Australian Mining May 2011

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SERVING THE MINING INDUSTRY SINCE 1908

VOLUME 103/5 – MAY 2011

www.miningaustralia.com.au

NO.1 FOR MINING TECHNOLOGY AND EQUIPMENT

Pit lake problems Mine site rehabilitation

SA/NT Spotlight

THE CENTRE STATES Mining Australia’s middle

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Trucks

MOVING FORWARD Site transport

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Print Post Approved PP255003/00535

Safety

NOMINATIONS OPEN 8th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards co-hosted by AIMEX

CRUCIAL FACTORS High standards

P.42

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ASIA-PACIFIC’S INTERNATIONAL MINING EXHIBITION aimex.com.au

6-9 September 2011 SYDNEY SHOWGROUND I SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK I NSW I AUSTRALIA

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Too big to miss.

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COMMENT

Mining Australian

Copyright Reed Business Information Published 12 issues a year by Reed Business Information (ABN 80 132 719 861) Tower 2, 475 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood, NSW 2067 Australia Tel: (02) 9422 2999 Fax: (02) 9422 2966 Editor – Cole Latimer Tel: (02) 9422 2352 Email: ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au Journalist – Jessica Burke Tel: (02) 9422 2909 Email: ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au Account Manager – Sarah Bateman Tel: (02) 9422 8994 Mob: 0408 991 585 Email: sarah.bateman@reedbusiness.com.au Account Manager – Tim Richards Tel: (02) 9422 2818 Mob: 0407 948 774 Email: tim.richards@reedbusiness.com.au WA Representative – Jamie Wade Mob: 0435 945 868 Email: jamie@wadebusiness.com.au QLD and SA Sales Manager – Sharon Amos Tel: (07) 3261 8857 Fax: (07) 3261 8347 Mob: 0417 072 625 Email: sharon.amos@reedbusiness.com.au New Business – Alex Evans Tel: (02) 9422 2890 Email: alex.evans@reedbusiness.com.au RBI Manufacturing & Electronics Group: Associate Publisher – Michelle Graves Email: michelle.graves@reedbusiness.com.au Graphic Designer – Dave Ashley Production Co-ordinator – Mary Copland Tel: (02) 9422 2738 Fax: (02) 9422 2966 South Africa – Bob Stephen Stephen Marketing PO Box 75, Tarlton, Gauteng 1749, South Africa Tel: 27(011) 952 1721 Fax: 27(011) 952 1607 USA – Jonathan Sismey RBI 24th Floor, 125 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10017 Tel: (1) 212 370 7445 Fax: (1) 212 370 7441 Email: jsismey@ix.netcom.com Larry Arthur RBI Suite 203, 3700 Campus Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Tel: (1) 949 756 1057 Fax: (1) 949 756 2514 Email: lharthur@ix.netcom.com Printed by GEON 20 Baker Street, Banksmeadow, NSW 2019 Tel: (02) 8333 6555

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Mining’s final frontier Many are asking where to next in the mining race?

A

s the mining industry continues to expand it is always looking to the next frontier.

At the moment, the new hot ticket is Mongolia and the Central Asian Republics (CARs) such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and even Afghanistan, which is already starting to draw the mining industry across to the war torn nation’s completely untapped potential.

Discussions about nuclear power and the debate about whether to export or enrich uranium here has hotted up.

Exploded, even.

Nuclear energy makes people nervous, and rightly so. It can potentially be very dangerous.

Comment Cole Latimer ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au But it could also have some benefits for Australia.

So where can we go next, where will mining end up?

What about mining in outer space.

From one end of the earth to other, you can already find miners hard at work.

Even far out at sea, you’ll find drillers working away both above and below the surface of the water, so expanding the horizons into space is simply a natural progression.

And with new minerals ready to be found floating in its outer reaches; minerals with unknown potential; it is definitely an exciting time to be in mining.

Just last month scientists discovered the never before seen mineral Wassonite.

A number of US and Indian firms are looking at potentially mining on the moon, with MIT reporting that there is set to be a race to secure Helium-3 from the satellite.

There is also set to be a run to mine asteroids and even work on comets.

One can only imagine the strict site safety laws that will have to be in place while working on a relatively small rock hurtling through space at thousands of kilometres per hour.

Movies and television have already portrayed what mining in space will be like, and it is fairly varied to say the least.

From Avatar showing miners in a fairly horrible light to Aliens showing them being decimated, the future does not look too bright.

Fortunately, it’s unlikely to be like either of these.

One thing is certain; mining in space would make FIFO more interesting.

CORRECTION

ON THE FRONT COVER

COAL Services is an industry-owned, workplace-owned organisation, providing medical care and advice to mine workers.

It focuses not only on incidents and accidents inside mines, but also aims to prevent workers injuries by providing advice and training to ensure the long-term health of their members.

Coal Services’ mobile health van visits mine sites and offers consultation and solutions for miners.

We also showed a picture of the Coal Services van last month in our feature on injuries in the Hunter Valley.

The image of miners being treated by medical professionals were also supplied by Coal Services, and show some of the treatment and diagnosis options it provides to workers.

Australian Mining apologises for not correctly attributing the images to Coal Services.

In this edition of Australian Mining, we’ve featured a pit lake on the front cover. Pit lakes typically form following site rehabilitation, where the miners fill open cut pits or quarries with water; however some form inadvertantly during heavy rainfalls.

Rehabilitated pit lakes have recently drawn more focus as environmental standards rise and the potential profit from their re-use is being seen.

Recently, Queensland saw a high number of its open cut mines become pit lakes following Cyclone Yasi's trail of destruction across the State, with many mines filling with many kilolitres of water in mere hours.

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Contents Features MONGOLIA Building business in the C.A.Rs Risks and rewards of new mining frontiers.....................................p10-12

May 2011 issue

Venting on the issue

PROFILE Industry champion legacy inspires Craig Oliver’s legacy remembered ....................................................... p14 DUST/VENTILATION/FIRE SUPPRESSION The dangers of poor ventilation Investigating the Pike River and Upper Big Branch blasts..................... p18 SOUTH AUSTRALIA/NORTHERN TERRITORY SPOTLIGHT A new era for ERA An insight into Energy Resources Australia ......................................... p20 Enriching the uranium debate The future of the industry .............................................................. p22-23 GEMCO’s plan a Gem Community initiatives in the Territory................................................. p24 ENVIRONMENTAL Survey specialists Removing taxonomic survey headaches .............................................. p26 Open discussions on open pits Rehabilitating open cut mines ........................................................ p28-29 Heavy metal vegetation Revegetation on toxic ground ............................................................. p30 Gaining closure Strategic mine rectification .................................................................. p31 TRUCKS AND TRANSPORT Proper tyre tracking Extending the lifespan of truck tyres ................................................... p32 Harder, better, safer Increasing ROPS safety........................................................................ p36 Under pressure In-vehicle air tanks .............................................................................. p38

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New ventilation works in New Zealand...p16

Keep on trucking

Cat’s latest articulated trucks…p34

Regulars INDUSTRY COMMENT ................................................................................ p8 PRODUCT FOCUS: Safety ................................................................... p42-48 PRODUCT SHOWCASE....................................................................... p50-58 PROSPECT AWARDS................................................................................ p62 JOBS ........................................................................................................... p64 EVENTS........................................................................................................p66

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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INDUSTRY COMMENT

Killing the golden goose Mine Life’s Gavin Wendt writes on the Government drawing its knives on the mining industry.

I

commented last year that the scenario after the federal election could be very different to the situation prior, which could have potentially harmful consequences for the Australian mining industry.

So far my fears have been realised, with Julia Gillard reneging on her Carbon Tax promise and the Greens still agitating for a higher rate of taxation on mining company profits, despite the seeming royalty win by the big miners.

My fear prior to last year’s federal election was that the Greens would win effective control of not only the Senate (which will happen in the middle of this year), but also effective control of the House of Representatives.

This scenario has pretty much materialised.

My resultant apprehension for the mining sector was two-fold: firstly, Julia Gillard would renege on her promise of ‘No Carbon Tax’ (box ticked); and secondly: that something approximating the original Super Profits Tax would eventually be passed by the Senate (not yet).

Australia’s biggest mining companies have seemingly won a major concession with respect to the planned new 30% MRRT, with the Federal

The Government is intent on killing off the mining Golden Goose, Minelife’s Gavin Wendt says.

government agreeing to refund any future increases in statebased royalty charges.

The decision was pretty much anticipated and will save miners hundreds of millions of dollars in future royalty payments in resource states like Western Australia and Queensland.

But the battle is in my view a long way from won, with the Greens warning they will fight any new concessions that would benefit miners at the expense of taxpayers.

The Greens have argued since prior to the election that they would campaign for a mining tax that approximated the 40% Super Profits Tax, rather than the 30% MRRT. The opposition has steadfastly objected to the tax and the Greens want it to be increased, but up to this point they have said they would not use their numbers to defeat the tax if they do not get their way.

Whether the Greens will keep their word is far from certain.

Uncertainty currently reigns in the industry as the spectre of the MRRT is broadened.

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And there’s the possibility that the Labor Government could now use pressure by the Greens to that say its hand has been forced, allowing it to push for a harsher tax.

It’s fair enough that the mining industry still shares grave concerns about the proposed MRRT. After all there was virtually no consultation with the broader industry (i.e. the +850 listed companies plus scores of private businesses), rather it was pretty much negotiation between the Government, and the three biggest miners operating in Australia (BHP, RIO and Xstrata).

What’s good for the Big Three isn’t necessarily good for our resource industry as a whole.

Where was the voice of smaller and mid-cap miners, who make up the bulk of the mining industry?

Where are the exploration incentives that the broader industry has long been calling on for years?

Uncertainty reigns, with the spectre of the MRRT being broadened over time to include other commodities than just iron ore and coal.

We saw in late 2010 that independent assessments

showed that the Government’s anticipated revenue from the revised MRRT was going to be roughly $8 billion less than the $10.5 billion that had previously forecast just a few months earlier.

This was the second financial stuff-up in just a few months, as Labor had previously miscalculated the revenue from the original RSPT ( where the tax would actually have raised $24 billion – double what the Government had initially forecast).

So if the Government has little clue as to how much money it will realistically raise, how do we have any assurance that it won’t simply change the rules and broaden/ raise the level of the MRRT in the future to achieve its revenue objectives?

How can we have any confidence in the Government and Treasury’s assertions that the tax won’t damage our industry?

The answer is of course that we can’t.

Treasurer Wayne Swan last year tried to hide his $8 billion revenue black-hole by conveniently and coincidentally releasing Treasury estimates that simultaneously showed higher commodity price forecasts than previously used.

The revised Treasury commodity forecasts neatly erased the black-hole to the tune of – you guessed it – $8 billion!

Rio Tinto CEO Tom Albanese spoke at Mines & Money in Hong Kong of the rising problem of ‘resource nationalism’ relating to Governments around the world.

This provides huge uncertainty for companies like his that are trying to get on with the business of developing mineral deposits With the seemingly inevitable introduction of both a Carbon Tax and a new mining tax, our Federal politicians seem more than desperate to kill off as quickly as they possibly can the Goose that laid our Golden Egg. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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MONGOLIA

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in the C.A.Rs In the second part of our Mongolian focus, Leigh Duthie* and Simon Bellas* look at the legal risks and rewards of mining in Central Asia.

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ongolia and Kazakhstan have both emerged from the uncertainty of the collapse of the Soviet Union to become vibrant market economies.

Endowed with natural advantages: their physical location in Central Asia, bordering China; their size (Mongolia is the size of Western Europe, Kazakhstan is even larger, the ninth-largest country in the world); both have worldclass natural resources.

Kazakhstan is the world’s leading producer of uranium, with 15% of the world's reserves, 8% of the world's zinc, 7% of its manganese, 4% of its iron ore and it ranks in the top 10 of countries for coal, oil, gas, chrome, zinc and gold reserves.

Mongolia has some of the world’s largest untapped coal deposits as well as iron ore prospects.

Equally important has been the way in which these countries have transformed their systems of governance, each adopted new constitutions in the early 1990s and political stability has been a major factor in encouraging investment in both countries from major multinationals and Australian miners.

Economic growth has been impressive in each case.

The IMF predicts the Mongolian economy will this year grow faster than China.

The opportunities are clear to see, so what are the risks?

Risks In contrast to Australia’s relatively stable, predictable system, Kazakhstan’s legal system can be erratic, inconsistent, and uncertain and also, at times, lack impartiality.

Whilst the industry may have a relatively high degree of confidence in contracts entered into and court proceedings in Australia, that same level of confidence can not exist in Kazakhstan.

In addition to the fact that Kazakhstan is unfamiliar to outsiders, particularly those used to common law jurisdictions, there are some significant legal weaknesses with particular application to the mining industry.

In line with a growing “resource nationalism”, the Government has shown a clear propensity to rewrite and renegotiate the terms of subsoil/resource/investment contracts negotiated in earlier times.

• Doing business free from corruption The surge of investment in Kazakhstan and Mongolia in recent years has the potential to create issues around transparent administration and corruption.

It should be emphasised that both countries have taken real and genuine steps to address this problem and they Continued on page 12

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CALL 1300 369 273 OR VISIT W W W. E N WA R E . C O M . A U / E N PAC The Mongolian economy is set to grow faster than China’s this year, the IMF says.

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MONGOLIA

Continued from page 10 are not at the extreme end of the corruption scale.

Transparency International's 2010 Corruption Perceptions Index, ranking 178 countries/territories according to the perceived level of public sector corruption (1 equals least corrupt, 180 equals most corrupt) ranked Kazakhstan at 105 and Mongolia at 116, however both are perceived to be less corrupt than miners' regular trading partners Russia, Ukraine and Azerbaijan.

• Complying with Australian antibribery laws Australian anti-bribery laws, in general terms, prohibit the bribery of public officials and the giving or receiving of corrupt commissions to an agent regardless of whether a public official is involved.

Mitigating risk under Australian anti-bribery legislation requires a culture of compliance at every level of the relevant corporate structure.

In practical terms this requires the design, implementation, management and auditing of anti-corruption policies and procedures from the board down to all opportunities in the global business, including subsidiaries and third party contractors.

So how do you settle disputes?

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Kazakhstan is a country that is currently in transition, Duthie and Bellas say.

Doing business in any country carries with it the risk of dispute.

Mongolia and Kazakhstan are civil law countries with codified legal systems.

According to various international agency reports, judges in both Kazakhstan and Mongolia often lack proper training and experience.

Also there is a common perception that the judiciary is less likely to find in favour of a foreign entity in a dispute with a Kazakhstani State authority or influential local party.

For many Australian companies wishing to have commercial disputes resolved by individuals experienced in commercial law, international arbitration is the obvious answer.

Both Mongolia and Kazakhstan have ratified the 1958 New York Convention, meaning that international arbitration awards are technically recognised and enforced in each country, and those awards are also enforceable around the world in other New York Convention countries.

• Doing business successfully Australian companies doing business, or proposing to do business, in Mongolia or Kazakhstan should keep top of mind: (a) the importance of being realistic that such countries are “in transition” and the need to weigh the inherent political / legal risks against their own corporate strategy and risk profiles; (b) the need for a strong corporate culture which has a zero tolerance approach to bribery and corruption; and (c) the need to incorporate into all relevant contracts arbitration agreements words that ensure disputes will be settled in accordance with recognised international arbitration laws.

Lastly, we recommend partnering with good local business contacts and advisors who can assist in minimizing and navigating the risks so as to make the most of the opportunities that abound. *Leigh Duthie is a Partner and Simon Bellas is a Senior Associate of law firm Baker & McKenzie in Melbourne and Kazakhstan respectively.

• Baker & McKenzie 02 9225 0200 www.bakermckenzie.com

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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MINING LEGACY

Industry champion’s legacy inspires A Western Australian gold and nickel exploration company is the inaugural recipient of an award named after a man gone but not forgotten. Australian Mining’s WA correspondent Jamie Wade writes.

C

raig Oliver, a former chief executive officer for the Western Australian mining company Western Areas NL, was one of six board members of Sundance Resources Limited who were tragically killedin a plane crash in the Congo in June 2010.

He was 46.

The loss of Craig left many bereaved, but his legacy as an inspirational and passionate champion for the mining industry will live on through an award named in his honour.

The Craig Oliver Award will be presented annually to an ‘all round’, small-to-mid cap Australian mining company which has excelled in several areas.

These include exploration, mining, corporate, environmental and community.

Independence Group managing director Chris Bonwick was humbled to receive the inaugural award in a moving presentation ceremony at an explorers’ conference in Fremantle this year.

However, his acceptance speech was overshadowed by the recollections of the man who touched many.

In presenting the award

alongside Craig’s family, industry peers and colleagues, Western Areas managing director Julian Hanna reflected on Craig’s legacy.

“Craig was a wonderful and enthusiastic character who made a really lasting contribution to the mining industry over his 20 year career,” Hanna said.

“He was an all-rounder, you couldn’t hold him back.

“He got involved in every aspect of mining.

“If it was exploration, he’d be out on the drill rig. If it was mining, he’d be down in the mine telling the operators how to operate an air leg or where the jumbo should be drilling.

“In financing, he’d be rubbing shoulders with the top funds in New York; and in developing projects he’d be telling colleagues to ‘ramp up mill production’.

“He was just a wonderful enthusiast.”

As an advocate for the industry, Craig was also remembered as one of the key people behind the successful antiresources tax rally in Perth in mid-2010.

“He really was quite a

political character as well and a driving force for axing the mining tax,” Bonwick said.

“It was Craig who got all those wonderful banners printed. It was Craig who got Gina Rinehart and Andrew Forrest up on the truck. And I think the truck itself came from Hampton Hill Station which was part of his family heartland in the goldfields.

“Craig was on the phone working politicians and we all know the results of that campaign. It was hugely effective and certainly had Craig’s name written all over it.”

Companies were nominated for the Craig Oliver Award based on their ‘all round’ contribution to the resources sector in WA, encompassing the key areas of exploration, development, mining, corporate or social activities.

In winning the award, Independence Group NL beat a quality field of Western Australian resources companies, including Beadell Resources Ltd, Magma Metals Ltd, Northern Star Resources Ltd, Sandfire Resources NL, Silver Lake Resources Ltd, Southern Gold Ltd as well as Tanami Gold NL.

Drilling work being carried out at Independence Group’s Tropicanca deposit.

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The late Craig Oliver, for whom the award is named.

Independence Group’s flagship mine is the Long nickel mine in Kambalda, Western Australia. It also owns 30 per cent of the AngloGold Ashantioperated Tropicana gold project, also in Western Australia.

In accepting the trophy made of silver, titanium, copper and gold, Chris Bonwick praised colleagues and the mining industry.

“There’s probably been 12 decent ore bodies found in the last 12 months by various companies. Not all of those are in Australia, but certainly our industry here is strong and vibrant,” he said.

The award was judged by representatives from each of the sponsoring companies including prominent resources journalist Ross Louthean. He said Independence was a deserving winner.

“Independence has some really talented geoscientists in their team and been putting runs on the board for years,” he told Australian Mining.

“I’ve followed Benambra from when Western Mining made the original discovery and there’s been technical

issues for a lot of companies and I think Independence has nutted them out. Time will tell. And their new discovery: the Bentley deposit – near the Jaguar deposit – sounds really interesting; the cash flow they should get from those operations will be good.”

“They’ve picked up the Western Mining database for diamonds but also the De Beers’ database for Australia; diamonds are also an indicator of minerals and that led them to the Tropicana discovery. Their databases also helped them with the work they were doing on the joint venture with Southern Boulder for the Rosie Nickel Project.

“They’ve been making good cash flow out of the Long Nickel Mine and been ploughing it back into exploration-development – as well as rewarding shareholders.”

The Craig Oliver award will be presented annually at the RIU Explorers Conference to an Australian company which has excelled in performance during the last 12 months through their activities either within Australia or offshore. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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DUST SUPPRESSION, VENTILATION, FIRE SUPPRESSION

Venting on

Mine ventilation is always a concern, and growing in importance following recent disasters, as Jessica Burke reports.

THE ISSUE T

he importance of ventilation inside mines has become increasingly critical following numerous underground explosions of methane gas and subsequent fires.

The Pike River Coal mine on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island is still too dangerous for rescue teams to enter and recover the bodies of the 29 miners killed there in November last year.

There were suggestions following the explosions that the toxicity levels inside the mine were known to have been high for some time.

The lessons about ventilation are being learnt, and companies are specialising in ensuring mines are safe and ventilated.

Australian company Diversified Mining Services Limited has expanded its presence in the New Zealand market, signing a long-term contract to undertake ventilation works at Solid Energy’s Spring Creek Coal Mine north of

Greymouth on the South Island.

The company will supply labour, materials and machinery to upgrade existing ventilation and install new ventilation control devices, many of which have been developed in conjunction with Spring Creek personnel to suit the unique conditions of the mine.

The mining community in New Zealand is still reeling following the Pike River tragedy, with family and friends of victims desperate for a recovery effort and for explanations about the tragedy.

The two survivors of the Pike River Coal disaster have since told local media they believe a rescue effort could have been made following the first blast on 19 November.

One of the major problems for the two men who did manage to escape was the fact that the only way out of the mine was the same way they came in; through the ventilation shaft that had filled with smoke.

The Pike River underground mine was recognised as a severely gassy coal mine.

In January, mining expert Dave Fieckhert said a mining inspector could have prevented the disaster from occurring, but the system was thrown out in the late 90s.

Fieckhert joined a number of people who recalled the Pike River mine having numerous problems with gas levels and only a couple of weeks prior to the deadly explosions, the underground mine was evacuated.

The move by DMS into the New

Zealand industry will provide dust control and fire suppression, using many products designed in house.

DMS’s chief operating officer said the company hopes the agreement with Solid Energy will be a springboard for further growth in the New Zealand coal mining industry.

• Diversified Mining Services 07 3719 6888 www.dmsgroup.com.au

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DUST SUPPRESSION, VENTILATION, FIRE SUPPRESSION

The dangers of poor ventilation With a number of gassy coal mines igniting in Australia, NZ, the US and Colombia, the issue of proper ventilation is now more important than ever, MiningIQ writes.

On 5 April 2010 an explosion at the Upper Big Branch coal mine, operated in West Virginia by Massey Energy, caused the death of 29 workers.

Kevin G Stricklin, coal administrator for the Mine

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Could adequate ventilation have averted these mining catastrophes?

of ventilation and the amount of gas it let build up.

Garry House, chair of the hazardous areas electrical coordination committee of Standards New Zealand, also told The Press that it was unusual a mine characterised as “gassy” would have internal ventilation provided by electric fans.

“Mining regulations suggest that mine exhaust fans should be external and that was internal. You have an electric motor with methane flowing over it. It’s pretty basic,” House said.

However, Peter Whittall, chief executive of Pike River, maintains every safety precaution was taken to monitor the levels of methane in the mine and the necessary efforts were

made in the early stages to establish how quickly the gas builds up.

Whittall said the mine had “more than enough” ventilation, but added: “On that day, was it preventable? Probably, and we may know what factors led to that eventually and therefore be able to prevent that same occurrence again.”

The report into the reasons behind the blast will not be available until 2012, however the disaster has already pushed to the forefront the issue of how adequately ventilation systems within existing mining operations control the risk of explosion.

• MiningIQ www.miningiq.com

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5 years and does not cover physical damage, abuse or normal wear and tear.

Upper Big Branch

Safety and Health Adminis- gesting it was a large build up tration (MSHA), comment- of natural gas which caused ing after a preliminary report the blast.

“We likewise do not believe was released, explained there are four critical practices needed that coal dust played a meanto minimise the risk of explo- ingful role in the explosion,” sion within an underground Shane Harvey, Massey Energy’s vice president and general mining environment.

These are regular quality counsel, said at the time.

In June, before the publiinspections, proper control of coal dust accumulations, the cation of the report, it launched availability of water and main- proceedings to sue the regutaining an adequate air flow. lator, claiming MSHA had rejected plans The report, from the comcompiled by the Excessive methane pany which MSHA, suggas led to the would have imgested the company had made underground blasts. proved safety within the mine. a number of The lawsuit said decisions failings within ventilation and the management of coal dust. about the best ventilation meIt claimed a spark from a thods to use are better left in shearer being used on the coal the hands of mining companwall was likely to have ignited ies, which it says have the exa small build up of methane pertise to make the decisions. gas, causing the explosion, adding that the water sprayers Pike River Poor ventilation has also been were not working properly.

Adequate ventilation should named as a contributory factor both prevent a build up of in the explosion at Pike River methane and help disperse any mine in New Zealand, which claimed the lives of 29 miners. coal dust acquisitions.

Following the incident in Regulatory debate November 2010, a number Massey, however, debates the of workers were said to have findings from the report, sug- come forward about the level

* This warranty guarantees the operation of the L.E.D components for a period of

E

very mining environment presents its own unique challenges with regard to adequate ventilation; an essential component in ensuring safety of a mine.

As president of the Mine Ventilation Society of South Africa, Dr Bharath Belle says, “the management of significant health and safety hazards both on surface and underground mines is enacted by good ventilation engineering and, if people do not realise the importance of this discipline, no solutions for safety hazards can be found.”

Inadequate ventilation has been named as a possible contributing factor in two of the major mining disasters to rock the industry in just over 12 months – Upper Big Branch and Pike River – leading to much closer scrutiny being placed on regulation in this area.

www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMTYCAPR_11.pdf

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AM.MAY11.PG020.pdf

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SA/NT SPOTLIGHT

A new era for ERA

While market worries have hit uranium, some miners are still forging ahead.

An extremely heavy wet season this year has seen ERA’s Ranger mine’s Pit 3 fill with water.

W

hile it is troubled times for some uranium miners, with the Fukushima nuclear plant on the brink of a meltdown driving people away from the sector, some are rising above the market worries.

One of the nation’s most well known uranium miners – Energy Resources Australia – has announced that it will be pushing ahead with its expansion plans.

Rio Tinto’s Energy Resources Australia (ERA) has stated that it believes there is an additional 34 000 tonnes of high grade uranium oxide underneath its existing open pit at the Ranger mine, near Jabiru in the Northern Territory.

According to the miner, exploratory drilling at its 3 Deeps project is set to increase the life of the mine.

This is despite the world’s fourth largest uranium producer’s suspension on its operations.

Earlier this year, the miner chose to suspend plant processing operations for 12 weeks as a precautionary measure to ensure water levels in its tailings dam remained below its environmentally authorised limits.

ERA chief executive Rob Atkinson explained that due to its target

material, “the Ranger mine is arguably access to the high grade ore at Pit 3 the most regulated and scrutinised until much later this year. mine in Australia.”

On top of this, it saw shares fall He added that “this is entirely after a forecast first half loss of nearly appropriate given the significance of $50 million. our location.”

According to the NT News, ERA However, “at Ranger we had a late supplies uranium oxide to Tepco, finish to the 2009/10 wet season and which is the firm that runs the Fukuthen an early and very heavy onset to shima nuclear power plant. the 2010/11 wet season, to say that Energy Resources itself has also this has been challenging for the team been under siege, with accusations that at ERA would be it may be lax in envian understatement.” The Northern Territory ronmental monitorIt was due to ing during its operminer has faced a number ational suspension. these heavy rains across the region that of hurdles this year.

This worry is the miner recently amplified by the extended the operational suspension fact that parts of its operations are; until late July, to allow the total levels while still separate; surrounded by of water at Ranger to reduce, although Kakadu National park land. this is heavily dependant on rainfall.

The Northern Land Council, the A total of 2 490 millilitres of rain largest Aboriginal organisation in has inundated the mine since Septem- northern Australia, requested ERA ber last year, the wettest period it has guarantees its monitoring processes, seen since recoding 2 527 millilitres with its chief executive Kim Hill telling of rainfall in 2006/07. the Sydney Morning Herald that a This rainfall also flooded out slumping share price may lead the Energy Resources’ Pit 3, essentially miner to look for ways to cut costs. forming a pit lake.

Hill added that the latest situaDue to this, Energy Resources tion at the Ranger mine further proves Australia does not expect to obtain his argument that self-regulation in

the Northern Territory resource sector is not working.

Late last year, fears were raised over pollution leaks from the Ranger mine, and it was accused of allowing 100 000 litres of contaminated water to seep from its tailings dam.

ERA chief Rob Atkinson told Australian Mining at the time that this was not affecting the local area, adding that the dam has a seepage area that is very well defined.

Atkinson stated that “during 2010 several major programmes were undertaken to improve ERA water management at the Ranger site.

“A $9 million project to divert stockpile run-off and seepage water flows was completed and this project led to immediate improvements in water quality ” In 2010 ERA installed seven new pontoon based monitoring stations in Magela creek and an additional three real-time continuous monitoring devices in other locations across the mine site.

While it has faced many hurdles, the miner is still focusing on the future and is currently aiming to extract 15 to 20 000 tonnes of uranium oxide.

ERA is aiming to extract 15 000 to 20 000 tonnes of uranium oxide.

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www.miningaustralia.com.au

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SA/NT SPOTLIGHT

Energy Resources Australia is under pressure to close the Ranger mine in the Kakadu National Park.

Enriching the uranium debate To export or to enrich? Jessica Burke takes a look into the Australian uranium debate.

T

he uranium industry has exploded with debate and controversy about the enrichment, export and safety of nuclear energy and whether it is economically and politically viable as an export or a power source for Australia.

Penny Wong recently warned South Australia against becoming involved in nuclear enrichment.

The senior federal South Australian Minister and former climate change minister told ABC radio that enriching uranium or having power stations is “not the sort of vision I want for South Australia.”

The comments came after Mines Minister Tom Koutsantonis and former Treasurer Kevin Foley called for the expansion of Australia’s nuclear industry.

The massive, BHP-owned Olympic Dam is located in South Australia, and Kout22 May 2011

AustralianMining

santonis said he would be in favour of the government supporting the uranium sector and will argue for a greater emphasis on nuclear power in Australia.

“We’re going to have to start enriching uranium in South Australia, whether that’s in the next 10 years, the next 20 years or the next 50 years, I don’t know,” he said.

“The old adage of digging something out of the ground and sending it offshore has got to change.

BHP would not comment on the uranium market when contacted by Australian Mining, but did provide some details on the expansion of its Olympic Dam project.

BHP expects production of uranium oxide from the upgrade to increase by 14 500 tonnes per annum to 19 000.

The site also produces copper, gold and silver which would all increase dramatic-

ally in production under the proposed expansion.

A BHP spokesperson told Australian Mining the community concerns over the changes have been taken into consideration by the company.

“In December 2010 BHP submitted for government review the final draft of the Supplementary Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) for the expansion of its Olympic Dam mine.

“An adequacy test will now be completed by the Commonwealth, South Australian and Northern Territory Governments to ensure the SEIS meets their stringent requirements,” the spokesperson said.

“The SEIS addresses the environmental, social, cultural and economic issues raised by the individuals, groups and organisations who contributed more than 4 000 submissions on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS).

“The DEIS was open to the public for feedback for a 14 week period from 1 May 2009 to 7 August 2009.

When could uranium be enriched in Australia?

Experts and lobbyists have said it could be some time, if ever, before a uranium enrichment industry is a possibility in Australia.

South Australian Premier Mike Rann has been consistently opposed to nuclear power stations and any nuclear enrichment industry.

Wong said while she disagrees with Koutsantonis’ views on uranium enrichment, she does believe he is asking the right questions about South Australia, in terms of its future and the standard of living.

“But nuclear enrichment is not the way to go,” she said.

"We don't need nuclear power in this country where we have an abundance of

renewable energy resources,” she said.

"This is not the sort of vision we need for this state."

Wong said the federal government has made its position on the nuclear industry clear and it was also clear in opposing any expansion of the nuclear industry.

She said solar and wind powered energy should be considered, as should the potential for geothermal energy.

“We do have these resources and we should use them,” she said.

“We have an underinvestment in the energy sector.”

Wong said the government is continually looking at ways to progress with the resource industry.

“The transition of the energy sector is one of the policy areas that the government and Climate Change and Energy Minister Greg Combet will work through,” she said. www.miningaustralia.com.au

AM.MAY11.PG023.pdf

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SA/NT SPOTLIGHT

Mines Minister Koutsantonis would not advocate using nuclear power in Australia, but has called for a uranium enrichment plant in South Australia.

He said the community should “passionately support the uranium industry”, while Foley believes “Australia should embrace nuclear power.”

Both ministers said the government should welcome debate on the issue, rather than being scared by it, but South Australian Premier Mike Rann says he will not be drawn on the issues.

Should politicians decide Professor Stephen Grano, director of the Institute for Mining and Energy Resources at the University of Adelaide told Australian Mining the debate about nuclear energy is not one exclusively for politicians, but rather should be determined by the industry, importers and investors.

“Why should there be a political debate and not a debate on the benefits?” he asked.

“It’s not only political, it’s economic.

“If a company can see value in enriching uranium at the source through value adding, it will be under our conditions of energy supply costs, our conditions of capital and human costs, our conditions of transport, relative to their enrichment plants already operating overseas.”

Grano sees a future for the Australian uranium market in export, but says enriching uranium for local consumption would not make sense because more energy could be exported in uranium than would be used locally.

Breaking down uranium “Basically, uranium occurs naturally as Uranium 235 and Uranium 238, and they’re both uranium but they have different amounts of neutrons,” he told Australian Mining.

“They’re both radioactive to a degree but not dangerous with normal exposure.

“In yellowcake, which is what we export, there is less that one per cent Uranium 235 which is the uranium you want for nuclear reactions so they www.miningaustralia.com.au

ate baseload electricity with have to enrich it overseas.”

This will mean a tempoHe explained that through minimal greenhouse gas emis- rary shut down of seven of its conversion and enrichment sions. reactors, a fair chunk of its A report by Resource Capi- total of 17. the value of the product is more than doubled but it is a tal Research (RCR) states that Germany will not be the complex chemical and phys- of the 13 reactors on Japan’s only country to impose such ical process involving a number northern coast impacted by measures, with nuclear fleets the quake and tsunami, those around the world expected to of stages.

“There’s lots of energy in- that completely failed were undertake reviews, which will volved and it takes many stages the oldest, which were con- most likely lead to closure – and steps, but if you’ve got structed before 1980. some temporary and some the facilities it is very permanent – if safety easy to convert it to “The old adage of digging something upgrades, or backweapon grade and fits are needed. out of the ground and sending it I believe that is the At this stage, biggest concern,” offshore has got to change” Germany is the only Grano said. country expected to Of the four that were experience extended shut down Uranium enrichment in Australia is opposed by both impacted, at least three will delays, but with a quarter of the ALP’s national platform, remain closed permanently, the world’s reactors over 30 federal government policies the report says, and restart- years old, others may face the and the Federal Resources ing the other reactors which same situation.

Minister Martin Ferguson has shut down automatically when The RCR report cites a played down possibilities of the quake hit will be delayed former US NRC Commisthe ALP altering its stance on due to damage to related facil- sioner, Victor Glinsky, who ities and infrastructure. the issues. stated that older reactors have It goes on to say that Japan been built to lower safety stanIn its April/May journal South Australia Mines and En- has 55 nuclear reactors with dards than required in the ergy chief executive Jason Kuchel annual uranium consumption modern world and that the

BHP’s Olympic Dam open cut mine is undergoing changes.

supported the suggestion of a nuclear debate and said nuclear energy is “an important part of meeting our power requirements into the future.”

Fukushima’s effects In the wake of the earthquake in Japan, nuclear energy is at the forefront of most people’s minds right now as the world is looking for ways to gener-

of between 12 and 13 per cent of the global uranium demand, at 21.3mlbs.

Following the decision to shut down the older reactors due to the risk associated with further weather incidents, Germany has indicated it will temporarily shut down its reactors that were commissioned prior to 1980 to undertake a safety review.

fundamental approach of regulators to nuclear safety will need to be examined, “with a view to taking a stricter approach to enforcement.

Where older plans in the US are concerned, Glinksy said the NRC “must enforce up-to-date safety standards more forcefully” reflecting his view that the nuclear regulators have been “overly accom-

modating to the industry they supervise.”

Nuclear fears Grano told Australian Mining while he understands the concerns of people about nuclear energy, there are regulations in place to prevent it being used for destruction.

“There is the potential for people to use it for weapons and terrorist activities, if you have the know how and equipment, so it is highly regulated for that reason.

The issue with uranium is not only focused on its potential for weapons of mass destruction, but also with the possible contamination of surrounding areas where it is mined.

Energy Resources Australia’s (ERA) Ranger mine, partly in the Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory has halted operations since January and is under pressure from the Aboriginal community to remain closed because the mine is contaminating nearby waterways.

ERA currently produces about 10 per cent of the world’s uranium, but the Mirrar people who own the section of the Kakadu National Park that includes the company’s Ranger mine wants to stop mining.

The mining company suspended operations due to the heavy wet weather, with the Ranger mine’s tailings dam nearing capacity.

It has operated on a lease inside Kakadu for 30 years, and joins other companies fighting battles over land rights.

The ABC reported that just days prior to ERA’s annual general meeting, a scientist previously employed by the company revealed contaminated water leaking from the mine into nearby waterways is a possibility.

During a public forum in Darwin, Mirarr woman Yvonne Margarula, the senior traditional owner of the mine site said the Indigenous community remains opposed to mining, and pointed towards the risk of unsatisfactory water management and possible downstream environmental damage as part of the reason they are against ERA continuing at Ranger.

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AM.MAY11.PG024.pdf

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SA/NT SPOTLIGHT

GEMCO’s plan a Gem A community initiative plan with miner GEMCO has seen a staggering drop in crime and assaults, Rita Mu reports.

A

n alcohol management system that was initiated more than eight years ago by government agencies, local people and manganese miner, BHP Billiton’s Groote Eylandt Mining Company (GEMCO), has led to significant reductions on alcohol-related harm and crime activity on Groote Eylandt in the Northern Territory.

According to the latest figures from the Northern Territory Government, aggravated assaults and antisocial behaviour incidents on the island decreased by 68 per cent and 74 per cent respectively in the five years from 2004 to 2009.

Property crime and commercial break-ins decreased by 68 per cent and 79 per cent respectively.

The Plan, which was initiated in 2002 and eventually passed as law under the Northern Territory Act in 2005, is based on a liquor permit system that enables the members of two licensed clubs in the mining town of Alyangula to purchase and consume alcohol.

24 May 2011

AustralianMining

you’re from one of the other three communities – you can only become a member [of a club in Alyangula] if you are brought into Groote Eylandt to work – regardless whether you’re Indigenous or non-Indigenous.”

Currently, around one-third of the population of Groote Eylandt work at GEMCO, according to Scott Perkins, the mining company’s manager of community relations.

Perkins says that while the permit system was not originally intended to impact the mining community, it has led to positive changes across all the communities on Groote Eylandt.

According to a 2007 report conducted by researchers from Menzies School of Health Research in Darwin, James Cook University, the University of Sydney, and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, regular access to alcohol by the communities on Groote Eylandt was not availBHP Billiton’s GEMCO was part of a community plan to slash crime in the region. able until the opening of the GEMCO in the 1960s.

There are two main Aboriginal addition to Alyangula; Angurugu According to BHP Billiton, cocommunities on Groote Eylandt in and Umbakumba. owner of GEMCO with Anglo AmerAccording to the latest figures ican Corporation, the increasing level from the Remote Area Health Corps, of alcohol consumption on the island around 42 per cent of the popula- following the development of the tion of Groote Eylandt are Indigemanganese mines “strained nous Australians. the relationship between While the Liquor Managethe two parties” for ment Plan was originally some 40 years. launched as a result of A year following concerns about alcothe implementation hol-related harm of the Liquor Manin Aboriginal agement Plan, the communinumber of t i e s , break-ins on Richard the island Preece, fell a stagchief execgering 86 utive officer per cent and of the Aninaggravated dilyakwa Land assaults fell Council – by 67 per cent which represents Groote Eylandt is found – the lowest Groote Eylandt’s off the Northern Territory. level for the previtraditional ownous four years, acers – says the Plan applies to all resicording to figures dents and workers, regardless of their in the 2007 report. racial background.

The number of adults admitted “[The Plan] was a very strong to correctional centres was reduced decision by the community taken by 23 per cent. over a number of years,” Preece told “[The Plan] has had a very posiAustralian Mining. tive impact on everyone,” Preece “The Plan is about physical loca- says. “All communities are much tion – there’s no racial attachment more functional, families are happier to it at all,” he said. and kids are now in a better enviIf you’re living in Alyangula you ronment... It’s more peaceful for can become a member of a club, if everyone.” www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMNORMAY_11.pdf

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AM.MAY11.PG026.pdf

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ENVIRONMENTAL

SURVEY specialists T

raditional methods and technologies have their place; however, it’s innovation that really drives environmental excellence in the mining industry.

The industry needs innovative yet practical solutions to address complex issues, particularly in the biological sphere.

Phoenix director Jarrad Clark says “companies find themselves in a ‘taxonomic bottleneck’ when new species are found during pre-feasibility surveys.

“Invertebrate identifications and impact assessments are often delayed: there are few expert taxonomists and little biological data for new species, so samples are often sent overseas for identification or face long delays with the few experts in WA.” So Phoenix created the Taxonomic Services Unit, which utilises invertebrate taxonomists Dr Volker Framenau and Dr Erich Volschenk.

26 May 2011

AustralianMining

The Unit provides the identification of groups representing an estimated 90-95% of specimens collected in shortrange endemic surveys.

It has developed technical innovations to collate taxonomic and relational data and deliver rapid turnaround for species identification and impact assessment.

“Understanding the undescribed taxa and their unique habitat requirements is only part of the issue,” Volschenk explained.

“This information allows us to develop efficient and complete sampling programs and subsequently effective conservation and impact management strategies for our clients. Within this industry, the value of data is usually limited to the project’s scope.”

Framenau added that, “we designed our relational database to integrate with our hand-held PDAs. It gives us a seamless connection to a

An environmental survey company is removing miners’ ‘taxonomic bottlenecks’.

Environmental surveys can help overcome the delays faced when discovering new species during pre-feasibility studies (Image courtesy of Simon Pynt)

comprehensive range of data such as preloaded species lists, taxon descriptions and SRE status in Western Australia.

“Consequently, we effortlessly generate species lists and gain significant data interpretation and reporting efficiencies that we can pass on to our clients.”

Phoenix has also developed an approach to processing troglobite trap samples.

Currently, the majority of consultants use rudimentary tullgren funnels comprised of heat lamps over plastic funnels to extract invertebrates, but the method is cumbersome, slow and open to cross-contamination.

Phoenix designed a modular extractor that incorporates traps within tullgren funnels.

Each extractor can process 37 samples at once using a

temperature control module that ensures consistent temperature ramping for the preservation of genetic material.

Its design reduced handling and processing times and reduced the risk of damaging specimens.

• Phoenix Environmental Sciences 08 9345 1608 www.phoenixenv.com.au

www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMSANAPR_11.pdf

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AM.MAY11.PG028.pdf

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ENVIRONMENTAL

Open discussion on open pits Rehabilitating open cut pits is more than just filling them with water, Cole Latimer reports.

W

Pit lakes are typically formed after open cut mining operations close down.

28 May 2011

AustralianMining

hen you close a mine, you can’t just down tools and walk away.

You have to plan how to safely shut down the mine and rehabilitate what land you can.

With open cut mining, you have a completely different problem from underground mine closure, for one, what do you now do with the massive hole in the ground?

Many open cut mining operations will leave their pits void at closure and leave them to fill with water via rain or by diverting a water source to empty into the new ‘lake’.

Previously, pit lakes were generally under the radar as they sit below the landform, but the environmental impacts of and potential positive outcomes from these newly formed lakes are now coming under greater analysis.

According to Golder Associates principal environmen-

tal scientist Dr. Clint McCullough, “these pit lakes are under increasing scrutiny from the State Mine Closure Plan Guidelines and may also be problematic to the miner’s sustainability aims,” he told Australian Mining.

In a number of recent studies, McCollough investigated the emerging problem of pit lakes in mine closure.

McCullough explained that in closing a mine there are serious consideration even in the pre-mining stage, during the initial project planning and design, on how the land will be used once mining ceases.

Pit lakes can pose significant health and safety risks to nearby communities through direct contact with contaminated waters or through leaking into groundwater.

The pit lakes can also act as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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ENVIRONMENTAL

There is also the potential for these newly formed pit lakes to negatively impact upon the local ecology by watering feral animals and allowing for the contact of native animals with the contaminated water.

The lakes also present a danger due to it’s high mine walls as well as being typically much deeper than geologically formed natural lakes.

Only recently in Collie in Western Australia, two people drowned at one of these pit lakes, and a mining inspector in Queensland died after being unable to get out.

The state and company’s own mine closure standards show an intention to protect, restore or even create regional water resources to environmental regulations.

But meeting this standard when the landscape has been modified by pit lakes into a wholly new aquatic landscape brings up new challenges to the industry outside of normal regulatory and sustainability closure considerations.

So how do you deal with the issue of waste metals and

Miners must neutralise the PH and the chemicals in the lakes following operational shut down.

material taken from the defunct mine, apart from using them to fill the now useless hole?

Weaving pit lakes into a mine’s rehabilitation and closure plan at an early stage can help to avoid risks by incorporating designs to reduce the environmental liabilities of the lakes such as salinisation and acid and metalliferous drainage.

“You have to ensure that if you can, you neturalise the water,” McCollough stated.

“In our recent health and safety study into these pit lakes, we found that some had a PH level as low as five, McCollough said.

He explained that the metals and acids can leak into the ground water, which then acts as a transport mechanism to move them off the lease.

According to McCollough, the development of pit lakes as planned aquatic ecosystems, such as wetlands, may even offset terrestrial habitat

losses by directly contributing to biodiversity.

But pit lake restoration designs have to sit within current mine closure plans to provide direction for mine managers at every stage of the operation’s development.

However, McCollough told Australian Mining that potential development and rehabilitation of these pit lakes is under the threat of inflexible regulation by the Federal Government.

“Instead of this, companies need to be guided on how to deal with pit lakes and speak with stake holders, instead of set rigid regulations, which could stifle the potential positive end use,” he said.

While some restored pit lake aquatic habitats may be new to the immediate region, such planned ecosystems can still be of local or even national value and significantly contribute to the environment.

He outlined the potential uses of new, clean pit lakes, such as one in Germany which was designed for recreational uses such as hiking.

These new pit lakes can also be used for water skiing and other water activities.

“For example, even after mining stops, the KalgoorlieBoulder Super Pit could still provide massive opportunities for the local community, even if relatively the water level would be quite low,” he said.

McCollough went on to tell Australian Mining that the best examples of pit lake restoration and re-use can often be found in developing countries.

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ENVIRONMENTAL

Heavy metal vegetation New technology is allowing plants to grown on formerly contaminated mine sites.

C

ontamination of the soil by waste heavy metals used to mean a barren landscape.

But a new technology developed by MetalloTek is set to promote plant growth at mine sites that were previously unable to support vegetation due to soil contamination.

According to MetalloTek; which is a joint venture between the University of Queensland and Xstrata Technology; “this technology has the potential to re-vegetate barren mine sites by increasing the soil quality.”

Speaking to Dr. Laurence Rossato, MetalloTek’s lead researcher, she told Australian Mining that this technology has the potential to be a low cost and effective tool for helping miners to effectively rehabilitate their metal contaminated mine sites.

“Rehabilitation is a vital part of the environmental sustainability associated with mining. Our approach has the potential to promote sustainable plant growth on soils contaminated with soluble toxic metals,” Rossato said.

“This technology works as an enhanced soil conditioner, where we mix polymer particles with the contaminated soil where they bind to the solubletoxic metal ions, reducing their concentrations and thereby

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AustralianMining

The technology provides sustainable mine site rehabilitation.

allowing vegetation to grow,” she told Australian Mining.

“MetalloTek’s particles also act as a temporary water reservoir and deliver water to

plants, which is particularly useful in arid and semi arid environments.

“With increased vegetation cover, soil erosion, metal contamination and leakage into the surrounding environment are mitigated,” Rossato explained.

This technology began its early development at the University of Queensland in late 2007 early 2008, and was originally tested with basic germination on soil contaminated with lead, zinc, or copper.

After this, in 2010 MetalloTek then carried out a number of full greenhouse trials of the technology on waste rock from a heavily contaminated mine site.

“The soil we used has high salinity levels and was also was highly acidic, we actu-

ally recorded a PH level of 2.9,” Rossato said.

These results included plant germination, healthy shoot growth and root deve-

lopment on the mine waste in which no vegetation had been grown for 30 years.

The tests were carried out using Australian native plants.

MetalloTek is now looking to carry out pilot field testing of the technology as so far “all of our experiments have been conducted in controlled environments, so now we are looking to test the robustness and sustainability of this product in field conditions,” Rossato said.

Joe Pease, head of Xstrata Technology, stated that this research has the potential to deliver more sustainable ways of dealing with metal contamination in the a mine site’s soil.

“Typically, rehabilitation processes involve capping mine waste with topsoil or trying to establish vegetation on it, which may contain soluble metals that hinder plant growth or may leach into ground water,” Pease said.

This could contribute to the spread of contamination, damaging the local area.

MetalloTek is now focused on bringing in potential sponsors to help the company further develop the technology.

Although this environmental technology is still young, it is hoped that the metal binding attributes will ‘tie up’ metals and allow plants to rehabilitate old mine sites.

Seedlings in heavily contaminated waste soil. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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ENVIRONMENTAL

Gaining closure A strategic approach to site rectification lessens impact.

R

ectification and rehabilitation of contaminated mine sites is a serious issue.

Otek Australia and Arcadis have been working in this area for more than two decades.

The two were recently required to support the effective closure and cleanup of a lead zinc mine site and three copper gold sites.

The first task was to assess the extent of the contamination in the soil or groundwater resulting from the various mining operations such as tailings dams and processing locations.

Once the environmental impact assessment had been completed, risk approaches were conducted on the issues found.

First it had to derive appropriate cleanup criteria for the site closure, which had to stand up to stakeholder scrutiny.

In order to derive the criteria the following approaches were used: literature searches;

Site assessment prior to closure is a must.

risk review; physical chemistry analysis; modelling; bench test works, and verification from reputable authorities.

The risk approach adopted for the mine sites resulted in dramatic cost savings in the handling of impacted metal material compared to the previous criteria in place.

Negotiations with the regulators on the mine sites in this case used the foundation of the National Environmental Protection Measures (NEPM) and Total Recoverable Hydrocarbon (TRH) Risk processes.

The metals focused NEPM resulted in an estimated 60% saving in the movement of metal “impacted soils”.

The TRH risk process allows for management of heavy end hydrocarbon contamination issues typically noted at mine sites.

Results are used as basis for scientifically sound risk assessment using validated models.

TRH Risk approach has similar benefits for Hydrocarbons as the NEPM has for metals, and includes sampling for fractionation and modelling of risks.

In a number of the lead zinc and copper gold mine locations, the TRH risk approach safely allowed some specific sites to have heavier end diesel and waste oil impacted material to be permitted to remain in place.

This enabled structures to remain in-place upon closure, without having to conduct extensive environmental work on roads that had previously been sprayed with diesel/waste oil for dust suppression.

Overall, this strategic approach ensured a means for the company to obtain closure of a site with limited risk that met all regulatory requirements.

• OTEK Australia 03 9525 5155 www.otek.com.au

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AM.MAY11.PG032.pdf

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TRUCKS & TRANSPORT

PROPER TYRE TRACKING “like the Colonel’s secret recipe”

T

he mining industry burns through tyres like few others do, as a sector which requires vehicles for almost all aspects of its operations.

While the sheer volume of tyres required is enormous enough, the price is even larger and clever companies are looking at ways to maintain products and avoid putting a strain on their budget.

A leading tyre supplier says companies need to look at their tyres as investments and treat them accordingly.

Brad Bearman, managing director of Bearman’s Tyres says if companies change their thinking about tyres and not regard them as throwaway items to be wasted, the potential benefits are huge.

His company developed a Tyre Tracker maintenance software system to provide a new way to track the use of tyres, a revolutionary technology to help operators always choose the best time to rotate a tyre.

“However it’s also true that some less expensive Asianmade tyres can give performance rates similar to that of the more well known or more pricey brands- but only if they are maintained properly, meaning they are rotated at appropriate times in the life cycle,” he said.

“On top of that, there is also an illogical fear of retreads because of the wastage often seen on the side of the road – particularly across major highways.

“Re-treads can fail from wear and tear but in many cases the cost of a well maintained re-tread beats that of the Chinese tyre and when done properly will actually outperform it.”

"Re-treading offers undeniable returns – smart, lean management and a much better environmental policy”.

He said using the expensive tyres is beneficial for the standard re-tread they have, 32 May 2011

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Proper tyre care is crucial to the longevity of tyres, and Jessica Burke spoke to an expert tyre tracker about the best way to ensure your tyres are beneficial to your business.

Too many tyres, which can easily be re-treaded, are disposed of each year, according to Bearman.

but with the ability to re-tread a tyre, the life span can be even further extended.

"Even the tyres on the very large long haul vehicles carrying extremely heavy loads can be re-treaded up to three times without losing any performance level at all and it certainly doesn’t make this tyre have any sort of danger.

"It is a fact that you can re-tread a tyre to as much as quadruple its lifespan.

“This means that each and every tyre remains in the workplace instead of becoming prematurely thrown out”.

Bearman said the key to any kind of tyre being valuable and useful to a company is the treatment and attitude people have towards it.

“It’s all about the management – that is the difference between any tyre – bit it cheap or expensive, whether it goes the full distance or ends up in a landfill.”

Bearman’s company was the first to develop technology to track tyres and he told Australian Mining that his 30 years in the job has resulted in an expertise on tyres, vehi-

cles and wear and tear that is like “the Colonel’s secret recipe.”

His Tyre Tracker system was developed to fill a gap in the trucking and transport industry and can save companies time, money and logistical headaches, “because every

also the maintenance in between as well as the consideration of environmental factors.

“I can tailor a rotation schedule, it works on averages of what a truck is doing and alerts tyre people to make an order or get it rotated.

trailer has 12 [tyres] and every truck has 10, so when you multiply that, there’s a lot of tyres to look after.”

Bearman told Australian Mining that unlike some companies, whose tracking systems are little more than spreadsheets, the Bearman Tyre Tracker deals with not only the rotation of the tyres, but

“We can prolong a tyre by a minimum of 25 per cent” He believes in the age-old adage that “you get what you pay for” and believes re-treading good quality tyres will prolong their life and save money in the long run.

“Using re-tread is keeping jobs in Australia, the last company producing tyres in

Australia was Bridgestone but that closed down in November, because it’s cheaper to get imports and the unions made it too difficult.

“The bottom line is if you maintain the tyre you will get the most out of them, but a tyre is a consumable for most people, they think they wear them out so they buy some more, whereas I think buy something decent and it will last you longer.”

He said the problem with tyre production going offshore is that consumers don’t really know what they’re getting.

“Anything Japanese is best, but with everything going offshore to Thailand and China, a company will tell you it’s a good quality tyre and they’ll put their stamp on it, but the compound is completely different to what they used to use in Japan.”

“Chinese tyres come in A, B and C grades and people buy the crap ones because they’re cheap and there’s only a few of the good ones, and often there’s a difference of about $50 between them.

“Drivers don’t know and they think they’re the same.” www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMMMDJUN_10.pdf

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Innovation

through proven experience

MMD remains the proven performer in the field of modern high capacity fully mobile IPCC solutions, having designed and built the two highest capacity track mounted mobile sizers in the world to date; MS1, 8,000 - 10,000TPH of overburden commissioned in 2001.

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Many improvements and design features gained from the 10 years of development and operating experience have been incorporated in the MMD mobile sizer stations which are now ready for full production.

All unnecessary complications have been eliminated to reduce the weight and therefore cost, whilst substantially increasing the production capability. The low profile, low weight design is extremely manoeuvrable enabling continuous movement to be synchronised with the face shovel, offering maximum operating efficiency at production capacities far in excess of that achievable by truck and shovel operations, and with much less impact on the environment.

All of these mobile sizer stations utilise standard MMD apron plate feeders and MMD twin shaft mineral sizers, which have been developed by MMD over the last 30 years, and have a proven track record in a wide range of minerals, from soft and sticky to abrasive hard rock applications including; bauxite, gold, kimberlite, iron ore, copper ore and granite. Visit the MMD website for more information.

10,000TPH Mobile sizer processing overburden

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MMD leads the way with tried and tested, efficient, high capacity, fully mobile successful IPCC solutions

MMD WORLD LEADERS IN MINERAL SIZERS MMD Australia Pty. Ltd. Tel: +61 7 3112 2640 sizers@mmdaus.com.au www.mmdsizers.com

AM.MAY11.PG034.pdf

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TRUCKS & TRANSPORT

Keep on trucking Caterpillar has released the latest articulated mine site trucks

C

aterpillar have launched the latest generation of their articulated trucks.

It has released the new B Series trucks, which include the 735B, providing a 32.7 tonne payload, the 740B with its 39.5 tonne payload and the 740B EJ with an ejector seat and a slightly smaller 38 tonne payload.

Caterpillar is also offering all three models with a diesel engine rating of either Tier2/Stage 2 equivalent or Tier 4/Stage IIIB certified emissions configurations for more environmentally friendly driving on site.

It uses electronic fuel and air supply components which have improved power.

According to Cat, the new engines produce 90% less diesel particulate matter (DPM) and reduce nitrous oxide (NOx) emissions by close to half.

Engine emission controls also include Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) to trap soot.

The articulated trucks now have a gross power of 337kW for the 735B and 365KW for both the 740B and 740B ejector.

34 May 2011

AustralianMining

The new articulated trucks have 90% less diesel particulate matter.

Cat has also improved its six wheel drive system, which now features a fully proportional torque-distribution automatic traction control (ATC) system which eliminates the need for intervention to maintain maximum traction in difficult conditions.

Previously, drivers had to manually engage floor- and dash-mounted switches to bring the cross- and interaxle differential locks into play.

With this ACT system, the truck now automatically and constantly varies the required proportion of lock up on both the cross-axle and interaxle diff locks as conditions underfoot change.

This aids in reducing cycle times and improves productivity while also reducing the potential for system abuse whilst minimising wear and prolonging vehicle life.

The articulated truck also has an upgraded automatic transmission for smooth gear changes and high torque through the gear changes.

Part Throttle Shifting at lower speeds also increases fuel efficiency.

For these B Series trucks, Caterpillar has focused on improving the driver’s environment.

The articulated trucks are now designed and built around the operator and come with an integrated heavy duty bumper and fully enclosed belly guards.

A redesigned instrument cluster and customisable Colour Multi-Purpose Display (CMPD) gives the driver all the information needed such as regeneration status, fuel levels, autolube status, load count and major component status.

It also incorporates a live feed from the rear view camera, which automatically engages as soon as the vehicle reverses. • Caterpillar Australia www.au.cat.com

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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AM.MAY11.PG036.pdf

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TRUCKS & TRANSPORT

Harder, better, safer Roll over protection systems are making a greater impact on site, Cole Latimer reports.

T

he safety cycle is one that continually moves forward.

Moving in line with it is critical, especially on a minesite where the potential for injury is high.

And one area that is paramount on site is vehicle safety, because if you can’t get there safely you may not get there.

Adding to this safer push on site, Minecorp has developed a bolt on tailored range of internal safety cell roll over protection systems (ROPS) for light vehicles with side curtain airbag systems.

Speaking to Minecorp founder and director Mark Lacey, he told Australian Mining that this development is a major step forward in light vehicle safety, and particularly good timing.

Most roll over protection systems are custom designed and fitted either internally or externally to standard mine ready light vehicles such as Toyota Landcruisers post production.

Up until this purpose designed technology was introduced, internal roll over protection systems were not available for light vehicles with side curtain airbags.

Instead, bulky external

The internal roll over protection system previously obstructed the deployment of side airbags.

systems or ones that obstructed the side curtain airbags from fully deploying were all that was available.

These side curtain airbags are designed to protect the driver and passengers from coming out of their seats and their ribs from being broken in an accident while also providing lumbar and thoracic vertebrae support, but it does not stop the roof from crushing in if the car rolls over.

“Previously, the roll cage would interfere with the side curtain airbags deploying, so people would not install ROPS over the airbags as they were misled by their vehicles NCAP safety rating into thinking that the car is much safer than it is” Lacey told Australian Mining.

“But when vehicles pass the NCAP five star rating system there is no requirement to make the roof strong

NCAP safety ratings don’t take into account roof strength in the case of a vehicle roll over.

36 May 2011

AustralianMining

and protect against crush, so if a car rolls over twice or more there is a good chance someone will die.

“Increasing the roof strength is critical for light mine site vehicles.”

Recently Toyota released side curtain airbags in all of its Prado 200 Series Landcruisers and Hilux models to protect the occupants, and while these have been considered effective in reducing passenger deaths by close to a third, the air bags systems pose serious challenges for manufacturers of roll over protection systems.

Due to the placement of the side curtain airbags within the vehicle, it has not been possible to fit a roll over protection system without compromising the deployment of the airbags, essentially rendering the vehicle unsafe for use in high risk environments such as a mine site.

So as more light vehicles entered the mine site with side curtain air bags installed as a standard feature, Minecorp saw a serious issue that was not being addressed.

“We had to invest heavily in CNC and it took time to effectively bring together ROPS

and the side curtain airbags without one impeding the other,” Lacey said.

Prior to Minecorp’s development “people kept trying to do it the old way and there was no one who was globally manufacturing any consistent internal system,” he said.

The roll over protection had to not only protect the enclosed cabin space during accidents, but also had to allow for full and proper airbag systems deployment throughout the car.

To overcome this glaring issue, Minecorp developed the Safety Cell ROPS, which are computer drawn and CNC bent, and offer a versatility that has not existed before.

“It was difficult enough to install an internal ROPS with these airbags, which required a whole new level of engineering, but a real problem faced is convincing people that the roll over protection systems are necessary in these light vehicles.

“Rollovers account for up to 34% of all fatalities involving four wheel drives in Australia alone,” he said.

“On top of this, studies confirm a direct correlation between roof crush and occupant injury.”

He said that to date, there are very few instances of cars rolling over multiple times and the passengers walking away unharmed.

“So why people are still seeing the installation of safety equipment, such as ROPS, as a nuisance and something that is undertaken only to avoid litigation is a mystery,” Lacey told Australian Mining.

“We’ve seen instances where plastic pipes and exhaust pipes wrapped in substantial padding are used as a gate pass for ROPS safety checks.

“But with a new national code of practice set to go live in July this year, there will now be a much tougher stance on the quality and manufacturing process of roll over protection systems,” he said. www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMSARFEB_11.pdf

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AM.MAY11.PG038.pdf

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TRUCKS & TRANSPORT

Under pressure A new high pressure air tank is providing more options for light mine vehicles.

C

ompressed air systems are found throughout the mining industry. However, one area they were previously lacking was in a lot of light vehicles which had difficulty fitting a tank based air system or had only a small one at best.

Not any more.

Rockford Industrial has now launched a 260 psi compressed air system that will allow 4x4 and other vehicles to increase their air storage capacity by up to 71% without having to change their tank space.

Older systems and tanks had previously been limited to 150 psi.

On top of this, vehicles that had problems with finding the space to fit a conventional tank based air system can now fit the high pressure space saver system.

This increase of operating pressure also increases the Top End Energy Level (TEEL) by 300%, according to Rockford Industrial’s Peter Walker.

It also introduces the possibility of using compressed air for applications that were not previously consid-

The high pressure air tanks allow for compressed air applications on mine site light vehicles such as using air tools and vehicle jacks.

ered possible such as air tools and vehicle jacks.

The initial series of tanks are small 100mm diameter tanks with several imperial connections for air in feed

and out feed as well as a water drain connection.

These tanks feature low profile legs, reducing their under floor profile (UFP); further reducing the chance of bottoming out in rough terrain.

Rockford’s high pressure tanks also allow the vehicle’s operators to solve two of the major problems that are created when using compressed air – heat and water.

All industrial compressed air systems produce water, and failure to take this into account when implementing air pressure system in a vehicle will see all of your system’s down stream equipment rust or rupture.

This can destroy metal tanks in short order, as well as any other metal components in the system that are not designed to deal with water.

Heat – the other by-product of compressing air – is produced as an

automatic consequence of changing the air pressure.

But just like the water, this is of little use as firstly, it takes up more space and creates an artificially high pressure that subsides when the air is allowed to cool naturally which reduces the pressure and volume; secondly it applies high temperature air to everything in the downstream line, melting seals, hoses, and anything synthetic as well as providing a hazard for anyone who catches it on bare skin.

The solution is to do a single thing post compressor that will solve two problems – remove the heat.

In turn this will allow the water to condense and fall into a liquid state.

The air from compressors has to be run through some form of heat sink,radiator, or heat transfer device.

Most 4x4 vehicles don’t have a large amount of spare space to fit this kind of equipment, but with these much smaller tanks, there is now the potential to fit one.

Or the operator can improvise by using the body of the vehicle itself, with its large exposed metal surface, to dissipate heat.

Outlet lines of copper in contact with the underside or inside of the wheel well, or alloy blocks bolted to the outside of the wheel wells will radiate the heat.

The final consideration in fitting industrial is a lubrication system for the air itself.

However, this depends on the different functions that are to be performed in the field.

• Rockford Industrial Peter Walker 0450 117 360 rsdc_industrial@yahoo.co.uk

A PTO drive.

38 May 2011

AustralianMining

www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMBRIMAY_11.pdf

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AM

Complete tyre and wheel safety solutions

At Bridgestone Earthmover Tyres safety is our prime focus.

At all times we are working on controlling the risks involved in the servicing, maintenance, inspection and repair of Off the Road tyres and wheel assemblies.

Our qualified service personnel are trained beyond national standards and our safety procedures comply with industry standards.

Our equipment is modern and highly developed to ensure that it is fit for purpose.

Our involvement with the world’s leading tyre (Bridgestone) and wheel manufacturer (Topy) ensure the latest technologies, products and procedures are embraced for the safety of everyone.

Deal direct with Bridgestone: Email sales@bsem.com.au or Freecall 1800 114 040

www.bridgestone-earthmover.com.au

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COMMUNICATIONS

What’s on the RADIO

The installation of a massive ATEX radio network is another step forward for digital communications in Australia, Australian Mining reports.

The Queensland gas Corporation required an enormous, gas environment safe, communications network for its LNG project.

C

ommunicating on a loud and dangerous workplace is an every day challenge in the resources industry.

And the challenge only increases on sites with potentially explosives atmospheres such as coal mines and gas processing plants.

So when the Queensland Gas Corporation (QGC) needed a commu-

40 May 2011

AustralianMining

nications network for its liquefied natural gas (LNG) project in the sunshine state’s south, it needed a unique system.

It turned to Motorola Solutions, which is providing a complete digital radio communications network worth just over $14 million.

Speaking to Motorola’s managing director Gary Starr, he told Australian Mining that it is suppling

a massive radio system “connected, via a microwave network, to the central processing plant in the gas fields, with base stations at each of the processing plants, the field compression stations and the main line valve stations, as well as an end-to-end, voice and location based service via GPS.” Motorola also supplied a fully integrated TETRA radio system.

Starr explained that there are essentially two global standards for radio systems that are safe for operations in critical environments.

These are TETRA and P25.

He said that Motorola installed TETRA due to its greater frequency availability, its lower power needs and that fact it comes as an ATEX radio, and while P25 is intrinsically safe, the

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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COMMUNICATIONS

Safe Efficient Primary Blade Change Out in Minutes

The network had to withstand the rigours of the site’s rugged daily environment.

ATEX standard for radios is much higher and safer.

The microwave and TETRA infrastructure it is installing will include vehicle terminals with GPS tracking, hand held terminals, desk terminals, a dispatcher control, voice recorders and battery chargers.

With constant communication and the ability to always remain in contact such a critical factor, Starr said “the entire network is built to be redundant, so there is always a back up of parts in anything fails or is damaged.”

The construction of the 28-site radio network starts this year and more than 3000 radios – including the intrinsically safe certified digital radio handsets operating in the 450 to 470 MHz bands – will be deployed during the construction and operation phase.

He explained that the handheld ATEX radios are built to withstand the tough environments that are found in the resources industries.

“The radios going to these sites are extremely rugged and designed to withstand drops onto concrete, being splashed by water, are dust proof and can even deal with being driven over,” Starr told Australian Mining.

Motorola Solution’s Gary Starr. www.miningaustralia.com.au

One of the more important aspects in the construction of radios is the ‘human factor’ – its ease of use in day to day environments as well as in stressful environs.

“We spent time with psychologists and designers to make sure these phones are easy to use in moments of high stress, for instance the emergency button is located at the base of the aerial so in a high stress situation the user just needs to run their hand down the aerial to get help,” he said.

On top of this, the radios also have colour screens with GPS built in.

“Having this GPS system built in is really useful as it means they can now track workers on site or in remote locations and importantly find them when they’ve pressed the emergency button,” Starr told Australian Mining.

“This allows for better management of human assets.”

Operators can also track vehicle speed and direction, as well as collect vehicle diagnostic data.

The installation of this system is part of a greater uptake of digital communication networks throughout the Australian resources industry.

“The new digital systems are being used by many of the leaders in the industry, and with the digital networks, it’s a lot easier to now plug in other work applications, such as linking it to a fleet management system in the case of GPS,” he said.

“New mines are going digitised as the cost of digital technology has dropped down significantly, so it is much more cost efficient then before.

“However, it is unlikely we will see analogue technology disappear any time soon, but it is really reducing in terms of its foot print in the country,” Starr said.

Planned maintenance shutdowns of conveyor belts are necessary to achieve effective and continual bulk handling operations. However, while conveyors are down production time is lost so it important to safely and quickly perform blade change outs to assure is optimum cleaning efficiency.

ESS has pioneered developments that provide safe and effective maintenance of our range of Durt Tracker Primary Conveyor Belt Cleaners.

The patented ‘KeySafe’ System includes a blade withdrawal tool that is inserted into the KeySafe slot in the moulded urethane blade which allows blade removal and replacement from outside the conveyor chute.

This means that reduction or elimination of confined space and manual handling risks, while reducing the time taken to remove and replace the blade.

So if your committed to reducing and eliminating the risk of hazards around conveyor belts, visit our website to register your interest.

• Motorola Solutions Australia 03 9847 7500 www.motorolasolutions.com AustralianMining

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PRODUCT FOCUS: SAFETY

Underground FLOODING prevention Recent incidents of water ingress at underground mines in Queensland and New South Wales have underscored the role of engineered water-retaining bulkheads and dam walls as part of a safer water management plan.

A

s underground mines across Australia recover from the impact of recent rainfall and subsequent flood levels, safety authorities are now warning mine operators to consider the potential impact of water ingress from surface accumulations, directly or via aquifers, in volumes miners have not experienced before.

This was recently demonstrated in Queensland, where a coal mine nearly had a fatal accident after water gushed into an underground mine, forcing three miners to climb nearby equipment to escape.

While recommended water management strategies include the installation of water-retaining bulkheads and dam walls, a range of variables needs to be considered to determine the underground structural design parameters, particularly in addressing unknown potential conditions.

Following the development of a water-resistant, single application shotblast product, Aquacrete’s mine support team, in co-operation with independent structural engineers, PB, has developed a design basis that has been applied in the construction of water-retaining structures at underground mines around Australia.

“Our observations and experiences in designing waterretaining structures with WetRepel consistently confirm that the most significant factors influencing bulkhead performance are the interface of the bulkhead with the surrounding strata as well as the poten42 May 2011

AustralianMining

tial magnitude of the hydraulic pressure to which they may be subjected,” Michael Salu, technical executive for PB Energy, The roof, floor and ribs of underground tunnels need to be assessed during shotcreting.

Mining and Industry said.

To determine the maximum overpressure require- engineering calculations, a the strata/bulkhead interface. past five years, with consisment, mines need to consider bulkhead can be designed to “This is due, not only to tent results. not only the water to be stored maximise effectiveness in the fact that water pressure As mines address changes in the impoundment behind addressing a range of under- is not always constant, but to their operational environthe bulkhead, but also to ground conditions,” Salu said. also because sustained water ments, it is important that evaluate potential additional As sustained water pres- pressure over a period of time unknown conditions be caresources of water. sure poses the risk of leakage can lead to softening of the fully considered.

Mines currently affected through fractures and strata surrounding strata.

While the occurrence of by increased rainfall and flood surrounding the bulkhead, The effect of sustained underground mining incidents conditions need to consider the strata in the immediate water or rain over a period directly attributable to inunall potential sources of surface roof, floor and ribs needs to of time effecting a coal mine dations has been limited in water that could find was shown in Victo- the past, engineered design of their way into the Most known bulkhead failures have ria, where the Princes bulkheads to withstand susunderground mining saw a par- tained and significant water been through the surrounding strata Highway environment. tial collapse in the pressure is now vital.

They also need or along the bulkhead interface.

Gippsland region “Our technical services to consider the imafter water under- team has subjected our propact of overlying or underly- be assessed in detail and should mined an underground mine. ducts to stringent testing proing adjacent mine operations, include all strata that can be “Wet-Repel’s ability to tocols over the years. In addiany nearby infrastructure and affected by a change in hydro- bond well to hard rock and tion to live blast testing, our their water safety manage- logic conditions. coal, as well as its low water shotblast products have ment plans.

According to Aquacrete permeability and high compres- undergone tests to determine “While it may be difficult managing director, John Whit- sive strength, has certainly compressive strength, overto establish the impact of field, selecting a product that demonstrated the impact that pressure ratings, diffusivity unknown conditions, it is can be keyed into the surround- these factors have on long- properties and water permeessential in determining the ing mine geology is of criti- term structural integrity of ability ratings. bulkhead design to ensure cal importance. bulkheads.

“As our clients are able long-term structural integrity.

“Most known bulkhead According to Whitfield, to obtain independent engi“With an appropriate failures have been through it has been put to the test in neering design and certificafactor of safety applied to the the surrounding strata or along underground mines for the tion for their installations, they have the assurance of knowing that their bulkheads are designed to address their individual site conditions – a feature that has become increasingly important with the changes in mine environments,” Whitfield said.

Ensuring the bulkhead has a low water permeability is critical in underground mine tunnels.

• Aquacrete Greg Kay 0438 668 051 gregk@aquacrete.com.au www.aquacrete.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

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Inhale, exhale Breathing training can help increase productivity on site.

B

reathing. It’s automatic, you do it without even thinking about it.

Just one of the many things people do reflexively.

Too bad most of us are doing it wrong.

Take a deep breath in – did your chest move out and shoulders up?

If they did, then you aren’t breathing right and aren’t getting enough oxygen into your blood stream, which in turn means you will be tiring yourself out quicker and doing a less efficient job.

And a tired miner on

The Powerbreathe system.

NEW

site can be a dangerous thing; feeling short of breath and wrung out is bad enough on an open cut mine, but what about for underground miners?

Working in an environment where oxygen is not the most abundant material only exacerbates this fairly unrecognised problem.

Effective ventilation throughout an underground mine is one way to ensure enough oxygen is making its way into the tunnels, but that is only half the battle.

If, as typically is found in most underground coal mines, the air is heavy with dust and diesel particulate matter, then having weak lungs intensifies the problem.

And in coal mines, this is even worse, with the dust in the air liable to cause coal miners’ pneumoconiosis or black lung disease after long periods of exposure.

If you are not taking oxygen in properly you are hamstringing yourself.

So how can you deal with this issue?

Breathing training.

To aid in this, HaB Oceania

has released the Powerbreathe system to increase lung capacity and fitness.

It uses the principle of resistance training – just like weight training for your lungs – to make your lung muscles work harder as you inhale and exhale.

The trainer works by increasing the uptake of oxygen in the cells, which makes it easier to work in less oxygen rich environments.

Unsure of how well it could work, we tested it on member of the Australian Mining team, Anthony, who runs professionally.

He explained that “after a few weeks of using it, I’ve definitely noticed a difference, and although it works it takes time. It’s not an instant thing.

“What made a difference for me was the ability to choose the settings, for instance the hard setting is very difficult and tiring to use, but it does help to build up my breath strength.”

Anthony went on to say that “essentially I’ve been exercising my lungs but like most things, if you’re looking to see a lasting result it would probably have to be part of a regular training regime.”

According to HaB Oceania,

Underground mines often have high levels of diesel particulates.

it should be used twice a day for approximately 30 breaths per session, taking four minutes in total.

For areas where the air would not be as clean, it is also available with filters de-

signed to clean the air used for breath training.

• HaB Oceania 1800 000 180 info@hacoceania.com.au www.haboceania.com.au

Cirlock Lockout / Tagout Equipment since 1992

Group Lock Box The Next Generation!

SIMPLE - EFFECTIVE - EASY TO USE

Sturdy aluminium construction Clear front sliding cover Room for procedures in 3 places Lockout holes for 20 padlocks Hooks inside to store up to 24 padlocks Part No: GLB-4-RED Suitable for wall mounting, also (locks not included) has carry handle THE MOST VERSATILE LOCK BOX EVER MADE! www.cirlock.com.au 44 May 2011

AustralianMining

ph 07 5445 2910

e: lockout@cirlock.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

AD_AMBONMAY_11.pdf

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ORESOME EFFICIENCY • SAVINGS • QUALITY

HD DRIVES are assembled locally by experienced technicians, providing TRULY AWESOME EFFICIENCIES & SAVINGS Our solutions orientated engineers are constantly endeavouring to seek out innovative gearmotor

BON © BERLET #5565

designs within our specialised Drive Service Centre. As you well know perseverance pays off.

We are proud to present the HDO and its modular combinations, from the customised HD Drive Power Packs, to our NEW smarter HD Alignment Free Drives (which are capable of further reducing your drive costs) are more than perfect for your tough, demanding industrial mining needs.

With extensive warehoused stock levels and the fastest deliveries in Australasia we also have a highly qualified team of technicians, safe-guarding assembly and quality control. All is united to provide second-to-none, quick deliveries, service and 24/7 support.

PHONE 1300 656 757 Guaranteed Quality from “The Gearmotor Specialists”

www.bonfiglioli.com.au

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Snoozing safely The best workers are alert and awake, doing their jobs efficiently, but some miners have underlying problems that can lead to big problems, as Jessica Burke reports.

M

ine workers do their job each day, faced with the possibility that something could go terribly wrong and they could be permanently injured, or killed.

While many jobs require a high level of attention and care, mining is definitely one where the focus and wellbeing of it workers are one of its most crucial issues.

One of the most pressing concerns for mine staff working hard for solid 10 or 12 hour shifts is fatigue caused by the long hours.

The concerns about workers being too tired to do their work properly or drive themselves home from work has been increasing lately, not least amongst campaigners against fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) contracts.

The other pressing matter is that many mine workers fit into another category; that of the prime candidate for sleep apnoea, as Stuart Baulk, a specialist in fatigue risk management told Australian Mining.

“We know something like five to 10 per cent of the population have sleep apnoea, but we think for people in professions like truck driving it’s higher, more like 20 to 30 per cent.

“Sleep apnoea is more likely to effect males 40 or over, and they are more likely to have it if they are overweight, particularly around the neck, because that puts more pressure on your neck when you sleep,” he said.

Baulk went on to explain that the

Overworking and fatigue in the mining industry can have fatal results.

effects of fatigue are complex and ability to do their job well.” varied for people in all sectors, particHe said there is a silent problem ularly one such as mining. facing mine workers, with many fearing “It massively impacts from both that if they speak up they could be ends of the spectrum, if someone is damaging their career and livelihood. tired and they fall “The focus asleep that can we have for minMiners are a prime candidate cause an accident; ing, road and rail cause a fire; kill for suffering sleep apnoea. is undiagnosed people. sleep disorders, “That’s the worst case scenario, which are a big risk, as we know from but it goes all the way down to little research around the world, including accidents and mistakes caused by Australia.” fatigue,” he added.

“Another important issue is that “Someone being sleepy can not if you drive a truck or work in a mine, just make them fall asleep and have you would be worried about it because an accident, it also affects their you wouldn’t know how to get it

treated, how much it would cost and what it would entail.

“Truck drivers come to me worried about losing their jobs but most of the time they won’t.”

He said much of the hesitation miners have about seeking advice is their fear that the process of getting screened and being provided treatment will mean they may have to take up to three months off from work, drastically impacting their livelihood.

But Baulk’s company has a solution which can test people and if necessary, provide treatment options within a week.

While little research has been done in Australia on the problem, tests in the United States showed that workers who were screened and provided with treatment options were more productive in their jobs and made fewer mistakes, which in turn brought the insurance rates for the site down.

Baulk is campaigning for more research to be done on the issue in Australia, and a compulsory fatigue management plan introduced for all industries at risk.

He believes the best solution for managing fatigue is to be proactive.

“It might not happen for 12 or 19 months, but the best types of safety management are the proactive ones, being prepared for it before, not reacting afterwards.

“You don’t want to just leave it until something happens.”

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AD_AMMSAMAY_11.pdf

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In 1914, two men had a vision. Our founders decided that, never again should anyone pay with their lives, due to the lack of safety precautions.

MISSION To see to it that men and women may work in safety and that they, their families and their communities may live in health throughout the world.

MSA is leading the way in portable gas detection and the Altair® family of gas detectors meets all your instrument needs head on!

With the Altair® Single-Gas Detector, MSA sets a new market standard by offering over two years of maintenance-free performance (depending on alarm minutes used). These long-life cost-effective single-gas detectors offer outstanding dust and water protection and feature a distinct triple alarm system.

The Altair® Pro Single-Gas Detector has all the features of the standard single-gas detector but with added features and functionality. Accurately measuring the gas concentration or percent oxygen this is then displayed on the large, clear, backlit LCD screen. The Altair® Pro Single-Gas Detector has event-logging and data-logging capabilities so you can check the instrument at any time for any event where it’s used.

The Altair® 4 Multigas Detector is the only portable gas detector with an optional MotionAlert™ feature if a user should become disabled due to unforeseen hazards. When enabled, the MotionalAlert™ feature will activate if the instrument does not detect motion for 30 seconds, and is ideal for confined space entry applications. The InstantAlert™ feature also allows users to manually alert others to a potentially hazardous situation.

The real strength of the Altair® 4X Multigas Detector comes from new sensor technology. MSA XCell™ sensors have a typical life of more than four years, double the industry average, and are engineered using MSA’s proprietary application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) design. MSA XCell™ sensors are a breakthrough in chemical and mechanical sensor design, enabling faster response and span calibration times.

The new Altair® 5 Multigas Detector raises the bar to a whole new level of detection. With the 6 gas capability it lets you test for more hazards in less time. This detector has more than 18 pre-programmed languages which are suitable for global applications. The patented PulseCheck® Pump is integrated to ensure optimum pump performance and the lithium-ion rechargable battery provides enough runtime to cover double shifts. The 2-year comprehensive warranty for standard models helps to protect your investment.

Altair® Single-Gas Detectors Altair® Pro Single-Gas Detectors

MSA (Aust.) Pty. Limited 137 Gilba Road, GIRRAWEEN NSW 2146 Customer Service No: 1300 728 672 Email: www.msa.net.au

Altair® 4 Multigas Detectors

MSA New Zealand The Gate, Unit E, 373 Neilson Street Onehunga, Auckland, New Zealand Customer Service No: 0800 441 335 Email: www.msa.net.au

Altair® 4X Multigas Detectors

Altair® 5 Multigas Detectors

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Underground safe scissor lifts

Less confusion, less product

OPTIMUM Handling Solutions have supplied Palevator spring scissor lifts for underground mining applications.

The Pal-evator scissor lifts were suitable for the Suitable for Class 1, Zone 1.

Class 1, Zone 1 application as there are no motors or electrical components.

The platform of the scissor lifts include a rotating turntable, enabling the operator to unstack pallets of explosives safely. These robust scissor lifts are protected from underground moisture by their hot dipped galvanised finish.

The Optimum Handling Solutions Pal-evators are also available in stainless steel or powder coated finish.

In standard configuration these scissor lifts can be adjusted to handle pallet weights from 250 to 1200Kg. The units can also be supplied to handle 2000Kg loads.

• Optimum Group 1800 066 008 sales@optimumgroup.com.au www.optimumgroup.com.au

ENWARE has unveiled its broad spectrum toxic chemical response kit which they say will end potential confusion and delay in responding to a wide range of hazardous chemical spills and vapours leaks in laboratories, including commercial, industrial, Toxic chemical response kits. scientific, educational and medical facilities.

FAST-ACT (First Applied Sorbent Treatment – Against Chemical Threats) is a non-corrosive and environmentally friendly sorbent that is easy to maintain and use. It does not require any premixing and has no limited shelf life.

“FAST-ACT eliminates hesitation and delay in emergencies because users don’t have to which treatment to use,” Enware’s Scott Whittaker said. The treatment is so effective over a wide range of potentially hazardous substances and effectively replaces as many as five different treatments that would otherwise be required and was originally developed for the military to counter Chemical Warfare Agents and CWAs. FAST-ACT has been successfully trialled on hydrofluoric acid at the Australian National University to complement its successful use on the most toxic industrial chemicals (TICs) and toxic industrial materials (TIMs) in the market.

• Enware www.enware.com

Mining harnesses MILLER by Sperian has launched the AMAX.2 Miners and Rescue full body harness. The harness is engineered to be used in mining and rescue applications and now features a removable miner’s equipment belt.

The AMAX.2 has been designed to carry emergency breathing apparatus, while the removable miner;s equipment belt incorporates a batter and self rescuer strap.

For increased comfort, the self rescue units can now be worn Fall arrest equipment. at the side instead of the back. It features a frontal and rear dorsal fall-arrest D-ring and D-ring extension, confined space loops, extra wide removable shoulder pads as well as padded leg straps.

The Miners & Rescue harness also comes with moisture absorbing 3D mesh panels for enhanced stability and breathability in warm weather.

AMAX.2 is fully adjustable at the waist and shoulder, with aluminium quick connect buckles on the leg straps for faster donning. It is built using heavy duty lightweight 43 mm polyester webbing for improved durability and strength.

Sperian’s latest harness also features high contrasting colours on all load bearing sew patterns for easy harness inspection and maintenance.

• Sperian 1300 139 166 www.sperian.com

48 May 2011

AustralianMining

Haul road safety RPS Industries have released self correcting Haul Road Edge Marker Post for open cut mine sites. The posts are fitted with specially designed flexi-tuff hinge system that allows the road markers to instantly recover themselves back to their original position after being hit or completely run over by haul road trucks.

The post hinge assembly must be securely mounted in the ground alongside the haul road boundary, although only the rubber hinge and the post are above the ground. It can use galvanised steel ground anchors driven into the soil with either an air or electric jackhammer for quick and easy installation.

The edge marker post comes in a variety of different reflective delineation markers from simple stick on types to fully re-useable/ washable pocket socks in a number of different colours. They can also come with printed notations such as ‘Blast Area’, ‘Slow Down’ and ‘Risk Assessment’ etc. Haul Road Edge Marker Posts are designed and built in Australia.

• RPS Industries 1800 255 943 www.rpsindustries.com.au

Comes with hinges.

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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Mine safety chart Pro-Visual have released the 2011 Mine Safety Guide to Workplace Safety chart.

E

very year the mining industry redefines safety on site. What was considered a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;safeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; working place fifty years ago would be shut down nowadays.

This constantly progressing safety standard is one of the reasons why the Australian mining industry is one of the safest in the world.

To keep miners informed and aware of the latest safety issues on site, Pro-Visual Publishing has released this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edition of the Mining Industry Guide to Workplace Safety chart.

According to Pro-Visual, the guide aims to inform and educate those who work on mines and in the sector about health and safety issues surrounding their industry.

This latest edition of the mining safety chart includes critical information regarding health management plans and gives instructions on what is required to implement one on site.

The chart also gives numerous examples of common hazards likely to be addressed in a formulating a mining health management plan.

The latest safety guide looks at health management plans for mine sites.

On top of this, the guide also contains important safety information for miners commuting to and from the site, which has drawn increased focus following the deaths of two

drive in drive out coal miners in Queensland who crashed their cars due to work site fatigue.

Following these accidents the Central Queensland coroner Annette Hen-

nessy called for sweeping changes in how the mining industry handles fatigue.

Excessive commuting time to and from work, combined with the extended working hours typically seen in the mining industry reduces the time available for adequate sleep and can seriously increase the levels of worker fatigue.

Therefore, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important for miners to be aware of the dangers and use fatigue management strategies, such as those outlines in the guide, when commuting to the site.

According to a study published in 2007 by Caterpillar Global Mining, Viewpoint: Perspectives on modern mining, up to 65% of truck haulage accidents in surface mining operations are directly related to operator fatigue.

The safety guide also covers other critical mining issues such as fire fighting as well as topics such as drug and alcohol policies. â&#x20AC;˘ Pro-Visual Publishing 02 8272 2611 marketing@provisual.com.au www.provisual.com.au

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www.qmw.com.au 50 May 2011

AustralianMining

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Premium backhoes

Lower emission exhaust systems

KOMATSU Australia has released a premium specification version of its WB97R-5EO backhoe Options now come as standard. called the ‘Platinum’ version. This premium spec backhoe incorporates what were previously options as factory standard. Its premium-spec features include: two-way attachments piping, allowing a complete range of attachments, such as hammers, augers, compaction plates, profilers and others to be fitted with no additional modifications; hydraulic quick hitch; hose-burst protection valves on the backhoe, loader and stabiliser hydraulic lines, to protect workers and operators in the event of a hose failure; full hydraulic sideshift; and a four-in-one bucket. On top of this, it is powered by a 74kW Tier III compliant Komatsu S4D104E-3 diesel engine and uses a HydrauMind closed centre PPC hydraulic system. All controls are joystick-operated for low-effort operation, are within easy reach of the operator, and the seat/control positions can be easily adjusted to suit any operator’s individual preferences. On the backhoe unit, new features include the S-shaped excavator-style boom and hydraulic sideshift. An electro-hydraulic differential lock, combined with Komatsu heavy duty axles provides increased traction and efficiency in poor underfoot conditions. The backhoe has an operating weight of 7.56 tonnes; a digging depth of 5.29 metres; a maximum dump height of 4.39 metres; a bucket breakout force of 6100 kgf with an arm breakout of 4000kgf.

• Komatsu Australia 1800 566 287 info@komatsu.com.au www.komatsu.com.au

SILVAN Australia has released the Selective Catalytic Reduction technology, an engine exhaust system that lowers diesel fuel emissions. The technology comes on the back of the new Australian emissions standard (ADR80/03) which complies with the Euro 5 standard, and limits the quantity of Uses aqueous urea. nitrogen oxides and particulate matter that is emitted into the atmosphere by heavy vehicles with a gross vehicle mass of more than 4.5 tonnes. The exhaust system uses a 32% Aqueous Urea solution which is added to the diesel fuel to treat the emissions. The Urea solution (AUS32/DEF) is referred to under a number of trade names which are AdBlue, NoNOX and Air1. The new system requires a separate storage tank on a vehicle where AUS32 is stored and sprayed directly into an additional catalyser in the exhaust where the pollutant exhaust gases are converted into safe atmospheric gases. The approximate consumption rate is five litres of AUS32 to every 100 litres of diesel used.

AUS32 is supplied by a number of options including a bulk tanker delivery, in 1000 litre IBC containers, 200litre drums and 10 litre emergency containers.

Known as the Selecta Blue Range the transfer equipment is sourced from the Suzzara Blue range of Piusi, the Italian based company that is a world leader in fluid handling solutions. The Selecta Blue products are all made from AUS32 compatible materials and the range includes electric and hand pumps, hose reels and hoses, flow meters, and monitoring solutions, dispensing nozzles, fittings and connectors to suit both drums and IBC containers of AUS32.

• Silvan Australia www.silvan.com.au

Excavator simulator joysticks Has triple axis config.

52 May 2011

CH Products is highlighting its latest HFX Series IV USB hydraulic excavator simulator joysticks.

The HFX Series IV joystick is a heavy duty, hall effect controller for use in high operating force, hand operated applications. The joysticks are available with several high function handles and in single, dual or triple axis configurations, with all joysticks tailor configured for the simulators.

Featuring a USB 1.1 HID compliant interface, the HFX Series IV USB joysticks integrate seamlessly with any software application supporting USB joystick inputs via Microsoft DirectX. No device driver or manufacture’s specific SDK is required, the HFX Series IV USB joystick is recognised as a standard HID “game controller” device. Simlog’s Hydraulic Excavator is a professional PC-based training tool and puts users in the virtual cabin of a modern hydraulic excavator. A total of 12 simulation modules are provided of increasing difficulty, beginning with basic operation of the boom and carrier and ending with trenching and truck loading. The Hydraulic Excavator simulator features Simlog's unique "dynamic terrain modeling" technology and users are able to switch between "SAE" and "BackhoeLoader" joystick patterns. CH Products is a member of the APEM group.

• CH Products www.chproducts.com

AustralianMining

Mobile laser scanning MAPTEK is demonstrating the qualities of mobile scanning over traditional tripod setup scanning. According to the company, mobile scanning can be carried out in half the time of traditional laser scanning. “We have hard evidence showing that laser scanning is a viable alternative to aerial mapping, which also requires additional time and effort for 3rd party processing,” Improves scanning safety.

Maptek general manager, North America, Jon Larson said. The Maptek I-Site 8800 long range laser scanner has been set up with a ruggedised vehicle mount on a light duty truck. The scanner is operated from within the cab, allowing normally inaccessible areas to be captured without risk to personnel.

“The benefit of running the scanning system at a site is that surveyors get a very clear demonstration of the speed and ease of collecting data,” Larson added. “The system improves safety by allowing personnel to operate the scanner from inside a vehicle.”

Maptek’s latest hardware, the I-Site 8800 laser scanner has a data capture range of up to 2000 metres.

• Maptek 08 8338 9222 www.maptek.com

Disposable coveralls MSA have developed Microtech, a series of disposable coveralls to protect workers from dangerous contaminants. The certified CE compliant (type 5 and type 6) coveralls protect against chemical splash and solid dry particulates, and are also anti-static while providing protection against infective agents and radioactive contamination.

The Mircotech coveralls were designed to remedy issues typically seen in other work clothing, such as a featuring a reinforced crotch, double reinforced

zipper flaps, double bounded seams for high tear resistance and comfortable wrist, ankle, waist straps and hoods.

They also feature breathable, light, low piling fabric in a range of sizes and are available in orange or white.

• MSA (Australia) 1300 728 672 aus.customerservice@msanet.com www.msa.net.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

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Mining More for Less.

Liebherr-Australia Pty Ltd. 1 Dr. Willi Liebherr Drive Para Hills West, South Australia 5096 Phone: (08) 8349 6888 E-mail: info.las@liebherr.com www.liebherr.com

The Group

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Lubrication free piston rings

Pneumatic valve interlocks

READY-TO-FIT clip-on polymer piston rings are increasingly replacing PTFE tape, as they can be fitted with one simple movement.

Clip on polymer piston rings.

The clip-type guide rings are used in valves, actuators and lifting components in armatures, the food and drinks industry, chemical and medical technology, to name but a few.

The igus piston rings are lubrication free, wear-resistant, have a defined clearance and are dimensionally stable even with edge loads. This makes the “iglidur” piston rings suitable for linear and/ or rotary, lifting or pivoting movements.

One major advantage – in addition to being lubrication free – is they are fast fitting. The ready-to-fit piston rings are fitted in only one movement, into an undercut machined in a bore or in a groove of a shaft.

Polymer piston rings made of the tribo-optimised universal material “iglidur J” are now available ex stock in 13 dimensions for shaft diameters from 10 to 70 mm.

The compact AC/DC power supply units supply 100% output at ambient temperatures of up to 60°C. They can be used in a wide temperature range between -25 and 70°C and therefore also in outside areas.

• Treotham Automation 02 9907 1778 info@treotham.com.au www.treotham.com.au

FORTRESS has unleashed its redeveloped pneumatic valve interlock range.

The units feature a modular design that allows the configuration of an array of valves, trapped key interlocks and key switches in any combination.

The pneumatic valves (PV+) are suitable for the isolation of a pneumatic power sources and are Feature modular design. key free, but can also allow the unit to be used in conjunction with other functional modules.

The PV+ has been designed to complement the Fortress mGard range of mechanical key interlocks for heavy applications, which work by releasing and trapping keys in a predetermined sequence to ensure safe operation of dangerous machinery; access is not permitted until a safe condition has been achieved.

With the new PV+, a combination of isolation/access keys is possible, with sequential or non-sequential key operation available.

The PV+ has been designed with a zinc alloy valve body and mild steel zinc coated plates.

• Fortress Systems 03 9771 5350 australia@fortressinterlocks.com www.fortressinterlocks.com

Heavy duty hose reel

Has safer rewind speeds.

REELTECH have released the PIT BULL hose reel.

The reel is designed to eliminate the need for an external gearbox and produces a safer rewind speed.

This safer hydraulic rewind drive ensure safe pull force without the need for torque controls.

A patented quick change hub technology means that any of the Pit Bull hose reel can be changed to suit various hose sizes & diameters in minutes and its multi-positional mounting allows the reel to be easily mounted and adapted to some pre-existing footprints.

The new narrow model is designed for smaller capacity or limited space requirements such as in workshops, service trucks or mine processes.

It features a full hot dip galvanizing to all frame & disc components with stainless steel hub assembly and hose guide as standard for maximum corrosion protection.

A stainless steel swivel can be easily added upon request making the entire fluid path stainless steel, suitable for aggressive or corrosive fluids.

It comes in a range suiting most common hose sizes from 1” to 2” I.D. hose.

• Reeltech 1800 733 546 sales@reeltech.com.au ww.reeltech.com.au

Metal shielded connectors WEIDMULLER have expanded their range of Profibus connectors with the release of shielded metal profibus DP connectors.

The connectors are designed for industrial use and automation environments, and are completely encased in metal shielding.

This outer metal shielding works to eliminate electrical noise and reduce wiring errors on installations.

Purposely designed as compact units, the connectors are available in 35 and 90 degree angled cable entries with tension clamp connection, and 90 degrees with M12 plug entries.

• Weidmuller 1800 739 988 info@weidmuller.com.au www.weidmuller.com.au

54 May 2011

AustralianMining

For industrial environments.

Has a lifting capacity of 1220 kilograms.

Skid steer loaders BOBCAT has launched the new S650 skid steer loader.

This latest loader comes with a vertical lift path, 55.41kW, rated operating capacity of 1220 kilograms and provides greater forward reach at full height for loading over dump trucks.

The cab design allows for improved visibility, with the rear window 14% larger and the top window 43% larger for when operators are loading trucks or using attachments with raised lift arms.

The S650 loaders’ cabs are pressurised to keep dust to a minimum, and also provides a large swing open door to make entry and exit of the can easier.

Bobcat’s skid steer load has powerful hydraulics, top digging and pushing power and an increased fuel capacity.

• Bobcat Australia 1800 643 853 bobaust@bobcat.com.au www.bobcat.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Electric rope shovel

Will provide power for Rio’s Hope Downs-4 mine.

Remote site power

Froth pump GIW Industries have launched its new High Volume Forth (HVF) pump. The pump can move froth without airlocking and provides continuous operation without shutdown or operator invervention. The hydraulic design removes air from the impeller while the pump is running, allowing operators to keep processes moving and improve efficiency. The GIW HVF can be retrofit into many existing froth applications. The pump's de-aeration system includes a vented impeller and airlock venting. This helps to eliminate sump overflow due to pump airlock; reduce

downtime; and allow water use to be restricted to the bare minimum. Fewer pumps are required for less capital expense, requiring less water and power usage. GIW's HVF pump has been fully tested on froth and viscous liquids.

Designed for air-entrained slurries, the pump can be used in phosphate mining, hard rock mining and oil sands.

• KSB Australia Brett Lewis 0408 202 585 www.ksb.com.au

AUR102Bam

ABB to supply $30 million power station to Rio Tinto’s Hope Downs iron ore mine. The project includes the design, supply, installation and commissioning of a new 220/33 kV substation to provide power to the new remote Hope Downs4 mine in the Pilbara. It includes civil and electrical works as well as power transformers, instrumentation transformers, disconnectors and high- and medium-voltage air-insulated switchgear. Substation automation systems compliant with the IEC 61850 standard and come equipped with the latest protection and control products. The substation will also feature 11kV reactors and capacitor banks which reduce electric loss and improve network stability. The mine’s existing 220kV substation was also constructed by ABB and has supplied power to the Hope Downs-1 mine for more than five years. The two substations are located in south eastern Pilbara and will supply electricity supporting an annual iron ore production capacity of 15 million tonnes at the new Hope Downs-4 mine.

• ABB Australia 1300 782 527 www.abbaustralia.com.au

P&H MinePro have announced the order of the first AC drive P&H MinePro 4100XPC electric rope shovel for Australia. To be delivered to Rio Tinto’s Hail Creek coal mine in Queensland, the AC drive P&H 4100XPC is a heavy duty electric rope shovel that provides a 108.9 tonne payload capacity specifically designed to operate in high production mines. The new shovel is scheduled to walk off the pad in 2012. Rio Tinto Coal Australia Managing Director Bill Champion said the new shovel will join two P&H Provides a 108.9 tonne payload capacity.

9020 draglines and the existing shovel, also a P&H 4100XPC, at the Hail Creek Mine.

“Hail Creek Mine put their first P&H machine, a 9020 dragline, to work in 2004,” Champion said.

• P&H MinePro Services (Australia) Julia McMurray 07 3240 4660 jmcmurra@minepro.com.au www.minepro.com.au

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www.miningaustralia.com.au

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Hearing protection HOWARD Leight has released Sync, next generation stereo earmuffs.

The earmuffs provide hearing protection in hazardous noise environments while also providing high quality sound from the wearers MP3 players.

While protecting the wearer against noise induced hearing loss on the job with an SLC80 rating of 31 db Class 5, it also allows the wearer to connect a personal MP3 player and mobile phones.

• Howard Leight www.howardleight.com

Wing pulleys

Has a rating of 31db Class 5.

Drill safety tooling BOART Longyear has developed two new tools to prevent hand injuries – the Rod Lifter and the Split Tube Loader.

The Rod Lifter is a handheld and lightweight tool that allows for proper lifting techniques by keeping the wrist and hand in a neutral position to eliminate strain and protect the fingers from pinch points and sharp surfaces.

It also prevents thread damage and eliminates pipe slippage through the use of a specially designed carbide rod grip.

Split tubes and outer casings can become very sharp and often contain metal burrs, and drillers can often suffer hand lacerations and other injuries, even when wearing proper gloves.

The Split Tube Loader is designed to prevent hand contact with these sharp, jagged edges.

They are designed to fit multiple split tube diameters, and fit comfortably in the hand and keeps fingers away from dangerous contact points.

• Boart Longyear www.boartlongyear.com

Protective gloves SPERIAN have released the new IsoArc gloves for use in low voltage applications at risk of arc flashes.

The protective gloves protect the wearer from thermal damage caused by arc flashes.

Protects against sudden arc flash.

It combines electrical insulation protection and arc flash protection combined in one glove while measuring only 1mm in thickness, allowing for greater mobility and dexterity.

The IsoArc safety gloves are made from latex with a polychloroprene layer.

The gloves include grip for a firm hold and to reduce hand fatigue.

A chlorinated finish enables easy fitting.

With a bi-colour finish, the flame resistant exterior is finished in a work-safe orange while the natural beige interior provides electrical insulation.

The gloves carry a RC rating, ensuring its resistance to acid, ozone and oil.

It has a usage tension of 1000 volts.

• Sperian 1300 139 166 www.sperian.com

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SUPERIOR Industries has expanded its line of Chevron Wing Pulleys.

Prevents material lodging on conveyors.

It is now building a style rated for CEMA applications, which make infrequent starts and stops. The pulleys have a V-shape construction and designed to deflect material and prevent it from lodging better than standard wing pulleys are able to on conveyors.

This results in less trapped fugitive materials and less conveyor belt damage.

Other benefits include much softer decibel levels generated by the Chevron wing pulley. According to Superior, a standard wing pulley produces about 120 decibels of sound, while the Chevron wing pulley sustains a level of 70 decibels.

The company says that is like comparing a jet engine to a vacuum cleaner.

With the addition, Superior’s Chevron wing pulleys are now available in CEMA rated construction with diameters from 10” to 20” and face widths from 20” to 63”, plus Mine Duty and Super Duty styles with diameters from 12” to 48” and face widths from 12” to 78”.

• Superior Industries www.superior-ind.com

Transformers AUTOMATED Control Engineering (A.C.E.) has introduced the PST 100 transformer range.

This latest range of 12V and 24V transformers are suitable for harsh environments between -40 degrees up to 70 degrees, and come with an epoxy resin casing.

The FEAS PST100 range have been safety accredited to VDE, EN, UL, CSA, ensuring optimal protection and performance.

For harsh work environments.

The output is separated according to VDE 0551 with extra low safety potential PELV (EN 60204), SELV (EN 60950). The PST100 transformers have been designed to be overload and open circuit protected, as well as short circuit proof.

The range has also been designed with high functionality, including possible parallel connections.

• Automated Control Engineering 02 4954 5004 sales@aceg.com.au www.aceg.com.au

RC drill rigs BOART Longyear has released the RC6 drill, a lightweight compact reverse circulation rig.

The rig offers RC, versatile coring, down-the-hole-hammer (DTH), and rotary drilling capabilities.

It has been engineered for fast site set-up and comes with robust steel crawlers and an optional radio remote control for driving.

The RC6 can even be driven on slopes up to 30 degrees while the operator maintains a safe distance when unloading or driving on uneven surface terrain.

It also has an optional trailer mounted cyclone and splitter that can be towed behind the drill rig fro flexibility and ease of mobility on site.

Boart’s latest RC rig weighs in at 8000kg and provides 5.5 tonnes of pullback, features a rotary head with up to 66540 Nm of torque, and has a Deutz air-cooled diesel engine with 72 kilowatts of power and a four metre feed stroke.

• Boart Longyear www.boartlongyear.com www.miningaustralia.com.au

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It’s a BIG deal to keep your . g n i v o m s s e n i bus on finance for new business or commercial motor vehicles.*

At BOQ, we’re doing everything we can to help small business get ahead. That’s why we’re offering a great rate on finance for new business or commercial motor vehicles.* Plus, you’ll deal with a local Owner-Manager who is running a small business too - so they’re fully equipped to understand your business needs.

Talk to the bank with Owner-Managers.

DROP into your local branch CALL 1300 737 766 VISIT boq.com.au * Offer available for applications received by 31st May 2011; approved and settled by 15th June 2011. Finance for new motor vehicles only. Vehicle must be a new motor vehicle (motor car, station wagon, panel van, utility or similar vehicle designed to carry a load of less than one tonne; or fewer than nine passengers), or a new light commercial vehicle (less than 3.5t GVM). The vehicle must be purchased from a recognised new vehicle supplier. It cannot be purchased from a private vendor or be a sale and leaseback/hire back.

“New” does not include demonstrator models, dealer used or other low mileage vehicles. Equipment Finance offered by BOQ Equipment Finance Limited ABN 78 008 492 582 (BOQEF). BOQEF is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of Queensland Limited ABN 32 009 656 740 (BOQ). BOQ does not guarantee or otherwise support the obligations or performance of BOQEF or the products it offers. Full terms and conditions available at any BOQ branch. Interest rate quoted is fixed and indicative only and is subject to change without junior_BOQ27874_AM notice. Fees and charges are payable. BOQEF’s standard credit assessment criteria apply. Term minimum is 36 months to a maximum of 60 months. All information contained in this advertisement is current as at 1st May 2011.

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M&E WA

The Mining and Engineering WA exhibition is set to draw attendees from right across the mining and investment sectors in Western Australia and beyond.

BOOM

Exhibition rides on mining Western Australia is experiencing a boom ‘beyond expectations’ as M&E WA gears up.

W

ith Western Australia’s resources industry showing unprecedented growth – having surged almost 50% in value between 2009 and 2010 – Perth’s Mining & Engineering Western Australia (M&E WA) exhibition in July is well placed for participants to take advantage of opportunities resulting from the boom.

M&E WA will be held in Perth’s Exhibition and Convention Centre from July 5-7, 2011, and is organised

by Reed Exhibitions, Australia’s largest mining exhibition organiser.

Figures recently compiled by WA’s Department of Mines and Petroleum State’s show that the resources industry has surged almost 50% in value since 2009 – reaching a

record $91.6 billion in 2010.

Iron ore remained the state’s most valuable resource, accounting for $48.5 billion or 53% of all mineral and petroleum sales in 2010, with the petroleum sector and gold also performing very strongly.

WA’s export earnings reached $100 billion for the first time in 2010, while the state leads Australia in mining investment expenditure, accounting for $24.5 billion in 2010.

WA’s resources industry is expected to continue growing strongly in 2011 and beyond with more than $250 billion earmarked for development and expansions in major mining and petroleum projects.

According to Paul Baker, Reed’s exhibition director, industrial events,

The exhibitors cover nearly a square kilometre at M&E WA.

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WA’s strong growth makes the timing of M&E WA ideal for the industry.

“This exhibition will be a unique opportunity for both exhibitors and visitors to M&E WA to take advantage of this booming market,” he said.

“In the face of such strong demand from developing economies such as China and India, miners are looking for new products and services to allow them to extract resources faster and more efficiently.

“And on the exhibitor side, we are attracting suppliers who can offer those innovative solutions,” Baker said.

“The exhibition will provide an ideal venue for participants from all sides of the resources sector – buyers, operators, managers, suppliers and others – to meet, network and talk at an industry-specific event.

“We will also be offering the opportunity for all sides of the industry to participate in a two-day conference to be held alongside the exhibition – and for which we will be releasing details shortly,” he said.

“In the meantime, our exhibition program is developing strongly; as of late March, we have over 60 exhibitors contracted, covering a total of almost 1000 sq m – putting us well on track to achieve our planned exhibition footprint.”

M&E WA is part of the Reed Mining Events structured portfolio of premium mining industry exhibitions owned and operated by Reed Exhibitions Australia. This portfolio includes: • Queensland Gas Conference &

Exhibition, Brisbane, August 1617, 2011 • Asia Pacific’s International Mining Exhibition (AIMEX), Sydney, held between September 6-9, 2011. It is a flagship event held every four years, and is also co-hosting the 8th annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

• Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition, Mackay, July 2426, 2012 • Goldfields Mining Expo, Kalgoorlie, October 30-November 1, 2012.

• Reed Exhibitions Luke Griffin 02 9422 2339 luke.griffin@reedexhibitions.com.au www.miningandengineeringwa.com.au

Heavy equipment is on show. www.miningaustralia.com.au

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The mining exhibition & conference Perth has been waiting for.

5-7 July 2011 Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre Register Now

miningandengineeringwa.com.au

Your premium mining industry marketplace & information exchange.

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8th Annual Australian Mining Prospect Awards, Co-hosted by AIMEX In this issue we have a brief word from some of the sponsors about their companies and why they choose to sponsor the Prospect Awards.

Schenck Process Australia Schenck Process is a global market leader in measuring and process technologies.

Through our world-wide network of operating companies we provide our customers with unrivalled industrial weighing, feeding, screening and automation solutions.

Sponsoring the ‘Minerals Processing Plant of the Year’ category in Australian Mining’s Prospect Awards for the second year running is one of the ways that we contribute to and celebrate the success of an industry that is critically important to the economy of our country and of course to our business.

The mining and mineral processing industry is responsible for around 48% of Australia's exports and represents 8% of the country's total GDP. This industry is one of the reasons that, as a nation, we have been able to weather the recent global financial crisis and emerge in much better shape than many other developed nations.

Together with our clients in the mining and mineral processing industry, we are always challenging current practices and breaking new ground by combining cutting edge technology with world class engineering know-how.

Yet the men and women that work so hard to make Australia's mineral processing plants and mining operations amongst the most technically advanced and efficient in the world often remain unrecognised.

At Schenck Process, we consider that the Prospect Awards are a great way of identifying and recognising the talented professionals that make this possible.

We wish all participants in the awards the best of luck and look forward to meeting the finalists at the award presentation evening on the second night of AIMEX in September.

MMD Mining Machinery Developments (MMD) designs and manufactures mineral sizing (crushing) equipment and services to the mining, metallurgical, industrial minerals, alumina and other industries.

The core products; Mineral Sizers (crushers) and Feeders offer a solution to problems such as variable ore properties, product requirements, site conditions and environmental issues.

Founded in 1978, to design and manufacture equipment for the UK underground coal mining industry, today MMD size over 60 different minerals world wide, in many varied process industries.

MMD Sizing equipment is available for surface or underground installations, stationary or mobile, and for climatic conditions ranging from arctic to tropical.

The MMD Sizer range now includes, primary, secondary and tertiary Sizers for wet and dry processing of metallic and non-metallic minerals for mining, industrial minerals and quarrying industries.

To complement the robust Twin Shaft Mineral Sizer, MMD has designed and developed a range of heavy duty Apron Plate Feeders, which convey unbroken material to the crushing plant.

Standard widths available are 1500, 2000, 3000 and 4000mm on D4, D7, D9 and D11 Caterpillar sealed and lubricated tractor chain.

The mobile and semi-mobile sizer systems developed by MMD are both high in capacity and compact in size when compared to the traditional technology in this field.

The latest range of MMD Mobile Sizers have the ability to offer mine operators unprecedented levels of productivity, and therefore very low operating costs per tonne.

These energy efficient electrically driven “Green Mining Solutions” are all designed to assist mining companies to achieve the double bottom line of being both economic and environmentally friendly.

MMD is proud to be the long running sponsor of the Australian Mine of the Year award.

SEW-Eurodrive SEW-Eurodrive is proud to be sponsoring the coal mine of the year award at the 2011 Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

As a key supplier to the coal mining industry, we believe in quality and efficiency when it comes to drive technology.

Supplying a range of industrial gear units, motors and drives in sizes in excess of 1MW, we deliver more than just products to heavy industry.

A team of talented engineers develop effective and timely solutions based on customers' motion requirements, which are backed by after-sales commissioning and product support that is second to none.

We also understand that time is money, so units are delivered within a matter of weeks from our local assembly plants, rather than waiting months for items to be shipped from overseas.

The coal mining industry is one of Australia's strongest assets – as the world's greatest exporter of coal, we can be thankful for an industry that has given us global recognition.

SEW-Eurodrive takes great pride in sponsoring the coal mine of the year award, which we hope in turn, encourages the organization in and industry which has greatly supported our company over time.

We hope that this award goes to a fitting recipient to provide them with the acknowledgment they deserve for making such a strong contribution to Australian industry.

SEW-Eurodrive looks forward to further ongoing partnerships with all forms of mining, now and into the future.

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Be a leader in Australia’s mining industry and nominate today

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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At the 2011 8th annual

AUSTRALIAN MINING PROSPECT AWARDS 7th September Doltone House Sydney, Co - hosted by AIMEX NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN IN THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES

DON’T MISS MINING’S NIGHT OF NIGHTS! 7TH SEPTEMBER, SYDNEY For the 8th year, Australian mining professionals will come together to recognise and celebrate innovation and outstanding performance in the industry.

Held on the second night of AIMEX, the event showcases the best that mining has to offer.

● ● ● ●

Mine of the Year Mine Manager of the Year Contract Miner of the Year Minerals Processing Plant of the Year ● Excellence in Mine OH&S ● Excellence in Environmental Management ● Innovative Mining Solutions

● ● ● ●

Explorer of the Year Coal Mine of the Year Outstanding Contribution to Mining Employer of Choice Award

AND NEW FOR 2011 ● Mining’s Female of the Year ● Young Achiever of the Year ● Community Interaction Award ● Hard Rock Mine of the Year

WHY NOMINATE?

NOMINATION DEADLINE 30 JUNE

>> EXPOSURE AND PUBLICITY >> RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD-WORKING TEAM MEMBERS >> VALUABLE NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES WITH KEY INDUSTRY LEADERS

DOWNLOAD THE NOMINATION KIT AT WWW.MININGAUSTRALIA.COM.AU/AWARDS 6-9 Sept 2011 SPONSORS:

For further information contact Margaret Tra on (02) 9422 2759 or email margaret.tra@reedbusiness.com.au To book a table at the awards contact Alex Evans on (02) 9422 2890 or email alex.evans@reedbusiness.com.au

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MINING JOBS To advertise a new job contact Hussein Azzan at 02 9422 2851

To see the latest jobs available visit www.miningaustralia.com.au, which is updated daily.

SENIOR/PRINCIPAL MINING ENGINEER – FEASIBILITIES Location – Perth Company – EMS Pty Description: With the very strong economy particularly the resources sector, the outlook is very positive.

This Mining House is on the top of their game and have been on the acquisition trail.

On offer is a whole new world of professional opportunities for a Senior/Principal Mining Engineer with a Mining House that is performing very well and into their next development phases. There will be options to move into MM, GM, or Operations Manager in the future – so its up to you!!

This role is for a demanding operation there are a few UGs for you to work on and a couple of OPs, if you'd like the exposure, or if you have already, you can assist with driving the mining plan. You will play a vital role in providing your skills and experience with feasibility studies, planning, designs, cost modeling, scheduling and project development.

There is a high degree of interaction and good communications needed in this role and you must come with a degree in Mine Engineering.

There is no doubt that this is a role that will provide you with an extremely challenging, exciting and variable experience, as well as working alongside a professional team. The money is lovely with a nice bonus plan in place and get home to your family every night being based in Perth.

Please contact Diane on 08 9443 0400 or diane@emsjobs.com.au in strict confidence or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au HYDROMETALLURGIST-PRODUCTION METALLURGIST Location – Coober Pedy and Outback, SA Company – EMS Pty This is the opportunity to continue to develop and expand on your exceptional skills base on some fantastic projects. You will be working in a state of the art environment and be surrounded by an expert team. But besides this , you can expect a great work life balance with flexible hours and very competitive remuneration.

Please contact Nikki on 08 9443 0400 or nikki@emsjobs.com.au in strict confidence or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au PROFESSIONAL MINING ENGINEERS/OPERATIONS MANAGER AND SENIOR MINING ENGINEER Location – Perth Company – Exoro MPS Description: Exoro Mining Planning Services is a small team of experienced consultants providing mine engineering project solutions to a range of clients both locally and internationally. Due to expansion we are seeking an Operations Manager and Senior Mining Engineer to join our team.

Successful candidates will have a tertiary qualification in Mining Engineering with extensive mining industry experience. You will be able to demonstrate a high level of computer literacy, sound business planning and report writing skills along with a strong dedication to team work. Previous business development and marketing experience in a consulting environment highly desirable.

This is a rare opportunity to bring your enthusiasm and energy to an evolving and growing organisation where your business acumen and desire for delivering innovative, practical and effective solutions to clients will be rewarded.

Exoro offers a highly competitive salary package, genuine professional development opportunities and a dynamic, flexible team environment.

For a confidential discussion please call Glenn Van Vlemen on (08) 9380 9995 or apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au COAL MINING SUPERVISOR Location – Queensland Company – BHP Billiton Description: BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) is Australia's largest coal producer, with nine mine sites and a coal loading port in Central Queensland. As the world's largest seaborne coking coal supplier, and part of the BHP Billiton group, BMA is uniquely positioned to offer experience and career development opportunities difficult to find elsewhere.

Norwich Park Mine is a successful open cut mining operation with an unparalleled commitment to safety and environment and is currently operating an annual production capacity of 5Mtpa. Our employees live in Dysart – a modern town of 4,500 situated midway between Mackay and the Whitsunday Coast and Rockhampton and the Keppel Islands. Dysart is serviced by a strong community and facilities including a hospital, schools and numerous sporting options including a golf course.

Norwich Park Mine currently has a vacancy for a suitably qualified Supervisor in the Mining Department. As a Mining Supervisor, you will report to the Mining, Truck and Shovel Superintendent and the primary responsibility of this role will be to provide leadership to your allocated crew.

Benefits include a competitive salary and conditions, including relocation package and performance bonus scheme.

BHP Billiton has an overriding commitment to safety and environmental responsibility and is an equal opportunity employer.

BHP Billiton has an overriding commitment to safety and environmental responsibility.

To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au COAL MINING SUPERVISOR Location – Kalgoorlie, WA Company – Barrick (Australia Pacific) Limited Description: Barrick is the world leader in gold production with the industry's largest unhedged gold production and reserves. With over 20,000 employees around the globe, our vision is to be the world's best gold mining company by finding, acquiring, developing and producing quality reserves in a safe, profitable and socially responsible manner. Achieving our vision depends on having the best employees in the world.

A choice of career with Barrick is to join a friendly, diverse and high achieving team of people. To have the flexibility to grow and go wherever your ambition takes you, both within Barrick's structure and throughout the world. We have a culture that encourages continuous improvement, giving you the opportunities to train and develop and learn something new every day.

Position overview: You will be responsible for maintaining the underground mobile equipment at our Barrick Kanowna Operations.

This is residential role based in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia.

Apply: Please visit www.barrick.com/careers or please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au.

If you have any queries regarding this role, please contact Stephanie Heaney, Recruitment Advisor, on 08 9080 6626.

PROCESS TECHNICIANS Location – QLD Company – Rio Tinto Description: As a world leader in finding, mining and processing the earth's mineral resources, Rio Tinto delivers minerals and metals that meet global needs and contribute to improving our living standards. Our success depends not only on the quality and diversity of the Group's assets, but also on the talent, skills and safety of our people. We seek to contribute to sustainable development and share a commitment to be a dependable global partner and a good local neighbour.

Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK. Rio Tinto's business is finding, mining and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminium, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc) and iron ore. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and Southern Africa. For more information, please visit www.riotinto.com.

Rio Tinto Alcan is a global supplier of bauxite, alumina and primary aluminium. In October 2007, Rio Tinto acquired Alcan Inc. The combination has created the world number one producer of bauxite and aluminium.

It also has a number of projects in place to secure the leading position in alumina production. We are headquartered in Montreal, Canada, and have a strong leadership front in Brisbane, Australia.

Rio Tinto Alcan Yarwun are currently inviting applications for Process Technicians (Operators) to join their highly skilled team. Working in small, safety focused teams you will assist in the efficient day-to-day operation of the refinery while actively working to identify opportunities for improvement.

We are particularly seeking people with the following skills and experience; To be successful in this role you must possess a strong mechanical aptitude. Previous experience working within a refinery, chemical processing or similar heavy industry work environment would be considered highly advantageous. Your strong communication skills, team orientation and commitment to safe work practices and continuous improvement is imperative as is the ability to work unsupervised in a constructive and effective manner.

In turn, you will be rewarded with an opportunity to progress your career within a global organisation that is committed to the career development of its people. A competitive remuneration package will be offered for these residential roles accompanied by attractive family friendly work rosters.

Consistent with our Diversity Strategy, female applicants and indigenous applicants are encouraged to apply To apply please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au UNDERGROUND HEAVY-DUTY FITTER Location – Kalgoorlie, WA Company – Barrick (Australia Pacific) Limited Description: Barrick is the world leader in gold production with the industry's largest unhedged gold production and reserves. With over 20,000 employees around the globe, our vision is to be the world's best gold mining company by finding, acquiring, developing and producing quality reserves in a safe, profitable and socially responsible manner. Achieving our vision depends on having the best employees in the world.

A choice of career with Barrick is to join a friendly, diverse and high achieving team of people. To have the flexibility to grow and go wherever your ambition takes you, both within Barrick's structure and throughout the world. We have a culture that encourages continuous improvement, giving you the opportunities to train and develop and learn something new every day.

Position overview: You will be responsible for maintaining the underground mobile equipment at our Barrick Kanowna Operations.

This is residential role based in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia.

Apply: Please visit www.barrick.com/careers or please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au If you have any queries regarding this role, please contact Stephanie Heaney, Recruitment Advisor, on 08 9080 6626.

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GEOLOGY DATABASE ADMINISTRATOR Location – Kalgoorlie, WA Company – Barrick (Australia Pacific) Limited Description: Barrick is the world leader in gold production with the industry's largest unhedged gold production and reserves. With over 20,000 employees around the globe, our vision is to be the world's best gold mining company by finding, acquiring, developing and producing quality reserves in a safe, profitable and socially responsible manner. Achieving our vision depends on having the best employees in the world.

A choice of career with Barrick is to join a friendly, diverse and high achieving team of people. To have the flexibility to grow and go wherever your ambition takes you, both within Barrick's structure and throughout the world. We have a culture that encourages continuous improvement, giving you the opportunities to train and develop and learn something new every day.

The Geology Database Administrator maintains and improves all site geological data collection and validations. You will manage the geology databases including importing, validation and reporting of data for Surface, Underground and Exploration.

This role is FIFO operating on an 8/6 roster.

This position offers a competitive salary package in line with qualifications and experience. Standard benefits include premium private health cover for the whole family, salary continuance, salary packaging options and 20 days annual leave per year.

This is residential role based in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia.

Apply: Please visit www.barrick.com/careers or please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au If you have any queries regarding this role, please contact Stephanie Heaney, Recruitment Advisor, on 08 9080 6626.

MAINTENANCE SUPERINTENDENT – FIXED PLANT Location – Kalgoorlie, Goldfields and Esperance, WA Company – Barrick (Australia Pacific) Limited Description: Barrick is the world leader in gold production with the industry's largest unhedged gold production and reserves. With over 20,000 employees around the globe, our vision is to be the world's best gold mining company by finding, acquiring, developing and producing quality reserves in a safe, profitable and socially responsible manner. Achieving our vision depends on having the best employees in the world.

A choice of career with Barrick is to join a friendly, diverse and high achieving team of people. To have the flexibility to grow and go wherever your ambition takes you, both within Barrick's structure and throughout the world. We have a culture that encourages continuous improvement, giving you the opportunities to train and develop and learn something new every day.

Barrick Kanowna has a strong presence in the Eastern-Goldfields of Western Australia centred around the city of Kalgoorlie-Boulder. The operations process 2 million tonnes of refractory and free milling ore per annum from open pit projects and three underground mines. Barrick Kanowna is one of the leading employers in the Goldfields and has a large exploration lease holding in the region.

The Position: Reporting to the Regional Maintenance Manager, this role provides leadership to the processing maintenance team and manages team performance. You will support and develop safety plans and programs and proactively identify ways to improve plant reliability and manage maintenance costs.

The Person: Trade or professionally qualified with five plus years experience in a supervisory role you will have demonstrated strong leadership skills and be committed to teamwork with proven ability to effect continuous improvement in safe work practices and plant reliability.

The Company is committed to high quality safety, environmental and continuous improvement practices and applicants should be able to demonstrate shared values in this area.

Barrick leads the way with market competitive salary packages, premium private health cover, salary continuance insurance, salary packaging options and eligibility for short and long term incentive schemes. Barrick offers study assistance and professional development to support employees’ current and future positions, and as part of a global organisation, there are opportunities for career development at a local, national and global level. Join Barrick! .

Apply: Please visit www.barrick.com/careers or please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au.

If you have any queries regarding this role, please contact Stephanie Heaney, Recruitment Advisor, on 08 9080 6626.

MINING ENGINEERING OPPORTUNITIES Location – Kalgoorlie, Goldfields and Esperance, WA Company – Barrick (Australia Pacific) Limited Description: Barrick is the world leader in gold production with the industry's largest unhedged gold production and reserves. With over 20,000 employees around the globe, our vision is to be the world's best gold mining company by finding, acquiring, developing and producing quality reserves in a safe, profitable and socially responsible manner. Achieving our vision depends on having the best employees in the world.

A choice of career with Barrick is to join a friendly, diverse and high achieving team of people. To have the flexibility to grow and go wherever your ambition takes you, both within Barrick's structure and throughout the world. We have a culture that encourages continuous improvement, giving you the opportunities to train and develop and learn something new every day.

Cowal Gold Mine is a residential, first class open cut mining operation, approximately 45 kilometres from the town of West Wyalong and about 450km west of Sydney. It is centrally located to a number of large regional towns and facilities. The mine currently produces 235,000 ounces each year from an open cut operation. Cowal employs more than 350 people onsite and we offer outstanding career opportunities.

These are residential roles working a 5/2/4/3 roster. Housing is available in West Wyalong which offers a safe, friendly country lifestyle for singles and families.

The Positions: Short Term Planning Engineer (Ref 03068) Reporting to the Senior Mining Engineer, the Short Term Planning Engineer is responsible for planning out and communicating the weekly or short term production plan as well as assisting the Senior Mining Engineer to facilitate and direct production efforts towards achieving short term and long term production targets.

Long Term Planning Engineer (Ref 065644) Reporting to the Mine Engineering Services Superintendent, the Long Term Planning Engineer is responsible for medium and long term planning, providing guidance to short term planning team, pit design work and project design as well as ore reserve and budget calculation.

Projects Engineer (Ref 065641) Reporting to the Senior Mining Engineer the Projects Engineer is responsible for the design, planning, scheduling, reconciliation, and supervision of projects for the Mine Engineering Services Department. The Projects Engineer may also be required to undertake other tasks as required to support Mine operations.

Geotechnical Engineer (Ref 03067) Reporting to the Mine Engineering Services Superintendent, the Geotechnical Engineer is responsible for geotechnical data collection, monitoring, design and analysis to support the mining operation.

The People: We are seeking suitably qualified Engineers with a minimum of 3 years experience in open pit operations.

Excellent communication and computer skills are essential along with an ability to work in a supportive, collaborative environment.

The Benefits: These positions offer competitive mining industry remuneration packages in line with qualifications and experience. Standard benefits include superannuation, premium health cover, salary continuance insurance and salary packaging options. Relocation assistance may be provided to successful applicants.

Apply: Please visit www.barrick.com/careers or please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au.

If you have any queries regarding this role, please contact Stephanie Heaney, Recruitment Advisor, on 08 9080 6626.

MINING ENGINEERING OPPORTUNITIES Location – Kalgoorlie, Goldfields and Esperance, WA Company – Barrick (Australia Pacific) Limited Description: Barrick is the world leader in gold production with the industry's largest unhedged gold production and reserves. With over 20,000 employees around the globe, our vision is to be the world's best gold mining company by finding, acquiring, developing and producing quality reserves in a safe, profitable and socially responsible manner. Achieving our vision depends on having the best employees in the world.

A choice of career with Barrick is to join a friendly, diverse and high achieving team of people. To have the flexibility to grow and go wherever your ambition takes you, both within Barrick's structure and throughout the world. We have a culture that encourages continuous improvement, giving you the opportunities to train and develop and learn something new every day.

Barrick is headquartered in Toronto, Canada and has 27 mining operations with many advanced exploration projects located across 5 continents and a large number of tenements located on some of the most prolific and prospective mineral trends. 11 of Barrick’s mining operations are found within the Australia Pacific region, with its regional head office located in Perth, Western Australia.

Barrick (Granny Smith) Pty Ltd is located 950kms north east of Perth and 23kms south of Laverton and has been one of Australia’s leading gold producers for the last 15 years. With continued growth in our underground mining operations and an exciting exploration portfolio, the projected mine life is five years based on the current reserves.

We are seeking a proactive and self-motivated Underground Mining Engineer with a minimum of three years relevant experience to join our team. The appointee will report to the Senior Mining Engineer and will be responsible for the following duties and activities: The Company is committed to high quality safety, environmental and continuous improvement practices and applicants should be able to demonstrate shared values in this area.

The position is fly in/fly out from Perth on an 8/6 roster. Excellent on-site accommodation is provided.

Recreational facilities include internet café, Foxtel, swimming pool, tennis court, squash court and gymnasium. Telstra mobile and wireless broadband access is provided.

This position offers a competitive salary package in line with qualifications and experience. Standard benefits include superannuation, premium private health cover for the whole family, salary continuance, salary packaging options and 20 days annual leave per year.

Apply: Please visit www.barrick.com/careers or please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au If you have any queries regarding this role, please contact Stephanie Heaney, Recruitment Advisor, on 08 9080 6626.

MINING ENGINEER – UNDERGROUND Location – Kalgoorlie, Goldfields and Esperance, WA Company – EMS Pty Description: Here is a great Mining House a place where you can settle down and know that you will be looked after and gain the skills you require plus have so many opportunities to be moved around in their various sites … what more could you ask for?

You will have the opportunity to work within a small team, focusing on the short term functions of the mine.

You can be assured that you'd be working with some of the country’s most talented, exploration, mining, processing, maintenance and associated support teams. Giving you great mentorship.

Come with a degree in Mining Engineering with at least two-three years experience and your underground time preferably completed. Excellent organisational and communication skills will be a help and experience in mine design software preferably surpac/vulcan would be advantageous.

Please contact Diane on 08 9443 0400 or diane@emsjobs.com.au in strict confidence or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au PRODUCTION MINING ENGINEER Location – Kalgoorlie, Goldfields and Esperance, WA Company – EMS Pty Description: With a difficult deposit, this role calls for an enthusiastic Production Mining Engineer who understands the need for innovative thinking and robust initiatives, because thinking outside of the box is the key to this role.

You will be reporting to the UG Technical Services Manager and be exposed to all aspects of Underground mine engineering within a broad range of mining activities.

A very competitive salary package is on offer and giving you the training to obtain the 1st Class will be a priority in order to move you up to Senior when you are ready.

Please contact Diane on 08 9443 0400 or diane@emsjobs.com.au in strict confidence or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au SENIOR/PRINCIPAL MINING ENGINEER – FEASIBILITY STUDIES Location – Kalgoorlie, Goldfields and Esperance, WA Company – EMS Pty Description: This Mining House is on the top of their game and have been on the acquisition trail. With the very strong economy particularly the resources sector, the outlook is looking very positive.

On offer is a whole new world of professional opportunities for a Senior/Principal Mining Engineer with a Mining House that is performing very well and into their next development phases. There will be options to move into MM, GM, or Operations Manager in the future – so it’s up to you!!

This role is for a demanding operation there are a few UGs for you to work on and a couple of OPs if you'd like the exposure in that area too. You will play a vital role in providing your skills and experience with feasibility studies, planning, designs, cost modeling, scheduling and project development.

There is a high degree of interaction and good communications needed in this role and you must come with a degree in Mine Engineering.

There is no doubt that this is a role that will provide you with an extremely challenging, exciting and variable experience, as well as working alongside a professional team. The money is lovely with a nice bonus plan in place and get home to your family every night being based in Perth.

Please contact Diane on 08 9443 0400 or diane@emsjobs.com.au in strict confidence or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au MANAGER MINING Location – Adelaide Company – EMS Pty Description: This opportunity is for a dynamic and experienced Mine Manager, who is ready to roll their sleeves up and get stuck into the challenges that lay ahead.

The company offers a fast-paced and challenging work environment with people who are among the best in their field. This world class open pit mine is growing fast and offers an entrepreneurial spirit and a range of career development opportunities.

The money is very good, and the promise that they hold will attract you. This is a long-term relationship with future scope.

So, do you want to enjoy the freedom of working autonomously with a company prepared to pay you well and are appreciative of what you contribute?

Please contact Diane on 08 9443 0400 or diane@emsjobs.com.au in strict confidence or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au MANAGER MINING Location – Adelaide Company – EMS Pty Description: The key to your success in this role will be your intimate knowledge of drill and blast functionality and design software to generate development. You need to also come with a tertiary qualification in Mining Engineering and have a good four to seven years experience.

We are after the kind of Engineer who knows that importance of a great company, innovative ideas and a solid energetic team.

Utilise the strength of the company culture and lead this team to success – whilst being rewarded for everything that you achieve.

Drawing on your strong technical skills we need you to provide technical assistance to ensure mining activities are undertaken in a safe, environmentally appropriate and cost effective manner.

This Mining Company is leading the way with its forward thinking and innovative ideas.

If you are interested in joining a company that besides the opportunities and the great work environment, offers competitive salary packages and benefits plus places great importance on your career development.

Please contact Diane on 08 9443 0400 or diane@emsjobs.com.au in strict confidence or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au MINING ENGINEER – PROJECTS Location – Kalgoorlie, Goldfields and Esperance, WA Company – EMS Pty Description: This is a unique opportunity with some exciting projects that will really push your potential ...giving you mining exposure you never dreamed of.

Its expected that you will be creative thinking with the insight to challenge established ideas.

We value your ability to take ownership of this position and be pro-active and not scared to “take the bull by the horns”.

Please contact Diane on 08 9443 0400 or diane@emsjobs.com.au in strict confidence or to apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au MINING ENGINEERING OPPORTUNITIES Location – Perth Company – Micromine Description: Micromine is the global leader in providing innovative software solutions and consulting services to the exploration and mining industries. With a suite of award-winning versatile applications, we have solutions for all personnel involved in the mining cycle. We have grown significantly over the years and now boast office in more than twelve countries, with affiliates in almost every continent.

We are seeking the services of an experienced Senior Mining Engineer/Principal Consultant to lead our rapidly growing Mining Consultancy team. This role is a golden opportunity to have it all, a challenging and rewarding career as well as a balance lifestyle. The position will be based in our Head Office in Nedlands, Perth; voted one of the world’s most liveable cities, and will only involve a limited amount of travel.

The successful candidate will mentor and manage a global team of Mine Engineer Consultants, be responsible for quality control and meeting project milestones. It is a technically demanding position primarily involved in resource to reserve conversion for both open pit and underground mining projects.

Micromine is offering a good base salary to secure the most suitable applicant. Professional development will also be provided, both internal software training and external industry training, to ensure the continued growth of both the successful candidate and the team.

The successful candidate will be offered a competitive salary commensurate with their skills and experience, and will be working in a dedicated and highly professional software development team in an established and growing company. You will also gain exposure to significant internal and external training opportunities including tertiary studies.

For further information about the position, or to register your interest, please send your resume to the HR team at careers@micromine.com. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au MINING ENGINEERING OPPORTUNITIES Location – Perth Company – Micromine Description: Micromine is the global leader in providing innovative software solutions and consulting services to the exploration and mining industries. With a suite of award-winning versatile applications, we have solutions for all personnel involved in the mining cycle. We have grown significantly over the years and now boast office in more than twelve countries, with affiliates in almost every continent.

We are seeking a highly experienced Resource Estimation Consultant to be a part of the global Micromine team. Reporting to the Principal Consultant, Resources, and this role will play an integral part in the continued expansion of Micromine’s business. This position will be based in our Head Office in Nedlands, Perth; a suburb conveniently located close to the City and equipped with a large variety of services for the public.

The successful candidate will be offered a competitive salary commensurate with their skills and experience, and will be working in a dedicated and highly professional software development team in an established and growing company. You will also gain exposure to significant internal and external training opportunities including tertiary studies.

For further information about the position, or to register your interest, please send your resume to the HR team at careers@micromine.com. To apply for this role, please visit www.miningaustralia.com.au

www.miningaustralia.com.au

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Servicing the Mining Industry for 30 years All Products and Services exceed MDG41 requirements Mining dedicated Service and Supply Centres with pressure testing facilities Specialists in Open Cut and Underground applications for all soft and hard rock mining All Service and Supply Centres ISO9001:2008 accredited RTO Registered by VETAB Project Management for machine overhauls and hose refurbishment NATA certified hose testing facility Experience across all OEM mining equipment manufacturers National fleet of mining specific mobile service units

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EVENTS

Conferences, seminars & workshops Event submissions can be emailed to ozmining@reedbusiness.com.au North Queensland Mining, Processing & Energy Conference

Mining Law Conference 2011

9-10 May Townsville, Queensland Focusing on future challenges in the mining, processing and energy industries, NQ-MPEC provides industry professionals with the opportunity to learn from each other and share information.

• NQ-MPEC www.nq-mpec.com

18-19 May Brisbane, Queensland Come and hear from the Department of Mines and Energy on the streamlining of approvals and hear first hand how to deal with overlapping tenements and supply chain infrastructure issues.We have assembled the best legal, industry and government speakers to tackle these and other issues in the National Mining Law Conference 2011.

• LexisNexis 1800 772 772 registration@lexisnexis.com.au http://www.lexisnexis.com.au/

2nd Safe Alliance Conference 19-20 May Adelaide, South Australia The Safe Alliance conference is the definitive forum that focuses on ‘permit to work’ and assisting your organisation reduce risk and

increase efficiencies. The Safe Alliance conference will discuss current safety issues, best practice elements and review innovations in technology and products to address the safety needs of industry. The conference not only offers opportunities to learn about safety lockout, products, processes and procedures, but also provides an opportunity to network with fellow industry professionals.

• Safe Alliance Simon Kotz 02 8337 7959 conferece@mayohardware.com.au

Mine Rescue & Emergency Management 2011 31 May-1 June Brisbane, QLD This event will provide you with up to date strategies, procedures and models that can help you and your company become proactive in your emergency response procedures.

Not only will this event focus on proactive measures, but it will also

look at strategies that can be applied in those crucial and decisive moments where every second counts. Attend this event and invest in the safety of your businesses' most important asset – its staff.

• Mine Rescue www.minerescue.com.au

M&E WA 5-7 July Perth Convention Centre, WA M&E WA is a new mining industry exhibition and conference that focuses on the unique needs, challenges and opportunities facing WA’s mining industry. Based in Perth, M&E WA will create an exciting new mining marketplace where miners, and the companies who supply them, can come together to network, source products & services, and do business.

• Reed Exhibitions Luke Griffin 02 9422 2339 luke.griffin@reedexhibitions.com. au

www.miningandengineeringwa. com.au

AIMEX 6-9 September Homebush, Sydney Held once every four years and firmly established on the international mining industry calendar, AIMEX is the flagship event within the portfolio of established industrial trade fairs staged by Reed Exhibitions, Australia's leading exhibition organiser.AIMEX is where Australian and international suppliers of mining technology, equipment and services come together with mining industry buyers and specifiers from throughout the Asia-Pacific region to network and explore mutually beneficial business opportunities, and exchange technical information.

• Reed Exhibitions Peter Thompson 02 9422 2472 peter.thompson@reedexhibitions. com.au www.aimex.com.au

For power to keep your plant running reliably . . . at any location

Brevini Power gives you peace of mind with our PIV Drives, no matter where your plant is located.

Brevini Australia supplies PIV gear units in helical and bevel helical, as stand alone gear units or complete drive packages: ● To all demanding specifications ● Fully engineered and documented ● Medium to large powers ● Wide range of drive configurations.

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www.brevini.com.au www.miningaustralia.com.au

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If what you do depends on Lime, talk to us.

Mining operations depend on Lime. Which is why industry leaders get their Lime from Sibelco. Because while we might’ve changed our name from Unimin, we haven’t changed the quality of lime you’ve come to expect from us.

Whether it’s Quicklime, Hydrated Lime or one of many other limestone products you may require, Limil is a brand synonymous with quality. Choose Limil from one of the seven Sibelco plants around Australia and you can look forward to 135 years of Lime manufacturing expertise, the security of long-term supplies and a level of quality and consistency that our ISO9001:2008 Quality Program delivers.

To find out more about Limil, Sibelco and our industry-leading products, visit www.sibelco.com.au

UNM12187

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Advantage - Pit Viper

Your purchase is just the start The Pit Viper blasthole drills have earned a reputation for productivity and smart design. To enhance that, Atlas Copco offers training for drill rig operators on simulators — giving an extremely realistic experience in a controlled environment. Ergonomics have always been a part of the Pit Viper design, but this training keeps operators safe while enabling them to learn without wear and stress on rig components in the field.

Atlas Copco is much more than a rig sales company. We also offer complete service packages, and this training opportunity to keep the advantage on your productivity.

If you need more reasons to invest in a Pit Viper, find out more at www.atlascopco.com/blastholedrills or training@au.atlascopco.com

Atlas Copco Construction and Mining Australia Freecall: 1300 366 880 www.atlascopco.com.au