Inside Mining August September 2017

www.miningne.ws

af r ic an u pdates on th e

Norilsk Nickel

The world is changing

g ro un d a n d un d e rg ro un d

LANXESS SA

Outperforming expectations

Eaton

On the safety wavelength

Whabouchi Mine Running parallels

Peter Steenkamp, CEO of Harmony, discusses the company's plans to manage illegal mining and other challenges plaguing the industry.

ISSN 1999-8872 • R50.00 (incl. VAT) • Vol. 10 • No. 08 • August/September 2017

Babcock International Group Tel +27 (0)11 230 7300 enquiries@babcock.co.za www.babcock.co.za

Terex Trucks 2017.

contents

a f r i c a n u p dat e s o n t h e g ro u n d a n d

u nde rground

The MR90 mine radio system 08 regulars 3 Ed’s Comment

Underground Development 21 Running parallel

7 Africa Round-up

24 The error of our ways

38 Market News

Minerals Processing 26 Knowing your mining conditions

Cover Story 4 Outperforming expectations

18

IT & Communications 29 Sink or swim

harmony 8 Safe, profitable ounces 13 Giving back

SHEQ 30 Digging deeper for mining wellness

CEO Talks 14 The world is changing

Specialised Rescue 32 Mine rescue in the future

AUG/SEPT

2017

Events 35 Junior Indaba: Lessons from mining legends

Legislation 17 Formalise the zama-zama?

37 Electra Mining Botswana attracts top names

Underground Development 18 On the safety wavelength

This radio system meets not only the explosion protection requirements, but also the high technical and functional requirements of the TAS Directive in their entirety

ON THE COVER p4 www.miningne.ws

40 Mining charter compliance

AFR IC AN UPDATES ON THE

NORILSK NICKEL

The world is changing

GROUND AND UNDERGROUND

LANXESS SA

Outperforming expectations

EATON

On the safety wavelength

WHABOUCHI MINE Running parallels

Peter Steenkamp, CEO of Harmony Gold, discusses the company's plans to manage illegal mining and other challenges plaguing the industry.

ISSN 1999-8872 • R50.00 (incl. VAT) • Vol. 10 • No. 08 • August/September 2017

24

32

LANXESS is one of the world’s biggest suppliers of chrome ore for the chemical industry and a leading producer of chrome chemicals, with a representation of 50 production sites worldwide

@mining_news www.facebook.com/pages/ Mining-News

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editor's comment

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Safety in numbers The mining industry continues to be a risky working environment for those operating both legally and illegally.

On the upside, we are starting to see stakeholders at the forefront in the development of systems to enhance safety and mitigate deaths.

R

ECENTLY, I READ a report from the Diamond Development Initiative (DDI), based in Canada, indicating that approximately 16% of the world’s diamonds are produced by artisanal miners.

There are 1.5 million of them in Africa and South America, working in 18 different countries – most dig by hand for illegal gangs. This artisanal mining is associated with several challenges, including death and disability for miners who work under poor and risky conditions, with poor health outcomes, resulting from limited protection and awareness, a low level of regulation and labour protection, and environmental degradation.

Commonly referred to as zama-zamas, these miners

"For safety is not a gadget but a state of mind." – Eleanor Everet

editor

expose themselves to extremely dangerous conditions to sustain this underground economy and, in so doing, rob the South African economy of millions of rand. But if you look closely, at the core of this crisis lies a much greater issue: the growth in illegal mining can, for the most part, be attributed to a challenging socio-economic climate in surrounding communities. With output dwindling by the

ISSN 1999-8872 Inside Mining

day and minerals proving much harder to extract, mining

Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. ___________________________________

mining – understandably so. Following the fatal explosion

All material in Inside Mining is copyright protected and may not be reproduced either in whole or in part without the prior written permission of the publisher. The views of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers.

motivation

companies have become increasingly frustrated with illegal at Harmony’s Eland shaft, CEO Peter Steenkamp shares with Inside Mining, in this issue’s CEO Talks feature, how the company has partnered with the authorities and other mining companies to mitigate the effects of this crisis.

Despite that, the company remains on an upward trajectory.

In addition, we were given the chance to explore some of Harmony’s exciting CSI initiatives across the country.

South Africa is the largest contributor to the ferrochrome industry in the world, but the sector remains under immense pressure. Our Cover Story unlocks LANXESS SA – the only South African chrome industry player to handle the entire chrome value chain despite unfriendly market conditions.

To our avid readers, be sure to sign up and get the latest updates and inside scoops from the mining industry. Check out what we are talking about on our website and Facebook page, or follow us on Twitter and have your say.

The company has put its best foot forward where safety is concerned and has the track record to back it up.

It is always good to see industry players truly investing in the health and safety of employees, despite the South African mining industry continuing to face myriad challenges as a result of subdued commodity prices and a growing cost base. However, now is as good a time as any to focus on

@mining_news

the things that really matter – and safety is right up there.

Mpinane Senkhane

www.facebook.com/pages/ Mining-News

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

3

COVER STORY

Outperforming

expectations Despite South Africa being the largest contributor to the ferrochrome industry, the sector remains under immense pressure. LANXESS is the only South African chemical chrome industry player to handle the entire value chain. By Mpinane Senkhane

S

outh Africa’s mature chrome

announced its plans to further strengthen

chrome chemicals. This strategic

industry has a huge socio-eco-

the competitiveness of its leather

measure, therefore, enables us to further

nomic effect on the country’s

chemicals business.

strengthen our competiveness in the

GDP. In 2012, the sector contrib-

chrome chemicals business,” says Ben

uted roughly 200 000 jobs and millions

streamline and focus its chrome value

Marais, country representative. The

of rand to the economy. But, while the

chain in South Africa while Argentinean

mine forms part of the Bushveld Igneous

mining industry continues to face con-

chrome chemicals production will be

Complex, which holds the majority of

siderable external pressures, LANXESS

discontinued during Q4 2017. LANXESS

South Africa’s chrome ore deposits.

Chrome Mining (Pty) Ltd. (LCM) has opt-

is the only supplier that is active in both

The LANXESS value chain itself involves

ed to adopt a more optimistic response

organic leather chemicals and chrome

the mining of the raw material, and the

to the market.

tanning salts. In chrome tanning salts,

ore being broken underground and

the company has a unique position

brought to the surface by conveyor

through its strategic backwards

belts. Once on surface, it is processed

integration in chrome ore.

to yield chemical-grade concentrate –

The LCM business To date, LANXESS has been one of the world’s biggest suppliers of chrome

4

The LANXESS Leather Business Unit will

The Leather BU currently employs

the raw material for LANXESS’s chrome

ore for the chemical industry and a

1 500 people worldwide and has

chemicals plants; lumpy ore and

leading producer of chrome chemicals.

production sites in Leverkusen, Germany;

metallurgical concentrate – the raw

The company handles the entire value

Filago, Italy; Rustenburg, Newcastle, and

material for the ferrochrome industry;

chain from chrome ore to leather-

Merebank in South Africa; Changzhou,

as well as foundry sand, which is used

tanning materials in South Africa. The

China; and, until end of 2017, Zárate,

in metal foundries.

company’s mine in Rustenburg has built

Argentina. “In South Africa, we operate

a reputation as being a supplier of

a unique value chain with direct raw

Safety first

high-standard chrome ore for local and

material access and leading technology

Marais attributes the mine’s success

international use. Recently, LANXESS

that allows us to efficiently produce

to the company’s commitment not to

Ins i de Mi n i n g au g / s e p t | 2 0 1 7

cover story

Ben Marais, country representative and managing director, LANXESS South Africa

compromise on what matters most.

mine. “The zero-harm journey starts with

Right at the top of that list is safety.

workplace visits and consultations with

“From the outset, the company has

our employees and contractors, under

committed itself not to compromise in

the banner of visibly felt leadership, and

the area of safety. On the contrary, and

culminates with developing personal

with the assistance of all its stakeholders,

relationships with our workforce.”

the company identified areas for

The visibly felt leadership practices

improvement in safety and consciously

being conducted with management

invested in better equipment and

and the employees identify hazards,

technology to allow workers to work

promote the stop-and-fix method

safer, by removing them from the

and reward employees for positive

working face or using equipment to

participation in the zero-harm journey.

reduce the physical effort required

This method and approach to business

by employees to perform day-to-day

is at the heart of the LANXESS business

tasks,” Marais says.

model. Ferreira explains how support

“This has proved to be extremely

from management is continuously

fruitful, and not only assisted the

highlighted to promote safety on LCM

company to improve its safety statistics,

operations and the breakthrough came

but also contributed greatly to the

when the employees started to build

improvement in production volumes.

relationships with the Safety, Health,

All that was needed in addition

Environment and Quality Department

to identifying areas of wasteful

and management by always being

expenditure was to put in place

visible and physically showing support

appropriate measures to prevent the

and not only talking about it.

reoccurrence thereof.” The mine’s

“Management had taken the lead

statistics reflect this approach as it has

in communicating with all employees

achieved a zero LTIFR (lost-time injury

and personally visiting their workplaces

frequency rate) and RIFR (reportable

to identify the areas where they would

injury frequency rate) since November

need assistance to ensure a safe

2016. LCM confidently believes that it

working environment.

will be celebrating a zero-harm RIFR for the remainder of 2017.

Mindset at the core Sarel Ferreira, CEO, LANXESS Chrome Mining, expands on this LTI-free

“The first thing was to get them supporting our belief of having a zeroharm mine. The key is the support and involvement of employees on all levels,”

Sarel Ferreira, CEO, LANXESS Chrome Mining

HOW LCM BECAME THE SAFETY LEADERS IN NORTH WEST: •T he workforce firmly believes in and supports the zero-harm policy for the mine •V isibly felt leadership – communicating with employees, visiting their workplaces and practising the stop-and-fix method • I mplementation of new technologies, i.e.: - Drill jiggs to make the faces even safer - New safety nets - Pneumatic pinchbars

to market conditions with optimism.

“At present, the mining operation is running in an optimal and costeffective manner and is in a very good position to benefit from any increase in the price of chrome ore. Although the recent spike in the price on the international market was short-lived, it proved that the mine could provide the right volumes in a safe, costeffective and sustainable manner, which made the operation profitable at the appropriate pricing levels,” Ferreira concludes.

Ferreira explains.

sentiment, adding, “LANXESS has been

Market conditions

named the safety leader in the North

The chrome price has left market

West region. The key to realising this

sentiments wary, and although the

was to ensure that all employees and

prices did increase for a short period,

contractors are involved and support

they quickly dipped again. Despite the

the idea of making LCM a zero-harm

shaky market, LANXESS has responded

www.lanxess.co.za

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

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Mining news

from around the continent

Hub to come up with a revised law

Steenkampskraal Mine ore is in neodym-

that balances investor returns with

ium, followed by around 20% in prase-

government revenue needs and inter-

odymium and 10% in dysprosium. The

national best practice, said Secretary

Steenkampskraal Mine has great value

of Mining Dan Kazungu in an interview.

and economic potential. The mine’s rare

Digital innovation will soon be driving

According to Kazungu, the review is

earths basket, based on present prices,

transformation and growth within the

expected to be submitted to the min-

is about US$15.84/kg of separated rare

local mining sector of the DRC.

istry in the next few weeks. “We want

earth oxides. The cost of the mine’s

to be attractive, but we also want

production is estimated at $9.64/kg of

ICT solutions provider iWayAfrica, the

to get the most out of our resources,

separated rare earths. Gross profit is esti-

mining sector plays a significant role

based on the spirit of win-win,” Kazu-

mated at $6.20/kg.

in the world’s production of cobalt,

ngu added. “The investor must get a

copper, diamond, tantalum, tin and

good return on their investment, but it

gold. Ali Bofulo, managing director at

must be a win for government, and a

iWayAfrica, says that mining accounts

win for the community as well.”

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Digital innovation driving growth in DRC mining sector

According to leading converged

for the DRC’s largest source of export

SOUTH AFRICA

income and is an important and grow-

Tanzania

Tanzania flying economy brightens Africa growth Tanzania is among Africa’s top eco-

ing sector. “While the region is ripe with

nomic performers expected to brighten

opportunity, reliable and ubiquitous

Africa's growth outlook of US$3 trillion by

connectivity is a critical enabler for a

2030, according to the EY ‘Attractive

digital innovation roadmap.

“This is especially relevant to the min-

Rare earth mining is becoming increasingly attractive

Programme Africa 2017’ report. With a growth forecast of 7.1% in 2017 – albeit

ing sector, where connectivity require-

slightly down from earlier projections of

ments are more than just linking a re-

7.2% – and economic growth averaging

mote site to a regional or global head office,” he adds.

According to Bofulo, if the DRC is to

South Africa

SA has a big role in global rare earth supplies

7% per year over a decade, Tanzania has been enjoying relatively uninterrupted growth. The country has been ex-

evolve, embrace digital innovation and

The increasing applications of rare

periencing robust growth of economy

increase its mining production, technol-

earths in key industries are fuelling

for more than a decade due to its gold

ogy issues such as connectivity need

worldwide demand and raising the

production. This is expected to attract

to be addressed. “Companies have

prices of some rare earths.

business investments from Gulf region

started driving increased automation

Manufacturers of products ranging

investors ahead of a major investment

and system reporting for performance

from batteries to electronic devices,

and yield management. All of which re-

and wind turbines to hybrid cars,

quires real connectivity in remote areas

are scouring the world to secure

Ethiopia, Kenya and Rwanda are

to succeed.” he concluded.

critical supplies of rare earths such

commodity-importing East African

as neodymium, praseodymium

countries with the strongest economies

and dysprosium.

over the last two years, which will

KENYA

Kenya aims for mining laws that are win-win for all stakeholders

kenya

Kenya reviews mining laws as industry struggles

meeting later this year.

The 2017 EY report says that Tanzania,

Trevor Blench – chairman of Steen-

present Gulf investors with new markets

kampskraal Holdings, which owns the

ripe for investment opportunities ahead

Steenkampskraal rare earths mine

of Africa Legal Network’s 4th Annual

in the Western Cape – said, “The

International Conference, slated for

Steenkampskraal Mine has the high-

October in Dubai. The World Bank’s

est grades of rare earth elements in

April 2017 Economic Update shows

the world and, with this, South Africa

“Tanzania’s economic performance

hopes to become a significant suppli-

continues to rank among the highest

er of rare earths in world markets.

in the region”.

“The mine plans to establish a supply

Kenya is reviewing its mining code a

chain of its highly sought-after rare

year after enacting new legislation, as it

earths to manufacturers around the

seeks to attract investment into an in-

world. Some manufacturers see the

dustry that’s barely grown over the past

supply as so critical that they have

five years. The government is working

indicated interest in buying a share

with the UK Department for Interna-

of the mine to secure supplies.” More

tional Development-funded Extractives

than half the economic value of the

Tanzania’s robust growth has been powered by gold production

TANZANIA

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

7

Harmony

Safe, profitable ounces Illegal mining has been in the news lately and this has raised serious questions in the industry. Peter Steenkamp, CEO of Harmony discusses how to deal with this and other challenges in the mining industry.

Harmony’s closed or disused shafts have been in the news recently regarding the fatalities of illegal miners after an explosion. Please explain how these illegal miners affect underground operations.

internationally. A criminal miner is a

illegal mining and a significant amount

trespasser who enters a shaft illegally,

of resources have been spent

in contravention of health and safety

preventing and dealing with illegal

legislation, with the intent of mining

mining. Government, including the

and removing gold-bearing material.

South African Police Services, has an

Illegal miners ignore the safety stand-

important role to play in eradicat-

PS Illegal mining – also referred to as

ards of the mines and place their lives

ing this serious challenge.

criminal mining – has become more

at risk – either for their own gain or that

acute since 1999, both nationally and

of organised syndicates. Illegal mining

of our employees. We also have to en-

poses a huge threat to the safety of

sure adherence to all legislation pertain-

our employees and local communities,

ing to mining and extracting the coun-

who face challenges of intimidation,

try’s minerals. The following are key:

bribery and extortion.

• The safety of our employees

Peter Steenkamp, CEO, Harmony

The Eland shaft is no longer an operating shaft and is primarily used for

Our key priority is to ensure the safety

comes first.

• We continue to implement reasona-

pumping water to prevent nearby op-

bly practicable measures to combat

erating shafts from flooding. Access to

illegal mining; mining companies

the shaft is prohibited.

have done so in the past and will

What has the company done about illegal mining, and what are you planning to do in the future with illegal miners?

Harmony and the mining industry have collaborated on combating

continue doing so in the future, but government intervention is key to solving this problem.

• We continue our participation in illegal mining stakeholder forums.

• Ongoing stakeholder participation/ action is required.

Harmony • Illegal mining is an organised crime

Tshepong mine is located near Welkom, Free State

and should be acknowledged by all stakeholders as such.

How does the company ensure the safety of its workers, both where illegal miners are involved and overall in operations?

Safety is our number one concern. At Harmony, the safety and health of our employees and contractors are essential to creating a sustainable business. Our focus is to instil a culture where safety drives everything we do. Processes include risk assessment, providing quality training, the involvement of management at all levels, proactive communication and responses, the implementation of a fatal risk management system, and the adoption of industry-leading safety practices and principles.

Preventative security measures to

Illegal miners ignore the safety standards of the mines and place their lives at risk

restrict unauthorised access and in-

also help Harmony and the industry as a whole to remain globally competitive and achieve zero harm.

What are the current challenges in the mining industry, and what do you believe are the solutions?

creased underground security are

Harmony subscribes to five values: Safe-

The mining industry makes a significant

being used to combat illegal mining at

ty, Accountable, Achievement, Con-

contribution to South Africa's and Pap-

our operations. Continuous awareness

nectivity and Honesty. These five values

ua New Guinea's (PNG) economies as

campaigns further highlight the risk of

inform each of our decisions

employers, taxpayers, supporting relat-

getting involved in illegal mining ac-

and guide our actions.

ed mining service providers (suppliers

tivities. We call on all members of the public to advise us should they know of illegal mining activities by contacting our toll-free anonymous Ethics Hotline on 0800 21 23 39.

It was reported in the news that Harmony’s quarter-on-quarter production was 7% lower than expected. Please explain how you foresee the company being able to reach its targets by the end of the year?

In your view, how does mechanisation influence mining operations, and how will it influence mining operations in the future?

The Target 1 operation is largely mechanised, Phakisa has a state-of-the-art

and contractors) and contributing to local communities. Current challenges facing Harmony and the mining industry as a whole include safety, rising costs, and commodity price and foreign currency fluctuations.

Harmony addresses these challenges

rail-veyor ore-handling system and

as follows:

Kalgold and Hidden Valley are open-

• Safety: The various initiatives related

pit operations. There is industry-wide

to safety have already been dis-

involvement and investment in research

cussed; however, I would again like

and development related to the mod-

to highlight the importance of safety

ernisation of the mining industry. Mech-

and how it links to the long-term sus-

All our operations are focused on pro-

anisation or modernisation will improve

ducing safe, profitable ounces. As at

skills and job preservation, which will

tainability of the company.

• Rising costs: Focus on cost

31 March 2017, we had reached 77% of our target guidance of 1.05 Moz for the 2017 financial year (FY17). Our gold production was 7% lower mainly due to the customary slow start-up after the December holidays for the South African operations. With a quarter still

The Phakisa shaft headgear

remaining for FY17, we are confident that we will be able to achieve our guidance production.

What do you, as the CEO of the company, believe is the recipe for success?

Leading by example, creating and maintaining strong relationships with all stakeholders and executing on a strategy that will grow the company.

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

9

HarmonY

HARMONY PROJECT FACTS •T he Golpu project (50% held) in PNG is a world-class copper-gold orebody. The probable ore reserve (100% basis) for Golpu is 4.78 Mt of copper (with an excellent grade of 1.26%) and 11 million ounces of gold.

•T shepong is Harmony’s largest gold producer, having produced more than 160 000 oz in FY16 (15% of total group production), and it has a life-of-mine of 19 years.

ating efficiencies) and grade controls

Please give us an overview of the company’s flagship projects.

(e.g. increasing grades recovered by

There are a number of projects or

not mining below cut-off) and further

prospects at Harmony that I would like

productivity improvements related to

to highlight. First, the Golpu project

group production) mines to enhance

employee health and wellness.

(50% held) in PNG is a world-class cop-

the operating utilisation and capabilities

per-gold orebody. The probable ore

of both operations. The development of

rency fluctuations: Entering into short-

reserve (100% basis) for Golpu is 4.78 mil-

stages 5 and 6 at Hidden Valley in PNG

term hedging programmes and op-

lion tonnes of copper (with an excellent

is expected to contribute an estimated

timising existing operations (to make

grade of 1.26%) and 11 million ounces of

180 000 oz per annum to Harmony’s to-

our operations more predictable and

gold. Golpu has a potential mine life of

tal production at an estimated average

deliver and perform as planned).

at least 28 years and low operating costs

all-in sustaining cost of between US$850/

Regulatory uncertainty deters in-

once in operation. The feasibility study

oz and US$950/oz, with a life-of-mine of

vestment, which could impact the

results were announced in February

approximately six to seven years.

long-term sustainability of the mining

2016 and the special mining lease ap-

management (e.g. improve on oper-

• Commodity price and foreign cur-

Hidden Valley has an experienced

industry – and we will continue being

plication was submitted in August 2016.

management team that is driven to

involved in discussions on the laws

In South Africa, Tshepong is Harmony’s

turn around the performance of this

that govern the industry. Having said

largest gold producer, having produced

operation. In addition to the projects

that, though, Harmony has been op-

more than 160 000 oz in FY16 (15% of

mentioned above, Harmony has excel-

erating in South Africa for more than

total group production), and it has a

lent social and wellness initiatives - such

67 years and will continue to focus

life of mine of 19 years. We are currently

as the health hubs, which promote

on what we can control – safety,

assessing opportunities to integrate the

preventative healthcare and provide

production, grade and costs.

Tshepong and Phakisa (15% of total

on-site healthcare to our employees and communities; and various socio-economic projects that support community projects.

What are the company’s future plans?

Harmony’s aspiration is to grow from a 1.1 Moz to a 1.5 Moz gold producer by June 2019. Our first step to growth was to acquire full ownership of Hidden Valley and reinvest in the stage 5 and 6 cut-backs, which are expected to produce 180 000 oz per annum by 2018.

Harmony continues to focus on operational excellence – safety, cost containment and grade management remain key. In addition, we will invest in brownfield exploration in both South Africa and PNG, and the Golpu project is a potential game changer for Harmony.

10

Ins i de Mi n i n g au g / s e p t | 2 0 1 7

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QUALITY WORKS.

At LANXESS, quality means much more: we live quality. It’s at the very heart of our work. Quality means producing highperformance products that deliver on what is promised. We want our customers to be able to rely on us fully in all matters and at every stage of our chrome value chain. It is our commitment to our employees, customers, stockholders and partners. At LANXESS Chrome Mining (Pty) Ltd. quality means supplying the highest standard chrome ore for local and international use. From the first conversation to the perfect implementation. Fast, simple and efficient – fully in line with our motto “Energizing Chemistry”. Visit www.lanxess.co.za for more information.

Harmony

GIVING BACK

Corporate social responsibility is at the core of Harmony.

The company iterates its commitment to the sustainable socio-economic development and well-being of the communities in which it operates, promising sustainable community development leaving a lasting legacy long after the operations have ceased.

PlatiStone Community Project PlatiStone Kalgold has been appointed

by Kalgold to undertake the crushing of waste rock material for aggregate production; this project is in joint collaboration with the mine community.

The aggregate production process entails the crushing, screening and stockpiling of crushed material ready for collection by third parties.

Site establishment commenced in October 2016. This opportunity has enabled local communities to share ownership to the extent that the community owns a 10% free carry, with a 5% free carry for the locally sourced employees.

Doornkop Water Conservation & Agri Project Conservation of potable water is a priority at Harmony, considering the continued impact of the drought in Southern Africa. The company thought it imperative to improve the efficiency of water use for its mines. To this end, the Doornkop water treatment plant is treating water for internal use by the mine and for its agricultural project, which is producing vegetables in the near future.

Implementation of the Doornkop vegetable project is in progress. The project aims to use the potable excess water being treated at Doornkop water treatment plant to grow at least four different types of vegetables during the course of the year. Three sets of seasonal crops will be grown, including pumpkin, cabbage, spinach and beetroot. Other mixed vegetables may be added during the course of the year. The produce will be sold into Harmony’s Doornkop and Kusasalethu hostel and the remaining produce (approximately 95%) will be marketed and sold through a partnership with Royal Bafokeng and the appointed contractor.

LEFT Harmony’s olive nursery in Welkom

Welkom Agri Project An agricultural project being implemented within Harmony is the olive project. The purpose of the project is to establish a sustainable land-use agreement for rehabilitation and closure of the mining right that will also create an alternate form of employment within the region. The supplier for the project will be growing some 26 000 trees over the next few months. These trees can only be planted in September or October to avoid possible frost damage to the young trees in winter. The plantation has been sited within the St Helena mining right adjacent to decommissioned and rehabilitated sites.

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

13

CEO Talks

The world

is changing Russian mining company Norilsk Nickel (Nornickel) entered the African market 10 years ago, in the halcyon days of soaring nickel prices. CEO Michael Marriott reflects on how far the company has come. By Mpinane Senkhane

P

REVIOUSLY THE DEPUTY director

Inside Mining talks to Marriott, who

of Norilsk Nickel’s Overseas

discusses the company’s highlights,

Production Assets Department,

thoughts about the state of the mining

Michael Marriott, was appoint-

industry and future plans following litiga-

ed CEO of the company’s African oper-

tion issues earlier in 2017.

Nkomati Mine, located in Machadodorp, Mpumalanga

is certainly among the best; although,

Asked what his key to success is, Mar-

you can never claim to be the best, as

and palladium – in 2013. At the time,

riott responds: “I think it is about taking

there is always room for improvement,”

Marriott had already been a member

every component of your life and your

Marriott says, adding that he puts this

of the executive committee of Nkomati

business and continuously seeking op-

achievement down to attitude and

Nickel, the South African mine that was

portunities to do it better. With every

a sense of responsibility permeating

a 50:50 joint venture between Norilsk

single thing we do, there is a better way,

the business.

and South Africa’s African Rainbow Min-

a more efficient way – there is always

erals until Nornickel sold its share to BCL,

a kinder approach to the things that

Legal proceedings

the Botswana Government mining com-

we do in our business. This includes your

Earlier this year, Norilsk announced its

pany. Marriott was also on the board

home life, family, children, and all those

intention to commence legal proceed-

of BCL, in which Nornickel had a share

aspects – everything is interconnected.

ings against the government of Botswa-

before selling to BCL.

On the mine, you have to fill in these

na, regarding reckless trading of BCL

forms, you have all these checklists and

Limited and BCL Investments Proprietary

you have inspected this and ticked that

Limited. The company reached a deal

off – but they’re just a component of

with BCL to buy Norilsk’s 50% stake in

health and safety. It is mostly about your

Nkomati Nickel Mine as a joint venture

attitude,” Marriott explains.

between Norilsk and African Rainbow

ations – a producer of nickel, platinum

Marriott believes that the Nkomati

Minerals. The agreement was nearing

mine, located in the Machadodorp area

conclusion pending conditions. Marri-

of Mpumalanga, is one of the places

ott indicates that litigation and endless

where the culture has become inculcat-

court proceedings would not be ideal

ed. “Nkomati fares very well in terms of

for the company.

health and safety standards. The mine

“Above all else, we would like to know

has an exceptional safety record and

that we can resolve this issue preferably outside the courts. Once approval was received from the Department of Mineral Resources in October 2016, the assets

Michael Marriott, CEO of Norilsk Nickel Africa

of BCL were placed into provisional

CEO Talks liquidation. What we are now questioning is the number of interactions between BCL and various parties – that is always very complex. We still believe that the Botswana government is ultimately responsible for the affairs of its sub-

“I would like to believe that our metallurgical input at Nkomati has led to its processing side and business being remarkably efficient.”

sidiaries. We are actually calling on the government to come to the party and eventually

turnaround, and experts say that can be achieved by

have made in Botswana; we have introduced some new, interesting

opted to start legal proceedings in order

improving output per worker. “Mecha-

technologies – one of which is DMS

to resolve this,” Marriott explains.

nisation is the future of mining. The more

(dense medium separation). I would like

mechanised, the better. Mining is a dif-

to believe that our metallurgical input

ficult environment, so the more you can

at Nkomati has led to its processing side

The mining sector has seen a number

mechanise it, the more you can remove

and business being remarkably efficient.

of challenges in the last decade and

the risk to humans being exposed to the

It is well run and one of those processing

many argue these challenges are in

risks of mining,” says Marriott.

facilities that we all enjoy visiting

Change is everywhere

essence an opportunity for compa-

Admitting that perhaps, at first glance,

because it is clean and mechanised,

nies to become increasingly agile and

mechanisation can be perceived as a

and you can walk around the facility,”

flexible to the changing business envi-

way to cut jobs in the industry, Marriott

Marriott boasts.

ronment. Marriott agrees with this level

argues that there is more opportunity for

of optimism.

workers in this model, if you look closer.

“The world is changing, the business

“The mining industry is going that way

“Nkomati is a standout business in that you don’t see a lot of people around – it is very much remotely controlled. We

environment is changing, the minerals

and yes, machines do make fewer errors

are proud of the contribution we made

environment is changing, and thus we

than people. But there are a number

in driving the efficiency of the process-

need to change. The way we use com-

of examples in Australia, where they

ing business at Nkomati – it is world class

modities in our world is going through

have driverless trucks, which provided

and, most importantly, safe,” Marriott

a rethink and I think that is positive.

job opportunities in other areas.” He is

continues. Safety is high on the agenda

We need to adapt what we do in

convinced that autonomous mining is

for the business and Marriott is passion-

the mining industry to accommodate

the way forward.

ate about keeping workers safe in the

these changes.

“I think the fact that we have to be-

“There is definitely a place in Africa for autonomous mining. Autonomous

high-risk environment of mining.

“There are two components: the for-

come far more efficient, conducting

mining means becoming more efficient,

mal side of the business, which is your

business in a responsible manner, is key

which means you are able to mine and

operating guidelines, procedures and

but not good enough. We need to find

exploit more low-grade ore bodies than

the training of people; and then, over

new ways of doing what we do; we

possible when using expensive, inef-

and above that, is the attitude that you

need to be able to mechanise a lot

ficient mining methods. The only way

drive. You need to encourage the right

more of our business. We need to find

you can become more efficient is to

attitude, which rewards workers with

cleaner, more energy-efficient ways

become mechanised and make use of

a healthy and safe environment. Why

of doing business. The counter to that

new technology,” Marriott adds.

would I want it otherwise?” Marriott asks.

argument asks whether we are going to employ fewer people.

“I argue that, in the long run, it doesn’t mean you employ fewer people – it

Norilsk project highlights

He points out that Australian employees have the right to refuse to work in

In discussing strategy, Marriott says:

an unsafe environment, and Marriott

“We are proud of the contribution we

encourages this attitude towards safety

means that the people you do employ

across all projects. “This does not mean

are going to be much more technically

that you have to spend a lot of money,

educated, moving away from the la-

but you can’t expect an employee to

bour-intensive model,” Marriott asserts.

work in an unhealthy or unsafe environ-

The future is mechanisation

ment. Your attitude to health and safety is the most important thing,” Marriott

The African mining sector has made

continues. As for what the future holds

its intentions clear – its future lies in the

for the company, Marriott says Nornickel

mechanisation of its systems. For ex-

will be focusing on its Russian opera-

ample, amid unceasing labour turmoil

tions. “Right now, we are going to stick

in the mining industry in South Africa,

to our strategy because that is the right

mining companies have bought into the

thing to do for our business and our peo-

fact that their future lies in productivity

ple,” he concludes.

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

15

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legislation

Formalise the zama-zama? e arlier this year, police recovered

the bodies of 25 suspected illegal miners from a disused Harmony

Gold mine shaft. They were found

near the site of one of South Africa’s worst mining disasters to date – where 76 illegal miners died in 2009. In response to the growing number of zama-zamas working in mines, trade union federation Saftu has called on government to legalise their trade, train them and provide illegal min-

ers with the same rights and conditions all

The South African Federation of Trade Unions (Saftu) has called upon government to legalise the illegal mining trade, train illegal miners and provide them with the same rights and conditions all workers are entitled to.

Mpinane Senkhane explores the available options.

workers are entitled to.

Warren Beech, partner and head: Mining, Hogan Lovells, believes the most

position the country is in. It places people

my view. A good example of this is Ecua-

important thing is collaboration between

in such desperate positions that their way

dor, which has one of the biggest gold

big mining companies, government and

forward is to place themselves in one of

deposits in the world. Historically, the in-

the informal business of illegal mining.

the most difficult positions, working under-

dustry was made up of mainly small-scale

ground in this dangerous environment. So

artisanal miners – in other words, illegal

the industry for decades and the

I think it is a representation of where our

miners – but now they’ve gone towards

current economic climate and high

socio-economic situation is,” says Beech.

mature, large-scale mining – legally. They

unemployment rates have attracted

Locally, illegal gold mining costs govern-

put in place financial incentives and a

even more people to these disused

ment and industry more than R20 billion

programme of easier licensing, from both

mineshafts. This underground economy

a year in lost sales, taxes and royalties,

a mining and environmental perspective,

has robbed the industry and state

the Chamber of Mines estimated in an

as well as training on safety and so on. In

of billions of rand through small-time

unpublished document submitted to Par-

South Africa, we don’t need to reinvent

pilfering, as well as larger networks run by

liament in March.

the wheel. This is the model we need to

Illegal gold mining has plagued

organised crime. With output dwindling

“After extraction and refinement under-

adopt,” opines Beech.

by the day and minerals proving harder

ground, that gold does not go through

to extract, mining companies have

our formal gold systems; or, if it does, it is

important thing is that there needs to be

become increasingly frustrated.

getting mixed with our ‘legal gold’ and

an acknowledgement of what is now

when SARS loses out, we lose out as a

a reality for the South African mining

country on that value,” Beech states.

industry – especially considering that it

Big business Illegal mining is essentially a multibillion-

However, he believes the most

has a paramount impact on legal mining.

dollar transnational business empire with

Formalisation

its own financial targets, line managers,

“I have been a very big advocate of

is that this ‘industry’ can no longer be

security personnel and CEOs. The playing

formalising the trade, but of course you

swept under the rug.

field is spread over 6 000 disused gold,

cannot start talking about formalisation or

diamond, chrome and platinum

legalisation unless you acknowledge how

mines across South Africa. Beech

big a parallel industry this actually is. If we

says this empire is bigger than many

can formalise it, we mitigate the risk for

can even fathom.

the industry and also for the man under-

“From my perspective, it is relatively simple – the most recent deaths have once again highlighted the socio-economic

So, formalise or legalise? The bottom line

ground,” he explains.

We increasingly see media reports about illegal miners killed underground but, for the most part, the media hasn’t

“You cannot start talking about formalisation or legalisation unless you acknowledge how big a parallel industry this actually is.”

acknowledged the socio-economic implications and causes, or the communities that sustain this economy. “Legalisation is just a component of formalisation, in

Warren Beech, partner and head: Mining, Hogan Lovells

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

17

underground development

On the safety wavelength Wireless data and voice communication are critical safety factors for systems.

Christian Fimpler and Herbert Nüllmann of Eaton, Germany, investigate.

and transmission of a large package of safety-relevant information from the conveyor – such as emergency stop, gate and door monitoring, hoist blocked switch and slack rope monitoring. Moreover, it is possible to transmit radio system from Funke & Huster Bergbautechnik GmbH in Mülheim an der Ruhr, Germany, meets not only the explosion protection require-

the automatic drive system, and to send feedback to the conveyor.

Basic structure of the mine radio system

ments, but also the high technical and

The MR90 mine radio system has two sta-

functional requirements of the TAS Direc-

tions enabling bidirectional communica-

M

tive (Technical Requirements for Shaft

tion using individual omnidirectional an-

and Inclined Conveyor Systems, German

tennae. One of the two radio stations is

Regulations for Mines) in their entirety.

located on the conveyor, while the other

systems use radio systems

In addition to transmitting and re-

one is mounted close to the drive system

for data transmission and

ceiving data, the system includes an

and/or control room. In both housings,

voice communication to

integrated bidirectional voice connec-

there are two rear-frequency transmitters

and from the conveyor. These systems

tion, enabling communication with the

and receivers, one rear-frequency front-

have to fulfil the operational, climatic

conveyor operator. Thanks to its modular

end module connected to the antenna,

and safety-relevant aspects and re-

design and operating mode, this basic

one low-frequency interface for the

quirements of deep mining. Featuring

concept can be extended to 64 digital

connection of a microphone and loud-

explosion protection mode Ex ib I(in-

inputs/outputs and up to 16 analogue

speaker, as well as one data radio mo-

trinsically safe systems), the MR90 shaft

input values. This enables the collection

dem with corresponding analogue and

odern shaft conveyor

18

commands from the conveyor directly to

Ins i de Mi n i n g au g / s e p t | 2 0 1 7

underground development

binary input and output modules. By means of the location identification codes

designed in a way to ensure the quick

parameters (station address, telegram

and easy replacement of the antennae.

length, addressing and arrangement of I/O modules) are adjusted to have only

ments, the individual parts of the system

Basic operating mode and monitoring mechanisms

ing operation – i.e. one master station is

can be allocated clearly. An ANTM03/3

Electromagnetic waves in the shaft are

allocated to one secondary station.

antenna, developed by Funke & Huster

transmitted by antennae: one antenna

Bergbautechnik, is used as a shortened

is connected to the fixed station and

sion) of binary and analogue signals is

λ/4 antenna. The outstanding feature of

installed below the pithead, and the

effected by the MOD02 data radio mo-

this is its antenna gain optimised for both

second is connected to the conveyor

dem. The binary data stream is frequen-

transmission bands (27 MHz/35 MHz). A

station (mobile station/cage station) in a

cy-modulated and/or -demodulated ac-

perfect level is thereby ensured for trans-

place that enables perfect and uniform

cording to the FFSK procedure, as well as

mitting and receiving direction.

transmission quality.

transmitted and received via the 27 MHz

listed in the plant-specific circuit docu-

Depending on the local conditions

The MR90 mine radio system is a duplex

one defined point-to-point coupling dur-

The conditioning (serial-parallel conver-

and 35 MHz bands. The corresponding

and the received signal level values es-

system, which uses the 27 MHz band for

transmitters and receivers operate in a

tablished in several test runs, the anten-

transmission from the conveyor to the

frequency range of 26.5 MHz to 27.5 MHz

nae are mounted on suitable supports

fixed station (uplink) and the 35 MHz

and/or 34.5 MHz to 35.5 MHz. The input

on the conveyor and in the shaft. The

band for downlink transmission. These

circuits of the input modules used are

corresponding mounting devices are

frequency ranges were selected and

monitored for short circuits or conductor

defined for the transmission bands to

breaks to prevent errors in feed lines from

improve interference immunity, for ex-

causing incorrect information. Errors are

ample, regarding electromagnetic inter-

visualised using a diagnostic unit and

ferences generated by the frequency

transmitted to the respective remote

converters of the hoisting drives.

station as well.

The MR90 mine radio system

One high-frequency carrier is used for

The MOD02 data radio modem, featur-

transmission of voice from the conveyor

ing parameter setting (firmware), is de-

to the fixed station and back. The other

signed for multitask operation with up to

high-frequency carrier is used for the bi-

five tasks. If monitoring functions respond

directional (duplex) transmission of data

and/or alarm messages occur, a re-

between the conveyor station and the

sponsive rapid change of task levels with

fixed station.

short cycle times is effected to avoid an

In order to avoid ambiguity in bidirec-

accumulation of errors and to give diag-

tional data transmission between the

nostic messages. Data transmission from

fixed station and the conveyor station,

the fixed station to a master computer

achieve a fixed coupling between the

or PLC system is effected by serial data

partner stations within a conveyor sys-

transmission according to Specification

tem, and ensure separation from other

Mining Sheet BB22444 or Coupling Proce-

radio systems operated in the same shaft

dure RK512. The transmission of data us-

or adjacent shafts, the main transmission

ing digital or analogue input and output

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

19

underground development modules, operating in parallel, can be

equals a hamming distance of at least

protection and error monitoring of the

effected alternatively or additionally.

DÂ = 4 (three bit errors in a telegram frame

safety-relevant, bidirectional, serial tele-

can be detected). Operating the local

gram transmission.

Monitoring of radio data transmission

quires the connected module types to

technical as well as organisational as-

The MOD02 data radio modem used as

be prescribed and parameterised. The-

pects are of utmost importance too. This

the master (conveyor station) transmits

MOD02 detects whether the connected

is why the MR90 shaft radio system is de-

data telegrams periodically. Depending

I/O module actually complies with the

signed in such a way to exclude external

on the number of user data bytes to

parameterised type and address – for

or mutual interference by numerous ad-

be transferred, the cycle time is about

example, if the I/O module connector

justable allocation and coding options

I/O modules on the MOD02 modem re-

100 ms to 200 ms. If the secondary sta-

that protect remote data transmission.

Finally, it should be mentioned that,

tion receives a valid telegram from

due to continuous improvement in the

the master allocated to it, the secondary station itself starts the periodical transmission of data telegrams to the master. If no telegrams or incorrect telegrams are received for a period of 900 ms, only an error in radio transmission is reported to the process. The outputs of

In order to avoid mutual interference,

Due to continuous improvement in the system development, operational safety and availability are enhanced

the output modules are reset, the

system development, operational safety and availability are enhanced. Modern modem chips are able to repair parts of a defective radio telegram on the receiving side and thereby ensure further improved transmission safety/rate. Repeated telegrams are avoided.

Numerous interfaces enable simple

error is shown on a diagnostic unit and

connection to a variety of shaft con-

a corresponding output is connected

veyor systems and radio system di-

in parallel. The error signal is deleted/

is removed or defective, or if an in-

cancelled when the next telegram is

correct address is set. Additionally, if the

sation of all high-frequency components,

received without any errors.

electronic system of the I/O module is

the system is less susceptible to outside

defective, a module error (local I/O er-

interference. This is very important in

functions are monitored by secondary

ror) is detected. It is possible to show the

today’s age of mobile connectivity of

(software) tests with checks of the per-

error messages on a connected diag-

manifold devices and components,

manent and temporary memory (ROM/

nostic module.

since many different radio services and

The hardware used and the computer

RAM); in particular, data transmission is protected against faulty output by

Summary

toggle bit transmission and the detec-

Enhancing safety is a central theme of

tion of received errors by verification

the design and the MR90 shaft radio sys-

of telegram length and contents (e.g.

tem has been proved to be a reliable in-

parity or framing error detection), block

strument in shaft conveyance, which, on

check mechanisms (even parity, CRC

one hand, goes back to the analogue,

check), as well as the sending and verifi-

frequency-modulated radio transmission

cation of two start- and end-of-telegram

technology in the selected frequency

identifiers. The data transmission safety

range and, on the other, to the extensive

agnostics. Due to the further optimi-

electromagnetic interference sources affect the system.

www.eaton.co.za

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

21

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underground development

Engineering firms are continuously being challenged to meet tighter deadlines and cut down on costs in a very competitive construction and mining environment. André Boilard* discusses how DRA was able to make a success out of Whabouchi Mine within strict time constraints.

T

HE WHABOUCHI Mine is located

necessary pieces that would become

layouts, incorporating changes made

in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay

the concentrator in record time,”

since the Nemaska Lithium feasibility

region of Quebec. Nemaska

Boilard adds.

study was completed. Geotechnical

Lithium owns 100% of the claims,

reports, site surveys and clearing and

which encompass a combined open-

Methodology

pit lithium mine and concentrator.

First, DRA only approached five suppliers

cess roads to the site were built. Although

When global engineering group DRA

to bid for the structural steel supply

infrastructure was put in place quickly to

was awarded the Whabouchi Mine

and erection contract for the building,

receive the future concentrator, it was

project, the company was requested

based on the existing feasibility study

not without challenges posed by the

to have a building shell for the on-

layout already completed by the

various ecological and regulatory hurdles

site concentrator in place within six

Toronto-listed Nemaska Lithium. After a

associated with doing business in remote

months. This presented quite the chal-

rigorous analysis, Contructions Proco,

Northern Canada. “We had to work in

lenge, one shared by most if not all

with great expertise in steel construction

very difficult conditions, with tempera-

engineering firms looking to cut costs.

and metalwork and situated close by,

tures as low as -35ᵒC,” says Boilard.

“We had to be innovative right from

was selected.

the start,” says Boilard.

Second, DRA had to navigate the

grubbing were done and temporary ac-

“Furthermore, we encountered numerous unknown underground water

supply constraints of the local concrete

sources, had to excavate more rock than

been finalised and, of course, the

preparation plants. Plants in the area

originally estimated, persistently had to

layout had not been optimised and

were located too far from the site to sup-

follow up on permit requests and had

no one could confirm the final size of

ply the concrete to cast the foundations

to take hunting season into account as

the building. Site mobilisation had to

required for the project on such short

well.” However, despite the countless hin-

commence almost immediately, and

notice. The company collaborated with

drances that DRA came across in man-

getting everything in place was not an

precast concrete firm Béton Préfabriqué

aging the undertaking, the team was

easy task, as absolutely nothing was

du Québec to find a solution that would

able to install the first column foundation

prepared in advance.”

fit within DRA’s timeframe and meet

four months into the project, and the last

the required standards of the client. This

piece of wall siding was put in place nine

tiple fronts to try to save time, and

decision to manufacture prefabricated

days ahead of schedule, just before the

simultaneously, narrow its focus on

concrete foundations saved on time

Christmas break.

fewer, yet greater value-adding,

and money, avoiding the below-freezing

potential partnerships.

temperature constraints of the area and

“At the time, the flow sheet had not

DRA decided to proceed on mul-

“Collaboration and the sharing of information between the parties made it possible to design and fabricate the

“In engineering project terms, that has to be a record,” concludes Boilard.

reducing the on-site labour force.

At the same time, the DRA team was reviewing and optimising preliminary

*André Boilard is a senior project manager at Met-Chem, a division of DRA.

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

23

Minerals Processing

The error of

our ways a gold plant. While there are some good sampling devices on the market, which can take a good representative sample of the ore on a conveyor, the weight of sample required to arrive at an acceptable value of the Fundamental Error often makes the value of taking such a sample questionable – a sample of a manageable size is likely to produce an assay that has a very large degree of uncertainty associated with it.

Other common errors in plant sampling relate to the physical geometry of the sampling device, errors involving time lags and inefficiencies in sampling location. Regard-

The provision of data to establish a plant’s metallurgical balance is critical. Sampling is the only way to really do this, and that is why investing in systems of a high quality goes a long way, writes John Willis*.

ing the geometry of the sampling device,

S

ly suited to sampling a well-mixed liquid

AMPLING WITHIN A mineral processing operation serves two

most value from the data generated.

titative data for process monitor-

cessing plants being built by engineering companies coming from a petrochemical background, it is becoming common to find examples of samplers that are perfectstream, but which are entirely inappropriate

parts of the process that will provide the

critical functions: providing quan-

with the increasing trend of mineral pro-

Sampling errors

for sampling a slurry.

Considerations For slurry sampling, it is critical to sample

ing and control, and providing data to

Classic sampling theory defines seven

the entire stream rather than simply a por-

establish the plant’s overall metallurgical

sampling errors. These range from er-

tion of it; still, the best method for sampling

balance. As there is no other means of

rors fundamental to the material being

a slurry is to use a cutter cutting across a

generating this data, it is important to

sampled (bulk particle size, grain size of

falling stream. It is, therefore, important at

invest in sampling systems and protocols

the mineral of interest), to those relating

the design stage of building such a plant

that take high-quality samples in the

to how the material is presented to be

to ensure that streams needing to be

sampled (variations in time and space)

sampled are identified, and that sufficient

to those relating to how the sample is

space is allowed for such sample cutting

taken (how the sample cut is defined and

stations to be installed. This requires consid-

removed). A fundamental error is related

eration of the particular sampling equip-

to the weight of the sample that needs

ment to be used at the design stage.

to be taken. This weight increases with

An example of not taking time lags into

increasing crush size and with decreasing

consideration is where a sample is taken

grade, but decreases with increasing

ahead of a thickener to represent the feed

liberation of the mineral of interest. This

to the subsequent process; and so the time

error becomes particularly problematic

lag, which could be several hours, across

when sampling a coarse feed (such as

the thickener is ignored. Stockpiles and bins

the product from a primary crusher) in

present another time lag scenario; in this

*John Willis is the principal metallurgist at SRK Consulting, and has years of experience in the minerals processing industry for mining.

24

Ins i de Mi n i n g au g / s e p t | 2 0 1 7

Minerals Processing

subsampling stages, incorporating intermediate crushing stages to produce a manageably sized final sample from a high-volume coarse initial stream, while keeping to an appropriate value of the Fundamental Error. Such sampling stations are used on final loadouts for commodities such as iron ore and coal, where the sample taken is critically used to finalise contractual payment terms. Similarly, multistage slurry sampling stations are becoming available with intermediate mixed tanks, to ensure that the sample is homogenised throughout the sampling stages. Again, these stations enable the collection of a suitably sized final sample from a large-volume

Best practice in sampling for metallurgical accounting is based on the concept of “check in, check out” case, there is also the issue of homogenisation or segregation within the stockpile or bin to take into account – a sample taken from the stockpile or bin feed will likely bear little relevant resemblance to the material exiting the stockpile or bin.

As for the location of samplers, best practice in sampling for metallurgical accounting is based on the concept of “check in, check out”; that is, sampling the mass flow of the commodity of interest (e.g. gold) as it crosses a “transfer of custody” boundary, such as the feed of a plant and the different product (including tailings) points of the plant. As the mass flow of a commodity typically cannot be derived explicitly, rather relying on the assay of the commodity within and the flowrate of the whole process stream, it is important to locate both the mass flow measuring device and the sampler on the appropriate stream, and as close to each other as practical on that stream.

The other major consideration is what the sample is to be used for. Samples with no likelihood of degradation – e.g. an oxide ore in fresh water – can be left to collect over a period of time, such as a shift; however, if there is a risk of a chemical change that could affect the subsequent assay – e.g. when determining cyanide species in a tailings water sample – or where sulfides might oxidise with exposure to air, then the sampling protocol needs to make sure that these potential effects are minimised (e.g. sealed sample containers, rapid delivery of samples to the assay lab, etc.). Unfortunately, there is no universal solution to the sampling of such streams; the protocol in each case must be developed independently, taking the specifics of the process stream and the assay requirements into consideration.

Sampling hardware manufacturers are presenting more and more sophisticated and integrated solutions to the market. For coarse streams, these include systems with multiple

stream with minimal operator involvement.

While such devices can address the mechanical aspects of good sampling practice, they need to be part of an integrated approach, planned from the outset – the design of the plant, with the focus being on taking sufficient samples of high quality to meet the operation’s needs.

Minerals Processing

Knowing your mining conditions The varied and changing nature of coal orebodies should be top of mind for miners moving into new areas of operation, as the incorrect specification of feeder breakers or mineral sizers will lead to expensive challenges in coal processing down the line.

A high-capacity FLSmidth Buffalo feeder breaker

A

ccording to PC Kruger,

to take a long-term and pragmatic

capital sales manager at

approach with a total-cost-of-ownership

FLSmidth Buffalo, the ultimate

view in application selection. “The

compressive strength (UCS)

limitation of a feeder breaker is that

and the abrasiveness of material found in

it is not designed to deal with high-

a coal seam are among the vital indices

strength material,” he says. “It is well

that miners need to understand before

suited for most underground mining

they can be confident of identifying the

conditions where the coal is relatively

right equipment for their needs. “One of

soft and homogeneous. However, in an

the challenges in the Witbank coalfields,

environment where there are regular

for instance, is that most of the ‘easy’

hard rock intrusions, these machines

coal seams have been mined, and what

will not operate at their best; you’ll

remains tends to include a high level of

generally want to opt for sizers in this kind

hard rock intrusion as well as tramp

of application.”

material such as steel, wood and concrete,” says Kruger. “If a mine owner has

sider when specifying equipment for the

not developed a detailed characterisa-

primary sizing stage, versus the second-

tion of the ore, it is possible to under-spec-

ary and tertiary sizing phases.

ify when choosing breaking and sizing equipment.”

Coal mining in this region is increasingly

ger. “In secondary and tertiary sizing, it is the required throughput rate that usually

mid-market ranges of feeder breakers

dictates your model selection. pieces of coal will be coming from the

under way on previously mined under-

pit, and that these could measure as

ground bord-and-pillar mines; this means

much as 1 000 mm in two or three di-

that the pillars of coal are stripped out,

mensions,” he says. This suggests that a

bringing with them a substantial portion

large and robust sizer is called for; even

of rock. The very different compressive

if a mining operation has relatively low

strength of the coal relative to the intru-

throughput – say, 500 tph – the user may

sive rock creates a particular challenge

still need a large-scale sizer if the largest

when it comes to breaking and sizing.

size of their coal lumps warrants it.

Managing intrusions

only 0.5% of the feed to the plant, so

“By way of comparison, the UCS of coal

there may be other ways of dealing with

ranges from about 40 MPa to about

them rather than over-specifying the

60 MPa,” he says. “Laboratory tests

equipment and incurring high capital

conducted by subject matter experts

expenditure. “It is, therefore, worth-

in the Witbank region over a number of

while for low-throughput operations

decades have found that some rock

to address the presence of large coal

of accurate UCS data that can inform the design and specification of the right equipment; feeding material of over

Ins i de Mi n i n g au g / s e p t | 2 0 1 7

“The customer usually knows that large

In some applications, there is strip-mining

strength.” He emphasises the importance

26

machine you need to install,” says Kru-

is in the 300 tph to 800 tph range, so the

intrusions easily measure up to 210 MPa in

Buffalo reclaim feeder and ABON sizer

“In primary sizing, the top size you want to crush usually dictates the model of

conducted by junior miners whose output

and mineral sizers are more in demand.

An FLSmidth

There are also different criteria to con-

200 MPa into a machine designed to break 40 MPa material is clearly going to lead to problems. Therefore, it is critical

However, these sizes may constitute

The ultimate compressive strength of coal ranges from about 40 MPa to 60 MPa

An FLSmidth ABON sizer

lumps in the ROM material, to explore

words, a large

ways of generating smaller lumps in the

chunk of material with

mining phase,” says Kruger. This may

dimensions of 1 200 mm in two

call for an investigation into blasting or

or three dimension can realistically

pre-scalping methods that can lead

only be reduced to about 300 mm in size

to higher fragmentation, for instance,

in the primary phase.” The ratio in the

ensuring that the top size of ROM coal

secondary sizing stage is 3:1, which can

is kept within a certain maximum size

take this 300 mm coal down to 100 mm;

they do not

that a medium-range mineral sizer

in the tertiary sizing stage, a ratio of 2:1

pass cleanly

can accommodate.

is the norm, breaking the material down

through the rotors,

further to the -50 mm size that the end

and cause undue wear

user usually requires.

on the rotor teeth and other

Reduction ratios

“Trying to operate outside the

Another critical consideration in spec-

components.” Bending these

ifying equipment for coal processing is

boundaries of these reduction ratios

reduction-ratio rules can result in

the principle of reduction ratios in each

invariably leads to increased wear

product building up on the sizers, chutes

stage of sizing.

and running costs,” he says. “Putting

becoming blocked, extreme wear

“In reality, these principles give us

oversized material – say, larger than

patterns, and chain feeders causing

‘the rules of the game’ and need to

150 mm material – into a tertiary sizer

carry-back. This inevitably causes major

be carefully observed,” he says. “In the

designed for 100 mm material, prevents

failure of expensive components such

primary sizing stage, the ratio between

the positive ‘bite’ that breaks the

as gearboxes. He warns against the

the input size of coal and the output

product down. Instead, the size and

temptation to try and short-cut the sizing

size will be around 4:1 to 5:1. In -other V:\!BMG\#Jobs\Adverts\2017\072017\BMG-PT19072017 Inside Mining.cdr geometry of the pieces mean that

process by reducing the sizing stages.

Wednesday, 19 July 2017 2:50:06 PM Color profile: Disabled Composite Default screen

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IT & Communications

Sink or swim

Struggling with commodity prices, declining ore grades and operational challenges, local miners have no choice but to focus on achieving operational excellence to buffer against declining margins. Inside Mining explores the digital options available to the market.

C

reating operations that

intelligent management of people,

Ditton says there is already a willingness

are interconnected digitally,

material and assets within the execution

for an increased partnering approach

and built on processes ena-

of the mine plan. Workforce tracking

with technology suppliers among South

bled by data to deliver re-

is the current priority, with 94% of South

African mining companies. The momen-

sponsive and agile operations, is critical.

African mining companies highlighting

tum behind cloud investment in mining is

More productive, efficient and sustaina-

this, but this top priority will change to ore

accelerating, with the number of com-

ble ways of extracting value from miner-

tracking and management over the next

panies not using the cloud in South Africa

als, while at the same time enabling safe

couple of years.

declining from 31% to 14% in two years.

and productive workplaces, is possible.

“Many South African mining companies

“Mining organisations in South Africa are

are already working closely with their IT

leveraging cloud technology to drive

value on their data, but the transforma-

suppliers to improve network connectivity

growth, bring down costs and offer cen-

tion required is about truly enabling the

above and below ground to allow for the

tralised functions and controls, which, in

“It is not new that miners are placing a

data to control, manage and respond to

turn, will enable greater standardisation

the operation. Companies must enable

of operations across different locations.

processes and decision-making

“Going forward, South African mining

beyond the operational silos

companies must focus on operational

endemic within most mining companies,” explains Emilie Ditton, research director: Worldwide Mining, IDC. “Third platform technologies such as the cloud, mobility, analytics and social

Workforce tracking is the current priority, with 94% of South African mining companies highlighting this

excellence, business simplicity and a holistic approach to digital mining initiatives,” she says. “Mines generate enormous amounts of data, but the key here is being able to use it to inform ongoing change and improvements. Mining companies

networking can enable companies

need to ensure that the right infrastruc-

to cut costs, improve productivity and

ture, capabilities and governance are

find room for innovation. Couple this

in place to allow them to use the data

with innovation accelerator technolo-

deployment of remote sensors that can

gies such as the internet of things (IoT),

be used to monitor everything. Moving

Enabling greater simplicity within the

3D printing, cognitive processing and

forward, bringing together ecosystems

business is important. Mining companies

next-generation security, and these or-

of suppliers, enabling IoT capabilities

need to ensure that their processes are

ganisations will be able to reinvent their

across OEMs, networking providers, IT

as simple as is practical to enable col-

business processes to support agile and

services companies and operational

laboration, improved decision-making

dynamic operations,” says Ditton.

technology vendors will be required to

and the creation of value.

Doing what it takes

create that capability. The technology

embedded in all their processes.”

“Finally, they need to ensure that digital

capability will change but so will the way

mining initiatives are considered holis-

A critical component of the transfor-

that mining companies need to engage

tically if they are to extract true value

mation is enabling the connected and

in the vendor ecosystem,” she says.

from them,” says Ditton.

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

29

Health & Safety

Digging deeper for wellness

S

With large numbers of employees within the mining industry becoming ill or incapacitated each year due to lifestyle conditions and occupational injuries, access to intuitive healthcare cover can go a long way to support productivity in the workforce.

Mpinane Senkhane engages Mark Arnold on this.

outh Africa’s prosperity is intertwined with that of the mining industry, and the health of the workforce that supports it. This is

the view of Mark Arnold, principal officer of Resolution Health Medical Scheme,

mining companies. According to the

“Resolution Health recognised the power

which has been serving the mining indus-

Chamber of Mines, since 2000, the value

of preventative healthcare solutions and,

try for over a decade.

of empowerment transactions has grown

therefore, a range of preventative screen-

to R205 billion in 2014 money terms. “On

ings and vaccinations are available from

es Development Act (No. 28 of 2002),

the other hand, the industry, which is

participating Foundation Network health-

which enshrines equal access to mineral

fraught with change and challenge, has

care providers,” he explains.

resources, has opened the doors to

also reportedly lost as much as 10% of its

meaningful participation of previously

workforce in 2015 and 2016 with some

live with chronic conditions are empow-

disadvantaged people in the exploration

40 000 jobs being shed. This means that

ered and supported to keep them health-

and exploitation of mineral resources,”

a great deal of skill and experience has

ier while maximising the benefits they are

Arnold notes.

been lost to this industry.

entitled to.”

“The Mineral and Petroleum Resourc-

“When the act was passed, there was

“Each individual workplace has dif-

“In addition, members under care who

only one junior mining company but,

ferent challenges when it comes to the

Productivity at the coalface

by mid-2008, this had grown to 21 junior

health and well-being of workers, which

Lizette Bester, executive at Agility Corpo-

ultimately impacts on profitability. This

rate, agrees that worker health is central

holds particularly true for South Africa’s

to supporting South Africa’s miners, but

junior mining companies, many of which

argues that underlying causes that may

are nowadays working within increasingly

impact on the health of a workforce need

tight margins,” he adds.

to be addressed in order to make a mean-

According to Arnold, years of experience and research in the industry, where Resolution Health has established

ingful and sustained difference to overall worker productivity.

“While most mines have their own health-

itself, have indicated that the greatest

care programmes in place, particularly the

challenges in terms of worker health in

larger mines, high rates of illness and chron-

the mining sector are often preventable

ic disease among mineworkers have cre-

or manageable.

ated the need for additional support and wellness services to keep the workforce healthy and productive,” Bester adds.

Mark Arnold, principal officer, Resolution Health Medical Scheme

30

Ins i de Mi n i n g au g / s e p t | 2 0 1 7

Agility Corporate has adopted employee wellness solutions that can stand alone or

complement an employer’s existing programme. The service is intended to cater to the health needs of the entire workforce, regardless of the nature of their employment, from top management to unskilled labour. Bester advocates a holistic approach, incorporating a comprehensive disease management programme, in tackling the challenges of worker well-being for lasting improved productivity in the mining sector.

“It is imperative that valued staff members with chronic conditions remain on their medication and be empowered with information to keep themselves healthy. In addition, employees cannot simply leave their worries at the door when going to work, and it is well established that sources of stress can negatively impact on job performance. Such services can work particularly well in companies where there is a medical scheme in place.

“What we are striving for is a preventative healthcare programme supported by an effective, multipronged approach to wellness that is of considerable assistance in managing risks in the mining sector. The Agility Corporate approach is to analyse the context to determine the interventions that could best address problems threatening the health and work performance of employees at a particular workplace,” explains Bester. As part of this service offering, Resolution Health Medical Scheme provides healthcare cover for employees, and anonymous data drawn from a company’s medical claims provide insights to guide proposed interventions.

Employees who are members of the scheme also have ac-

Realising possibilities from mine to market.

cess to the Employee Well-being Programme (EWP), providing access to basic financial, legal and psychological counselling over the phone with relevant external experts. These services have the potential to significantly assist individuals in mitigating a range of common pressures, which can help to offset the potential harmful effects of stress on existing health conditions.

“One of the trends we identified in the mining industry is that employees all too often fail to comply with established safety

Resource Evaluation

Mine Planning

Mining & Mine Development

Materials Handling

Environment & Approvals

Transport to Market

Non-Process Infrastructure

measures, with some workers choosing not to wear the protective clothing provided by their employer. By introducing workshops and various practical measures, we look to positively reinforce safety measures; thereby reducing the risks employees were exposed to in terms of occupational diseases and

Mineral Processing

Tailings & Waste Management

Smelting & Refining

injuries,” notes Bester. A considerable financial benefit for employers making use of such solutions is that the risk mitigation measures implemented can be presented to the underwriters of the company’s group risk insurance provider(s) with a view to negotiating a reduction in premiums – thereby reducing the costs associated with employment.

WorleyParsons adds value through our full scope of services from pit to port including studies, mine planning, impact assessments, permitting and approvals, project management, construction management and global procurement.

“We not only seek to prevent loss of productivity through our extensive holistic and cost-effective healthcare service offering, but are also looking to develop and implement creative solutions that will help employees to perform at their best, thereby contributing to better overall performance. Through implementing meaningful, multifaceted wellness solutions, healthcare expenses and absenteeism can be substantially reduced,” concludes Bester.

Our Mining Centre of Excellence in Johannesburg has niche expertise in underground and open cast mining and provides quality project development and engineering solutions for small to large projects across all areas of base metals, the coal supply chain, chemicals, ferrous metals, alumina, aluminium and iron ore.

Supported by the WorleyParsons global group, we pride ourselves on customising solutions for local environments and committing to our customers’ goals.

The greatest challenges in terms of worker health in the mining sector are often preventable or manageable www.worleyparsons.com

wprsainfo@worleyparsons.com

Specialised rescue

Mine rescue in the future The mining industry’s determination to improve the safety of its employees requires intervention beyond just enforcing legislation. For this reason, drones may gain momentum in the mission to achieve the Chamber of Mines’ goal of zero harm. By Phila Mzamo A drone has the ability to fly from a safe location, and has live video streaming capability, so a bird’s-eye view is achievable

are constantly looking for ways to safely improve safety on mines. When accidents do

M

ining risks on-site may arise

drones seem to be the future of special-

provide services that are sometimes not

ised mine rescue. “Operated either au-

humanly possible.

tonomously based on a preprogrammed

process and associated

Mine rescue and transitioning with technology

large-scale mining ac-

With the growing size, depth and com-

out of the general mining

new technological advancements; and

occur, technology can step in and

flight plan or by remote control, unmanned aerial vehicles are now being deployed in Africa for a variety of mine rescue missions,” says Smartlink.

tivities, or from more specialised activ-

plexity of mines in South Africa, mine res-

ities – from aspects specific to certain

cue missions are now going beyond ba-

Legal limitations

precious stones, fossil fuels or metal ores

sic infrastructure for mine rescue efforts.

Many countries already have drone reg-

extraction processes. Although risk-mit-

More and more African countries – like

ulations, and more and more countries

igating measures have been set out

South Africa, Rwanda and Malawi – are

are following suit. “Drone regulations

by the Mine Health and Safety Council

now finding very innovative ways to use

are put in place as a safety measure, as

and institutes like the National Institute of

technology to deliver essential services

drones are effectively sharing airspace

Health, the scale of mining that occurs in

and lifesaving solutions to mines.

with manned aviation, and there is

South African mines makes industry risks

According to Devon Hasenbroek,

obviously an inherent safety concern.

inevitable. With a steady decline in min-

sales manager: Mining at Rocket Mine,

Operators need to abide by strict rules,”

eral pricing impacting on the profitability

remotely piloted aircraft systems (i.e.

says Hasenbroek.

and sustainability of mining operations

drones) are emerging as an alternative

throughout the world, mine operators

for specialised rescue in the mining in-

Hasenbroek, may seem like an inconven-

dustry. “Drones in the mining industry are

ience but they are there for the safety of

a huge emerging market, and can be

miners, mine workers operating in mines,

used for surveys, inspections, and sur-

rescue personnel and for the public who

veillance, among others. There is great

may be affected.

The rules and regulations, according to

opportunity for drones, especially as

“I believe having an airborne live video

infrastructure for rescue missions in re-

feed is a huge advantage to make quick

mote locations.” According to Smartlink

and good decisions when an incident

Consultancy, public-private partnerships

occurs. A drone has the ability to fly

are being formed to provide these ser-

from a safe location, and has live video

vices to the general populace. Mines

streaming capability, so a bird’s-eye view

have had to be innovative and adopt

is achievable. Better decisions can then be made based on live information,”

Dr Sizwe Phakathi, head: Safety and Sustainable Development at the Chamber of Mines, and Devon Hasenbroek, sales manager: Mining at Rocket Mine

says Hasenbroek. “Using drones in mining can reduce the number of personnel in the working areas of a mine. The pilot can stand at a safe, remote location. It

Specialised rescue “The Chamber of Mines’ objective is to reach a position of zero harm and our commitment is unflinching.”

Health and Safety. He explains, “The most common risks of injury and

is a safer and most probably a more viable option for mine rescue, especially in South Africa’s deep mines,” he adds.

Safety first

fatalities are usually resulting from fall of

industry has made such great strides in

ground, and transport- and machinery-

recent years. The industry must double its

related accidents. Government reviews,

safety initiatives.”

passes and enforces legislation that

Phakathi adds that the industry must rely

miners have to adhere to in order to

on technology, mechanisation, automa-

limit these accidents. In some cases, the

tion, and upskilling the mining workforce

Department of Mineral Resources closes

to reduce such risks on mines.

the affected sections or a whole mine

“Prevention is better than cure, thus the

Dr Sizwe Phakathi, head: Safety and

if accidents occur by issuing Section 54

context and causes of catastrophic inci-

Sustainable Development, Chamber

and 55 notices. “The Chamber of Mines’

dents that result in fatal accidents require

of Mines South Africa, explains that the

objective is to reach a position of zero

a different approach, such as effective

only way to safeguard against mine

harm and our commitment is unflinching.

identification of critical controls for effec-

accidents and fatalities is to comply with

Mine fatalities declined to 73 during 2016,

tive management of fatal risks. It is for this

the Mine Health and Safety Act (No. 29

a 5% decline from 2015’s statistics, but

reason that the CEO Zero Harm Task Team

of 1996), implement company initiated

we have not yet reached our target of

was established, leading mine health and

occupational health and safety strategies

zero harm. It is of particular concern that

safety from the top, in order to achieve

and industry milestone initiatives from

there was an increase in fall-of-ground-

the 2024 milestones on occupational

the tripartite Summit on Occupational

related fatalities, an area where the

health and safety,” he concludes.

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

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33

JHB Indaba 2017 210x275-2.pdf

1

2017/07/24

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Chris Griffith, CEO, Anglo American Platinum

Sipho Nkosi, Non-Executive Chairman, Talent10

July Ndlovu, CEO, Anglo American Coal South Africa

Philip Barton, CEO, De Beers Consolidated Mines

Roger Baxter, CEO, Chamber of Mines of South Africa

Mike Teke, Founder and Chairman, Masimong Group

Lucky Kgatle, Senior Vice President, Sasol Mining

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Norman Mbazima, Deputy Chairman, Anglo American South Africa

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EVENTS

Junior Indaba

Lessons from legends

C

HAIRPERSON BERNARD

Zuma has failed to uphold the

Baxter joined in the constructive

Swanepoel welcomed

Constitution and respect his oath of

engagement by explaining his

delegates at this

office. Phosa concluded by saying

vision and the proactive initiatives

year’s Junior Indaba

that a redefinition of our economic

of the Chamber of Mines. He also

event. He noted the absence

strategy, which incentivises the

expressed his disappointment

of the Department of Mineral

private sector and foreign investors

that the Department of Mineral

Resources and said that it was

who create jobs in the short term,

Resources had not yet gazetted

a first for the event, as there has

should be top of the agenda. He

the Revised Mining Charter. He

been more participation from

said the industry has to regain the

said that it would have given the

the ministry in previous years.

confidence of investors and stop

various panel discussions a lot

Nonetheless, the Junior Indaba

changing the rules of the game.

more to discuss and unpack. He

kicked off with Dr Mathews Phosa’s

Chamber of Mines’ comment

government can do to regain

Other career experiences, words of

only work with stakeholder buy-in.

investor trust in South Africa’s

wisdom and industry insights came

He said, “The problem with our

mining industry. Phosa said, “At

from Mike Teke, president of the

regulatory environment is that it

the very least, South Africa needs

Chamber of Mines South Africa and

has completely deteriorated to

to establish new leadership,

founder of Dedicoal, and Roger

the point where it is unworkable.

and implement changes in the

Baxter, CEO of the Chamber of

“Juniors do not have the capacity

economic policy.

Mines. Under the theme, ‘There is

to deal with the regulatory com-

life after mining, and it is mining’,

plexities of the industry, so the

consensus between all

Teke encouraged junior miners

Chamber of Mines will be engag-

stakeholders on how to revive

to get their hands dirty, and start

ing government on this.

‘radical economic transformation’,

looking further than just being

and not merely throw around

called junior miners.

*Since the gazetting of the

this term,” he added. Phosa told

“There is an abundance of re-

Revised Mining Charter, the

delegates that President Jacob

sources and opportunity, so what is

Chamber of Mines has taken the

stopping junior miners from succeed-

Department of Mineral Resources

ing?” he asked. “If you want to grow,

to court, to demand the charter’s

you need to consolidate; you need

implementation be suspended.

to think beyond the borders of South

The department published a

Africa. “For how long will you be

moratorium notice – a plan to

known as junior miners?” he added.

suspend new mining rights.

The industry has to regain the confidence of investors

President of the Chamber of Mines South Africa

did, however, express that what-

keynote address on what the ANC

“The country should build

Mike Teke

ever form the charter takes, it will

Dr Nakedi Mathews Phosa

ANC National Executive Committee member

Roger Baxter

CEO, Chamber of Mines

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

35

EVENTs

Electra Mining Botswana

attracts top names Botswana is the most attractive economy for investments flowing into the African continent, according to the latest Africa Investment Index 2016

by Quantum Global Research Lab. This makes the country the perfect destination for this year’s Electra Mining exhibition.

L

EADING LOCAL and international

according to the latest Africa Investment

suppliers to the mining, industrial

Index (April 2017), by the Quantum Global

and power generation sectors

Research Lab. Out of 54 African countries,

have embraced the business

Botswana has placed first and scores

growth opportunity that the much antic-

highly across a range of categories such

ipated Electra Mining Botswana event

as credit rating, current account ratio,

presents in the region. Komatsu Botswa-

import cover and ease of doing business.

na, Atlas Copco Botswana, Hansen &

Commenting on the Index in the Africa

Genwest, Cummins SA, Phoenix Contact,

Investment Review (Q2 2017), Milton

WorleyParsons RSA, Haas Factory Outlet

Delo of Quantum Global Research

CNC Machine Tools SA and Redpath

Lab states: “Botswana has a high

Mining South Africa are among the

ranking on the business environment

many companies that will be exhibiting

factor due to the relatively efficient

at this year’s show, which will be taking

legal and regulatory environment,

place at the Gaborone Fairgrounds

which is conducive to smooth business

from 12–14 September.

operations. Second, the country has

The Botswanan Ministry of Mineral

a relatively low risk profile as depicted

Resources, Green Technology and Energy

by the credit rating, current account

Security (formerly the Ministry of Minerals,

ratio and import cover.” The show aims

Energy and Water Resources) has

to be the premier showcase of current

endorsed Electra Mining Botswana again

and developing technology, new

this year. Support has also been given

products, equipment and machinery,

by the Botswanan Chamber of Mines

and the latest systems and services.

and the South

Electra Mining Botswana looks to enable

African Capital

visitors to connect with leading service

Equipment Export

providers, industry business leaders and

Council, both of whom will be exhibiting. Botswana has recently been ranked as the most attractive economy for those interested in investing in Africa,

government representatives.

With access to technical expertise, the opportunity to view live demonstrations of products and equipment, and access to the free-to-attend seminars, visitors will gain valuable knowledge and insight, which will assist them in their own businesses.

In sid e M in in g aug/se pt | 2017

37

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MARKET news

market news

from around the continent Screen improves processing production Faster, more aggressive screening technology is allowing mine processing contractors to push production to new levels and radically shorten processing times on behalf of their clients in the mining industry. According to Neel Rademeyer, founder of Two Pedestrians Mining, the screening process is at the heart of production to provide the optimal production and sizing for the final processing or stockpiling of product.

The company has employed a newly acquired Powerscreen Warrior 1400X mobile screen for high-volume applications, where its heavy-duty processing power is able to make short work of run-of-mine materials, even in rough terrain where its mobility

simplifies the load-screen-dump cycle.

“The machine has been a revelation in terms of its versatility and work rate. This is important as it means it can be deployed to a wide range of mining types wherever there is a requirement for mobile operations to work through large volumes of materials, whether it be coal, ore or aggregates,” says Rademeyer.

Arno Swart, operations manager at Two Pedestrians Mining, adds that due to the machine’s high ground clearance, it is able to tram quickly to keep up with production. The high running position also lends itself to a cleaner operation with no need for ramps to access underneath the machines. “The conveyor height

allows us to stockpile materials up to 4 m high, which significantly enhances its ability over previous models.

JP Durandt of ELB Equipment, and Arno Swart, manager, Two Pedestrians Mining operations

3D scanning capabilities for mining

Chute Systems uses 3D scanning technology to ensure high-quality results

Companies that offer 3D scanning should have the in-house ability to process and effectively utilise the data in a mining engineering environment; however, not

all do. Managing director Mark Baller says Weba Chute Systems’ 3D scanning capability is the ideal solution for predetermining new equipment design for accurate integration into existing infrastructure, as well as for creating an accurate preliminary design and costing in the early feasibility stages of a project.

“Being able to obtain accurate measurements from a safe distance in the shortest time allows us to inspect and survey large infrastructure in detail and allows us to consider all elements in play when replacing and repairing customers’ equipment,”

says Baller. “From this data, we can generate 3D models from on-site conditions and conduct accurate reverse-engineering.”

Weba Chute Systems uses 3D scanning technology to ensure high-quality results.

This minimises rework costs in design and manufacturing, and reduces downtime during installation.

Baller says that 3D scanning offers far greater accuracy than manual measuring, enabling the creation of graphic and dimensioned reproductions of large, complex structures in great detail.

BI offers complete OLI range The entire product range of world-leading electric and pneumatic vibrator manufacturer OLI is now available locally from Bearings International (BI).

In a commitment to providing the best

Vibrator range: Originally specialising in immersion vibrators for concrete consolidation, OLI is now the global leader in vibration technology

38

Ins i de Mi n i n g au g / s e p t | 2 0 1 7

products locally, Lewis Hiepner, product manager at BI, explains: “Originally specialising in immersion vibrators for concrete consolidation, OLI is now the global leader in vibration technology.”

OLI has three main divisions offering optimal solutions for all requirements.

Industrial Vibrators focuses on vibrating equipment, Flow Aids looks at problems of flowability, and Concrete Consolidation specialises in reliable and efficient concrete compaction. With a centrifugal force of up to 26 000 kg, and with multiple voltage options, the OLI range is suited for a range of applications. “It is part of our strategy of being a total solutions partner

Lewis Hiepner, product manager, BI

for our customers, in stocking some of the best products and brands from around the world, and OLI definitely falls into this category,” Ross Trevelyan, head: Product and Engineering, BI, comments.

BI is a member of the Hudaco Group and is a leading distributor of bearings and power transmission products in Southern Africa.

Cable tapes increase safety

Detectable warning tape helps to ensure that power lines are not accidentally cut or damaged, which disrupts the power supply

Equipment and systems specialist Powermite and sister company Proof Engineering are bringing to market cable and connector solutions for mining and industrial applications.

The company’s rugged range of TPU mining cables with flexible Class 5 tinned annealed copper wire conductors has been specially designed to withstand the hazardous conditions typically found in open-pit mining.

The copper-screened mining cables’ rugged design, which incorporates a tough sheath, reduces the risk of cable damage and extends component service life. “The resultant low maintenance leads to increased uptime and improved productivity for the end-user,” says Donovan Marks, director, Powermite. “In addition, the cables’ orange/silver reflective tape, under an outer extra-heavy-duty

ICEA S-75-381-compliant TPU jacket, ensures easy identification, especially at night, which increases personnel safety and reduces the risk of cable damage.”

The cables’ insulation consists of an ethylene propylene thermosetting compound and features a strippable, semi-conducting core screen (triple extruded). The core assembly comprises three tinned copper/ nylon braid screened power cores and three unscreened pilot cores.

“The cables are also suitable for underground reeling applications,” concludes Marks.

Re

8

th

ANNUAL

se

ar

ch

ed

&

D

ev

el

op

ed

MINERAL RESOURCES COMPLIANCE & REPORTING CONFERENCE

23 & 24 August 2017

coNFirMed sPeaKers •

INDABA HOTEL, FOURWAYS, JOHANNESBURG

AGGREGATE & SAND PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA SASOL MINING HERBET SMITH FREEHILLS SOUTH AFRICA LLP SHEPSTONE AND WYLIE ATTORNEYS SANUSHA GOVENDER ATTORNEYS INC JANICE TOOLEY ATTORNEYS

• • • • •

• • • • •

MINOPEX (SUBSIDIARY OF DRA GLOBAL) FOSKOR SASOL MINING RIGHTS AND PROPERTIES, SASOL MINING (PTY) LTD. ANGLO AMERICAN UMSIZI SUSTAINABLE SOCIAL SOLUTIONS

DMR PARTICIPATION TO BE CONFIRMED

Key strategies to be discussed: • • • • • • • •

B

A legal analysis of the Mining Charter Amendments Understanding compliance implications and financial provisions in line with the One Environmental Systems and NEMA Measures to consider, to align yourself with the new proposed Mining Charter Bringing your SLP in line with the Objectives of the MPRDA and Mining Charter Challenges faced by the mining sector in terms of ownership equity and possible solutions Making sense of compliance complexities Addressing the ethical considerations when engaging with mine communities and the processes followed to ensure compliance Promoting optimal participation of the HDSA into the economy in line with the MPRDA requirements

For more information contact Zakhele on +27 (0) 11 326 2501 or email bookings@intelligencetransferc.co.za

y:

EVENTs

Mining Charter compliance With the Revised Mining Charter put on ice pending judgment in an urgent interdict application by the industry, it would still serve the industry well to understand the charter if/when it is implemented, to ensure compliance.

F

or this very purpose, the Intelli-

and making sense of compliance com-

Investment Advisory Services, Foskor, Umsizi

gence Transfer Centre has aptly

plexities. In addition to the above, two

Sustainable Solutions, Aspasa, Herbert Free-

designed the 8th Annual Mineral

informative workshops will take place.

hills South Africa LLP, Shepstone and Wylie

Resources Compliance and

One will focus on ‘Investment in Mining’,

Attorneys, Sanusha Govender Attorneys

Reporting Conference. The conference

and is to be hosted by Warren Beech,

Inc and Janice Tooley Attorneys.

will serve as a platform to assist industry

partner and head: Mining, Hogan

and stakeholders with tools to ensure

Lovells. The other will cover ‘Aligning the

South African conference company head-

compliance with the charter, as well as

LED and SLP with IDP Projects’ of munici-

quartered in Johannesburg, and boasts

look into possible solutions towards chal-

palities, which will be carried out by Jeff

regional offices in Durban and Namibia.

lenges created by the charter. Key issues

Rademeyer, acting director, Rustenburg

This ETDP SETA and Level 1 BBBEE accredit-

that will be focused on include a legal

Local Municipality.

ed company is seen as a progressive indus-

Intelligence Transfer Centre (ITC) is a

Other confirmed speaker companies

analysis of the Mining Charter Amend-

try analyst within the conference arena,

ments, looking at measures to consider

include: Anglo American, Sasol Min-

providing conferencing and training based

aligning yourself with the new charter

ing, Mineral Advisory Services, Mineral

on extensive market research.

Electra Mining Botswana

Sandvik Mining

ABOUT THE PROPOSED MINING CHARTER •T he Chamber of Mines SA has said it is opposed to the Department of Mineral Resources’s (DMR) Mining Charter as it “attempts to subvert those objectives by the unlawful publication of instruments which purport to give effect to such objectives but in fact undermine them”.

• It further noted that should the DMR’s Charter be implemented in its current form, it will “destroy the very industry whose survival is necessary to give effect to the objects of the MPRDA.”

index to advertisers Atlas Copco

36, LI

16

Babcock IFC

Joburg Indaba

34

BME 22

LANXESS South Africa

12

BMG 27

Mineral Resources

39

Dosetech 37

Model Maker Systems

25

Eaton Electric South Africa

SBS Water Systems

28

Wirtgen 11

6

WorleyParsons 31

ELB Equipment

40

OBC

20 2

Ins i de Mi n i n g au g / s e p t | 2 0 1 7

Schneider Electric South Africa

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