First Mining Drc-Zambia July/Aug 2021

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FEATURE

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IPR implements pump at Botswana opencast mine

RP Global, OOLU Solar partner to launch Westa.Solar

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Atlas Copco ZenergiZe energy storage systems

Novel plastic composite pipe prevents diffusion

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Wärtsilä pioneering pure hydrogen engines test

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Water stewardship gives mines the broader view

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TEAM Editor Bertha M. bertham@fmdrc-zambia Sub-Editor Nita Karume

Cover Image: ME Elecmetal

COVER STORY: PG 19 Customized Grinding Mill Liner Solution ME Elecmetal’s liner designs and materials are developed to deliver maximum wear life and throughput in both high impact and high abrasion applications, regardless of the

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type of mill.

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EDITOR’S COMMENT Time to embrace sustainable mining is now

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frica has over 30 percent of the world’s global mineral reserves. The continent produces over 60 different metals and minerals and has huge potential for exploration and production.

According to a recent World Bank report, mining has the potential to contribute significantly to economic growth and to help lift millions of people out of poverty. However, there have been concerns that the benefits of the resource boom are not widely shared and do not always translate into local development.

Large scale mining investments have not always led to the generation of local employment opportunities, nor have they contributed significantly to poverty alleviation, which can leave communities feeling excluded from the benefits and the wealth made by extractive industries. Challenges such as poor governance, and non-transparency are key issues hindering growth and development in the region. Large scale mining companies are also faced with potential conflicts with artisanal miners which can lead to a loss of production. Governments are increasingly recognising the importance of ensuring an enabling environment for mining that supports development, boosts the economy, and reduces social tensions.

Mining operations, both large scale open pit mining as well those carried out by artisanal miners, have far reaching consequences for human health and the environment. Land use can have implications on livelihoods and on food security if agricultural land is changed for mining purposes. Obtaining and maintaining a ‘social licence to operate’ and building relationships with local communities is a critical issue for the sector.

It is therefore very critical that mining companies ensure that as they meet the needs of the current generation, the lives of the future generations are not compromised.

Nita Karume

Mailing Times Media (Pty) Ltd makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the contents of its publications, but no warranty is made as to such accuracy and no responsibility will be borne by the publisher for the consequences of actions based on information so published. Further, opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by Mailing Times Media (Pty) Ltd

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NEWS

Integrated Pump Rental implements pump at Botswana opencast mine

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roviding solutions to challenging dewatering applications is what Integrated Pump Rental built its solid reputation on, and mines from as far afield as Botswana have called on this dewatering specialist to resolve water issues.Recently, a Sykes diesel driven pump set was used to rapidly dewater an existing copper mine in northern Botswana. Using this high performance, high head pump set, 103 million l of water was removed in 30 days to enable exploratory drilling to take place.

Steve du Toit, Rental Development Manager at Integrated Pump Rental, explains that due to unseasonably high rainfall it was no longer possible to reach the benches and the face where the exploratory core drilling needed to be done. “This was when the mine reached out to us requesting rapid assistance to avoid any further delays,” du Toit said. “After assessing the application

which meant that on arrival at the mine the unit could quickly be put to work dewatering the opencast. This unit has a flow rate of 120 l/sec. which meant that is could move some 3456 m3 of water in 8 hours, and as bonus it is also capable of handling solids with ease.

Engineered for reliable performance with low fuel consumption, the pump is able to work in dewatering applications for extended periods of time and its ability to operate in ‘snore’ conditions allows for conditions where suction levels may fluctuate.

requirement and operating conditions, we selected and dispatched one of our Sykes XH 150 rental pump sets.”

The Sykes XH 150 Rental pump sets are available either as trailer mounted units or on skids, allowing for easy installation on site, also facilitating the moving of the unit from section to section as required.

In this instance, a skid mounted unit was used. An advantage with the Sykes XH150 is that it offers automatic priming

Du Toit explains that in this particular application, renting a Sykes pump set made more sense for the mine but where ongoing dewatering is required in surface and underground mines customer often prefer to purchase the pump set outright.

“In a lot of these instances, we are still called upon to enter in service level agreements to ensure that the pump sets are correctly maintained ensuring the lowest total cost of ownership.”

TenzorGEO: Adressing key mining issues

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atural complications associated with rock caving and/or gas-watersteam inflows of various kinds occur regularly during shaft-sinking and tunnelling operations and can necessitate emergency shutdowns. Majority of such complications is caused by disjunctive disturbances and the associated shatter zones (increased fracturing) of the rock.

An early assessment done by TenzorGEO of the position of disjunctive disturbances and decompacted zones in new areas of oil mines prior to the start of the shaft-sinking and tunnelling operations allows for caving prevention measures to be put in place, thereby saving sinking time and reducing the risk of accidents during the construction of mine workings and their subsequent use.

The purpose of the TenzorGEO’s observations was to identify zones of active natural fracturing and determine the azimuth of their direction to predict faults and decompacted zones in the deep interval of mine workings in planned

mining operations in order to reduce the risk of caving during mine workings.

The key advantages of the TenzorGEO’s natural fracture monitoring method are: observation from the surface without the need to be in the mine; the ability to observe the entire assessment area, not just the area adjacent to the face, before the start of the shaft-sinking and tunnelling operations.

The key tool for this application is FWL and the main stages of work are; signal processing and filtering, calibration, numerical modelling, and restoration of the seismic moment tensor using the maximum likelihood method and event detection.

TenzorGEO can help to address some key mining issues in various ways.

Among them is use forecast maps to show accumulated microseismic events and assumed discontinuities along the section closest to the depth of the mine working. This in return helps to plan

and safely perform shaft-sinking and tunnelling operations in the areas of the studied blocks of mines.

Another ways is paying special attention to the areas of intersection of the shafts of the design mine workings with zones of increased microseismic activity, as the zones of decompaction of rocks and marked prospective ruptures, to minimise the risks of caving.

Using forecast maps for sections within the target reservoir at each of the assessment areas to design underground horizontal drilling in the productive reservoir in order to prevent complications and accidents, or to optimise reservoir development processes will also aid in addressing the mining issues. Headquartered in Aberdeen, UK, TenzorGEO was founded with the aim of maximising economic recovery of hydrocarbons in the North Sea utilising a unique interpretation software and methodology not previously applied in the offshore domain.

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NEWS

1,174-carat diamond unearthed in Botswana

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1,174-carat diamond has been unearthed in Botswana marking the second massive diamond to be found in the country in the space of a few weeks. The rare rock was recovered at the Karowe diamond mine last month and presented to the government in a ceremony on Wednesday.

“This is the third diamond of more than 1,000 carats found at the site, and it will now be made into “valuable collections of top colour polished diamonds,” Canadian mining firm Lucara Diamond said. The diamond is larger than a 1,098-carat stone also found in Botswana in June, which was believed to be the world’s third-largest diamond.

Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi attended a ceremony on Wednesday to view the stone.

Naseem Lahri, the managing director of Lucara Botswana, said its unearthing “is history in the making, for us and Botswana as well.” The stone is “a clivage gem of variable quality with significant domains of high-quality white gem material,” Lucara said in the press release.

In 2019, the firm discovered what is believed to be the second-biggest diamond in history -- a staggering 1,758-carat stone -- at the Karowe mine.

At present, the largest diamond ever recorded is the 3,106-carat Cullinan Diamond, found in South Africa in 1905.

The Cullinan was subsequently cut into smaller stones, some of which form part of British royal family’s crown jewels.

Rithmik closes US $1.2M to commercialize “AI-First” mobile mining analytics

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urasian Resources announced that it has submitted an Action Pledge to strengthen its commitment to eliminate child labour in the cobalt mining sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where UNICEF has estimated that close to 40,000 children are engaged in mining activities.

Rithmik Solutions, whose mission is building the world’s most advanced and reliable analytics for mobile mining equipment, today announced the closing of a US$1.2M investment led by Chrysalix Venture Capital and joined by Fonds Ecofuel.

The funding will accelerate the commercialization of the company’s flagship product, Rithmik Asset Health Analyzer (AHA), which has been in development for the past three years and is currently undergoing real-time onsite trials in Alberta, Quebec and Zambia. Rithmik AHA applies a multitiered machine learning approach to increase mobile equipment uptime while reducing maintenance costs and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Mining companies typically spend anywhere from 20%-50% of their annual operating budgets on equipment maintenance, and lost production from unplanned downtime has an even bigger financial impact.

“We were impressed by the Rithmik team’s deep technical experience in the space of mobile mining equipment data, across equipment types and OEM brands, and that experience has strongly resonated with their early customers,” said Alicia Lenis, Vice President at Chrysalix Venture Capital, an industrial innovation fund. “And when we looked at their approach, which is a scalable AI-first solution that accounts for the extreme variability in mines, we see significant potential that they can crack this tough problem for mining companies.”

Rithmik can reveal an issue with equipment before it causes significant damage. “Our results to date have included detection hours to months in advance of major failures in multiple types and brands of mobile mining equipment across vastly different geographies. Our

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system has also proven able to uncover chronic inefficiencies along with gaps and inconsistencies in the data itself,” said Amanda Truscott, CEO at Rithmik.

“Better-running equipment burns less fuel,” she added.

Richard Cloutier, Managing Partner at Fonds Ecofuel, an early-stage fund committed to clean tech investments, further emphasized the green aspect of Rithmik’s technology. “Since the Fonds Ecofuel is always looking for cutting-edge innovations that reduce GHG emissions, we have been extremely impressed with Rithmik’s latest developments in the mining sector and are happy to support a new portfolio company that provides solutions to climate change.”

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NEWS

Kenya to conduct fresh census of all small scale miners

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he government of Kenya has announced plans to conduct out a census of all small scale miners in a bid to get rid of those operating illegally and curb smuggling of minerals that denies the country revenues.

A significant share of the minerals unearthed by informal miners are smuggled out and not captured in state records The mining sector contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) is less than one percent, highlighting smuggling woes facing the country’s vast mineral wealth.

Mineral Rights Board (MRB) chairman Stephen Kuria said the department will audit the miners and license them at the county level. The audit has already mapped out counties that have the highest number of small-scale miners like Kakamega, Vihiga, Kwale and Kitui to start the audit.

“The move that targets an estimated half a million workers in the smallscale mining industry is aimed at guarding against proliferation of illegal miners and brokers, blamed for the smuggling of minerals into neighbouring countries like Uganda and Tanzania. If we do not digitise everything is about understanding the data, market who are the buyers and the miners? How do we get there? Mr Kuria said.

Billions of dollars’ worth of gold is being smuggled out of Africa every year through the United Arab Emirates in the Middle East – a gateway to markets in Europe, the United States and beyond Kenya has proven deposits of titanium, gold and coal. But the country’s mining sector is a relatively small contributor to national output.

Nigeria to launch own made barite

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he Federal Government of Nigeria is set to launch own made barite.

Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Mr Olamilekan Adegbite disclosed the plans and said the move aims to explore expanding mining operations in the country. Mr Olamilekan said that the Ministry has succeeded in achieving the development of barite from

Data from the Kenya National Bureau (KNBS) shows that the country earned Sh29.09 billion from the sector in 2019, a fall from Sh30.85 billion the previous year. The move to audit the small-scale miners marks the latest bid to clamp on firms and individuals in the industry amid growing concerns on irregular exports of gold and gemstones.

The Ministry revoked licences of dozens of firms and individuals on May 26, citing non-compliance. The withdrawal of the permits comes at a time Parliament is probing 27 entities that exported minerals valued at Sh140 million in the year to June 2019.

mandate to prioritize and develop seven strategic minerals in the Mining Roadmap, the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development is set to launch its made in Nigeria Barite soon. We have succeeded in achieving the development of barite from extraction, milling and bagging stages to support local industries, as well as for export. Nigeria bagged barite has “Proudly Nigeria’ as its logo,” said Adegbite.

Effort was being made to update and upgrade ICT infrastructure to enable the ministry connect its 10 agencies, and the upgrade would ensure that all data of royalties paid and funds received were properly monitored and uploaded to the ministry’s server for online access.

extraction, milling and bagging stages to support local industries, as well as for export, adding that Nigeria bagged barite has “Proudly Nigeria” as its logo.

“The Ministry of Mines and Steel Development in its bid to develop the value chain of mineral resources in the country and achieve its Presidential

Earlier this month, Nairametrics reported that the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Olamilekan Adegbite, disclosed the need to seek enhanced synergy between the ministry and other relevant sister agencies, in a bid to sanitize and grow the Mines and Steel sector for enhanced national prosperity and sustainable development.

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NEWS

Ethiopia earns US $681M from mining sector

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thiopia has secured 681 million U.S. dollars from the mining sector in the just concluded Ethiopian Fiscal Year 2020/2021. The state media outlet Fana Broadcasting Corporate (FBC) made the announcement and said that the income generated from the mining sector has shown dramatic increase compared to the revenue gained in previous fiscal years.

In the 2019/2020 fiscal year, the country had earned US $207million from the mining sector. Mining is important to the economy of Ethiopia as a diversification from agriculture. Currently, mining comprises only 1% of GDP. Gold, gemstones (diamonds and sapphires), and industrial minerals are important commodities for the country’s exportoriented growth strategy. Tantalum mining has also been profitable.

Other mineral resources are platinum,

in recent years to boost its revenue from the key sector. This includes establishing several gold trading centers as Ethiopia seeks to boost its income from the mining sector. Gold has been exploited since ancient times. Large ore based gold mines are the Lega Dembi (the largest mine in the Sidamo province of southern Ethiopia and Sakaro, which have been mined by private companies; the amount of gold produced by these mines is reported to be about 5 tons per year.

niobium, copper, nickel, manganese and molybdenum; marble is found extensively in most parts of the country.

The east African country has made several key reforms in the mining sector

The east African country has also undertaken a mass sensitization campaign that includes all relevant stakeholders to combat contraband mining activities that have been partly blamed for Ethiopia achieving low mining revenues in previous years.

Goldstone receives approval for Ghana mine as it avoids the issue of, in aggregate, 20-million new warrants to subscribe for ordinary shares at an exercise price of 3p each, as well as the payment of interest at a rate of 14% on the principal amounts outstanding, Goldstone said on July 12.

The West Africa-focused gold exploration and development company remains on track to achieve targeted production of 25 000 oz of gold for the first eight months of production, with the first gold pour expected to occur in the third quarter of this year.

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oldstone Resources has received approval from the Minerals Commission to start irrigation and leaching of ore placed on the heap leach pad at its Homase mine, in Ghana.

This follows a reached settlement agreement for its 20 outstanding unsecured bonds of US $50 000 each with the holders of the bonds, who have subsequently agreed to the full and final settlement of the bonds in exchange for the issue of, in aggregate, 12-million new

ordinary shares of 1p each in the capital of the company. Verbal agreement has been received from BCM Investments, which will be allotted its 3.6-million bond settlement shares immediately following signature of a written bond settlement agreement.

Settlement of the bonds on the terms of the bond settlement agreement is deemed to be in the best interests of the company and all shareholders,

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The company has agreed with Asia Investments Management Services (AIMS) a further extension to the timing of payment of interest on the $3-million secured gold loan announced in June.

AIMS has now agreed with Goldstone that all unpaid and accrued interest associated with the gold loan must be repaid by August 31. Interest will continue to accrue on the outstanding interest payment at the default rate of 17% until payment is made.

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NEWS

Namibia High Court validates marine mining project permit

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amibia’s High Court has declined to invalidate a mining license awarded to Namibian Marine Phosphate (NMP) for a proposed marine phosphate-mining project within the Benguela current marine ecosystem on the outer shelf to the south west of Walvis Bay. This follows a Windhoek High Court judge, Harald Geier’s who invalidated the project’s permit and said the company did not correctly apply for an environmental clearance certificate which it needed to commence test mining and mining.

Namibian fishing industry organizations, including the Confederation of Namibia Fishing Associations, Namibia Hake Association, and Midwater Trawling Association, had petitioned the High Court to declare NMP’s mining permit ML170 invalid. The mining license was issued by the Minister of Mines and Energy in July 2011.

The organizations had argued locating the marine phosphate mining, or “Sandpiper Project,” within the Benguela would be a threat to marine life, as they argued the proposed site is an important center of marine biodiversity and marine food production. The proposed mine “would cause the removal of typical spawning substrate, the removal of foraging substrate, interference with fish

behavior, and the associated implications for the commercial fishing industry,” according to a statement issued by the organizations. The fishing industry, the organizations said, “was a cornerstone of Walvis Bay, where 70 percent of the industries located in the town where directly or indirectly dependent on the fishing industry.”

However, the High Court found although NMP failed to obtain an environmental clearance certificate (ECC) before carrying out any mining activity, the company had obtained the mining permit under Namibia’s applicable law and “the terms contained in the schedule, the mining license shall endure for a period of 20 years reckoned from the date of acceptance of the terms and conditions referred to in the notice, unless it is abandoned in terms of section 54 of the Minerals Act, or canceled in terms of section 55 of the said act, [and] neither of the aforementioned eventualities – as already stated – have occurred.”

NMP said it has collected adequate scientific facts and in situ data from ML170 that show the proposed scale of mining operations intended will have no significant impact on the marine environment or ecosystem, and as such, will not have a detrimental impact the commercial fishing industry. That finding

has been independently verified by Namibia’s environmental commissioner, according to NMP. “I do, however, need to confirm and clarify in this regard further that the ‘underlying’ ‘authorization’, i.e. the rights conferred on NMP upon the granting of ML 170, are in my view not affected by my findings in the sense that I decline to declare them invalid,” High Court Judge Justice Harold Geier said in his judgment.

“The effect of my finding would, however, be that NMP is currently precluded by the prohibition inherent in sections 57 as read with those contained in section 27 of the Environmental Management Act to undertake any ‘listed activity’- until such time that it obtains an ECC.” The ‘listed activity’ includes mining and quarrying activities. NMP welcomed the ruling and said its shareholders, legal team, and management “now look forward to developing what is an extremely promising project for Namibia.”

“NMP is in agreement with the High Court’s ruling that a ‘listed activity’, as defined under the Environmental Management Act, Act 7 of 2007, may only be undertaken once the necessary environmental clearance certificate has been obtained,” the company’s statement said.

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NEWS

Zambia court halts liquidation proceedings over Vedanta Resources mines

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Zambian court has halted liquidation proceedings over Vedanta Resources mines.

The court stayed hearing by a stateappointed provisional liquidator for splitting up Vedanta Resources’ Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) unit and selling the assets. Vedanta and Zambia are arbitrating in London over the KCM dispute, which began when the government accused Vedanta of failing to honour licence conditions, including promised investment. The company had previously denied that KCM broke the terms of its licence. Vedanta has been locked in a dispute with the Zambian government since May 2019, when the

Zambian government handed control of the mine to a liquidator. Legal arguments over the case have been heard in both Zambia and South Africa.

The stay on KCM liquidation proceedings has been granted to allow Vedanta and the Zambian government to proceed to arbitration, Vedanta said in a filing to the Singapore Stock Exchange. Metals and mining firm Vedanta Resources held a 79.4% stake in KCM while the Zambian government through its state mining investment firm ZCCM-IH holds the remaining 20.6%.

“Zambian Court of Appeal has granted a stay in respect of any hearing of the

merits of the Winding Up Petition and Amended Petition in respect of Konkola Copper Mines plc pending a decision in respect of the arbitration proceedings between Vedanta and ZCCM Investments Holdings plc (ZCCM),” said Vedanta.

“The arbitral tribunal has recently granted a partial final Award in which it has ruled that ZCCM has breached, and is in continuing breach of, the dispute resolution provisions in the shareholders’ agreement between amongst others ZCCM, Vedanta and the Government of Zambia,” the company added.

Namibia cancels 2021 Mining Expo slated for September

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amibia will no longer be hosting the 2021 Mining Expo which was scheduled to take place from September 1 to 2, in a physical or virtual format following the COVID-19 Pandemic. The country is experiencing a devastating 3rd wave of COVID-19, which is only expected to peak in September 2021, said Veston Malango, chief executive officer of Namibia Chamber of Mines. According to Malango, the chamber extensively investigated and consulted with stakeholders and exhibitors on the possibility of hosting a virtual mining expo in place of a physical event.

from consultations, the chamber has also decided not to proceed with a virtual mining expo,” said Malango.

The chamber will still be hosting a virtual mining conference instead on Sept. 1, according to Malango. Details “A physical event in these challenging times will thus not be possible, and the safety of the mining sector, stakeholders, exhibitors, and visitors is of utmost importance to the chamber. After careful and due consideration of the findings

of the conference and a program will be communicated in due course, he said, adding that the chamber looks forward to engaging in fruitful discussions with all stakeholders, media, and the general public at the event.

IronRidge Resources to host investor webinar

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021 has been a transformational period for IronRidge Resources, an Africa focused minerals exploration company with a significant lithium pegmatite discovery in Ghana, extensive gold portfolios in Côte d’Ivoire and a potential new gold province discovery in Chad.

The Company is pleased to announce that Vincent Mascolo, CEO, will be presenting at an investor webinar, jointly hosted by Turner Pope Investments and Vox Markets. The event will be held on Wednesday, 14th July at 3.30pm (GMT).

Please register your interest at:

https://voxmarkets.brand.live/c/vox-markets-and-turner-pope-webinar-wednesdayjuly-14th For real-time access to the Company’s investor presentations, videos and updates please join via any of IronRidge’s social media channels: Twitter: https://twitter.com/aim_irr LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/ironridge-resources-ltd YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4G-Ufl7tHFcgkokwp-sK-w Mining Review Africa profile: https://www. miningreview.com/tag/ironridge-resources AIM announcements: https://www.ironridgeresources.com.au/aim-announcements Proactive Investors: https://www.proactiveinvestors.co.uk/ LON: IRR/IronRidge-Resources-Ltd/timeline/videos

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We understand how it is important to e�ciently extract and process precious metals and minerals.

PROCESS + PROTECT You save valuable resources while keeping your employees and the environment safe.

Improve your processes with our comprehensive portfolio of measuring instruments:

Liquiline CM44: Versatile transmitter and Memosens pH sensors ensure reliable measurement and safe calibration in the lab.

Contact us: Email: info.za.sc@endress.com Tel: +27 11 262 8000 Web: www.endress.com

Micropilot FMR6x: The 80 GHz radar with Heartbeat Technology takes the pulse of your plant and increases productivity.

Promag 55 S: The electromagnetic flowmeter provides high abrasion resistance and integrated solids content diagnostics.

NEWS

RP Global and OOLU Solar partner to launch Westa.Solar, a new commercial & industrial solar venture in West Africa Westa.Solar has delivered its first 500kWp solar PPA project to Petrichor Industries in Nigeria

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P Global, a leading renewable energy developer and investor, and OOLU, leader in energy access solutions in West Africa, announce the launch of Westa.Solar, a Commercial & Industrial (C&I) Solar Venture in West Africa, and the deployment of its first solar PPA project in Nigeria.

The 500kWp solar installation will supply Petrichor Industries with almost a quarter of its energy needs as well as improve its resilience against frequent power outages. It will also enable the company to minimize its reliance on diesel generators, thereby reducing both its overall energy costs and carbon footprint. The project was jointly financed

by Westa.Solar and a grant from the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Development Office.

Over the next few years, Westa.Solar intends to develop and implement a large pipeline of C&I solar projects in West Africa, supporting business development and increasing penetration of renewable energies across the country.

Located in Kano State, northern Nigeria, Petrichor Industries specializes in the manufacture of packaging products.

Like many businesses in Nigeria, growth opportunities are constrained by expensive electricity tariffs and an unstable grid, with the frequent stop-start of power outages limiting production and increasing operating and maintenance costs.

Westa.Solar’s customized solutions provide Petrichor with the security of a low cost, robust and reliable energy source fully adapted to meet its needs.

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Kolawole Akinboye, Westa.Solar Nigeria Country Manager explained: “This is the first of what we hope to be many solar power projects for C&I companies in Nigeria. This Solar PV installation is projected to help Petrichor generate savings of over N235 million over the next 10 years and support its long-term growth ambitions.

Our solar hybrid systems are a great solution for businesses with high energy needs. Ranging from 50kW to 5MW, our systems are fully customized to meet client demand. By providing a reliable supply at a competitive price we offer greater financial predictability and contribute to decarbonizing the Nigerian energy mix.”

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PRODUCT & TECH

Beka Schreder announces the launch of the SOLARPOLE, the vertical aesthetic solar solution for road and urban applications.

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he SOLARPOLE offers an integrated aesthetic option to fully suit your off-grid solar lighting requirements in outdoor residential and public applications.We are proud to be driving the market with the solution of vertical solar panels and integrated battery system to provide our customers with a range of solar products that will suit their needs.

Combined with the ZIYA luminaire, the SOLARPOLE provides a reliable lighting solution for roads applications with a high Ingress Protection level (IP 65) that withstands high ambient temperatures and vandalism (IK 10). The ZIYA range is a sustainable off-grid performer with a superior lumen/watt ratio.

The popular KAZELLE post top luminaire completes the offering for urban requirements with a minimalistic and modern look. The cylindrical solar module is revolutionary. The vertical solar panels use a cylindrical module to achieve a better aesthetical design, as well as excellent performance in wind resistance.

The photovoltaic process is optimized by the efficient vertical module with six pieces of slim mono-crystalline solar panel technology to maximise solar energy. This in turn offers the best energy storage options and autonomy available on the market with our range of battery options, namely Lithium and the new SuperCapacitor. This SuperCapacitor removes the depth of discharge (DOD) issues, and furthermore offers extended life and discharge cycles.

Controlling the whole system and using this solar energy by programming the Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) charge controllers, protects and optimizes the system from any internal and external factors, like thermal environmental changes when charging the batteries.

Key advantages of the SOLARPOLE include: • Designed and manufactured in South Africa • Designed to operate reliably at a high light output over a 12 to 14 hour period • It has sufficient autonomy to cater for up to two continuous overcast or rainy days, to continue its reliable night operation • Cylindrical integrated solar components • Theft and vandal resistant • Specifically engineered for high aesthetics and wind resistance • Various battery technologies available to meet specific customer requirements The SOLARPOLE is your vertical solar lighting solution with latest innovation and technology.

Whether used for car parks, squares and pedestrian areas, urban and residential streets, bike and pedestrian paths or security lighting, the SOLARPOLE offers the ideal off-grid LED lighting solution.

For further enquiries, contact Grant Combrink at 011 238 0000 or g.combrink@beka-schreder. co.za

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PRODUCT & TECH

Juniper Systems Limited Launches CT8X2 Rugged Tablet

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uniper Systems Limited, a manufacturer of rugged handheld computers and GNSS receivers, today announced the launch of its new Cedar™ CT8X2 Rugged Tablet, running on the Android™ 10 operating system.

Increased processing power, RAM, and storage are featured, while it retains the same ruggedness and powerful GNSS functionality of its predecessor, the CT8 Rugged Tablet.

The CT8X2 runs on the powerful Android™ 10 mobile operating system.

Plus, it is a certified Google Mobile Services (GMS) device, providing users with access to the software and services needed by field workers.

Now available throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa (EMEA), and India, the CT8X2 Rugged Tablet is powered by an octa-core Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ CPU, which delivers a quick and responsive user experience, even when running demanding applications.

‘With decades of experience in the rugged tablet industry, we understand that meeting users’ demands is about more than simply providing a handheld computer’, said Mr. Simon Bowe, managing director of Juniper Systems Limited, based near Birmingham, U.K. ‘It’s about providing a superior computing experience and support for every user’.

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Larger files and data-intensive tasks can be completed with ease thanks to the tablet’s 4GB of RAM. Onboard storage has been increased to 64GB for data and files, providing plenty of space for applications and eliminating the need to constantly offload data.

These advancements in performance have been provided while maintaining an affordable price.

The CT8X2 Rugged Tablet is rated to IP67, with built-in resistance to water and dust (no dust covers needed). It’s perfect for use in extreme environments, including severe heat and cold, rain, snow, and high humidity.

‘The performance advancements and GNSS accuracy make the CT8X2 our best Cedar rugged tablet to date’, said Mr. Bowe. ‘Its ruggedness makes it versatile and a practical choice for many different industries, all at a budgetfriendly price’.

More information about the Cedar CT8X2 Rugged Tablet can be found here.

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PRODUCT & TECH

New thermal battery and solar tech help mining companies get rid of diesel 247Solar launches HeatStorE™, a long duration thermal battery made for adding more renewables to remote mining operations, industrial and grid solutions than is feasible with conventional batteries

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robust new battery from 247Solar Inc., a spinoff of MIT, operates almost like an electrochemical battery but has significant advantages at longer durations. The basic principle of the thermal battery is rather simple.

Electric resistance coils heat an inexpensive thermal storage medium (silica sand) using low-cost excess electricity, e.g., from intermittent solar and wind power sources. Energy is stored as ultra-high temperature heat (up to 1000°c/1850°c) – at a fraction of the cost of batteries. Whenever needed, a specialized turbine reconverts the heat to electricity. Uniquely, the innovative turbine can do this without combustion, as atmospheric-pressure air is passed through the “Thermal Storage” and drives the “Turbine” to generate electricity.

By adding a combustor, the battery can also produce even more dispatchable backup power, ideally using an emissionfree fuel such as green hydrogen in the combustion process. This is also how the battery can provide spinning reserves. The innovative approach is designed to replace traditional diesel gensets at remote mines, as it provides 24/7 highly reliable operation with higher renewables penetration, significant fuel savings, and dramatically lower lifetime operating costs.

without gensets. This is what they need long-term storage for.”

“In the mining industry, we see more and more off-grid microgrids that incorporate short-term energy storage systems”, explains Thomas Hillig, managing director of the microgrid consultancy THEnergy.

In remote mining, reliability is critical to uninterrupted operations, and turbines are well known for their high reliability and low maintenance costs.

“HeatStorE combines two inventions that are part of 247Solar’s Ultra-High Temperature Technology Platform, the 247Solar Heat2Power™ Turbine and the 247Solar Thermal Storage System”, points out Bruce Anderson, 247Solar’s CEO. “Combining these two proven technologies ensures that HeatStorE is also extremely reliable. We expect more than 20-year operations with little or no performance degradation.”

“As the market is maturing, we see that miners are ready for the next step and increase the share of renewables – in the long run also 24/7-operations

Considering that the new approach consists of a factory-made, shipping-size container filled with sand that is heated by resistance coils, its robustness is no

surprise. Neither are its low O&M costs.

The combination of robustness and lifecycle cost advantages will enable mining companies to implement new power plant concepts with fewer diesel engines – ultimately without any at all.

The new thermal battery can also be used in applications other than mining. In community microgrids, off-grid villages or island grids, HeatStorE is ideally suited to provide operational flexibility and resilience. The typical storage duration is in the range of 4-20 hours, which also allows for substantial gridsupport and load shifting. Interestingly, the cost per kWh drops rapidly with duration. Behind the meter in industrial applications, the battery can also convert otherwise-wasted hot process exhaust to electricity.

www.fmdrc-Zambia.com

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FEATURE

Bucket elevator conveying system;

the choice for materials handling T

o build and run a successful mining operation has never been more complicated – sustainability, workforce management, supply chain constraints, and community engagement are constant challenges. Those needs come on top of the standard finance, procurement, inventory and maintenance needs shared by all operators. And the future looks even more challenging.

Moving a large copper or gold ore out of a vertical mineshaft can be a challenging job. But with material handling equipment such as bucket conveyors, the challenge can easily be surmounted. Bucket elevators serve to vertically transport large masses of bulk material to different heights without creating dust, then dump it. The height to be overcome is frequently more than 200 meters. The weights to be moved are enormous.

as well as the desired height that it must travel, but they are reliable and efficient if made correctly. They perform best when moving dry, light, or powder material and are typically not used to move wet or sludge-like substances, as any buildup in the buckets will cause discharging issues.

Bucket conveyors are a popular choice for vertical conveying and find many uses in the biomass, cement, glass, mining, power generation, and paper industries to name only a few. They keep product contained in discrete units, unlike screw conveyors that homogenize the product and excel in handling abrasive, freeflowing aggregate.

Bucket conveyors are non-accumulating and come in C, S, Z, or vertical

Buckets elevators consist of a belt to carry the buckets and transmit the pull; Means to drive the belt; Accessories for loading the buckets or picking up the material, for receiving the discharged material, for maintaining the belt tension and for enclosing and protecting the elevator.

How they work Bucket conveyors move products (typically aggregate or bulk) vertically via reciprocating buckets. The conveyor is made of an interconnected loop of troughs/buckets that stay level when moving from horizontal to vertical, preventing their contents from spilling out.

The conveyor is loaded with material at the front, or “boot”, and each bucket automatically deposits at the end of the run, also known as the discharge. This process is a fast and automatic method of vertical conveying, as the same buckets which pick up material are used to deposit it.

The design of these machines depends heavily on the material being transported

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arrangements, depending on the type.

They can also be used horizontally but are best suited for inclines and vertical runs, as most are designed with verticality in mind. Some examples of bucket conveyor applications are in coal and ash handling equipment, grain elevators, and sugar conveyors.

There are three common bucket elevator designs used in bulk material handling: Centrifugal Discharge Elevator – This is the typical style of elevator used in many grain handling facilities. The elevator buckets discharge the grain freely, using centrifugal force. The grain is flung out of the bucket into the discharge spout at the top of the elevator. The most common style of agricultural elevator bucket is the “CC” style. This style can be recognized by the four breaks in the inside bottom of the bucket, straight sides and the presence of high sides or “ears”.

Continuous Discharge Elevator – This style of bucket elevator is used typically to discharge sluggish and non-free flowing materials; the elevator buckets discharge on top of each other. To achieve the required centrifugal force, a speed of around 6 metres (20 feet) per second is used. Common styles of elevator buckets used are the MF, HF, LF, and HFO due to their “V” style, among other attributes.

Most positive discharge bucket elevators available in the marketplace today are driven by metal chains. In these elevators, a series of overlapping buckets are attached at intervals to a pair of metal chains. While metal chain designs vary from manufacturer, many designs incorporate sprockets with a solid bearing pin and rollers for guiding and gearing purposes.

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Engineering and manufacturing of: • Round Steel Link Chains • Conveyor Chains • Central Chains • Mechanical Chains • Sprockets, Wheels and Components

Telephone: (+39) 039.5320739 Email: cicsa@cicsa.com

FEATURE

Industry Benefits of a Layflat Hose

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layflat hose is a reinforced PVC hose which can collapse upon itself for storage purposes. These types of hoses are primarily used for irrigation and water supply. However, they are also popular among industries such as mining, construction, and firefighting. This is due to their flexible, hardwearing and lightweight properties.

Lay flat hoses are often constructed with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) with a combination of nitrile rubber. Since these hoses are developed keeping in mind enhanced inner reinforcement, extrusion in them is created with the help of a unique method called weave method. Further, by making use of a rubber cover, the hose is bonded much strongly to ensure reinforcement.

Lay-Flat hoses come in various diameters from 2” (50mm) and up to 8” (200mm), as well as various pressure ratings from PN2 to PN16.

There are two main types of a layflat hose: the heavy duty layflat hose and the medium duty layflat hose. As their names suggest, the heavy duty layflat hose is specially adapted to withstand the stresses of demanding use, while the medium duty layflat hose is the perfect tool for less challenging work.

A layflat hose can be put to a multitude of other uses. You will often see them attached to a fire engine. They are great for fighting fires, but can perform equally well in cleaning up a flood area when used alongside a water pump.

As the water pump sucks water up, the layflat hose is used to discharge the same water into a safe area away from the flood. If lever lock couplings are also used as a way of joining several hoses together, the distance from the flood area to the area of discharge can be increased. This use of a layflat hose is

Resistance – the combination of woven yarn reinforcements and an inseparably fused inner and outer wall makes these hoses resistant to most oxidising and reducing agents as well as diluted acids and alkalis.

The features also help to avoid the onset of rotting and helps avoid abrasion – this means the lifespan of a layflat hose is very long.

We can also use layflat hose as an over sleeve for protection due to its makeup. common in pit mines.

Similarly, they are often used in fracking when large quantities of water may need to be transported over rough and uneven ground. They offer much easier handling than a pipe system and are usually the go to choice for water contractors.

Another popular use for the layflat hose is as a garden tool as they can be easily manipulated to reach anywhere in the garden, and are light enough to be used on a daily basis.

Another area where a layflat hose can be well utilised is that of flood clean up, when used in tandem with a water pump.

The water pump sucks up water from the flooded area, and then a layflat hose is used to discharge this to a safe area or flood plain that is often several hundred metres away. Layflat hoses can be joined together quickly and easily with lever lock couplings – these allow you to create the perfect length of hose for the task you need it for.

There are some key features of layflat hose, these include: Flexibility – the PVC that our layflat hoses are made from means they are extremely flexible and resistant to kinks this allows for easy compression when not in use. Therefore layflat hose is ideal for storage and transporting as well as being user friendly.

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Lightweight – although layflat hoses are strong and durable, the way they are made means they are lightweight and as such easy to use and transport. Layflat hoses have a collapsible design which means that storing and getting them out is easy and simple. This means they are ideally suited to irrigation in industries such as farming or construction.

Although these are quality tested, you should take precautionary measure not to deliberately bring harm or damage to the hose. It is important to ensure heavy vehicles are not driven over the lay flat hoses. If you need to lay these hose across the road or your paths, you must make sure hose ramps are used.

As much as possible, lay these hoses straight. If you bend it around the corners, the pressure of the liquid or water may reduce and there may be a breakage of the layer over a period of time. If the hose is frozen do not attempt to roll it up. The sharp ice particles can cause damage to the hose. When hose is used for certain substances or systems such as foam, you should ensure you rinse off the hose thoroughly with clean water.

Finally it is also important to ensure you buy lay flat hoses from reputed and distinguished suppliers, wholesalers of lay flat hoses to guarantee quality.

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WELLMAN 300 FLEXIBLE RISING MAIN

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All synthetic materials of construction mean that there is zero corrosion and no scale build up. The high grade polyurethane lining and cover material is resistant to hydrocarbon fuels, many chemicals, ozone and UV, abrasion and microbial attack.

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The textile reinforcement is designed to swell under operating conditions up to 15%. This feature gives a nominal increase in riser diameter, reducing friction loss and improving hydraulic performance.

SAFETY RATIO

The safety ratio between ultimate tensile strength and maximum recommended load is 2.5 : 1.

CABLE ATTACHMENT STRAPS

On large diameter risers, two straps are fitted for applications with heavier cables and other ancillary equipment such as high and low level monitoring sensors.

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• Groundwater abstraction – potable an brackish • Water supply wells in R.O. desalination plant app.

• Food processing • Irrigation / Agriculture • Environmental monitoring • Mine de-watering • Land stabilization • Solar power systems • Offshore rig fire water and service pumps

WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW DISTRIBUTORS. JOIN OUR TEAM. We are expanding our network of distributors.

We offer continuous training, with factory visits, technical product information and sales arguments; accompanied by the follow-up of our Region Managers. We are committed to continuous technological investments to always keep our products with the best quality and design.

FMDRC_Mining.indd 1

C O N TA C T sales@mandals.com +47 38 27 24 00 Nordre Banegate 26, 4515 Mandal, Norway

01/07/2021 22:33

factories, buildings, workshops, offices, trucks and vehicles, equipment, and even overalls.

SAFETY

DEGREASER

Prepsol is pH neutral, making it safe for the user, while reducing the risk of corrosion on metal, paint, seals, stickers and other components.

It is safe to use on canvas, carpets, stainless steel, aluminium, chrome, brass, painted and bare metal, plastic, all stone, drains, seals, gaskets, and rubber.

PREPSOL is a product of ALLIJAM, a South African company based in Johannesburg. We manufacture and distribute motor vehicle, domestic and industrial cleaners throughout Africa.

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APPLICATION Apply through a pressure washer, by brush, broom, mop or trigger spray.

UR flagship product

(registered trade mark 81/7763) has been specifically formulated to clean away mud, grease, oil and grime.

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The first water-based degreaser developed in South Africa, it is an industry benchmark cleaner developed specifically for the mining industry, and is an efficient, environmentally friendly product.

This renowned all-purpose degreaser is gentle but effective, making it ideal for use across many different applications.

PREPSOLS MANY OTHER DEGREASING APPLICATIONS INCLUDE: ENGINES

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Prepsol ccan be used on most washable surfaces at mine sites, from large mining trucks, electric rope shovels, rotary drill rigs, rock drills, motor graders, large wheel loaders, draglines, wheel tractor scrapers and underground mining loaders.

It is also the optimal degreaser for

Bulk sales available for wholesalers and retailers, with smaller-quantity sales direct to consumers.

Allijam’s considerable expertise is available to assist with purchasing, delivery and training on the product, to ensure clients enjoy the full benefit of its potential.

“Industry benchmark cleaner developed specifically for the mining industry”

Contact us for more information,

we look forward to doing business with you.

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COVER STORY

Customized Grinding Mill Liner Solutions

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here are many important factors that determine the performance of wear parts and liners in a grinding mill, two key factors are the materials they are made from and their design.

ME Elecmetal analyzes customer applications to determine the ideal combination of design and materials to achieve the optimal wear performance and throughput for their equipment, whether it is an AG, SAG, ball, rod or tower mill.

Then, the ME Elecmetal team works in step with customers to implement and validate the solution. ME Elecmetal works closely with operators and plant maintenance crews to monitor wear performance and production rates, customizing each liner for the best possible performance. All variables are considered in this analysis — from the characteristics of the ore and the customer’s operative strategies, to their production goals

ME Elecmetal’s liner designs and materials are developed to deliver maximum wear life and throughput in both high impact and high abrasion applications, regardless of the type of mill. ME Elecmetal offers a wide range of complementary services including condition monitoring to further improve efficiency and provide customers with real time information.

ME Elecmetal’s innovative material and liner designs deliver proven, world class performance, while minimizing costly reline and downtime. ME Elecmetal wear parts are manufactured according to the highest quality standards and stateof-the-art technology and engineering, resulting in the most reliable lowest total-cost-of-ownership-solutions for customers.

ME Elecmetal is always working on the next generation of alloys to increase wear performance and grind efficiency. The company analyzes customer’s operating conditions, and cross reference that information with its global knowledge base and the customer’s production goals, to develop an optimized solution.

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COVER STORY

ME FIT System®: Fully Integrated Technology from ME Elecmetal ME Elecmetal’s delivers integral solutions for grinding and crushing applications through the ME FIT System® programs for grinding and crushing. FIT stands for Fully Integrated Technology. The programs involve a team approach to examine customer needs and develop customized solutions to address specific challenges and add demonstrable value to customer operations.

The ME FIT System programs take advantage of ME Elecmetal’s highest standards in quality, manufacturing, service and logistics — along with the multidisciplinary team who brings it all together.

The ME Elecmetal team works as a partner with customers by understanding their needs. To accomplish this, operational data is collected, including processed tonnage, available power, down time, load levels and all other relevant information about how the

simulations and tests are conducted, so the customer can be confident the solutions in development will minimize any risks or adverse effects.

ME Elecmetal’s technical support and training goes above and beyond standard services offered by other suppliers.

These services include DEM and FEM simulation services, 3D laser scanning for wear analysis, reline optimization, continuous improvement programs and grinding circuit optimization. customer’s mills operate. ME Elecmetal measures how long media and liners last, what production levels customers are achieving and what opportunities there are for improvement in the comminution process.

Changes introduced to processes in mining can affect both current and downstream operations. At ME Elecmetal understands that every decision made is absolutely critical. Before proposing changes to customers, a series of

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VAES Philosophy VAES (Value-Added Engineering Services) is ME Elecmetal’s business philosophy. This benefits-based sales philosophy is focused on providing our customers with comprehensive, valueadded solutions for ore processing which positively impact six key operational areas: • Increased production • Greater equipment availability • Cost-effective solutions • Environmental and health protection

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About ME Long Teng Grinding Media ME Long Teng Grinding Media is a joint venture between ME Elecmetal and Long Teng Special Steel Co., Ltd — two worldwide leaders in the production and manufacture of steel consumable parts for the mining industry.

• Our facility in China is the world’s largest single site grinding ball manufacturing plant by capacity: 500,000+ MT • Our plant in Zambia is the most technologically advanced ball manufacturing facility in Africa, with over 100,000 MT installed capacity • Industry leading equipment design and process control, certified by ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS18000 • State-of-the-art lab and testing capabilities with the world’s tallest drop ball machine • •

Safety (handling, management and storage) Training

As part of VAES, the tangible benefits of every project are recorded in a report provided to customers. Through the VAES program, ME Elecmetal can help customers optimize processes, extend the lifespan of wear parts,

reduce operational risks and increase profitability. Earning the trust of customers is a priority at ME Elecmetal.

This is achieved through proposing technical solutions that offer substantial benefits with minimal risks. ME Elecmetal takes on the responsibility of growing credibility with the customer by integrating world class complementary products and services.

ME Long Teng Zambia ME Long Teng Zambia (MELTZ) has created more than 130 local jobs in Zambia through direct hire — sixty through on-site contractors and many more through off-site contractors.

MELTZ focuses on training the local staff to use the state-of-the-art machinery and technologies to produce the highest quality grinding media.

MELTZ has enhanced economic growth in Zambia, and Kalumbila in particular, by providing various business opportunities to local Zambian companies, such as scrap metal and waste management services.

• MELTZ is engaged with and involved in developing the Kalumbila local community through various Corporate Social Responsibility programs.

• MELTZ donated shipping containers to local schools, hospitals, churches and Kalumbila District Office for storage of food and medical supplies in response to the November 2019 floods that left several families homeless • The organization donates safety boots to local contractors • MELTZ supports several local small-scale farmers by purchasing fruits and vegetables used in the company canteen • MELTZ financially and economically empowers local women by awarding women’s groups contracts

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Innovative Grinding Solutions

ME Elecmetal . . . Always here when you need us

ME Elecmetal offers more than mill liners — We offer innovation, support, custom designs and valuable tools to develop a total grinding solution specific to your needs. We are your trusted partner at every stage of the optimization process to provide valuable insight based on over 100 years of experience and advanced technologies. We will help you optimize your process, reduce downtime and increase productivity, resulting in higher profits. One more thing you can count on with ME Elecmetal . . . We will ALWAYS be here when you need us!

ME Elecmetal’s products and services include:

- Grinding mill liners (castings, rubber and composite) - Grinding media (SAG, ball and grinding rods) - Crusher wear parts - Smelter ladles and slag pots - 3D laser scanning for wear analysis - Reline simulation services - 2D/3D simulation services (DEM and FEM)

ME Elecmetal Minneapolis, MN • Tempe, AZ 763-788-1651 • 480-730-7500 Email: sdevos@meglobal.com www.me-elecmetal.com

Ask Us About ME FIT Solutions

www.fmdrc-Zambia.com ME 22FIT SYSTEM | ME FIT CRUSHING | GRINDING MILL LINERS | GRIND

FEATURE

IF

At ME Elecmetal, our goal is for our YOUcustomers DON’T HAVE to meet IT, theirMAKE goals IT.

With a lack of100 raw materials and skyrocketing With years inin mining and metallurgy, ME Elecmetal is Withover over100 yearsofofexperience experience mining and metallurgy, very known forfor itsits excellence and leadership in providing ME Elecmetal your isaacompany company verywell well known excellence and leadership in providing prices, solution comes from debris. integral solutions that add value to its customers’ mining processes.

I

integral solutions that add value to its customers’ mining processes.

t’s a problem affecting everyone, from suppliers to their customers: we’re in the middle of a supply The planetary crisis behind MEshortage.

Elecmetal’s History finding aggregates has hit all sectors, mechanics, construction and doesn’t Historically, MEand Elecmetal has been a seem to have an end in sight. Prices also visionary company. Founded in 1917, change from month to month, becoming it truly revolutionized the industry unsustainable for companies already and struggling market by utilizing the orders. latest The to meet all of their jobs are there, but no one— knows technology innovation thewhen they’ll them; public private electric arcfinish furnace.

This was and clearly works risk delaying their construction a technological change that shaped sites and struggling to recover.

the way we tackled the market, seeking ongoing “Oneconstant, of the first things that renewal, came to mind about this problem was to manage which is how we continue to our materials to become more independent approach the business today. In the and not depend on third parties for 1960s, the company startedwho selling everything,” a company, handles steeldemolitions castings to manufacturers of in Belarus, tells us. “When dealing with demolitions, have a lot of railroad machinery, trucks,we pressure rubble to dispose of on-site – reinforced valves and mining companies. concrete, bricks, tiles, reinforced poles, Seven years later, the company etc. – so we asked ourselves, ‘why not successfully manufactured first and process this rubble directlythe on-site mining liner,Above catapulting reusemill them?’ all, how the do you successfully out this strategic process?” company in carry a new direction where it began to focus How did they give waste materials a and second specialize the production of life?inUsing a BF70.2 crusher impactand abrasion-resistant wear bucket to reduce the material’s size, an processing, MB-S18 screening bucket. partsadd for ore specifically They cleaned and sorted the material mill liners and crusher liners. on-site. With two attachments and one excavator, they produced quality material Today, ME Elecmetal has five themselves, all ready to be reused.

foundries in the United States, Chile and With China, a combined annual MBwith Crusher’s equipment, the rubble becomes a of keeping production inresource excess capable of 134,500 the construction site active. Even on metric tons. With our joint-venture locations where there aren’t materials facilities plant in readily(including available, ora inball areas with difficult Zambia), Elecmetal hasmanaging an access,ME or within cities while restrictions and media while being watchful annual grinding installed of noise and dust emissions. manufacturing capacity exceeding The whole process takes place on-site and 590,000 metric tons of forged transforms waste into excellent recycled grinding balls SAG and mill material. A for practical and ball economically grinding, in addition to steel rods fortime advantageous method that saves and money.

Eliminate disposal fees and secondary grinding. the cost of purchasing new materials.

Premier Product Lines

Integral Solutions Add Value

Mill Liners: ME Elecmetal is the world leader in designing and supplying highly engineered mill liners and total liner solutions for SAG, AG, ball and rod mills.

ME FIT System® is a program designed to deliver ME Elecmetal’s integral solutions for grinding and crushing applications. FIT stands for Fully Integrated Technology.

Through the ME FIT System programs, we help our customers achieve their goals by combining wear parts with technology tools, advice, training and monitoring — all of which allow us to develop

Grinding Media: ME Elecmetal designs, manufactures and supplies the highest Once the rubble can be quality“cleaned” forged steel reused for other jobs. For example, as grinding media for SAG, a foundation to construct new roads. ball and rod mills.after demolishing an Recently, in Serbia,

old commercial building, a mix of bricks, Crusher Wear Parts: and demolition reinforced concrete, materials has been ME Elecmetal offersused to construct the hardcore of all the streets in the area. wear parts for Time and the costs of transporting, makes and models of disposing, and purchasing new material primary, have beensecondary, eliminated. All thanks to the tertiary crusher and pebble MB80.3 bucket installed on the excavator already on site. crushers.

By facilitating the construction during the process to recover demolition Technology:

ME Elecmetal also offers 3D laser scanning, liner design and engineering services, discrete and finite element modeling and mill and crusher optimization services as part of our extensive service portfolio.

customized solutions to address specific challenges and add value to our customers’ operations.

materials, one helpful tool is the MB Wesorting become a partner to our Crusher grapples.

“These are customers by understanding agile and practical machines, perfect their needs.

To and accomplish this, we both for demolition when handling post-demolition materials,” data says including an collect operational Italian processed project manager.

The winningpower, tonnage, available feature of MB’s grapples is the unit’s grip down time, load levels and all other sensitivity: it allows extreme precision relevant information about how and progressively increases the closing their mills operate.

We measure force.

how long media and liners last,

Thankswhat to the interchangeable production levelsclaws they are and the 360 hydraulic rotation, they achieving and what opportunities managed larger loads and odd shapes, there are for improvement in the even in confined spaces.

comminution process.

With MB Crusher’s machines, you takesofadvantage receiveThe thesystem advantages an ethical of ME Elecmetal’s highestdemolition standards in process when recovering materials, whichmanufacturing, extends to the quality, service environment and community.

Thanks and logistics — along with the to reusing materials, companies don’t multifaceted team who bring it all have to worry about disrupting the area’s together. ecosystem.

With MB’s they are reducing vehicles travelling to and from the demolition area, and decreasing noise and dust emissions. Major steps towards the circular economy-oriented market.

23 DING www.fmdrc-Zambia.com MEDIA | CRUSHER COMPONENTS | LINER FASTENER SYSTEMS

PRODUCT

Atlas Copco ZenergiZe energy storage systems ZERO fuel consumption, ZERO CO² emissions, ZERO noise!

W

hen powered or charged by renewable sources, the ZenergiZe range of battery energy storage systems from Atlas Copco consumes zero fuel operating in island mode and produces zero CO² emissions when used as a standalone power source. At the heart of these powerful and compact units are high-density lithium-ion batteries which operate silently ensuring zero noise levels.

days of continuous operation without compromising on power and requiring virtually no maintenance. These battery energy storage systems present an ideal solution for noise-sensitive environments such as events, metropolitan construction sites, or telecoms. In addition to rental applications, these versatile units are also suitable for small businesses requiring smart power management as well as for large applications with multiple units.

Owing to significantly reduced fuel consumption and CO² emissions, this clean, quiet energy source offers a profitable and green solution to operators, reducing their Operating Expenses (OPEX) and delivering a very low total cost of ownership. The ZenergiZe units are capable of a remarkable 40,000 hours lifespan which translates to more than 5 000 cycles or over 1 600

“Our medium 10kVA to 90 kVA and large 100kVA to 1000 kVA ZenergiZe ranges are defined by optimum performance, sustainability and flexibility, taking battery energy storage systems to a whole new level,” notes David Stanford, Business Line Manager, Portable Products, at Atlas Copco Power Technique. “The units can serve as either the primary or standalone power source, replacing a

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generator in noise-sensitive areas or where fuel fumes / pollutants are not permitted. If the application dictates, they can be combined with a generator to make a hybrid solution and enable smart load management. Furthermore, by combining the units with renewable energy sources such as solar panels, 100 percent sustainability can be achieved with these systems.”

Battery energy storage systems present a simpler way to capture and store renewable energy for immediate or later use, ready for delivery at any given time, thus serving as ideal short-term solutions in applications where there is no access to grid power or where there are low load issues. Atlas Copco’s large ZenergiZe units can work in parallel with other energy storage systems and act as the ‘brain’ of a microgrid, storing and managing the power coming from the different sources and regulating the load for each of the applications associated with the microgrid.

“The fact that ZenergiZe energy storage systems have two operating modes (island and hybrid mode) allows the enduser to address any peaks in demands,” adds Stanford.

In the development of ZenergiZe, Atlas Copco has leveraged the advantages of the lithium-ion batteries namely sustainability, flexibility and usability, without compromising on power. As

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lithium-ion batteries are lighter than other technologies, these units are 70% more compact and also lighter in weight compared to traditional alternatives.

They are nevertheless capable of providing over twelve hours of power with a single charge, requiring only 1.5 hours to charge from empty to full. This weight and size reduction not only brings a ground-breaking level of versatility and usability but also facilitates transportation without the need for specialist equipment.

These energy storage systems are easy to use, scale and install.

The two models in the medium 10kVA to 90 kVa range, the ZBP and ZBE, offer rated power of 15kVA and 45kVA and energy storage capacity of 45kWh. A wide range of socket options ensure hassle-free connection to a generator.

With a small 1.5 m2 footprint, these medium range units are ideal for telecom installations in remote locations. In metropolitan construction sites, they can be used to balance out the peaks in demand and low loads.

There are four models in the large ZBC 100 to 1000 kVA energy storage system

range offering the ideal solution for demanding applications that require a constant and significant flow of electrical energy. With rated power of 100kVA and 500kVA (depending on the model), the parallel capability of this range enables

operators to scale with up to 30 ZBCs working in parallel in any power node.

The ZBC can store energy coming from different sources and manage the power supply of small residential areas.

DEGREASER PREPSOL is a water based degreaser for industrial cleaning and degreasing that has been a market leader for over 50 years.

You can trust that Prepsol is tough on oil, dirt and grime, but easy on equipment and materials.

Allijam is a South African company based in Johannesburg.

We manufacture and distribute motor vehicle, domestic and industrial cleaners throughout Africa.

We invite invite wholesalers, mines, construction companies and retailers to contact us for more information and pricing.

Tel: +27 11 614 1555

info@allijam.co.za

www.allijam.co.za

is water based is water soluble contains no acids non abrasive non flammable leaves no residue free from caustic

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Kameramainos_1.pdf 1 05/05/2021 13.42.56

High Temperature Furnace Cameras for Safety and Control

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ADVERTORIAL

Transforming the future of mining for Africa James Trevelyan, SVP, Enterprise and Emerging Marketing, Speedcast

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ining in Africa is now starting to recover from the global pandemic, with GlobalData predicting gold production in the western part of the continent will see a significant rise this year in growth. Therefore, it is imperative operators utilize the power of digital transformation to revolutionize their operations and bounce back as strongly as possible. Mining has long been an uncertain sector in Africa but coupled with the global economic downturn and the falling prices of metal and oil prices, it needs a drastic shift.

Technology is the answer With mine sites vast and spread across a large area, whether open bit or below ground, the Connected Mine builds upon the essential communication needed for day-to-day operations. It layers digital systems and applications over the top to provide a complete digital transformation.

The systems put in place can be leveraged to boost productivity of both workers and resources. Sensors placed on mining equipment and other applications enable

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ADVERTORIAL

huge amounts of data to be collected, which can then be sophistically analysed to reveal any operational bottlenecks and cost inefficiencies. Technology, such as autonomous haulage and drilling systems, has been shown to have an immediate impact, achieving higher utilization, resulting in more engine hours and more tons of material to be moved per day. Due to their programmed nature, tire life is also significantly improved with vehicle collisions and sidewall punctures being completely avoided. Analytics can also generate predictive maintenance schedules so equipment can be swiftly taken offline at a convenient time and serviced without causing the need for a major breakdown bringing operations to a stop.

Digital twin technology can transform how companies operate even further.

Using data from every device, sensor and application within the mine, it is possible to create a digital replica which is kept up to date with data flowing in from the field in real-time. This enables any proposed changes or additions to the site to be tested with a great deal of accuracy before physical on site implementation.

This technology is being adopted at a rapid rate, as operators save millions of dollars by eliminating any errors prior to installation.

Mining has long been one of the most world’s most dangerous professions. The Connected Mine drastically improves safety as the most hazardous jobs can be performed autonomously, keeping staff out of harms away. Meanwhile, work site surveillance provided via video CCTV systems and analytics play a key role in keeping employees safe, as unlike human supervisors, cameras and data processing platforms never sleep or get distracted.

The health of people living near the mine is equally important. The same surveillance and analytic capabilities enable mines to monitor their environmental impact and take pre-emptive action to prevent harm to nearby communities. Technology offers significant opportunities for mines across Africa to transform their operations and boost performance.

High-quality connectivity is essential The Connected Mine can only be successful if there is robust, reliable connectivity. This places special

requirements on the network and requires a fully managed service that can seamlessly integrate a mix of communication technologies, including microwave, Wi-Fi and satellite services.

It also needs to be intelligent and able to dynamically select the best price performance at any time to avoid stranded capacity or transmission bottlenecks.

The network must also be able to deliver extreme uptime and be highly secure to protect the sensitive information that is always being transmitted. It also needs to support critical enterprise applications such as e-learning to remote management and have installation services, field maintenance and technical support accessible worldwide.

Incorporating private LTE solutions such as the Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC), provided by Speedcast, will enable a private wireless network that can support every application and system operating within any mine, regardless of the environment or remoteness. To enable smart manufacturing, predictive maintenance, remote operations and machine-to-machine communication, a high-quality network is essential.

Success for the long term With mining starting to recover from COVID-19 in Africa, it is now a good time for operators to embrace digital transformation and the benefits it can bring. With remote management more of a priority now than ever before, it is imperative they look at incorporating the Connected Mine to totally rejuvenate their processes with increased productivity and safety.

To do this successfully, they need solutions that guarantee high quality communications and connectivity to manage all of the applications running at the mine and ensure access to the outside world for vital information, entertainment and news. This will protect the recovery of Africa’s mining industry with technology affording greater efficiency and return on investment alongside all the benefits remote management, automation and detailed insights can provide. The operators that utilize technology today, will guarantee their success for the long term and be one step ahead of their competitors at what is a crucial time for the industry.

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Amos-17 C-Band

FEATURE

Novel plastic composite pipe prevents diffusion With storage capacities of around six billion cubic metres of natural gas, RAG Austria AG is the largest gas and thus energy storage company in Austria. Delivered gas is temporarily stored in depleted natu-ral gas reservoirs. Since natural gas absorbs moisture in the reservoir, it is dried and cleaned after extraction. This produces mine water, which is pumped back into the gas storage facility. Salts and hydrocarbons dissolved in the water must not be released into the environment under any circum-stances. AGRU therefore supplied a new type of diffusion-tight piping system, the AGRU Sureline IV barrier pipe. The expert installation was carried out by RTi Austria GmbH, which specialises in the trenchless installation of pipelines.

For a clean annular gap, the diffusion-tight media pipe was cleaned with hot steam before being drawn in.

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atural gas is continuously produced throughout the year in roughly equal quantities and delivered by pipeline over sometimes very long distances. However, gas consumption varies depending on the time of year and the time of day. In order to have natural gas available flexibly when it is needed and thus to compensate for fluctu-ations in consumption, it must be stored temporarily. The subsequent use of former, depleted deposits as natural gas storage facilities is the most efficient, environmentally friendly and safest way to store energy. RAG Austria AG therefore operates one of the largest

pore storage facilities in Central Europe.

The 7Fields natural gas storage facility with a storage volume of 1.7 billion cubic metres is made up of various former gas deposits in Upper Austria and Salzburg. The facility, which is unique in Europe, has five storage stations that are con-nected to both the national and international networks via natural gas pipelines and a total of three measuring stations.

Originally, these former natural gas fields were formed more than 20 million years ago in the primordial sea of the foothills of the Alps by sandstone deposits. Over

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the course of millions of years, natural gas has penetrated the pore spaces of the sandstone and formed gas deposits there that can extend over an area of several square kilometres.

Layers of clay several 100 metres thick overlie the underground natural gas reser-voirs and thus seal them off. After the natural gas has been extracted, these cavities are used again as underground natural gas reservoirs. They offer the highest degree of natural safety and solve the space problem of temporary storage. Thus, unlike electricity, gas can be stored safely and in large quantities.

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Safe transport of environmentally hazardous media During the extraction and drying of the temporarily stored gas, mine water is produced that originates from the primordial sea and is pumped back into the deposit. RAG Austria AG pays attention to the highest environmen-tal compatibility in all work processes and was looking for a pipeline system that effectively prevents the diffu-sion of hydrocarbons from the mine water.

A steel pipeline installed a few years ago corroded due to the high salt content and had to be replaced. Conventional PE piping systems are corrosionfree, but in this case they do not offer sufficient protection against permeation of hydrocarbons through the pipe wall.

Therefore, the diffu-sion-tight AGRU Sureline IV barrier pipe from AGRU Kunststofftechnik GmbH was chosen for the new reservoir pipeline. The fully pressure-resistant plastic composite pipe was specially developed for the transport of con-taminated wastewater or chemicals through ecologically sensitive areas. It can also be used to transport drink-ing water or ultra-pure water through contaminated soils.

Its revolutionary 3-layer structure made of high-quality, resistant plastics effectively prevents creeping contamination of the soil through permeation and ensures maintenance-free operation.

The internal, stable media pipe made of point-load-resistant PE 100-RC is perma-nently corrosion-free and prevents incrustations due to smooth inner surfaces. On top of this is the diffusion-tight barrier layer made of high-performance plastic. It protects the environment from all media that are trans-ported in the pipe and must not diffuse into the surroundings under any circumstances. These can be, for ex-ample, waste water containing oil and petrol, chemical substances, fluorocarbons and other gases.

An external protective layer made of scratch-resistant PP also allows installation with alternative, trenchless installation techniques such as flush drilling, earth rocket or ploughing methods without deeper scrapes. The connection technology includes proven methods such as heated element butt welding or heated coil welding.

AGRU double containment pipe made of diffu-sion-tight Sureline IV barrier pipe (inside) and protective layer pipe Sureline III (outside).

Double pipe for double safety In order to continuously monitor the safer transport of the aggressive primordial sea water, the engineers at RAG Austria AG decided on a double-piping system with integrated leak detection. For this purpose, the me-dia-carrying Sureline IV barrier pipe was drawn into a largerdimensioned Sureline III pipe, which serves as a protective outer pipe for maximum safety. For a clean annular space, the outside of the Sureline IV barrier pipe was cleaned with hot steam during the pulling-in process. The remaining annular gap between the two pipes is intended to act as a pressureresistant containment space to prevent media leakage in the event of a leak.

Since a detection system is installed at the end of the pipe in the pump house to fully monitor the annular space, sensors immediately report any leakage.

Both the media pipe and the protective pipe can withstand full pressure in this double pipe. With the exception of the missing barrier layer, the protective pipe is identical in construction to the media pipe. This means that even in the unlikely event of a leak, the strictest environmental protection regulations are reliably complied with. The rehabilitation of the reservoir pipeline took four months.

In each case 4,800 m of Sureline IV barrier pipe in OD 140 mm SDR 17 and Sureline III pipes in OD 160 mm SDR 17 and corresponding fittings made of PE 100-RC were used. In order to remove the existing steel pipe, various

technical solutions were considered.

The most expensive solution would have been a new excavation. The most cost-effective alternative was a specially developed trenchless installation technique. The Sureline III pipe was installed trenchlessly using the flush drilling method. For this purpose, a start and target pit was excavated every 100 m. The pipe was connected to the 18 m long pipe strings by means of a trenchless connection. The 18 m long pipe strings were connected by butt welding and in the excavation pits with convenient electrofusion welding. Since the diffusion-tight Sureline IV barrier pipe had to be pulled into the Sureline III pipeline, the pipe strings could only be connected with butt welding. The finished double pipeline is designed for pressure peaks of up to 25 bar, with an operating pressure of 10 bar. The media temperature is up to 50 °C. The routing of the pipeline posed a challenge during installa-tion. With the help of a flush borehole, two streams had to be crossed at a depth of 4.5 m in a 90 m radius.

Managing Director of RTi Austria Gmbh; Bmst. Ing. Michael Griebaum is very satisfied with the technical solu-tion: “The Sureline IV barrier pipe from AGRU is the best technical solution for this challenge due to the high-est quality material. Foreman Klaus Schlagintweit is pleased with the smooth course of the project. “We were very satisfied with AGRU’s delivery, advice and welding demonstration.”

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FEATURE

Off-grid power generation for mines in remote areas Renewables Gaining Traction in Off-grid Mining Sites In a bid to reduce the cost of electricity, and as one of the means of cutting emissions, mining companies are adding renewables to complement HFOs and diesel power sources. HFOs and diesel are relatively more expensive and have been identified as sources of pollution. From what one can gather from recent projects, a hybrid power generation approach is regarded more convenient.

By Nick Barnes raditionally, heavy fuel oil (HFO) and diesel-driven generators have been the main source of power in mining projects that are located in offgrid, remote areas in Africa. However, it is hard to fail to notice that, increasingly, there is investment in renewable energy sources. Effectively, mining houses are broadening their energy sources. Just like in other regions of the world, this is gaining traction in African mining.

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It is a matter of interest to analyze three aspects: factors driving this trend, the

contemporary preferences and whether it will continue in the long-term or it is only transitory. A number of projects, which are at an advanced stage of development or have been completed, provide what can be regarded a crystal picture on these areas.

Why are mines embracing renewables?

Thus, diversifying their energy sources to include renewable sources of power as a means to achieve these two urgent objectives.

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Cost-savings Mining companies are very conscious about the impact of skyrocketing operating costs on the bottom-line, and so, they are stopping at nothing to seek numerous ways of containing costs.

Certainly, the main aspect compelling mines to include renewable energy sources is cost containment.

Normally, energy constitutes between 10 to 20% of operating costs of a mining business. Due to this situation, it makes more business sense for mining

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different energy sources, for instance solar with diesel, diesel with gas, etc.

With respect to mining, solar hybrid generation offerings are considered more convenient option from a costcontainment and environmentally friendliness perspectives. Solar hybrid plants enable companies to partially replace expensive non-renewable fuel, rather than remove it altogether.

Sandfire Resources DeGrussa Copper/ Gold Mine in Australia is referenced as model of successful solar hybrid power generation. The mine sources the power from a hybrid plant that combine solar and diesel energy.

Hype or hope?

‘Climate change’ sceptics, argue that the suggested benefits of renewables are more hype than real hope, greatly exaggerated. But context is important to consider. Feedback or evidence from mine operators with operations on the continent suggests that renewables offer benefits, from the standpoints of costsaving and reducing the environmental footprint.

A case in point involves Resolute Mining, an ASX and LSE listed gold mining company, which replaced singular diesel generators with a newer environmentally friendly technology available at Siyama Underground gold mine in Mali. Diesel generators had proved a liability considering notoriously fluctuating high fuel cost. As a resulted of the new technology, the achieved 40% reduction in the cost of electricity (COE) and a 40% in carbon emissions. companies to explore alternative energy sources. Diesel and HFO are regarded as more expensive sources of power compared to grid power. However, if power utilities (which are mostly stateowned in most African countries) were to provide grid connection to mines in remote locations, the cost would be forbiddingly high for mines.

The situation would be different with factories located near metropolitan areas. Thus, it has been a case of diesel and HFO for mines or nothing. But with the emergence and increasing viability of solar, wind and other renewables, the new thinking in mines is adding renewables as another source of electricity.

Renewables are regarded a lower cost power solution relative to a typical mine’s

existing source of power. The operative word here is relative.

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Environmental considerations As part of the global drive to reduce the effects of climate change, change in legislation is increasing the burden on industries to do their part in adopting measures to reduce climate change.

Mining companies, which have been faulted as one of the biggest polluters, would like to be seen to be doing their bit in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from their operations, from mine to mill.

And so, renewables present one of the feasible avenues for them to achieve this objective.

Going hybrid Noticeably, hybrid power generation is becoming a popular option in mining.

Hybrid power generation combines two

Interestingly, there are immense gains expected from the 36MW solar farm and 7.5MW battery storage system, which will be constructed at Sukari Gold Mine, Egypt’s largest gold mine. The project is expected to be operational in the second quarter of 2022. When fully operational, the solar farm is expected to reduce carbon emissions by carbon emissions by an estimated 60,000 t CO2-e per every year from the existing diesel power station and cost of power to the gold mine by 22 million litres per year.

Available asset management options If mines are to decide to roll out their own power plants, what approach would work best?

For one thing, given how overburdened they are, it would be inconceivable for mining companies to even contemplate carrying the burden of owning and

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FEATURE

managing a power generation plant, an asset that requires special skills. As this is not their core business, in the current environment, the last thing mines would loath is having another burden on top of what they are bearing.

The most convenient option is outsourcing to a service provider, with a credible track record to build and manage the access. With this approach, mines are rest assured of a steady, uninterrupted supply of electricity, freeing them from the liability of managing the asset to fully focus on their core business. Power producers, considering this need, customise their offerings to suit requirements of their respective clientele. The popular methods, at least from what has been observed, is power purchase agreements (PPA) from independent power producers (IPPs) in the form of a flexible rental agreement.

Typically, the power would be sourced from ‘a plug and play’ deployable solar farm.

From what can be gathered is that, in most cases, due to the short span of life of mine, the popular preference is a deployable solar farm through a flexible rental agreement. In most cases, this has been a huge. This allows for simple relocation, in addition to the construction of the solar power plants in harsh environments, where traditional solutions cannot be applied.

What are prospects like?

One don’t have the crystal ball to predict the future as COVID-19 has shown us, but based on current trends in the mining sector and the global push towards ‘cleaner’ energy sources, more mining companies are likely to join the clean energy bandwagon.

In all fairness, it is still early days for the entry of renewables in the mining

sector, but there are huge prospects judging from orders players are making and projects that have been completed thus far. So far, interestingly, there is diverse mix of major (blue chip), midtiers and junior miners. Names like Rio Tinto and BHP Billiton, B2Gold, IAMGOLD, Nevsun Resources, Sandfire Resources and Shanta Gold, amongst others, have entered the fray.

It is neither near where near the end nor the beginning of the end for fossil fuels as some proponents of green energy would like people to believe. It should be borne in mind that solar is an intermittent power source, as there is no power at night, at worst, or less power on a cloudy day at best. And so, due to this feature, mines can use solar as a one part of a hybrid system (either with diesel generators and/or storage). In reality, solar, wind and other renewables can only be addons to their existing fossil fuelled power station.

It also a bit of a stretch to expect renewables to be embraced wholesale.

Mining power managers are still exploring the viability of renewables, weighing the pros and cons. Understandably, coming from a position where they are so accustomed to diesel and HFOs, it is to be expected that they can’t just embrace the idea of adding renewables to their energy sources wholesale. This is because, technically solar and wind work differently from diesel generators.

Another reality that should not be overlooked is that power managers in just cannot miss is the cost of a power plant. Typically, renewables are very capital-intensive, requiring high commitment to upfront costs (initial capex), and a period of recouping the investment (amortisation) can be not less than 20 years. This is in contrast with diesel power plants, which have a

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much shorter amortisation period, as they require significantly lower capex.

This becomes a serious consideration when life of mine is factored in.

Hence, Mine power managers would ask themselves: Is this worth it considering long-term purchase agreements when our mine has a shorter life? From point of departure, the rental option becomes the most practical way to access power.

On the hand, where there is longer life of mine and higher capex is prohibitive, a prefinancing option would be recommended. This is an arrangement where the asset is fully financed by the power company, leaving the mine operator to focus on the core business while the power producer can deliver a service.

A long view is always punted to sell the benefit of investing in a power generation plant to indecisive mine managers. This is that, on every kWh of diesel power replaced with solar power, a saving is earned.

Bearing in mind that power managers in mines are still exploring more about the renewable energy, power producers should help mines make informed decisions on what solutions would suit them best. It has been established mine operators face a challenge when it comes to deciding the choice of technology, whether PV only, PV with smart controls or PV with battery storage.

Generally speaking, what is clear is that renewable energy will continue making traction in mining in the foreseeable future. It is predicted that most of the volume will come from off-grid diesel and HFO powered mines.

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The Digital Oilfield is Going Solar...

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From wellhead to pipeline, operators are using solar to power a range of applications: injection pumping, security monitoring, data and communications, RTUs and PLCs, Þeld instrumentation (temperature, pressure, ßow, level), actuated valves, cathodic protection, and much more.

With no moving parts, no fuel

needed, and little maintenance required, solar works out to be a reliable, cost-effective solution for upstream and midstream systems.

...and the solar brand it’s going with is Morningstar Used in over 100 countries and with over four million sold, Morningstar’s reliability and technology has been tested and proven in missioncritical installations for nearly 30 years. Now with comprehensive hazardous location certiÞcations— UL/CSA (North America) and IECEx/ATEX (International/Europe)—Morningstar has the widest, most dependable line of HazLoc solar controllers in the industry.

“…We standardised on using Morningstar MPPT solar controllers in our Hazardous Area Zone-certiÞed solar power systems for use in safety critical power systems for offshore oil and gas assets. Their highefÞciency is uniquely suited for our needs… Most important, with Morningstar, we know we won’t have to go back for expensive service calls in the Þeld.”

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FEATURE

Metso Outotec and HALMEK LITHIUM to construct the battery-grade lithium hydroxide process using soda leaching

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ALMEK LITHIUM has selected Metso Outotec’s patented lithium hydroxide process for production of battery-grade lithium hydroxide at their greenfield plant in the Tula region in Russia. The order value, which is not disclosed, has been booked in Metals’ Q2/2021 orders received. Metso Outotec’s scope of delivery consists of the engineering and key equipment supply for the lithium hydroxide process, the basis of which will be the Metso Outotec OKTOP® Autoclave Plant.

The environmentally sound production process is one of Metso Outotec’s more than 100 Planet Positive products.

“One of the most important tasks in the project was the selection of technology.

Instead of the more traditional sulfuric acid processing to produce lithium hydroxide, we decided to choose the Metso Outotec lithium hydroxide process as it is the most promising and environmentally sound process at the moment. The pilot tests conducted at the Metso Outotec Research Center in Pori, Finland, provided excellent results,” explains Pavel Galchenko, VP, Halmek Lithium.

“Metso Outotec has developed lithium hard rock-related technologies for some 20 years now. It started with the batterygrade lithium carbonate process and, when the market changed to favor lithium hydroxide, the process flowsheet was converted to directly produce batterygrade lithium hydroxide monohydrate (LHM) from spodumene.

Both of the processes are patented and will be significant assets in our battery chemicals business, meeting the need to produce high-end Li-ion battery

chemistries for the growing market,” says Mikko Rantaharju, Vice President, Hydrometallurgy business line at Metso Outotec. HALMEK LITHIUM’s new hydrometallurgical plant, which will complement their existing lithium hydroxide plant, is currently under construction. As raw material, the new plant will use spodumene concentrate; it will feature a capacity of 20,000 tons per year of battery-grade lithium hydroxide monohydrate, which is used in the production of batteries for electric vehicles. The first production line is planned to start up in 2023, and the second production line with a capacity of 20,000 tons is expected to start production in 2026.

Thanks to its extensive technological know-how in minerals and metals processing, a global presence and in-house research and development centers in, for example, Germany, and Finland, Metso Outotec is well positioned to support various types of battery chemicals projects, including lithium.

NALCO selects Metso Outotec to deliver bauxite grinding package to their Damanjodi Alumina Refinery

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etso Outotec has been awarded a contract for the engineering and delivery of a bauxite grinding package to National Aluminium Company’s (NALCO) Damanjodi Alumina Refinery for their 5th stream expansion project in Odisha, India. Typically, the value of this type of an order is in the range of EUR 12-15 million. The order has been booked in Minerals’ Q2/2021 orders received.

Metso Outotec’s delivery includes basic design of bauxite silos and engineering and supply of two ball

mills with a capacity of 434 tph each, apron feeders, agitators, slurry pumps, instrumentation, as well as site advisory services.

“We are extremely happy to continue our co-operation with NALCO. This is the third order we have received for their current expansion project in Odisha. The other two orders include two energy-efficient flash evaporation plants and two alumina calciners along with a hydrate filtration plant,” explains Kamal Pahuja, President, Middle East and India at Metso Outotec.

More information on Metso Outotec offering for grinding is available on our website. The Alumina business remains in Metso Outotec’s portfolio and is not part of the earlier announced divested Aluminium business.

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FEATURE INSIGHTS

Water stewardship gives mines the broader view

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ith South Africa’s growing demand for water – and the impact of climate change on rainfall variability and water supply security – the need for a systematic approach to water stewardship in mining has never been greater. Water management has long been a focus in the mining sector, according to Lindsay Shand, associate partner and principal environmental geologist at SRK Consulting. In 2014, for instance, the International Council on Mining and Metals’ water stewardship framework outlined a standardised approach for mining companies, recognising that water connects an operation to the surrounding landscape and communities.

“Often, the scope and demands of water stewardship may seem a daunting prospect at operational level,” said Sutton. “This is one of the reasons why best practice tools are so useful, such as the International Water Stewardship Standard from the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS*).”

She highlighted that the AWS Standard offers a globally applicable framework for major water users to understand their catchment and their own water use and impacts, with practical guidance on how to effectively manage these impacts.

“In our past work with mining clients, SRK often only addressed a particular challenge or project, rather than taking the broader view,” said Shand.

“There is today, however, a growing recognition that a high-level, concerted approach to water stewardship is not only the environmentally responsible route to take, but also contributes to building the resilience of the mining operation.”

Dr Simon Lorentz, principal hydrologist at SRK Consulting

“Practical steps and guidance in the AWS Standard help water users to improve their water practices for better on-site water performance, while also contributing to wider sustainability goals,” she said. “Water crises are being exacerbated by climate change and are now acknowledged as societal risks due to their far-reaching consequences.”

This resilience lies in the ability to identify and manage the myriad of water-related risks that operations face, she said. These might include water supply uncertainty, compliance issues related to water quality, and downstream discharge impacts. A water stewardship approach can provide the foundation for pro-active planning and action to avoid incidents that could threaten operational continuity or even viability and present a liability to downstream water users.

Tools for progress While the focus for mining operations is generally on the specific challenge at hand, the larger corporations are starting to see the value of the bigger picture on water-related issues, concurred Fiona Sutton, principal consultant at SRK Consulting.

A site in a catchment taking cognizance of the effects of upstream activities on a site (red triangle) as well as the potential impact of site operations on downstream water users

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INSIGHTS

Catchment care Water stewardship considers impacts not only on the mine site but in the wider catchment in which a mine operates, according to Dr Simon Lorentz, principal hydrologist at SRK Consulting. “Risks specific to the company can be direct, which disrupt actual mining operations, such as the non-availability of water supply to manage operations like waste disposal,” said Lorentz. “They can also be indirect, where supply chains are disrupted due to water supply issues or poor water quality.”

He noted that catchment-specific risks are influenced by local water resource management and governance effectiveness in dealing with factors such as increasing demand and unpredictability driven by climate variability. They are also affected by local infrastructure adequacy, the amounts of pollution being disposed into water bodies, and the resulting quality of available water. “In one of our projects, we worked closely with a mine and the responsible authority to ensure that the quality of the naturally saline groundwater from an open pit was an acceptable quality before being discharged from site,” said Shand. “This strategy was guided by the presence of sensitive farming activity downstream of the mine and was made possible by taking the broader water stewardship approach.”

Strengthening reputations The central position of water in many of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is another reason why many mining companies are starting to embrace water stewardship more systematically, said Sutton. Many corporates align their strategies with the SDGs, and many of those are relevant to water. While Goal 6 on Clean Water and Sanitation is key, others that depend on access to water include No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Good Health & Well-being, Sustainable Cities & Communities, and Life Below Water.

“An added advantage of the AWS Standard is that it allows mines to be accredited once they have met the detailed range of requirements,” she said. “This is valuable in terms of companies’ reputations – whether in the eyes of investors, financial institutions, regulators or the general public.”

Credible benchmark The AWS’s position as a member of ISEAL assures stakeholders that its water stewardship framework has been reviewed by an independent and competent body. The framework and the accreditation therefore provide a credible benchmark that can be trusted as a true indication of commitment.

Fiona Sutton, principal consultant at SRK Consulting

“SRK’s decades of experience in the mining sector, combined with its depth of expertise in water-related disciplines, positions us well to guide mining companies in their water stewardship journey,” said Shand.

Covering the bases

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Lindsay Shand, associate partner and principal environmental geologist at SRK Consulting

pplying the principles of water stewardship on mines involves a range of considerations – both regulatory and strategic.

On a recent project in which SRK Consulting was involved, the process involved the following among the various relevant areas to be covered.

• Water use licensing – a regulatory requirement which now also includes the need to consider climate change impacts • Reduced water consumption alternatives • Water quality monitoring • Challenges arising from the salinity of discharge water – considering upstream water quality conditions and downstream water users • Public consultation and disclosure – including a community water supply project

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FEATURE

Heavy-duty hauling trailers for mining equipment Efficient and Safe Equipment Recovery Recent innovations to heavy duty trailers have minimised the impact of equipment downtime on operations, by enabling safe and efficient recovery of equipment that has broken down for repairs at a workshop. With this speed, equipment is brought back to site within a significantly short-time.

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s they ramping up production, mine operators should be prepared for unexpected breakdown of critical mobile equipment, which operates in rugged environments where it is subjected to incessant battering and, at times, overworked beyond capacity. In the event of a breakdown, mine managers should be able to able act timeously to get equipment like shovels, drills, wheel loaders, wheel dozers etc., back on track at the earliest convenience. And in the vast expanse of mining environment, this challenge arises when it comes to the means of transporting the equipment to an area where it can be repaired or a replacement sought promptly. In these instances, off-road hauling trailers come to the rescue of mine operators, or the contractors from whom they hire their equipment, in performing this demanding task.

Recently, First Mining DRC-Zambia asked OEMs of heavy-duty, off-road towing and hauling trucks about how they customise their equipment to suit current requirements of the surface mining environment. The companies are involved in three key roles in the supply chain - designing, manufacturing and servicing. To avoid falling into the trap of directly or directly vouching for products, references to both information on brand names and the companies they do represent have been deliberately left out from the discourse.

Core objectives With a capacity of between 100 and 1600

tonnes, as well as front and rear loading options, the trailers are manufactured with adverse surface mining conditions in mind. Interestingly, while brand names are different, the OEMs concur that, in the main, their products are aimed at achieving core objectives in equipment recovery: sustaining productivity and increasing or improving safety. Some of the state-of-the-art technologies have been incorporated in the functionality of the trailers. i. Productivity Downtime to a machine can be very costly. The longer equipment fails and sits idle without being attended to, the higher the loss of productivity. Thus, conveniently, hauling trailers reduce fleet downtime by increasing mobility of a machine that has broken down to ensure that it reaches a workshop where it can be repaired on time and brought back to the site. In this way, productivity is increased and maintenance costs reduced.

Worth mentioning is the incorporation of elements to improve productivity. One of the innovations that can be cited is the use of technology. Laser tracking technology eliminates alignment errors, enabling quick recovery.

The trailer’s low-profile enables efficient equipment loading. The modular design makes transportation (in most cases which would be shipping) and installation on site easier. Shorter installation time translates ensures availability of the vehicle.

ii. Safety Operator safety is paramount in the design of the trailers. Noticeably, common elements in the design are aimed at minimising exposure of the operator to hazards arising from contact with equipment. This is evident in the use of radio remote control which allows for recovery without the driver disembarking, minimising the chance of injury. Both from the safety of the cabin in the tow truck, the operator is able to control hydraulic and electrical trailer functions connected to a control box, mounted on the deck of the towing truck.

Furthermore, the use of 3D camera systems ensures precise positioning of the tow bar prior to engagement and keeps operators out of harm’s way.

Another safety enhancing element is the rear and front-loading options. The rearloading or front-loading options allow for safe loading of equipment with high points of gravity, such as tracked drills and mining shovels.

Rising to the challenge The last thing mining operators would loath to experience is costly downtime to equipment as a result of lack of access or use of trailers that are not efficient and agile enough to handle complex tasks.

From the abovementioned, it can be deduced that OEMs are pulling out of the stops to rise the challenge of meeting evolving heavy equipment requirements from mine operators on sites efficiently and safely.

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FEATURE

TowHaul offers unparalleled equipment mobility a site visit to be sure all aspects of the project are captured. From performance summaries to general arrangement drawings to turn radius and shipping estimates, the TowHaul team strives to paint as complete a picture as possible.

A

s mines are stretched to keep up with production demands, the downtime of mobile equipment must be a short as possible. Whether it is to move tracked equipment to a new location or to the shop for planned maintenance, the clock is always ticking.

TowHaul Lowboys are used throughout the world simply because they are the most versatile and reliable solution to hauling tracked equipment.

TowHaul’s founder, Frank Smith, was the first designer of large scale off-highway lowboy trailers for open pit and surface mines. Beginning in 1977, Frank started his journey in mining equipment in the North American surface coal mines.

As the original off-highway lowboy manufacturer, the company has focused exclusively on the mining industry allowing them to continually improve their equipment designs to handle harsh mining conditions. This distinction has earned TowHaul a strong reputation as the leading off-highway lowboy manufacturer in the surface and openpit mining industry.

TowHaul have several units operating throughout the Africa continent including South Africa, Namibia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burkina Faso, Morocco, Mauritania, Guinea and Ghana. Over the last two decades, TowHaul Lowboys and Towing Goosenecks have become so vital to these mining operations that many sites have a second and third unit.

“Eureka!” moment. By offering a frontloading lowboy design that could be easily connected and disconnected, the Gooseneck could be utilized in other ways. The TowHaul Towing Gooseneck was born.

The TowHaul Towing Gooseneck could be used both to pull a TowHaul Lowboy and, at the touch of a button, be reconfigured to tow a disabled haul truck. With a single minehaul truck, a mine operation could move their tracked equipment fleet as well as recover disabled haul trucks.

TowHaul works with every client to quote, design and build a lowboy and disabled haul truck recovery system to meet the needs of each individual mine site.

TowHaul have a dedicated pre-sales engineer to review the proper capacity, dimensions and prime mover to suit site conditions. This process often involves

MINExpo 2021 will be in Las Vegas on September 13-15th. TowHaul will be at booth 5015 in Central Hall. With the challenges of travel this past year, the company has taken steps to touch base with customers who are unable to travel to the United States. The TowHaul team is exploring more virtual alternatives for this year so stay tuned to www.towhaul. com for more information.

You can catch TowHaul on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube. Watch for new content on these platforms for new information and to meet other TowHaul customers.

Equipment mobility has become a critical component of an efficient mine site. TowHaul can help every mine site decrease costs and increase mobility.

TowHaul’s reputation is further strengthened by offering mining clients unprecedented versatility with their equipment. In the early days of the company, asking a mine to dedicate a haul truck to pull a lowboy was “outside the box” to say the least. Frank knew that he had to offer more value to his clients. In the early 1990’s, he had a

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FEATURE

Wärtsilä pioneering significant test programme for pure hydrogen engines to enable fully decarbonised energy systems the infrastructure needed to develop green hydrogen, but that investment is reliant upon having market-ready engines which can run on the fuel once it is readily available. Our modelling shows that a significant amount of thermal balancing is required by the middle of this century to achieve the transition to 100% renewable energy. By developing engines today which can run on hydrogen tomorrow, we are future-proofing energy systems to become 100% renewable by 2050.”

T

he technology group Wärtsilä has begun testing its thermal balancing engines using pure hydrogen and expects to have an engine and power plant concept capable of running on 100% hydrogen by 2025, enabling the transition to decarbonised energy systems around the world. Green hydrogen is forecast to deliver 13% of global energy demand by 2070 , but at present there are no commercially available engines which can effectively use the fuel, potentially jeopardising global net zero ambitions.

Wärtsilä is now pioneering a milestone testing programme for its balancing gas engines to be convereted to use pure hydrogen as fuel. The project in Vaasa, Finland, will assess Wärtsilä’s existing 31 gas engine technology to find the optimum parameters for running on hydrogen. Wärtsilä’s gas engines are currently used for flexible balancing power generation for power systems with high levels of renewables.

Green hydrogen, developed from renewable energy using electrolysis, and green hydrogen-based fuels will provide long duration energy storage to work alongside renewable generation and short-duration storage (such as lithium-ion batteries) to create reliable and fully decarbonised energy systems.

According to Wärtsilä’s energy system modelling, over 11,000 GW of wind and solar power is required in the G20 alone in order to create 100% renewable energy systems. It will require 933 GW of carbon neutral thermal balancing capacity to enable the addition of this amount of renewable energy and stabilise these future power systems.

The ability to modify existing engines to utilise hydrogen and hydrogenbased fuels when they become widely available is crucial to achieving global decarbonisation goals. The internal combustion engine is a key technology in enabling the growth of renewables today, providing the flexibility required to support the intermittent generation of wind and solar. Many countries are investing in new, highly efficient engines to support the sustainable acceleration of renewable energy. Being able to modify the engines in the future to utilise carbon neutral fuels, such as green hydrogen and green hydrogen-based fuels, means that utilities can invest confidently now to enable the 100% renewable system required by the middle of this century, without risking stranded assets.

Håkan Agnevall, CEO Wärtsilä, said: “This is a milestone moment in the worldwide energy transition. Global societies will have to invest billions into

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Wärtsilä’s grid balancing portfolio, consisting of power plants, energy storage and energy management systems, effectively manages high shares of renewables and creates the conditions to produce carbon-neutral future fuels which can decarbonise energy intensive sectors, from power to mobility.

Wärtsilä is one of the world leaders in deploying thermal balancing and energy storage technology, delivering the essential flexibility required to rapidly accelerate the global shift to 100% renewable energy systems. It has installed a total of 74 GW of power plant capacity in 180 countries around the world, including a growing percentage of thermal balancing and more than 80 energy storage systems. Wärtsilä’s engines are capable of ramping up to full load in two minutes and can currently run on natural gas, biogas, synthetic methane or hydrogen blends, with a blending possibility of up to 25% hydrogen already proven today.

In parallel, Wärtsilä is running engine testing for ammonia and methanol, two alternative future fuels which will support the decarbonisation of the shipping sector and help the International Maritime Organisation to achieve its target to cut the sector’s GHG emissions by 50% by 2050.

www.fmdrc-Zambia.com

FEATURE

La Première Phase De L’usine De Concentration De Kamoa Copper Est Maintenant Entièrement Opérationnelle Et Le Concentre De Cuivre Est Prêt Pour Les Exportations Internationales

L

e conseil d’administration de Kamoa Copper S.A., Mark Farren et Ben Munanga sont heureux d’annoncer que l’usine de concentration de la première phase du projet de Kamoa Copper, avec une capacité de 3,8 millions de tonnes par an (Mtpa), est désormais pleinement opérationnelle.

Le 1er juin 2021, les premiers camions de concentrés de cuivre ont été transportés vers la fonderie de la société Lualaba Copper Smelterà proximité de Kamoa. Les livraisons quotidiennes de concentrés sont désormais en cours. À ce jour, plus de 10 500 tonnes métriques sèches de concentré ont été livrées à la fonderie locale et les premiers lingots de cuivre blister reçus.

Les premiers minerais ont été introduits dans l’usine de concentration le 20 mai et la production du premier concentré de cuivre a commencé le 25 mai, plusieurs mois avant la date prévue. Au 30 juin, 313 000 tonnes de minerai d’une teneur en cuivre de 4,85 % avaient été transportées directement des opérations souterraines de Kakula vers le stock d’exploitation minière (ROM). L’équipe prépare actuellement les derniers tests de performance de l’usine qui clôtureront

les opérations de mise en service C4 ou « à chaud ». Les teneurs des minerais qui alimentent l’usine de concentration devraient augmenter au cours du mois de juillet.

Mark Farren (Directeur Général) a déclaré que « le mois dernier a été consacré à la mise en service de l’usine de la première phase du projet, après la célébration de la première production de

concentré de Kamoa. Nous prévoyons atteindre nos objectifs de production de cuivre pour le reste de l’année et nous progressons bien dans la construction de l’usine de concentration de la deuxième phase du projet, qui est toujours en bonne voie pour être achevée à l’avance ».

Un total de 338 000 tonnes d’une teneur en cuivre de 4,59 % a été extrait en juin, comprenait 295 000 tonnes d’une teneur en cuivre de 4,76 % de la mine de Kakula, dont 66 200 tonnes d’une teneur en cuivre de 7,71 % du centre à haute teneur de la mine, et 43 000 tonnes d’une teneur en cuivre de 3,43 % de la mine de Kansoko.

Les piles de stockage pré-production de Kamoa Copper contiennent maintenant environ 3,4 millions de tonnes de minerai à haute et moyenne teneur à une moyenne mixte estimée à 4,78 % de cuivre. Le cuivre contenu dans les piles de stockage fin mai s’élève désormais à plus de 162 000 tonnes. Alors que l’usine progresse vers sala pleine capacité de conception de la phase 1 et

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TRILLION TONNES of HAULAGE over the

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