CEO and co-founder of Epic Blue.

“Thursday is innovation day, covering all that’s new in machinery, products and technology, including integrating autonomous tire inspections and AI to improve safety, uptime and inspection compliance, Industry 4.0 industrial internet of things (IIOT) smart digitisation solutions for the mining Industry, the future of electric motors, and the power of intelligent solutions in transforming mining operations.

“On this day, we will have speakers like Christian Erdelyi, manager: Mining Technology Solutions for Kal Tire Mining Tire Group; Matt Saunders, application

Electra Mining Africa 2024 is a crucial event, as it o ers not only displays of the latest cuttingedge technologies, but brings together industry trailblazers across the mining, electrical, automation, manufacturing, power and energy sectors.

“

development specialist at CSL Silicones Inc; Rob Penney, programme manager at Synertech; and Bernard Mitton, who serves as a business development consultant for WEG Africa.”

Finally, adds Hefer, Friday will be South Africa day, with a focus on local manufacturing, such as on-site machining industry applications and how these help to reduce downtime, a presentation from the South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering, and a look at the challenges the

manufacturing industry faces, and how to overcome these.

“Special guests on the final day include Nkosana Ncaba, managing director at Total Onsite Machining Solutions; Uncel Mhelembe, chief executive o icer at SAIMechE; and Eric Bruggeman, chairman of the South African Capital Equipment Export Council.

“With so many interesting presentations, hundreds of live demonstrations that bring machinery and equipment to life, and thousands of new products and innovations displayed throughout the five exhibition halls and extensive outside exhibit areas, Electra Mining 2024 is undoubtedly where inspiration and innovation meet,” she says.

Focusing on innovation at every stage of a tyre’s life, we’ve developed proven solutions that support customers on their sustainability journey. Promoting a circular economy, our thermal conversion mining tyre recycling solution helps mines solve the challenge of scrap tyres.

LEADING CONTAINMENT LINERS

Geomembrane and corrosion protective liners are the optimal choice for various containment applications. They o er excellent impermeability and allow for exceptional durability, high chemical and UV resistance, and superior weldability, while remaining flexible enough to allow for ease of installation, without compromising their integrity.

As a manufacturer of thermoplastic liners, AKS Lining Systems is a competitive global producer, exporting its products to more than 30 countries worldwide. They are used in diverse applications, including mining, environmental conservation, water treatment and general infrastructure.

With a plant situated in Cape Town, AKS Lining Systems is well positioned to o er strong support to the local South African and Southern African Development Community regions.

CONTAINMENT AND CORROSIONRESISTANT SOLUTIONS

According to Peter Hardie, technical and international sales manager at AKS Lining Systems, the company’s geomembrane range of products, Geoliner™, are manufactured from HDPE or LLDPE resins which are considered chemically inert.

“Designed specifically for use in chemically aggressive environments, Geoliner™ is manufactured using the ‘flatdie’ process and is supplied in 7m-wide rolls, in lengths of up to 220m per roll, with various surface finishes, such as smooth, textured or mega textured,” he says.

Lining solutions designed specifi cally for use in chemically aggressive environments are used extensively in infrastructure containment projects.

“These finishes can be supplied in combinations that are either single- or double-sided. Our state-of-the-art laboratory ensures that all liners produced meet or exceed international standards such as GRI-GM13, GRI-GM17 and the local standard SANS1526.”

concrete structures, by being cast into the concrete. The mechanical bond into the concrete means the product can be used in a vast range of applications, from mining to sewerage treatment and large outfall sewers. Due to the extremely high wear resistance and abrasion resistance, the AKS™ internal lining in sewer systems is ideally suited for trenchless installation of large diameter pipes.”

The company is ISO 9001:2015-certified, which ensures that management system and quality procedures are maintained and reviewed at the highest possible levels. These systems and procedures follow through right from resin suppliers, shipping and logistics, to finished product, testing and delivery.

QUALITY AND TRACEABILITY

Hardie notes that Geoliner™ is used in the construction of environmentally critical facilities like landfill sites, tailings facilities, and ash storage facilities. They are critical components in ensuring that contaminated e luent does not seep into the ground water. When it comes to the crucial matter of conservation of water, Geoliner™ is the highperformance barrier of choice.

In addition to the Geoliner™ range, AKS Lining Systems o ers its flagship product, AKS™ Corrosion Protection Liner. AKS™ (Anchor Knob Sheet) is a liner extruded with a matrix of anchors, he says.

“It is used extensively in acid proofing

For identification, tracking and traceability purposes, Hardie points out that all AKS™ and Geoliner™ rolls are individually labelled and numbered. The in-house manufacturing qualitycontrol system thereby ensures traceability of each roll and its components, right through from incoming resin to in-line production testing, QC testing and final MQC certification.

“With a wealth of experience and knowledge, our sales engineers can deliver technical assistance and custom solutions for clients’ projects. Further, our competent logistical team ensures expert handling and loading of trucks and containers, along with paperwork and all other commercial requirements.

“At AKS, we also o er an open-door policy, inviting customers to inspect and review their product during manufacturing and testing. This in turn assures their peace of mind when materials start arriving on their sites,” he says.

Peter Hardie, international technical sales manager.

NEW JCB 3CX BACKHOE LOADERS RANGE PACKED WITH FEATURES

New to the local market, Bell Equipment’s range of updated JCB 3CX backhoe loaders improves safety, effi ciency and productivity.

Bell Equipment’s range of updated JCB 3CX backhoe loaders recently arrived on South African shores, promising to build on the brand’s popularity with new features designed to provide improved comfort, versatility, and productivity, while reducing costs and increasing e iciency.

According to Bell Equipment sales product manager for JCB products, Massyn Jansen van Vuuren, the new model range will replace the existing JCB 3CX Eco, 3DX and 3CX Global product lineup.

“The new cab makeover is the most noticeable change, with the striking new design using high-quality moulded plastics, while the pillars and roof are light grey in colour, to give a lighter and more spacious feel,” he says.

“Most importantly, the new cab places a huge focus on operator safety, comfort, and ease of operation. For example, the loader lever has been simplified to operate like a wheel loader. In addition, there is a proportional switch on the side of the lever to operate the six-in-one bucket, which further reduces the e ort needed to operate the machine.”

He says the new EasyShi transmission, with kick-down, is standard across the range and simplifies gear changing. The kick-down switch is located on the floor, and allows the operator to drop from second to first gear when extra push power is needed for loading or site stripping.

“All cabs are certified for roll-over protection systems (ROPS) and fallingobject protective structures (FOPS), and

the seat rotation area is larger to give the operator more room. This, together with improved cab sealing to keep out water and dust, creates a cleaner and more pleasant workspace. There is also improved visibility to the working area behind the machine.”

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Under the bonnet, he notes, the JCB 3CX range benefits from improved e iciency in the hydraulics, thanks to new variable displacement piston pumps that are

standard across all models. The larger pump provides 150lpm, a 39% increase over the previous model.

“This allows the engine speed to be reduced while maintaining productivity, e ectively reducing fuel consumption. Furthermore, the variable flow pump only provides flow on demand and backs o the flow when not required, in order to reduce load on the engine and improve fuel consumption.

“The six-in-one shovel can be used for dozing, loading, digging, grabbing, spreading, and grading, while the optional flip-over forks are ideal for machines that will double up as a forkli for pick-and-place activities around the work site, and to unload vehicles,” he says.

Lighting has also been improved, with six LED work lights instead of halogen lights. Two adjustable LEDs are fitted on the front and four on the rear, of which two can be adjusted. Meanwhile, a battery isolator key has been installed, which allows the operator to isolate the machine’s electrics while carrying out machine maintenance.

“All in all, the new 3CX range has a machine to suit all customer requirements, and we expect these new machines to add real value and strengthen JCB’s position as the world’s leading brand of backhoe loaders. We have a fleet of units that will be used across the country to familiarise customers with the new range and the improvements, meaning that all it takes for customers to experience the machines for themselves is for them to contact their nearest Bell dealer.”

JCB 3CX backhoe loaders.

We go beyond ordinary for you

Bell 4x4 Articulated Dump Trucks: reduce tyre scu ng, improve manoeuvrability, and save costs without a ecting productivity.

Bell Water Tankers: feature intelligent cab controls and a variety of options, all fully supported by Bell Equipment, no additional 3rd party support required.

Bell Coal Bins: say goodbye to multiple trips and hello to increased productivity with our low-density coal bins for increased load volume.

LEVERAGING RENEWABLE ENERGY

TO DRIVE SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability is a key focus for mines moving forward, and one of the best ways to achieve this is through the increasing use of renewable energy to power the industry.

By Rodney Weidemann

In the mining sector, although the principles of sustainability di er from those related to energy management, there is an underlying commonality that ties these two subjects together.

Today, the drive for true sustainability is vital, hence the focus on environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors. Those organisations that can best demonstrate to stakeholders how they follow sustainable principles will, a er all, be the ones to obtain the best access to both markets and capital.

According to Wickus Botha, energy and natural resources leader for Africa at EY, one of the best ways to demonstrate a commitment to following sustainable principles is to focus on reducing a mine’s use of fossil fuel-derived energy, and instead implement renewable solutions.

“For those mines that use renewable independent power generation facilities, it is not only about the source of the energy, but also the amount consumed, as this speaks directly to the project’s emissions and carbon footprint,” he says.

“An additional aspect to this is the reliable and predictable supply of power such a facility provides to a mine, enabling it to ensure optimal energy provision for its business activities. So, beyond the need to properly manage emissions and the project’s carbon footprint, such an approach also

means the mine is in a position to ensure the business is resilient, stable and capable of operating e iciently.”

MORE

EFFECTIVE STRATEGIC DECISIONS

Furthermore, he adds, such an approach also speaks to capital allocation – taking money invested in the mine and using it for the purposes of private power generation helps to demonstrate an organisation’s commitment to sustainability.

“Government initiatives to allow this level of private generation have been enormously beneficial to heavy industries, especially mines, as it has a orded them the opportunity to make their own strategic decisions around the key issues of emissions, sustainability and allocation of capital. Moreover, this positions mines to intently focus their e orts on reducing their contributions to global fossil fuel emissions.”

This approach is not cheap, however, notes Botha. He points out how even a private house will likely have to expend several hundred thousand rand to go completely o -grid.

“On the other hand, using renewable energy to reduce a home’s dependence on the grid is something that can be achieved at only a small percentage of this cost. The same goes for mines – it is far less pricey to leverage something like a solar plant to

SUSTAINABILITY IS PIVOTAL

According to the PwC Mine 2024 report, sustainability considerations have been a pivotal element in transaction decisions. In their quest to decarbonise, mining companies are investing in renewable energy projects. Such projects bolster their sustainability profiles and help them gain greater control over one of their most significant operational costs.

With operations in remote areas, companies o en face the prospect of interruption in power supplies even as they strive to decarbonise – hence the increased investments in renewable energy, aimed at increasing their power reliability.

For example, Anglo American entered into a partnership in 2022 with EDF Renewables, to develop a regional renewable energy ecosystem in South Africa, in order to help overcome the challenge of electricity shortages.

Envusa Energy, the jointly owned company they formed, plans to develop at least 500 megawatts of solar and wind capacity. Ultimately, the project is expected to generate 3GW to 5GW of clean energy by 2030, boosting the resilience of South Africa’s electricity network.

reduce dependency than it is to go o -grid completely.

“In the end, mines need to e ectively determine a baseline of their power needs, which will mean they can more easily determine what areas of power consumption can be taken o the grid,” he says.

Mines need to e ectively determine a baseline of their power needs, which will mean they can more easily determine what areas of power consumption can be taken o the grid. – Botha “ “

TRANSMISSION CHALLENGES

It is also worth noting, continues Botha, that the biggest challenge government has faced since enabling this legislation has not been around the type of power being generated –for example solar or wind – so much as it has been about the transmission thereof.

“Remember that in order to generate and consume this energy, it still requires the Eskom grid for transmission purposes. The challenge here lies in the fact that the most appropriate areas for solar or wind power plants tend to be far from the mines that wish to consume this energy.

“Thus, it needs to be wheeled across the grid, which creates challenges both in terms of the actual transmission of this power over distance on what is technically an old grid, and also with regard to the model around how to charge for this additional use of the grid.

“Ultimately, the key focus for mines –from an energy point of view – is that they

need stable and reliable power that is delivered e ectively and predictably. Thus, if they seek to use solar as the power source, they would need to supplement this with batteries or maybe wind turbines, in order to ensure security of energy consumption.”

The key considerations then, he says, are for mines to find the right energy mix to deliver this level of stability and security, as this will allow for more e ective operational planning.

“The critical thing for mines to remember is that despite the potential challenges around grid infrastructure, there are ways to reduce costs and drive up their sustainability credentials by introducing renewable energy a little at a time to the mine.

“Something as simple as installing solar panels can help alleviate some of the energy pressure and reduce costs, simply by using these to provide fallback power, instead of using the much more costly diesel generators that are generally used today.

TOP 10 BUSINESS RISKS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR MINES

■ An EY report around risks and opportunities for mines indicates that mining companies are also investing in adjacent businesses, particularly those that support or derisk other investments –including infrastructure, energy and technology.

■ It suggests that horizontal integration allows miners to increase scale and investment, by decreasing risk in a non-familiar geography or commodity, driving a value model change to gain competitive advantage.

■ Sustainability is also a big driver of innovation. Beyond renewable energy, these companies are starting to invest in startups – including in energy storage, batteries and hydrogen.

“Once they have a foundation of renewable energy sources, it also becomes much easier to continue improving their renewable energy mix, thus increasing their overall sustainability,” says Botha.

Many crushing operations run on a 24/7 basis, meaning that for the sake of safety, effi ciency and productivity, effective lighting is vital.

By Rodney Weidemann

MAKING LIGHT OF CONTINUOUS CRUSHING OPERATIONS

Crushing and screening operations frequently run on a 24/7 basis, to meet demand and optimise productivity, which is why e ective lighting is such a crucial aspect of these operations.

When it comes to continuous crushing operations, safety, e iciency and productivity are paramount factors, so ensuring sites and machinery are always well lit is vital during night-time work.

According to Francois Marais, sales and marketing director at Pilot Crushtec, adequate illumination allows workers to see clearly, immediately reducing the risk of accidents and improving their ability to operate machinery accurately.

“It also enhances the visibility of hazards, ensuring that workers can identify and avoid potential dangers. Well-lit work areas also contribute to better morale and reduced

fatigue, as workers can perform their tasks more comfortably and confidently,” he says.

The importance of such lighting should not be underestimated, he adds, pointing out that insu icient lighting can lead to numerous challenges and problems in crushing and screening operations.

“Poor lighting can cause workers to misjudge distances, miss hazards, or make errors in operating machinery – leading to accidents and injuries. Workers may work more slowly and less accurately in poorly lit conditions, leading to decreased productivity.

“Poor visibility can further result in equipment damage, due to mishandling, leading to an increase in maintenance and repair costs. Naturally, straining to see in low light conditions can also lead to eye strain and fatigue, further impacting worker performance and safety.”

ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND PORTABILITY

Marais notes that recent advancements in lighting technology have significantly improved conditions for crushing and screening operations. He indicates that the shi to light emitting diodes (LEDs) has been beneficial, as these lights provide bright, consistent light and have a much longer lifespan when compared to traditional bulbs.

“They are also more energy-e icient, reducing operational costs. Smart lighting systems can be programmed to adjust lighting levels, based on the time of day or specific needs, ensuring optimal illumination at all times.

“Portable lighting solutions – such as tower lights – allow for flexible and temporary lighting setups, which are particularly useful in remote or changing work areas.

“Modern lighting solutions are designed

to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including dust, moisture, and vibrations common in mining operations. The particular advantages of these new technologies include better energy e iciency, reduced maintenance needs, improved safety and enhanced productivity,” he says.

It is not only about the light quality, continues Marais. The height of light masts is critical in ensuring that the illumination covers the required area e ectively. Properly positioned lights reduce shadows and provide even lighting across the entire work site.

“If the mast is too low, the lights may not cover enough area, leaving dark spots. If the mast is too high, the intensity may be insu icient. The correct height ensures that all areas are adequately lit, facilitating safer and more e icient operations.

“E ective lighting is a key component of

the zero-harm principle too. It helps prevent accidents and injuries by enhancing visibility where workers can see potential hazards and avoid them, reducing the likelihood of incidents. Adequate lighting enables workers to perform tasks safely and correctly, following standard operating procedures,” he says.

In case of an emergency, well-lit areas allow for faster and more e ective response and evacuation. By minimising the risk of accidents and ensuring a safer work environment, good lighting directly supports the zero harm objective.

We asked what the key factors are that crushing entities should consider when choosing lighting equipment. “Lights that can withstand harsh conditions and have a long operational lifespan reduce the need for frequent replacements and maintenance, while energy-e icient lights can significantly

E ective lighting is a key component of the zero-harm principle too, as it helps prevent accidents and injuries by enhancing visibility on-site. “ “

LIGHTING AND SAFETY

While it is vital to have su icient lighting for the stationery crushing and screening equipment on a site, this is not the only purpose behind the implementation of such solutions – there are typically also several pieces of yellow metal equipment, such as excavators, trucks and loaders, moving around on the site

Good lighting is therefore a critical element of the industry’s quest for zero harm.

For this reason, the range of lighting solutions are designed to cover everything from entry level, right up to premium applications. On the smaller end, a unit with four 320 LED floodlights will achieve a lighting area up to 5 000m2; at the other end of the scale, a mining unit with six 320 WLED floodlights will light up 7 800m2.

Francois Marais.

reduce operational costs,” he says. “Lastly, portable lighting solutions can be easily moved and adjusted as needed, providing versatility in dynamic work environments.”

HOW OPTIMAL BLASTING PATTERNS BOOST MINE PRODUCTIVITY

The importance of proper blasting patterns and optimal fragmentation on a mine’s cost effi ciencies and value maximisation should not be underestimated.

By Rodney Weidemann

One of the key aspects of a successful mining operation is e ective drilling and blasting – something that continues to dominate mine production. In order to solve this challenge and reduce the cost of production, the blasting itself needs to seek improved optimal fragmentation from a properly designed blasting pattern.

According to Simon Tose, global manager: mining optimisation at AECI Explosives, the primary objective of blasting through good design is to minimise the overall cost, and maximise the value of the e ects.

“This is achieved by converting the in-situ rock mass into a muck pile of appropriate shape, looseness and fragment size distribution for downstream processes,” he says.

“These include loading, hauling – in the case of the waste material – crushing, grinding and mineral processing. This must be achieved while containing overbreak, back damage, flyrock, noise, and vibration.”

Enaex Africa’s CEO, Francisco Baudrand, says poor blast performance in mining is usually a result of geological, geotechnical, operational or technical and environmental issues.

“Problems may be created by the presence of joints and geotechnical structures, or by excessive water in the holes.

Furthermore, hard rock with the inadequate selection of explosives agent may mean there is not enough energy to the blast, while improper blast design, blast sequence and explosives selection are additional challenges,” he says.

ROCK AND A HARD PLACE

“Other potential problems include sub-optimal block preparation drilling practices, leading to short or collapsing holes, inadequate stemming material, and environmental factors – including ground conditions and weather, among others.”

Poor blast performance also reduces productivity, he notes, by causing outcomes such as ine icient fragmentation, which will increase processing costs, accelerates loading equipment wear, and decreases loading equipment productivity, among others.

“It may also lead to sub-optimal muck pile distribution, which will decrease loading equipment productivity; flyrocks, which might damage property, equipment or people; excess of vibrations, which might damage property, equipment and/ or a ect neighbouring communities; or the generation of an oxygen unbalanced detonation, which will create fumes. All of these challenges a ect productivity and costs at di erent magnitudes.”

Tose indicates that improving blast performance depends on the correct modelling of the whole “mine to mill” process, not operating in silos, and understanding that a “saving” in the blast cost does not necessarily translate to value in terms of mineral recovery.

“Using the correct tools to measure and track the fragmentation, understanding the cause of poor performance and redesigning for improvements is key. The combination of explosives, controlling the mean size of the rock fragments, and using electronic detonators to manage the uniformity, gives great flexibility in managing the geology and rock properties to optimise the fragmentation.”

Baudrand agrees, pointing out that an optimum fragmentation will decrease ore processing costs, decrease wear elements and maintenance in loading equipment, and optimise equipment productivity, thereby decreasing mining costs and improving throughput.

VALUABLE BENEFITS

BME’s GM for technology, Nishen Hariparsad, suggests that the benefits of achieving optimum fragmentation extend to immediate and long-term economic value to mining customers, and further into tangible gains in both safety and environmental avenues.

Poor blast performance in mining is usually a result of geological, geotechnical, operational or technical and environmental issues. – Baudrand

“A predictable blast, yielding consistent fragmentation and blast outcomes, delivers savings as well as productivity gains. Moreover, blasting is a fundamental step in the mining process, and a quality blast will generate predictable consistency, muck piles, and dilution. This makes everything easier, from digging to crushing, and eliminates pain points throughout the mining value chain,” he says.

“The benefits of optimum fragmentation can also be expanded beyond productivity, cost avoidance and energy savings. It also o ers a benefit that supports and feeds into mining companies’ quest for ‘green’ benefits. For example, in BME’s quest to deliver optimum fragmentation, our choice of controlled explosive emulsions and precision blasting systems also reduce vibrations, control fume emissions and limit the need for autonomous energy inputs.”

These benefits, continues Hariparsad, all talk directly to lowering environmental footprints while further firming up BME’s customers’ commitment and accountability in using “green” practices in the industry. “These are just some of the benefits that achieving optimum fragmentation can deliver.”

Talking to the benefits of good blast design, AECI’s Tose says that suitable controls reduce the impact of overbreak,

back damage, flyrock, noise, and vibration.

“Remember that it is not always about the cost savings, but rather about the mineral recovery and the added value of this – in the end, just a small reduction here can impact the bottom line significantly.”

GOOD BLAST DESIGN

Nonetheless, says Baudrand, the sort of average cost savings that can be obtained through optimising the blasting process are significant.

“It depends on several factors like rock hardness, amount of material mined, and so on. At Enaex, we believe that through optimising parameters and addressing the issues mentioned, we can reduce drilling and blasting costs between 5% and 10% a year, in a base case scenario.”

In terms of good blast design, Hariparsad says pre-splitting is a technique in mining operations that aims to enhance rock fragmentation and overall blasting e iciency.

“It involves creating a stable zone along the rock surface before the primary blast, which allows for controlled fracturing and helps to minimise the risk of overbreak. This technique also contributes to maintaining a more uniform material size, which is of utmost importance in mining operations, and talks directly to a mechanism of achieving optimum fragmentation.”

CONTROLLING FRAGMENTATION

Fragmentation is controlled by understanding and managing the following factors:

■ Rock type, geology and properties

■ Mass of explosives

■ Explosive type

■ Stemming

■ Drilling and blast crush zone

■ Accuracy of timing

He points out that the need for technology and systems to improve productivity arises especially when commodity prices decrease. Therefore, the industry has to consider the benefits of new technologies and optimise blasting practices through these new technologies, like electronic initiation systems.

“The use of these technologies in continually overcoming poor blasting, substandard practices and challenging geologies is vital. Technology is key to continually targeting consistent and predictable fragmentation, something that has, I am pleased to note, gone beyond best practice implementation and has essentially now become normal practice implementation,” says Hariparsad.

ENAEX AFRICA

DELIVERING PREMIUM BLASTING SOLUTIONS FOR OVER 100 YEARS

Enaex Africa, established in July 2020 from a joint venture with Sasol, is a leading blasting services company recognised for operational and technical excellence.

Enaex Africa is a leading blasting services company recognised for operational and technical excellence. Guided by safety, integrity, innovation and sustainability, the company o ers top-tier products and services across Africa.

Its advanced explosives, production and storage facilities ensure reliable results. Moreover, the company prioritises employee training and strict environmental standards, reflecting its commitment to excellence and responsible business practices.

As a leader in explosives and rock fragmentation, Enaex Africa empowers employees, fosters teamwork and drives growth, sustainability and excellence in Africa’s mining sector.

ENAEX’S VALUES

At Enaex Africa, the organisation’s core values are integral to its success. The number one priority is life, in that Enaex prioritises employee safety, integrity, environmental responsibility and community development.

The business is also obsessed with excellence – upholding high standards,

fulfilling commitments, and continuously driven by accountability and honesty.

Crucially, the business sees its vocation as being around its customers. To this end, the enterprise is dedicated to service excellence, delivering exceptional value and o ering innovative solutions.

Lastly, Enaex Africa believes that its strength lies in innovation and entrepreneurship. The business promotes innovation and embraces calculated risks, to drive long-term growth and tackle challenges more e ectively.

OUR PRODUCTS

Enaex Africa provides a comprehensive range of mining explosives and accessories, for both opencast and underground mining in Sub-Saharan Africa. Our o erings include bulk explosives, packaged explosives, and initiation systems.

The success of the above means that Enaex Africa e ectively serves opencast customer sites throughout Sub-Saharan Africa, driving growth, sustainability and excellence in the mining sector.

END-TO-END SOLUTIONS

Enaex Africa has a proud heritage as a world-class explosives leader and is the result of a joint venture between Enaex and Sasol. Today, the company produces and distributes a wide variety of explosives and value-added solutions, providing all the products required to execute the entire blasting process.

This includes several types of bulk emulsions, cartridge emulsions, boosters and conventional and electronic detonators, among others. These products are used in blasting for opencast and underground mining operations, quarries and civil construction.

The company’s production facilities are also worth a mention, as it has manufacturing operations that are based in Secunda and Rustenburg, along with the corporate headquarters, which are located in Sandton. Lastly, Enaex Africa also has regional o ices in the Northern Cape, Rustenburg, Steelpoort, Witbank, and Swakopmund in Namibia.

Enaex Introduces DaveyTronic® 5 to Revolutionize The South African Mining Industry

Leveraging Over 100 Years of Blasting Experience.

The DT5 system is a significant advancement in blasting for mining and construction, integrating precision, safety, flexibility, efficiency and data optimization. The DT5 electronic detonator enables precise timing, reduces misfires and enhances blast design flexibility, improving overall efficiency and safety while supporting environmental protection.

Enaex's ongoing innovation led to the development of the advanced DaveyTronic® 5 (DT5) system, revolutionizing detonating and blasting techniques.

THE IMPORTANCE OF MOTOR MAINTENANCE

Electro-mechanical

engineers play

a vital role in

maintaining

the electric motors that ensure a mine can keep critical operations constantly

running.

By Rodney Weidemann

Electric motors have long played a critical role in the mining and mineral processing sector, driving the equipment that is essential to the industry’s operations. This encompasses everything from generators and pumps to conveyors, crushers, mills, and even the mine hoist itself.

Obviously, these motors have vitally important functions within the mine, and as such, it’s imperative that they are properly designed and constructed. Moreover, it is just as critical to ensure they are correctly and e ectively maintained, in order to not only withstand the harsh environments they operate in, but also to increase durability and longevity, and to meet high production demands.

According to Mike Chamberlain, marketing and commercial executive at Marthinusen & Coutts, this is where the electro-mechanical engineer comes in. It is their job to combine knowledge of both electrical and mechanical engineering principles, in order to ensure the operation and maintenance of these motors, across the industry.

“The nature of this equipment is such that there are numerous problems that can arise, with the majority of these being mechanical in origin, due to rotating parts and vibrations

that create wear and tear. It is for this reason that maintenance of varying levels is so crucial,” he says.

“The three main types of maintenance are corrective, preventive and predictive maintenance. Corrective maintenance encompasses those activities undertaken to detect, isolate, and rectify a fault, so that failed equipment can be restored to its normal operable state.”

The second level of maintenance, says Chamberlain, is preventive in nature. This aims to prevent occurrence of the failure, by performing scheduled maintenance at regular intervals.

“Predictive maintenance is the third level, and the goal here is firstly to predict when equipment failure might occur, and secondly to prevent occurrence of the failure by performing maintenance. At this level, maintenance is only performed on machines when it is required, as predicted by condition monitoring.”

He says South African mines have faced the additional challenges related to load shedding and blackouts. The constant stopping and starting that is a feature of load shedding is certainly not good for these motors, as it causes additional stress, and reduces their lifespan – which generally has a limited number of stops and starts.

MAINTENANCE LEVELS

LEVEL 1

■ Weekly checks carried out by the plant

■ Cleaning of slip-ring compartment and visual inspections

LEVEL 2

Six-monthly checks carried out by a specialist which include:

■ Voltage

■ Current temperatures

■ Start-up and rundown

■ Polarisation index

■ Insulation resistance

■ Resistances – auxiliaries and windings

■ Impedance

■ Inductance

■ Fasteners

■ Sha grounding brushes

LEVEL 3

Annual checks carried out by a specialist which include:

■ Vibration coupled and uncoupled

■ Voltage

■ Current

■ Temperatures

■ Start-up and rundown

■ Polarisation index

■ Insulation resistance

■ Resistances – auxiliaries and windings

■ Impedance

■ Inductance

■ Fasteners

■ Sha grounding brushes

■ Remove heat exchanger to inspect winding

■ Full bearing inspection

“ “ The three main types of maintenance are corrective, preventive and predictive maintenance.

“While it is necessary for electromechanical engineers to focus on maintenance to limit the impact of the constant stop-start created by load shedding, they are also in a position to assist the mines with maintenance of their generators. These are crucial in keeping operations running during power blackouts.

“There are similar skills involved, and

with both the electrical and mechanical disciplines under their belt, they have the skills to conduct maintenance on both the mine’s electric motors and the petrol or diesel motors of its generators.

“It boils down to the fact that reliability in your electrical motors onsite is absolutely essential. Remember that a failed motor can, in a worst-case scenario, stop the entire

YOUR 24/7 SERVICE PARTNER

Repairs,

operation in its tracks, or at the very least, ensure that part of the mine’s process capacity will be lost until the problem can be fixed.

“This loss of earnings capacity alone should highlight the importance of ensuring the right expertise is always on hand to keep these motors running,” he says.

TO BUY, OR NOT TO BUY?

Heavy equipment is vital to mining operations, but it also comes at a cost. Therefore, most contractors have to make the choice between purchasing outright, and simply renting their machines.

By Rodney Weidemann

Mining contractors who use everything from electric rope shovels and conveyors to excavators and trucks face a decision when new machines are required. Do they pay a large, once-o fee and then own the equipment, or should they rather pay for it in increments via a rental agreement?

Getting this decision right is vital as the decision will inevitably a ect your profitability and impact the productivity of your fleet and operators.

While the ultimate choice will be driven by factors related to their individual needs and circumstances, contractors need to ask themselves if the projects are long-term, where the equipment will be used frequently – in which case purchasing may prove more cost-e ective in the long run.

If the projects are of a shorter term, hiring the equipment could be more beneficial, as it allows the customer to save on upfront costs, and only pay for the equipment when it is required. It’s important then to consider

one’s budget, alongside the frequency of use, and your future plans. In this way, you can determine which option is most suitable for your overall success in the mining industry.

Purchasing equipment allows a business to make upgrades and improvements at its own pace, potentially giving it a competitive edge in the industry. Also, renting may limit your access to the latest technology, as rental companies may not always have the newest models available.

This is likely why leasing, rather than buying capital assets that depreciate, is increasingly making more and more business sense, says Bianca Smit, national operations manager at CFAO Equipment SA. Increasingly, she adds, companies that were historically cash customers have swung to

renting equipment, as they want to “pay for use, not for ownership”.

“These companies don’t want their equipment to become a liability. To avoid having to decide how to dispose of equipment a er its useful life, they rather rent. A er all, the capital required to buy equipment makes rental an easier choice, as there are far lower upfront costs, and there is no fear of seeing your fluid cash turned into a fixed asset,” she says.

“This can weaken your company’s financial position, and banks or investors can view this negatively. The flexibility that rental o ers, where you are not saddled with a depreciating asset forever, is more suited to South Africa’s economical volatility.

“One of the benefits of renting is that

Companies that were historically cash customers have swung to renting equipment, as they want to pay for use, not for ownership. “ “

the uptime of a customer’s fleet remains uninterrupted, even if there is a major breakdown, as a replacement machine will be made available from the short-term rental

IN-DEMAND EQUIPMENT

CAT International has outlined some examples of the most sought-a er machines:

■ Draglines: A dragline is a valuable surface mining machine that uses a bucket attached to a wire cable to remove overburden in strip and open-pit mining operations.

■ Electric rope shovels: Also known as power shovels, these tools function much like an excavator to dig and load earth and rock during the mineral extraction process.

■ Drills: Rotary and track drills cut precise holes for blasting in underground mining applications.

■ Highwall miners: A highwall miner uses a specially designed cutter module to extract coal from exposed seams.

■ Longwall miners: Longwall mining systems consist of shears mounted on hydraulic ceiling supports that create long, single slices of coal.

Ultimately, there are pros and cons to both buying and renting mining equipment, so it is important to carefully consider your budget, individual needs, and future plans before making a decision. In a nutshell,

■ Surface mining conveyor systems: Conveying equipment helps to move large volumes of mined materials over long distances.

■ Room and pillar: These underground mining systems extract mined materials (typically coal, gypsum, uranium or iron) across a horizontal plane.

■ Hard rock: Hard rock mining applications can benefit from a wide range of equipment such as rock flow and rock straight systems, as well as underground mining trucks and load-haul-dump loaders.

■ Many types of general-use earthmoving equipment also contribute to mining operations. Examples include hydraulic excavators, skid steer loaders, articulated trucks, backhoes, bulldozers and cranes.

while purchasing may provide long-term cost savings and access to new technology, renting can be more a ordable for shortterm projects, and allows for flexibility in equipment usage.

THE BENEFITS OF BUYING VERSUS RENTING

When it comes to acquiring heavy machinery for use in mining operations, contractors need to decide whether to purchase their equipment outright, or rent it instead.

For contractors who operate heavy machinery at mining sites, the acquisition of such equipment is generally undertaken in one of two ways: either the contractor purchases the capital equipment directly, or chooses to rent it from a supplier for a contracted period.

Both options have their positives and negatives, as outlined by SANY Southern Africa, one of the newer suppliers of such equipment on the local market.

According to Jay Moodley, GM for Sales at SANY Southern Africa, most contractors want to establish themselves as serious players in the sector. And to do so, most prefer to own their own equipment, as this demonstrates the professionalism of the business, and ensures that they are taken more seriously in the mining environment.

“Then, if one takes the bigger picture view, an equipment purchase is a once-o investment, which means whatever hours the contractor accumulates on the machine, these are purely profit. Moreover, the lifetime costs on SANY machines are among the lowest for both purchase and a er-sales service,” he says.

“The challenge around financing the purchase of such equipment remains, however. Financing is not always readily available to smaller or medium-sized customers, and some banks today refuse to provide financing for certain types of capital equipment, such as the machines used for mining coal.”

Moodley suggests that for him, the rental model works best for organisations that wish to test a machine from a newly released line, as this allows them to ensure it is applicable

to their business, giving them peace of mind before committing to an outright purchase.

“While we sell the client the machines, we still have maintenance and service level agreements that cover the clients for the replacement or repair of components, as required.”

On the rental side of the equation, Thabo Lerumo, operations manager at SANY Equipment, points out that renting makes sense to many contractors in today’s market, as not every business has the capital to invest in purchasing equipment.

“Renting releases pressure on their cash flow, and may even a ord them the leeway to save money over time, towards ultimately buying the machine outright. Furthermore, with a rental agreement, contractors get the opportunity to use the machines and experience what they can do, without fully committing to a purchase,” he says.

“It is also worth noting that most mining projects today are shorter term than the decades-long operations of the past. With project lifespans reduced, renting o ers customers a more convenient and flexible option than buying something that’s lifespan may significantly outlast the life of the actual project.”

He says while regular preventive maintenance like daily greasing and oil checks are conducted by the client, all scheduled maintenance is performed by SANY.

“Moreover, at the end of the life of the equipment, which is at around 8 000 hours, SANY will replace the machine with a new model, and refurbish

the older one for reuse. Ultimately, this means that clients who rent equipment always have access to machines that are essentially new.”

In the end, continues Moodley, the fact that both rental and purchasing options are available to contractors o ers them a “best of both worlds” scenario.

“There is certainly a place for both rental and purchase platforms to exist, in order to meet a wide range of customer requirements. It is always good when an original equipment manufacturer, like ourselves, is able to o er a healthy balance of purchasing and rental options to its clients.”

EXPLORATION IN SOUTH AFRICA WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD?

The SA mining industry urgently needs to increase greenfi eld exploration activities. Efforts by government, the Council for Geoscience, and others offer a light at the end of the tunnel for the sector.

By Dr Andries van der Linde PhD, Head of Renewable Energy at SSC Group

South Africa has historically made a name for itself as a mineralrich country, because of its large number of exploitable minerals – some 163 of them, including a category of unspecified minerals, as listed in the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act of 2002 (MPRDA). In addition, SA’s status as the largest producer of platinum, and one of the largest producers of coal, gold and diamonds, remains undisputed.

Regardless of 150 years of mining, SA still has an abundance of under-exploited and under-explored potential to be realised. In 2003, exploration activity in SA reached its peak, at 5% of global expenditure; however, this has now dropped to the current level of just 0.08%. But is this all it appears to be?

When one looks at the data in context, the 5% of global expenditure was at a time when global spending was at a low point, a er which there was a steady increase in exploration activity across the world. In the African context, SA’s expenditure on exploration stands at 34%, while the continent’s standing is at 3% of global expenditure.

To increase exploration, the South African Exploration Implementation Plan (EIP), released in 2022, was dra ed so that its implementation could address exploration issues. The aim being to expand and

strengthen the SA mining industry’s ability to meet mineral demand, as well as being able to compete with other producers on a global level.

The objective of the plan was to get back to the 5% peak in five years, but the intended upturn has not materialised. There are also under-the-radar developments influencing the numbers, such as a move towards old projects rather than new ones, as well as a growth in unlisted exploration, with the apparent result that greenfield exploration is shrinking.

THE ONGOING CADASTRE SAGA

This brings us to the elephant in the room. This author has previously written in this publication about the mining cadastre, which was to replace the current SA Mineral Resources Administration Database (SAMRAD) system. That article began by saying that the objective of mineral processing was to produce maximum value from a given raw material, and to derive value from unexplored and sterile resources.

As with anything in life, there must be a starting point and, in this case, it is the knowledge of where the minerals are – and for this there are numerous tools to assist the prospector, starting with researching geological features. In this regard, resources from the Council for Geoscience, which makes data, information, and knowledge

available to the mining and exploration industry, comes to mind.

The sources of such data can come from surface exploration, aerial surveys, or satellite sensor technology. This evolved to compare-and-contrast methods based on magnetic and electromagnetic data, regional gravity data, topographic mapping, ground penetrating radar, infrared spectroscopy, and photogrammetry. However, these only provide indicators, with confirmation only ultimately established by means of test holes. In other words, with or without assistance, mining exploration is not a simple task to undertake.

In addition, as per the EIP: “There are aspects of the current architecture of the mining regulatory framework that require improvement, to sharpen the e icacy of the law, protect the sanctity of the investments, and to facilitate cooperation among stakeholders. It should also e ect optimal exploitation of the mineral resources, in a manner that advances the notion of shared value – which benefits the investors, workers, host communities and government alike.”

The EIP goes further in identifying several barriers, such as the MPRDA limitation on time frames. This is exacerbated by financial constraints, refusal of access to privately owned land, and the approach of first-come, first-served, which promotes mediocrity. These policies and legislation are essentially

With any exploration, there must be a starting point and, in this case, it is the knowledge of where the minerals are. “ “

at odds with the objective of promoting exploration activities.

This brings one to challenges the mining explorer must face when dealing with diverse regulatory environments over and above mining. These include environmental impact; water use; property rights; social challenges; financial management; tax; and law and order. To add to this, the additional challenges – such as the availability and access to reliable and functional infrastructure and services such as electricity, water, roads, ports and rails – adds to the risk factor associated with exploration outcomes, and as a result, impacts on financial support.

Just to read through the MPRDA and associated regulations is daunting enough. Then there are the permit procedures and plans that must be submitted. This remains a challenge with the dysfunctional SAMRAD system still not having been addressed.

ROLE OF THE COUNCIL FOR GEOSCIENCE

However, it is not all doom and gloom. Firstly, a Junior Mining Exploration Fund of R400-million has been established, with a call for a first round of applications – which deadlined in July – having been issued. These funds will be disbursed by the newly reconstituted Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, in partnership with the Council for Geoscience, and the Industrial

Development Corporation (IDC), on an equal basis.

These disbursements, of between R5m and R45m, will be grant funding that is converted to equity on discovery. There will be restrictions, such as on the sale of rights, and the need for a 50% black ownership, while a plan focused on geology, costs, viability, etc. must also be submitted.

From a support perspective, the Council for Geoscience stands out for its role in dra ing the EIP. A significant percentage of mapping has been upgraded on an ongoing process, while a 40 000km2 pegmatite belt has been added to the database.

Pegmatite is a granite-like rock that houses rare earth elements, including lithium, tantalum, niobium, and several gemstones. The Council for Geoscience currently holds the most extensive mineral database in the country, and as a result, its public information o ice is finding a marked increase in requests for information from junior prospectors, because of the shi of interest from multinationals.

In addition, the Council for Geoscience has an important role to play when it comes to the Junior Exploration Fund. Firstly, it recognises that exploration is, by its very nature, a high-risk activity from a financial perspective. As a result, it also recognises the importance of derisking exploration through a rigorous

KEY MINERALS IN SA

■ Gold

■ Platinum group metals

■ Chrome

■ Manganese

■ Zirconium

■ Vanadium

■ Titanium

due diligence process when it comes to applications and recommended projects. More importantly, with its experience and extensive database, the council also provides technical support and advice.

With regard to the EIP, the intention is certainly there – but as the saying goes, the proof of the pudding lies in the eating. Some steps have been taken to resolve issues, and the Junior Exploration Fund is a good start. Moreover, with the Council for Geoscience stepping in to help derisk projects, financial institutions will hopefully more readily support junior miners.

As a last word, there is the issue of SAMRAD and the mining cadastre. If the new cadastre lives up to expectations, mining exploration could at long last be placed on a solid footing.

THE MPRDA AND ITS IMPACT ON FUTURE MINING INVESTMENTS

While its goal was to facilitate equitable access and redistribute mineral wealth, the implications of the MPRDA and its impact on investment dynamics have come under renewed scrutiny, two decades later.

The introduction of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA) in 2004 marked a transformative shi in South Africa’s mining landscape. This pivotal legislation redefined mineral resource management, transferring mineral rights from private entities to state custodianship.

Its goal was to facilitate equitable access and redistribute mineral wealth. However, two decades later, as global mining companies eye significant acquisitions in the region, the implications of the MPRDA and its impact on investment dynamics have come under renewed scrutiny.

By Bruce Dickinson Partner, Webber Wentzel

The MPRDA was a cornerstone of South Africa’s post-apartheid economic strategy, embedding black economic empowerment requirements to rectify historical imbalances. While this led to increased local participation in mining, it introduced complexities for foreign investors, who now had to navigate these new partnership and ownership paradigms.

This regulation, designed to boost social equity, inadvertently injected a degree of investor caution, due to the perceived risks and costs associated with compliance and potential policy shi s.

Environmental and social governance (ESG) standards also took centre stage under the MPRDA, mandating stringent adherence to sustainable mining practices. These provisions were forward-thinking at inception, aligning South Africa with global shi s towards environmental conservation and community welfare in mining operations.

dichotomy: spinning o South African assets to mitigate risks associated with local operations. This strategy underscores a cautious approach towards the complexities introduced by the MPRDA. Such moves might be seen as a bid to secure value and streamline operations without inheriting the intricate web of regulatory and social obligations tied to South African assets.

This scenario begs a larger question about the future of mining investment in South Africa: does the MPRDA framework support the kind of environment that attracts large-scale, foreign investment?

While it has undeniably fostered a more equitable industry, the act’s implications for operational certainty and investment appeal cannot be overlooked. Investors seek stable, predictable, and competitive regulatory regimes. The ongoing amendments and debates surrounding the MPRDA suggest a regulatory environment in flux, unsettling investors.

This regulation, designed to boost social equity, inadvertently injected a degree of investor caution, due to the perceived risks and costs associated with compliance and potential policy shi s “ “

While the MPRDA’s emphasis on ESG has demonstrably improved environmental practices and community welfare, the associated compliance and operational hurdles have been a double-edged sword. They’ve raised the bar for environmental and community stewardship, while potentially deterring all but the most committed investors from entering the market.

EVOLVING LANDSCAPE

Looking at the landscape as it has evolved over a number of years and the strategies employed by global mining companies highlights the

However, this is not to say that the MPRDA is without merit. The act’s emphasis on social and environmental responsibilities should be viewed as a strength in an era where ESG factors significantly influence investment decisions. The key challenge for South Africa will be to refine the act to balance investor needs with national interests.

For South Africa to attract mining investment, the lessons gleaned from the MPRDA’s impact and the strategic considerations of global mining companies will be crucial. The country’s ability to adapt its regulations to foster both local development and global competitiveness will dictate the future landscape of mining investments. Balancing these will determine whether South Africa can regain its status as a top mining destination, while honouring its commitment to social and environmental stewardship.

This nuanced navigation between global investment practices and local socio-economic development goals will define the next chapter of South Africa’s mining industry – a chapter that all stakeholders in the mining industry should help to author.

The views expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect SA Mining’s editorial policy.

THE SA MINING SECTOR’S CONTINUING EVOLUTION

Over the past 30 years, the local mining industry has undergone massive changes. SA Mining looks at how these shifts have all been for the better.

By Rodney Weidemann

Over the past three decades of the South African democratic project, the local mining industry has evolved significantly. SA Mining spoke to the Minerals Council South Africa (MCSA) about the huge changes that have occurred in the sector over this period, the challenges that have been faced, and the improvements that can still be made.

According to MCSA CEO Mzila Mthenjane, in the past three decades, the mining industry has fundamentally changed how it engages all stakeholders and conducts its operations.

“These changes have been for the better, especially in the health and safety arena. We have seen improved safety and health performance, and significant and impactful contributions to society from the mining sector. For example, since 1994, the number of fatalities has decreased by 88%, and injuries have decreased by 75%, reflecting our members’ commitment to the safety and health of all employees,” he says.

“Two of the historically leading causes of fatalities, namely falls of ground and transport and machinery, have received unwavering and uncompromising focus from all parties. This includes the MCSA, the leadership teams of its members, and key

stakeholders like the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR), Mine Health and Safety Council, and organised labour. We are all united in our quest for zero harm.”

He points to several interventions that have contributed to a 95% decline in fatalities caused by falls of ground incidents –from 239 in 1994 to just 15 today – indicating that the MCSA’s Fall of Ground Action Plan is delivering the step changes in safety everyone is working towards.

THE FIGHT AGAINST DISEASE

“Meanwhile, the significant decrease of 91% in transport and machinery fatalities in the past three decades, from a high of 87 to a mere eight, is a direct result of the strong, visible leadership at operations. Significant progress has also been made in reducing the cases of tuberculosis (TB), silicosis, and noise-induced hearing loss.”

For example, at the peak of the TB epidemic in the early 2000s, incidence rates in the mining industry were almost seven times higher than those of the general population, he says. Moreover, in 2003, a total of 8 400 cases of TB were diagnosed in the industry, translating to an incidence rate of 1 928 out of every 100 000 employees.

While the industry’s fight against TB has

been a long one, notes Mthenjane, it has also been an encouraging one, with the year 2003 marking a seminal year for the industry, through the establishment of milestones for improving TB.

“In 2014, the Mine Health and Safety Council set its goal as being to achieve a TB incidence rate for the sector below the national average, within 10 years. By 2022, the TB incidence rate was 278 employees for every 100 000 individuals – well below the national rate of 537 individuals for every 100 000 members of the population. This is one of the industry’s major achievements in improving the health of mineworkers over the past three decades.

“We have also made significant inroads in reducing silicosis and noise-induced hearing loss cases, with reductions of 90% and 86%, respectively, between 2003 and 2022. I would like to point out that the CEOs of our member companies have been instrumental in inspiring and driving these safety improvements,” says Mthenjane.

NUMEROUS CHALLENGES

Talking to the challenges the sector faces, he adds that on production, the recent performance and the long-term trend for total mining output supports the narrative of an industry in decline.

Between 1994 and 2023, measured in inflation-adjusted (real) terms, mining production declined an average of 0.4% annually. This is overwhelmingly the result of a deep, structural decline in the gold mining industry.

“Since 1994 gold production has shrunk an average 5.8% annually. Put di erently, SA went from producing 580 tonnes of gold a year in 1994 to less than 97 tonnes in 2023. A nuanced view of the domestic mining industry needs to strip the collapse in gold output from the overall mining production number. Fortunately, Statistics SA releases the total mining production figure with and without gold,” he says.

“Once gold is removed from the overall number, we find that non-gold mining production actually expanded at an annual average of 1.3% since 1994. This reveals a far better mining sector performance, though it is still only half the 2.6% average growth in nonmining GDP (at basic prices) since 1994.”

Nonetheless, suggests Mthenjane, some mining sub-sectors have achieved stellar growth since 2008, even outpacing the performance in non-mining sectors. Chrome has been the star performer, with output increasing by an annual average of 6.4% since 2008. On average, production of manganese increased 3.9% a year during the same period.

EMPLOYMENT ISSUES

“Employment in the mining sector mirrors production trends. Overall industry employment declined from 611 000 in 1994 to about 480 000 during 2023. Once again, the e ect on the gold sector is particularly stark, with employment plunging from 392 000 in 1994 to fewer than 94 000 last year.

“In the non-gold mining sector, employment actually increased, from 219 000 to 386 000 during the corresponding period. Though the job gains in the non-gold sector were unable to compensate for the haemorrhaging in gold, these figures again highlight a more nuanced picture of the mining sector than the general downbeat perception.”

He feels that this overall snapshot speaks to an SA mining industry that has undergone a dramatic transformation, away from gold being dominant, towards a far more diversified sector.

“SA is the world’s leading producer of platinum and chrome, and also produces a range of other minerals, including coal, iron ore, manganese and copper. Mining is far safer than before, and senior management in the industry is notably more diverse along race and gender lines than it was at the dawn of democracy.

Two of the historically leading causes of fatalities, namely falls of ground and transport and machinery, have received unwavering and uncompromising focus from all parties. “ “

MINE SAFETY

Mining is far safer than before, and senior management in the industry is notably more diverse along race and gender lines than it was at the dawn of democracy.

“The improvements in health and safety, as well as the investments made in research, development and innovation, have laid the foundation for a long-term South African mining industry.”

The Minerals Council is actively engaging the DMPR on critical minerals and the regulations that govern the mining industry, he adds, highlighting that the need for harmonisation of government departments and regulations pertaining to mining is essential. This will in turn encourage investment in exploration, the construction of new mines and the expansion or life extension of existing operations.

“A functioning, transparent, and e ective cadastral system, that can properly manage mineral rights applications digitally and in a timeous and e icient manner, is an essential component of a modern, thriving mining industry.

“Such a system is integral to encouraging greater levels of mining exploration, and if SA is to play its role in the domestic and global critical minerals value chain, exploration will undoubtedly be the critical building block on which we can build the future of mining in the country,” says Mthenjane.

Mzila Mthenjane.

Elevating Mining Standards Through Innovation & Sustainability

Enaex, the Chilean multinational explosives company, is confident in South Africa’s mining industry and it’s potential for technological innovation.

Strategic Expansion and Collaborative Innovation

In the dynamic landscape of the African mining industry, Enaex Africa emerges as a ‘Thought Leader’ in Technological Innovation. As a subsidiary of Enaex, the esteemed Chilean multinational organization, Enaex Africa is leveraging over a century of expertise in Explosives and Blasting solutions.

Enaex's acquisition of Sasol’s Explosive business in 2020 highlighted their confidence in the South African Mining Industry's future. This move also initiated partnerships with key mining industry players and local institutions like Stellenbosch University's robotics team.

Enaex Africa leverages strategic acquisitions and collaborations to drive tecnological innovation.

These collaborations aim to enhance safety and efficiency in both opencast and deep underground mining operations, leveraging innovative technologies like Artificial Intelligence.

A Legacy of Innovation

Enaex's Davey Bickford division has been at the forefront of blasting technology since the invention of the safety fuse in 1831 and the detonation cord in 1906.

These groundbreaking innovations laid the foundation for Enaex's ongoing commitment to continuous improvement in detonating and blasting techniques. This journey of innovation resulted in the development of the latest initiation system, known as the DaveyTronic® 5 (DT5) system.

The opening of DaveyTronic® facility at Secunda showcases their dedication to innovation and reliability in South Africa.

The DT5 system is a significant advancement in blasting for mining and construction, integrating precision, safety, flexibility, efficiency and data optimization. The DT5 Electronic Detonator’s maximum delay time of 30 seconds enables precise timing, reduces misfires and enhances blast design flexibility, improving overall efficiency and safety while supporting environmental protection.

In Photo From Left: Comfort Mathenjwa, Sales & Mining Executive; Francisco Baudrand, VP & CEO; Phumzile Buthelezi, People & Sustainability Executive.

Under Francisco Baudrand’s leadership , Enaex Africa emerges as a leader for economic transformation, inclusivity and sustainability in South Africa.

Enaex Africa introduced the DaveyTronic® systems technology to South Africa by establishing a cutting-edge factory (manufacturing facility) in Secunda, Mpumalanga. The introduction of this advanced technology is beneficial in fueling the growth and evolution of the South African and African markets, playing a crucial role in the country's technological development.

Driving Empowerment and Development

Leading Enaex Africa is VP and CEO, Francisco Baudrand, a visionary whose dedication extends beyond industry boundaries. His leadership, shaped by a multicultural background and Chilean heritage, is deeply committed to driving South Africa's growth. In addition to driving industry expansion, he actively supports local communities, embodying Enaex Africa's core value and motto, 'Priority is Life’.

A Level 2 B-BBEE certification demonstrates their dedication to economic inclusivity and local growth.

Their philosophy emphasizes smooth transitions from Early Childhood Development (ECD) to primary education, ensuring a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Under Baudrand's leadership, Enaex Africa has also achieved a Level 2 B-BBEE certification for two consecutive years, showcasing a strong commitment to economic inclusivity and local growth.

A Path Towards Sustainable Growth

These initiatives reflect Enaex Africa's dedication to creating stronger bonds, technological excellence, environmental stewardship and community engagement.

This paves the way for sustainable development in Africa's mining sector, playing a crucial role in South Africa's ongoing evolution. Our Priority: LIFE Our Obsession:

Our Vocation: OUR CUSTOMERS Our Strength: INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Enaex Africa's educational initiative started with the Bohlale Early Childhood Centre and now encompasses Mante Primary School, guaranteeing a seamless transition for students. They are also in the process of developing the Ndzame Day Care Centre in East London, Eastern Cape.

Overcoming Barriers of AI

Adoption in Mining With Enterprise Outsourcing Enterprise Outsourcing Pioneering Mining Automation

in revolutionizing industries worldwide and the of mining operations, the ability to process immense volumes of data and extract actionable insights has become vital.

“Enterprise Outsourcing’s in South African mines and address communication and remote monitoring.”

Spearheading automation solutions and cutting edge data analytics, Enterprise Outsourcing has been invaluable in shaping the industry’s digital and sustainability.

Advancing Mining Operations with AI Intergration

a vital role in mitigating operational hazards. With they monitor operations in real-time, detecting irregularities and anticipating potential dangers. its ability to process immense volumes of data and

extend across vast territories, this capability is essential.

measures to help overcome challenges and maximize AI’s potential in South African mining.”

Enterprise Outsourcing has been instrumental in their expertise in high precision monitoring, collision avoidance and predictive solutions for explosive and vehicle monitoring, they enable mining companies to analyse operational data with unprecedented accuracy. Through their state-of-the-art, userfriendly applications, mining engineers can visualize complex data sets, facilitating informed decision-

maintaining continuity. Addressing global environmental concerns, sustainability is now a top communication and data sharing across mining sites through private cloud hosting and collaboration solutions. Their telecommunication solutions enable remote monitoring, reducing physical presence and environmental impact. Enterprise Outsourcing, proactive cyber security measures, stands ready to collaborate with mining companies to overcome in mining.

Despite its transformative potential, the integration without its challenges. Limited infrastructure, obstacles also present opportunities for innovation and collaboration.

ZIZWE OPENCAST MINING SEEKS TO REPLICATE PREVIOUS SUCCESSES

KUMBA UPGRADES WATER SUPPLY FOR RURAL COMMUNITIES

As part of its social labour plan commitments, Kumba Iron Ore’s Sishen Mine has successfully completed upgrades on a bulk water scheme, providing water security in villages located in the Joe Morolong Municipality.

Valued at R11-million, the project upgraded nine boreholes across four villages – Sesipi, Perth, Kome and Tsiloane – delivering an average of 480kl of water a day to residents. The project’s scope of work made provision for refurbishments to the steel pump houses, ancillary borehole pipework, electrical equipment and mechanical components, which included diesel engines.

The nine boreholes will primarily run o  solar power installations that have capacity to produce enough energy to run motors on a moderate speed in partly cloudy conditions, while two of these are equipped with Eskom connections as a source of backup power.

Construction work on the bulk water supply scheme commenced in November 2023, in accordance with the Department of Water and Sanitation’s design criteria for rural community water supply and the guidelines for human settlement planning and design.

Projected to cater for over 6 000 village residents, the scheme also presents an opportunity for the development of government-subsidised housing to be introduced to the area.

The Northern Cape is one of South Africa’s water-scarce provinces, and access to water and sanitation is a challenge for many communities in the region. Thus the completion of the bulk water supply scheme is a great milestone, and an innovative intervention to introducing sustainable water security to rural areas such as this.

Zizwe Opencast Mining (Pty) Ltd, strategically focused on expanding its services into the coal market, acquired the Fraser Alexander Bulk Mech division on 1 May 2017, thereby gaining expertise in smelter internal material handling services. Post-acquisition, Zizwe underwent a restructuring process to enhance operational e iciency. In 2023, Zizwe decided to reenter the smelter internal material handling market, signifying renewed focus.

In this sector, Zizwe o ers comprehensive solutions for both hot work and cold work applications, including raw material handling, specialised slag digging and hauling, furnace tasks, furnace rabbling services and product handling. It ensures the e icient preparation and removal of ingot and layer casting beds and the handling of furnace and final products. General plant services like housekeeping, dust suppression, dump maintenance and road maintenance support overall operations.

Zizwe identified specific clients and smelters for re-entry, employing its “library of standards” and safety, health, environment and quality management system for safety and e iciency. It designs mobile equipment, tailored to hot work applications and original equipment manufacturer specifications, emphasising specialised service delivery.

The company also aims to expand globally into neighbouring countries, leveraging its mining sector expertise. It seeks to replicate its success, contributing to economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure development. By establishing itself as a leading player in the global mining industry and fostering partnerships with local communities, Zizwe aims to drive sustainable growth and development. Through strategic investments and applying best practices, it anticipates a significant positive impact on neighbouring countries’ mining landscapes.

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SA Mining, South Africa’s oldest mining magazine, has been providing insight into the local, Southern African and African mining space for 125 years.

PEIKKO’S RECYCLABLE DESIGN A FIRST IN SOUTH AFRICA

The design of a structure to facilitate future changes and dismantling (in part or whole) for recovery of systems, components, and materials, offers a fi rst for the country.

In what is thought to be a first in South Africa, Peikko SA has turned precast concrete construction techniques on their head, by providing an innovative design for an air plant for a mining project. It combines the advantages of concrete construction with the ability for the concrete elements to be dismantled and reused at a di erent location on demand.

“We were approached by Genet Mineral Processing – a Witbank-based customer who designs, fabricates and erects mineral processing, crushing and screening plants and related equipment for the mining industry – to submit a design for an air handling plant,” says Winston Visser, project engineer at Peikko SA.

“Upon receiving the customer design brief, we reviewed further and proposed a sub-frame and superstructure for the air plant – in a precast concrete frame with Peikko-bolted connections, for easy assembly, with the added advantage of being easily dismantled.”

This design approach and proposal were value-engineered by the customer engineering team against existing design proposals and other possible design solutions, including:

■ Structural steel frame (including surface treatment) – this proposal proved not satisfactorily responsive to dynamic loading/vibration and overall was more expensive.

■ Cast in-situ on-site option – this proposal proved to be time-consuming,

subjected to high-level health and safety requirements, and also more expensive.

He says the Peikko SA design proposal was reviewed by third-party independent structural consulting engineers and approved as suitable for this specific project application.

“Sustainable construction can be divided into two timeframes. In the short term, it’s crucial to minimise emissions related to materials and actual construction, which have an immediate impact. In the longer term, the reusability of materials is significant. In this project, we have considered both perspectives as e ectively as possible,” says Daniel Petrov, MD at Peikko SA.

The Peikko approach for the customerspecific project application has many advantages for the mining sector, he says, noting that bolted connections are key to dismantling. The load-bearing precast concrete elements were connected by bolts instead of welding. A bolted connection can be easily opened and closed, as long as it remains accessible.

“Once the connection is secured by threads, it can be opened, because the grout outside the structural element – such as the column or beam – can be lightly chipped away from the connection steel surface, revealing the threaded joint. The structure remains intact and can be easily reassembled.”

Peikko’s greener option, bolted connections, was a natural choice for the sustainable construction of the mock-up unit. The carbon footprint is 50% less, compared to conventional connections, allowing for a high environmental rating regardless of this specific or other project applications.

“Renewable energy was used for the manufacture of Peikko products for this and other projects. The estimated life span for these mining structures is approximately 20 years.

“A er their required service life, they can be dismantled, relocated and reassembled to wherever needed. This eliminates unnecessary structure manufacture and thus contributes to CO2 emissions reduction and increases the environmental sustainability of the structure,” says Visser.

KUMBA PARTNERS WITH SAFA TO DEVELOP GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL

Mine contributes to improving the level of football in the JTG region through the application of standardised coaching systems.

With a global fanbase of five billion people, football is the most popular sport in the world. Played in streets and stadiums alike, “the beautiful game” has become a source of joy and belonging, and most importantly is a source of livelihood for many people worldwide.

Being a developing region, Africa has cultivated one of the largest football fanbases globally, with a promising talent pool of young up and coming players. As a means to unlock potential talent in its area of influence and participate in organising structured football development at grassroots level, Kumba Iron Ore’s Sishen Mine has partnered with the South African Football Association’s John Taolo Gaetsewe (JTG) structure. The aim is to create an environment conducive to developing early talent and regulating the game at entry level.

Kumba Iron Ore’s R1-million contribution to the partnership will be used to sponsor a local football league, provide medicals for 900 players, develop local referees, and provide training for 30 school teachers to obtain SAFA Level D coaching licences. This will improve the level of football in the JTG region through the application of standardised coaching systems.

Socio-economic development o icer at Sishen Mine and project lead, Kealeboga Pilane, provides details on the significance of the project: “Sport has the unique ability to bring people from di erent

cultural backgrounds together and foster relationships that can positively contribute towards thriving communities.”

As the most popular sport in the country, structured football plays a key role regarding the development of young people, as it enables important life skills to take root in them. It also allows young promising talent to remain dedicated to their goal of being professional footballers.

“We trust that the funding provided to SAFA’s JTG structure will positively impact grassroots football in the region and unearth world-class talent that will be able to compete at international level,” notes Pilane.

Expressing his gratitude towards the

funding, SAFA vice president of the JTG District, Nkaelang Tanke, expands on what the funding means for local football development.

“We’d like to thank Kumba Iron Ore for supporting grassroots football. We are particularly excited about being able to train new referees. A er all, refereeing is key to the development of the sport at grassroots level, and the funding we received will help us produce more young referees.

“We also want to see more football players from our region exhibit their skills in the Premier Soccer League, and this contribution will assist in working towards that outcome,” he says.

ADVERTISING

Ilonka Moolman

011 280 3120

moolmani@samining.co.za

Tshepo Monyamane 011 280 3110

tshepom@samining.co.za

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