MBA May / June 2023

26 - 27 JUNE 2023 THE INTERCONTINENTAL PARK LANE LONDON www.londonindaba.com

Brought to you by the organisers of the Joburg Indaba, the inaugural 2023 London Indaba will focus on Africa’s critical role in the minerals and metals of the future; why the world needs more, not less mining; and why Africa is important to the future of mining and mining important to the future of Africa.

Chaired by Bernard Swanepoel, critical questions to be discussed will include: • How are the world’s governments incentivising future metals and minerals and what are the implications for Africa?

• How is investing in critical minerals and metals “different”?

• What does the energy transition and a growing global population mean for mining and mined products?

• What is the future role of PGMs in a low-carbon economy?

• What will be the role for copper in future applications?

• How will gold continue to be relevant in the future?

• Is there a place for coal in meeting energy needs in the short term?

• The little understood role of manganese – why is it critical now and in the future?

• What are the drivers behind the latest developments in battery chemistries?

• And much more…

2023 Speakers include:

Minister Nusrat Ghani MP Minister of State at the Department for Business & Trade and Minister of State for the Investment Security Unit, UK

Scott Woodard Acting Director, Office of Energy Transformation (ETR), Bureau of Energy Resources (ENR), U.S. Department of State

Robert Friedland Founder, Non-Executive Director and Chairman Ivanhoe Mines

Rohitesh Dhawan President and Chief Executive Officer ICMM

Neal Froneman Chief Executive Officer Sibanye-Stillwater

Simon Thompson Senior Adviser Rothschild & Co London and former Chairman Rio Tinto

Natascha Viljoen Chief Executive Officer Anglo American Platinum

Nico Muller Chief Executive Officer Impala Platinum

Dr Ndoba Joseph Vibetti Chief Executive Officer ZCCM Investments Holdings Plc

Premium Sponsor:

Mining Industry Partners:

+27 (0) 11 463 7799 // +27 (0) 61 421 9492 // registrations@resources4africa.com The 2023 London Indaba, investing in resources and mining in Africa is brought to you by Resources 4 Africa, the organisers of the Joburg Indaba.

CONTENTS

May - June 2023

Editor’s Note

06

Will Uganda Buck the Resource-curse Trend?

T 20 Cover Image: Feluwa’s displacement pump.

COVER STORY: PG 12 Meeting Evolving Needs and Driving Innovation

Carl Hamm, a leading supplier of industrial pumps and valves, has partnered with Feluwa, a specialist in displacement pumps for demanding applications.

Customers in industries such as mining, chemical and dewatering, to cite a few, can expect to benefit from the high-quality, reliable, and efficient solutions provided by Carl Hamm and Feluwa.

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he world is watching in awe as Saudi Arabia and Qatar are disrupting the conventional model of sponsoring highly acclaimed sporting brands. These countries are pouring money in barely credible digits of money.

It wouldn’t have got more odd than paying top dollar for soccer icons in the twilight of their careers.

Of course, that wouldn’t have been possible without exploiting their God-given resources optimally and making the best use of the proceeds. Undoubtedly, oil and gas have given citizens of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman, a livelihood their peers in most countries of the world only wish for.

This is notwithstanding their contentious human rights records. In all fairness, rooted in a unique culture, the citizens of these countries wouldn‘t swap the good life their resource has given them with the Western concept of human rights.

In contrast, citizens of resource-rich African countries wish they did not have oil and gas resources at all. As these resources have invited untold misery upon them.

If it is not becoming a piggybank of some dictator with his next of kin, it is triggering chronic civil wars –pitying one tribe against another, or political instability.

Presently, as Uganda is joining the exclusive club of resource-rich countries, the continent is observing the developments with keen interest.

Listen Uganda, the world is watching. Are you going to buck the trend of the archetypal African-resource rich tragedy? The onus is entirely on you!

Nick Barnes

editor@miningbusinessafrica.com

TEAM Editor Nick Barnes editor@miningbusinessafrica.co.za +27 10 055 3356 Web/Sub-Editors Jimmy Swira Jimmy@miningbusinessafrica.co.za + 27 10 055 3356

Susan M. susanm@miningbusinessafrica.co.za Sales and Marketing Winnie Sentabire winnie@miningbusinessafrica.co.za +27 83 530 6832 | +27 10 055 3356

Anita Anyango anyangoanita18@gmail.com

Angeline Ntobeng angien@miningbusinessafrica.co.za + 27 078 322 5938 + 27 010 055 3356

Contributing Writers Chantelle C. chantellec@miningbusinessafrica.co.za + 27 10 055 3356

Accounts Precious Chirunga accounts@miningbusinessafrica.co.za + 27 10 055 3356

Art Director/Layout Augustine Ombwa Arobia Creative Consultancy austin@arobia.co.ke +254 772 187 334 Circulation/Sales info@miningbusinessafrica.co.za + 27 10 055 3356 Published By Media Icon (Pty) Ltd

Media Icon (Pty) Ltd makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the contents of its publications, but no warranty is made as to such accuracy and no responsibility will be borne by the publisher for the consequences of actions based on information so published. Further, opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by Media Icon (Pty) Ltd. Location: Max Offices Sandton, 145 Second St., Parkmore Gauteng 2196, South Africa

www.miningbusinessafrica.co.za

FEATURE

Mineware Consulting expands its offerings

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ineware Consulting, a bespoke software development company, specializes in reporting and management software for modern mining operations, serving the Mining industry within the African continent and beyond.

More than 6000 users across 40 operations are logged in each day, accessing relevant data and making decisions based on up-to-the-minute tracking and reports.

Software packages cover mine pain points such as health and safety, survey and evaluation, production management and sampling, as well as a newly developed risk management module.

Mineware has also recently rolled out its latest software solution for open-pit mining operations.

Challenges One of the challenges facing all modern mining operations is the sheer number of moving parts that need to be monitored and coordinated on a daily basis, often leading to large gaps in data monitoring. Mineware’s software ensures the efficiency of this process by drawing relevant live data from various departments into one user-friendly interface. This data can then be analyzed by relevant managers and personnel and used to mitigate risk and utilise resources effectively.

Software Options The Mineware flagship Syncromine software package brings the big guns to bear on any

www.mineware.co.za 2 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

mining operation’s sticking points. This software offers functionality and reporting capabilities across the board, from human resources to production and planning. Big data captured through real-time monitoring from various sections within the mining operation can provide essential insights and be translated into specific short-interval controls as well as longer-term strategic plans.

Mine Management Software

Mineware Consulting We use data to solve problems Software packages cover health and safety survey and evaluation production management risk management and sampling.

Mineware software uses digitization and reporting to break down operational and data silos within any mining operation.

Make better decisions in real-time with Mineware.

+ 27 11 888 2116

info@mineware.co.za

www.mineware.co.za

FEATURE

Health and safety should be considered one of the top priorities of any mining venture.

Any safety issues that force a shutdown can negatively affect the bottom line, and take their toll on the human resources department and individuals at risk. This safety-focused software package can be customized to suit any client’s requirements and greatly enhances safety control over all levels of an operation.

Digitization and reporting offered by Mineware software can help to break down operational and data silos within a mining operation, facilitating oversight and improving people and process efficiency.

Survey and evaluation Mining operations have an obligation to determine the size of their ore body and lease area, as well as the projected amount of ore that will be mined. All mining operations therefore, whether on the surface or underground, need a reliable survey package. Mineware’s survey module assists in this crucial process, capturing and displaying relevant survey data in a realtime, graphic interface that is easy to analyze and understand.

exploration, resource estimation, grade control, or plant design and balances. Poorly designed sampling protocols can result in elevated project risk by increasing variability.

Knowing the extent of your ore body, as well as plotting your reserves and planning operations is crucial for any mining operation wishing to function effectively and within budget.

Mineware’s custom-designed Survey and Sampling software modules are designed to make this process seamless

Production management The Mineware production module for Open pit and Deep level mines, streamlines and automates the planning that is needed for licence to mine. It hosts production information such as workplace creation, short-term planning, stores ordering and budgeting, daily bookings, tramming and hoisting, sampling values, survey actuals as well as fleet planning, all in one easy-to-use interface. The production module integrates the planning and booking modules, although they are also available as stand-alone packages. This software improves the speed and quality of monthly planning, resulting in greater transparency and improved production performance in real time.

Focusing on clients The Mineware strategy is one of partnering with clients and developing longstanding collaborative engagements. The nature of their expertise is transportable across industries and covers the full spectrum of mining-related consulting services beyond the typical project-based intervention. By providing ongoing maintenance and support their team adds exceptional value well beyond the initial engagement.

As the mining industry, both locally and internationally, navigates a challenging global environment characterized by market volatility, shifting demand, and rising operational costs, the need to embrace automation and digital innovation becomes ever more important for the future of the sector, and Mineware is here to assist.

Sampling The mining industry routinely collects samples to assist with decision-making, whether for

www.mineware.co.za 4 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

FEATURE Materials handling

Designing Transfer Points in Processing Plants Designing transfer points to effectively handle sticky materials is crucial for optimising material flow and minimising downtime.

Transfer chute designer is seen meticulously scrutinising calculations with the aim of ensuring a highly efficient and viable solution.

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andling sticky material in mining and minerals processing plants can be a complex challenge. These materials can cause blockages, equipment wear and increased maintenance requirements, leading to reduced efficiency and increased operational costs.

This is according to Alwin Nienaber, Technical Director at Weba Chute Systems, who says that designing transfer points to effectively handle sticky materials is crucial for optimising material flow and minimizing downtime. “There are a number of key design considerations for transfer points and it is for this reason that EPCM contractors and end-users should work closely with specialist companies such as ourselves who have the requisite expertise and legacy knowledge to deal with complicated materials transfer.”

An important consideration is material flow control, which Nienaber explains is crucial to avoid blockages and build-up of sticky materials within chute systems.

“This is where chute geometry plays a significant role in handling sticky materials, with experience informing the design of a chute to minimise impact forces and reduce material degradation. Minimising is also important, and this can be achieved through the use of wear-resistant materials such as ceramic tiles or

rubber linings, and further extend the service life of transfer points while reducing maintenance requirements,” he says.

Nienaber says it is also important to control moisture levels when handling sticky materials.

Excessive moisture can exacerbate the stickiness of materials, leading to increased build-up and blockages. Implementing moisture control strategies, such as proper drainage systems, dust suppression or material conditioning systems, can help maintain optimal

moisture levels and improve material flow.

Material segregation and excessive particle size can also contribute to sticky material challenges at transfer points. This, he says, is where implementing strategies to minimise material segregation, such as proper stockpile management and the use of blending systems, can help maintain consistent material properties.

“Additionally, reducing particle size through controlled crushing or screening can help improve material flow and reduce the stickiness of the material,” Nienaber adds.

Viewing transfer points holistically should also include attention to other aspects in materials handling such as belt cleaning systems which are vital for preventing carryback and will also reduce material build-up at transfer points.

Installing primary and secondary belt cleaners, along with belt tracking systems, can ensure that belts are free from sticky material carryback.

This not only reduces the chances of blockages but also minimises belt wear and extends belt life.

“Implementing well-thought-out design strategies from an experience transfer point OEM can certainly assist mining and minerals processing operations to optimise material flow, reduce equipment wear and maintenance requirements, and ultimately improve overall efficiency and productivity,” Nienaber concludes.

The efficient transfer of iron ore is being executed by two Weba head chutes.

Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023 5

FEATURE Hydraulic crawler drill rigs for mining projects

Dependable, Productive and Safe Drilling Available at JMH Equipment, REL and SOOSAN CSM hydraulic drill rigs have earned a reputation for dependability and productivity with their exclusive operator safety features and ergonomics.

The company has built a reputation for delivering customised turnkey solutions, which encompass the full range - from Drill machines, Drill strings and Onsite Management.

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imultaneously, there is consistent demand for drilling equipment and consumables to be used in projects. Prominently, one of the products in high demand is drill rigs.

Prudence in procurement JMH Equipment is a reputable supplier of a wide range of drilling equipment to clientele involved in projects in Southern Africa. High-quality Hydraulic Crawler Drill Rigs is one of its popular product ranges.

Based on its extensive know-how, JMH Equipment advises mining companies to exercise prudence when procuring drill rigs for critical tasks. “Mistakes in selection can result in the purchase of a product with higher owning and operating costs. That’s why a mining company has to exercise prudence in procurement decisions,” Maurits Holtzhausen, the JMH Equipment’s Director, emphasises, as he informs the mining industry about the REL

6 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

and SOOSAN CSM hydraulic crawler drill rigs that the company has in stock.

REL hydraulic crawler drill rigs REL hydraulic crawler drill rigs are equipped with custom features to meet exact requirements for lowering owning and operating costs.

Moreover, the drill rigs have future-ready provisions for converting to autonomous options.

Turnkey solutions Through a turnkey approach, JMH Equipment can deliver suitable solutions in their REL and SOOSAN CSM drill rigs to the customer.

Holtzhausen guarantees that the company can supply the full range from Drill machines, Drill strings and Onsite Management to give the customer full control of the cost per metre. “To reach the optimum equilibrium between top performance at the lowest possible cost, we test continually for the best solution on the drill, the

right shape and the type of tungsten carbide for the application. Most importantly, any aspect where there is room for improvement we will do it.”

Delivering the correct solution Scrupulously, JHM Equipment services and satisfies the unique needs of every client, providing the correct hydraulic crawler drill rig solution. Asked how it achieves this complex task, Holtzhausen demonstrates, “First and most important of all is to do a site visit with the customer to establish what their goal is, what material they are dealing with, and the hardness of the rock to be mined. Then we can propose the right equipment together with the right GET to reach their goal at the lowest cost possible.”

Suitable rigs, preferred partner By and large, Holtzhausen suggests that customers should consider choosing JMH

REL hydraulic crawler drill rigs are equipped with custom features

Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023 7

FEATURE

Equipment as their preferred provider of drill rig solutions, in addition to adopting REL drill rigs for a hydraulic drill for their requirements.

On the suitability of REL and SOOSAN CSM drill rigs, Holtzhausen comments, “REL and SOOSAN CSM drill rigs have earned a reputation for dependability and productivity with their exclusive operator safety features and ergonomics.”

On why JMH Equipment should be their preferred partner, he stresses: “We believe in working closely with our clients to achieve optimum safe and cost-effective performance in drilling. Whatever your requirements are - Standard or Custom, Simple or Rugged, advanced and automated, you can always depend on REL and SOOSAN CSM.” Well–equipped for Africa What is more, as a South African-based company, JMH Equipment is well-equipped to cater for African countries in terms of service, support and parts supply as and when needed.

Holtzhausen explains that this is a great advantage to the customer: “We understand the customers’ needs in terms of parts availability and that preventing standing time is essential.

We do whatever it takes wherever it needs to happen.”

Since 2007, JMH Equipment has been supplying drilling equipment to customers in Southern Africa, mainly South Africa, Namibia and Botswana. The company aims to grow its product footprint in 2023 in African countries.

What are Suitable hydraulic crawler drill rigs?

M

ining companies or contractors involved in mining projects should be conversant with the features of suitable hydraulic crawler drill rigs for their respective project needs. Specifically, Holtzhausen advises them to consider the following features when shopping around for drill rigs: • Drilling capacity: The drilling capacity of a rig is determined by its drilling diameter and depth capabilities. Mining companies should choose a rig that can drill the required hole size and depth needed for their specific mining operation.

• Mobility: Hydraulic crawler drill rigs are mobile and can move around the mining site easily. Companies should consider the terrain of the site and the rig’s mobility requirements when selecting a rig.

• Power source: Hydraulic crawler drill rigs are typically powered by either diesel engines or electric motors. Companies should consider their power source requirements, such as the availability of electrical power or fuel availability when selecting a rig.

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•

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Durability and reliability: Mining operations are often demanding and require rugged equipment that can withstand harsh conditions. Mining companies should select a rig that is durable and reliable, with a proven track record of performance.

Safety features: Safety is a top priority in mining operations, and hydraulic crawler drill rigs should have appropriate safety features, such as emergency stop buttons and automatic shut-off mechanisms.

Maintenance and serviceability: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping hydraulic crawler drill rigs operating efficiently. Companies should select a rig that is easy to service and maintain, with readily available spare parts.

REL and SOOSAN CSM drill rigs meet all the above-mentioned attributes. JMH Equipment’s commitment to bending over backwards to serve customer needs.

Constant innovation

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hrough constant innovation, REL‘s product offering has remained abreast of continuously changing industry needs.

True to form, the company is about to unveil innovations to the market. These include Auto levelling, One-touch drilling, Semi– Autonomous, Fully – Autonomous and Remote – Autonomous drills. emergency stop buttons and automatic shut-off mechanisms.

8 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

•

Maintenance and serviceability: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping hydraulic crawler drill rigs operating efficiently. Companies should select a rig that is easy to service and maintain, with readily available spare parts.

REL and SOOSAN CSM drill rigs meet all the above-mentioned attributes. JMH Equipment’s commitment to bending over backwards to serve customer needs.

SOOSAN

Office: +27 87 135 1097 E-Mail: mholtzhausen@gmail.com +27 82 448 8002

FEATURE Integrated Pumps and Valves Solutions for Industries

Meeting Evolving Needs and Driving Innovation Carl Hamm, a leading supplier of industrial pumps and valves, has partnered with Feluwa, a specialist in displacement pumps for demanding applications.

Customers in industries such as

mining, chemical and dewatering, to cite a few, can expect to benefit from the high-quality, reliable, and efficient solutions provided by Carl Hamm and Feluwa.

C

arl Hamm is a leading supplier of industrial pumps and valves, with a long history of providing high-quality solutions for a range of industries. Carl Hamm’s parent company is based in Germany, the company has a global presence and a reputation for innovation, reliability, and customer service.

Complementary sets of expertise Recently, Carl Hamm announced a partnership with Feluwa, a specialist in displacement pumps for demanding applications. This partnership promises to bring together two complementary

12 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

sets of expertise and provides even more comprehensive solutions for customers in a range of industries.

Carl Hamm’s pipes, pumps and valves Carl Hamm’s product range includes a wide variety of pipes, pumps and valves designed for use in challenging environments, from high-pressure applications to those involving corrosive materials.

Carl Hamm’s solutions are used in the dewatering, Acid Mine Drainage (AMD),

agricultural and mining industries, as well as in power generation, water treatment, and more.

The company is known for its commitment to quality, and its products are manufactured to the highest standards using the latest technology and materials.

Feluwa’s displacement pumps Feluwa, based in Germany, specialises in displacement pumps that are ideally suited to high-pressure applications and those involving abrasive, corrosive, or viscous materials. The company’s pumps use a unique operating principle that combines the benefits of a diaphragm pump with those of a piston pump.

This results in a high level of efficiency, reliability, and durability, making Feluwa’s pumps an ideal solution for a range of demanding applications.

The partnership’s significant impact • Mining One area where the partnership is expected to have a significant impact is in the mining industry / Mud pumping / Tailings dams.

Mining operations often involve pumping large volumes of abrasive or corrosive materials over long distances, which can be challenging for conventional pumps. Feluwa’s displacement pumps are ideally suited to these applications, and the company’s partnership with Carl Hamm will enable the two companies to offer complete solutions for mining customers, including piping, valves, and other components. Carl Hamm’s expertise in pipes and other components will compliment Feluwa’s pump technology, enabling the two companies to offer complete, integrated solutions for customers’ specific requirements.

•

Chemical & Petrochemical Industries The partnership is also expected to benefit customers in the chemical and petrochemical industries. These industries often involve handling hazardous materials, and the reliability and durability of pumps and valves are critical for safety and efficiency. The combination of Carl Hamm’s pipes and Feluwa’s pumps will provide customers with a complete solution for these demanding applications.

•

Product Development & Innovations In addition to providing customers with a more comprehensive range of solutions, the partnership between Carl Hamm and Feluwa is expected to result in new product developments and innovations. Both companies are committed to research and development, and the pooling of resources and expertise is likely to lead to new products and solutions that meet the evolving

needs of customers in a range of industries.

An exciting development Overall, the partnership between Carl Hamm and Feluwa is an exciting development that promises to benefit customers in a range of industries. By combining two sets of expertise and providing complete solutions, the two companies are well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of customers and to drive innovation in the field of industrial pumps and valves. Whether in mining, chemical, dewatering or other industries, customers can expect to benefit from the high-quality, efficient and reliable solutions provided by Carl Hamm and Feluwa.

For more information, contact Desmond Enslin at +27 83 556 4642 / desmond@ carl-hamm.co.za or visit their website www.carl-hamm.co.za.

Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023 13

FEATURE Proficiency testing for mining-specific laboratories

Effective Proficiency Testing, Credible Results The sure-fire way by which minerals testing laboratories can enhance the credibility of results from the sampling and analysis of respective commodities is through engaging reputable providers of Proficiency Testing (PT). Recognising the relevance of PT, Qotho Minerals assures potential and existing clientele that it is up to the task.

I

n the current mining environment, ascertaining the feasibility of implementing a project to guarantee a return on investment during the Life Of Mine (LOM) has become imperative. The practical way of realising this is through access to accurate data gathered from laboratory samples of respective commodities.

Naturally, with more projects being launched, there is increased demand upon laboratories to deliver reliable analytical results. In order to achieve this, laboratories have to meet requisite Proficiency Testing (PT) requirements - and engaging reputable providers of mining-specific proficiency testing solutions can facilitate this.

The preferred provider Based in Madibeng 30 minutes west of Johannesburg and Pretoria, Qotho Minerals has established itself as the preferred provider of PT solutions to mineral industry laboratories in Africa and beyond. The company has been and remains ISO 17043:2010 accredited for PT schemes, since 2017. Its scope of accreditation encompasses elements of the periodic table, expressed as metals, oxides, or other substances as well as their physical properties.

Its current commodity base extends to fifteen commodity groups which include Base Metals, Ferrous metals, Heavy Minerals and Precious Metals.

Based on its extensive experience and proven relevant track record, Qotho is guaranteeing to the potential clientele that it is well-resourced to meet their respective PT needs. In a brief article through Mining Business Africa, Dr Hannelie de Beer, Managing Director of Qotho Minerals, highlights the significance of PT in analytical laboratory QAQC and the approach that has turned it into the preferred service provider.

Relevance of PT Solutions To underline the significance of engaging a reputable company, de Beers cites two critical purposes that PT serves in laboratory operations – enhancing the credibility of results and identifying areas of improvement.

•

Enhancing the credibility of results Firstly, PT programs aim to ensure that laboratory results are accurate and reliable, which is essential for making informed decisions about mining operations. Particularly, this is important in the mining industry, where even minor inaccuracies in laboratory results can have significant consequences for resource estimation, mine planning, and mineral processing.

On how PT programs enhance the credibility of results, Takudzwa Tsapayi, Qotho Minerals Operations Manager, elaborates: “The worst thing for any geologist, metallurgist or the marketing department is to doubt the credibility of the results they receive from their laboratory.

For this reason, participation in regular, accredited and Independently Operated PT programmes is key to developing and ensuring a trusting relationship between the laboratory and the end-users.”

• Identifying areas of improvement Proven proficiency testing programs can also help laboratories to identify areas where they may need to improve their processes or procedures. By participating in proficiency testing schemes, laboratories can benchmark their performance against industry standards and identify areas where they may fall short.

This can help laboratories improve their processes, reduce errors, and, ultimately, produce more reliable results.

Undoubtedly, the relevance of using proven proficiency testing programs for laboratories in the current environment cannot be overstated.

Qotho’s innovation to meet demand Qotho Minerals is meticulous in its approach to designing PT programmes. This is evident in its choice of specific concentrate samples and open and continuous communication with the client.

Designing sample concentration ranges Usually, samples used in a PT program for a

14 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

commodity must be fit for purpose and meet the industry requirements. To that effect, the industry sponsors all samples used in the Qotho PT programmes. In particular, when industries have specific issues or requirements, they sponsor appropriate materials to ensure their needs are met.

Qotho’s approach Qotho Minerals ensures that mineral samples are relevant, reliable and acceptable for use within laboratories. de Beer details the company’s approach: “Through continuous and open communication with current or prospective clients, we ensure that our PT menu meets industry requirements. We will be informed where additional requirements are identified. In turn, we will engage with the remainder of the participants within a particular program to gauge the willingness and capabilities of the greater group to meet these requirements.”

Enhancing quality control measures Qotho Minerals is devoted to quality assurance in the delivery of PT. However, it is worth clarifying that both the client and Qotho have a part to play in ensuring that the analytical outcomes meet the expected quality standards.

Qotho does not dictate to the laboratories which analytical methodology they should utilise when analysing its PT samples. Such is the case since it is assumed that the laboratory itself is conversant with best practices. Ultimately, the choice of the methodology is at the laboratory’s discretion.

Usually, the evaluation of its performance in the PT programme will steer laboratories to improve their procedures and enhance their quality control measures, should they underperform, states de Beer. “Tracking their

performance over time will soon enough highlight trends and flag biases and systematic errors within the laboratory. Random fluctuation of performance, beyond the acceptance criteria, will also alert a laboratory to the fact that they may have gross random errors within their facility.”

On its part, Qotho goes all-out to adhere to international quality standards in a specific sample range that it produces. On how the company accomplishes this, Tsapayi illustrates: “Key to a successful PT sample and program, is material homogeneity. As a PT provider, it is critical to ensure that each test item (within a batch) is deemed practically identical.

Therefore, appropriate blending and sub-division methodologies are critical to ensure that we can ultimately demonstrate that the batch of samples is homogeneous. Whilst not that relevant within our product profile at present, the stability of the material throughout the PT round must also be guaranteed. Where the material characteristics can change, clear instructions must be provided to participants, on how to deal with the samples, before analysis (e.g. drying to ensure no moisture has been gained in transit).”

Continuous improvement Clients in the mining industry need to cope with challenges and expect service providers of laboratory services to be up to the task of

enabling them to cope and be sustainable.

Cognisant of that, Qotho’s expansion of PT offerings is guided by technological developments and the resulting change in demand for different commodities within the industry.

Furthermore, as part of its quality policy, the company is devoted to continuous improvement of its operational processes and the way it engages with clients. Therefore, the company embraces the continuous developments and advances within the electronic and digital sphere, to provide user-friendly solutions to its clients.

Up to the task There are multiple PT providers within the minerals industry - a situation which gives endusers (laboratories) access to a wide choice of service providers. However, despite this healthy competition, de Beer believes Qotho’s Offering is up to the task, standing out from two perspectives.

Firstly, she explains: “What makes our offering unique is that our programs are planned well in advance, the participants are guaranteed between 2 to 6 rounds per year and the timeframe for each round is clear – from date of sample shipment to date of the release of the PT report. Planning is done more than a year in advance.”

Moreover, being pre-planned assists laboratories to plan their proficiency testing participation, to ensure that they comply with the requirements of ISO 17025. Underscoring the convenience of this approach, de Beer says, “It is difficult for any laboratory to plan their compliance if they do not know when and how many samples/rounds they can expect in any given calendar year.”

Continuous programme development

Q

otho is continuously expanding its PT offering to the minerals industry.

Guided by industry trends, as well as enquiries and requests from within the industry, the firm continuously plans new programs. The aim is to launch at least one new program per annum.

True to form, over the last eighteen months, three new programs have been launched – vanadium chemicals, heavy mineral sands and zinc.

Currently, Qotho circulates more than 2500 PT samples per annum, covering 15 commodity groups and 37 sample types.

Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023 15

FEATURE Smart Satellite Services for the mining life cycle (Life of Mine)

Smart Satellite Connectivity for High Service Availability Q-KON Africa’s Twoobii, mining-specific Smart Satellite Connectivity Service, has proved to be an effective alternative communications medium in conditions where microwave and fibre may not work in mining operations. In addition, the service meets the need for high service availability. Encouraged by the industry’s positive response, the company is keen to increase the service‘s footprint in Africa. effective way to ensure almost round-the-clock uptime and connectivity.

Relevant, industry-specific solutions On how Twoobi delivers a relevant, industryspecific service, de Wet says: “In Twoobii, we have created a Smart Satellite Service technology to meet the requirements for these markets, understanding each sector’s specific needs, security requirements and network applications. Our services are suited for fixed, transportable, and mobile applications.”

Twoobii Smart Satellite Services is compatible with all the Mining IT applications, systems and processes.

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ining operations need a reliable wide range of fixed, mobile and portable communications that use a wide variety of available technologies, for instance, fibre, microwave, radio and satellite.

Unavoidably, there are times when options like microwave and fibre may not be available.

This could be either because the location of the mining operation is too remote to be connected using fibre and microwave or because of other constraints.

If these scenarios arise, only satellite services are an option. In particular, a layer of Smart Satellite Services adapted to the current requirements has proved feasible.

Twoobii smart satellite services option Provided by Q-KON Africa, Twoobii, a southern African-supported satellite broadband service, has become a popular smart satellite services option for industrial and mining operations, business, and the financial segment. Dr Dawie de Wet, Group CEO of Q-KON Africa and Chief Engineer for Twoobii points out this is because the Twoobii broadband service fills the gap

capably, due to its convenience, which delivers expected value.

Filling the gap When no other medium is possible, or very high service availability is necessary, then only satellite can meet the requirements. de Wet demonstrates how Twoobii fills the gap, “The Smart Satellite Services offered by Twoobii ensure that the satellite broadband connection will be compatible with all the Mining IT applications, systems and processes. In addition, requirements such as real-time video, voice and data applications will be met.”

Massive value delivery Twoobii’s convenience dispatches massive value delivery to the mining life cycle (Life of Mine) on two fronts.

First, as a satellite broadband service, Twoobii is available anywhere and has high reliability, as well as offers flexible pay-per-use packages.

In addition, Twoobii can be used as a primary or backup service when primary communications are down. This is also a cost-

16 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

Widely used Q-KON Africa regards the wide usage of Twoobii services as a testament that it is an essential option. Thus far, its Twoobii services are currently widely used in the industry with specific reference to all leading financial banks for trusted communication, as well as for remote mining operations for video surveillance and plant operational control.

Staying abreast Looking ahead, Q-KON Africa is aware of the rapidly changing needs of the mining sector in the field of communication technologies. Hence, by staying abreast of contemporary needs, the company is committed to continuously creating relevant and industry-specific solutions.

Extensive experience and unfaltering dedication

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roup CEO of Q-KON Africa and Chief Engineer for Twoobii, Dr Dawie de Wet (Pr. Eng. M.Sc. Eng.) has over 30 years of experience in designing, engineering, developing and implementing wireless, microwave and satellite communication systems in Africa. With this extensive know-how, coupled with unfaltering dedication, Dawie continues to focus on developing Telco solutions that meet the user requirements of emerging markets through world-class leading technology.

Unearthing the Advantages of Smart Satellite Connectivity in the Mining Sector An end-user perspective on features, applications and benefits Satellite telecommunication services are a specialised form of technology that serves specific user requirements for specific applications. Unlike fibre networks, they are not, and were never meant to be, default solutions for mass deployment. As a result, they are not commonly used by large Telco’s and service providers. Within the field of satellite connectivity, Smart Satellite Services were developed specifically for the financial, business and now mining industries. But what exactly constitutes Smart Satellite Services and why are they so necessary for certain sectors?

Why Smart Satellite Services?

Satellite communications is a relatively “old” technology with the first deployments implemented in the 1960s.

Before undersea and terrestrial cable networks were installed, satellite services were used for international communications between continents and between countries in Africa. Then, as more and more fibre networks were implemented, users began to see satellite services as slow, expensive and constrained by transmission latency.

However, the development of satellite constellations continued. By 2020, the first high-powered digital satellites were in operation over Africa. And, by their very nature, satellite networks are still the only option that can effectively provide both very high service reliability and anywhere, always on connectivity. Due to these fundamental advantages, a new category - Smart Satellite Services (such as Twoobii) - was developed to meet user requirements while overcoming the old limitations of speed, cost and latency.

What are the elements of Smart Satellite Services?

Smart Satellite Services are engineered on all levels of the end-to-end satellite network component chain and include many different network domains that share the following key elements:

High-Powered Satellites:

Advanced Qualityof-Service:

Content Management:

Flexible Billing:

The latest high-powered satellites make it possible to design high speed user links of +20Mbps while still using small user terminal antennas.

SDWAN-over-satellite, Realtime video, voice calls and video streaming are all possible due to the advanced qualityof-service capabilities of Smart Satellite Services.

Cost-vs-performance optimisation is achieved using content aware platform and implementing content management algorithms.

Specific user services such as pay-per-use, standby-only and data-pool service are only possible with sophisticated and flexible billing platforms which is integral to Smart Satellite Services.

FEATURE Scalable Satellite Data Service for Mine Tailings Dam Monitoring

Reliable Data, Informed Decisions, Compliant Mining The team at GeoTerraImage (GTI) recommend the use of scalable satellite data services for tracking activities at to assist in monitoriing tailings dam facilities and similar operations throughout the Life of Mine (LOM). They are eager to render their services to clients involved in greenfield and brownfield mining projects throughout Africa. in Zambia, without being physically (in situ) there.”

Furthermore, there is no or little weatherrelated interference. Suitable satellites that support all-weather, cloud-penetrating capabilities can be incorporated into the monitoring service, and can ably complement optical satellites. This means that any activity in any cloud cover, or weather conditions anywhere worldwide, can be monitored.

All the more noteworthy, GTI can choose the most appropriate satellite format to match the information required to be converted into intelligence to act on. This could be either incredibly detailed, high-level information over a small area or an entire mapping region.

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he introduction of the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM) in tailings compliance and reporting has prompted mining companies to seek practical ways of enhancing the management of their tailings storage facilities (TSF). Now, mining companies consider sound TSF management as one of the central components that can help them to improve their scores in Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) Reporting, which is central to their business operations.

Thus, for effective monitoring of TSFs, mining companies need rich and relevant data (reliable, actionable intelligence) to make informed decisions. This is the sage advice of GeoTerraImage (GTI) to mining companies in Africa.

Mark Thompson, the Director (Land & Resource Mapping) at GTI, assures mining companies that GTI is well-equipped to meet their data requirements of any scale. Specifically, he refers to the company’s capability to tap into its extensive experience to produce customised globally scalable information services which are relevant and valuable.

Extensive experience GTI has extensive experience in the provision of scalable satellite data to clients in mining and

other sectors. Relating to tailings management, specifically, the services provided encompass Surface Water Extension Detection & Tracking; Plant Cover for Conducting Tailings Disturbance & Rehabilitation; Tailings Dam Height Change monitoring, as well as Soil Moisture Monitoring.

Using actionable intelligence compiled from these tasks, mining companies can take necessary interventions for their respective greenfield and brownfield mining projects timeously.

Globally scalable information services Remotely, the team at GTI can access earth observation imagery from a suite of satellites as and when needed in near-real time. Then, utilising the convenience of cloud technology, they can retrieve large volumes of international image archives for use in different monitoring applications. “We can extract different layers of information from satellite imagery on what is happening in the landscape. With the ability to go back in time, changes are tracked,“ Thompson explains to Mining Business Africa.

He elaborates further on convenience: “We can move the same functionality from one area to another. For instance, it is possible to support a management team based in Toronto, to understand what is happening in the Copperbelt

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Tailings dam-specific services For tailings management, GTI has tailored its scope of services to keep abreast of contemporary requirements. In this area, the scope of services spans the following areas: •

Surface Water Extension Detection and Tracking Surface water extent detection and tracking services are applied to enable sound reporting of conditions at a tailings dam. This approach is based on the notion that the tailings pond that sits on top of the tailings dam is a vital indicator of how safe that tailings dam is. Later, conveniently, through satellite imagery, the effectiveness of water management is assessed.

Thompson demonstrates how Surface Water Extension Detection and Tracking is implemented: “It is very easy to track through a time where the pond is on the tailings dam surface. For example, whether it is migrating to the external area or is managed successfully in the centre of the tailings dam.“ •

Plant Cover - Tailings Disturbance & Rehabilitation One of the critical applications of satellite imagery is in the tracking condition or state of plant cover – loss, gain and biomass growth.

Typically, the sight of active vegetation, for example, woodland or grassland, is a direct or

indirect indicator of activity that is taking place.

Fundamentally, there could be two assumptions about the disappearance or disappearance of vegetation.

If an existing vegetation cover is disappearing, it could suggest poor management, or a change in management objectives. On the other hand, the appearance of vegetation could mean that the rehabilitation process is effective and ongoing.

•

Tailings Dam Height Change Monitoring Satellite imagery can be used to monitor changes in Tailings Dam Height Profile, which could be indicative of changes in dam stability..

By tracking the height profile of tailings and retaining walls over time, it is possible to track and identify any critical bulging or slippage areas..

•

Qualitative soil moisture monitoring Information from satellite imagery can be used in qualitative soil moisture monitoring at a tailings dam. For instance, if a high soil moisture concentration is extensively migrating towards tailings dam edges. In this way, the risk of a potential collapse of a tailings dam or breach can be gauged.

Relevant and valuable Interestingly, thanks to big data, the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), there is a perception that these days there is an overkill of information at the disposal of organisations. To some degree, there could be a point in this.

However, in its approach, GTI focuses on providing information services that are relevant

and add immense value to a mining company’s operations. Actionable intelligence (information) from the monitoring can prompt key decisions.

• Tailings dams In the context of monitoring tailings dams, with satellite data, experts at the end of the value chain can decide to take action. For instance, if the data indicated that the tailings dam has been stable for one month, then suddenly, a decrease in height in one area is noticed.

Broad applications Generally, satellite image archives are handy in a broad range of applications in various phases of the life-of-mine. Among others, they can be referenced in the early stages of brownfield and greenfield projects.

• Brownfield projects In a brownfield project where mine ownership is changing, it is easy to understand how a pit was managed, whether it was closed down properly or managed in hibernation. “With images dating back 30 to 40 years, you can see what took place. You can monitor efforts made in closure and rehabilitation processes,“ Thompson points out. Should charges of liability be raised after the acquisition, the new owners can reference a time record of activities upstream and downstream before acquiring a mine. Using data, they can prove that the mess was already in existence.

• Greenfield Projects Typically, greenfield mining projects attract people from host communities and afar who aim to benefit from economic opportunities. Thus, using satellite imagery, a mine can monitor the migration pattern to get a clear picture of the potential impact on activity.

Independent, auditable and verifiable Undoubtedly, it is paramount to engage with a reputable organisation in the provision of satellite data services, as shareholders need accurate information on the state of their assets. Handily, satellite data, which is an independent, auditable and verifiable source of information, can improve complex tasks like tailings dam management, most importantly, enhance an organisation’s ESG reporting (compliance) and adherence with terms of an operating licence.

All in all, recommending the use of scalable satellite data services, Thompson concludes: “Satellite imagery provides an ‘eye-in-the-sky’ perspective to validate what you are being told through other sources. A picture is a failsafe guide of what is taking place. Especially if multiple pictures over the same time are showing similar conditions.“ As mining companies unveil brownfield and greenfield projects in Africa, Thompson and his vastly experienced team are eager to participate and replicate the success they registered in similar projects recently.

Interferometry for land monitoring

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nterferometry is another technique GTI uses to monitor land subsidence. In interferometry, radar sends light to the earth’s surface and bounces back to the radar. With surgical precision, the data can capture millimetre differences over time.

GTI has partnered with specialists wellversed in interferometry and hydrological monitoring. Images are processed together with the specialists, then critical data is relayed to clients.

Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023 19

FEATURE Airborne Electromagnetic Geophysical Surveys

Enhancing Data Integrity Due to prevailing conditions in the world economy, clients have become circumspect when planning the implementation of their respective mineral exploration projects. Due to this situation, Spectrem Air, the provider of airborne electromagnetic geophysical surveys to exploration projects, notes that reliable data has become more relevant than ever. The company’s vastly experienced team are relishing the challenge of meeting the urgent need.

Spectrem Air employs one of the most advanced fixed-wing airborne technologies,

By Jimmy Swira

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he SpectremPLUS System is Spectrem Air’s most advanced airborne electromagnetic technology. Since its launch, the tool has continued its record-breaking streak, exceeding expectations in complex geophysical surveys for mineral exploration and hydrological surveys. Deservedly, it is highly regarded as a reliable tool that prevails in imaging the physical properties of materials beneath the surface to great depths in remote environments.

highly valuable and meets their needs,” he tells Mining Business Africa, referring to the diverse clientele portfolio of junior exploration companies, mid-tier mining entities and major mining houses. “Data is as good as its value.”

Polome attributes Spectrem Air’s success to the unique approach in executing the tasks of airborne geophysical data collection, processing and interpretation. The company’s approach has proved effective in meeting client expectations regarding data quality.

Incredible milestones Louis Polome, General Manager at Spectrem Air, enthuses the incredible milestones that the company has accomplished. “We are very proud for positive feedback from clients that the data acquired from high-resolution, time-domain electromagnetic technology is

Compelling business case The company sees prevailing conditions in the contemporary exploration sector as underlining the compelling business case for accurate data.

Exploration and mining companies are burdened by global conditions, which, naturally, have impacted budgets.

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Consequently, clients are circumspect about where they are and how they should direct their financial resources. Thus, this necessitates that accurate data should inform decisions they undertake on projects.

Spectrem Air is looking forward to applying its tried and tested approach to meeting the need for accurate data in geophysical surveys, replicating recent successes.

A sum of many parts Spectrem Air’s approach to enhancing integrity in survey data entails a sum of many parts, each integral in its own right. “We are consistently committed to ensuring the utmost in data integrity in every survey,” Polome explains, as he illustrates how each integral component constitutes optimal data acquisition, processing and interpretation.

•

High Standards in Technical Design & Electronic Specification and Maintenance Consistently, Spectrem Air adheres to the highest standards in the technical design and electronic specification of the electromagnetic system, as well as strict maintenance of the systems. In addition, Spectrem is continually researching and designing technical and electronic improvements to the system which will enable enhanced data collection and interpreatation.

• Self-calibrating System In any airborne EM surveys, regular calibration is routine when work is done on the platform.

This requires proper documentation of any modifications, with a comparison to previous results and expected norms.

Specifically, the operation of a test site is extremely valuable in the routine calibration of the platform to ensure the repeatability of the system over time.

For this reason, as part of routine checks on the system, Spectrem conducts thorough high-level references before any data acquisition is undertaken.

Remarkably, the SpectremPLUS system is “self-calibrating” in processing data. “Minimum filtering is applied to the data to ensure that clients receive as pure data as possible. All processing parameters are clearly defined and provided to the clients. It is also becoming standard routine to provide raw data to the client for further verification or in-house processing,” Polome demonstrates.

•

Qualified Experts in Data Acquisition Suitably qualified experts are involved in the design and maintenance of the Spectrem airborne electromagnetic system. Regularly, they undergo strict in-house training to keep abreast of best practice in data acquisition. Further, a team of experienced technical and geophysical staff conduct thorough quality control and quality assurance on the data.

•

Collaboration with Recognised Expert Consultants The company collaborates with recognised

international expert consultants in airborne electromagnetic technology to assist in reviewing data and developing new processing routines.

Also, to constantly improve the level of value added technical assistance rendered to clients, Spectrem collaborates with leaders in relevant technologies to enhance the techniques of data processing and interpretation.

Quality Standard Spectrem Air’s in-house quality control systems combine their own developed, well-controlled processes and aspects of industry accepted standards. This ensures that data acquisition, quality control and processing follow world industry standards. Over and above, there is a complete documentation of the processing chain, and any deviations from it, which detail reasons, parameters and results. This is then validated through regular internal audits to ensure that processes are strictly observed.

Staying current Spectrem Air always strives to stay current with technological advances, exploring their potential to add value to the quality of survey results.

Currently, the company is keen to explore the latest software and hardware to achieve

reliable data. There are massive opportunities in applying evolving software algorithms and new processing routines in airborne electromagnetic data for better 3-dimension interpretation and provision of additional products.

More to the point, Spectrem Air is confident that adopting hardware technology and better control of geometrical information of the platforms will result in significantly better data interpretation.

Relishing new challenges In a recent report, The World Bank predicts that a slowdown in the global economy is likely to persist for a while. On the other hand, there are indications that demand for minerals, especially energy-related and precious metals, will be sustained for some time.

The team at Spectrem Air are cognisant that this will impact their operations. Polome acknowledges the scale of the task ahead: “Sterner tests on our capabilities are yet to come, and we are relishing the challenge, as we have done in the past and prevailed.”

ELECTROMAGNETIC, MAGNETIC AND RADIOMETRICS

MAKING GEOLOGICAL MAPPING EASY

John Michael Smith

UNEQUALLED SOLUTION FOR:

SPECIALIST PRODUCTS:

Geological mapping Minerals exploration Hydrogeology and geo-engineering

Structural & lineament maps 3D conductivity maps Regolith thickness map High resolution DTM Anomaly selections including dip and depth to conductors

www.spectrem.co.za • info@spectrem.co.za • +27 11 659 1518

Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023 21

FEATURE Fleet Managment for mining operations

Optimising Mining Operations with Telematics All transport fleets across various industries, especially specialised industries like mining, have different challenges, needs, and constraints. From extraction to distribution, telematics can manage every aspect of a company’s assets.

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he mining industry, like any other industry, has had to adapt to the emerging digital technologies that continue to dominate the world we live in today. The unique and complex environmental, regulatory, and safety considerations involved with managing a mining fleet present considerable challenges to the status and performance of every operator and asset, while continually streamlining operations, improving safety, increasing productivity, ensuring compliance, and meeting sustainability goals.

From extraction to distribution, telematics can manage every aspect of a company’s assets.

This includes lighting towers or generators, right through to monitoring heavy vehicles like trucks, buses, and the state-of-the-art machinery used in mines.

Mining managers are focused on keeping assets and personnel safe, ensuring constant access to their entire fleet by regularly scheduling maintenance, achieving their green goals by lowering their carbon footprint, lowering their operational costs, and improving their

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bottom line. With these KPIs front of mind, MiX Telematics offers technology that advances mining capabilities, allowing companies to connect their business with a single, integrated platform that monitors equipment, assets, and fleet vehicles through vehicle and video telematics.

“All transport fleets across various industries, especially specialised industries like mining, have different challenges, needs, and constraints. A telematics system, therefore, needs to be flexible and sufficiently scalable.

Our tools help manage and integrate fleets of both manual and autonomous mining equipment, and we support you with our extensive telematics expertise. MiX Telematics solutions help mining companies get the most out of their fleets,” says Henry Smith, Fleet Sales Director for MiX Telematics Africa.

At MiX Telematics, we monitor the constant shifts in the mining industry and work to provide solutions that complement the needs of this key facet of our economy. We take learnings from our current customers within the mining industry to build and invest in bespoke solutions as they touch on key areas of concern which are also key pillars for our business. These areas include compliance, efficiency, security, safety, and sustainability.

The MiX Fleet Manager Premium online platform comprises of a sophisticated onboard computer that collects and transmits valuable vehicle and driver data. Driver behaviour, performance, fleet locations, engine diagnostics for preventative maintenance, and optimised route planning are tracked and monitored to aid mining operators in improving productivity and efficiency.

The solution also analyses a range of connected metrics in real-time, helping operators improve asset utilisation while reducing operating expenses. This pre-emptive information gives site managers full visibility of their operations, equipping them with data to continuously improve efficiency and performance. The platform captures driving events such as harsh braking, speeding, excessive idling, over-revving, and harsh cornering. These events are captured by the hardware, giving insight into driver behaviour negatively impacting the fleet’s energy consumption and carbon emissions.

Advancements in AI-powered technology allows for video telematics to be utilised in mining. The MiX Vision AI dashcam solution uses advanced machine learning to monitor

risky driving behaviours and fatigue, which could lead to fatal accidents. The camera solution, coupled with the online platform, provides data and controls so that when incidents occur there is a trail of evidence to facilitate investigation, resolutions, and further corrective actions. The MiX Vision AI in-cab and road-facing cameras help prevent collisions, alert drivers to risky driving behaviour and save on insurance costs from wrongful claims against drivers.

Added to the camera solution is the MiX Vision Bureau Gold service which offers an eyes-on-screen service with key features such as the Driver Coaching Module, Driver Scorecard, and Risk Profile, which offers a view of driver trends to see improvements and spot declines in driver behaviour. It includes any outstanding coaching that the driver still needs to undergo for repeated offences to be avoided in the future. The service also has a Health Service which ensures uptime of all MiX Vision AI cameras with regards to hardware failure and driver tampering.

By using our solutions, customers have been able to report safer mines. On average, our customers see a 30% reduction in collisions.

The ability to monitor unsafe driving behaviours and alert drivers and managers when dangerous driving events occur makes all the difference.

Moreover, MiX solutions lead to a significant reduction in operating costs — from maintenance, insurance, repairs, and fuel, these costs cut into already tight profit margins.

Fleet telematics tools lower these costs by ensuring that drivers are accountable for their performance. In fact, a customer reported a monthly fuel saving of R66k by implementing the MiX Fleet Manager solution to monitor driver behaviour.

The mining sector is also particularly sensitive to the impact that operations can have on the environment, and it’s our objective to demonstrate the efficacy of telematics to improve the safety of employees on-site and

to help companies reduce carbon emissions to achieve sustainability targets. We’ve helped our clients save as much as 540,000 tons of CO2 annually.

The launch of the new MiX KPI Manager is built to leverage MiX’s powerful embedded fleet data. MiX KPI Manager provides selfservice analytics that is fully customisable for customers - allowing them to visually track their performance on specific issues impacting their fleet’s risk, safety, efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. These solutions connect vehicles/ assets, protect the operator, and offer actionable insights for managers or owners. They can be used as standalone solutions or integrated with several solutions offered by MiX and bundled together with the solutions that offer video and audio-logged evidence for the business.

“The reporting dashboards and data provided

by MiX Telematics solutions are vital to the daily operational decisions that businesses have to make. The active fleet data is used to detect trends, monitor vehicle utilisation and driver behaviour, as well as improve fuel consumption —considerations that have become even more important during the current economic climate,” continues Smith. “Additional benefits of telematics solutions in mining include optimised on-site communication, task and journey management, driver behaviour and performance monitoring, improved driver and employee safety, as well as improved site, vehicle, and asset safety.”

From a MiX Telematics perspective, the solutions offered are refined and developed continuously to meet customer demand. “As technology develops and becomes more accessible and affordable, the mining industry is realising the benefits and added value of telematics solutions,” concludes Smith.

Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023 23

FEATURE Water Treatment Plants

To Spend or Not? In an erratic economic environment, plant engineers are stuck between spending millions on critical equipment for water treatment plant projects and containing costs. In the end, mining companies must make decisions informed by the long-term view, writes NICK BARNES.

A water filter plant installation (Credits: WEC Projects)

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he first challenge that faces plant design engineers in upgrading wastewater treatment plants is: How much will it cost?

Understandably, mining companies, like any other business, focused on reducing costs due to a gloomy economic environment. Budgetary constraints come to mind.

But what is overlooked is that, more often than not over time, plant upgrades pay for themselves, or at the very least, save a plant money.

Hence, the enormous responsibility is on wastewater plant engineers to consider this

when designing new and upgrading existing infrastructure. Necessity should not be sacrificed for economics.

One of the circumstances in which a challenge arises is during equipment selection.

Engineers are faced with the dilemma of higher initial cost with payback over the medium or long term or lower initial cost that meets the bare minimum in fits for purpose.

Whatever it is, ultimately, they have to make informed decisions. They should conduct extensive CAPEX versus OPEX studies in the two phases: planning and implementation of new

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treatment facilities, and managing and operating existing treatment facilities.

Technology should be explored and considered when replacing equipment like for like. In this way, plant efficiency and efficacy can be achieved.

In the final analysis, rational decisions should be made that will serve the mine water requirements cost-effectively with the long-term view. There is a heavy price to pay with a huge obsession over cost containment.

FEATURE Televiewers for borehole logging in mineral exploration

Developments in Borehole Imaging Technology MARCUS CHATFIELD, from Wireline Workshop, illustrates the incredible transformation that acoustic and optical televiewers have brought to borehole wall imaging in mineral explorations projects.

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n recent years, the advent of borehole imagery, captured by acoustic and optical televiewers, and the ability of computers to manage the very large data sets involved, have revolutionised the wireline logging industry.

The continuous, orientated, high-resolution representation of the borehole wall it enables offers many advantages to the geologist.

Perhaps this is more comprehensible when the significance of data is considered.

Dipmeter logging Borehole televiewers have also emerged as a reliable alternative to the resistivity Dipmeter used in producing tadpole plot.

Usually, most logging technology, in mineral and oilfield exploration, targets sedimentary formations. Thus, there has always been a need to measure dip and direction of strata.

Conveniently, thirty years ago, the resistivity Dipmeter was the answer. The Dipmeter logging involved the correlation of three or four high-resolution resistance logs whose depth and position on the borehole wall was known.

The result was a tadpole plot, a braille-like representation of bedding dip orientation.

Shortcomings of ‘conventional’ analysis Typically, data provides knowledge about geology, structure, fractures and stress orientation. Some of this knowledge might be gained by conventional analysis of orientated drill core. However, this option has proved to be time-consuming, imprecise and costly.

The Wireline log as an alternative In contrast, using the wireline log as an alternative, there is no lost core, the log can be repeated, and processing is straightforward.

Consequently, the cost of televiewer imagery per log metre is relatively low.

Incredible convenience There is no doubt, that televiewer imagery offers incredible convenience.

In this age of information technology, with televiewers objective and precise data, captured in-situ, is transferred directly from the borehole to the computer where it can be stored, processed, analysed and disseminated, literally at the touch of a button. This is good for density, gamma ray and resistivity measurements but it is fantastic for borehole imagery, which uses all the functionality and capacity of a fast computer.

It brings the formation to the geologist’s desk.

Geologists love their rocks and have always been a little suspicious of those wiggly lines, but they have embraced the use of image data as a source of important and sometimes critical information.

A tadpole plot

Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023 25

FEATURE photograph of the borehole wall at high resolution and without perspective...like a virtual drill-core. It is an excellent geological tool. The system does not offer a travel time image and log quality is dependent on clean borehole fluid (if it is run below the water table). In slim holes, optical televiewer images can be of such high quality and value that it is usually worth cleaning the borehole wall and replacing dirty fluid before logging.

In mineral exploration, the tadpole plot, as a means of displaying derived structures, has endured. However, the advent of borehole televiewers has made dipmeter logging a rare and specialised event. Essentially, borehole televiewers are used to produce tadpole plot.

The role of borehole televiewers 1. The Acoustic Televiewer The Acoustic Televiewer describes the borehole wall in terms of hardness, measuring the amplitude of a high-frequency reflected sonic pulse at a very high resolution. It describes the borehole skin rather than the formation beyond.

Hard rocks reflect high amplitude signals and soft rocks and fractures reflect low ones. The individual measurements of reflected amplitude are made continuously (send-receive cycles last a few hundred microseconds) by a rotating sonic mirror aligned with a stationary transducer.

The result is a map of the borehole wall with a resolution of about 2 millimetres.

• An acoustic televiewer log The amplitude image on the right shows what the log looks like. The borehole wall is unwrapped with the left edge of the resulting image aligned with magnetic north. Fractures and bedding planes appear as sinusoidal lines where the deepest point on the line is the direction of dip. Reflection travel times for each cycle are measured and mapped in the same way as the reflected amplitudes, resulting in a complete description of borehole cross-section.

Tool centralisation is important to ensure similar travel time and signal strength in all directions.

Resolution is reduced in large boreholes and/or drilling mud where signal dispersal is a problem.

Because the acoustic televiewer is sensitive to rock hardness and can measure fracture orientations and apertures (lost in drill core), it has become an important geotechnical tool in both sedimentary and hard-rock environments.

An acoustic televiewer log

The transformation of borehole imaging Generally, there is no question that the advent of borehole televiewers has transformed how borehole wall imaging tasks are carried out in mineral exploration projects. They bring the convenience of delivering reliable data continuously and as and when needed, costeffectively.

2. The Optical Televiewer A limitation of acoustic tools is that they only function in fluid-filled boreholes. If the geologist requires data from dry boreholes, the Optical Televiewer should be employed. It measures the colour and shade of reflected light. The borehole wall is lit by a ring of light emitting diodes (LEDs) on the tool and reflections are directed to a lightsensitive sensor via a conical mirror. Resolution is very high, with pixel sizes down to well below 1 millimetre at HQ borehole diameter.

• An optical televiewer image The optical televiewer provides an orientated

Data processing Data processing of both acoustical (ATV) and optical (OTV) images is performed in the same way. An empty structure log is placed over the image and populated by manually-picked orientations. Sinusoids are fitted over selected events using a mouse. It can be a protracted process, usually taking much longer than data capture. The user might consider contracting a consultant to perform post-processing analysis. After picking and classifying (fracture, fault sedimentary bed, vein etc) is completed, the structure log is orientated in line with the horizontal and true north and displayed as a tadpole plot.

In many cases, both ATV and OTV tools are run which increases the knowledge gained, because the two methods do not measure the same thing, and provide quality assurance.

High-level interaction between the geologist and processor/consultant is required to get the best value from the log data.

Each imaging tool has its advantages and disadvantages. For instance, the OTV copes with large-diameter boreholes with rough surfaces far better than the ATV. Borehole conditions play a big part in image quality and that is where the driller should be involved.

And so, the borehole must be prepared to offer the best conditions for the selected methodology. That might mean, where possible, flushing and cleaning the optical televiewer.

Using ATV in smooth water-filled diamondcored boreholes results in excellent data and independence from the driller. In all cases, fresh water within smooth borehole walls works best.

An optical televiewer image

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For more information on televiewers for borehole logging, contact Marcus Chatfield on +27 (079) 181 2076

FEATURE Virtual Reality-Based Training Simulation

Virtual Reality-based training simulation for coal miners The Boiler Room understands that mining companies have embraced virtual reality technology and simulations as a transformative technology that enhances safety, streamlines training programs, and optimises operational efficiency. Having witnessed its VR solutions improving productivity, safety and optimising operations at a coal mine in South Africa, the company is keen to replicate the successful deployment in other mines throughout Africa. themselves to real-life dangers. “Our proven VR simulations allow workers to experience and respond to hazardous situations in a controlled and managed VR environment. This immersive training enhances their preparedness, decisionmaking skills, and overall safety awareness, significantly reducing the occurrence of accidents and injuries!” states Hocker The Boiler Room’s VR gaming solution proved its effectiveness in safety training at South32’s Khutala mine. Deployed at South32’s Khutala mine, the Boiler Room VR gaming solution replicated realistic scenarios, such as emergency procedures, gas scenarios and geological conditions such as Falls-Of-Ground (FOG).

• Joy Continuous Miner

V

irtual reality (VR) technology has rapidly emerged as a ground-breaking tool across various industries. It has revolutionised the way we perceive and interact with the virtual world. Among its many applications, one industry that has significantly benefited from VR simulations is mining, especially coal mining.

The Boiler Room The Boiler Room has been pioneering the immersive power of VR for over a decade and has been creating innovative solutions for coal. This has allowed coal mine operators to enhance safety, streamline training programs, and optimise operational efficiency.

Mark Hocker, the CEO of the Boiler Room strongly believes in “Learning by doing”. That is why the company showcases the remarkable use of VR simulations in the coal mine industry, highlighting their advantages and impact on the workforce and overall productivity, he explains.

Advantages of VR Mainly, VR offers the following advantages to coal mine operators:

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Cost-effective and accessible alternative Traditionally, coal mine training has relied heavily on classroom lectures and on-site demonstrations, which can be time-consuming, expensive, and limited in their ability to replicate complex scenarios.

However, handily, VR offers a cost-effective and accessible alternative. New hires and existing employees can undergo immersive VR training modules that simulate all aspects of coal mining operations, such as equipment handling, safety training, inductions, and maintenance procedures. These simulations provide a safe and engaging platform for trainees to learn and practice critical skills, accelerating the learning curve and reducing the dependency on realworld training scenarios.

• Enhanced Safety Measures Safety is paramount in the coal mining industry, where workers face numerous hazards and risks. Conveniently, VR simulations provide a valuable training ground for miners to learn and practice safety procedures without exposing

28 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

Realistic Equipment Familiarisation Coal mining involves operating heavy machinery and specialised equipment. Familiarity with these tools is crucial for efficient and safe operations. VR simulations enable miners to interact virtually with and operate mining equipment in a realistic environment showing the consequences of incorrect action instantaneously.

Through virtual replicas of machinery, workers can practice using controls, troubleshooting issues, and understanding the intricacies of different equipment components.

A solution deployed by the Boiler Room includes a 3Dof (Degrees-of-Freedom) motion platform, using virtual reality, as well as static VR driving simulators, that provide a realistic specialised equipment experience.

The VR coal mining-specific solutions include amongst others shuttle cars, roof bolters, continuous miners, SOP simulators, safety simulators and underground LDV driving simulators.

The Boiler Room is pleased to witness the huge difference they have brought. “This immersive experience improves their proficiency, reduces human error, and minimises the risk of accidents due to incorrect equipment handling.

Joy Twin Boom Roof Bolter

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We have seen a 50% reduction in training time to competence with some of our clients, using a virtual reality training approach,” says Hocker.

• Remote Collaboration and Maintenance In the coal mine industry, maintenance and repairs are essential to ensure uninterrupted operations. VR simulations offer a unique advantage by enabling remote collaboration and maintenance activities.

Through VR platforms, experts from remote locations can virtually access the mine environment, assess equipment conditions, and guide on-site personnel in real time. This streamlined collaboration saves time and resources while ensuring efficient equipment maintenance and minimising downtime.

The Boiler Room has created innovative maintenance solutions that save 50% in maintenance time for one of global OEMs. For instance, a South32 coal operation, by deploying a Boiler Room maintenance solution, has managed to reduce equipment downtime by 75%.

Joy Continuous Miner inspecting the strainer

• Optimised Operational Efficiency By utilising VR simulations, coal mine operators can fine-tune their operational processes and improve efficiency. Virtual models can simulate different mining layouts, allowing operators to evaluate the impact of modifications or optimisations before implementing them in the real world.

This virtual testing enables the identification of potential bottlenecks, optimisation of workflows, and streamlining of resource allocation.

By optimising operational efficiency through VR simulations, coal mine operators can increase productivity, reduce costs, and enhance their competitive edge.

The Boiler Room has created a digital twin of a coal mining operation north of Emalahleni, duplicating the processing plant in VR (Digital Twin).

Committed to coal mining The Boiler Room is committed to supporting the coal mine industry.

It understands that mining companies have embraced virtual reality technology and simulations as a transformative technology that enhances safety, streamlines training programs, and optimises operational efficiency.

Hocker says The Boiler Room is extremely gratified at witnessing its VR solutions meeting the industry’s pertinent needs. “We are proud that, through our immersive VR experiences, miners can undergo realistic training, practice equipment operation, and develop critical skills without exposing themselves to real-world risks at a reasonable cost.

Furthermore, maintenance activities become more efficient and effective through VR, minimising downtime, and improving overall productivity.”

Playing a central role As virtual reality technology advances, the coal mine industry is poised to experience further benefits, ensuring even safer working conditions, and increased operational excellence. The Boiler Room is well-equipped to play a central role.

Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023 29

FEATURE

WearCheck boosts transformer efficiency, longevity Mines can present hostile environments for humans. As a result, mining companies are turning to inspection technology that prevents humans from being exposed to risky situations – enter drones!

Transformers play an essential role in the mining industry and other sectors, but can be prone to wear and aging, which can lead to unplanned failure – problems which are overcome when WearCheck’s transformer condition monitoring programme is in place

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ransformers are critical components of mining projects, providing a reliable and stable power supply to operate equipment and machinery. However, transformers are prone to wear and aging, which can lead to malfunctions, failures, and unplanned downtime.

Condition monitoring specialist company, WearCheck, provides a range of world-class monitoring programmes – valuable tools to keep components operating at peak efficiency across many sectors, including for transformers.

WearCheck’s transformer division manager, Gert Nel, provides insight into getting the most out of a transformer, ‘The timely detection and diagnosis of potential issues in transformers are essential for ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of mining projects.’

In this article, Nel discusses how transformer oil condition monitoring can be used as a tool for predictive maintenance of transformers in mining projects, and provides a brief case study.

‘Transformer oil is an essential component of transformer insulation and cooling systems, playing a critical role in maintaining the

transformer’s electrical and mechanical properties. The condition of transformer oil can indicate the health of the transformer, as changes in the oil properties can result from various forms of wear and aging. Therefore, monitoring the condition of transformer oil is a useful tool for predicting potential issues in transformers.

‘Transformer oil condition monitoring involves analysing the physical and chemical properties of the oil, such as furanic components, dielectric strength, IFT (interfacial tension), acidity, moisture content, and dissolved gas content.

These properties can provide insight into the condition of the transformer insulation and other components, as well as potential issues that may be developing.

‘By analysing the oil properties over time, maintenance teams can detect changes in the oil condition and take appropriate actions, such as performing maintenance or replacing components, before a failure occurs.

‘There are several methods for analysing the physical and chemical properties of transformer

30 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

oil, each with its advantages and limitations.

Some of the common methods include: • Furanic test: paper deterioration is the single biggest cause of transformer failure in RSA. WearCheck’s specialised furanic test enables the predicted DP value to be tested from the oil, rather than taking an actual paper sample, which is highly intrusive and often inaccurate.

• Furanic derivatives in transformer oil are correlated with the UV–visible spectral property. 2-FAL is the major furanic derivative and the most stable compound of deterioration of insulation paper. High concentration of furanic derivatives may indicate presence of thermal fault and also indicates the tensile strength of paper insulation life.

• Indicate potential issues with the transformer insulation or other components.

• Dielectric Breakdown Voltage (DBV) Testing: DBV testing is a technique used to measure the breakdown voltage of transformer oil under an applied voltage.

DBV testing can detect changes in the oil dielectric strength, which can indicate potential issues with the transformer insulation or other components.

• Water Content Analysis: Water content analysis is a technique used to measure the moisture content of transformer oil.

Excess moisture in transformer oil can lead to reduced insulation properties, corrosion, and other issues.

• Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA) Test of Transformer Oil: DGA is the study of dissolved gases in transformer oil. It is also referred to as a DGA test. Whenever a transformer undergoes abnormal thermal and electrical stresses, certain gases are produced due to the decomposition of the transformer oil.

‘By using a combination of these methods, maintenance teams can gain a comprehensive understanding of the transformer oil condition and potential issues that may be developing. This information can be used to plan and execute maintenance activities and replacements proactively, thereby reducing unplanned downtime and maintenance costs.

‘A mining company in South Africa had several transformers operating in harsh environments,

providing power to critical mining equipment.

The transformers were subject to high temperatures, dust, and vibration, which could cause wear and tear over time. The company needed a reliable and cost-effective way to monitor the transformers’ condition and detect potential issues before they caused failures.

‘The company implemented a transformer oil condition monitoring programme, using a combination of DGA and other condition monitoring techniques. The programme involved taking regular samples of transformer oil and analysing them in a laboratory, using specialised equipment and software.

‘The DGA analysis provided valuable insights into the transformers’ health, detecting potential faults such as overheating, arcing, and insulation breakdown. Other analysis provided insights into WearCheck’s transformer division manager, the oil’s condition, detecting changes in acidity, Gert Nel, advises that early detection and moisture content, and viscosity. The combination diagnosis of potential issues in transformers help to ensure that the transformer operates in of monitoring techniques allowed maintenance an optimal condition. teams to detect potential issues early on, taking corrective actions before they caused significant replaced damaged components. Another downtime or safety hazards.

‘One of the transformers showed a significant transformer showed an increase in acidity and viscosity, indicating potential contamination or increase in hydrogen and methane gases, degradation. The maintenance team filtered indicating potential overheating or arcing. and replaced The maintenance team reduced the load on 1 2023/05/17 WCK Mining Business Africa 180x130 copy.pdf 10:40:14 the oil, restoring the transformer’s health. the transformer, allowing it to cool down, and

Condi�on monitoring is KEY to mining produc�on

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‘The transformer oil condition monitoring programme proved to be a cost-effective way to maintain the health of the transformers, reducing the risk of unexpected failures and downtime.

The programme allowed the mining operation to extend the life of the transformers, avoiding the need for costly component replacements.

‘The programme also provided valuable insights into the health of the mining equipment, allowing the company to take proactive measures to maintain their condition. The mine implemented a comprehensive maintenance programme based on the data collected from the transformer oil condition monitoring programme, reducing the risk of unexpected failures and improving the overall efficiency of the mining operation.’

Says Nel, ‘In conclusion, transformer oil condition monitoring is a valuable tool in predictive maintenance of transformers used in mining projects. The technique allows maintenance teams to detect potential issues early on, taking corrective actions before they escalate into significant problems. The combination of different monitoring techniques provides a comprehensive view of the transformer’s health, allowing maintenance teams to make informed decisions about maintenance and replacement.’

WearCheck, Africa's leading condi�on monitoring company, is commi�ed to serving the mining industry with its range of sophis�cated analy�cal techniques.

Our specialist oil, coolant and fuel tes�ng programmes allow customers to reduce maintenance costs, avoid unexpected mechanical failures and ul�mately reduce unscheduled down�me.

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+267 311 6829 +260 977 622 287 +233 54 431 6512 +258 85 792 7933 +264 81 141 7205 +256 78 529 6994 +260 212 210 161 +263 24 244 6369

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Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023 31

FEATURE Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD) for crystalline identification & quantification

Sound planning and implementation, desired results Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD) is regarded as a convenient technique in the Identification and quantification Of Crystalline Material In Rock Samples, where conventional techniques fall short. But it can only deliver the desired results through sound planning and implementation in the process of sample preparation.

By Jimmy Swira Identifying the diffraction patterns In XRD, powder diffractometers, modern computer software and an extensive mineral database are used to identify the experimental diffraction patterns. Typically, analysis is performed on a pulverised sample, and then data is acquired for mineralogical (phase) analysis.

Ideally, sample preparation should be routine, without a few glitches, if any. However, as far as analysis goes, the accuracy of the mineralogical data obtained is as good as the effectiveness of sample preparation.

Fortunately, state-of-the-art technology has simplified some tasks, enabling rapid and accurate delivery of results. Nonetheless, technology does not solely offset the effects of poor preparation.

Hence, the significance of sound sample preparation should not be overstressed.

A modern diffractometer (Image credit: Bruker)

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ining companies are in continuous pursuit of alternative methods that are safe, cost-effective and efficient in processes involving exploration to mine closure and rehabilitation. This is evident in the sampling of particulate materials, clays and other minerals, where X-Ray diffraction (XRD) has emerged and indeed is widely regarded as an alternative method.

If planned and implemented effectively, XRD offsets the limitations encountered with techniques such as optical microscopy, scanning Electron Microscope/Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (SEM/EDS), and Quantitative Evaluation of Materials by Scanning Electron Microscopy ((QEMSCAN™) in applications requiring rapid phase identification and quantification.

32 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

Significance of sound sample preparation A few years ago, Dr Deshenthree Chetty, South Africa · Head - Research of the Mineralogy Division at Mintek, briefed this writer about the significance of sound sample preparation in XRD. She said XRD can only yield desired results only if correct procedures in sample preparation are followed, as well as if relevant instrumentation is utilised.

An an article from the University of Alberta in Canada, School of Science (Faculty of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences) echoes this point.

It is titled: “Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD) Technique For Identification Of Crystalline Material In Rock Samples“.

Meticulous planning and implementation Sound sample implementation entails meticulous planning and implementation. Specifically, the following steps are critical: •

Nature of the sample At the outset, special attention should be on the nature of the sample. As XRD is based on crystal structure, it is important to gather background information on the chemical composition of samples to be analysed. “Due to crystal structure, some minerals may show overlapping peaks and chemical composition would inform which mineral is present for instance, some samples will decompose on exposure to X-rays. Even more, highly hydroscopic samples that will expand or liquefy in the air are not recommended for X-ray diffraction analysis. Liquids that are not suitable are a no-no,” Dr Chetty stated.

The article from the University of Alberta expounds: “Some samples are easier to prepare than others. Depending on the hardness, habit, reactivity, etc. of the phase(s) in the sample different preparation techniques are required.”

Ideally, samples should be crystalline. While Amorphous can be determined, they cannot be identified.

• Sample height It is paramount that the surface of the sample is level with the surface of the holder to maintain the geometry in the BraggBrentano set-up. This is because sample height impacts the peak positions in the diffractogram.

Granted, this can be corrected. However, it should be done correctly when mounting the sample.

Most importantly, the sample should be pulverised finely.

Hence, micronizing is preferred to reduce micro-absorption effects and other artefacts on the diffractogram that could hamper mineral quantification.

Usually, a small particle size distribution is needed. “Ideally,

the particle size should be as small as possible, for example, -10 µm, whilst ensuring that you do not start to destroy crystallites and reduce crystallite size,” Chetty indicated.

However, micronizing might take some practice.

This is because samples can be composed of soft and hard minerals which will mill differentially. For this reason, the diffractograms should be inspected to determine the quality of the preparation.

Ultimately, the University of Alberta says proper grinding (finely powdering a sample) helps in achieving the following conditions to get good data: 1. Total randomness of crystallite orientations 2. Sufficient number of crystallites to get a representative intensity distribution for the sample 3. Sufficient diffraction intensity to meet satisfy counting statistics • Instrumentation Once sample preparation is complete and all boxes have been ticked, it is paramount that a suitable instrument is selected.

This is because the instrument configuration and parameters impact the geometry of the beam and, by extension, the quality of the data.

In particular, the kind of application and the quality of data required will determine the instrument configuration to use. For industry projects, good detectors and versatile tubes are necessary. Changes can be made depending on the nature of the sample, for example, radiation used (Co, Cu, Fe tube), slit sizes, longer counting times, step size, and 2 theta range used.

An illustration of XRD

Additionally, appropriate software to process the X-ray diffractograms and access to comprehensive structure databases for pattern matching or quantification routines is essential.

preparation in the acquisition of

Accurate data, key decisions All in all, from the foregoing, the significance of sound sample

during the feasibility stage as

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high-quality XRD data does not have to be overstated. This is more because mining companies need accurate information about a project accurate data informs key decisions to be taken.

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Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023 33

FEATURE

Concord Cranes: South Africa’s Answer to Mobile Crane Hire and Rigging Specialists From mobile crane hire to the transportation of abnormal wind turbines for the renewable energy sector, Concord Cranes offers turnkey services that are focussed on providing tailor-made services across Southern Africa.

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oncord Cranes are one of the leading mobile and heavy lift crane specialist companies in South Africa, equipped to service a variety of industries through turnkey solutions and a fleet of high-performance machines.

The company was born from a merger of trusted and well-established companies into one united and rejuvenated company in 2018.

From humble beginnings, the company’s legacy was built on family values, sheer passion, determination, and a clear vision to offer highlyspecialised crane, rigging, and transportation services across sub-Saharan Africa.

Mobile Crane Hire Across Southern Africa Concord Cranes proudly offers a range of mobile cranes for rent across a variety of industries in South Africa; from the construction and mining sectors to the industrial and agricultural sectors.

The company understands that their clients want equipment that is robust, dependable and reliable and that’s what they pride themselves in offering.

The company has established a powerful network across Southern Africa, offering a range of mobile cranes from specialist international manufacturers like Liebherr, Tandano, Terex, and

34 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

Grove. All the cranes in the company’s fleet have been meticulously prepared and load tested. It also offers specialised services with its crane hire solutions, including: • Lifting plans when necessary • Highly-qualified operators • Full safety compliance and statutory compliance • Full mechanical and maintenance service history • 24/7 mechanical breakdown backup and support The Concord Crane mobile crane fleet boasts over 180 cranes ranging from 7tons to 800tons.

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FEATURE The company offers a full spectrum of crane types, each with their own unique set of feature and benefits. The Concord Crane mobile crane fleet includes: • All-terrain cranes • Truck cranes • Rough terrain cranes A Heavy Lift Crane Fleet That Can Handle The Heaviest Applications The Concord Crane heavy lift crane fleet offer machines and solutions which are reliable, highly-specialised, and custom-suited to some of the heaviest heavy lifting requirements in South Africa. Concord Cranes has used these highend machines in many different industries across Africa including mining, renewable energy, oil and gas, ports, marine, and even automobiles.

Concord Cranes proudly boasts heavy lifting cranes from world-leading brands that offer a vast range of capabilities for specific projects.

The company’s heavy-lift fleet is representative of market-leading international brands such as Liebherr cranes and Terex cranes.

The Concord Crane fleet of heavy lift cranes include: • Liebherr LTM 1400-7.1 • Liebherr LTM 1500-8.1 • Liebherr LG 1750-8.1 • Liebherr LTM 1750-9.1 • Grove GMK6300 The Liebherr 1750-9.1 is one of the largest cranes in Southern Africa. The experienced heavy lift team at Concord Cranes ensure that clients are provided with the best heavy lift solutions to meet their unique needs including application, site and accessibility.

Turnkey Solutions Customised To Client Need Apart from an impressive fleet, the company is able to offer turnkey solutions that are designed to minimise supplier touch points, reduce overall project risk, and provide a service offering which is tailor-made to unique project requirements.

Concord Crane offers these services as part of their turnkey solutions: • In-depth route surveying and planning by partnering with highly-skilled civil engineering agencies.

• Specialised transport solutions • Construction during all phases of development (mob – demob) • Experienced personnel Concord Cranes guarantees meticulous preparation and planning as part of every rigging service they provide. When it comes to designing and installing a method for the safe, reliable transportation or installation of heavy equipment and materials, Concord Cranes offers the following solutions as part of their rigging services:

green energy parts and equipment throughout the country. An example of this specialised service, includes the transportation of wind turbines from port to installation sites.

Concord Cranes has the ability to service the renewable energy sector with a fleet of equipment which includes mobile cranes, rigging and heavy lift equipment, heavy load trucks and extendable trailers. It not only has the equipment but the expertise to perform this kind of highrisk project with a high level of accuracy and professionalism.

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Technical drawings and lifting plans CAD-based rigging studies Load testing Access to red seal riggers

Enabling The Renewable Energy Sector Thanks to the company’s highly specialised transport solutions and specifically the fleet of heavy lift cranes, Concord Cranes provides the renewable energy sector with competitive transport services through turnkey solutions.

The company has been a part of several largescale projects to move wind energy and

36 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

Specialists in Abnormal Load Transport Across The Continent In addition to transportation of turbines and blades for the renewable energy sector, Concord Cranes is able to offer other industries abnormal load transport services that include the moving of heavy-duty machinery, cranes, and other largescale equipment. The company has access to multi-axle extendable trailers that are able to handle the abnormal load with highly trained drivers and support staff to ensure the safe arrival of equipment and smooth project delivery A South African Footprint Concord Cranes has an established and powerful network across South and Southern Africa. The company has branches in every major point of entry and port in the country including Port Elizabeth, Richards Bay, Durban, and Cape Town. Inland branches include Bloemfontein, Orkney, Carletonville, Rustenburg, and Welkom with the company’s main Head Office based in Midrand, Johannesburg. The company also has branches at Namibian points of entry including Walvis Bay and Luderitz.

Concord Cranes: Unlock A World of Collaboration Whether Concord Cranes is providing a client with a mobile crane for a construction project, creating a turnkey rigging project with tailor-made requirements, or planning the transportation of wind turbines from PE to East London, the company will always provide its services with loyalty, foresight, integrity and excellence.

If you would like to know more about the fleet of mobile cranes, rigging services, and specialised transports and logistics, contact Director, Francois Smith, on 011 805 8071 or 083 630 7688.

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FEATURE Diamond beneficiation

South Africa: De Beers unveils new sorting facility DeBeers has relocated its sightholder sales activities in South Africa from Kimberley to the new facility in Johannesburg.

New diamond sorting and valuation facility in Sky Park Industrial

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ecently, De Beers Sightholder Sales South Africa (DBSSSA) officially unveiled its new rough diamond sorting, valuation and sales facility in Johannesburg an event attended by the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe, Gauteng MEC of Economic Development, Tasneem Motara, and De Beers Group CEO, Al Cook.

De Beers Group announced in January 2023 that it was relocating its Sightholder Sales activities in South Africa from Kimberley, where it has been operating since 1974, to Johannesburg following a review of its sorting activities in South Africa. The relocation supports the government’s strategy to consolidate the country’s mineral beneficiation sector into one area at the Gauteng

Industrial Development Zone, close to the OR Tambo International Airport.

The relocation also supports the company’s evolving footprint in the country over the past decade, with the world class Venetia mine in the Limpopo Province being its only active mine. With no mining activities in the Northern Cape since 2015, De Beers is consolidating its remaining operations to be in close proximity to provide efficiency in operating costs, greater effectiveness and to contribute towards the country’s national beneficiation agenda.

A total of 87 employees were successfully relocated from Kimberley to the new 6747 m2 facility in Sky Park Industrial in Johannesburg, which has two floors comprising Sightholder

38 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

offices, hand and machine sorting areas, a training academy and a diamond cleaning plant.

Honourable Gwede Mantashe, Minister of the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, said: “Whilst we congratulate De Beers for the grand opening of the Sightholder Sales facility, we also welcome the R35 billion investment in the unground mining in Limpopo. We encourage you to continue investing in South African mining, particularly in the Northern Cape and other Provinces. Doing so will help us change the economic architecture which stands on three legs Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.”

DBSSSA is part of the Global Sightholder Sales network that sells rough diamonds

Unveiling of the palque

for beneficiation purposes in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Canada. It is also responsible for the distribution of De Beers rough diamonds in South Africa and seeks to support the industry at large in maintaining a sustainable diamond manufacturing industry through its beneficiation strategy.

The beneficiation strategy is aligned to the South Africa government’s local beneficiation objectives and engages in a range of activities that aim to support and further the country’s economic goals. These include skills development, enterprise development, industry development, as well as marketing and promotion of South Africa abroad.

In South Africa, DBSSSA has nine Sightholders that it sells rough diamonds to 10 times a year. The consistent and predictable supply of rough diamonds to South African Sightholders supports their ability to invest in local cutting and polishing factories and together, they have employed 620 cutters and polishers since 2020.

Last year, De Beers Group and several key industry players – including the SA Diamond and Precious Metals Regulator, the SA Diamond Manufacturers Association, the SA Diamond Dealers Club and the State Diamond Trader – partnered to launch a Small Beneficiator Customers (SBC) pilot programme with seven identified cutting and polishing businesses receiving assistance.

The objective of this programme is to broaden supply and access of rough diamonds to small South African owned beneficiation companies. To further assist emerging businesses with access to affordable rough diamond parcels, De Beers Group is offering SBCs parcels of diamonds consisting of an

aggregated mix of diamonds from its mines in Namibia, Botswana, Canada and South Africa.

The SBC programme follows the successful launch of the Enterprise Development Project for Diamond Beneficiators in 2016, which saw one of its alumni companies, Molefi Letsiki Diamonds, becoming the first majority black owned South African Sightholder for the De Beers Group. Nungu Diamond, a company that was also part of the first cohort, entered into a partnership with Pluczenik, a De Beers Group Sightholder, to establish Pluczenik SA, headed

by Nungu Diamond’s owner Kealeboga Pule.

Now in its second cohort, the Enterprise Development Project aims to facilitate the growth and transformation of diamond

beneficiation in South Africa. The focus is on delivering this through a holistic approach that seeks to optimise interventions in all aspects of the diamond pipeline from rough diamond purchasing, state of the art manufacturing of diamonds and jewellery, to marketing and distribution.

To date, 10 diamond cutting and polishing companies have benefitted from the groundbreaking Enterprise Development Project, with 60% of these companies being women owned and 80% black owned. Each participating company received an allocation of rough diamonds from De Beers Group, in line with their market requirements and capacity. In addition, the project facilitated local and international market access and sponsored their participation at international trade shows, including the Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair and JCK Las Vegas.

Moses Madondo, Managing Director of De Beers Group Managed Operations, said: “South Africa is a significant source of rough diamonds and aside from helping to upskill the industry, it is important for us as diamond producers to assist small beneficiation customers with access to affordable parcels of rough diamonds. We are excited to now be located in the beneficiation hub where we can continue working with our partners to further support the local beneficiation industry. South Africa is sharply focused on being internationally competitive, and with government’s support as envisaged through the GIDZ, the country is well placed to support the growth of its beneficiation sector.”

Hon Minister Gwede Mantashe and De Beers Group CEO, Al Cook

Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023 39

FEATURE Sociometric data for mining projects

Disrupting the traditional value chain, revolutionising the industry Sociometric sensors measure things such as eye contact, voice pitch, body orientation and proximity to others, all of which can be analysed and used to add value.

By Roland Innes

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be combined with other data from wearables, such as heart rate, breathing rate, pulse oxygen levels, and more, to deliver enhanced value.

he mining industry is rapidly evolving as mines embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) with increasingly sophisticated equipment and automation.

The ‘connected mine’ has become a reality, driving increased production, improving safety, optimising equipment utilisation and more.

However, alongside this technological revolution, we are also seeing both leadership and employee competence struggling to keep up. People, leadership, and human behaviour are not being integrated with 4IR technologies, which can cause numerous challenges. Sociometric sensors with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) capabilities can help to address this challenge, disrupt the traditional value chain, and constructively improve culture, behaviour, and leadership within mines.

Built on technology, underpinned by people From heavy machinery and working at scale, the mining industry has now progressed to continuous and autonomous production, with an increased emphasis on electrification, renewables, and the reduction of emissions.

Safety remains a priority, and with 4IR technologies that offer increased automation and autonomy, people can be moved away from the coal face and farther from danger.

However, despite technological advances, mines still rely heavily on the human component.

As a result, suboptimal human behaviour and leadership have a significant negative impact on production, equipment utilisation, safety, and the environment. People and leadership are obstacles on the road to leveraging technology and achieving increased production output, enhanced equipment utilisation, and better safety. Mining organisations need to look at human behaviour and leadership solutions that will complement technology, improve people and leadership performance, and improve metrics that matter across the board.

Measure it to manage it Sociometric sensors measure things such as eye contact, voice pitch, body orientation and proximity to others, all of which can be analysed and used to add value. This is done by collecting data that can be used to support leadership in improving production, equipment utilisation and safety. Through machine learning, this data can be further used to predict what behaviour contributes to specific outcomes.

For example, certain sociometric data could suggest that an accident is imminent. This could function as a prompt to shut down equipment or warn employees. Sociometric data can also be used to objectively assess different leadership and learning styles and measure performance against KPIs, with data as evidence to help drive behaviour change. This information can also

40 Mining Mining Business Business Africa Africa | | May May -- June June 2023 2023 40

Disruption drives innovation A positive impact on human efficiency and leadership can be enormously beneficial, but human behaviour is typically difficult to objectively measure and monitor. Sociometric sensor technology can effectively address this challenge and help mines bridge the gap between machinery advances and human performance, giving mining organisations the ability to measure and monitor metrics around social and emotional intelligence as well as traditional metrics of leadership and engagement.

Sensor output from machines and the environment, together with sociometric sensors, can be integrated to create a complete picture of what is happening at any point in time in a mine, with live feedback and ML to radically transform every element of the connected mine.

By mapping leadership and personal interactions against real data, mining organisations will be able to understand what behaviour produces certain results and adjust behaviour and leadership styles in real-time.

By integrating disruptive technologies such as mining automation technology, renewable energy technology, and sociometric sensor technology into mine and process design in an innovative way, it is possible to achieve radical performance improvement breakthroughs.

Roland Innes is Group CEO at DYNA Training

FEATURE

Goscor Access Solutions: Leaders in Access & Lifting Equipment in Sub-Saharan Africa Goscor Access Solutions offers mobile access and lifting equipment from class-leading brands across a variety of industries in South and Southern Africa. Find out more about the company, its products, and its vision now.

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more recently, Palazzani. GAS has sourced from only the best suppliers worldwide, offering the most technologically advanced machinery available on the African continent today.

Exclusive Agents of Class-Leading Brands We are proud to be exclusive agents to some of the most prestigious international manufacturers in the world including Genie, Holland Lift, and,

Leaders in Access Equipment, Material Handling, Lifting, and Lighting GAS boasts some of the highest access equipment available in the African market, including: • The highest diesel and electric scissor lifts (27m & 22m working height respectively) • The highest crawler boom lifts or spider lifts (at 37m & 43m) GAS has recently introduced the high capacity XC (or Xtra Capacity) and hybrid (FE or Fuel Electric) boom lifts from Genie, and the energy efficient E-Drive electric scissor lifts too.

These machines have rapidly gained popularity across a variety of industries and are being

stablished in 2011, Goscor Access Solutions (GAS) has become worldrenowned for offering the latest generation mobile access and lifting equipment for a variety of industries in the sub-Saharan African market, always ensuring performance and safety when working at height. The GAS team comprises of industry experts and technical specialists committed to providing superior service and support no matter the application or expectation.

From low-level personnel lifts for indoor work to diesel super booms able to work at 57 metres high on mega-projects across Africa, GAS has mobile access and lifting equipment for every possibility.

increasingly demanded in the market.

In lifting or material handling applications, GAS distributes the ultra-tough Snorkel telehandlers and UNIC spider cranes. In 2022, GAS was appointed the official distributor for Terex RT (Rough Terrain) cranes, which boasts lifting capacities of up to 90 tons.

Rounding off the list of equipment brands from GAS, is the Pramac range of lighting towers. Compact, energy-efficient and reliable, these can be seen in use across the African continent from Cape Town to the DRC. GAS’s range of lighting towers are popularly used for a diverse selection of applications from sporting events to harsh condition mining environments.

The GAS Full Product Offering GAS offers a diverse fleet of over 1000 mobile access and lifting machines for multiple applications. Whether you require “up and over” reach, material moving and lifting, or rugged

Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023 41

FEATURE

terrain access, choose GAS for all your material handling and access machinery requirements.

Our fleet of machines includes: Mobile Elevating Work Platforms • Boom Lifts (Cherry Pickers) • Scissor Lifts • Personnel Lifts • Crawler / Spider boom lift Access & Lifting Solutions: • Telehandlers • Spider Cranes • Rough Terrain Cranes Innovation Keeps GAS In The Lead These innovative products not only keep GAS at the forefront of the African market, but, more importantly, they offer clients absolute peace of mind in terms of safety and productivity in line with the latest international developments in access equipment, lifting and lighting.

In addition to the GAS product ranges, the company offers a support and service department that is second to none. Support in terms of parts and service is managed out of strategically located branches across South Africa where factory trained technicians are available every single day, all year around. By offering this high-functioning support service,

GAS is able to offers its clients the ability to enjoy minimal downtime and maximum productivity.

GAS also offers a spare parts division that ensures various parts are readily accessible through the same branches for both service and repairs. Non-stock items are flown in daily where necessary.

Safety: At The Heart of The Business With safety at the heart of the business, training is offered by fully accredited staff as part of every sale and rental. GAS is registered with a variety of accreditation bodies in South Africa including the IWH and SETA. The company is also a proud member of IPAF internationally.

ISO 45001 accreditation ensures the company’s adherence to global standards and best practices, prioritising the well-being and safety of staff and customers.

Prestigious Projects Across Africa GAS has a long-standing reputation built on over 12 years of rental and sales excellence. GAS has worked on several prestigious infrastructure and construction projects in both South and Southern Africa. Examples of these successful projects include: • The construction of the Mohembo and Msikaba bridges (still under construction)

42 Mining Business Africa | May - June 2023

• •

Ongoing construction of oil and gas projects in Tanzania and Mozambique •Construction of the Kusile and Medupi Power Stations in South Africa

GAS Offers a Superior Service Promise GAS prides itself on being a ‘solutions’ driven company, actively engaging with both clients and suppliers to ensure the African market has access to the same technologies as the rest of the world. GAS offers the best quality products and a renowned support division which includes service, parts and training.

The company stands firm in its promise to be one of the safest, most responsible, and ethical companies in Africa, providing solutions that are right, cost-effective, reliable, and exceed all expectations.

If you would like to know more about the fleet of access equipment, material, handling, lifting, and lighting machinery that Goscor Access Solutions provides, contact National Sales Manager, Marcus Gartside, for more information on 011 393 6437 or 079 519 6553.

Access and Lifting Solutions Specialists

Lifting Materials and Personnel 24/7/365 since 2011.

Offering: Sales and Rental | Technical Support, Service and Parts | Specialist Training For info on our access and lifting solutions, contact us: goscoraccesssolutions.co.za | +27 79 519 6553

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