Mining Portfolio - Outlook Publishing

MINING PORTFOLIO

FEATURING: GOLD FIELDS AUSTRALIA PREMOGOVNIK VELENJE (VELENJE COAL MINE) REDPATH AUSTRALIA MOTA-ENGIL AFRICA

GOLD FIELDS AUSTRALIA

MINING

Core and Community Gold Fields Australia showcases the potential of employee, environment, and community-centric business. We spoke to Stuart Mathews, Executive Vice President: Australasia, to learn more Writer: Marcus Kääpä | Project Manager: Joshua Mann

W

ith 140 years to its name, Gold Fields continues to be a key player in the international gold mining industry.

The firm places innovation and local communities at the fore and drives the promotion of environmental wellbeing through impactful investments in sustainability practices – developments that place it above and apart from its industry competition.

In a positively unorthodox way, and despite being one of the largest gold producers in the world, Gold Fields places its core values above all others and incorporates each of these into every aspect of its business. The firm focuses on becoming the best, rather than the biggest, gold mining firm on the globe.

A change to the revenue-focused aims of the gold mining industry, the company aims to align its key values alongside that of profit so that it benefits all aspects involved with the production process: the growth of

business, the inclusion of community, and the preservation and promotion of the environment.

Its head office is based in Johannesburg, South Africa, and oversees four regions of the business crossing multiple continents, including South Africa, the Americas (Chile and Peru), West Africa (Ghana), and Australasia - the latter region being the third largest gold producer in the nation.

“The firm’s Australian region embraces the vision and values of the company,” begins Stuart Mathews, Executive Vice President of Gold Fields Australia (GFA).

GFA produces just over one-million ounces of gold annually and is responsible for 44 percent of the broader group’s international gold yield, with approximately 1700 direct employees across four mines and regional offices.

This makes the Australia branch an intrinsic part to the success of the wider company on the international stage.

APAC Outlook issue 48 | 3

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GOLD FIELDS AUSTRALIA It was Mathews’ interest in geology that led him to a career in the gold mining industry. Initially inspired by his father’s own interest in geography and the process of geographical formations, Mathews went on to study geology at university and became an underground mine geologist after graduating with a masters in the field.

His work covered multiple areas of geology, such as mine geology,

production, and general operations management, that took him around the globe to work in a number of different nations, from New Zealand and Australia, to a variety of areas of South America, and Mexico. Mathews is proud to have worked in the mining sector for almost 30 years - eight of which he has spent with GFA. The company has been operating in West Australia for a substantial

AT A GLANCE GFA’S AUSTRALIAN MINES ST. IVES (OPEN PIT AND UNDERGROUND) There are two main open pits (Neptune and Invincible), and two underground mines (Invincible and Hamlet) with new UG extensions planned in 2021 and 2022. One gold processing plant with a throughput capacity of 4.7 million metric tonnes per annum (Mtpa) consisting of a primary gyratory crusher, a single-stage Semi Autogenous Grind (SAG) mill with a gravity circuit and five-stage Carbon in Pulp (CIP) circuit.

Gold is recovered by electro winning. St. Ives produces a consistently at approximately 360,000 ounces of gold per annum.

AGNEW (UNDERGROUND) Two underground complexes at Warronga and New Holland mines and one processing plant, with a capacity of 1.3 Mtpa consisting of a threestage crushing circuit, two-stage milling circuit, gravity circuit, and CIP circuit. Currently the mine produces 225,000 to 230,000 ounces per annum. The company has approved a three year strategic plan to increase crushing and milling capacity to 1.7 Mtpa. The proposed mill feed increase underpinned by exploration success of the last two to three years.

GRANNY SMITH (UNDERGROUND) One active underground mine at Wallaby. A processing plant with a capacity of 3.5 Mtpa consisting of two crushing circuits, SAG and ball mills, leach and CIP circuits, and a tailings retreatment circuit. However, it is mine constrained and currently operates at 1.5 Mtpa on a campaign milling basis.

The Granny Smith mine produces approximately 260,000 ounces of gold per annum.

GRUYERE (OPEN PIT) The main Gruyere open pit commenced mining in the fourth quarter of 2018. The processing plant, with a capacity of 8.2 Mtpa, consisting of single stage crush and SABC1 circuit with pebble crushing was commissioned in mid-2019. The plant achieved commercial production at the end of September 2019 and ramp-up to steady state is well advanced. The Gruyere mine produces approximately 280,000 to 300,000 ounces per annum on a 100 percent JV basis.

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20 years since the acquisition of St. Ives and Agnew mines from Western Mining in 2001. In 2013 Gold Fields acquired the Granny Smith, New Holland, and Darlot mines from Barrick. In 2016, Gold Fields took 50 percent ownership in the Gruyere Gold Project and operating management of the mine in Joint Venture with Gold Road Resources.

“I think back to when we first bought old operations back in 2001,” he says. “The company was criticised regarding its market actions at the time. The question on other peoples’ minds: why would you be buying expired and aging mining assets?’

“I’ve been here a long time and haven’t been able to see the end of them. 20 years later and we still have those core assets in our portfolio, and they are producing very well they still have significant life, provide consistency in production, and continue to yield great results.

“We have substantial tenements around our operating mines and, as long as we continue to invest at the right level of exploration, the mines remain sustainable for the long-term delivering growth of resources and reserves. We intend to be a compelling presence in Western Australia gold mining for a long time.”

The industry today reflects this success - Australian gold prices are at a record high. However, it’s not only gold that is being the focus of rising value in industrial mining activity.

The past year has seen a major uplift in the mining of silver, iron ore, and various alternative resources in industrial operations. Zinc, copper, and nickel are just some of the primary metals in the crosshairs of companies in the Australian region at the moment.

“Nickel usually has long protracted down periods, but when it goes up it rises well

We understand that an underground mine is a demanding environment

The video link below demonstrates a range of functions, some of which will soon to be deployed at the Granny Smith site.

Dangerous areas, narrow roads and winding curves are all daily obstacles that threaten workforce safety.

Every unforeseen event, such as traffic collisions and other accidents, puts lives in danger and weakens production. Safety must be guaranteed and Epiroc together with Mobilaris Mining & Civil Engineering (MCE) is proud to partner with Goldfields and support these needs and the integrated platform project.

https://vimeo.com/478074376

Increasing Underground Safety at Gold Fields’ Granny Smith Mine Epiroc, together with Mobilaris MCE, is proud to deliver a variety of safety solutions that will help to ensure the safety of Gold Fields’ staff. The leading product portfolio Mobilaris Mining Intelligence™ includes a variety of digital solutions that are interconnected and developed in close collaboration with the mining industry, always with ease of use as a top priority. The solutions are totally technology agnostic and can easily be integrated with any infrastructure and systems that help maximize customer value. . Based on real-time information, the cutting-edge solutions seamlessly work together to increase safety and productivity of the mining operations.

By collecting reliable real-time information and positioning data, this is then represented on a 3D-map, which will allow Gold Fields’ control room staff to view who is in a safe zone and assist those who are not to reach a place of safety in the shortest time. Other features will allow Gold Fields’ staff to be pre-warned of potential dangers, allowing decisions to be made to mitigate risks and incidents.

The result is a safer and less stressful workplace.

Quote from Michael Place, Technical Services Manager, Granny Smith Gold Mine, Gold Fields “The Mobilaris project at Granny Smith has been well supported by Mobilaris from both their Australian and Swedish offices. The offsite support has been very positive, addressing all the issues and challenges experienced with deploying new technology. The project highlights one of the first deployments of an LTE network underground in Australia, along with the rollout of Bluetooth tracking beacons and Mobilaris Onboard.”

Quote from Mikael Nyström, CEO Mobilaris Mining & Civil Engineering “Mining safety is one of our top priorities and we are very happy that Granny Smith Gold Mine, Goldfields, has chosen us as partner for taking the safety of their mining operations to the next level. With Mobilaris Mining Intelligence, we will be able to provide digital solutions that defines a safer mine and safer ways of working”, says Mikael Nyström, CEO Mobilaris Mining & Civil Engineering.

www.epiroc.com | www.mobilaris.se/mining-solutions

Supporting Mining and Earthmoving Industry COMPLETE HOSE RANGE Hardy Spicer is Australia’s Premier distributor of the Gates Connected range of integrated hydraulic hose and fittings products.

Gates hoses are engineered and tested to be used as a fully matched system to ensure uncompromising safety of your workers and operators with the highest level of reliability. A Gates hose assembly supplied by Hardy Spicer simply WILL NOT LEAK. We back this up with a 100% LEAK FREE GUARANTEE!* 14 SERVICE CENTRES LOCATED ACROSS AUSTRALIA Hardy Spicer’s OEM Partsfinder database has an extensive database of OEM hose interchange information that allows the prompt manufacture and supply of hose assemblies as required to eliminate downtime. Hardy Spicer has over 100,000 hoses listed in its catalogue and is growing all the time!

INDUSTRIAL HOSE FOR MINING APPLICATIONS Hardy Spicer are equipped to handle any heavy-duty, high pressure and high abrasion resistant design covering both open-cut and underground mining applications. Hose is an integral part of most equipment in mining and it’s imperative to have the best quality hose & fittings available to minimise any possible downtime.

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GOLD FIELDS AUSTRALIA and continually for a short period,” Mathews informs us.

“We believe we’re starting to see signs that nickel is about the take off. That is direct competition for our business and gold in general because both metals share the same sort of mining methodology and will generate increased demand for professional and technical skills.”

SUSTAINABILITY INVESTMENT GFA’s company values are no better represented than the positive aims it strives to incorporate in all areas of its business. One key value stands out above the rest as a paramount aspect to the mission-based function of the company.

Environmental sustainability is a primary focus of the firm’s current and future endeavours. Reducing its carbon footprint is a major aim for the firm, and it has taken multiple steps, and invested heavily, in ensuring that it

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moves into the future while continuing to be a greener organisation.

“Our vision and values are what attracted me to the company just about eight years ago.” Mathews tells us. “We can absolutely run a business on these values, and they are practically achievable, and they are incredibly beneficial to the company, the employees, and of course, the communities and environment where we operate.”

The firm produces 2.5 million ounces of gold per year that shows how the aspects of production efficiency and positive sustainable company values and practices can work alongside one another.

The company is also ensuring that there is a complete switch from carbon to renewable energies, that includes the reduction of the use of diesel in the business. Currently, five percent of GFA’s energy usage consists of diesel, with the amount set to drop further in

the future.

“We do what we can to be the best in sustainable mining and being around for the long term,” Mathews elaborates.

“We ensure this continues on a daily basis, with real investment and a shared belief with our partners to reduce our carbon footprint. No matter how remote our sites are, we believe that we have a social responsibility to the local community and the environment, while managing our business around climate risk.

“We are acting on this responsibility now.”

GFA has carried out this promise of carbon-crackdown within its business through focusing on the incorporation of renewable energy alternatives to power machinery and operations.

“Gold Fields believes in getting diesel out of our business. Currently in Australia only five percent of our energy comes from diesel,” Mathews confirms.

Having been established in Australia since 1949, Hardy Spicer leads the way in providing tailored hose and fittings solutions. With 14 fully equipped workshops in all major capital cities and key regional centres, they have long been established as premium service provider. “Key to our sustained success is our partnership with Gates providing world class product to complement our local services” says Adam Bek, National Business Manager for Hardy Spicer’s Fluid Division. “Gates products are market leading, and offer unrivalled performance and service life.

Their latest MXT and MXG range of hoses are truly innovative, rationalizing stock held on mine sites, reducing installation times and OH&S issues often faced with larger hose construction. This translates to more uptime for mobile plant and less risk of injury on site – both of which have bottom line impacts”.

Hardy Spicer has the ability to tailor its offer to individual businesses; from simple product supply to hose assemblies fully tested and certified to MDG41.

On site, Hardy Spicer can provide fully equipped air-conditioned hose service containers with stateof-the-art crimp machines, and managed inventory services to ensure the right products are available while minimizing the working capital impact to your business. For a total solution, Hardy Spicer through its fleet of 1800HOSEVAN service vehicles can provide full onsite hose services; assessing, removing, replacing and installing hoses 24/7.

The mobilization of fully equipped and stock containers to sites, and ensuring these are maintained on an ongoing basis has been pivotal in Hardy Spicer’s relationship with major mining customers such as Goldfields Australia. “Sites cannot afford unnecessary downtime” according to Billy Cumming, Hardy Spicer’s Manager in the Goldfields region. “Goldfields Australia expects a

very high standard from its service partners which we are proud to be; and our ability to deliver this is through a combination of high quality products and high quality services”. The combination of local expertise, product and consistent delivery is what has established Hardy Spicer as the clear leader in Hose services in the Goldfields region. “Having the best product is not enough” says Billy, “it has to be backed up with local resource and consistently high standards of service and delivery. Our ability to maintain these high standards is something we are very proud of and this is reflected in our customers feedback”.

Hardy Spicer’s strong pedigree is not limited to the Goldfields region. “We work with major miners across Australia” explains Michael Verschaeren, Hardy Spicer’s Mining Sales Manager. “Our national footprint and scale make us an ideal partner, being part of Motion Asia Pacific – Australia’s largest Industrial parts supplier”. With services tailored to meet the needs of each site, Hardy Spicer’s Hose Management system allows mines to track hose assets, measure uptime, provide analysis of failures and expedite replacement hoses through rapid access to hose build data. “Our hose tracking systems coupled with our hose databases means we know what is on site, how long its been there and if we are seeing repetitive issues” says Michael.

“Having information at your fingertips means we are able to ensure stocks are held in the right place, in the right quantity and a new hose can be ready for a quick change”.

To explore how Hardy Spicer’s hose solutions can help keep your assets in motion, contact Michael at michael.verschaeren@hardyspicer.com.au, or on 0417 711 267

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GOLD FIELDS AUSTRALIA

Aquila Mining PTY LTD Key Business Strengths Our knowledge of mine backfill operations is backed up by experiences across a diverse customer base within the mining resource sector. We can deliver a complete source to stope solution from recovery and pre-conditioning of raw materials to production and conveyance of engineered fill mediums delivered to the underground mine voids.

Aquila staff and employees are extensively trained and fully conversant with the operating requirements and standards required on all mine sites. By embracing a diverse workforce, we are committed to creating employment and economic development opportunities for the communities in which we operate.

Renewable Energy Project Agnew is leading the way in the transition to renewable power for off-grid mining operations. The Agnew Hybrid Renewable Project is Australia’s largest hybrid renewable energy microgrid and the first to utilise wind generation at a mine site This commitment from GFA showcases its active search and implementation of alternative ways of energising its operations, reinforcing the company’s sustainabilityfocused values for the betterment of communities and the environment.

The company partnered with energy company EDL to carry out the development of a hybrid power solution for the Agnew mine comprising a four megawatt (MW) solar facility, and 18 MW wind farm, underpinned by natural gas.

The new power plant allows a substantial 60 percent of GFA’s energy for its on-site locations being made up of renewables, even reaching as much as 80 percent for multiple hours in optimal conditions - a high standard of business sustainability that is only moving forward and increasing.

The investment at Agnew has also generated great motivation and pride 12 | APAC Outlook issue 48

Health, Safety and Environmental awareness is of prime importance to Aquila and is encapsulated in our central organisational initiatives.

from our employees.

At the Granny Smith mine we have also recently commissioned an eightmegawatt solar facility in partnership with Aggreko and a battery storage solution. The increased power was required as our mine was getting deeper and again provided a great opportunity to invest in a renewable and sustainable energy solution going forward.

“In order to provide our remote sites with energy solutions, the notion of running powerlines for hundreds of kilometres is not ideal,” Mathews elaborates.

“That’s why the solar facilities, and wind-power facility, have been so valuable. They have allowed two of our mine sites to run on renewable or alternative energy solutions across the board. In comparison, diesel now looks like a great expense; both financially, and of course, for the environment.”

At Aquila we work closely with our clients to deliver continuous productivity improvement systems to enhance performance and efficiency at all interfaces. Our forte is the seamless integration of mine fill systems into existing operations, built on outcomes that are backed by underlying service guarantees - embracing joint business improvement teams to measure performance.

Aquila has developed strong relationships over many years with most of the major mining companies throughout Australasia. Through these working relationships, Aquila has become proficient in understanding client requirements and has become the preferred supplier of Paste Fill Services in W.A.

www.aquilamining.com

SPECIALISING IN UNDERGROUND MINE FILL Aquila Mining Pty Ltd was established in July 2003 and began operating specifically in the field of backfill, servicing underground mines within the Eastern Goldfields region of Western Australia.

At Aquila we pride ourselves on delivering cost effective results through our capable and

dedicated teams, best practice systems and processes utilising purpose developed equipment.

Administrative improvements within our business recently have been introduced to further enhance relationships with our key business partners be they clients, suppliers, or Aquila Staff.

OUR SERVICES PASTE FILL - Re-pulped and Wet Tailings - Plant Design and Installation - Mix and System Design - UG Reticulation Design and Installation - Whole of Process Operation - Tailings Pre-Conditioning CEMENTED AGGREGATE / ROCK FILL - Aggregate Production - Slurry Production - Plant Supply and Operation CUSHING AND SCREENING - Underground Road Base

- Mill feed circuits - Back Fill and road making Mediums CIVIL WORKS & CONSTRUCTION - Road Base Production - Moisture Conditioning (OMC) - Cement Stabilisation - Emulsion Stabilisation - Fumigation STABILISED BACK FILL - Runway, Tarmac and Hardstand - Drainage Culverts - Bridge and Highway

support of strategic assets across multiple sites within Australasia.

-

Stackers / Feeders Binder Silos and Feeders Crushers and Screens Pugmills

ALL HIRE ENGAGEMENTS ARE SUPPORTED BY - Process set up and advice - Operator Training and Assessment - Preventative Maintenance Programs

MACHINE AND PLANT HIRE We specialise in the development and

Office 61 8 9410 1763 | admin@aquilamining.com | www.aquilamining.com

GOLD FIELDS AUSTRALIA And when it comes to company projects this sustainability aim is at the centre of developments - GFA is looking to decarbonise its mining operations throughout 2021 and beyond.

This applies to each of the company’s active sites, including those under construction such as its new Solares Norte project based in Chile.

PARTNERSHIPS AND TECHNOLOGY

STUART MATHEWS

We have good, trusted, and important partners.

We are associating ourselves with companies that are looking to have the ability and commitment to working with new technology and introduce and adapt this technology into our businesses to help us move forward, advance, and reach our company goals and aims.

We are really talking about modernisation in our business, and this comprises of utilising the great initiative from our people that provide innovative ways of doing their jobs, combined with new technologies. All of these, if we remain current, will help manage and control cost, improve productivity and efficiency, and reduce exposure of our people and assets to risk and potential harm. It’s good business.

This is due to us currently having quite an aggressive roadmap on the technology front, yet we still need partner companies to work with us.

We are looking ahead to incorporate technology alongside business partnerships to prepare for the future of the industry.

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“We are also continuing our aggressive exploration of our four Australian sites. This will consist of an approximate investment of $75 million and should extend the reserve base and life of the mines. This is on top of our substantial sustainability investments,” Mathews explains.

PEOPLE-CENTRIC AND COMMUNITY BUSINESS The quality operation of GFA’s mining sites is not only down to the utilisation of the latest industrial technologies, but also down to its hard-working employees. The company strives to ensure that employee recognition is a consistently integrated factor in the workplace, and that individual semi-autonomous leadership is implemented to provide workers with a truth behind their work – that they are the individuals that make GFA work.

“We have a recognition reward system for people that live and

breathe the values of the company,” Mathews elaborates.

“We’re very big on empowerment, health and safety of our people. Two of the things we’ve implemented are the Courageous Safety Leadership (CSL) and Vital Behaviours (VB) programmes. The CSL programme transmits teachings and experiences from the management and the workforce straight down to the ground level and is an emotional day of personal commitment.

“The VB programme has been running for over six years now and focuses on involvement of the programme from the ground up with “story-telling” from our employees and identifying core behaviours that commonly lead to incidents, accident and harm.

“From there we develop vital behaviours to improve the health and wellbeing of all. Combined with CSL and VB, along with field level risk assessment and socialisation of

MINING

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IPP (WA) OUR HISTORY Under the current management Industrial Protective Products (WA) commenced on September 1st 1984.

Industrial Protective Products (WA) is a wholly owned Western Australian Company operating as a “true specialist safety house” supplying PPE, including footwear and clothing to the mining, construction and associated industries throughout Western Australia.

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IPP(WA) see our alliance partners as our first priority and continue to develop our business and our people with feedback from our alliance partners.

IPP(WA) and Goldfields Australia have enjoyed and long standing, evolving alliance partnership for some 20 years. We continue to work together to provide and offer both parties an inclusive, engaging and respectful relationship to protect our most valuable asset our people.

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“We’re very big on empowerment, health and safety of our people. Two of the things we’ve implemented are the Courageous Safety Leadership (CSL) and Vital Behaviours (VB) programmes” APAC Outlook issue 48 | 15

GOLD FIELDS AUSTRALIA

GOLD FIELDS VALUES AT A GLANCE

RESPONSIBILITY: • We responsibly manage our impact on the environment and host communities.

Our values need to become the very fabric of our company – the go-to touchstone that we use every day to make all our decisions.

• We hold ourselves accountable for our actions and the impact we have on the environment and host communities.

SAFETY: • If we cannot mine safely, we will not mine.

• We care deeply about the safety of our people.

• We are vigilant about identifying unsafe behaviours and are not afraid to speak up.

• We work towards zero harm on a daily basis.

INTEGRITY: • We act with honesty, fairness and transparency.

• We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards.

• We use the Code of Conduct and company policies to guide us.

• We treat people in host communities with respect.

DELIVERY: • We strive for excellence and do what we say we will do.

• We pay attention to detail and take pride in what we do.

• We work hard to deliver on time and on budget.

• We take individual responsibility for our own work.

INNOVATION: • We encourage innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit.

RESPECT:

• We do not allow ourselves to be constrained by limiting beliefs.

• We treat all stakeholders with trust, dignity, and respect.

• We respond positively to creativity, spontaneity and innovative thought.

• We allow others to voice their views, even when they are different to or in conflict with our own.

• We are open to change and support new ways of working.

• We embrace, value and accept diversity and difference.

Gruyere Gold Mine

St Ives Gold Mine

Granny Smith Gold Mine

16 | APAC Outlook issue 48

MINING If you are an accountant, or biology degree, or if you have knowledge or experience of the energy sector there is potential for employment with GFA. And with technology becoming ever more present across varying industries that potential for widening the employment talent pool just gets bigger.”

2021 AND BEYOND

Gruyere Gold Mine

safety in the workplace have driven our safety performance to best performance. Gold Fields in Australia are now leading the safety direction of the greater company.”

The firm’s people-centric values align with that of its community goals.

With a focus on local community engagement, GFA holds key objectives related to, not only to provide employment to those local to company sites, but also to procure necessary resources and materials from local areas as well.

“Our mines are very isolated in areas of outback Western Australia, but our foremost commitment is to mutually benefit and support the areas of these operational sites. 25 percent of our procurement expenditure surrounds local communities, and through this we are conducting the right business practices to ensure the betterment of these communities,” Mathews comments.

With 2020 having been dominated by the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, GFA turned its focus to helping communities as much as it could.

“During this time of crisis, especially

last year when it caught everybody unaware, we felt like people in the general community in Western Australia needed help,” Mathews tells us.

“We decided to provide some funding directly to them and took this opportunity to contribute $300,000 dollars to aid people, split between the food bank and medical services, including Lifeline mental health service and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.”

GFA is also involved in sports sponsorship aimed to attract and provide employment to young talent in the sector. Direct sponsorship of Football West (the main football body in Western Australia) has allowed the company to support the general community further, and actively promote healthy sport, competition, and exercise alongside the provision of potential future employment for many.

“We are going to grow our active presence at these sports events, such as setting up company tents, where people can talk directly to us about various careers and pathways into the resources industry,” Mathews explains.

“The industry isn’t just about geologists, engineers, and truck drivers anymore - it’s a lot broader.

GFA has many aims and goals to work upon and reach by the end of this year and those that follow. The maintenance of quality operations and growth of yield is one of the key company aims, and continuation of sustainability promotion and practices is deemed an absolute necessity. One of the primary goals for the firm is providing help to all those individuals within the local site communities of Western Australia that require it.

Mathews ends on a positive note.

“A big delivery for us is that we have committed to a reconciliation action plan in Australia. We are one year into this journey, and it’ll take us about three or four years to deliver what we intend,” he elaborates.

“Within our indigenous and aboriginal people of Western Australia, we as a company are committed to acknowledging and actively promoting reconciliation, not just for ourselves, but for greater Australia. That includes recognising that the indigenous and aboriginal people represent approximately 2.5 percent of the national population and have been significantly disadvantaged over the last 200 years. To reconcile this, we are working with tribes to make a difference.”

GOLD FIELDS AUSTRALIA Tel: + 61 (08) 9211 9200 www.goldfields.com.au

APAC Outlook issue 48 | 17

PREMOGOVNIK VELENJE (VELENJE COAL MINE)

PHOTO BY KAVČNIK FB

18 | EME Outlook issue 38

MINING

STANDING SIDE-BY-SIDE C WITH SLOVENIA Premogovnik Velenje (Velenje Coal Mine) continues to supply vital coal to Slovenia’s energy mix, the operation representing one of the most sophisticated in Europe, with plans afoot to ensure its long-term future Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Thomas Arnold

oal has long played a critical role in Slovenia’s energy mix.

Home to rich deposits, the country still relies on lignite to produce around 30 percent of its electricity, activities which continue to provide stable employment and form the pillar of many communities.

It is a proud industry, one which Janez Roser has identified himself with from a very young age.

“Ever since I was a child, I watched the parades of uniformed men on Miners’ Day and, given that there were no miners in my family, I watched these dignified men with even greater interest,” he recalls. “This sense of pride and belonging that they radiated made a strong impression on me.

EME Outlook issue 38 | 19

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PREMOGOVNIK VELENJE (VELENJE COAL MINE) “After graduating from high school, I enrolled in the study of geotechnology and mining engineering, as I was attracted to the engineering challenges of building underground facilities. After completing my doctoral studies, I was offered the opportunity to work in the Premogovnik Velenje Group in the mine surveying and geodesy programme.

“Looking back, I am grateful to have taken the opportunity to work in the coal mining industry, as our work is full of challenges – it is demanding, but we still have a spirit of camaraderie, mutual help and pride, which are certainly feelings that enrich and fulfil every individual.”

Today, Roser serves as Premogovnik Velenje’s General Manager. The company operates at the Velenje Coal Mine in the Šaleška dolina valley, a basin in northern Slovenia nestled in the north-eastern pre-alpine foothills.

The mine feeds the Šoštanj Thermal

Power Plant with just over three million tonnes of coal a year, which in turn produces almost a third of the electricity consumed domestically.

Indeed, it represents a key chunk of what is a healthy and flexible Slovenian energy mix, with nuclear power also accounting for around 30 percent power generation and renewables another 30 percent (hydro being the dominant player here).

However, despite the balance of generation sources, the country was a net importer of electricity in 2019.

Coal production is also in decline, as a result of the closure at Rudnik Trbovlje-Hrastnik in 2013 and lower production at Velenje, which today is the only operation extracting from a Slovenian lignite deposit.

But the site remains a national and regional flagship – an ultramodernised mine which carries a formidable legacy behind it.

“Velenje Coal Mine is one of the

“LOOKING BACK, I AM GRATEFUL TO HAVE TAKEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO WORK IN THE COAL MINING INDUSTRY, AS OUR WORK IS FULL OF CHALLENGES...”

– JANEZ ROSER

22 | EME Outlook issue 38

largest and most modern deep coal mining sites in Europe,” Roser says proudly. “It operates on the largest Slovenian coal deposit and on one of the thickest known coal layers in the world.

“In 145 years of operation of the coal mine, nearly 220 million tonnes of lignite have been extracted from the lignite seam of thickness up to 165 metres, and there are still more than 100 million tonnes of coal reserves here.

“A clean and healthy environment represents important values for the company. Therefore, responsible and controlled environment management has been included in our strategy. In accordance with the legislation requirements, Velenje Coal Mine performs monitoring of impacts of mining works on the environment (ground, air, water and noise), and constantly strives to reduce them.”

Becker Mining Systems Group Becker Mining Systems AG with its subsidiaries (Becker Group) is a high-tech supplier in the fields of energy distribution technology, automation technology, communication technology and transportation technology.

We set international standards with our concepts for the operation of mines, which are geared towards safety and sustainability. We develop systems for the energy-efficient operation of mine infrastructures as well as logistics systems for the safety of the people and production streams, including the associated communication systems and the higher-level control and visualization software.

In the field of transport technology, we develop battery drives for rail & trackless vehicles, and conductor rail drives, both of which are particularly suitable for underground CO2-neutral applications.

All our systems meet the highest safety standards and serve to increase production.

Becker Mining Europe Becker Mining Europe, based in Germany, is developing innovative solutions for the mining industry in the areas of energy distribution, automation and communication for more than 50 years.

Our decades of experience flow into our 2020 product lines PROMOS 4.0 and ENDIS 4.0: We are breaking new ground in automation and power distribution solutions and support the mines enjoying the benefits of an ever-increasing amount of available data.

Being integrated in our software solutions MineView® and smartflow® such real-time-information enable our customers to achieve an optimized operations management.

And thanks to the modular and flexible design of our products, existing systems can be supplemented as well as expanded to meet future needs.

Becker-Warkop As a part of the Becker Mining Systems Group Becker-Warkop, located in Poland, is specialized in mining transport systems since 1991 and a worldwide leading supplier of mining equipment. Our diesel suspended monorail sets standards and still is highly demanded in both underground and surface mining operations in order to transport personnel or heavy equipment.

Due to the flexibility of the design, each of our products can be adapted to customer requirements, making it suitable even for other industries like tunnelling.

With the implementation of our new batterypowered transport systems we combine features such as efficiency, safety, simplicity of use and sustainability.

The flagship product of Becker-Warkop is the battery-powered CA-190 monorail using the latest technology with its upgraded LiFePO4 battery.

Over 30 locomotives of this type operate in various configurations in different mines: starting with standard-of-the-shelf setups – built with cabs for the transport of material, equipment and crew – to autonomous locomotives that can be remotely controlled.

Our battery technology is also used in floor-mounted locomotives. Such applications are currently implemented at Premogovnik Velenje coal mine located in Slovenia.

In more than 110 years of company history, with our products we have shaped the Mining Industry with Quality and Reliability worldwide.

With these values and our experience, we will continue to be a reputable supplier to underground mines around the world – today and in the future.

With our water hydraulic competence, we design individually tailored pump stations for underground mines. Whether high pressure pump station or water spray pump station, with or without water treatment, we manufacture certified pump systems with all the necessary approvals for underground mines all over the world. Hauhinco stands for high quality plunger pumps and systems producer that guarantee the necessary safety and reliability at the longwall.

With a big partner network all over the world Hauhico can give the customer the biggest benefit around water hydraulics applications.

We are proud to be a part of your success.

Engineering firm, producer and supplier of leading technology for economical use in mining and tunneling

hauhinco.de

Korfmann Maschinenfabrik was established in 1880 in Witten – the birthplace of Ruhr mining. Besides ventilation, the company was initially also involved in dismantling, loading and salvage. In 2001, the company began operating under the name Korfmann Lufttechnik GmbH and has since specialised in the design, construction, manufacture and installation of fans and ventilation systems for use above and below ground.

Korfmann Lufttechnik GmbH develops individual, special ventilation systems, for mining, wind tunnels or numerous tunnelling machines. The company also offers outstanding solutions for the increasingly important topics of energy and sound insulation, which are available on request.

The company’s many years of experience and high level of expertise are sought after and put to the test in a wide variety of applications: Whether mechanical jacking in tunnelling, drilling and blasting in mining or renovating tunnelling systems by means of push ventilation – the services and solutions from Korfmann Lufttechnik GmbH offer a breeze of fresh air and guarantee that the project goes off without a hitch.

korfmann.com

“we give impulses” For more than 23 years Premogovnik Velenje d.o.o. and Tiefenbach Controls Systems GmbH with its mother company Knapheide GmbH Hydraulik Systeme form a strong bond with the common goal of making coal production as safe, cost effective and efficient as possible. Tiefenbach Control Systems and Knapheide provides electric and hydraulic control units, auxiliary valves, hydraulic hoses and fittings to Premogovnik Velenje to upgrade existing longwalls and to improve them. With its equipment Tiefenbach Control Systems and Knapheide contribute one of the key factors to adapt to the continuously rising requirements of modern coal mining.

Premogovnik Velenjes goals of rationalizing coal production, developing clean technologies of coal consumption, optimisation and automation, ecology of work and occupational health and safety are part of our selfconception. This makes Premogovnik Velenje, Tiefenbach Control Systems and Knapheide not only economic partners but also partners of a joint vision of the future of coal mining. Together with the clear understanding of our responsibility to the environment all three companies are working together to ensure a lignite production with the least effect on ecology proving coal mining as a future-proof technology. As our company motto “we give impulses” indicates, a constant foresight into the future is always our goal.

Experience has no substitute • Eickhoff since 1864 Higher productivity with Eickhoff machines - Whether at one of the world‘s most productive mines on the southern hemisphere, whether in the cold winters in the Russian region of Workuta or whether with the worldwide biggest shearer loader in Inner Mongolia – Eickhoff mining machines are at the forefront. Eickhoff shearer loaders and continuous miners steadily set new standards as regards to quality and innovation.

Taking a look to a long partnership, Premogovnik Velenje with a fleet of 4 Eickhoff SL 300 stands for high technical and quality standards in operation. The Eickhoff SL 300 was first introduced back in 1995 as the shearer loader for low to mid seam applications. At that time the machine was originally equipped with two 220 kW cutter motors and two 35 kW DC haulage motors. Nowadays the Eickhoff SL 300 is equipped with two 480 kW cutter and two 90 kW AC haulage motors

eickhoff-bochum.de

due to Eickhoff´s consequent product development. Even though the cutter and haulage motor power has meanwhile been more than doubled, the original basic machine concept remained unchanged.

This is due to latest technology of manufacturing for Eickhoff gears and the availability of smaller electrical components specially designed and ruggedized for mining applications. The Eickhoff SL 300 has achieved production outputs of 600,000 t/month in high demand operations in the USA and Australia.

We are thankful to have Premogovnik Velenje as our strategic partner for technical improvements of our machines. Our trustful long lasting relationship initiated a variety of leading evolutions in underground coal mining. We are looking forward to continue this win-win partnership with Premogovnik Velenje.

“OUR SOLUTIONS, YOUR SUCCESS” • since 1976 •

siming.eu

thiele.de

THIELE is an innovative manufacturer with a long tradition in the production of round steel chains and forged parts for the Conveying and Lifting technology sectors.

Our products are used to mine hard coal, to lift, move and secure loads and to convey bulk materials.

tibacon.com

We guarantee you the best quality, easy handling and excellent service - Made in Germany. Our highly qualified engineers develop solutions that are indispensable in today’s conveying and lifting technology sector.

The THIELE tradition of providing top quality dates back 85 years. All of our production is conducted internally and subjected to very stringent quality controls, enabling us to ensure that our products meet the highest demands.

From our headquarters in Iserlohn, Germany, we supply high quality products to our customers throughout the world. Our global network enables us to provide top quality, exclusive service to customers in a total of 72 countries. Around the world, our customers rely on us and our products.

Each of our employees is dedicated to continuing this tradition – this is our pledge to you.

PREMOGOVNIK VELENJE (VELENJE COAL MINE) Beyond producing coal, major activities at Velenje Coal Mine include the mechanical and electrical design of underground facilities and opencast mining, designing of all types of underground facilities, drilling, geomechanical research, mine surveying, hydrogeological and technological services, and education services – a truly multifaceted operation.

And this is critical when looking through a long-term lens.

Although the deposit’s reserves are sufficient for another three decades of mining at the current output, the energy industry is shifting towards carbon neutrality, a reality which Roser and Premogovnik Velenje are already planning for.

“Due to shifts in the energy industry and the envisaged changes in the operation of the Šoštanj Thermal Power Plant, mining sites will in the most part close before lignite reserves are exploited,” Roser says.

PHOTO BY KAVČNIK FB

26 | EME Outlook issue 38

MINING AT VELENJE A BRIEF HISTORY The deposit in the region was first discovered as surface outcrops in the very eastern part of the seam. After local residents started to use the coal as a heating source, the first explorations took place in in the 19th century, with the first drilling activity taking place in 1875.

In 1887, the first mine at Velenje opened for business, and by 1927 the first lignite-powered plant was built near the site. In the years following the Second World War, production peaked in order to fulfil huge demand for electricity.

Such demand kept growing until the middle of the 1990s, at which point the Velenje Coal Mine was producing up to three quarters of Slovenia’s coal. In the mid-80s, production levels were as high as five million tonnes a year, but despite the modernised methods being used, output was barely keeping up with demand.

The post-war period also brought substantial coal-related investments into the Šaleška dolina valley – the town, infrastructure, schools, culture and sports are all areas that Premogovnik Velenje continues to invest in to this day.

OUR SOLUTIONS, YOUR SUCCESS - SINCE 1976

T

he company SIMING d.o.o. was founded in 1976 as a family owned private company with its headquarters in Slovenia since 1993.

The company’s main activities are distribution, representation and service of mining, tunnelling and low construction civil engineering equipment.40 years ago with the adoption of representation of ThyssenKrupp Bauservice, the company started the equipment rental business and entered the domain of special low construction civil engineering.

A good reputation and market success of the company SIMING in the area of former Yugoslavia has led to a program of representations, which belongs to the world’s elite suppliers of mining equipment for underground exploitation as well as equipment for special low construction.

As our long-term business partner, we must highlight Premogovnik Velenje mine. From the very beginnings of company SIMING, we are working closely with Premogovnik Velenje, supporting them in their vision, development and growth. In this long-term partnership we have managed to support Premogovnik Velenje with knowledge and experience of our principals, starting with company DBT which developed shield support allowing exploitation of 5-17 m of coal seam from the roof. This is so called “Velenje mining Method” and it is unique in the world. Back in the time DBT was one of the most famous world longwall shield support producers. Today after almost 40 years of cooperation Premogovnik Velenje is one of the most equipped & advanced underground mines in the world, and together with our principals like Eickhoff, Tiefenbach&Knapheide, Thiele, Hauhinco, Korfmann we are proud to be part of their success and vision.

Today the company Siming d.o.o. is one of the leading companies in the mining industry segment on the market of former Yugoslavia with tendency of steady growth. At the moment our company has an available warehouse as well as business facilities in Bosnia & Herzegovina, Slovenia and Serbia.

Prerequisites for our further success continue to be our friendly and correct relationship with our buyers, mutual trust and business conduct quality enjoyed by our foreign partners, fast delivery times, highest product quality, warranties as well as services through our partners or directly by us. With our almost 40year tradition and experiences on the market we wish to offer complete “turnkey” systems, where the customer is allowed to choose the best from the best manufacturers to ultimately receive everything from one hand in one package. We and all our principals, we always aspire to quality, innovation, develop and progress. That is why we can say we are a reliable partner to support you on your way to success.

Obrežje 7D | 8261 Slovenia | info@siming.eu | www.siming.eu

You connect us all Mining is at the heart of global supply chains providing the raw materials required for nearly every industry and consumer product. It’s your hard work that makes it possible for the world to work from home, learn online and keep up with friends and family.

Thank you.

Komatsu Mining Corp.

Bromyard Road Worcester WR2 5EG Phone:+44 370 252 1000 Visit us at: https://mining.Komatsu

PREMOGOVNIK VELENJE (VELENJE COAL MINE)

PHOTO BY ALEKSANDER KAVČNIK

PHOTO BY ALEKSANDER KAVČNIK

“A gradual closure of the mine and the abandonment of fossil fuels at Šoštanj power plant in the future will have a significant role in the country’s energy transition, as both companies represent an important energy pillar of Slovenia.”

There is also the Šalek valley community to consider. “The most important long-term challenge facing us is how to create attractive and well-paid jobs for the next generation,” Roser continues.

“There is an opportunity to improve the environment and health in the region, to invest into infrastructure and create more attractive local living 30 | EME Outlook issue 38

conditions for the local inhabitants.

Infrastructure that will stay after mining can be prepared in advance and take on new opportunities, serving other industries, education and tourism.

“There will be opportunities for new jobs in renewables which includes the production and installation of photovoltaic, biomass, related wood industries and more.

“From our perspective, we need to consider strengths in coal mining which can be utilised in civil construction, machinery and electrical activities, as well as new industries in accordance with smart specialisation

strategies and industry 4.0.”

THE VELENJE WAY But there is plenty of life still left in Velenje Coal Mine.

Indeed, Roser calls for a balanced approach between the objectives of the European Union and Slovenia’s national policy for a competitive, affordable and secure energy mix. Coal is still abundant in supply and relatively cheap, a factor which cannot be ignored when balancing environmental and economic priorities.

And Premogovnik Velenje continues to produce coal in a way that is reliable, safe and efficient.

A longstanding foundation builds longwall success The global coal mining industry continues to play a vital role in in ensuring ensuring that that the the world’s world’s growing population has adequate adequate access access to to electricity and the steel needed to support the rapid rise in in infrastructure infrastructure development. To To meet demands, demands, longwall mining operations continue continue to increase increase production while maintaining sustainable sustainable operations operations that that do not increase the safety risks to mine personnel.

One such operation in Slovenia and important for the life of the Šaleška Valley and the wider region is Premogovnik Premogovnik Velenje Velenje (PV) Velenje Coal Mine. With more than 145 years in lignite mining, PV is is continuously continuously seeking ways of optimising optimizing its operations to increase increase production to meet demand without increasing safety risks to its personnel. Our partnership with PV began back in the 1960s when a Joy loader was first supplied to the Velenje Coal Mine and used in the unmechanised unmechanized process of coal production.

As technologies progressed, and mechanized mechanised mining was introduced in the 1970s, Velenje Coal Mine selected our our longwall roof supports to handle their unique geological conditions. Throughout Throughout the 1990s, the Velenje Coal Mine continued to introduce modern modern longwall equipment, including heavy-duty Joy Armored Face Conveyor (AFC) systems, as well as a high-performance high-performance Joy Joy 4LS5 4LS5shearer, shearer, which went on to achieve mine production records.

Over the years, we’ve worked in a collaborative manner with PV to understand the conditions in which which their their equipment equipment operates operates and and the design features employed employed so we can help them achieve optimum performance.

Adopting this philosophy creates a platform to solve problems, allowing design to meet the mining operation’s operation’s expectations. expectations.

including cradle-mounted frames and line pans with suit the the mining mining methods methods needed needed to to integral cradles to suit production, while lowering achieve higher levels of production, maintenance costs. major longwall markets has its own unique unique Each of the major requirements and challenges. Across the world, collaborative efforts like the one described above are crucial to the development of effective and efficient longwall systems. In Australia, these partnerships have seen the introduction of the first Joy OptiDrive variable speed drive system, helping the mine break increasing our understanding production records while increasing potential of of automated automated longwall operations. operations. of the potential Collaboration with partners in the United States realize exceptional reliability and has helped mines realise productivity of their longwalls.

The benefits of a close partnership between a mine equipment manufacturers (OEMs) (OEMs) and their original equipment are proven, and have demonstrated how OEMs can help support mining companies in achieving worldclass levels of production and productivity in their underground mines without increasing the safety risks to mine personnel. At PV, this partnership enabled us to develop develop aa bespoke bespoke mining mining method to work with PV to meet their complex conditions. It is a relationship that has provided reliable Joy AFC equipment that supports and ultimately ultimately supplies the both PV and their end users, and that keep keep Slovenia’s Slovenia’s lights on. power stations that

This close partnership with PV has led to to the the development development of customized customised features for PV’s operation,

Worcester, UK | T +44 370 252 1000 | W https://mining.Komatsu

PREMOGOVNIK VELENJE (VELENJE COAL MINE)

PHOTO BY ALEKSANDER KAVČNIK

Its self-developed process, known as the Velenje Mining Method, was first introduced in 1947 and has stood the test of time thanks to continued enhancements and innovations through the ensuing years.

Patent-protected, it is described as a “method of winning coal, particularly from thick coal-seams”, with Roser explaining how it has evolved specifically over the past decade.

“The procedure of controlled winning of roof coal by ‘pouring’ over roof supports into the Longwall Chain Conveyor provides very high production capacity with an extremely high level of safety and economic return,” he says. “Current mining results are comparable with the top results in Europe.”

Innovation is also being adopted in numerous other ways. On the business side, the company carries out a total 32 | EME Outlook issue 38

renovation of internal processes thanks to the deployment of an SAP business information system, while it also upgraded the computer infrastructure of its data centre.

In the mine itself, a sophisticated communications network is underpinned by extensive fibre optic and wireless systems – a setup which enables reliable operation of information systems and comprehensive control of safety and technology parameters, making it a reference point among underground coal mines in Europe.

Roser goes on to introduce the company’s Safety and Technological Information System, better known as VTIS. “The backbone of this system is formed by an optical ring in the mine with communication nodes, and is

VELENJE MINING METHOD “THE PROCEDURE OF CONTROLLED WINNING OF ROOF COAL BY ‘POURING’ OVER ROOF SUPPORTS INTO THE LONGWALL CHAIN CONVEYOR PROVIDES VERY HIGH PRODUCTION CAPACITY...”

30 Years of Partnership and Cooperation

Steel Mine Supports Mining Chains and Accessories Bolts and Nuts Yoke Joints, Bolted Joints Bending Machines

Ekon spol. s r.o. Bezova, 1658/1, 147 14 Prague 4, Czech Republic.

T: 00420 44462218 E: ekon@cdipraha.cz www.ekonsro.cz

PREMOGOVNIK VELENJE (VELENJE COAL MINE) extended at worksites by wireless networks,” he explains. “Various sensors, smart devices and equipment are connected to it. This is the basis of the communication infrastructure for the many systems in the mine.”

These can be divided into surface and mine-based programmes.

In the mine, VTIS enables the functioning of numerous systems, including: SCADA systems to control safety and technological parameters; VOIP telephony; automation and remote control of equipment such as coal conveyers, crushers and ventilation stations; real-time tracking of assets via RFID; seismographs for detecting movements in the mine;

and other computer equipment for reporting work.

On the surface, data obtained data from VTIS are stored and processed in various systems, such as: the coal mine control centre; Thingsboard IoT platform for analysis work; dispatch centre for mine transport; and IBM’s Maximo Enterprise Asset Management Software for predictive maintenance of machinery and equipment.

These systems are in turn supplemented by numerous other programmes, among them a web port and app which simplifies communications between employees and company management.

Q: WHAT DOES YOUR SUPPLY CHAIN NETWORK LOOK LIKE, AND HOW ARE THESE RELATIONS MANAGED? JANEZ ROSER: “The coal industry, from extraction to power generation, represents a completely secure value-added industrial supply chain, creating economic wealth and prosperity in the wider region.

There are also a great many indirect jobs supported by coal mining and thermal power plant electricity production.

“In terms of our supply chain, the majority of maintenance services of mining equipment and similar are carried out by affiliated companies which are in 100 percent ownership of Premogovnik Velenje, such as the supply of wood for the mine, which represents one of the strategic supply categories.

“Today, to a certain extent, our engineers, together with our subsidiaries, design and manufacture individual parts and larger segments of more complex mining equipment. In the field of mining equipment, we have noticed in recent years a reduction in the number of producers in Europe.

We have to consider that mining equipment is very specialised, as it must stand up to the safety standards and regulations.

“Around 80 percent of our suppliers are from Slovenia, with the rest coming from abroad. Foreign suppliers are those that manufacture heavy mining equipment and machinery, supporting elements for roadways in coal mines.

There are no such companies in Slovenia. The importance of relations with suppliers is case specific and sometimes subject to business secrecy.

It is worth mentioning that our subsidiary companies will have a big role during the future transition process, due to looking for new opportunities, challenges and new markets.”

34 | EME Outlook issue 38

TEVEL The TEVEL Group was founded 30 years ago. Its experience dates back to the 1960s, when the need for electronic devices in mining began to grow.

Currently, 40 of TEVEL’s employees work alongside over 100 external associates at universities and institutes, developing and streamlining the most demanding mining processes.

We are also involved in various R&D projects focussing on gas detection as an external development partner.

Here, our collaboration with PV, our most important partner in this field, brings synergies – an entrepreneurial mindset in process development and the constant search for improvements serve as a starting point of each product development.

The development and implementation of the CIS (Central Information System) was such a project: it originated from an idea that led to the development of a state-of-the-art coal mine monitoring system, with open possibilities for adding additional modules.

Our motto is ‘Our Quality – Your Safety’, which reflects our mission to provide quality products and solutions that enable safe workplaces for miners in countries including Turkey, Kazakhstan, Russia and former Yugoslavia.

Our references and reputation led us to cooperate with reputable German and Russian partners, ensuring the company’s further development and growth.

All this requires constant investment in resources in the fields of production and quality control. Supported by robotics and controlled processes, we are moving towards Industry 4.0.

To learn more, visit www.tevel.si

www.tevel.si

PREMOGOVNIK VELENJE (VELENJE COAL MINE) And it doesn’t stop here, for Roser plans to go even further down the digital path, moving the organisation to paperless operations and bolstering cybersecurity defences, among other priorities for the coming years.

A CARING COMMUNITY It is a physical, biological threat which has caused most concern in 2020, however.

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has swept its way across Europe after emerging out of China towards the end of 2019. As well as causing very serious health issues and taking many lives, the virus has also created enormous socioeconomic disruption, with almost all industries disrupted.

In Slovenia, Premogovnik Velenje could not afford to close its operations and cease supply of coal to Šoštanj Thermal Power Plant. Any closure would have immediately cut off 30 percent of electricity capacity and

forced the country to plug the gap with costlier imports.

For Roser and the company, employee welfare was and continues to be top of the agenda.

“We organised our work to ensure the smooth implementation of activities, while taking into account all the recommendations of the National Institute for Public Health (NIJZ) and other measures to ensure we contributed to reducing the spread of the virus,” the General Manager explains.

“The safety of employees in the companies of the Premogovnik Velenje Group has always been our number one priority, and this is also the case in emergency situations.

“We are very pleased that we managed to survive the first wave of the epidemic without infection among employees, and for the second wave we are working on various measures on a daily basis to curb the spread of the disease in the companies of the Group.”

Industrija promet d.o.o.

Industrija promet d.o.o. is a family owned private company. The company’s main activities are in distribution and representation.

Ever since 1980, Industrija promet d.o.o. has been an exclusive distributor and representative for SMT Scharf GmbH for Slovenia.

For 40 years, the company has been working alongside its longstanding partner Premogovnik Velenje in order to find the best solutions for transport and logistics.

A good reputation and market success, has led the company Industrija promet d.o.o. to other representations of companies in the mining industry and low construction.

www.industrija-promet.hr

Salus The machine-building company Salus was founded in 1991 and is located in Ravne (Slovenia), where the steel industry has 400 years of tradition.

Our business connections with many experts and companies allow us a high degree of flexibility and capability.

We are involved in the design, development and manufacture of mechanical equipment (turnkey projects), especially for induction hardening and cryogenic technology and for mining equipment.

For the coal mine Velenje we have produced many customised gearboxes, winches, mixers, agitators, banding machines, equipment for safe work in mines etc.

PHOTO BY MIRAN BEŠKOVNIK

36 | EME Outlook issue 38

www.salusdoo.si

SCHARMAN

MINING

Monorails with dieselpowered locomotives are particularly designed for the transport of men and material in branched rail networks with varying gradients. By means of the diesel-powered monorail locomotive even difficult transport problems can be solved)

FEATURES & ADVANTAGES - Self propelled system - Capsulated cooling circuit for exhaust gas cooling - Gradeability up to 25 degrees with friction wheels - Min. at least 12 hours no-break operation by the use of largely dimensioned diesel tank - Safety and simple control system - Safety standard diesel engine suitable for connection to standard lifting devices - Modular assembly

DZK 1800

A Zelinska 5, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia info@industrija-pomet.hr | www.industrija-promet.hr

Got a problem?

You’ve already found the solution!

Custom mechanical engineering

Turnkey solutions for the mining and steel industry SALUS is a machine-building company. We design and produce only on order and we are always striving for more flexible, more advanced, different solutions.

CUSTOMIZED IDUCTION HARDENING MACHINES for large rolls, roll necks, raceways…

CRYOGENIC TREATMENT FREEZERS MINING EQUIPMENT: WINCHES GEAR BOXES BENDING AND STRAIGHTENING MACHINES FOR ARCHES MIXERS FOR PLASTER AGITATORS PARTS AND COMPONENTS

www.salusdoo.si | anja.rek@salusdoo.si

EME Outlook issue 38 | 37

PREMOGOVNIK VELENJE (VELENJE COAL MINE)

MDR MDR has wide expertise in development and production of industrial metal detectors and magnetic separators for different industries in more than 35 countries around the world.

Metal detectors and magnetic separators in heavy industry are used to protect crushers, belts, and other downstream equipment from tramp metal contamination (roof bolts, digger teeth, wear plates, manganese steel, …).

With our custom-made equipment we offer technological solutions to protect the equipment in downstream production process.

T: 00386 70 412 061 E: office@mdr.si www.mdr.si

PHOTO BY MIRAN BEŠKOVNIK

During the first wave, the company adopted an array of measures. These included installation of disinfectants across all sites, procurement of surgical masks, adoption of a new hoist machine usage regime, and use of thermal cameras and thermometers to check employee temperatures.

Premogovnik Velenje also limited entries to the mine, cancelled all business trips and non-essential meetings inside and outside of the firm, suspended group transport schemes and moved to home working where possible. Finally, Roser and his leadership team prepared detailed plans for three potential scenarios – continuation of work as it is currently, a reduction in work and people on site, and a total shutdown of operations.

No stone has been left unturned, and Roser is determined to continue paying this much attention to detail moving forwards.

“Despite the easing of measures at the national level in the summer 38 | EME Outlook issue 38

months, the company followed the NIJZ recommendations without interruption, and kept other necessary preventive measures to control the spread of the coronavirus as much as possible,” he adds.

“Given the deteriorating epidemiological picture in Slovenia and the increase in the number of infected people, the consistent observance of preventive measures has proved to be the right decision and we will continue to follow this in the future.”

This care and consideration for the health and wellbeing of its people also translates into Premogovnik Velenje’s relationship with the wider community.

In particular, the company engages in activities in the realms of sport, culture, social affairs and education, and Roser is all too aware of how important it is for the firm’s legacy to stretch beyond simply providing economic stimulus and employment

to the local area.

“Much importance is laid on the quality of life and work of our employees, cooperation with the local community and care for the broader environment,” he says.

“The significance of the Velenje Coal Mine cannot solely be measured by satisfying the society’s basic need for coal – it should also be measured by direct impacts of the coal mining industry on the environment and by its attitude towards the environment.

“The company is aware that its activity greatly affects the local environment, and that they have taken a lot from the valley. But it has also given a lot.”

Areas which have been excavated are promptly rehabilitated. For example, in the eastern part of the exploration zone, a tourist recreation centre and stadium have been built alongside the construction of hiking, running and cycling routes and installation of 100 benches.

MINING

MDR has wide expertise in development and production of industrial metal detectors and magnetic separators for different industries in more than 35 countries around the world.

With our custom-made equipment we offer technological solutions in order to protect the equipment in production process.

For heavy industry we manufacture: Industrial Metal detectors: • Standard industrial metal detectors for heavy working conditions • special industrial metal detectors that detect metals inside of different types of ore • industrial metal detector that can be installed on the excavator Magnetic separators: • • • • •

Permanent magnetic separators Electromagnetic separators Electromagnetic separators with permanent plate Industrial magnetic drums Industrial magnetic and electromagnetic pulleys

All the equipment can also be manufactured in Ex protection.

T: 00386 70 412 061 E: office@mdr.si www.mdr.si

We have been developing, manufacturing and servicing all types of hydraulic cylinders for over 30 years.

We are most proud of our rich experience and special knowledge in the field of mining, where our hydraulic cylinders must reliably operate in the most demanding conditions.

www.kovinarstvo-rozic.si

Your regional partner for Your regional partner for complete PPE solutions. complete PPE solutions.

TRY US, WE CAN BECOME YOUR RELIABLE PARTNER

zavas.com

Kovinarstvo Rožič d.o.o.

Cesta na Lavo 11B, SI-3310 Žalec T: +386 3 710 31 31 | M: +386 41 442 014 | E: info@kovinarstvo-rozic.si

EME Outlook issue 38 | 39

PREMOGOVNIK VELENJE (VELENJE COAL MINE) These are used by inhabitants of the area and visitors, with Roser also pointing to the Coal Mining Museum of Slovenia which was opened in 1999 in the abandoned pits of the Škale mine, presenting the coal mining tradition of the Šaleška dolina valley in its authentic environment.

“It is comprised of original rooms on the surface, such as dressing rooms, a bathroom, the calling room and sections of the underground part of the mine,” the General Manager describes.

“The museum guide, the multi-vision presentation and scenes with lifesize puppets of coalminers will give you an insight of the work in a coal mine both in the past and present day. The museum houses various exhibitions, theatre plays and birthday parties

PHOTO BY MIRAN BEŠKOVNIK

as well as children’s Bergmandelc workshops for the youngest visitors.

“With its contribution to the development of the Šaleška valley, the Velenje Coal Mine has proven that it has been and will continue to be a key driver of development in the area.”

A FUTURE BEYOND COAL Looking ahead, such development will inevitably involve a diversification away from coal over the next couple of decades.

This is not an unfamiliar exercise, as the company and its subsidiaries have developed numerous other activities through its 145-year history.

Today, it employs people across an array of professions with transferable skills that can be applied to non-coal endeavours, and plans are already

being developed for more marketoriented programmes that will reduce dependence on coal mining.

“Within the Velenje Coal Mine, we are well aware of the necessity of transitioning into a carbon-free society, which is why we have joined the inter-ministerial working group set up by the Ministry of Infrastructure,” Roser adds.

“The Group prepared restructuring measures for coal mining regions, and will coordinate activities linked to the preparation of legal bases for the adoption of a regional strategy for the restructuring of such regions, and the adoption of a national strategy for the phase-out of coal, in line with the principles of a fair transition.

“The Velenje Coal Mine wishes to actively cooperate in further

MINING

PHOTOS BY MIRAN BEŠKOVNIK

development of the Šaleška dolina valley and the entire of Slovenia.

Energy generation is an important issue, and Slovenia needs different energy resources such as hydro, thermal and nuclear to ensure its prosperity in the future.”

But the near term very much involves coal, and Roser is determined to keep enhancing the way Premogovnik Velenje goes about its staple business.

Stabilisation and optimisation of operations form the crux of the General Manager’s immediate plans, the ultimate goal being to facilitate more profitable activities that in turn will enable investment into the longterm plans already described.

Central to this is continuing investment in people.

“At Premogovnik Velenje, the employment and retirement of employees is carried out in accordance with the realisation of business plans,” Roser explains, bringing the conversation to a conclusion. “We pay special attention to the appropriate transfer of knowledge between employees and the mentoring process, as we are aware of the importance of maintaining key jobs and key skills.

“Due to the specifics of our work and the consequent rapid retirement of employees in underground mining jobs (our employees retire on average at the age of 53), the retirement of these employees are appropriately replaced and we follow a system of successions that enables quality career development of individuals.

We are therefore optimistic about the

future, as we believe that the quality of our staff is our key advantage for tomorrow.

“At Velenje Coal Mine, we still strive to preserve traditional values such as comradeship, solidarity, affiliation, which are unfortunately disappearing in the modern society, but are of extreme significance in the coal production process.”

PREMOGOVNIK VELENJE (VELENJE COAL MINE) Tel: +386 (0) 3 899 61 00 info@rlv.si www.rlv.si

EME Outlook issue 38 | 41

REDPATH AUSTRALIA

MAINTAINING MOMENTUM Redpath Australia continues to secure work despite the onset of COVID-19 in 2020, its global standing and reputation as a go-to contractor for large, complex projects providing peace of mind for clients Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Thomas Arnold 42 | APAC Outlook issue 46

MINING

W

hen silver and lead became the first metals to be mined in Australia in the early 1840s, little did the industrialists at Glen Osmond know that they were about to kickstart an industry that would one day be responsible for 70 percent of the nation’s exported goods.

Sat on the outskirts of Adelaide, the

discoveries at Glen Osmond triggered a wave of mining operations in South Australia, the 1850s gold rush quickly placing Australia on the global mining map.

Fast-forward to today, and mining still stands as one of the country’s sturdiest economic backbones.

This financial year, the mining and resources industry is poised to

generate a record $264 billion in exports and represent more than eight percent of the Australian economy.

Staggeringly, since 2005 the sector has invested around $720 billion in the country, accounting for more than 40 percent of total investment over this period, in no small part thanks to sustained activity driven by multinational mining players.

APAC Outlook issue 46 | 43

EPM as one of Australia’s most respected manufacturers can machine a wide range of precision parts using state of the art Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) technology and expertise. EPM has the capability to meticulously engineer virtually any component to the original specification while ensuring the highest standard of quality across a diverse range of ferrous and non-ferrous materials.

Refurbishment and replacement parts for your mobile mining fleet As well as manufacturing new components, EPM can also reproduce replacement parts for your mining and underground drilling and hauling fleet. All manufacturing is carried out in Perth, Western Australia. This way, clients do not have to source costly OEM parts with potential long wait times.

Services include: • Parts manufacture - EPM can guarantee an exact match or exceed the original component specification with the benefit of saving up to 50% in comparison to the OEM counterpart.

• Stock management - common replacement items are kept in stock for a range of Tamrock, Atlas Copco, Caterpillar and Boart Longyear equipment.

• CNC Machining and refurbishment of hydraulic cylinders and rig booms.

Peace of Mind - Reputation for supplying quality components for over 30 years Enhanced Parts Performance - Additional safety, durability & functionality Cost Reduction - Aftermarket parts pricing substantially lower than OEM spares Stock Holding Agreements - Arranged to meet your supply requirements

CAPABILITY DESCRIPTION Large capacity state of the art CNC machines• 5 axis DMU with 10 Pallet loader • 4 and 6 metre CNC lathes +10t • Sliding head swiss small parts machine • 4 axis Kuraki CNC mill 4m sq table x 2.5m high • Multiply CNC lathes and mills to handle most jobs • Faro Arm and CMM measuring capabilities • Solidworks and FeatureCam

1 Baldwin Street KEWDALE WA 6105 Phone: +61 (0)8 9353 3899

Email: sales@epm.net.au www.epm.net.au

REDPATH AUSTRALIA Underground mining services contractor Redpath is one such global operator.

Its operations in Australia are headed up by Managing Director and Queenslander Gavin Ramage, a decade-long servant of the company who was lured to the company because of its stellar reputation around the world.

“Like many mining engineers, I have picked up experience at a number of mining companies through the years, both on the client side and the contractor side,” he says. “I’ve covered pretty much all of it, but my attraction to Redpath was its global standing and scale.

“It is known for taking on significant contracts and, as a mining engineer, I wanted to be a part of a company that tackles large and technically challenging projects.”

“THE SECTOR HAS BEEN BUSY FOR THE PAST FEW YEARS NOW. WHEN COVID-19 ARRIVED IN MARCH, I HAD ONLY JUST RETURNED FROM A TRIP TO GHANA AND, I’LL BE HONEST, I SAT AT MY DESK AND FEARED THE WORST” – GAVIN RAMAGE

46 | APAC Outlook issue 46

ABOUT REDPATH AUSTRALIA The company’s origins date back to 1968 under the names of Eroc, Pearson Bridge, Costain Australia and as part of Peabody Resources.

In September 2008, Redpath Mining acquired Eroc.

Today, Redpath Australia stands as a leading underground mining services contractor with offices in Brisbane and Perth. It prides itself on the provision of safe, economical and innovative solutions carried out by its professional and innovative employees, supported by effective business systems and processes, factors which underpin the company’s sustained success.

In its own words: • We strive to be the safest company to work for in our industry – our commitment is that all our employees return home unharmed every day.

• We establish long-term, stable relationships with our clients, providing a level of service exceeding industry standards, and are viewed as a continuing partner in their underground operations.

• We provide a supportive and rewarding work environment that attracts and retains employees who are valued and developed within our organisation.

• We aim to be the preferred contractor to mine owners and operators that seek to engage a contractor with similar values and is supportive of a strong safety culture.

To date the company has operated in several Asia Pacific markets, including Australia, Fiji, Malaysia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and the Philippines.

Redpath Australia has an uncompromising approach to health and safety

REDPATH AUSTRALIA Ramage, like many Australian students in the 1990s, pursued a degree in engineering before choosing mining as a specialisation in his second year. He follows in the footsteps of his grandfather, a Scot by birth who moved to Australia and worked in the coal mines.

The now-MD actually worked at Eroc prior to the acquisition by Redpath in 2008. He joined Redpath in 2010 following a tenure as an area manager at Newcrest Mining.

Since then, he has worked his way up the managerial ranks, becoming Chief Operations Officer in 2016 before assuming the Managing Director role in February 2017, a position he has held since.

“It has been a rewarding journey in an industry which continues to show promise,” he says. “The sector has been busy for the past few years now.

When COVID-19 arrived in March, I had only just returned from a trip to Ghana and, I’ll be honest, I sat at my desk and feared the worst. I thought there would be absolutely nothing for us to tender in three or four months’ time, with the industry dipping to a worrying low point.

“But it hasn’t worked out that way at all, and I am pleased to say that I was wrong to be so fearful. There are still multiple jobs coming in for tender – even now our estimating team have not stopped working because opportunities are still here in Australia.

MICON-Drilling MICON-Drilling GmbH is a member of the MICON Group, established in 1994 in Nienhagen, Germany.

With more than 25 years of experience, the privately owned company is specialised in design, manufacture, inspection and repair of drill string components, drill bits, sophisticated directional drilling systems and equipment. The main focus is on technical service for drilling applications in the mining, tunnelling, geothermal and HDD industries.

MICON‘s fleet consists of more than 150 directional drilling tools.

MICON manufactures drilling equipment for sale and for its own purposes in two independent facilities using state-of-the art CNC milling, turning and welding machines. Latest technology ensures a high degree of efficiency and quality.

An innovative engineering department and an established network with various european universities enable the continuous development of designs and products.

Conventional and unconventional approaches and implementation of German engineering allow a fast reaction time in designing specific equipment, improving existing and developing new equipment.

Improving the existing and designing new equipment for the Raiseboring industries is a core business and motivation for MICON. The wellknown RVDS drilling service for pilot hole drilling is one of our products which opens new fields of activities for the Raiseboring industries. With more than 170,000 metres drilled on more than 470 projects around the world, MICON-Drilling has proven its reliability and accuracy. On average the RVDS pilot holes deflect less than 0.08 percent on the drilling distance – even under the roughest conditions.

sales@micon-drilling.de

48 | APAC Outlook issue 46

BHA Equipment Diamond bits Core barrels Stabilizers Reamers Crossovers Drill collars Raise bore tools Additional services Coring service Directional drilling Borehole survey Rental stock Engineering Workshop Maintenance Im Nordfeld 14 29336 Nienhagen Germany T +49 5144/49360 E sales@micon-drilling.de

REDPATH AUSTRALIA “A big help in driving this is the government’s stance on the mining sector. It views the industry as essential and as soon as coronavirus arrived, that status was reinforced with mining personnel given the green light to continue working where other businesses were requested to stop.

“Our sector is viewed as one of the central pillars to recovery, and that is keeping the confidence levels high among financial institutions and investors. Infrastructure continues to be built, and projects continue to be operational.

“While I wouldn’t say it is boom time for Australian mining, the work certainly has not stopped.”

It is little surprise that the Australian government is determined to keep mining operations active.

With localised lockdowns concentrated in states such as Victoria and New South Wales, the main mining regions have not been as badly penetrated by the virus, although nothing has been taken for granted regarding employee safety at Redpath across its various projects.

Ramage describes the company’s new health management plan, a programme of initiatives designed to keep workers safe during these unprecedented times.

This involves implementation of a series of controls centred around distancing and hygiene, measures which have disrupted operations but not stalled them – every job Redpath has under its current portfolio is still ongoing.

“OUR SECTOR IS VIEWED AS ONE OF THE CENTRAL PILLARS TO RECOVERY, AND THAT IS KEEPING THE CONFIDENCE LEVELS HIGH AMONG FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AND INVESTORS. INFRASTRUCTURE CONTINUES TO BE BUILT, AND PROJECTS CONTINUE TO BE OPERATIONAL”

Mining Health Solutions (MHS) is a specialist provider of emergency response services to the mining, resources and construction industries. MHS knows that not all sites share the same needs and ensure that the service they provide caters to the specific needs of the client. MHS focuses on providing medical, rescue and training services that fit your site requirements based on your risk profile.

MHS is made up of industry professionals who bring their extensive training, skills, real world experience and passion to everything they do.

MHS SERVICES INCLUDE: Medical support - Highly skilled and qualified paramedics, nurses and doctors are available to look after your onsite injury management needs. MHS staff are supported by a robust clinical governance framework.

Rescue services - MHS have rescue officers available for both short term and long term deployment. Whether it is a single stand by officer or a complete ERT team, MHS staff are handpicked for your project.

Training - MHS conduct onsite emergency response team training, from skills maintenance through to accredited mines rescue courses for new teams. MHS offers hands on and realistic training scenarios, tailored to your work site.

Risk management – MHS specialises in emergency response planning and readiness. MHS can develop a holistic approach to emergency response planning across your business by reviewing and actioning emergency response assets and resources.

With contracts in three states, MHS is well positioned to support your next project.

For a comprehensive overview of MHS’s capabilities and services visit: www.mininghealthsolutions.net.au

Tel: +61 498 724 138 tim@mininghealthsolutions.net.au

50 | APAC Outlook issue 46

24/7 EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Mining Health Solutions are at the forefront of Emergency Response and Risk Minimisation. MHS are focused on providing medical, rescue and training services to the resources and construction sectors. We ensure that the service we provide caters to the specific needs of our clients.

Medical • Fire and Rescue • Training • Wellness • Poisons Licence Administration

The MHS service encompasses more than just the Emergency Response Team responding to incidents. Our staff are proactive in engaging your workforce, building relationships with key stakeholders and ensuring we are utilised to our full potential.

More importantly, you recieve a service that represents value for your investment in MHS.

+61 498 724 138 tim@mininghealthsolutions.net.au www.mininghealthsolutions.net.au

REDPATH AUSTRALIA “The biggest disruption is that people in Australia are restricted in their travel between the states,” Ramage adds.

“Right now, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory have all but closed their borders to people coming out of New South Wales and Victoria, so the freedom for us to freely move around our projects like we once did isn’t there at the moment.

“That has caused disruptions to individuals on certain projects but, thankfully, we’ve been able to keep every job going and have worked through the difficulties presented to us. We’ve accepted that this will likely be the way for the next 12 to 18 months – areas will be locked down and we have to adjust to it as and when those events happen.”

PROJECT PROWESS Mine construction projects are diverse, and several examples highlight

Redpath’s credentials as a go-to for complex, large-scale underground mining services.

For instance, in 2018 the company took on what was its largest ever contract in terms of scope at Glencore’s Lady Loretta mine in Queensland.

A six-year project, it is a high grade lead-zinc orebody mined, crushed and loaded onto road trains by Redpath, is transported 150 kilometres southeast to Glencore’s processing plant at Mount Isa. And technology is also taking centre stage. Indeed, the Australian mining industry is described by Tania Constable, CEO of the Minerals Council of Australia, as having the unique characteristic of being both the nation’s oldest export industry as well as its most modern one, not least because of the embracement of new solutions.

Redpath embodies this statement at Lady Loretta.

Total Oil Australia Unearthing greater opportunities with Total Total is a broad energy Group, which produces and markets fuels, natural gas and low-carbon electricity. Our 100,000 employees are committed to better energy that is safer, more affordable, cleaner and accessible to as many people as possible. Active in more than 130 countries, our ambition is to become the responsible energy player.

Total is determined to provide the best mining offer of products and services designed to assist customers reduce total cost of ownership. The company supports this ambition by providing services that complement its outstanding lubricant products, through reliable technical support, engineering and facilities, and strong key account management.

www.totaloil.com.au

G3 Engineering G3 Engineering is a one-stop shop for engineering and on-site solutions.

Specialising in custom one-offs to multiples and innovative manufacturing.

At our engineering facility, we are excited to be continually advancing with technology to provide precise and efficient engineering solutions to the market through the use of: • 3D scanning & drafting • Rapid prototyping & 3D printing • cutting-edge equipment • highly skilled labour Our on-site services include Installation & Maintenance.

G3 are extremely proud of the relationships established with our clients, including respected providers across a number of industries.

www.g3engineering.com.au

52 | APAC Outlook issue 46

MINING

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APAC Outlook issue 46 | 53

REDPATH AUSTRALIA

Brunner & Lay Brunner & Lay products are manufactured completely in Springdale Arkansas, USA, and designed to deliver competitive cost per metre outcomes for the end user.

Products are precision machined from high quality steel, then heat treated to insure strength and durability.

The extensive Brunner & Lay line includes – demolition tools for hydraulic hammers, shanks, couplings, carburised drill steel, hi-frequency hardened drill steel, and Rok-Bits™, available with standard, conical, ballistic, or parabolic inserts.

In-field specialists are available to help you with technical support.

Contact us at (03) 5336-3233

www.brunnerlay.com

“WE ARE PARTNERING WITH RCT TO DELIVER SEMI-AUTONOMOUS SOLUTIONS TO THE PROJECT. THIS INVOLVES USING RCT’S CONTROLMASTER GUIDANCE AUTOMATION ON THREE SANDVIK LOADERS TO OPERATE IN THE NARROW-VEIN UNDERGROUND MINE” “This project involves operating the entire mine with our whole skillset, which at various stages involves sophisticated technology,” Ramage says. “We have introduced analytical tools and automated loaders where operators can control them from the surface.”

A newer project at Rothsay, albeit smaller, also showcases the company’s innovative spirit.

Nestled in Western Australia’s Yalgoo Goldfield, the mine is owned

by Silver Lake Resources, which appointed Redpath Australia as its underground mining contractor in April this year, further proof that the industry is functioning close to normal during the age of COVID-19.

54 | APAC Outlook issue 46

The deflector gold-copper mine is around 85 kilometres from Rothsay and 300 kilometres from Perth, and produced its first gold in May 2016.

Redpath is responsible for the next four years of development production activities within the mine and once more technology is heavily involved.

“We are partnering with RCT to deliver semi-autonomous solutions to the project,” Ramage says. “This involves using RCT’s ControlMaster Guidance Automation on three Sandvik loaders to operate in the narrow-vein underground mine.

“We will be able to have a single machine operator manage the loader fleet from either the surface or secure work zones inside the mine.

Penske Australia Through the provision of world-leading Allison Series 6000 transmissions and OM Series 900 engines, Penske Australia proudly supports Redpath Australia’s operations across underground mining sites nationally.

With Allison transmissions installed in mining dump trucks, and OM engines powering hard rock mining equipment, the effective operation of these products is crucial to Redpath’s productivity.

Penske’s branch network and field service teams back Redpath with tailored service and parts support, working closely with Redpath ensuring engines and transmissions are maintained to industry-leading standards with premium service and genuine parts delivering optimal performance of Redpath’s critical assets.

www.penske.com.au

MINING

Brunner & Lay Mining & Construction Tools American made and Family owned since 1882

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Penske Australia Penske Australia proudly supports Redpath Australia’s operations across underground mining sites nationally.

Penske’s extensive branch network and field service teams back Redpath with tailored service and parts support, working closely with Redpath ensuring engines and transmissions are maintained to industry‐leading standards with premium service and genuine parts delivering optimal performance of Redpath’s critical assets.

penske.com.au

APAC Outlook issue 46 | 55

REDPATH AUSTRALIA

KEY SERVICES BREAKDOWN Redpath Australia is able to offer a range of services throughout the country and wider Asia Pacific region. These include: TRADITIONAL UNDERGROUND METALLIFEROUS SERVICES: • Development • Production • Specialised ground support (including mechanised cabolting and fibrecreting) VERTICAL DEVELOPMENTS: • Raiseboring • Shaft construction • Shaft equipping • Shaft rehabilitation CIVIL SERVICES: • Transfer tunnels • Roadway tunnels • Rail tunnels COAL SERVICES: • Drift construction • Underground roadway development • Conveyor installation and removal • Conveyor maintenance • Ventilation control device installation • Installation of services • Roadway construction and maintenance, including concreting • Installation of secondary support • Provision of outbye services

“Automation is an important innovation component of our business as it allows productivity to remain consistent across shift change and blasting times. The adoption of emerging technology such as this reinforces our commitment towards the implementation of our technology roadmap over the next three years.”

LOOKING AHEAD Crucial to this implementation will be the continued support of agile, innovative partners.

Ramage is quick to acknowledge this, explaining how the success of Redpath relies on a series of relationships with peers across the entire supply chain.

“Our suppliers are incredibly important to us, and we understand the value in building these partnerships,” he adds. “Implementing new solutions is always challenging, and working together is the only way we can achieve positive results.

Mixers Australia We have extensive experience in supplying specialty jobs for various customers such as hydraulic drive swing augers, solar powered eyewash, freestanding diesel drive mixers and more.

Our director, Luke Forbes, is a qualified heavy diesel mechanic and through his 40 years of experience has developed extensive knowledge in the field of mechanics and hydraulics as well as the manufacturing of transit mixers and replacement barrels. The experience and knowledge that Luke holds combined with that of all our staff here at Mixers Australia, ensures we bring you the right advice and products to suit your needs.

We offer both in house and onsite servicing, inspections and repairs with the added bonus of having an inspection/weigh schedule set up to suit the customers’ requirements whether it be quarterly, six-monthly or annually.

www.mixersaustralia.com

Northside Sandblasting & Painting Our aim is to provide quality commercial and industrial sandblasting and painting services to our customers, on time and on budget.

We can handle a range of different sized jobs. Our blast booth is 14m long x 4m wide x 4m high and we have three different sized paint booths ranging from 8m long x 3m wide x 3.5m high to 15m long x 5m wide x 4m high. Some of our past jobs include; underground machines, shipping containers, concrete agitators, gantries and lighthouse hand rails and platforms.

Northside Sandblasting & Painting is proudly Australian owned and operated. We look forward to assisting you with all your asset protection needs. office@northsidesandblasting.com.au

56 | APAC Outlook issue 46

MINING

Mixers Australia is the largest 100% Australian owned transit mixer manufacturing business in Australia. We have over 40 years’ experience in the manufacture of cement mixers and cement trucks for both mining and building industries in Australia and abroad.

We stock a range of spare parts not just for our cement mixers but also the specialty jobs we build and if we don’t have it in stock we will endeavour to source it as quick as possible for our customers.

CJD EQUIPMENT YOUR PARTNERS IN EXPERIENCE PROUDLY SUPPORTING

Supplying Volvo Construction Equipment to Australian markets for almost three decades, CJD Equipment has built a reputation as one of the most successful privately owned equipment distributors in Australia.

Contact us on 07 3267 0800 to see how we can help you today.

BIG ENOUGH TO TRUST SMALL ENOUGH TO CARE www.cjd.com.au | 1300 139 804 | enquiries@cjd.com.au Facebook.com/cjdequipment

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Sunstate Fasteners

Supplier of All Fasteners and Fixings Only 10 minutes north of the Gateway Bridge and easily accessible from the Gateway Motorway, Northside Sandblasting and Painting has been operating for over 35 years.

Our business hours: Monday to Thursday - 7:00am till 3:45pm Friday - 7:00am till 12 noon CONTACT US office@northsidesandblasting.com.au or 0732670800 to discuss your requirements.

With over 80 Years of Experience in the Industry, Sunstate Fasteners is your chosen Supplier for all your Fasteners and Fixings.

Plus, Authorised Distributor of IRONCLAD KONG GLOVES

• Bolts • Nuts • Washers • Screws • Rivets • Threaded Rod • Masonry Anchors 12 Container Street, Tingalpa, QLD 4173, Australia T +61 7 3890 5599 E sales@sunstatefasteners.com.au www.sunstatefasteners.com.au

APAC Outlook issue 46 | 57

REDPATH AUSTRALIA

A BRIEF HISTORY

Mining in Australia Minerals began to be produced in Australia in large quantities from the early days of European settlement at Sydney Cove in the late 1700s.

The first metal mined was lead at Glen Osmond, in South Australia, in 1841. At the time, agricultural products were the country’s main exports, but metals such as lead and copper quickly became more lucrative commodities to sell abroad.

It wasn’t long before the goldrushes of the 1850s catapulted Australia onto the global mining stage – by this time it was producing around 40 percent of the world’s supply of gold.

In the 1870s, the country became an important producer of tin following a discovery at Mount Bischoff in Tasmania, with several of the great mines being established in the likes of Mount Morgan, Broken Hill and Kalgoorlie, to name but a few.

The early 20th century saw production volumes decline, the 1960s seeing a ramping up of exploration activities and discovery of various ‘new’ metals. Discoveries such as bauxite (the source of aluminium), nickel, tungsten, rutile (the source of titanium), uranium, oil and natural gas followed a resurgence of interest in Australia’s mineral resources.

Today, Australia remains one of the world’s leading mineral resources nations.

58 | APAC Outlook issue 46

“We’re at a stage now where we’re about to go back out to market and begin tendering on some of these partnerships and, being a contractor, we’re always looking for that edge that will help us boost our productivity and provide a superior service to mine owners.”

As well as successful delivery of projects, Redpath’s credentials can also be displayed through a series of awards and recognition obtained over the years.

In 2019, for example, it was shortlisted as a finalist in the National Safety Awards of Excellence for the SIBS Secondary Activation Innovation mechanism. Another safety related recognition came in 2017 when the company received the Queensland Mining Industry Innovation Award for the Safe Stop Anti Door Jam Unit.

At the 2015 Queensland Mining Health & Safety Conference, Redpath was a finalist in the Innovation Award category for its Agitator Sonar

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Discharging System, while in the same year the firm received a Highly Commended Award for the ‘Brighter Days’ Mental Health Initiative at the Queensland Mining Industry Health Program Awards.

The fact that many of these awards fall into the category of health and safety underlines Redpath’s dedication to the welfare of its employees.

It operates with the mantra that ‘employees are able to keep SAFETY FIRST, LAST, AND ALWAYS top of mind’, a statement which stands as true today as it did when the company was founded well over half a century ago. This revolves around central concepts, including a five-point safety system, internal responsibility systema and continuous dialogue between employees and management. Training is also critical to this end.

Such awards also highlight the company’s commitment to innovation.

Here, internal collaboration is hugely

important, the MD pointing to current innovations within the global Redpath group which are being rolled out across its divisions.

Internal collaboration is equally important, the MD pointing to innovations within the global Redpath group which are being rolled out across its divisions.

These include new HR and maintenance systems, the premise being to standardise quality and processes across the board, no matter what part of the world Redpath is operating in.

In terms of the prospects for the Australian business, Ramage remains in a confident mood about what the future has in store. Yes, COVID-19 will not be disappearing anytime soon, but the industry remains in relatively good health despite the disruption caused.

Looking ahead, he concludes: “In terms of COVID-19 and what that throws at us, we’re always looking to improve our safety procedures and

ensure our employees are as safe as possible.

“This will help ensure we grow our business in Australia in a controlled and manageable way that doesn’t result in any standards dropping. I would like to achieve a revenue growth of around 50 percent over the next couple of years and, given the activity in the industry at the moment, this is certainly attainable.

“The market is healthy right now, and the opportunities will continue to emerge. There will be competition for those opportunities, but Redpath is strongly placed to win our share.”

REDPATH AUSTRALIA Tel: +61 7 3868 5000 info.australia@redpathmining.com.au www. redpathmining.com

APAC Outlook issue 46 | 59

M O TA - E N G I L

A F R I C A

The African Answer to African Challenges Mota-Engil Africa has been delivering crucial infrastructure and services across a range of sectors since it began operations in Angola more than 70 years ago Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Donovan Smith

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M I N I N G

&

R E S O U R C E S

A

great deal of hope for Africa’s sustainable future hangs on the acceleration of infrastructure development.

Every year around 12 million young people join the continent’s labour force, a figure which is only expected to rise as populations continue to grow. Indeed, if the latest United Nations medium scenario projections are proven correct, by 2050 the current populace will have doubled to 2.5 billion.

If these millions of new workingage citizens are to be employed, Africa must industrialise.

History has proven that a healthy stock of high-quality infrastructure in power, water, and transport is a key facilitating factor of industrialisation, creating an environment that enables organisations to thrive in their respective industries.

The positive impact of infrastructure on economic growth and inclusive social development has been well documented by numerous social science disciplines and bodies like the African Development Bank (AfDB). High-quality infrastructure is essential for Africa to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN, Agenda 2063 of the African Union, and AfDB’s own High Five Goals.

The latter estimates that the region’s infrastructure needs amount to somewhere in the region of $130-170 billion a year, markedly higher than the annual $93 billion published by Agence Française de Développement and the World Bank.

However, this challenge also presents enormous opportunity, and there is optimism in the air from companies operating on the frontline of infrastructure development across the continent.

“For many Africa is the continent of the future, but it has been our present for 72 years,” says Manuel António Mota, CEO of Mota-Engil Africa.

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“We are strong believers in the region and in its continuous development, and we are very confident about some of the recent steps taken in many African countries which will contribute to wider economic development.”

This sentiment is backed up by the AfDB, which points to examples from Ethiopia, Mauritius and Rwanda as models that other African nations can follow.

In its 2018 African Economic Outlook report it says: “By attracting foreign investment and firms, even the poorest African countries can improve their trade logistics, increase the knowledge and skills of local entrepreneurs, gain the confidence of international buyers, and gradually make local firms competitive.”

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For many Africa is the continent of the future, but it has been our present for 72 years” Serving Sub-Saharan industry

Mota-Engil Africa is one of the largest native-born enterprises that works at the forefront of infrastructure development in the Sub-Sahara region.

It has presence or interest in 16 different countries and is served by a 12,600-strong, with expertise spanning engineering and construction, waste management, mining, water and energy specialisms, among others.

Mota elaborates: “We operate in

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engineering and construction across the entire spectrum of activities, with a big focus on all kinds of public and private infrastructure and buildings.

“We are also very active as a mining contractor, and in construction works for mining companies. We have a strong presence across the continent on waste collection and treatment, where we operate in five countries already, with a big focus in Angola, Ivory Coast and Mozambique.”

Mining side by side with Mota-Engil Africa Epiroc, through delivering on four core principles of reliability, proximity, sustainability and expertise, continues to be a partner of choice for miners

Epiroc – a combination of Greek and Latin meaning ‘at rock’.

Now a separate entity from Atlas Copco, Epiroc’s name reflects the Company in action – a firm focused on mining, rock excavation and natural resources with proximity to customers, and one built on strong partnerships.

These partnerships are developed with customers in more than 150 countries around the world, served by 12,000 employees and 23 production facilities which combine to generate approximately SEK 30 billion ($3.31 billion) in annual revenue.

From civil engineering, urban development and quarrying work to well drilling, deconstruction and recycling, Epiroc’s expertise are wide-reaching and backed up by an extensive service offering to ensure maximum uptime.

In Africa, mining very much represents the Company’s staple industry.

In the underground sphere, Epiroc can cater to a full suite of requirements, from mechanical rock excavation, loading and haulage, and ventilation systems to drill rigs, hydraulic drum cutter machinery and ground support equipment.

On the surface, the Company provisions equipment and applications covering blasthole drill rigs and rock drilling, amongst others, while exploration machinery includes surface core drill rigs, reverse circulation drill rigs and rock drilling tools.

FOUR PRINCIPLES = FIRST CHOICE By basing its offering on four central pillars, Epiroc aims to be and remain the first-choice partner for its customers. These pillars are: •

Reliability – sticking to promises

•

Proximity – access to parts, services and support

•

Sustainability – environmentally, socially and ethically responsible practices

•

Expertise – backed by more than 145 years of history

A partner of choice Such expertise has led Epiroc to execute many significant and successful partnerships with mining clients, including Mota-Engil Africa.

Among the work and services provided for the firm are supply of surface drill rigs, spare parts

Commenting on the partnership with Epiroc, he said: “More than a supplier of equipment and services, Epiroc has been a technological partner of Mota-Engil when studying the best equipment solutions for each operation and region of Africa, proposing the one that best suits the work to be done.

“The relationship of trust that has established itself over several decades is increasingly strengthened and each new mining or infrastructure challenge for Mota-Engil Africa is also a challenge for Epiroc.

and consumables. Epiroc is also in the process of providing a basic level of automation for drilling machines alongside a surface manager data reporting tool.

Fernando Pedrinho Martins, Regional Business Manager Drilling Solutions (Europe, Middle East and Africa), provides some further insight on the collaboration and why it has been so successful to date.

“The partnership has developed over a very long time on different sectors, such as quarrying, civil construction, road construction, geotechnical, maritime works, tunnelling and others.

“On mining, in particular, the relationship started with Mota-Engil África, first with exploration and lately moving into contracting. Epiroc supplied the drills being used in different projects like Moatize coal mine in Mozambique, and Siguiri gold mine in Guinea.

“The proximity of the relationship allows us to listen to the customer and search for the best solutions. Our site presence and being a one-stop shop covering machines, drilling consumables, parts and service on a global scale, do also give a reassuring support to Mota-Engil Africa.”

These reflections are backed up António Vieira, Mota-Engil Africa’s Head of Mining Services.

“We operate in remote environments and with logistical difficulties. Finding mobilisation solutions that do not compromise the performance of the contract, establishing training plans and monitoring the evolution of the work, allowing for anticipation of problems, has been an added value for the strengthening of this partnership work.”

Forward-thinking Moving forwards, as Martins eluded to, Epiroc will look to implement further cutting-edge solutions into Mota-Engil Africa’s mining operations.

“I want to put in place the first steps on aspects like fleet management and mine digitalisation, which we can do thanks to our recent acquisition of ASI Mining,” he comments.

Acquiring expertise such as this will allow the Company to move hand in hand with Mota-Engil Africa and its projected expansion over the coming years, summarised by its key motto.

It reads: “United. Inspired. Performance united us, innovation inspires us, and commitment drives us to keep moving forward. Count on Epiroc to deliver the solutions you need to succeed today and the technology to lead tomorrow.”

Call +49 201 21770 socialmedia@epiroc.com

www.epiroc.com

WE ARE CONNECTED...

... Supporting our PARTNERS ... Contributing to DEVELOPMENT

... Developing Worldclass ENERGY SOLUTIONS

... Supporting

YOUR MARINE FLEET

... Monitoring and Protecting YOUR EQUIPMENT

... Connect with us stet.pt

www.stet.pt

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A F R I C A

This presence culminates in a company which last year turned over $970 million and is currently sat on an order book worth $2.94 billion. MotaEngil Africa is growing steadily, shown by the fact that 2017’s revenue was 21 percent (or $171.54 million) higher than 2016’s.

“We are very active on concessions, and other investments, that can or will generate construction where we invest our own equity, including airports, roads, ports, energy, real estate developments, and more,” adds Mota. “We currently have some publicprivate partnership concessions under construction, while one is already under exploration.”

In terms of geographical footprint, Mota-Engil Africa is spread over 16 countries from east to south to west in the Sub-Sahara region.

“We have had a solid presence in Angola since the beginning, and here we have a strong logistical base where we are able to provide support to our African operations,” Mota explains.

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We have had a solid presence in Angola since the beginning, and here we have a strong logistical base where we are able to provide support to our African operations” “We are also well-established across Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania and Zambia, with further operations in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya.

“On the West African side, an area where we began operating more recently, we have a presence in the Ivory Coast, Guine Conacry, Cameroon, and most recently we have opened up an office in Nigeria. For the future, we are also tendering in Senegal and Ghana, and seek to potentially establish permanent bases, though if

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it is the right project we will act across the whole continent.”

Mota’s personal involvement stretches back a long way. Being a member of the founding family, he has been close to the organisation from a young age, formally joining in 2009 after completing his studies.

He started working in Angola in 2009, and in 2012 was appointed as a board member of Mota-Engil Angola. Mota then became CEO of Mota-Engil Central Europe in June 2013 before moving to his current role in February 2016.

S

TET is the Caterpillar Dealer for both Portugal and Cabo Verde, and has represented Caterpillar in these regions for more than 57 years.

STET forms part of the Italian based Tesa Group of Companies, a large corporation that was established over 85 years ago. The Tesa Group employs more than 2,800 employees in Europe, operating as Caterpillar dealers and also running a number of complementary businesses across multiple territories, providing equipment management, rental and integrated solutions development to our customers who operate around the globe.

For the past 500 years Portugal as a country has walked together with all Portuguese speaking territories across the world.

Portuguese see it as their legacy and their responsibility to continue working together with these Portuguese speaking territories, maintaining the connection and contributing to the building of a better future for all Portuguese speaking people around the globe. Further, STET, as a traditional Portuguese company, has a rich history of supporting its customers in developing their businesses in Africa, something it has been doing by serving their needs for more than 40 years. We are thankful to Africa – it is in our blood, and is part of our heritage as it has helped us learn and grow as individuals and as a group.

and our customers – an opportunity which will further the development of the African continent by ensuring that Africa grows its connectivity with the rest of the world.

We can leverage the expertise we have accumulated over our years of supporting our customers in Africa, mixed with the expertise we have from representing the Caterpillar brand for so many years. We can pass on this capability, knowledge and experience to those who need it. Africa is a continent which has a number of specific needs. We can support these needs, delivering solutions and operational excellence through our people.

Our people are connected people, people with technical expertise, people who understand the difficulties and concerns faced by our customers and the African people. STET has already developed the capability and remains ready and able to provide the support needed.

If we leverage the lessons we have learned, we can add value. Our history has always been closely connected with Africa and we see ourselves as part of the development of Africa…

We are connected… Connect with us…

Our participation in this magazine is our renewed commitment to continuing to play a part in the development of Africa by building on and sharing what we’ve learned throughout these 40 years of collaboration.

The world is more connected and more global than ever and this brings a unique opportunity for collaboration between STET

T +351 931105920 E apoioaclientes@stet.pt

www.stet.pt

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STEERING MOTA-ENGIL AFRICA IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION Manuel Mota is joined by a group of highly experience executives and industry experts who form the Company’s leadership.

Board of Directors • Gonçalo Moura Martins, Chairman. With Mota-Engil since 1990.

• Manuel António Mota, Chief Executive Officer.

• José Carlos Nogueira, Chief Financial Officer.

• David Hobley, Senior Independent Non-Executive Director. Chartered accountant, previously MD at SG Warburg and Deutsche Bank.

• Francisco Seixas da Costa, Independent Non-Executive Director.

Former Portuguese diplomat and politician.

Executive Directors (in addition to Manuel Mota) • José Carlos Nogueira, Chief Financial Officer.

• Francisco Franca, Executive Director. Joined in 1998, CEO of Angola operations.

• Anibal Leite, Executive Director. Joined in 1983. Civil engineer of more than 20 years.

• Carlos Pascoal, Executive Director. Civil engineer of more than 20 years.

• Santos Pato, Executive Director. Civil engineer of more than 20 years.

ITM

I

TM is a renowned global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of undercarriage components and solutions.

Comprising a global workforce of 1,300 employees spanning branches all the over the world, ITM’s adept team are able to offer end-to-end assistance to ITM’s customers whenever it is requested.

Through many years of expansive R&D and collaboration with leading OEMs, ITM has played a crucial role in facilitating progression and innovation within the industry, offering solutions that maximise productive potential.

In Africa, ITM leverages its partnerships with major local distributors, but in today’s challenging markets, ITM also recognises that close collaboration with key customers must be a primary consideration that, in turn, enables business growth within the African market.

One such key customer is Mota-Engil – a firm that ITM has recently supplied with completely new undercarriage solutions for two of its key mining excavators operating in Mozambique.

Luanda International Airport, Mota-Engil Africa’s first ever project

An Angolan stalwart

Angola is where the entire Mota-Engil Group’s roots can be traced back to.

In 1946, Mota & Cia as it was then known was founded by Manuel António da Mota in Portugal, with operations exclusively in Angola until 1975 when the firm expanded into Namibia and South Africa.

During this early period the Company worked on a number of important projects, most notably the completion of Luanda International Airport which was handed over in 1952.

Through the 1980s and 90s Mota & Cia opened up branches in Gabon, Swaziland (renamed Eswatini in 2018),

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Malawi, Mozambique, Ghana and Tunisia. “In the 90’s we also started our expansion into other business areas such as mining, road and bridge concessions, waste management, water management, port concessions, and energy,” Mota adds.

The turn of the millennium marked a vital point in the organisation’s development, the Mota family deciding to merge Mota & Cia with Engil, creating the Group that exists today.

This prompted further expansion across the African continent, with the markets of Benin, Chad and São Tomé and Príncipe having been entered by 2006.

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“I spend a lot of time travelling to visit our dealers and key end users to find out more about the challenges facing their operations. The insights that I gain from these visits ensures that we at ITM are constantly redefining our services and products to make them the best they can be,” says Erik Stols, Sales Director, African Mining at ITM. “At ITM, we would like our key end users to see us as a one stop solution for all their undercarriage needs.”

www.group-itm.com

VISIBLY POWERFUL. Expertise, know-how, innovation capacity. In one word: ITM We proudly stand behind our products. That’s the difference! Our dedicated team of Product Support Specialists can recommend the best undercarriage solution for a particular application in order to enhance and optimize the performance of the product you chose. Furthermore, it will check the product is being used correctly and give advice to ensure maximum productivity, longer life and lower maintenance costs.

GROUP-ITM.COM

ENGINEERED FOR SUCCESS

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LOMBARD INSURANCE

L

ombard Insurance Company Limited (Lombard), has been a proud partner to Mota-Engil Africa (MEA) over the past five years, by providing construction and related guarantees to their employers throughout the African continent.

By virtue of our extensive experience and vast African partner network, we have issued guarantees, on behalf of, MEA in 11 African countries, including difficult to access markets such as Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, and Cameroon.

Lombard has been the leading provider of construction and related guarantees in Sub-Saharan Africa over the last 30 years. From our base in South Africa we are able to leverage our network of partner-insurers thereby providing our clients with workable solutions on the continent.

Our flexible approach to guarantee wordings, strong client relationships, cost-effective guarantee solutions and exceptional turnaround times and service make us the preferred provider to contractors and employers alike.

Mota-Engil Africa formally emerged from a restructuring in 2012 which saw the Group organise itself into geographic business units. Further expansion came shortly with the entry into Zimbabwe, Zambia and Uganda being quickly followed by Rwanda in 2015.

Current CEO Mota joined a year later, and today the entire Mota-Engil Group employs more than 30,000 people across 30-plus countries.

Our product offering includes construction-related guarantees such as Advance Payment, Performance and Retention Guarantees issued to employers as well as temporary import guarantees (customs bonds). Our product offering and cost structure enable our clients to reduce guarantee costs and free up cash flow, allowing them better opportunities to accelerate their business growth.

Our reinsurance capacity and execution skills provide us with the ability to support our clients, from small construction to mega-build projects.

Mining for Africa

Of these newer business areas Mota eludes to, mining has become something of a company staple. Asked to cite a project that instils a particular sense of pride, he points towards the Company’s ongoing involvement with Brazilian mining giant Vale in Mozambique. ` The work involves the execution of mining services that include drilling,

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For more information contact:

Manuel Mota, CEO, Mota-Engil Africa

Eben van der Walt T +27 11 551 0637 F +27 86 5015119 C +27 83 300-2246 E ebenvdw@lombardins.com

www.lombardins.com

PROVIDING CONSTRUCTION GUARANTEES TO OUR INTERNATIONAL CLIENTS THROUGHOUT AFRICA

Through our extensive Insurer Partner Network, we can provide Construction Guarantees in more than 20 SubSaharan African countries.

Construction Guarantee Products Include: • • • • • • •

Performance Guarantees Bid Bonds/Tender Bonds Advance Payment Guarantees Retention Guarantees Materials On-/Off Site Guarantees Energy Guarantees Temporary Import/Export Permits (Customs Bonds)

Benefits of a Lombard Facility: • • • • • •

Flexible Approach to Guarantee Wordings Strong Client Relationships Direct Access to Decision Makers Solutions Driven Approach to Client Issues Exceptional Turnaround Times on Issue of Bonds Large Insurance Partner Network throughout Africa

For more information please contact: Eben van der Walt Tel +27 11 551 0637 • Cell +27 83 300 2246 Email ebenvdw@lombardins.com

www.lombardins.com Lombard Insurance Company Limited is a licensed Insurer & Authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP 1596)

Lombard Partnership Network

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MOTORCARE NISSAN MOTORCARE Nissan Mozambique Lda Fleet managers face a number of inescapable challenges that have a huge impact on the bottom line and businesses require robust vehicles with proven reliability, along with progressive support and servicing to remain efficient.

Understanding the unique fleet requirements for the local climate and road infrastructure, MOTORCARE Mozambique Lda has been offering automotive B2B services in Mozambique since 1996 and our national footprint extends to Maputo, Beira, Nampula, Pemba and Moatize. As an authorised premium brand distributer, we provide the best automotive solutions, parts and accessories, as well as access to onestop maintenance and repair services, combined with a full spectrum of fleet management solutions.

Nacala Rail Corridor

provision of explosives, and load and transport of sterile and coal at Moatize, in the west of the country.

The mine is Vale’s single-largest investment in coal, the success of which also being dependent on two railroads that connects Moatize to the sea.

Mota-Engil Africa played an integral part in the development of the Nacala Corridor between 2012 and 2014, working on two geographically demanding sections of the 900-kilometre line in Malawi. One section involved the construction and renovation of an existing 100-kilometre stretch of railroad, while the second project entailed the building of a new 145-kilometre line between Kachaso on the Malawi-Mozambique border and Nkaya Junction in the district of Balaka, Malawi.

Mota-Engil Africa also completed rehabilitation and expansion work

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Our workshops carry the international quality recognition status of fully integrated ISO certification ISO9001, ISO14001 and OHSAS18001. This cements our commitment to meet customers’ highest service expectations, with consciousness of operational impact on the environment, as well as health and safety practices.

MOTORCARE Nissan’s comprehensive range of commercial LCV vehicles is fit for purpose and can rise to meet any challenge. As a key business partner to Mota-Engil Africa, MOTORCARE supports its operations by supplementing and servicing its fleet – most notably with the Nissan NP300 HARDBODY, a true thoroughbred workhorse, and the durable Nissan CIVILIAN bus.

If your business needs to perform in all conditions, MOTORCARE Nissan Mozambique has got you covered on the road.

Rua Kanwalanga no 141, Moçambique, Maputo T +258 21350800 E info@mz.motorcare.com

www.motorcare.co.mz

NISSAN

NP300 HARDBODY THE SMARTEST INVESTMENT YOU WILL EVER MAKE!

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

3 YEAR OR 100 000KM WARRANTY

CUSTOMER SUPPORT

WORLD-CLASS SERVICE

We promise to make your Nissan experience one to cherish, from your delivery day and everyday after, our commitment is to deliver a service experience you can trust – and believe in.

Our brand ethos is communicated through the service we deliver.

Through out our branches we ensure we offer quality customer engagement everytime a customer enters our ISO certified facilities.

CUSTOMER ASSURANCE

MOTORCARE Nissan remains committed to providing an extensive and world-class automotive experience to customers in Mozambique with on-going focus on Sales and Aftersales service. Every customer is assured of consistent and innovative sales and service solutions.

Facilities are state of the art and we operate with the latest technology combined with quality workmanship.

MOTORCARE NISSAN MAPUTO

Rua Kanwalanga nº 141 +258 21 35 08 00

BEIRA

Av. Samora Machel nº 3024 +258 23 32 65 03

info@mz.motorcare.com

MOATIZE

As long as your car is under our warranty, we’ll always have you covered if anything goes wrong. For the first 3 years or 100 000km, whichever comes first.

Our workshops carry the international quality recognition status of fully integrated ISO certification ISO9001, ISO14001 and OHSAS 18001.

This cements our commitment to meet customers’ highest service expectations, with consciousness of operational impact on the environment, as well as health and safety practices.

GENUINE NISSAN PARTS

We deliver the highest care for your Nissan by fitting only Nissan Genuine Parts.

www.nissan.co.mz

E.N.7 Unidade 25 de Setembro, Chithatha Moatize, Tete +258 25 24 22 20

nissanmocambique

NAMPULA

Rua da Franca, Parcela 3, Bairro da Carrupeia +258 26 21 72 51 5

connect on

PEMBA

E.N.106 Bairro do Alto Giongone +258 27 22 07 71

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TRANSITEX

T

ransitex is the logistics operator of the Yilport Group, with a worldwide network of offices across Europe, Africa, Latin America and Asia.

We are experts in the transport of perishables, such as general foodstuffs, and also handle other types of commodities like stone, wines, spirits and construction materials.

Around the world, and particularly in Africa, we execute all kinds of logistical operations regarding project cargoes and machinery, having worked on some of the biggest engineering projects across the continent. In the last four years, our business volume in Africa has increased 97.03 percent, transporting more than 60,000 TEUs annually just by sea freight.

We connect Southern African countries with our own fleet of trucks and warehouses located throughout the region’s main inland corridors, connecting the main maritime ports to the interior of the continent.

on the Sena Railroad in 2016. Now in operation, this 575-kilometre trainline connects Moatize to the Port of Beira in the south of Mozambique and is able to transport six million tonnes of coal a year.

“Our involvement on the Nacala Corridor and on the coal mines with Vale makes us all at Mota-Engil very proud,” Mota reveals.

“We started on the project from a very early stage and were able to showcase our capacities to be a key partner on the mining side and on the infrastructure side, both in terms of construction and maintenance.

“Naturally this is a project that keeps us all proud, as we have been able to integrate a lot of our areas of expertise, including the maintenance of infrastructure, which is a segment we also hold and carry large experience in.

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Our involvement on the Nacala Corridor and on the coal mines with Vale makes us all at Mota-Engil very proud”

Transitex has in Mota-Engil one of its clients of reference for the African market. More than a supplier, Transitex has been a logistics partner for more than a decade, working closely with the Group, anticipating and providing all kinds of solutions that allow the realisation of the most diverse projects that Mota-Engil has on the African continent.

“Today we are already in the future, betting on IT and increasingly innovative solutions that allow us to say that the logistics services that Transitex provides to Mota-Engil will never be a limitation to its development in this continent.”

– Fernando Lima, CEO, Transitex.

Transitex Mozambique (Maputo) T +258 83 9000853 /+258 83 9000852 E mocambique@transitex.co.mz Transitex South Africa (Johannesburg) T + 27 113878880 E Southafrica@transitex.co.za

www.transitex.com

The World Closer.

SERVICES WE PROVIDE: • • • • • • • •

Maritime transport Air and road transport Multimodal transport (e.g.: rail + truck) Cargo consolidation/stuffing Pre-inspection Customs clearance Distribution Cargo insurance…

Transitex Mozambique (Maputo) Rua Joe Slovo nº22 – Condomínio Prédio Saratoga Sala 1 & 2 2284 Maputo Tel: +258 83 9000853 /+258 83 9000852 E-mail: mocambique@transitex.co.mz Transitex South Africa (Johannesburg) Transitex Global Logistics Operations, Pty, Ltd Tunney Ridge Business Park Corner of Sam Green and Pinnacle Road – Block D 1429 – Elandsfontein / Johannesburg, South Africa Tel: + 27 113878880 E-mail: Southafrica@transitex.co.za

www.transitex.com

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NILETRAC LIMITED

N

ileTrac Limited is the authorised distributor in East Africa for Hyundai, XCMG, Visa and Foton covering Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda, and supports a full range of construction and lifting equipment including; tracked excavators, wheel loaders, vibratory rollers, bulldozers, graders, forklifts, concrete equipment, drilling rigs, pickups and trucks, all terrain truck cranes and diesel power generating sets.

We pride ourselves in our skilled human resources of sales, engineers and logistical support staff at our regional offices who are dedicated to supporting our customer enquiries and meeting their needs.

“The project as a whole has been key to our success in recent years and transformative for the Group and our relationship with mining clients.”

Indeed, the work with Vale is just one of many examples showcasing MotaEngil Africa’s expertise in the mining sector. The firm is also a contractor on the Moatize-Macuse Railway Logistics Corridor in Mozambique, a 639-kilometre railway that will transport coal from the mines of Moatize and Chitima in Tete to a new floating coal terminal off the coast at Macuse.

Mota also highlights the Company’s work with Société AngloGold Ashanti as another important project, an ongoing contract involving the provision of equipment and installations at its Siguiri gold mine in Guinea Conkary. Based 850 kilometres northeast of Conkary, the country’s capital, the mine is a vital asset and processes around 30,000 tonnes a day.

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NileTrac Limited’s fully-fledged workshops are equipped with up to date electronic tools and workshop equipment for fault diagnosis, machine repairs, engine overhauls, a mobile workshop team for field maintenance and recovery. The Company also offers a range of product support services through contracts and customer support agreements.

The Company boasts of well stocked warehouses with an updated stock management system to identify the correct parts, make parts orders, and track orders and deliveries, making our lead times very short to the satisfaction of our clients and ensuring your equipment is up and running in the shortest possible time.

With our wide range of solutions for sales, financing facilities, hire/lease of our equipment, NileTrac Limited is confident and committed to ensuring that visions and strategies of Mota-Engil Africa are achieved.

NileTrac Limited and Mota-Engil Africa seek to strengthen their partnership for the execution of projects in the area of infrastructure in the different regions.

E sales@niletrac.com

www.niletrac.com

Moving you further

NILETRAC UGANDA LIMITED Henley Business Park Plot M 424 Ntinda Industrial Area P.O Box 7734 Kampala,Uganda T: +256 414 505777, +256 414 342777 E: sales@niletrac.com NILETRAC RWANDA LIMITED KG 7th Ave #35- Kacyiru Blue Star House 1st Floor, Wing B P.O Box 6571 Kigali, Rwanda T: +256 7888 751 512 E: sales@niletrac.com

NILETRAC KENYA LIMITED Nairobi Head Office Bellway Business Park Mombasa Road P.O Box 421-00502 Nairobi Kenya T: +254 701 444842 E: sales@niletrac.com MOMBASA OFFICE Makupa Causeway Changamwe area Mombasa, Kenya T: +254 701000833 E: sales@niletrac.com

www.niletrac.com

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ASCENDUM

T

he ASCENDUM Group is a Portuguese international group and one of the world’s largest distributors of Volvo construction equipment, present in Portugal, Spain, USA, Turkey, Mexico, Africa and in nine countries across Central and Eastern Europe.

Ascendum sells and rents equipment and provides services for the construction, manufacturing and extractive, mines, forests and recycling industries.

T +351 21 994 65 00 E lisboa@ascendummaquinas.pt

www.ascendummaquinas.pt

“The Siguiri and Moatize developments are projects where we have invested over $170 million in equipment and facilities, and in which we are very active,” Mota continues.

“We have worked across several projects on the continent, with specific focus in Angola, Mozambique and Malawi. Today we also have a presence in the sector across Zimbabwe.”

This includes a five-year mining contract for the Hwange Colliery Mine, operated by Hwange Colliery Company, involving drilling works, detonation, and load and transport of coal. Situated in the remote western tip of Zimbabwe, the mine is back up and running following a two-year hiatus and is set to produce 200,000 tonnes a month.

The country has an ambitious target of producing 10 million tonnes of output over the next two years, a figure which would enable it to begin exporting.

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AST

The Siguiri and Moatize developments are projects where we have invested over $170 million in equipment and facilities”

A

ST is an environmental consulting and construction firm that designs and implements sustainable environmental solutions.

The Company is a full-service provider studying challenges and designing solutions – it builds, operates and maintains environmental systems.

AST was founded in 2008 in Portugal and its technical team has more than 20 years of experience. Landfill leachate treatment (using reverse osmosis), water and wastewater services form the firm’s core of expertise, which is delivered on a turnkey or rental basis for clients.

For more information, be sure to visit: www.ast-ambiente.com T +351 220 163 277 E office@ast-ambiente.com

M I N I N G

&

R E S O U R C E S

AST is an environmental consulting and construction firm that designs and implements sustainable environmental solutions.

SERVICES • Consultancy • Design • Construction • Operation and maintenance • Technical support • Rental

ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS AND SERVICES

PRODUCTS • Landfill leachate treatment systems • Water and wastewater treatment systems by membrane technology • Supply of equipments, parts and consumables

+351 220 163 277 | office@ast-ambiente.com www.ast-ambiente.com

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Diversified

More than 70 years of continuous presence in Africa has allowed MotaEngil Africa to diversify into many other fields of expertise.

Mining projects amount to around 20 percent of the Company’s current backlog of contracts, a stream of work which amounts to more than $3 billion. Around 60 percent falls into the broad construction and engineering category, with the remaining 20 percent covering waste management and collection.

“In the pipeline we have several more projects under discussion, some awaiting finance from the client or organised by us, and some which are public,” Mota says.

“However, we do not disclose our pipeline, as to not induce our investors into the wrong perception, as this can be very variable across the continent and sectors. As you can imagine, though, the combined value is considerably higher than what we

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EXPORLUX GROUP

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xporlux Group is one of the leading Portuguese manufacturers in the indoor, outdoor and street lighting sector.

Always seeking innovation and excellence on product functioning and performance, its philosophy is based on the development of systems that minimise energy consumption while making a rational and responsible use of resources within a consistent recycling policy and a continuous process of investment in R&D. At the Company’s core, Exporlux has an advanced centre for research and development in the fields of optics, electronics and light sources. This centre designs and carries out all the necessary studies for product development and industrialisation, thus ensuring the best results.

T +351 234 639 230 E exporlux@exporlux.pt

www.exporlux.pt

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EXPORLUX COMPANY PORTRAIT Exporlux Group is one of the leading portuguese manufacturers in the indoor, outdoor and street lighting sector.

Always seeking innovation and excellence on product functioning and performance, it’s philosophy is based on the development of systems that minimize energy consumption while making a rational and responsible use of resources within a consistent recycling policy and a continuous process of investment in R & D. At the company’s core, Exporlux has an advanced centre for research and development in the fields of optics, electronics and light sources. This center designs and carries out all the necessary studies for product development and industrialization, thus ensuring the best results.

Contact us for a project: +351 234 639 230 | exporlux@exporlux.pt |

www.exporlux.pt

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FULCRUM CONSULT LIMITED

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ulcrum Consult Limited is a construction and hire rental company that specialises in a wide range of earthmoving and road construction equipment.

The Company hires out a wide range of top earthmoving and road construction equipment including track excavators, mobile excavators, bulldozers, graders, compactors, backhoes, wheel loaders and cranes.

Its product line of more than 100 machines reflects the Company’s increased focus on customer success, with the aim of remaining a market leader by continuing to help its customers meet their needs with durable and reliable equipment.

T +256 752 700305 E info@fulcrum.ug

Cabinda’s General Hospital

actually have in backlog.”

Among its projects underway in Angola is a $165 million construction and resourcing of the first stage of Cabinda’s General Hospital, a development which began in 2017 and slated for completion in July 2019.

Last year the Company completed construction of a pier, seawall and wharf to the city’s port.

In Malawi, Mota-Engil Africa is delivering several road infrastructure projects, including an 82-kilometre road linking Thyolo and Thekerani and 95-kilometre highway out of Lilongwe.

This adds to recently completed works covering hydropower stations and rail upgrades.

Further west, the firm is engaged in a seven-year contract for urban cleaning, collection and transport of solid municipal waste in Abidjan, the capital of the Ivory Coast. These operations will involve around 280 vehicles and 2,000 employees who will serve 4.6 million citizens and collect

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www.fulcrum.ug

NORS GROUP A long partnership with Africa The Nors Group is a Portuguese Group whose vision is to be a world leader in transport solutions, construction equipment and agriculture equipment.

With 25 years of experience in Africa, Nors currently works in Angola, Botswana, Namibia and Mozambique, operating with Auto Sueco and AutoMaquinaria on the sale and aftersale of trucks, construction equipment, cars, marine and industrial engines, generators and original components.

It represents a number of leading brands, including Volvo Trucks, Renault Trucks, UD Trucks, Volvo Construction Equipment, SDLG, Volvo Cars, Volvo Penta and KHOLER-SDMO. T +351 226 150 320 E info@nors.com Construction of waste disposal site at Abidjan

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www.nors.com

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Plot 1094, 1095 Salaama Road

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+2567 77005519 | +2567 57623029

www.fulcrum.ug

Fulcrum consult limited

@consult_fulcrum

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MAC EAST AFRICA

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s a valued business partner, we want to congratulate Mota Engil on the successful completion of projects that are necessary for Uganda’s development.

As the sole distributor of Isuzu in Uganda and a subsidiary company of the ALMANSOUR Group, our brand is with you for the long run. We oblige to continue offering you the best aftersales customer care, including quality service using genuine Isuzu spare parts, backed up by a well-trained after sales team for all your needs.

Mac East Africa is committed to providing the highest quality products backed by the best in class customer service.

Mohamed Khadr, Country General Manager, Mac EA LTD. T +256 414 252810/1/2/3 T +256 706 605 550 E info@macuganda.com

more than eight million tonnes of waste.

In order to cater to clients across this diverse portfolio, Mota-Engil Africa draws on a significant pool of locallybased resources.

At any one time it has around 4,500 items of heavy equipment on site, with key materials stored at a warehouse in Viana, situated in Angola’s Luanda province. In addition to this, the firm holds complimentary warehouses in South Africa and across other countries in the region. Comprising 18,200 square metres of storage, the site ensures optimal levels of supplies are maintained according to operational needs.

Precast factories and project camps help to enable self-reliance in remote and challenging areas, bringing prefabrication capability and project management closer to the client. Such camps also house the workforces responsible for delivering these developments.

A network of quarries and

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SIDERÚRGICA REQUENA S.A.

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IDERÚRGICA REQUENA, S.A. is a company located in Madrid, Spain, dedicated to maintenance, repair, transformation and supply of railway equipment since 1931.

Since the 1990s Siderúrgica Requena S.A. has been a partner of the Mota-Engil Group and is the company which maintains and supplies it with railway vehicles in relation to activities in Portugal and Africa.

The key products for supply are: hopper wagons, flats wagons, track cars, wagons to transport carril as well as smaller wagons made at our plant, which are shown in the advert opposite.

T + 34 91 702 72 52 E comercial@siderurgicarequena.com E central@siderurgicarequena.com

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SIDERÚRGICA REQUENA, S.A. offers maintenance, repair, transformation and supply of wagons and other associated railway equipment.

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Calle de Eduardo Barreiros, 116 28041 Madrid, Spain T: + 34 91 702 72 52 E: comercial@siderurgicarequena.com E: central@siderurgicarequena.com

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aggregate batching plants supply vital construction materials to the frontline. This is made up of 19 plants in Angola, nine in other Southern African Development Community countries and three in East Africa, combining to offer an installed capacity of 2,940 tonnes per hour.

“Our logistical and mobilisation capacity is what stands us apart in Africa,” Mota states. “Add this to the fact we are vertically integrated, and we are a unique player on the continent. We have a strong HR and asset base, and that allows us to operate independently across the different countries, with the capability to provide all construction works with in-house capacity.”

Staying ahead

Mota recognises that continual investment and a flexible approach to company development is crucial if it is

to build on this formidable foundation.

“Naturally we need to keep investing on our asset base and logistical areas to be able to stay ahead of the competition,” he says.

“This is crucial, as new technologies are developing quickly, and not so many of them are seen on the continent at the moment. We will try to develop them and bring them into our projects in Africa at the same time as we implement them in other regions.”

Mining is a sector Mota identifies as especially ripe for technological advancement in the region.

His confidence is backed by a study from Grand View Research which estimates the global mining automation market will be worth $6.2 billion by 2025, growing at an average annual rate of 7.3 percent.

The need for optimising production costs, reducing human intervention,

SOLARGUS

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ince 1974, the Group´s activities have included built steel structures, renewable energy solutions, and the manufacturing and installation of thermal systems.

Today, Solargus continues to operate in an increasingly demanding market, supplying quality products with expert technicians and support staff on hand to ensure the Company keeps its marketleading position.

T +351 235 712 180 E geral@sangobiar.net E solargus@sapo.pt

www.solargus.pt

and changing the mining landscape are key growth-driving factors for mining automation. Increasing investment in digital technologies, including analytics and human-machine interactions, is also expected to be one of the key factors driving this trend.

Specifically, automated drone systems are expected to become an essential technology in future mining automation and digitisation activities, with several mining giants already adopting this to enable rapid data collection.

Driverless vehicles form another lively subcategory and are already impacting African mining operations.

Mali is set to become home to the world’s first fully autonomous underground mine by the end of 2018, the work of Australian gold miner Resolute Mining, which has spent $223 million rolling out automated trucks, loaders and drills at its Syama site.

“Definitely on the mining side,

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CIMAR, SA is a company dedicated to the national and international market, with the main mission of manufacturing and supplying equipment with technology for the heavy-duty vehicles sector. Its main framework is the transportation and construction industry.

T: +351 252660130 | F: +351 252660139 | www.cimar.pt

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automation of equipment is something that will occur, and which is not yet widely seen in the continent,” says Mota. “This is something we are keen to invest in, to make our operations more efficient.”

Technology aside, Mota also predicts that the way in which projects are planned and executed will change over time.

“The way clients approach projects will change,” he continues. “Over previous years, many projects in mining have gone over budget, so we are continuously looking for more collaborative approaches where we can become partners and not simply service providers.

“This will, for sure, involve us integrating more of our range of services into proactive approaches to contracts.

This will result in a reduction in capex for clients by transforming them into opex.”

Into Nigeria

Embracing the new also means expansion into previously unexplored markets.

Earlier this year Mota-Engil Africa signed an agreement with independent oil producer Shoreline Group to create a new joint venture, Mota-Engil Nigeria.

Not only has the creation of this division opened up access to Africa’s largest economy, but also the continent’s most prolific producer of oil.

“Nigeria is a huge opportunity that we have not embraced before,” says Mota.

“Before establishing the partnership, we held regular discussions with Shoreline Group to understand how we could better pursue these opportunities and enter into the market.”

In Shoreline Group the Company has found a formidable partner.

Founded in 1997, with its head office in Lagos and an additional office in London, the firm has operations across Sub-Saharan Africa. Its portfolio of 16 operating companies, with more than 3,000 employees, includes

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Costain West Africa, Shoreline Power, GASLAND and TAFL, as well as others in the oil & gas sector.

“At the moment we are in the process of tendering and identifying further opportunities, with the aim of establishing our first project in the market,” Mota adds.

“People are on the ground, and we hope to materialise the first project sooner rather than later. Both Mota-

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Engil and Shoreline believe there is space to develop a key player in the market, a player which is highly qualified and can make the difference.”

Mota is right to point to the size of the opportunity in Nigeria.

According to the AfDB, the country’s infrastructure deficit constitutes around $3 trillion over the next 26 years, equivalent to about $100 billion annually.

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FNC Engineering are registered with the National Construction Industry Council within the Building Category: 1 billion Kwacha and the Civil Category: 500 million Kwacha.

PACK WAS AGE PLA T LIGH EWATER NTS FOR T LIQ UID S TREATM DOMEST IC AN EPAR ENT A D IN ND ATOR | GR REUSE DUSTRIA EAS L E SE PARA TOR S

We are specialists in: • Civil • Building • Fabrication • Irrigation • Water • Borehole Infrastructure • Sewage Disposal

WWW.ECODEPUR.EU

E: fnccivil.building@yahoo.com | M: +265 999 27 93 58, +265 999 208 305 www.fnc-engineering.com

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This presents Mota-Engil Nigeria with a potentially enormous market in which to thrive, not only as a business but also as a key contributor to the Nigerian economy. Indeed, at the time of the joint venture announcement, Mota revealed that the value of the projects on the table could be worth as much as $1.8 billion.

Global reach

This new unit will sit under the wider Mota-Engil Africa business, which now constitutes one of three corporate divisions that are housed in the holding company Mota-Engil SGPS. Having started out exclusively in Africa in its first 30 years of existence, the organisation has since morphed into a global giant that operates far beyond the African continent. This no better reflected than by the fact that its three divisions – Africa, Europe and Latin America – operate 285 companies between them.

We are currently working on some partnerships to establish procurement bases out of China and Dubai to strengthen our integration and supplier base” Mota-Engil Latin America comprises 87 companies that generate more than $1 billion across eight countries, much of this coming from roads and highways projects in Mexico, Aruba, Colombia and Brazil. This has been a strong growth region for the Group, 2017’s revenue representing a 50 jump on the previous year.

The European business is the largest in terms of number of companies managed, with 154 separate businesses operating across six countries.

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Highway developments and waste management form a key part of the division’s annual turnover of $941 million, which largely derives from its historical home in Portugal and also from Poland, where it ranks in the country’s top 10 construction companies.

In Africa, Mota is looking to reflect the wider company’s global reach in the way it approaches its own supply chain operations. Although much of the emphasis is on maximising local supplier networks, looking further

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afield is certainly an option being explored with increasing interest.

“We have an integrated approach to the supply chain, with bases run out of Portugal, Angola and South Africa,” Mota explains.

“All procurement requests follow through not only locally, but also worldwide. We are currently working on some partnerships to establish procurement bases out of China and Dubai to strengthen our integration and supplier base.”

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PROUDLY SHAPPING AFRICA’S INFRASTRUCTURES Presence in

Khwiki Construction Founded in 2004, KHWIKI Construction has evolved to become a construction contract specialist, offering end-to-end solutions.

Our objective is to offer an assured experience when we are chosen to execute projects, emphasising clear communication to ensure our client’s objectives are the top priority.

Working with Mota Engil has broadened our perspective and we are proud to serve its contractual needs.

SOUTH AFRICA . MOZAMBIQUE MALAWI . ANGOLA . TANZANIA KENIA . IVORY COAST . GHANA ALGERIA . LYBIA

www.qd-eng.com

PO Box 40575, Kanengo, Malawi Mines Ngoma: minessn@yahoo.com | +265 99 9954416

TERMCOTANK S.A. SWITZERLAND

B I T U M E N

Bitumen and Oil Products Distribution

QUALITY, SERVICE, VALUE +41 22 703 47 20 general@termcotank.ch

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Investing in people

If Mota-Engil Africa is looking internationally to optimise its procurement operation, employment strategy very much centres around providing opportunities for local people.

Of the 12,600-plus employees currently on the Company’s books, some 91 percent are locals, a figure which rises to 94 percent in Malawi, 95 percent in Tanzania, 97 in Zimbabwe and 98 percent in South Africa.

“This is a key factor for us,” says Mota. “We try to keep our expat base to the bare minimum, and to develop local resources. In some countries we have been more successful than others, and each time we see more local people taking more responsibility within our organisation.

“Every year we run a trainee programme within the Group that integrates young people from across all our businesses and countries into one unique platform, allowing them to have visibility and integration with our workforce across all countries and regions where we are present.”

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it is important for us to expand in the countries where we are into diversified business areas, such as mining, waste management and treatment, and concessions” As well as developing and upskilling its own employees, MotaEngil Africa also heavily involves itself in benefitting the lives of citizens in surrounding communities.

This partly derives from the spirit of philanthropy and solidarity instilled by the Group’s founder Manuel António da Mota, who championed positive and active participation in society. In December 2009, a foundation was set up in the founder’s name and forms a crucial part of Mota-Engil’s corporate social responsibility activities.

The primary aim of the Manuel António da Mota Foundation is to

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promote, develop and support social initiatives, charities and cultural programmes covering education, health, environment and the arts.

Although the foundation is based in Porto, the mottos it promotes can be found across all three corporate divisions, including in Africa.

“We are very active in this area,” adds Mota. “Originally, we had an individual approach, but during 2018 launched the ME African Initiatives in partnership with the Manuel António da Mota Foundation, where the programmes in Africa are fully funded

by Mota-Engil Africa.

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TOP RANGE CIVIL ENGINEERING CONTRACTORS

TRCEC executes various civil engineering works, which includes: • Surfacing: Construction or rehabilitation of existing paved roads, patching, over laying, chip sealing, slurry sealing, paving, car parks, driveways etc.

• Asphalt production (Premix) • Bush clearing, ripping, harrowing, ridging • General civil engineering works: grading, compaction, excavation, bridges, dams, drifts, box culverts, concrete pavements, road construction and rehabilitation and masonry and irrigation works.

• Hiring of Heavy Duty Earth Moving Equipment, Lifting/ Hoistimg (Mobile Cranes &Forklifts), Transportation (Haulage, Lowbed & Water Bowsers)

T: +265 211 960 007 / +265 888 900 786 | M: +265 888 821 135, +265 888 202 578 E: jsattar@africa-online.net / taufeeq@africa-online.net

“The primary focus is on education and health, and in time we will work on the basis of having one contract, one social action and/or programme, and we will dimension ourselves to achieve that objective through the course of the next period of years.”

Building a bright future

And it is over the next three to five years that Mota aims to solidify the Company’s leading status across the continent, building on the foundations built over the previous seven decades, both in terms of business and community relations.

Mota-Engil Africa can also impact the bigger picture.

According to AfDB’s 2018 African Economic Outlook, the continent has a compelling case for accelerating its infrastructure development.

First, it is a continent of small and open economies that will rely on trade as their major source of growth, and

such international trade is no longer about manufacturing in one place and selling in another, the report says.

Rather, “it is about cooperating across boundaries and time zones to minimise production costs and maximise market coverage”. Infrastructure is thus vital to the smooth running of these value chains.

Second, given Africa is a relative latecomer in its economic development, the benefits to be reaped from improved infrastructure are higher than other parts of the world.

Companies like Mota-Engil Africa, therefore, have the power to push forwards economic progress, especially given the wide reach the firm already has across the SubSaharan region.

Outlining his key priorities looking ahead, Mota concludes: “We aim to establish ourselves as a leader in the continent in our areas of action. We

have achieved that in many of the countries we are in, but intend to achieve this in all countries where we are present.

“If, in three years’ time, we have doubled the number of countries where we are market leaders, that will be a big achievement. For that to happen, it is important to perform and make a difference in the countries we have more recently moved in to, and this is something we are doing step by step.

“On another note, it is important for us to expand in the countries where we are into diversified business areas, such as mining, waste management and treatment, and concessions.

We aim to have a solidified presence across all sectors in all of the countries we are in.”

Mota-Engil Africa Tel: -8.833092, 13.230582 info@ mota-engil.cv www.mota-engil.cv

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MINING PORTFOLIO

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